The Calm After The Storm

Chapter Four - Unraveling Threads of Kindness and Consequences

Daphne's morning had been spoiled in spectacular fashion; she had been reading the second book of the Lord of the Rings trilogy when Astoria dropped a copy of the Daily Prophet in front of her. The headline caused her eyes to widen in alarm. There was a full front page photo of Harry passing her his scarf with the pair looking directly at each other. However the title was worse.

Man-Who-Conquered has Conquered the Heart of Greengrass?

Rita Skeeter's Fiery Accusations: Is Harry Potter's Heart Now in Greengrass' Grasp?"

By Rita Skeeter

Get ready for another explosive revelation that's set to rock the very foundations of the wizarding world! Rita Skeeter, your trusted source for all things sensational and scandalous, is here with a story that promises to ignite controversy: Harry Potter, the "Man-Who-Conquered," may have ensnared one Daphne Greengrass in a web!

The so-called "love story" began innocently enough on a chilly autumn day when Harry Potter, a name that has become synonymous with trouble and chaos, extended a hand—or rather, a scarf—to Daphne Greengrass. But is this mere charity or the beginning of something much more sinister?

Witnesses tell of Harry's considerate offer, an act that seemed to warm Daphne's heart. However, it's not the warmth of the scarf but the heat of rumors that now surround the couple. Rita Skeeter, never one to shy away from controversy, asks the burning question: Could the uncontroversial Greengrass heiress be vulnerable to a romance that might lead her astray?

While the scene appeared innocent to the untrained eye, Rita suggests there could be more to it than meets the eye. Could the Greengrass heiress have her own scheme? Is this an attempt to manipulate Harry's reputation or simply a ploy to tarnish his heroic image?

The brief touch of their fingers as Daphne accepted the scarf was witnessed by many, leaving us all to wonder: Is this the dawning of a forbidden romance? Or is there a hidden agenda lurking in the shadows?

Harry and Daphne, remain suspiciously tight-lipped about their newfound closeness. Could they be conspiring behind closed doors, away from prying eyes, to orchestrate a scandal that could spell disaster for the "Boy Who Lived"?

Stay alert, dear readers, for Rita Skeeter will continue to peel away the layers of this mystery. Is this a love story for the ages, or is it a web of intrigue that threatens to unravel the wizarding world as we know it? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Rita Skeeter will be there to dig up the dirt and lay it bare for all to see!

"Daphne, are you alright?" Astoria asked gently, none of the usual teasing was in her tone on this occasion. In truth Daphne was livid that this hack of a writer used that scene out of context to generate a story!

She rose and paced in the library, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, she couldn't help but dwell on the lunch she had shared with Harry. The warmth of his scarf around her neck still clung to her skin, and the memory of their engaging conversation lingered in her mind like an enchanting melody.

Her heart, which had been touched by Harry's kindness, now ached at the thought of his name being dragged through the mud by Rita Skeeter's scandalous article. She knew she needed to act swiftly to protect not only his reputation but the budding connection she felt between them.

Astoria watched her sister with concern, recognising the turmoil that brewed beneath Daphne's composed exterior.

"Daphne," Astoria said gently, drawing her sister's attention. "You seem really upset about this article. Is there something you're not telling me?"

Daphne paused in her pacing, her face flushed with a mix of emotions. She hadn't intended to let Astoria in on the strange sensations she had during her lunch with Harry. She weighed her words carefully before replying, "It's not about me, Astoria. It's about the unfair scrutiny Harry is under. He doesn't deserve this kind of treatment.

"I can't believe they've gone and done this," Astoria whispered under her breath, her voice a mix of disbelief and concern.

Daphne glanced at her sister, her own expression a mirror of surprise. "Have Mother and Father seen this yet?" she inquired, her concern palpable.

Astoria shook her head. "Not here, at least. Father left early this morning, and Mother has been tending to the greenhouse. They haven't laid eyes on this... situation," she replied, her tone conveying a sense of assurance. "You needn't worry about them."

Daphne's shoulders eased as she exhaled in relief. "Good. I just needed to know if I should go downstairs now or if there's time to gather my thoughts."

Astoria's voice took on an innocent tone as she added, "You both do look... sweet," though she quickly averted her gaze from her older sister.

Daphne couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at her sister's comment. "Didn't take you long to drop the concerned sister act," she remarked, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. She settled back into her chair with a gentle grace.

Astoria chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, come on, Daphne. I'm just lightening the mood. So was lunch that good?"

Daphne's thoughts momentarily drifted back to her enchanting lunch with Harry, and a soft, wistful smile played at her lips. "It was," she admitted, her voice carrying a hint of warmth that she hadn't shared with anyone yet. She was aware of Astoria's inquisitive nature, especially when it came to matters of the heart.

Astoria, being the typical younger sister, couldn't resist the temptation to pry for more details. She leaned in slightly, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Pleasant company, you say? Come on, Daphne, don't leave me hanging! Tell me everything. Was he charming? Did he say anything special?"

Daphne chuckled, appreciating her sister's eagerness. "He was charming, and yes, he said some interesting things. We talked about books, and he has a deep appreciation for literature. He's much different from the public image, you know."

Astoria's eyes widened with intrigue. "Different how?"

Daphne paused, considering her words carefully. "He's more refined, articulated as I said the other day, and more thoughtful than I expected. He's not the reckless troublemaker the papers often portrayed him to be."

Astoria's grin widened. "And is he as handsome in person as he is in the papers?"

Daphne hesitated for a moment, her cheeks taking on a subtle rosy hue. "Well," she admitted with a small smile, "yes, he is handsome." She left it at that, she was not in the habit of fawning over people.

Astoria's grin grew even wider, and she couldn't resist a mischievous tease. "Oh, Daphne, you're blushing! I've never seen you blush over anyone before."

Daphne tried to hide her blush but knew her sister was too perceptive to be fooled. "It's nothing, Astoria. Just an observation."

Her younger sister leaned closer, a twinkle of amusement in her eyes. "An observation? Well, it seems like Mr. Harry Potter has made quite an impression on you."

Daphne gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, not quite ready to dive into the depths of her feelings just yet. "Let's not jump to conclusions, Astoria."

Astoria, always the playful provocateur, leaned back in her chair with a knowing smile. "Oh, I won't jump, sister. But I'll be watching with great interest."

Daphne's gaze remained fixed on the garden, her expression pensive. "You're right, Astoria. It's just that I genuinely hope Harry doesn't have to endure more unwarranted attention and scrutiny."

Astoria reached out and placed a reassuring hand on her sister's shoulder. "I understand your concern, Daphne. But remember, you can't control the press, and neither can Harry. What you can control is your response. By not giving them the satisfaction of a reaction, you'll help protect him."

Daphne turned to her sister, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and concern. "You're right, as always. I'll handle this with poise and grace, and hopefully, the storm will pass."

Astoria smiled warmly, offering her sister the support she needed. "That's the spirit, Daphne. And who knows, maybe your budding friendship with Harry will surprise everyone, in a good way."

"Oh and how so?"

"Well, you have to admit it does make for a romantic story, the dashing and brave Griffindor who yearned for the sweet hearted Slytherin, divided by house rivalries and dark lords alike" Astoria said with dramatic flair.

"Astoria!"

"Sorry, couldn't help it" replied her admittedly sheepish sister. Although Daphne allowed a smile to grace her lips and let out a laugh at her sister's antics. Astoria joined in when they were interrupted by a light tapping at the window which drew the attention of both sisters to the sight of a rather irate barn owl.

"Are you expecting a post?" Daphne asked as she opened the window and took the letter presented to her.

"No, and its bit early for howlers"

"Not heavy enough for a howler, but it is addressed to me"

My Dearest Daphne,

I hope this letter finds you in the best of spirits. I feel compelled to begin with an apology for my uncharacteristic behavior during our recent encounter. It troubles me greatly that I left you alone at that table, and I can't help but wonder if some bewitchment was at play, perhaps orchestrated by Potter himself. It's a concern I can't seem to shake.

Have you taken the time to inspect that scarf he gave you for any concealed charms or hexes? We must be vigilant, for such things are not beyond the realm of possibility.

Furthermore, I've made the firm decision to challenge Mr. Potter. My intention is to stand up for both your honor and my own pride, for I suspect that he exploited my momentary distraction to bewitch you and engineer that lunch.

On a lighter note, I'd like to extend an invitation. It's my greatest wish that you would honor me with your presence at this year's Ministry Yule Ball. You are, without a doubt, the most enchanting witch who will grace the event, and I would be immensely honored to have you as my companion for the evening.

Please know that these words come from a place of deep concern and affection. I care for you greatly, and my sole aim is to ensure your happiness and well-being.

If you would consider my request and attend the Yule Ball by my side, it would bring me immeasurable joy. I eagerly await your response.

With heartfelt warmth and sincerity,

Jeremy Orpington

Daphne read the letter with a mixture of astonishment and outrage. She couldn't believe the audacity of Jeremy's accusations. She didn't even speak a word as she handed the letter to Astoria to read. Did he think she was that stupid? That Harry would compel a random stranger in a restaurant and then - no, she was too angry to even try to figure out what that imbecile was trying to use as an excuse.

Astoria's eyes scanned the letter, her brows furrowing as she absorbed the content. As she finished reading, her expression transformed from curiosity to disbelief.

"Daphne," she began, her voice laced with incredulity, "Jeremy really thinks Harry bewitched you? This is absurd!" Astoria's tone held a hint of anger on Daphne's behalf. "And he suggests challenging Harry for a duel over this? It's preposterous! Is he even a component duelist?"

"I've no idea"

"Well, I'd wager he is no dark lord. I imagine Harry would likely wipe the floor with him"

Daphne nodded in agreement, her anger and frustration clear in her expression. "The man is trying to justify his actions and place blame elsewhere. However this is exactly what I didn't want happening, if Jeremy challenges Harry then this hag has even more she can write about"

Astoria gently placed the crumpled letter back in Daphne's hand and offered her sister a supportive look. "He's clearly letting his pride cloud his judgment. He will likely back down when you don't respond"

"Oh I am going to response"

"Oh thank Merlin, for a moment I thought you might have listened to me!" Astoria said cheerfully. Daphne had already summoned parchment and a quill and was seated, her elegant quill strokes already at work.

Jeremy,

I received your letter and I must say, your assumptions regarding the events that took place are quite perplexing. It is both disappointing and frustrating to find that you seem to believe that I, as a witch, would be so easily manipulated, enchanted, or bewitched by anyone.

My lunch together with Potter was a matter of personal choice and had nothing to do with any form of magical manipulation nor does it have anything to do with you. I am more than capable of making decisions for myself and interacting with others without any external influence.

As for your challenge, I would like to remind you that he is a fully trained auror who has slain a dark lord and defeated many death eaters. Should you persist with a duel you would likely not like the outcome.

While I will be attending the Ministry Yule Ball, I want to make it clear that I'll be doing so as an independent witch who does not require protection or validation from anyone. I will enjoy the evening on my own terms.

I hope that you can eventually reconsider your views and understand that being a witch does not equate to being weak or easily swayed.

Sincerely,

Daphne Greengrass

Daphne, feeling both relieved and exasperated after writing her response to Jeremy, sent the owl bearing the letter on its way. She leaned back in her chair, staring out of her window at the lush gardens beyond, her thoughts consumed by the recent turn of events.

She couldn't fathom how Jeremy, who had only been on one date with her, could be so presumptuous about her feelings and choices. She was a pure-blood witch, proud of her heritage and her capabilities, and the insinuation that she could be easily manipulated ignited an ire within her. She considered her next move, the thought of Harry occupied her mind. She wondered how he would react to the scandalous article by Rita Skeeter. Would he feel the need to distance himself from her in an attempt to shield her from the rumors and scrutiny that now surrounded their newfound friendship?

A hint of uncertainty welled up within her. She hadn't known Harry for long, but that strange connection she felt at lunch had been unlike any other. The warmth she'd felt in his company was undeniable.

Yet, the whirlwind of gossip and accusations in the wizarding world was no small matter. She wondered if she should send Harry a message, a word of reassurance or support, to let him know that she was willing sorry about the situation and that she would take his lead on it

After a moment's hesitation, Daphne reached for her writing supplies and began composing a letter to Harry, her quill scratching across the parchment. She would make it clear that she wasn't going to let rumors and controversy deter her from their budding friendship, and she hoped that he felt the same.

"Who are you writing to now?" Astoria asked, she had opted to start reading the Fellowship of the Ring whilst she had written to Jeremy.

"Harry" she replied as she pondered what to put in her letter. She did not notice the small smile that danced on her sisters lips.

Dear Harry,

I hope this owl post finds you well. I wanted to write to you in light of the recent article by Rita Skeeter. I can't begin to express my frustration and disappointment at the audacious rumors she has stirred up. It seems the wizarding world can't resist a good scandal.

I want you to know that I don't believe a word of what she's written. Our lunch meant a lot to me, and I genuinely enjoyed our time together. I hope this does not affect your desire to see me again.

I hope to look forward to the opportunity to see you again, whether it's for another meal, a friendly debate about books, or just to remind you that not all of us are swayed by sensationalist journalism.

Sincerely,

Daphne Greengrass

Daphne sighed as she began folding the letter, her wrist beginning to ache with the act of writing. The weight of the words she had penned weighed heavily on her mind. She knew that this letter was important. It was a message to Harry, and she needed to strike the right balance between concern and care, without making it seem like she was overstepping or becoming too emotionally involved.

"Would you like me to read over it?" Astoria offered, her voice soft and understanding.

Daphne hesitated for a moment, her eyes fixed on the neatly folded parchment in her hand. She couldn't help but feel a touch of self-doubt creeping in. "I sound like a desperate admirer," she confessed, her voice tinged with uncertainty, as if she was laying bare her innermost thoughts.

Astoria gently took the letter from Daphne's hand and began to read it with a keen eye. Her face remained a mask of passiveness, a trait often attributed to the Greengrass family. Daphne watched her sister's expression carefully, waiting for a verdict.

After a few moments, Astoria looked up, her gray eyes meeting Daphne's. There was a hint of a reassuring smile on her lips. "I see why you would think that," she began, her voice measured and thoughtful, "but you are just expressing concern for a new friendship. It's early days, and things like this can derail them. I think it's fine."

Daphne smiled at her younger sister, touched by Astoria's support. "Thank you, my dear little sister," she replied fondly, appreciating the bond they shared.

Astoria leaned in closer, her voice tinged with a hint of mischief. "You know Harry is likely beating himself up right now, however. He probably thinks you'll want nothing to do with him after that article."

Daphne raised an eyebrow inquisitively. "And how would you possibly know that?"

Astoria let out a soft laugh, her gray eyes twinkling with amusement. "I have my ways of gathering information. Let's just say I'm friends with Luna Lovegood. She isn't a gossip, but I may have suggested once that I had a crush on Potter and wanted to know what he was like. She sang like a songbird."

Daphne couldn't help but chuckle at her sister's resourcefulness. "It scares me how easily you get information. And does Draco know you feigned a crush for Harry Potter"

Astoria grinned and continued, "No and he never will. Apparently, he has what his close friends call a 'saving people thing,' and if he thinks he has failed, well, he takes it hard."

"He hasn't done anything wrong"

"We know that, but he invited you out and then this, so do yourself a favor and make sure you are both good. I am enjoying this book after all" she replied before returning to her reading. "This Gimli character is very passionate about this Moria place isn't he?"

…

Daphne dear, do you want us to speak to the Prophet?" Isabella asked kindly while they were enjoying their evening meal in the family dining room. Daphne had been surprised her parents wished to discuss the article initially, given that both Draco and Narcissa Malfoy were present that evening.

"I fear that would only cause them to double down, mother, given our family never applied pressure during the war to stop their reporting on Harry."

"You know why we didn't interfere during the war; the Dark Lord would've seen that as provocation," Isabella explained.

"I am not judging you, but others would," Daphne replied kindly. Her father intervened.

"Daphne is right, sweetheart. We would be fanning the flames of the rumors at best or look like political opportunists at worst," her father explained. Daphne looked at her parents with appreciation for their understanding.

Narcissa interjected, her tone surprisingly neutral as she delicately dabbed her lips with a napkin.

"If I may, I believe Mr. Potter will handle this quite well," she said. "I don't imagine this will be in the paper for long."

Daphne was caught by surprise that a Malfoy would offer any level of comment on a Potter that wasn't full of disdain. However, it was the Malfoy heir, Draco, who appeared the most shocked.

"Mother, this is Potter we're talking about," Draco started, turning to look at Daphne, who sat opposite her sister. "He's likely to fly off the handle and make a fool of himself and the Greengrass family in the process. I would recommend that you publicly distance yourself from Potter, to get ahead of this—"

"Draco, that's quite enough!" Narcissa cut across her son, her firm tone surprising everyone at the table. A fiery heat surged within Daphne as she absorbed Draco's words. It appeared that his humility still had a long way to go. How dare he think he had the right to advise her on whom she should spend time with? Her newfound friendship with Harry was something she valued, and she wouldn't let Draco, or anyone else, attempt to dictate her choices.

Thomas Greengrass listened carefully as Narcissa spoke, intrigued by her perspective on Harry Potter. Her words painted a picture of a man who had evolved significantly since the days of his youth.

Narcissa's claim piqued his interest, and he probed further, "What makes you think the way you do, Narcissa?"

"After the war, he approached me after Lucius' trial. I expected him to gloat and mock, yet he offered to restore my name to Black and rebuild my relationship with my remaining sister," Narcissa explained. "Wherever he was during the war, he changed. Truth be told, if I were Rita Skeeter, I might be afraid, and I'd recommend anyone with investments in the Prophet to consider withdrawing them."

Thomas found her response intriguing, even though it didn't directly address his question. It was clear that there was more to Harry Potter than met the eye, and Thomas was beginning to see the depth of his character.

Isabella's curiosity was also piqued, and she asked, "You say he offered you to take the name Black once again, yet you are still a Malfoy?"

Narcissa simply replied, "It's complicated."

Daphne observed the exchange with keen interest, her initial anger toward her future brother-in-law still simmering within her. She couldn't help but feel relieved that his mother, Narcissa, had swiftly corrected his comments. Judging by her sister Astoria's silence, it was clear that she, too, did not approve of Draco's words.

Isabella, the matriarch of the Greengrass family, then turned her attention to Thomas Greengrass, her husband, seeking his opinion. "What do you think? Should we consider withdrawing our investments?" she inquired.

Thomas considered the matter carefully before responding. "It might be seen as a reactionary move, but we could frame it as a principled stance. We could state that we no longer wish to fund journalism of this nature, especially after the harm it caused during the war."

Daphne, well-versed in the intricacies of her family's financial affairs, wisely refrained from mentioning the potential financial repercussions of such an action. While wealth was not an issue for the Greengrass family, she understood that pure-blood families were known for their tenacity when their honor was at stake, and provoking them often had consequences. The delicate balance between maintaining their reputation and making a stand was a challenge that required careful navigation.

The lively conversation was abruptly interrupted by the sudden crack of apparition as the Greengrass house-elf materialized in the dining room.

"Tipple, is something the matter?" Isabella inquired with her characteristic gentleness.

"No, mistress, but you have a visitor at the front door," replied the elf in her squeaky voice.

Thomas leaned forward, curious. "Who is our guest?"

"A Harry Potter, sir," Tipple responded.

Daphne felt her stomach twist into knots at the mention of his name. She carefully set her cutlery down, avoiding any clattering. Her younger sister, Astoria, playfully nudged her and smirked. Draco, who sat across from Astoria, seemed conflicted, while Narcissa's gaze shifted to her parents.

Thomas exchanged a meaningful look with his wife and then glanced back at their guests. "We shall receive him in the living room. Would you be so kind as to escort him there, Tipple?"

Isabella, rising from her seat, added, "He might not be here to see you, darling."

The house-elf, Tipple, provided a crucial clarification. "If I may, mistress, Mr. Potter said he would like to speak with the Greengrass family as a whole."

Daphne's mother nodded in understanding. "Very well."

"Very well" her mother spoke before turning to their guests. "Normally I would send a guest away if they were interrupting, but-"

"Worry not Isabella, this is important" Narcissa replied.

"Please, Tipple will escort you to the drawing room and we will continue our gathering after this situation is handled" Thomas spoke kindly.

Daphne's thoughts were far from the dining room as Narcissa and Draco rose from their seats to follow the house-elf. Her stomach was still twisted into knots, and she hadn't realised that Astoria had placed a reassuring hand on her arm.

Astoria leaned in, whispering softly, "Are you alright?"

Daphne tried to put on a brave front, offering a faint smile. "I'm fine. I just wasn't expecting him to show up here." In truth, a sense of dread gnawed at her. She was anxious about how her parents would react to Harry's presence and the mounting fear that he might be here to tell her he needed to distance himself.

Astoria gave her a gentle nudge. "Come on, Mother and Father will want us all to go in together."

The Greengrass family, led by Thomas and Isabella, entered the elegant living room. The room was lavishly decorated, with light wooden paneling and ornate gold accents. The large fireplace at the far end crackled with a warm, inviting fire, casting a soft, golden glow across the room. Plush, deep-blue velvet curtains framed the windows, and an exquisite crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling. The room exuded a sense of grandeur, befitting a pure-blood family's estate.

Standing patiently by the fireplace, looking every bit like a man of his status, was Harry Potter. He was impeccably dressed in what she had come to expect in a waistcoat and smart trousers that accentuated his lean figure. Harry held his Crimson Auror robes draped over one forearm, showing the mark of a man who had come with a purpose.

When Daphne laid her eyes upon him, her heart skipped a beat. Her initial anxiety had been replaced by a surge of relief at seeing him. It was clear that he understood the significance of meeting her parents and had taken great care with his appearance.

Harry offered a warm smile as he greeted the Greengrass family. Daphne, despite her earlier trepidation, realised that the initial warm feeling she had in his presence for him was growing stronger, and seeing him here, poised and respectful, only added to her admiration.

Harry took her hand and met her gaze, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Likewise, Daphne," he replied warmly, his emerald eyes reflecting a sense of sincerity and genuine interest. "I wanted to discuss the article and clarify a few things, if that's alright with you and your family."

Thomas Greengrass, Daphne's father, offered his hand to Harry. "Mr. Potter, I must say this is a surprise. I presume the fact your Auror robes are on your arm and not your shoulders means this isn't a legal visit?"

Harry shook Thomas's hand firmly. "No, this is not Auror business. I apologize for coming by unannounced, but I wanted to address the article with Daphne and, by extension, all of you as soon as possible."

Thomas chuckled, relieved. "Well, that is a relief. I'd rather not have to call my solicitor here at short notice."

Isabella Greengrass, Daphne's mother, stepped forward and extended her hand. Harry took it gracefully and, following tradition, brought it to his lips. "A pleasure, Mr. Potter. Welcome to our home, and may I extend our gratitude for defeating the Dark Lord."

Harry nodded respectfully. "Your thanks are not necessary. Your home is beautiful, Isabella, and I thank you for welcoming me despite my sudden arrival."

Thomas turned to Astoria and Daphne. "And allow me to introduce our daughters, one of whom you are more familiar with than the other."

Astoria spoke up, extending her hand as well. "You are here to see my dear sister, so I shall go first. Astoria Greengrass. How do you do?"

Harry shook her hand and smiled. "A pleasure to meet you, Astoria."

Daphne then stepped forward, her heart fluttering with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty, her eyes locked onto Harry's as she greeted him.

"Harry," she began, her voice steady but laced with curiosity, "it's good to see you again."

Daphne, though she tried to maintain her composure, couldn't help but feel her heart quicken as Harry brushed his lips against her hand. The small jolts of energy that surged through her when their skin initially touched now seemed like a symphony of sensations, electrifying her very being. Time seemed to slow down, and in that fleeting moment, her mind raced with a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.

She offered a small but genuine smile. "Likewise Daphne" he replied.

Her composure was steady, but the turbulence within her was undeniable. The touch of his lips on her hand had ignited something within her, a warmth that spread from her fingertips to the core of her being, and it left her both thrilled and conflicted.

"Now that introductions are concluded, shall we get to the matter at hand? Can I offer you a drink, Mr. Potter?" Thomas gestured for everyone to sit, displaying a welcoming demeanor.

Harry, standing at ease, acknowledged the invitation politely. "You're quite alright; I won't take up much of your time. I wanted to formally apologize for the Prophet using your family name, as well as Daphne's, to create a sordid story about Daphne and our lunch," he began, his words delivered with honesty and a sense of duty.

Daphne was quick to reassure him, her kindness evident as she offered a reassuring smile. "You have nothing to apologize for, Harry," she spoke warmly, understanding his intentions.

Thomas Greengrass chimed in, his words reflecting a level-headed perspective. "I am inclined to agree, Mr. Potter. There is no law preventing you from having lunch with another person, and we understand that."

Harry maintained his composure, addressing the issue with resolve. "Nevertheless, the article made implications against Daphne, suggesting a scheme on her part and calling my reputation into question. The Prophet has pushed the boundaries one too many times, and I felt it necessary to take a stand rather than remain idle."

Daphne's father raised a valid point. "Some might argue that it's wise to not dignify these rumors with a response."

Harry concurred with a thoughtful response. "Whether I choose silence or take more assertive action, public opinion will already have formed. My actions are based on principle. Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Prophet and demand a printed apology for both parties concerning libelous statements."

Isabella voiced her concerns, recognizing the reputation of the notorious reporter. "Rita Skeeter is a hack, Mr. Potter. I doubt she will print an apology or admit liability."

Harry presented an unexpected possibility. "I have leverage, and should that fail, I am prepared to demand an honor duel to defend the House of Black's reputation, as my godfather named me as its heir."

Astoria offered a more practical view, with a hint of skepticism. "Skeeter is foolish, but I doubt she's foolish enough to risk a noble house declaring a feud or demanding an honor duel."

Thomas probed further, seeking clarification. "Are you truly prepared to take these steps, Mr. Potter?"

Harry affirmed his commitment, his words laced with determination. "I would be, though I'm fully aware that my leverage is likely sufficient without resorting to a duel. I wanted to ensure that you were informed and not caught off guard by any ensuing developments."

"Well, you seem to have this in hand," Thomas spoke, rising to his feet, which Harry promptly mirrored. Thomas extended his hand once more, and Harry met it with a firm shake. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Potter. I hope you don't think me rude, but I must attend to our other guests. Nonetheless, I look forward to the possibility of our paths crossing again in the future."

Harry nodded appreciatively. "The pleasure was all mine."

Isabella joined in, expressing her own sentiments. "I echo my husband's statement. I hope we have the opportunity to meet again, Mr. Potter. I'll leave Daphne to show you out." She, Thomas, and Astoria gracefully exited the living room, the youngest Greengrass giving a friendly wave as she went, leaving Harry and Daphne alone to continue their conversation.

As the door closed behind her family, Daphne and Harry were left alone in the living room. They exchanged polite smiles, their earlier nerves seemingly fading away. Daphne cleared her throat, feeling a peculiar mixture of excitement and uncertainty.

"Thank you for coming, Harry," she began, her voice soft and sincere. "It meant a lot to me that you addressed that article and showed up here, not that you had to do such a thing." Her eyes met his, and for a fleeting moment, she thought she saw a hint of warmth in his emerald gaze. Or perhaps, she merely hoped for it.

Harry's own smile widened slightly, his eyes remaining locked with hers. "Daphne, you're welcome. It was important for me to clear the air with your family. And I meant what I said, "I don't want to cause you any distress or harm your reputation."

Daphne's heart skipped a beat, a rush of emotion coursing through her. She knew that something was growing within her, something she hadn't quite acknowledged yet. She hoped that Harry felt the same way, but she couldn't be sure.

Daphne escorted him to the hallway and the front door where they stood for a moment before she found the words to speak.

"Have a good night Harry" she said with sincerity.

"And you Daphne" he replied with a smile before stepping out into the chilly winter air.

Once the door was closed and Harry's footsteps receded down the garden path, Daphne was left in the entryway, her thoughts swirling like leaves caught in a gentle breeze. She pressed her hand to her heart, feeling its rapid, almost unfamiliar beat. With a quiet sigh, she leaned against the door and allowed herself a moment to process the evening's events. It was clear that something was changing between them, but as the realization settled in, Daphne couldn't help but wonder what the future might hold for her and Harry Potter.

…

End of Chapter

Wow I am loving the feedback! Thank you all. Ginny will be discussed for those who asked!