A/N: Hey everyone! This chapter is extra long, as I put Harry and Daphne's convo in the next one for some reason. I've moved it here, so chapter 21 will be smaller unless I can shift something over from 22. I may just leave it as is, so as to not cause myself extra work. But the promised resolution is here!
I appreciate all the reviews, faves, and follows! And for my American readers, Happy Thanksgiving! I'm thankful for all of you, and this story has definitely brought unexpected enjoyment to my life. Rewriting the chapters I needed to is going relatively well, but the upload rate will be a bit slower moving forward until I build up a good lead again. I'm doing so to avoid a long upload drought if life starts life-ing extra hard.
Chapter 20
November 11, 1995
Harry returned Daphne into the care of a worried Professor Snape as they reached the Hogwarts gate. She sent him one last hopeful look before she stepped away, and Harry smiled at her, sending everything he was feeling into the look. She returned the smile, seeming to brighten visibly from the inside.
"Thank you for returning my student," Snape offered seriously, stepping between the pair and an overly observant Umbridge.
"Of course, sir," Harry replied with a nod, as Snape turned and led Daphne back to the school.
The Gryffindor students in the defending group stepped past the teen, shooting him a smile or slapping his back as they did so. McGonagall approached as they did, her eyes roving their bodies for injuries.
"Any casualties, Mr. Robards?" she asked after a moment.
"Not on our side, ma'am," the man responded with relief. "We were very lucky. Your students are a credit to your house, and I'd be happy to have them stand beside me any day."
The five students lit up at the praise, and followed their professor back to the castle.
"Mr. Potter," Umbridge said neutrally. "I trust we'll see you back in school tomorrow?"
"Yes, ma'am," he responded politely. "Were you in the Village?"
"It is the Headmistress' job to protect the school," Umbridge answered, waving the question away.
"A shame," Robards countered immediately. "We could've used you with us."
Umbridge blushed and quickly turned, waddling happily back to the castle.
"As a chew toy for the flying bastards," Gawain finished darkly, causing Harry to snort in laughter.
Before he could respond, Dumbledore appeared in a flash of flame.
"Harry, are you okay?" the man asked immediately, rushing towards him and taking in his appearance worriedly.
"Never better, sir."
"We'll leave you to it," Robards interrupted before heading for the edge of the wards, quickly followed by his two remaining aurors. The others had already returned to the Ministry with Amelia and the Weasley's.
The group of Ministry employees had promised Harry they'd not mention his fight with the attacker of their own accord, and he appreciated the gesture. He wasn't worried, however, about the information coming out. It wouldn't be the last time he was forced to kill.
With just Harry, Sirius, and Remus remaining, Dumbledore continued.
"I'm sorry I wasn't here, my boy," he said somberly. "I was called into a mandatory meeting with Cornelius and Lucius, and the room was warded from interruptions. I only heard a moment ago."
"That makes sense," Harry accepted darkly. "I think I'll go kill them now."
"What happened?" Albus asked with a raised hand, keeping the teen in place.
Sirius told the story from his side of things, and Harry realized the entire nightmare only lasted a few short minutes.
"And the dementors?" Dumbledore asked.
"Chased to hell and gone by Harry and Daphne," Remus offered immediately.
"Daphne?" Albus asked confusedly.
Harry felt Remus poke him in the back, urging him to respond. "Yes, sir. Some of my group have perfected the Patronus, and we helped Robards and his crew send them off."
"Understatement of the century, Albus. Harry was incredible."
"At the end, maybe," Harry complained, not happy with the situation. "I couldn't help at all at first."
Remus explained things from his perspective, including Harry's inability to cast the Patronus. He downplayed his own heroics, however, and Harry felt the need to interrupt.
"Moony, you picked up a grown man with your left arm while pushing the dementors' flank back with your right," he said firmly. "It was unbelievable, so don't you dare diminish what you did. We would have been overrun immediately without you. You saved our lives."
"Extended them, perhaps," Remus countered, smiling softly at the praise. "You saved us. So you get to explain."
"Harry?" Dumbledore gently prodded.
"Sir, I haven't been myself for a bit," Harry began hesitantly.
"You've been a wreck, kiddo."
"Thanks, Pads. Kick rocks, please." The man barked a laugh in response, but stayed where he stood.
"I told Daphne I couldn't pursue a relationship," Harry began again more honestly. "And it hit me pretty hard. If it weren't for the two idiots next to me, I'd have lost myself."
Dumbledore's eyes softened in sympathy, but he said nothing, gesturing for Harry to continue.
"I caught up with the aurors but couldn't cast my Patronus, no matter what I tried. A few of my training group eventually caught up, and Daphne was with them. She calmed me down, and I was able to get the spell to work. At the end, mine and Daphne's spells met, and it created some sort of magical blast, sending the dementors flying. I don't know where they went, but they didn't return."
"How fascinating," Dumbledore mused.
"He's forgetting the part where he pulled some sort of crazy judo move and turned a Death Eater to dust with his own wand," Remus added.
Sirius' eyes snapped to Harry's, not having heard this part of the story yet.
"You did WHAT!?"
—
The foursome broke up once the Chief Warlock had the full story, and Albus told Harry he had some thoughts about what transpired, but asked to view the memory before sharing them. Harry quickly produced it, placing the silver strand in a vial the older man conjured.
Remus left for the manor, and Sirius headed to St. Mungo's to look in on Charlie, promising Harry he'd thank the man for his part in the defense before he left. Harry and Albus apparated to the Ministry, preparing for another emergency session. Before heading towards the showers, Harry sent a messenger Patronus to Daniel, requesting a meeting before the session.
As he donned a fresh set of robes, not plum-colored, he settled his once-again racing heart. His nerves were running rampant at the coming conversation, but Daniel deserved to know what happened.
He was waiting for the teen in the lobby of their offices, and Harry led him into the Potter family office with an anxious smile. After the requisite privacy wards were cast, the man looked at him worriedly.
"What happened?"
"Daphne and Astoria are okay," Harry began seriously, watching the father relax a bit in his chair. "There was an attack on Hogsmeade. Daphne saved us."
Harry told the story as concisely as he could, leaving out the backstory of the past week. He knew he needed to be honest with the man, but wanted him to have the facts first.
"You killed him?" Daniel asked seriously when Harry was finished.
"I told you I would protect your girls," he confirmed.
Daniel stood, crossing to him in a quick stride, and lifted him into a hug. Harry was a bit stunned by the man's response, but returned the embrace firmly. Daniel retook his seat before speaking.
"I'll never be able to fully express my gratitude," he began. "If my girls were taken, I would have done anything they asked of me. I'd do whatever it takes to get them back, and it would've been a nightmare."
"I won't let that happen."
"I appreciate you telling me the story before I heard it in session, but you said Daphne saved you. From what it sounds like, you did most of the saving," Daniel offered confusedly.
"This is the awkward part," Harry answered with a grimace. "Daphne and I have had a rough week."
"How so?"
"I got suspended after the quidditch match on Saturday."
"Emily told me," Daniel responded easily. "From what Astoria wrote, it sounds like it was pretty unfair."
"It doesn't really matter," the teen shrugged. "I moved into the room we've been using to train, as Umbridge won't be able to find it, and that evening Daphne came by to make sure I was okay."
Harry's stomach clenched, not liking the tense look on his friend's face. He took a breath, refusing to lie to the man, and continued.
"We had a conversation, and feelings were kinda… revealed. But I told her I couldn't pursue anything since it would turn her into a target."
"I can guess how much she enjoyed hearing that."
"I broke her heart," Harry admitted reluctantly. "And mine in the process. This past week has been hell. For both of us."
"Harry," Daniel interrupted soothingly, before being cut off by a raised hand.
"Please. I'm sorry, but I just need to get it all out. This week was harder than I could have ever imagined. I could barely breathe at times. I couldn't think. I couldn't focus. I couldn't plan for the possible attack properly. It shattered me, and it almost led to an absolute disaster today.
"When I caught up with the aurors holding back the dementors, my Patronus didn't work, and I realize now that it was because of how utterly miserable I was. My magic couldn't find anything positive to pull from, as my life suddenly had no clear direction. But all of a sudden, your daughter was there. She smiled at me, trusting me completely to protect everyone.
"If she hadn't," Harry finished seriously. "I'd be an empty shell right now, as would countless innocent people. Daphne saved us, sir. She gave me strength, hope, and love when I needed it most, and I don't know how I'll ever repay her for that."
The silence that followed his statement was the most powerful Harry had ever felt. He stared at his desk, unwilling to meet the man's eyes.
"You return it, Harry," Daniel finally said, the words pulling the teen's face upwards.
"Daniel, I…"
"No,"the father interrupted. "I know what I said last time we spoke, and I remember what you promised. To me and to yourself. What I'm telling you now, is that sometimes promises need to be broken. I've yet to see the two of you really interact, but judging from what I've seen from your side of things, you need her."
"I can't," Harry managed to interrupt, his emotions threatening to overwhelm him. "They'd come after her…"
"They already did! They came for her today, and Astoria as well! So what good is it for the two of you to live in the hell you described, if she's already a target?"
Harry's mouth closed with an audible click.
"And from what you've told me," Daniel continued. "She's safer with you than anywhere else. You put your body in between her and danger twice today. I know, as her father, I'm supposed to be threatening you right now, or demanding you never speak to her, and a big part of me wants to do that. But the part of me that loves that girl more than life itself, wants the only other man in the world that clearly feels the same as close to her as possible."
"I… love isn't…"
Harry couldn't find further words, and the man sitting opposite was clearly enjoying it. Instead of stammering any longer, he took a deep breath, centering his thoughts.
"I don't love her. I've only known her for a few months."
"Emily finally told me a bit of what the letter said," Daniel countered. "The one Daphne wrote after your evening together. She didn't tell me much, but she did mention your theory on the Patronus, about how love makes the spell stronger than happiness. I practiced, Harry. I spent three nights trying different feelings and memories. My Patronus has always been strong, but when I thought of how much I love my family, and how that love is returned, it was like nothing I'd seen before.
"I don't mean to put words in your mouth, or pressure you into anything before you're ready, but what happened today means something. I suggest you find out what."
Harry didn't know how to react to the man's words. Ever since seeing Daphne in the Alley over the summer, she was never far from his thoughts, but romantic 'love' was something he didn't have any experience with. His first reaction was to brush the man off, but he knew Daniel didn't deserve that.
"Umbridge might target her," he said, suddenly realizing the potential issue.
"Maybe," Daniel admitted easily. "That's something you can speak to Daphne about. If my guess is correct, she won't care. And if it gets out of hand, I trust you to handle it."
"I'd be happy to," Harry agreed. "But I can't help but worry about what a relationship would mean for her if that's what we decide."
"You're now talking to the wrong Greengrass. I'm very appreciative of the fact that you came to me, and that you trust me enough to be honest about your feelings. But our conversation on the matter has run its course. You now have Daphne's father's approval, and your friend Daniel's happiness for you. Any other concerns will be figured out by you and my daughter."
"If we decide to try," Harry countered seriously. "I'll do everything in my power to make sure I don't hurt her again."
"Did you notice I didn't ask? I trust you, Harry. With my secrets, with our world, and most importantly, with my daughter. Emily and I will always be available if you need advice, but I have a feeling the two of you will figure it out."
"Thank you," he managed, his mind whirling dizzyingly.
He didn't know how to proceed from here, as the emotional upheaval he'd experienced over the last twelve hours felt overwhelming. Luckily, Daniel took pity on the teen, and steered the conversation back to business.
"We'll need to form a subcommittee to figure out the dementor problem."
Yeah," Harry agreed in relief. "Here's what I was thinking."
—
As soon as Harry was able to sneak back into the Room of Requirement, his body finally let him know it was done. He wobbled to the bed, his exhaustion getting the better of him. As he collapsed on it, he noticed a folded parchment on the pillow, his name written on the front in a slightly familiar scrawl. Before opening the note, he gathered what little energy he had, knowing he'd regret not visiting the loo.
The Wizengamot session had been a long one. Robards gave the official story of the attack, and the members spent three long hours debating the way forward. Albus hinted heavily at who was ultimately responsible, which caused the debates to grow heated. Eventually, they decided to create a subcommittee to investigate the dementors' behavior, and sent an official petition to the Minister's office to increase the DMLE's budget and numbers. Ultimately, it was Fudge's decision, but Harry hoped public opinion would sway him in the right direction.
Outside the Ministry a crowd had gathered once more, as parents and grandparents were rightfully furious that their children's lives were put in danger from a supposed Ministry ally. Arthur stayed after the session to help organize the protest, and Harry briefly joined the man as repayment for his heroics earlier in the day. Bill showed up as Harry prepared to leave, and the teen thanked the two older men profusely before he did so.
He then visited Charlie, who Bill told him was back at his home, wanting to personally ensure the man was recovering. He was already up and about, helping a few new residents get settled. The attack had convinced six new families to accept their offer of sanctuary, and the village on the Manor's property was finally beginning to take shape.
He stopped by the Manor itself afterwards, as Amelia, Sirius, Remus, and Albus decided to have a quick brainstorming session. It was his godfather who mentioned that Harry looked dead on his feet, and as soon as he heard the words, he felt it.
Returning to his bed, Harry grabbed the note and unfolded it.
Harry,
I just wanted to say how proud of you I am, and how grateful I am for you. I know we have things we need to figure out, but I needed to tell you how safe you make me feel. Even in the midst of all the chaos, I looked into your eyes and knew everything would be okay. I haven't been able to cast as much as a 'Lumos' on the first try this week, but you gave me the strength I needed for a Patronus. I don't think that's normal, and I'm worried something inside me is broken, but I'm not complaining.
I wanted to stop by to talk when you got back, but I had a bit of an issue with Draco at dinner. He was laughing about the attack, and making fun of students who still appeared shaken. I took care of the matter, but Umbridge didn't approve of my methods, so I have the first night of a week's worth of detention in a few minutes. I'm to meet the toad in her office, where I'll be grading papers. She seemed to think she was doing me a favor, but I'd rather clean bedpans with my bare hands.
With you moving back into the dorms tomorrow, it looks like we won't have a chance to talk for a bit, but I need to tell you one thing before we do.
Today I realized exactly how much you mean to me. Seeing you run down the street, towards the sound of the fighting, was somehow worse than everything else I've felt over the last week. The thought that I wouldn't be able to see you again, to talk to you, to tell you how I feel, and to yell at you for your stubbornness was unbearable.
But when I joined Ron's group (he was very sweet about it by the way), and we finally caught up, seeing you standing there was the happiest I've ever been. Facing a hundred dementors, I was happy. And just so you know, I saw exactly what I feel reflected in your eyes, so you're gonna need to spend the next week coming up with a much better excuse if you insist on being noble.
Yours, beyond a shadow of a doubt,
Daphne
Harry's eyes welled up a bit as he read the note, and he figured the only explanation was that his bed must be jinxed somehow. Harry placed the note underneath his pillow, asked the Room to turn off the lights, and fell asleep. Happily for the first time in what felt like forever.
—
November 12, 1995
Daphne was always an early riser, something she shared with her father, while her mum and Astoria always stumbled into the kitchen while she was finishing breakfast. She kept up the habit at school, and normally used the time to get some homework done in the common room. She didn't love the room, as she would have preferred some natural light, but she enjoyed the ability to spread her books out while she worked.
Today, however, she woke to find a letter on her nightstand. She snatched it excitedly, knowing who it was from, and rushed downstairs to read it.
Daph,
This is my sixth draft of this letter, the previous five lying crumpled on the floor around me. Words aren't coming easily this morning, but I want, more than anything, for you to have them from me. You deserve them.
So I'll tell you that I slept peacefully for the first time in a week last night. I got back around nine, when you were likely still enduring a detention that sounds like pure torture to me. I don't think I've ever been more tired, but reading your letter was a perfect ending to a difficult day, and I fell asleep directly after reading it. I thank you for that, if nothing else, but here are the 'elses'.
Thank you for understanding, and for allowing me to be an idiot. Thank you for somehow still caring for me afterwards. Thank you for being so unbelievably talented and powerful. And most importantly, thank you for saving my life.
I was lost without you yesterday. Before you showed up, I had already accepted that I wasn't making it out of the Village. And somehow, the thing that stuck out in my brain the loudest, was how much I hoped you'd gotten to safety.
And suddenly, there you were. And you smiled at me with such feeling that it filled my entire body. You believed in me. After everything I put you through, you still believed in me. That feeling is what brought my Patronus back. That emotion in your eyes. Your belief. You said I gave you the strength for yours, but you started it. I think we're both broken.
I'll never be able to repay what you did for me yesterday, not if a thousand bad guys pop out from around a thousand corners. What you did for me was something I'll never get over.
I don't want to have our 'talk' through letters, as I think you deserve an in person explanation. But the idea of not talking to you for another week makes me want to scream, so I figured I'd keep writing to you. If you don't feel like being penpals that's fine, but it's going to make the rest of this week rather one-sided, as I'm not going to stop.
I need to get moving, so I'll end this here, but I NEED to hear what you did to Malfoy. My imagination is running wild at the thought.
Harry
P.S.- I talked to your Dad yesterday and told him the full story. He's proud of you, but I think I might be prouder.
Daphne reread the letter three times, clutching it to her chest after the third. She laughed at herself after a moment, realizing she was acting like some swooning damsel in a fairy tale, and tucked the parchment away.
"Hey, Daphne," a voice called from behind.
"Blaise!" she said brightly, turning to her friend. "Good morning!"
Blaise took a small step back in surprise, a question written on his face.
"You seem happier than I expected after… everything."
"Things always seem a bit brighter in the morning," Daphne replied vaguely, not wanting to get into it.
"If you say so. How was your detention?"
"Horrid. That woman is vile. She spent almost three hours teaching me how a 'proper lady behaves' while I did her job for her. She drew diagrams and everything."
Blaise shuddered in response. "And yet you're still chipper."
"She's nothing," Daphne responded easily. "She'll be gone soon, and things will get back to normal."
"Right!" he replied with an exaggerated smile. "Any chance Tracey's awake?"
"No idea, why?"
"I think you may need to be tied down," he answered, his fake smile growing brighter. "And I'm pretty sure I'm gonna need help. Everything's okay, and it's just for a little bit."
"Blaise," Daphne said with a laugh. "I'm fine. I promise. My life is just figuring itself out a little."
"You talked to Harry?" he asked in realization, dropping his act immediately.
"Not really, but I will. Who told you?"
"Was it supposed to be a secret?" the teen asked confusedly. "It wasn't difficult to figure out. You were miserable, and when I went to train last week, he was miserable. Two and two and all that."
"I wasn't miserable," Daphne argued, lying to herself.
"Right. TRACEYYYY!"
Daphne laughed at her confused friend, glad to feel humor for the first time in a while. Blaise's call for help was surprisingly answered, as her other best friend shouted back from the stairs.
"WHAT!?"
"Daphne needs to be committed," Blaise replied casually, pointing at her when Tracey rounded the corner.
Daphne grinned at the girl and Tracey quickly returned it, realization in her eyes.
"He wrote back?"
"He did," she confirmed, beaming. "And he said he's going to keep writing to me this week whether I respond or not."
"Well isn't that just adorable," the girl mocked, though she was clearly happy.
"Shut it, you. I need to go get ready, I bet he's early to breakfast."
Daphne rushed back to her dormitory, missing the amused look her friends shared behind her.
Her guess that Harry would be early was wrong, as the great hall was suspiciously Potterless. Daphne bit down on her disappointment, and composed the cold expression she used in public. It was still effective, though her inability to stop smiling at the Gryffindor had weakened her reputation this year.
She sat in her usual seat and grabbed her usual foods, realizing Malfoy must still be in the hospital wing. Daphne smirked at the thought, knowing the git deserved what he got and more, though he was having a particularly painful school year thus far.
She did her best to speak normally with those around her, but speaking normally was actually abnormal after a week of near silence. Astoria picked up on it immediately when she joined them, a relieved look in her eyes, and Daphne couldn't hide the smile when her sister hugged her from the side.
Towards the end of the breakfast hour the doors opened, and the reason for her happiness entered. With everyone else distracted, she was the first to notice, and she couldn't hide the pleased blush when his eyes sought hers. He sent her a lopsided grin, and her insides turned to jelly.
As she returned the smile, his presence was noticed, the Gryffindor table erupting into applause. The Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs followed, though the Slytherin table was more reluctant. Daphne immediately stood to join in, as did her friends around her. She fought a laugh as she watched the boy flush at the praise, giving a small wave in recognition.
She watched as he approached his normal spot in the room, hugging Hermione before he could sit.
"Hem Hem."
The students, as one, turned to look at the Headmistress, with more than a few people groaning in frustration as they returned to their seats.
"I'm sure Mr. Potter appreciates your enthusiasm, and we're all very thankful for whatever small part he played in yesterday's events."
Daphne's eyes shot to Harry to see how he responded to the gibe, but found him looking at her instead. He rolled his eyes with a grin, clearly unbothered by the woman.
"Yesterday seems to have been a misunderstanding with the dementors, and Minister Fudge has assured me that you remain as safe as ever. He has a team looking into the incident, but the Ministry's standing theory is that the creatures were there for a benign reason, not to endanger any lives. The Ministry will get to the bottom of the unfortunate situation, and I ask you all to avoid discussing the matter until the truth comes out. That request has been added to the list in the entrance hall for any who would like further details."
The disgusting woman retook her seat, the students' happy mood quickly quashed. Blaise turned towards the girls with a smirk, unflappable in his humor as always.
"The twins have a pool going for how long Potter lasts. Over/under four days."
"If Umbridge says shit like that every morning, I'm taking the under," Tracey replied seriously.
"It'll be over," Daphne said with certainty.
She knew the boy wouldn't give up his only chance to see her. Once he was expelled, he'd be back in the room and she'd be able to visit. But with her detentions running so late, class was all the time she would have with him until Saturday.
Daphne was spared the need to explain, as the doors to the great hall opened once more. The now quiet room was quicker to respond, and most watched as Draco strutted cockily back into their midst. He preened at the silent attention, and she seriously hoped someone would burst that bubble by telling him what Harry's reception had been.
Malfoy sat in his usual place, a few seats down and across the table from Daphne. Before she could look away, the obnoxious boy met her eye.
"Don't worry, Greengrass," he said with a wink. "They're back in perfect working order."
Daphne felt bile rising, and stood rather than responding. He was a pathetic, immature, petulant child, and she wouldn't risk a suspension to set him straight. Tracey and Blaise followed as she left, Astoria still finishing her breakfast.
She felt Harry's gaze on her as she walked, and turned to see him one last time. The sight of his smile helped settle her stomach, the disgusting comment quickly forgotten.
—
Harry,
I humbly accept your gratitude, and shall expect many sweets in recompense, as you once did.
I think our perspectives of yesterday are very different. Yes, I smiled at you, and yes, my entire heart was open, but you were far from lost. I watched you outfly a dragon last year. A bloody dragon. You would've figured something out. Also, it's only because of you that any of us can cast the Patronus, so if nothing else, you deserve the credit for that.
I'm writing this right after breakfast, and I plan on making fun of you for how you blushed at the applause. I was impressed when you didn't respond to the bitch's statement, though I was kinda hoping for some fireworks.
I'm just sorry your entrance was ruined by Draco's, who hasn't seemed to learn his lesson, by the way. As to your question of what I did to the infant, it's a secret. Just know that if you ever do something deserving, you'll be missing certain parts of your anatomy until a healer can find them. My favorite flowers are dahlias for future reference…
I've decided to reply to your letters, if I can find the time in my already hectic social life. Juggling three entire friends can be a bit tiring, especially when all three rarely have problems I need to help them with.
But really, seeing you walk into the great hall was one of the highlights of my year, and I'm glad you're back. I think you're right to save our 'talk' for a later date, as I've been developing a plan for if you still have your head in your ass.
I missed you, Harry.
Undeniably yours,
Daphne
P.S.- The thought of my Dad being proud of me makes me smile. The thought of you being proud of me makes me want to sing.
"I'm in trouble, mate," Harry said seriously after finishing the letter.
Daphne had discreetly dropped the parchment in his lap as she walked into Defense just before the bell. It took everything in him to not read it then and there, but he had promised himself to be on his best behavior until she was done with her detentions.
"How so?" Ron asked from his normal seat in the common room.
"My person is threatening my boys."
"Your what is what?" asked the confused redhead.
"Nevermind," Harry laughed.
Ron noticed the parchment he was refolding, and his eyes widened in recognition.
"I take it you aren't reading over your essay for Umbridge?"
"Why on Earth would I do that?"
"And I'm also guessing that you've taken the advice of the Doctor of Love?"
"Not yet," Harry answered, laughing again.
"But you will?"
"I don't think I can afford not to," Harry said, gesturing to the letter.
"You deserve it," Ron countered with a happy smile. "I noticed you looking for her this morning."
"Yeah, yeah. You've been right twice, you git. Don't let it go to your head."
"Too late. I'm the wisest among us. First years!" he called, standing on his chair. "Come to me with your tribulations. I shall bestow my wisdom upon you!"
"I'm gonna bestow my foot if you don't sit down and shut up," Fred responded immediately from across the room.
"Nah," George argued. "Let him talk. Every time he does adds an extra kick."
Ron quickly sat, muttering grumpily to himself.
"How's the Doctor doing today?" Hermione asked brightly, clearly catching the last bit of the exchange as she entered the room.
"His patients are annoying," Ron answered with a scowl.
—
November 13, 1995
Daph,
If it was anyone else, I'd say your methods of punishment are cruel and unusual. Since it's Draco, I say they aren't permanent enough.
The dragon was easy compared to this past week, and I mean that. I'm thinking about adopting a few, just for a laugh, for if I ever feel that way again. And the fact that you felt it too just adds to the regret. I'd say I'm sorry, but it's not enough.
I can't begin to tell you how difficult it was to walk through the doors yesterday morning and turn left instead of right. I wanted nothing more than to touch you, just to verify that you're real, and here. You're so annoyingly close in that room, and somehow too far away. I'm pretty sick of the distance.
I think letting you walk away with Snape after the Dementors may have been one of the hardest things I've ever done... And I just realized that's one of those sentences that's never been written before. Weird.
I hope you have a great day, and Saturday feels far too far. Though I'm a bit worried about whatever you're planning for me.
Harry
P.S.- Then you should be singing nonstop.
—
November 14, 1995
Harry,
I promise not to alter your anatomy unless my father agrees it's necessary, how's that? Draco always deserves it. You'll never understand what it's been like living in this joke of a house for 4+ years.
Is it weird that I felt a little better when Tracey told me how miserable you were last week? Not because I wanted you miserable, I'd never want that for you. But it just meant that what I was feeling wasn't imagined. That it was real, and it was worth my tears.
Walking away after Hogsmeade was TOUGH. But it didn't hold a candle to what walking away from you the week before felt like. I wanted to turn around so badly. To shake you until you saw things my way. But Mum's advice was ringing in my head, and my stupid pride was too strong.
You should have turned right that morning! And every morning. Come sit with meeee! I promise to turn anyone who questions it into a worm.
Yours without a thought,
Daphne
P.S.- You DON'T want that.
—
November 15, 1995
Daph,
I think you'll find your father difficult to convince, though I'm sure I'll do something dumb enough eventually. Remind me to tell you what he said the other day.
I can't imagine living in the dungeons for years, or being around the idiots in your house. I spent an hour in your common room in second year, and I hated it. For some reason I just can't associate you with Slytherin. I know of your reputation, and I've seen the famous glare, but to me you're like a sunny day. Something to look forward to.
Hey! Maybe you're an anti-dementor. A joyful-tor. We can workshop the name for your kind.
You walking away from me the past two Saturdays is stuck in my brain forever, but on opposite sides. After Hogsmeade, I wanted nothing more than to chase you down and hug you. To thank you for everything you did for me and to sing your praises to the world.
The previous Saturday, I just wanted to curl into a ball for two days. And that's exactly what I did.
OH! I've been meaning to apologize for Dobby by the way. He's rather enthusiastic.
How are the detentions going?
Harry
P.S.- If it's anything like your laugh, your singing will quickly sit atop my list of favorite sounds.
—
November 16, 1995
Harry,
My father will answer as I ask him to, or he'll suffer your fate. He wrote to me about you today, and I don't know how I feel about the two of you being friends.
WHY WERE YOU IN MY COMMON ROOM AT TWELVE YEARS OLD!?
Sorry for shouting, but you deserved it, and I need to hear that story. That year was so dumb. People thinking you were some blood-purity psychopath… honestly.
I am not a magical creature of any sort, thank you very much, but I'm glad I make you feel that way. I can get thirty people that would disagree in the next fifteen seconds if you'd like. It's not easy being a Slytherin, but you get used to it. And the network outside of Hogwarts is ridiculous. A lot of non-Slytherin families even try to coach their kids on how to get into the house so they can use the connections.
I'd say I'm sorry for making you curl into a ball, but that's on you Harold, if that is your real name. I am sorry you were as miserable as I was, though. I slept in Tracey's bed until Wednesday, I think. A rough week to say the least.
Dobby was really cute, actually. He told me that someone so important to you needs to take care of themselves, as being around you requires strength. I agree with him 1000%, and he brought pie. He's okay in my book.
The detentions are lovely. Umbridge has decided to use the time to tutor me on how to be a proper pureblood lady. Tonight was her explaining the benefits of an arranged marriage. Twas delightful…
One more detention to go!
Yours, until you tell me otherwise,
Daphne
P.S.- You still need to explain what it is about my laugh.
—
November 17, 1995
Daph,
Second year was interesting to say the least, and I'll tell you the whole story some day. I wish I had known you at the time... It would've been nice to have another person that didn't believe I was a twelve year old mass murderer.
This is going to be the only time you hear me talk about my family's status, I promise, but I'm incredibly glad I don't need to deal with social networking bullshit once I graduate. No connections, no alliances. I won't do it. I'm gonna take a leaf out of your dad's book and just be a dick to everyone.
Umbridge is such a joke. Is it weird that I never even questioned whether or not you had an arrangement? And… do you have an arrangement? Is there someone out there expecting your hand? Because I'm happy to have a quiet word if you'd like.
I'm just Harry, unfortunately. But you can call me Harold if you want, since I use your nickname. Though Harold is actually longer, so it would be a nicholasname, I guess.
I have faith you can survive one more night of torture. You can do it! I'm excited/ incredibly nervous for our 'talk'.
Good luck tonight!
Harry
P.S.- I'll explain, but you won't believe me…
—
November 18, 1995
Dear Harry,
No, I'm not promised to anyone, you idiot. You know my father better than that, though I appreciate the offer.
Let me know if you still want to meet tonight. My nerves are all over the place, too. If you want to wait, I'll understand.
Daphne
—
Daph,
You willingly walked up to a hundred dementors and smiled. You have nerves of steel.
The Room, 7 pm. Don't be late or I'll… wait patiently until you get there.
Daphne-less,
Harry
—
Harry,
I'll be there you punk. I'd say you're more intimidating than a horde of dementors, but it would go straight to your head, so I won't.
Still yours, you doofus,
Daphne
Harry read the note with a grin, his heart fluttering like crazy. Butterflies wasn't a strong enough word. He looked up from the table, directing his stupid grin to the author. Daphne caught his eye, and rolled hers.
"Harry, let's go for a fly after dinner," Ron suggested from across the table.
He hesitated, but knew his friend might be dealing with something himself and didn't want to brush him off.
"Sure, but let's go now."
"Wait," Neville interrupted from his left. "I was hoping you'd help me with a problem I've been having. It's… personal."
"Sure, Nev," Harry answered, his heart dropping further. "We can do that later. I have a… thing…."
"Harry, mate," Fred added from a few seats down. "We need to talk to you about our grand exit. After Ron and before Neville?"
"Er… yeah, guys," Harry said glumly. "We'll find the time, though I can't promise…"
"You idiots knock it off," Ginny spat from his right. "You know good and damn well what day it is."
The three boys broke out into hysterical laughter, and Harry realized he'd been had.
"You assholes," Harry finally managed, the pressure in his chest dissipating. "Am I that transparent?"
"Harry," George answered with a grin. "The entire house is fully aware of what today is, and we're all incredibly excited that you'll finally stop re-reading those letters of yours. You prat."
"It's not my fault," Harry defended happily, finally seeing the humor of the situation. "Have you seen her?"
That shut the boys up, each nodding thoughtfully. Harry laughed as Angelina slapped Fred and George on the back of the head, a move Hermione copied with Ron. Ginny figured Neville shouldn't be left out, and reached around Harry to deliver the swat.
"Go get ready, mate," Neville said with a grin. "Don't mess this up."
"I don't plan to," Harry answered, thankful for his friends.
He rushed towards the doors, but stopped before he reached them. He shot a glance at Daphne and saw she was watching him, a nervous smile on her face. He fought a blush, turned, and headed to his dorm, wanting to shower before setting up the Room.
—
Harry was at a loss on how to configure the Room, finally settling on the setup from the week he'd lived there. He asked for a fire in the fireplace, and immediately regretted it, as it might send the wrong message. But it was November in Scotland, so definitely a fire, and maybe get rid of the training equipment.
His eyes found the bed he had slept in to his right and shot open wide. With a frenzied thought, he forced it to disappear. He eventually decided on the den of the Manor, and the room shifted around him. Just as it settled, he felt her presence open the door.
"Daph."
The girl held up a finger in response, asking for his silence. Harry gave it while sitting in a chair, and watched as she walked across the room, sitting gracefully on the couch opposite.
"Harry," she began seriously. "I have a feeling I know how this conversation is gonna go, but I want a chance to say what I need to, and you get a chance to listen."
When he made it clear he wouldn't interrupt, Daphne continued.
"When we ran into you in the Alley over the summer, it's like I forgot how to breathe. I had to focus on it. Literally reminding myself to inhale every few seconds. It was… confusing for me. It was something out of a storybook, and something little girls believe, but teenage girls quickly find to be unrealistic.
"But for me it's not. Because here we are months later, and you've saved me from monsters and evil men. You've whisked me away to a mystical room, and taught me unbelievable magic. You've written me love letters, and you've been able to lift my spirits with a single look. My breath still catches in my throat when you look at me, and the few times you've grabbed my hand made me feel like I could float away in happiness.
"But you've also completely shattered my heart, and the feeling of losing you was more painful than I could bear." Harry's stomach plummeted, and he knew he'd always regret hurting her.
"Daph, I…"
"No," she said, stopping him from interrupting. "I'm not angry at you, or confused by it. You wanted to keep me safe. I can't fault you for that, I'm just telling you how it's felt for me. And that even though I've found something fantastical, something out of a children's story, I refuse to be treated like a princess in a tower.
"I understand why you said what you did two weeks ago. I really do. And if it were Tracey, or Astoria, I'd thank you for being careful. But it's me, and what I feel is too strong. It's bigger than those worries. It's bigger than the possible danger. What I feel… my strength, if I have any… is because of you. So I'm going to cut this evening short."
Harry winced at the statement, hoping he'd have a chance to speak soon.
"I want you to think, for as long as it takes. Think about what's important to you. I won't be wondered about by the person I'm falling for. I won't be tugged back and forth by someone because they can't decide if I can help, or if I should be covered in padding. I want to make whoever I'm with feel as strong, and as capable, as you make me feel.
"And if that's not you… if you can't get past me being a target… then I don't want this. I refuse to be kept in a box, because I know what I can offer."
Harry watched as Daphne took a deep breath, trying to calm the strong emotions she was obviously feeling. He respected her for what she was saying, but hated that she felt the need to say it. He watched her wipe a tear away from her cheek, and his heart felt like it burst at the sight before she continued.
"So I need you to think, and to be absolutely sure about what you want. What I want is you, but that doesn't matter if you're uncertain. I've felt this need to find you in every room I've entered for the past three months, and I've seen you trying to find me, too. I know how you feel, but I need you to know it.
"So I'm going to leave again, but I don't want this to be me walking away for the third time. I just need you to be certain before we make any decisions. I can't go through what we did two weeks ago again."
Harry shook his head to clear it, as Daphne stood and turned towards the door. He jumped to his feet, ignoring the fact that Ron was right again for a moment.
"Daphne, wait."
"No, Harry," she said, without turning around. "I need you to think."
He rushed over to the girl, grabbing her hand gently.
"I just did, Daph. I'm done thinking and I'm not good at it in the first place. I know what I want, and she's standing in front of me. Now would you please have a seat so I can talk. Women, I swear."
Daphne swatted his shoulder, before wiping a new tear from her cheek. Harry grabbed her other hand, leading her back to the couch. He sat next to her, interlacing their fingers.
"What I'm about to say is going to sound crazy. Like, call St. Mungo's crazy. But I need you to believe me, just for tonight. I'll prove it later, okay?"
"Okay…"
"I died the night of the third task," Harry said simply, wanting to be completely honest with the girl.
"Harry, what…"
"Please," he interrupted gently. "I'm sorry, and I promise to answer any questions you have afterwards, okay?" Daphne squeezed his hands tightly in agreement, her eyes wide with confusion.
"Voldemort hit me with a Killing Curse, and I really did die. And somehow, I got to spend time with my family before coming back. It was unbelievable in a way I can't explain. I got to hug my Mum, and fly with my Dad, and I spent months learning from some incredibly talented people. Those lessons were amazing, and they've helped me prepare for what's coming, but they aren't what's been sticking out in my mind recently.
"I was out with Dad one day, and I asked him what school was like for him. He told me a lot of things, but he said Hogwarts would always feel like my Mum to him. He fell in love with her the first time he ever saw her, and worked for six years to win her over. When I asked him why he fought so hard, his answer stuck with me.
"He said, 'Because life without Lily felt too scary. It felt wrong. It felt like if I didn't have her in my life, I wouldn't be doing what I was meant for'."
Harry absent-mindedly wiped a tear from Daphne's cheek, and quickly conjured a handkerchief that she accepted with a smile.
"The second thing that sticks out was something Mum said to me when I first got there. She explained that I'd have a chance to return, and that she wanted me to. She wanted me to live the life I was meant to, and she wanted to watch me become the man I was born to be.
"At the time, I figured that life, and that man, meant me killing Voldemort for good, and maybe helping push our world in the right direction. But after the last two weeks I'm not so sure. I'm starting to think Voldemort is just a bump in the road.
"Because for me, life sounds terrifying without you. It feels wrong, and I can't imagine curling up into a ball every night, hoping you're happy. I want to know for sure that I'm part of the reason you are. You do make me stronger, in a very real way I hadn't expected. I can't do this without you.
"I'm not wondering about you anymore. I'm not going to pull you back and forth. I'm going to… HMMMPH."
He was interrupted in the best way as Daphne leapt up from her seat, landing sideways in his lap. Her arms circled his neck, hugging him tightly. He wrapped his arms around her back, enjoying the feel of her against him. Her hair was as soft as it looked, and it tickled his face as he buried his nose in the crook of her neck.
When Daphne finally pulled back, Harry felt stronger than he ever had. He wasn't sure why, but he wasn't complaining either.
"Your eyes are glowing again."
"I'm surprised the rest of me isn't," he countered with a grin. His brain felt very pleasantly fuzzy.
"You're sure?" she asked, quickly turning serious.
"I've never been more sure about anything."
"Good then," Daphne replied with a self-satisfied smirk. "I won't have to kick your ass."
"My Uncle Charlus warned me about girls like you. It was either find a girl that will kick my ass and hold onto her, or run from her. I can't quite remember."
Daphne moved to stand in mock frustration, but Harry held her tight, proving he learned the lesson.
"It was the first," he whispered before pulling her close again.
"You know everything you just told me is pretty hard to believe, right?"
"It's the truth. I wouldn't make something like that up."
"I didn't say I don't believe you. I just meant that other people may not."
"It's not something I plan on telling a lot of people," he responded with a grimace. "Everyone else that knows is under contract or oath."
Daphne quickly removed his hands from her back, and slid to the couch next to him.
"I'll need to take an oath too, then," she said seriously.
"Daph, I'd never ask you to do that."
"Because you're obviously blinded by my beauty." she countered with a smirk. "I won't be the one to let your secrets out. Before I leave I'm taking an oath."
"Thank you," Harry relented, feeling a bit relieved.
"Of course. Who else knows?"
"Ron, Hermione, and a random collection of adults, your dad included."
"That makes so much sense," she realized. "That's why everyone's been following you. You know what's coming."
"I wish I did," Harry clarified. "I didn't get glimpses of the future or anything, I just had help developing a plan."
"Still, it answers some questions I've been having. By the way, what did my dad say when you told him you were done being an idiot?"
"Who says I did? Maybe I just told him I saved the day…"
"Harold."
"He was the one that finally made me see sense, actually. Out of all the people who have given incredibly unsolicited advice, your dad was the one that finally got through my stubbornness."
"He didn't threaten you?" Daphne asked in surprise.
"He wanted to," Harry admitted with a grin. "But he said he'd be silly not to want his daughter with someone who would die for her."
"You better not, Potter."
"I don't plan to, Greengrass. I have 'many sweets' to give you, remember? I owe you everything, Daph."
"No you don't," she argued. "You've given me everything I could possibly ask for tonight."
"Fine. No flowers or jewelry then. That makes life easier."
Harry cut off her indignant reply by conjuring a perfect purple dahlia. He held the beautiful flower up, and met Daphne's eyes seriously.
"All week I've been pinching myself. I can't believe how suddenly you've changed my life. How on Earth did I find you?"
"Magic," the girl responded with a smirk, stealing his dumb joke. She even wiggled her fingers before accepting the flower.
Harry was starting to worry about the state of his heart, as bursting twice in one day couldn't be healthy. As he tried to get his brain to work correctly, Daphne smelled the flower before smirking at him.
"So everyone's been telling you to quit being silly?"
"Pretty much."
"Who?"
"Ron was surprisingly poetic about it, and he's been right about everything so far. He told me to find the person I look for, and who looks for me."
"I can't help it," Daphne said with a slight blush. "It's like a compulsion. I feel like a little girl with a crush, and it's infuriating. I can't wait for you to start showing me some flaws."
"Unfortunately for you, madam," Harry countered pompously. "I'm flawless."
Daphne quickly shut her eyes and crossed her fingers. "I wish for a billion galleons and for Umbridge to turn into an actual toad." She cracked an eyelid, peeking around dramatically.
"Damn," she said, snapping her fingers. "Looks like I only get one."
Harry tossed a pillow at her while laughing. "I'll see what I can do about the other two, shall I?"
"The second might take you a while."
"Then I'll work on the third, and we can put the billions on the backburner."
"Who else?" she asked with a happy smile.
"Your dad, Hermione, Sirius, and Dumbledore."
"Professor Dumbledore thinks about my love life? This is so bizarre."
"And Snape."
"What!?"
"My life is weird," Harry answered with a chuckle. "You'll get used to it."
"I doubt it."
Daphne scooted closer, raising his left hand and sliding into his side. Harry wrapped his arm around her, as her's reached around his stomach.
"I like this spot," she said, the side of her face pressing into his chest.
"You fit perfectly, so I guess it's yours," Harry replied, grinning down at her.
"Good."
She tilted her head to meet his eyes and smiled happily at him. Harry's stomach completed a very familiar somersault, and he had to fight from being caught by her eyes.
"I gotta figure that out," he mumbled distractedly.
"Figure what out?"
"That look," Harry replied, blushing slightly. "Every time you smile at me, or look at me like that, it's like my world stops, but everyone else keeps going."
"I can stop," Daphne offered with a smirk.
"Don't you dare," he replied seriously before returning the smirk. "I couldn't deprive you of the view."
She swatted his side with the hand wrapped around him, burying her face again with a giggle.
"Why does this feel so easy?" she asked after a moment, squeezing him tight to indicate their closeness.
"I've been practicing."
Daphne laughed aloud, swatting him again while she did. Harry wasn't ready for the sound, and stiffened slightly in response. She pulled away at the movement, a determined look on her face.
"Okay, Potter. What gives? Why does my laugh have that reaction on you?"
Harry sighed softly, feeling a bit embarrassed.
"You have my Mum's laugh," he answered. "For years, the only sound I heard from her was her terrified screams whenever I was too close to a Dementor. But suddenly, she was in front of me. I got to hear her speak… and sing. I know what she sounds like when she's scolding me or my Dad. But her laugh… it was just so free. And when I left, I knew I'd miss that sound for the rest of my life…"
"Harry," she began gently. "I don't know what to say. If it bothers you…"
"You're crazy, Daph," he quickly interrupted, smiling down at her. "I already told you it's perfect. Your laugh is my favorite sound in the world, and nothing else even comes close. I'm just glad the similarities between you and her end there."
"She must have been really special," she said, returning his smile.
"She was. They both were. And they would've loved you."
"That makes me really happy. It's just a shame that both of my parents can't stand you."
"I know," Harry answered with a smirk. "It'll be decades before they come around."
He closed his eyes, soaking in the completeness he was feeling, and didn't notice Daphne's happy blush at the sarcastic comment.
A/N: Daphne's perspective will be written occasionally, though I'm not really comfortable writing as a fifteen year old girl. The split perspective will grow a bit, though it'll be limited. So far I've only added Remus to that short list, though I have plans for a couple others. Again, it will be minimal, so it won't be a Harry chapter followed by an 'other' chapter. Majoritively Harry's perspective, with a couple pages from someone else here or there.
Also, I had issues with formatting the letters, and was wondering if any of the authors in the group know how to fix the issue? In my Word doc, the letters are offset an inch into the page, but the offset didn't come with the upload. I'd rather not type letters in italics, nor go through and hit the space bar a few times on each line. Help please!