Harry Potter and Susan Bones sat at Bones manor reading their Hogwarts letter for their second year of Hogwarts. For a few minutes, they sat in silence as they all read their letters. Harry told him to catch the Hogwarts Express as usual from King's Cross station on September first. There was also a list of the new books he'd need for the coming year.

SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS WILL REQUIRE:

The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 2 by Miranda Goshawk

Break with a Banshee by Gilderoy Lockhart

Gadding with Ghouls by Gilderoy Lockhart

Holidays with Hags by Gilderoy Lockhart

Travels with Trolls by Gilderoy Lockhart

Voyages with Vampires by Gilderoy Lockhart

Wanderings with Werewolves by Gilderoy Lockhart

Year with the Yeti by Gilderoy Lockhart

Harry looked down at his Hogwarts acceptance letter, scowling as he read the list of books Susan had collected from their aunt Amelia. He glanced up, his bushy eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Susan, why are we forced to purchase these books, Books which Aunt Amelia labelled as fiction?"

"Mom said Gilderoy Lockhart is our teacher this year," she replied with a shrug.

Susan smiled slyly at Harry, her eyes glittering with mischief. "Well look at the bright side," she said, "at least you get to see your fiancée, in Diagon Alley later."

Harry scowled. "Shut up, Susan," he muttered under his breath.

Ignoring him, Susan continued, "You're the one who is in a betrothal contract with her so come on...do you think she is pretty? maybe Daphne will dress up all nice for you."

"Susan, you know as well as I do, that Daphne Greengrass and I signed that contract to hide our Soul Union," said Harry.

"I still don't know how you two go from not knowing each other, to signing a betrothal contract with each other, one with no divorce clause at that?" said Susan. "So, when we arrive at Diagon Alley I will just let the love birds roam."

Harry's face turned a shade of red that would have rivalled a Weasley's hair. "It's not like that and you know it," he said with exasperation. "Daphne and I found out about our Soul Union unexpectedly. It wasn't something either of us asked for."

Susan leaned closer, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "How did you even find out? You two were hardly ever in the same room."

Harry hesitated, looking away from Susan's probing gaze. "We did not know until this summer, but the bond began to form throughout our first year in Hogwarts. when I first arrived in camp Half-blood, we asked Chiron well Daphne asked Chiron and he was suspicious so we went to Lord Greengrass who confirmed our soul union"

"Any yes before you ask, that is the place my mother Artemis said I must go to for two months out of the Summer when she placed me with Aunt Amelia, I do remember her mother telling me you were here when she forced Aunt Amelia to swear an oath that this will not be a repeat of the Dursley's, it was also her to use the mist, just think of that as godly magic to make it seemed like my parents signed the contract."

"I remember that day. So, you never answered my question do you think Daphne' is pretty?"

Harry rolled his eyes, trying to suppress a smile. "Honestly, Susan, you're as relentless as Aunt Amelia when she's interrogating someone." He took a deep breath. "Yes, I think she's pretty. But that's not why we decided to sign a betrothal contract. Our bond is deeper than physical appearance."

Susan smirked. "There you go. Was that so hard? And for the record, I think the two of you look good together. Who would have thought? The Boy-Who-Lived and a Greengrass. Quite the power couple."

Harry groaned. "Please, don't start with that. I've had enough of people putting me on a pedestal. Daphne is my partner, and we're facing this unexpected turn of events together. Our Soul Union is something we're still trying to understand."

She tilted her head, looking thoughtful. "Still, it's amazing, isn't it? The whole idea of a Soul Union. That two souls are so deeply connected that they are bound together. I wonder how that feels."

"It's...indescribable," Harry admitted. "There's a sense of belonging, understanding, and a deep connection. It's comforting, knowing that there's someone out there who truly gets you. But it's also daunting because it's not something you can control."

Susan nodded, understanding flashing in her eyes. "That makes sense. But whatever happens, know that you have family here, and we'll support you. Both of you." she said before a playful smirk returned to her face "Just try to keep the kissing to a minimum in front of me."

Harry just groaned, "I will keep that in mind."

"Hey let me see your closet to see what you could wear to impress your fiancée," Susan teased, standing up and heading towards Harry's room.

Harry laughed, shaking his head. "She's not my fiancée in the traditional sense, and I'm pretty sure Daphne doesn't care about what I wear."

"That's where you're wrong," Susan called out from his room. "Every girl, soul bond or not, appreciates a well-dressed guy."

"You do realize we're talking about a girl who beat me up with a sword to teach me how to fight right? And the same girl who sent me to the infirmary because I was fighting with said sword terribly." Harry mused, scratching the back of his neck. "And if I remember correctly, she did so wearing battle armour. Not exactly the fashion-forward type."

Susan's laughter echoed from his room. "You'd be surprised. Maybe she has a softer side you've yet to discover."

Harry pondered the idea. The few times he'd interacted with Daphne at Hogwarts, she'd been aloof and reserved. But this summer, during their training sessions at Camp Half-Blood, he'd seen glimpses of a different side of her: a fiercely protective and caring young woman who had an air of grace about her, even when brandishing a weapon.

He recalled one particular evening after a gruelling training session. As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the training grounds, Daphne had approached him, concern evident in her eyes. "You're pushing yourself too hard, Potter," she'd admonished gently, offering him a flask of nectar to help with his healing. There was a tenderness in that moment, a softness that he hadn't expected.

Susan's voice interrupted his reverie. "I've found the perfect outfit! A set of dark green robes with silver trimmings, a white shirt underneath, and black dress shoes."

Harry raised an eyebrow, amused. "Planning on dressing me like a Christmas tree, are we?"

Susan rolled her eyes. "Trust me, this will look good on you. The green will complement your eyes, and the silver will add a touch of elegance. Besides, Daphne's house colours are green and silver, so it's a subtle nod to her."

"Susan you do realize that I have Silver eyes right? Daphne and I are both level one metamorphmagus?"

Susan paused, tapping a finger to her lips thoughtfully. "Yes, I'm aware of your unique eyes, Harry. But it's a well-known fact that complementary colours can enhance natural features. Just trust me on this one," she replied with a wink.

Harry sighed, realizing there was no arguing with Susan when she was in one of her 'fashion consultant' moods. "Alright, alright. But if I end up on the other end of her scythe, or her axe I am blaming you."

Susan laughed, holding up the selected clothes. "Relax, Harry. If anything, she'll be so dazzled by how good you look, she might just forget how to swing that scythe."

He chuckled, "We'll see about that. And if she does comment, I'll make sure to tell her you picked it out."

Susan gave him a playful shove. "Always blaming me. Well, get dressed, and let's head to Diagon Alley. Can't keep your fiancée waiting."

Harry gave a resigned sigh. "I'm never going to hear the end of this, am I?"

"Not in this lifetime," Susan quipped with a grin, "Besides you can't say you don't love each other as Lady Artemis did catch you two snogging each other on the balcony of Greengrass Manor,"

Harry's face turned an even deeper shade of red. "That was one time! And we were...caught in the moment. It was after we had signed the contract and..."

Susan wagged her finger teasingly. "Save it, lover boy. I've heard all the excuses. One moment it's 'we're just partners', the next you're locked in a passionate embrace on a balcony."

"It's not like that," Harry protested, though he couldn't hide the slight grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "And can we please not discuss my private moments with Daphne? Especially not when Aunt Amelia might overhear?"

"Overhear what?" said Amelia walking into the room. A sudden, tense silence fell over the room as Harry and Susan turned their attention to Amelia, who had entered with an amused expression.

"Nothing, Aunt Amelia," Harry said quickly, trying to keep his voice casual.

Susan shot him a mischievous look. "We were just discussing Harry's... fashion choices for our trip to Diagon Alley."

Amelia raised an eyebrow, her gaze flitting between the two. "Oh, is that so? And here I thought it might have something to do with a certain Greengrass."

Harry blushed even more, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "Well, Susan might have mentioned her once or twice."

"Or a dozen times," Susan added with a smirk.

Amelia chuckled. "Ah, young love. It's sweet, really. Just remember to stay grounded, Harry. Love is a powerful force, but it can also be complicated."

"I know, Aunt Amelia. Daphne and I are just trying to navigate our bond and understand what it means for us," Harry said, earnestness evident in his voice.

Amelia nodded, her expression softening. "I trust you both to make the right choices. And speaking of choices," she added, eyeing the outfit Susan had picked out, "I must say, Susan has quite the eye for fashion."

Susan beamed, "Thank you, mum. I figured he needed a little sprucing up."

Amelia laughed. "Well, he'll certainly make an impression. Just remember to have fun today and enjoy your time together."

"We will," Harry assured her.

Harry, Susan, and Amelia stepped out of the floo and into the Leaky Cauldron. In front of them stood Daphne, Lord Greengrass, a boy and girl who resembled Daphne in miniature form, and another girl about Daphne's age. Harry was stunned by his betrothed; she wore a dress that accentuated her curves and made his imagination run wild.

He walked over to Daphne and kissed her knuckles. "Hello Heiress-secondary Greengrass," he said.

"Scion Potter, you look nice today," she replied with a blush, "Allow me to introduce my younger brother, Scion Alex Greengrass; his twin Heiress-tertiary Astoria Greengrass; my best friend since I was five, Heiress Secondary Tracey Davis; and my father, Cygnus Greengrass, Duke of Powis."

"Everyone, it's a pleasure to meet my betrothed Scion Harry Potter, Marquess of Anglesey," she continued.

"Pleased to meet you," Harry responded as he gestured towards Susan and Amelia. "Allow me to introduce my cousin Heiress Presumptive Susan Bones; and my aunt Lady Amelia Bones nee Potter, Earl of Glamorgan and regent to the Marquess of Anglesey."

"Alright, Let's get going to get your supplies for your second year of Hogwarts. Alex and Astoria please no complaining you don't start Hogwarts for another three years" said Cygnus "Let's get the books last."

Harry heard Amelia whisper to him "You did good for someone still new to this,"

"Thanks, Aunt Amelia," replied Harry.

Harry then felt a hand pull on the side of his robe and turned to see Alex looking at him with big blue eyes. "Are you going to take my sister away from me? Please don't she read to me, and she plays with me and Tori. please don't take her away from us."

Harry bent down to Alex's level, his heart-tugging at the sincere concern in the younger boy's eyes. "Hey, Alex," Harry started, choosing his words carefully, "I promise you, I won't take your sister away from you. We might spend some time together, but she'll always be your sister, and she'll always love and care for you and Astoria."

Alex's eyes glistened with tears, but he nodded. "You promise?"

"I promise," Harry said solemnly. He then gave Alex a reassuring smile. "And who knows? Maybe we can all hang out together. Would you like that?"

The boy seemed to consider the idea for a moment, then a small smile appeared on his face. "Yeah, that would be nice."

Amelia watched the exchange, her gaze thoughtful. "Well done, Harry," she murmured to herself, impressed by his gentle approach.

Astoria approached Harry from the other direction, "are you really the boy who lived?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of wonder and curiosity.

Harry smiled gently at the younger girl, brushing a stray hair behind her ear. "Yes, I am. But most of the time, I'm just Harry," he replied.

Astoria tilted her head, studying him intently. "Did it hurt when You-Know-Who tried to hurt you?" Her voice was barely more than a whisper as if saying it too loudly might invoke the dark figure from Harry's past.

"It happened when I was a baby, so I don't really remember," Harry said honestly. "But I've got a scar from it," he added, pointing to his forehead.

Astoria's eyes widened in fascination. "Wow," she breathed. "You're brave."

Harry chuckled softly. "I've been told that a time or two." He then glanced around the room, taking note of Susan and Tracey chatting with Daphne, while Lord Greengrass discussed something with Amelia. "Your family is quite unique, you know. And it's nice to be a part of it."

Astoria beamed. "You're going to be my brother, right?"

"In a way," Harry said with a nod. "I'll do my best to be a good one."

She smiled radiantly. "I think you'll be a great one."

The group where soon joined by Ron who broke apart from his family when they each left to get their own things for school and to get Ginny's thing for her first year at Hogwarts. and Hermione who was strangely silent about the news that Harry's old Guardians were arrested at the beginning of summer for child neglect and abuse. When the news broke out, many in the wizarding world were in shock. The Dursleys had always portrayed themselves as the perfect, upstanding Muggle family. For many, it was a stark reminder that appearances can be deceptive, and dark secrets can be hidden behind the most unassuming doors.

Ron approached the group, his usual bright smile dimmed a touch. "Harry! Blimey, mate, you look different." He eyed Harry's attire, clearly noting the change in his style since the summer began. "I reckon you're going to give Lockhart a run for his Galleons in the fashion department."

Harry chuckled, "Ron, always the joker. How's your summer been?"

Ron shrugged, "It's been alright. Mum's been a bit more hectic than usual with Ginny starting Hogwarts this year. Can't believe my little sis is off to school." He glanced around, taking in the unfamiliar faces. "Sorry, am I interrupting?"

"No, not at all," Harry said, gesturing towards Daphne and her family. "Ron, meet the Greengrasses. This is my betrothed, Daphne."

Ron's eyes widened. "Betrothed? Blimey, Harry. You never mentioned anything about this!"

Harry sighed, "I Did, in the letter I sent you today, and it was in today's daily prophet. with the headlines:'12-year-old Harry Potter Guardians Arrested for Child Abuse; Gildroy Lockhart New Hogwarts DADA Professor; Albus Dumbledore Removed From Wizengamont for Violations of The Wizengamont Guardian Act; Panel Formed To Investigate How The Boy-Who-Lived Was Abused Heavily for 11 Years; Betrothal Contract Between Harry Potter and Daphne Greengrass signed in 1980, 12 years ago.'"

Ron's face turned a shade of crimson, clearly embarrassed. "I...uh, must've missed that part, mate. I was so shocked by the news about the Dursleys and Dumbledore, I guess I skimmed over the rest."

Hermione, who had remained unusually quiet up until then, finally spoke, her voice gentle. "It was overwhelming, Harry. So many revelations in a single day. And after all, Ron's not the most diligent reader." She gave Ron a teasing smirk.

Ron rolled his eyes at Hermione, "Thanks for that, Hermione. Always good to have you around to keep my ego in check." Despite the playful banter, there was a noticeable tension in the air, especially around Hermione.

Daphne, ever the diplomat, extended her hand, "Ron, Hermione, it's nice to meet you both. I've heard a lot about you from Harry. And don't worry, I was just as surprised about the betrothal as you were."

Hermione shook Daphne's hand. "Pleased to meet you, Daphne. It's not every day one learns their best friend is betrothed."

Amelia, sensing the need to change the topic and lighten the mood, chimed in, "Alright, everyone, before we delve deeper into personal matters, let's focus on the task at hand. School supplies. Diagon Alley awaits."

The group began to move out of the Leaky Cauldron, with Hermione pulling Harry aside momentarily. "Harry, can we talk? Privately?"

Harry nodded, concern evident in his gaze. "Of course, Hermione. Let's find a quiet corner."

The two friends made their way to a small alleyway, away from the hustle and bustle of Diagon Alley. The narrow space was surrounded by towering brick walls, creating a feeling of seclusion. The sounds from the main alley were muffled, making it an ideal spot for a private conversation.

Hermione took a deep breath, wringing her hands nervously. "Harry, I... I don't even know where to begin." Her eyes looked misty, and Harry could tell that she was trying to hold back tears. "I'm so sorry for everything. I had no idea about the Dursleys... If I had known, I would have done something."

Harry reached out and gently squeezed her hand. "Hey, it's okay. No one knew, Hermione. Not even Ron or Hagrid. The important thing is that I'm out of there now and in a better place."

She nodded, wiping away a tear. "And this betrothal... Are you okay with it? I mean, you're so young, and it's such a big decision."

Harry took a moment before answering. "Honestly, it was a surprise for me too. But after getting to know Daphne and her family, I think it's a good thing. They're genuinely nice people, and I think we'll make it work. Plus, it's not like we're getting married tomorrow."

Hermione managed a small smile. "That's true. And if you're happy, then I'm happy for you. Just promise me one thing."

"What's that?"

"That you'll always be honest with me. We're best friends, Harry. I want to be there for you, no matter what."

Harry nodded solemnly. "I promise, Hermione. And thank you. It means a lot to know that you're by my side."

She wrapped him in a tight hug, and the two friends stayed like that for a few moments, finding comfort in each other's embrace.

When they pulled apart, Harry smiled at her. "Now, what do you say we go get our supplies and have a bit of fun? After all, it's not every day you get to shop in Diagon Alley."

Hermione chuckled, her mood visibly lifted. "You're right. Let's do it."

An hour later, they headed for Flourish and Blotts. They were by no means the only ones making their way to the bookshop. As they approached it, they saw to their surprise a large crowd jostling outside the doors, trying to get in. The reason for this was proclaimed by a large banner stretched across the upper windows: GILDEROY LOCKHART will be signing copies of his autobiography MAGICAL ME today from 12:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, Tracey, Susan, and Daphne squeezed inside. A long line wound right to the back of the shop, where Gilderoy Lockhart was signing his books. They each grabbed a copy of The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 2 and sneaked up the line to where the rest of the Weasleys were standing with Mr. and Mrs. Granger. On the other side was Amelia Bones, and Cygnus Greengrass with the 8-year-old twins Astoria and Alex.

Mrs. Granger was staring in horrified fascination at a witch in the corner who was demonstrating how to use a crystal ball. Mr. Granger was deep in conversation with Arthur Weasley about Muggle matters, comparing notes on drills and electrical plugs. Ginny, who was rather shy around Harry, was hiding behind her mother's skirt.

As Gilderoy Lockhart entered the room, he was surrounded by large pictures of his face, all beaming and showing off pearly whites. He was wearing light-blue robes that matched his eyes and had a pointed wizard's hat settled on his wavy hair.

A grouchy-looking man waved his hands around while taking photographs with a massive black camera which let out puffs of lilac smoke with each flash. "Step aside," he snarled at Ron as he positioned himself to get better shots. "These photos are for the Daily Prophet —"

"Who cares?" Ron grumbled, rubbing the spot where the photographer had stepped on him.

Gilderoy Lockhart heard him. He shifted his gaze towards them and saw Harry. His eyes widened; he jumped up from his seat and shouted: "It can't be Harry Potter?" Everyone around them started murmuring excitedly as Lockhart pulled Harry to the front. The crowd erupted into cheers, making Harry's cheeks flush. Lockhart shook hands with him so that it could be captured by the photographer, who continued snapping away despite the smoke drifting over the Weasleys.

"Mr. Lockhart please do not touch me again," said Harry forcing his arm off of him. trying to control his temper and prevent himself from killing Lockhart for touching him.

When Lockhart went to grab Harry a second time Amelia decided to Intervene. "Mr. Lockhart, touch my nephew one more time and I will have you arrested for battery, and possibly harassment," Amelia Bones said sternly, her voice resonating through the store.

The crowd went silent. The murmurs that had been present seconds before had stopped entirely.

Lockhart, momentarily taken aback, laughed nervously. "My apologies, young man, I merely wanted to celebrate the presence of such a distinguished guest at my book signing."

Daphne moved closer to Harry, her hand reaching for his, providing silent support.

Amelia's stern gaze didn't waver. "Your intentions notwithstanding, you should understand boundaries, Mr. Lockhart."

Cygnus Greengrass sent a chill through the air with his icy stare as he directed it at the flustered professor. "Gilderoy," he said firmly, "Harry is not just another photo opportunity for you. As his future father-in-law, I would greatly appreciate it if you don't touch him again or you will be answering to the Wizengamont."

The professor took an apprehensive step back. Cygnus then clapped his hands together and said in a loud voice, "Ladies and gentlemen, what an extraordinary moment this is! The perfect moment for me to make a little announcement I've been sitting on for some time!"

He threw his arm over Harry's shoulder and pulled him close. "When young Harry here stepped into Flourish and Blotts today, he only wanted to buy my autobiography — which I shall be happy to present him now, free of charge —"

The crowd applauded before Lockhart continued, "He had no idea that he would shortly be getting so much more than my book, Magical Me. He and his schoolmates will be getting the real magical me. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have great pleasure and pride in announcing that this September, I will be taking up the post of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!"

The room erupted in cheers and Harry was handed several large stacks of books containing Gilderoy Lockhart's work. Straining slightly under all the weight, he managed to make his way out to the edge of the room where Ginny stood next to her new cauldron.

"You have these books," he mumbled while tipping them into her cauldron. "I'll buy my own copy."

"I bet you enjoyed that, Potter," said the voice he immediately recognized as Draco Malfoy. Standing in front of Harry was the same smirking figure dressed in his signature garb. "You can't even step into a store without your picture appearing on the news," said Malfoy with disdain. "Only you would be famous Harry Potter."

Malfoy continued, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "What's next? A feature in Witch Weekly? The Life and Times of the Boy-Who-Lived, A Heartthrob?"

Harry, not in the mood for a confrontation, replied calmly, "You seem awfully interested in my life, Malfoy. Maybe you should get one of your own."

The sharp retort made Ron snicker. Hermione gave him a quick, warning look, trying to prevent the situation from escalating.

"Careful, Potter," Malfoy hissed, his pale face reddening slightly. "Or are you too busy playing house with Greengrass to remember who you're dealing with?"

Daphne, ever poised, stepped forward, her voice calm and collected. "Draco, there's no need for pettiness. We're all here for school supplies, not drama."

Malfoy looked as though he'd been slapped. He stared at Daphne, surprise evident on his face. "My, my, Greengrass. Betrothed to Potter and suddenly you think you're royalty?"

Before anyone could react, Tracey intervened. "Leave it, Draco. This isn't worth your time or ours." She took Daphne's arm and steered her away.

Draco's silver-gray eyes met Harry's green ones. There was a cold, challenging glint in them. "This isn't over, Potter."

"Wasn't planning on it being," Harry replied evenly, refusing to back down.

"I really don't know how you put up with him for so long," Susan said to Daphne.

"It's complicated," Daphne replied, her voice quiet.

"What a surprise to see you in this store, Weasley. I guess your parents will be broke for the next few weeks due to all these purchases," Malfoy sneered. Ron was as red as Ginny and he tried to rush towards Malfoy before Harry and Hermione could stop him.

"Ron! Let's go out, it's too crowded here," said Mr. Weasley with Fred and George in tow.

"Well, well, Arthur Weasley is here!" It was Mr. Malfoy who stood near Draco with a smirk on his face.

"Lucius," Mr. Weasley responded in an icy tone.

"I heard that there were a lot of raids going on at the Ministry; I hope they are paying you overtime?" Mr. Malfoy took out an old and battered copy of A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration from among the glossy Lockhart books. "Obviously not," he added mockingly. "What is the point of being embarrassed by your work if there is no money in return?"

Arthur's face reddened, but he maintained his composure. "Lucius, there's more to life than gold. Maybe if you spent less time looking down on others and more time with your family, you'd realize that."

Lucius raised an eyebrow, his smirk was unwavering. "My family is none of your concern, Arthur. But while we're on the topic of families, how is Saint Potter fitting in with the Weasleys? Trading one unfortunate situation for another?"

"Baron Lucius Malfoy, you are trending in dangerous waters, not only is my nephew, Harry Potter is of higher ranking than you are being a Marquess, But I as Earl Amelia Bones and the Regent of House Potter am telling you to back off, or I will be declaring a Blood feud against you." began Amelia her voice dripping with venom "and you know as well as I do that my nephew is living with me."

"And I am of Higher ranking than anyone here being the Duke of Powis, Baron Malfoy," said Cygnus, "I will support Earl Bones in any action she takes against you in support of my future son-in-law."

Lucius Malfoy looked momentarily taken aback. His normally confident and condescending demeanour was overshadowed by the united front that Amelia and Cygnus presented. However, his face quickly twisted into a tight-lipped smile.

"Very well," Lucius said, glancing between the two. "I see no need to cause a scene here." His eyes narrowed as he looked at Harry. "But remember this, Potter. Titles and alliances can only protect you for so long."

"Is that a threat against my future son in law Baron Malfoy," said Cygnus "I think it was. If anything happens to him or if he even feels threatened, I'll hold you personally responsible."

Lucius sneered, "A mere precaution, Duke Greengrass. Just a reminder of the reality of our world."

Harry, who had been silent throughout the altercation, spoke up, his voice steady. "I don't need protection, especially not from the likes of you, Malfoy."

Lucius's gaze turned icy. "Brave words from a young boy. But remember, Potter, bravery without wisdom is mere recklessness."

"It's wisdom to know who your true friends and allies are," Harry retorted.

"Enough!" Narcissa Malfoy intervened, pulling her husband's arm. "Lucius, let's leave. We have other things to attend to." She gave a nod to the gathered group, her icy blonde hair shimmering in the dim light. "Apologies for any inconvenience."

As the Malfoys exited the store, a hushed silence descended on the gathered crowd. It was broken by Hermione's voice. "Are you okay, Harry?"

Harry nodded, "Yeah. Just another day in the life of Harry Potter."

Ron clapped Harry on the back. "That was brilliant, mate. Standing up to Malfoy like that."

Daphne approached Harry, taking his hand. "You never cease to amaze me."

Harry smiled, looking around at his gathered friends and family. "I've got good company."

Amelia cleared her throat, addressing the group. "Alright, everyone, let's finish our shopping and head home. We've had enough excitement for one day."

AN: Thank you for the support this story has received so far, This chapter was shorter than normal for this fic because I was working on an Outline for Act 2 of Potter Twins and the Force, and Chapter 1 of that act.

This chapter is the Last chapter in the Summer Phase of Act 1 next Chapter is the first chapter of the Hogwarts Phase of Act 1.

Read and Review, I look forward to reading and replying to every one of your reviews well I try to reply to every review I am not always successful.