A/N: Hey everyone! My trip was great besides the insane flight home in a storm, but getting back into the swing of things has been tough. We hit 1,000 followers over the weekend, which is crazy, and I truly appreciate all the support! Solid timing with Chapter 25 and Christmas day falling at the same time in the story, and with the holiday coming up in real life. This chapter is typical Christmas day fluff with some important conversations sprinkled in, but things pick up again shortly.
Chapter 25
December 25, 1995
Daphne woke early as usual, confused for a moment about the room she found herself in. She felt like going back to sleep, as the day before had been emotionally exhausting, but Christmas was her favorite day of the year. It was a little bittersweet this year though, and she hugged her stuffed owl as she tried to focus on the positive. The pain from not being in their home was offset by the fact that her family was safe, and that's all that really mattered.
And Harry. He was in this house somewhere. Her boyfriend. She couldn't stop the happy shivers at the thought. She finally hopped out of bed, heading to the bathroom to get ready. She knew he was already up, likely training, and she wanted to be the first to wish him a Happy Christmas. Her usual morning routine was blessedly short, and she was out the door in just a few minutes.
She felt nervous energy fill her body, but forced it away frustratedly. After everything in the last few months, she shouldn't still be having this reaction to the thought of her boyfriend, but she couldn't help it. He seemed to just have some sort of power over her, and it was scary, but in a good way.
She knew the reaction was mutual, as she'd seen him go dumb at times as well. Her heart felt like it was exploding every time that happened, and she hoped the feeling would never stop.
She reached the basement door, taking a moment to calm her nerves again before entering. Her efforts were proven useless, however, as she reached the bottom of the stairs.
Harry was across the room, hanging bare-chested from a piece of muggle workout equipment. Daphne's brain malfunctioned, and she was unable to do anything but stand and stare. He was gorgeous. His dark hair was matted with sweat, and his defined muscles seemed to glisten as he pulled his head above the bar.
He wasn't overly built, trim not large, and Daphne's fluttering stomach told her that he was exactly her type. The fluttering became more of a tidal wave when she realized he had spotted her, his familiar lopsided grin appearing as he pulled himself up once more with ease. He then dropped to the ground, grabbing a towel and wiping his face as he moved towards her.
She tried her best to compose herself as he approached, but his close presence and choice of clothing didn't seem to allow her to.
"Good morning," Harry said warmly, clearly pleased to see her.
"Hi." She was happy to get the word out, but wasn't sure she was capable of more.
He seemed to notice her predicament, and his grin grew teasing. She harshly forced her mind to clear, unwilling to look like an idiot any longer.
"Did you just come to watch?"
"I came to tell you Happy Christmas," she replied haughtily, feeling a bit more like herself. "But if you're gonna make fun of me, perhaps I'll go back to bed."
"I'd never. Happy Christmas, Daph. I think I like seeing your beautiful face this early in the day."
"You better," she countered sternly, though she felt her cheeks redden at the compliment.
"Did you sleep okay?"
"Eventually. Astoria had a bit of a melt down and came to my room to hang out for a bit." Daphne had been happy for the company, as the emotions of the day were overwhelming for her as well.
"That's probably normal," Harry offered gently. "I'm sorry you're here instead of at home. I'd give you a hug if I wasn't so sweaty."
"Don't you dare," she spat indignantly, though what she felt at the possibility was the exact opposite of her words.
"Well when you say it like that," he replied with an evil grin.
Daphne watched as he tossed his towel to a basket in the corner, and turned back to her with playful eyes. She moved as soon as he did, dodging his attempt to grab her. She darted around the room, putting workout equipment between herself and the boy she really wouldn't mind catching her.
"Harold," she hissed warningly to no effect, as his grin only grew wider.
"Just a little hug! I should be allowed to hug my girlfriend, I think."
He darted to one side, and she swung herself to the other, using the machine to slingshot her back towards the stairs. She bounded up the first few steps, and drew her wand as she turned on her pursuer.
"You'll be allowed plenty of hugs once you've showered, you beast. Don't make me curse you on Christmas."
Harry stopped immediately at the sight of her wand, his arms raised slightly in surrender. His smile, however, showed Daphne exactly how unbothered he was by the threat.
"I'll take you up on that offer," he said happily, and Daphne couldn't help returning the smile.
"I'm gonna go make some tea. Feel free to join me once you're clean."
"Yes, ma'am."
Daphne turned on her heel, her heart racing outrageously, and not only from the brief chase. She forced herself up the stairs without looking back and closed the basement door behind her. She collapsed against it heavily, trying to force her breathing to return to normal, and closed her eyes as a smile grew so wide it hurt her cheeks.
"I really hate what I'm seeing right now," her father said dryly from nearby.
Daphne giggled at his tone, and opened her eyes to see the man standing awkwardly at the base of the stairs.
"You don't like seeing me happy?"
"I love seeing you happy," Daniel argued immediately. "But I know who's behind that door at the moment, and that expression on your face is something I could go without. I'd have words with the boy if I thought it'd do any good."
"Oh hush," she countered, moving to hug the man. "You love Harry, and you trust me."
"I'll always love you more," he countered, giving up the act and smiling down at her. "You just give me the word and I'll hire a thousand hit wizards and confront him."
"I'll let you know," she agreed with a laugh, leading her father into the main kitchen.
—
"Happy Christmas again," a freshly clean Harry whispered, pulling his girlfriend into a hug. "Is this more to your satisfaction?"
"It is," Daphne replied, her hands grabbing the back of his shirt. "Mmmm, you smell good."
"I shower once a week, whether I need it or not."
Harry felt Daphne swat him for his bad joke, and smiled over her head at the gathered wizards behind. Sirius, Daniel, Remus, and Dumbledore all sat around the large kitchen island, nursing cups of tea with varying degrees of alertness. Harry released his girlfriend and made his way to a plate of muffins Winky placed on the counter as snacks.
"Albus, I'm glad you could join us," he said, grabbing a muffin. He grinned at his godfather as the man scooted back grumpily at the sight of the pastry.
"I was pleased to be invited, my boy," the older man replied with a smile. "I would have felt quite lost spending Christmas alone. Present company may even outclass Hogwarts during the holiday."
"I'm glad Daphne and I could help. Sorry about the other three."
Remus snorted a laugh while Daniel faked an offended look. Sirius gave no response, as he wasn't quite a person until he finished a cup of tea.
"How long until your better half and youngest join us?" Harry asked around a bite of muffin.
"Soon I'd guess," Daniel replied. "Though I don't think either of them slept much."
Harry winced, knowing the family was still in shock from the previous day. He wished they decided to cast the Fidelius on their home earlier, but knew it could have been much worse. He sent the father a look of commiseration, and put his free arm around Daphne who snuggled into his side.
"Daniel," Albus began seriously. "If I can assist in any required cleanup, please let me know."
"Thank you," the man answered with a nod. "Harry and I are planning to check on the property later in the week if you'd like to join us."
"Of course, just let me know when. Have you reached out to your friends and family to let them know you're well?"
"Last night. There may be a few families asking to be added to your list… they said they'd let me know."
"Pretty small silver lining," Remus said sympathetically.
"But silver all the same," Daniel countered with a sad smile.
"Look alive," Harry interjected quickly, feeling Emily and Astoria approaching.
The group quickly shook off their glum looks as the two made their entrance. Daniel was the first to greet them with exuberant hugs and Daphne followed his lead, intent on making the pair, especially Astoria, feel comfortable.
"Thank you all for waiting," Emily said when she released her daughter. "Dobby helped me prepare the largest sitting room last night if we'd like to move that direction."
Daniel handed the ladies a cup of tea each, and Harry led the way to the sitting room. There wasn't a rush for the presents as there may have been normally, but the group was doing their best to treat the day as a normal Christmas.
Harry's jaw dropped as he entered the room, mesmerized by the beautiful decorations. The large tree that Charlie delivered before school let out stood in one corner, decked from tip to trunk in twinkling white lights and hand carved wooden ornaments. The mantle over the roaring fire was draped in garland, three stockings hanging underneath. Strands of matching lights hung from the ceiling, and Harry realized he liked the feeling of the white bulbs over the colored lights the Dursley's always used.
On a table next to the hearth stood a miniature replica of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, each decorated for the holiday. Harry saw Albus' eyes light up at the sight, and Harry smiled as the man moved to inspect it. He called for Dobby, the artist behind the centerpiece, and smiled at his excited friend. He led the elf towards the Headmaster, and noticed his blue eyes were suspiciously twinkly.
"Happy Christmas, Albus," he interrupted the man's perusal. "Dobby did most of the construction, and I added some finishing touches. You should be in the real castle, but I figured you'd like your own version since you aren't."
"What about my socks?" he replied in surprise.
"Next year," Harry answered with a laugh. "Hogwarts isn't the same without you, sir."
"Thank you, boys. It's truly special to me," he said, pulling Harry and Dobby into brief hugs.
"Dobby, I'd like you and Winky to join us for presents and breakfast. Do you think Pocky would come?" Harry asked his friend.
"Pocky is visiting the village elves, but I's go convince Winky," he replied excitedly before popping away.
Astoria began delivering gifts to their recipients, and Harry moved to sit on one of the couches between Daphne and Sirius. Shopping this year had been tough, as their group was hesitant to go out to the shops with the current state of the world. He'd enlisted Remus, Sirius, and Dobby for help with most of his, and spent much of his last few weeks in the Room working on them. The few things he did buy were purchased through catalogues.
Everyone seemed delighted with what they received, Emily and Astoria even gasped in awe at the sight of the earrings they'd gotten from Harry.
"I added some protective charms to them," Harry explained when they told him how much they loved the jewelry. "They won't block many spells completely, but they'll limit the effects of most curses."
The ladies thanked him profusely before returning to their piles. Harry pulled a large one to himself and ripped the paper, laughing as he revealed an elegant metal sculpture. It was the Potter family crest, and was designed to be hung in an entranceway or above a fireplace.
"Not the reaction I was going for," Daniel said confusedly.
"Open the big red one," Harry replied with a smile. "You too, Pads."
The two did so, revealing similar crests carved from oak. He and Dobby worked on them for a couple nights a piece, and Harry was thrilled with how they turned out once they were stained.
"This is amazing," Daniel said appreciatively.
"It is," Sirius agreed enthusiastically.
"As is this one!" Harry celebrated. "Great minds…"
"Where?" Daphne quipped from his left, drawing laughter from the group.
Harry watched as she opened the mirror he asked Remus to help him with, her face lighting up with joy.
"Is it connected to yours?" she asked, hugging him as best she could through all the presents.
"It is. And the one that your Mum hasn't opened yet."
"What is it?" Emily asked, finding the similar sized package.
"It's a pretty brilliant piece of magic Remus developed." The man raised his cup in salute, his eyes not leaving the first of a set of rare books on archaic magic Harry gifted him.
"Hold it up and say Daphne's name."
She did so, nearly dropping the object as her daughter's face appeared.
"This is incredible!" she muttered in wonder. "We can talk every night when you're all back at school!"
"That was what I was thinking. Daphne's comes with a stipulation to share with Astoria, and you can decide if Daniel deserves a turn."
"Thank you, Harry. And you, Remus," the named man replied seriously. "Having a way to talk to the girls when they're away is special."
Remus and Daniel began talking about the magic behind the mirrors, and Harry took the bit of privacy to whisper to Daphne.
"I have something else for you later."
"I kept yours out of the pile, too," she whispered back with a smile, quickly kissing him on the cheek.
"D'awwwww," Sirius said from his right, earning an elbow from his godson. "Open this one."
Harry took the offered package, ripping the paper carefully. He opened the small wooden box underneath and revealed a beautiful wristwatch.
"It's perfect! Thank you."
"It's tradition for a father to give his son a watch when he comes of age," Sirius explained somberly. "I know you're only of age on a technicality, and that I'll never be James, but I wanted to do it all the same."
Harry pulled the man into a tight embrace, the thought behind the gift stirring his emotions.
"I love it, Pads. And Dad would be proud of how great you've been."
"I hope so. Check this out," he replied, grabbing the watch. "It's charmed unbreakable and waterproof, but this little button on the side is the cool one."
When Sirius pressed the tiny button the face of the watch instantly shifted, showing cardinal directions instead of the time. The compass needle, however, was replaced with small arrows with names written on them. Harry counted three, each overlapping a bit at the moment, the top one reading 'Sirius'.
"I'm connected to the hand by a drop of blood. It won't tell you exactly where I am, but it'll tell you which direction, and a guideline for how far. Blue for an extreme distance, and red, as you can see, for right next to you."
"That's amazing. Whose names are under yours?"
"Remus and Albus. I'll teach you how to add to it later, but if you press the face thinking of the person you want to find, their name will pop to the top."
"That's impressive magic," Daniel interjected from behind. "I'm sure there's a few people in the room that wouldn't mind donating a bit of blood."
"I'd like to add you all if you're willing," Harry answered seriously. "This is incredible."
The group turned back to focus on their own presents, but Harry couldn't help fiddling with the new watch on his wrist. Daphne eventually nudged him with her shoulder, sending a pointed look to the pile of unwrapped presents at his feet. He sent her a smile full of happiness and contentment, and dug through the gifts.
Eventually all packages were open, and the group moved towards the dining room for breakfast. Winky popped away to get everything ready, but not before Harry received her shy promise that she would join them.
"Harry," Albus said as they walked through the hallway. "I'd like to borrow Dobby for a moment. I have a bit of a surprise for you."
"Of course," Harry said warily. "Will I like this surprise?"
"It's Christmas, my boy," he answered vaguely. "A holiday I take most seriously."
Harry nodded with a smile, and his elf friend popped away with the older wizard. Harry took his normal seat at the large dining room table, his friends choosing to sit close, leaving the far half of the table empty. Winky outdid herself as usual, and the dishes spread widely. Harry grabbed a delicious looking cinnamon bun and a few strips of bacon before Emily grabbed a casserole dish and headed his way with it.
"My famous Christmas breakfast casserole," she explained, spooning a large helping onto his plate. "Winky's smells even better than mine usually does. Daniel adds hot sauce if you'd like."
"It looks delicious," Harry said honestly as the woman served Sirius to his right.
Once everyone's plates were full, Remus cleared his throat and sent Harry a pointed look. He got the message, and stood with a mug of mulled cider in hand.
"Before we eat," he began a bit nervously. "I just wanted to say how thankful I am for the people at this table. I know today isn't exactly what any of us had in mind, but you've all made this my favorite Christmas by far. I promise to do everything I can to make the coming years' Christmas days as happy as possible for all of us."
"Here, here," Sirius added, raising his mulled wine.
Everyone around the table agreed, raising their drinks and taking a sip. Harry returned to his seat and dug in to his food with abandon, the casserole as good as it looked. Before he could get more than a few bites in, however, he felt a familiar presence returning with Albus.
"Hagrid!" he called excitedly, jumping up to hug the large man.
"Happy Christmas, Harry," he replied warmly, returning the hug. "'Lo everyone. Lord Greengrass."
Harry heard the confusion in his friend's voice, but was glad to see Daniel approach as he pulled back from the embrace.
"It's Daniel, Mr. Hagrid," the man replied warmly, breaking any possible tension. "Astoria adores your classes."
"I'm pleased to hear it," Hagrid said happily, shaking the extended hand. "It's nice to meet you. Call me Hagrid, or Rubeus if you'd prefer. I always look for my Da when I hear the mister."
"I've done the same," he replied with a grin.
"How'd you find yourselves with this miscreant for Christmas?"
"We had some trouble at our house last night," Daniel answered, his smile faltering. "Harry's dating my daughter Daphne, and was kind enough to put us up for the holidays."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Hagrid said sympathetically, before trying to push past the unpleasantness. "But I'm pleased as punch for you, Daphne. Harry's a good boy, if a bit of a trouble maker."
"More than a bit, Hagrid," Albus interjected with a chuckle. "I'll tell you some stories as we eat."
"D'you mind if I join you, Harry?"
"Of course not," he answered happily. "I'm glad you're back!"
The three older men moved to sit, and Harry caught Daphne's eye as he did the same. He'd told her weeks earlier how he felt about Hagrid, and she was beaming in pleasure at his reunion. Harry's stomach flipped at the sight, and he returned her smile before turning back to his plate.
—
Once everyone had eaten their fill and helped Winky clear the dishes, the group returned to their separate rooms to put on winter clothes. The property's climate control usually kept the weather relatively mild, but Harry lowered that ward for the holidays. A fresh blanket of snow fell overnight, and he planned to enjoy it.
He waited at the bottom of the stairs for Daphne, grabbing the bundled girl's hand when she arrived. The pair ignored the retching sound Astoria made behind them and headed out to the grounds. Harry saw Albus, Hagrid, and Remus talking near the pond and led the way over to them.
The serious looks on the men's faces were quickly wiped away as they approached, and Harry made a mental note to ask them about it later. Albus smiled at the trio before drawing his wand, freezing the pond solid with a large wave of his arm.
"Oh my gosh," Daphne breathed joyfully. "We have to go skating!"
Harry laughed as the girl pulled him towards the picnic table, where she sat and pointed down at her boots excitedly. Harry obliged the unasked request, quickly turning the snow boots into perfect silver ice skates. Astoria followed expectantly, and her shoes became garish neon orange skates with bright green laces.
"Hey!" Astoria shouted indignantly.
"Maybe if you hadn't been so repulsed by me holding your sister's hand, you wouldn't look so ridiculous," Harry countered with a victorious smirk.
Remus quickly transfigured the girls skates to match Daphne's, and Harry responded by changing the man's shoes into overly large skis. The gentle slope of the property quickly carried the man towards the ice before he regained his composure enough to reverse the spell. Harry merely smiled at the glare sent his way before turning to Albus.
"This is great, sir. I think I'll send Dobby to see if the Weasleys want to join us."
"I've already sent a message to Arthur," he countered with a smile. "They and the Grangers should be here soon. Let's go join the girls... I've always found gliding around the ice to be very freeing."
Harry laughed as the respected wizard quickly gave himself a pair of skates that matched the design of Astoria's first. He cast the spell on his own shoes before following the energetic octogenarian onto the ice.
The younger four Weasleys and Hermione joined them after a few minutes, with their parents, Bill, and Charlie choosing to mingle with the other adults. Harry was pretty wobbly on the ice at first, but Daphne gave him a few pointers until he was able to skate around smoothly. After a half hour of circling the pond holding his girlfriend's hand, he noticed the twins standing by the bank, whispering back and forth.
Knowing they were plotting something, Harry pulled Daphne behind him. She quickly caught on, grabbing his jacket with her left hand as her right drew her wand. The twins turned as one, snowballs levitating all around them. They banished the projectiles towards the other skaters, but Daphne quickly sent them back to their creators. Her aim was perfect, and Harry laughed as he watched each snowball smash into the teens.
The rebuttal caught the twins unaware, and their faces were covered before they were smart enough to turn their backs. Harry cast a wandless banishing charm at the pair, flinging them off their feet and into the snowbank beyond. When they finally dug themselves out they looked like creatures out of a children's book, fluffy white snow covering their entire bodies.
"Nice one, you two!" Hermione called with a laugh as she skated past, holding Ron's hand.
"Impressive, Miss Greengrass," Albus added as he moved by nimbly.
Harry turned to his smiling girlfriend, pulling her close. He looked down at her, and couldn't help getting lost in her eyes.
"You look really cute with rosy cheeks," he said after a moment.
"I'm glad," she replied with a smile. "They're frozen, but at least you like them."
"Very much," he countered, leaning forward to place a kiss on each of them.
"Well now they're all tingly."
"Glad I could help. Looks like your mum brought out some drinks. Wanna take a break?"
"Yeah, I could use something to thaw me out. I'll grab something for you… go catch up with Hagrid."
"I will," Harry agreed with a grateful smile.
The two made their way to the bank, splitting up when their skates were boots once more. Harry saw Hagrid speaking to Sirius and Charlie, drinks in hand, and headed their way.
"You look happy," Hagrid noted with a smile when he approached.
"I am," he replied, returning the smile.
"You deserve it. I wouldn't've guessed you and Daphne woulda wound up together, but you make a good pair."
"Yeah, it kinda came out of nowhere, but I'm happy it did," he countered, his eyes finding the girl in question.
She was talking to her mum and Molly, all three witches smiling happily. He watched as they turned to look at him, and grinned at them in response as it wasn't hard to guess the topic of their conversation. Harry turned back to Hagrid, noticing the three men smirking at him. He rolled his eyes, choosing to ignore the looks.
"So what's with all the serious faces earlier? And don't even think about it, Pads," he warned as he saw his godfather's face light up at the question.
"It's… well… it's a bit tricky," Hagrid answered hesitantly. "You know I was visitin' the giants, and things were goin' well. Up until a couple weeks ago when Death Eaters showed up to do the same…"
"Damn it," Harry muttered in response. "Did they see you?"
"Olympe's an impressive witch," Hagrid replied, shaking his head. "We were hidden before they even knew we were there. We tried to meet with the giants again when the bastards left, but the gurg wouldn't speak to us. I found one of the older ones who was friendlier, and he said the clan was split. He thought there'd be a fight over it."
"Did anyone get hurt?"
"No, Olympe managed to convince the few friendly ones to relocate in the night. I'm not sure we can count on 'em to fight, but they'll stay out of it at least."
"Well I guess it could be worse," Harry mused.
"There's a bit of good news, though," Hagrid continued with a nervous smile. "I learned I have a half-brother. Name's Grawp."
"That's great, Hagrid! Was he with the group that moved?"
"He was… but the other giants didn't treat him well. He joined the clan when my mum died a few years ago, and he didn't really know how to communicate. He's learnin', but between that and his smaller size, the others picked on him."
"Where'd you put him?" Harry asked, realizing where this was going.
"I was gonna take him to the Forbidden Forest, but Professor Dumbledore said it'd be best if I stayed away. He's hidin' in the woods not far from here, 'til I could talk to you."
"Hagrid," he replied, thinking quickly. "I'm happy to have Grawp, and there's plenty of space for him, but there's a lot of people here."
"He'd not hurt a fly," the large man defended quickly. "That's partly why he was picked on… he's too gentle for a giant."
"Bill mentioned he could cast a containment ward on the woodland to the north," Sirius interjected. "Should keep the big guy in if you give your permission."
"Of course I will," Harry said sincerely, drawing a smile from his biggest friend. "That was never in question. I just wanted to make sure he's safe, and everyone else is, too."
"Dumbledore's said he'd help me teach him," Hagrid added brightly. "We'll get him talkin' and socialized in no time."
"Works for me. Do you wanna stay at the manor?"
"I was actually hopin' you'd let me build a small house in the woods with him."
"No problem. Do you need help with it?"
"I'll manage. I'll move him after Bill casts the ward, and sleep in my tent 'til it's built. Thank you, Harry."
"He's family," he replied easily. "I'm glad you found him."
"So am I. Looks like someone's found you, too."
Harry turned to where he nodded, seeing Daphne heading their way with mugs in each hand. He took one from her when she approached, and smiled his gratitude.
"Daphne," Hagrid began warmly. "You're a natural out there."
"Thanks, Hagrid," she replied with a nervous smile. "I've always loved to skate. I'm happy you made it for Christmas, Harry's been telling me all about you."
"Whatever he's said's a lie," Hagrid said with a booming laugh, setting the girl at ease.
"All good things," she countered with a warmer smile.
"Nevermind, then. You two go on and be kids enjoyin' the snow. Leave us old folk to our stories."
"Speak for yourself," Charlie said with a grin, moving towards the pond. "Harry, can you come by the village this week?"
"I was planning to," he answered curiously.
"Good, I've got some ideas to run past you."
Charlie joined his younger siblings on the ice, while Harry and Daphne walked aimlessly. Harry grabbed her free hand with his right, noticing her fingers were like ice cubes. He knelt down to set his mug in the snow and drew his wand, concentrating on what he wanted. A large mitten appeared on their joined hands, and Daphne interlaced her fingers with his.
"I don't know how you do that," she said with a smile.
"The magic?"
"No, though that's impressive in itself. I meant how you constantly know exactly what I want, and exactly how to give it to me."
Harry smiled at her in response, wanting a bit of space from the rest of the group. She didn't seem offended by the silence, and let him lead her down the hill to the stables. When they reached the warm wooden building, he headed towards Buckbeak's stall and opened it with his hip. They shed the mitten and set their drinks down before turning to the proud animal.
"You remember how to greet a hippogriff?"
"How could I forget?" Daphne countered, bowing deeply. "I remember how amazed I was when you hopped on this beauty's back. How are you Buckbeak?"
The hippogriff snorted in response, returning the girl's bow and allowing her to pet him. Daphne had been overjoyed when she heard the story of rescuing Sirius, glad the animal didn't pay for Draco's stupidity.
"Hey Buck," Harry said, petting his other shoulder. "There's a surprise waiting for you near the pond if you'd like to go see."
The intelligent animal's eyes grew bright, though he didn't seem like he wanted to cut the attention he was getting short. Eventually, curiosity must have gotten the better of him, as he carefully turned and nudged the lever that opened the exterior door to his stall.
The two teens watched him gallop away, and shortly after heard Hagrid's joyous yell of greeting to his old friend. Harry laughed as he led Daphne back into the main stables, gently tugging the girl to face him once they were back in the warmth.
"I'm not sure how I'm able to make you happy, Daph," he answered the earlier question. "But I know it's something I'm unbelievably thankful for, because you do the same for me."
"Harry, every time I need a hug, or a joke, or a smile, or just a look, it's like you read my mind. Just this morning, when Dumbledore mentioned our house, I moved towards you for a hug but your arm was already moving around me. It doesn't make sense."
"And when I wanted a chance to speak to Hagrid," Harry countered. "You mentioned it before I could, and brought me hot chocolate to boot! I'm telling you, it's most definitely a mutual thing that I don't understand."
"So we agree that it's weird, and we hate it."
"Absolutely," he agreed with a smile, seeing the happiness reflected in her eyes. "Maybe I should just stay away from you since we hate it so much…"
"There's that Gryffindor idiocy you're so famous for…"
"Rude. I think I'm offended."
"I think you're finally alone with your girlfriend, Harold. Really wanna spend that time being offended?"
"I can think of other ways to spend it."
"Then quit talking."
"You first."
Daphne tilted her head up slightly, her gaze turning from teasing to serious. Harry, briefly hoping the stables were as empty as they seemed, brought his right hand up to tenderly cup the side of her face, his left resting on her waist. He felt his brain freeze at the position he found himself in, but his body seemed to react instinctually.
He gently pulled her face towards his, leaning down and placing a light kiss on her lips. Harry's heart exploded at the contact, and he knew he'd found his new favorite hobby. He pulled back slightly, and saw a similar look in her eyes.
Daphne wasn't satisfied, however, and grabbed the back of his neck, pulling him back down. The second kiss was firmer than the first, and Harry felt his knees buckle at the feeling. His hands clutched tighter involuntarily, the soft skin of her cheek seeming to warm underneath.
After a long moment the two finally pulled apart. Daphne's hands found the front of his jacket and she rested her forehead on his chest, breathing deeply. Harry also tried to calm his pounding heart, hugging the girl tight to him for support.
"That's exactly what I was talking about… just what I wanted," she said softly, her voice shaky.
"That was for me," Harry argued confidently, though his own words wavered.
"I can accept that type of selfishness."
Harry closed his eyes, trying to regain his equilibrium. His heart still raced, but he wished he could live in this moment forever. He felt Daphne tilt her head to look at him, and opened his eyes to smile down at her.
"What are you thinking about so hard?" she asked with a smile.
"Just trying to figure out the magic required to stop time."
"You know," Daphne replied, her smile growing wider. "If you weren't so sincere, I'd make fun of how cheesy that sounded."
"Get used to it," he countered with a smirk. "You make me feel like writing poetry… and that is one thing this world doesn't need from me."
"We should probably rejoin the others," she said with a dejected sigh. "Dad will send out a search party soon."
"Well I like his timing better than Sirius'."
The smiling couple grabbed their mugs and mitten, and Harry rewarmed both drinks with a wave of his hand. They walked towards the door of the stables, but before opening it, Harry tugged their interlaced fingers firmly.
Daphne twirled gracefully towards him, a grin on her lips, which Harry quickly replaced with another firm kiss. He leaned her forehead against hers afterwards, his eyes glowing with power.
"You know people will guess exactly what we were up to if you go back looking all super-wizard, right?"
"What can I say?" Harry countered with a smirk. "You make me glow."
"I will make fun of you for that one," Daphne replied with a roll of her eyes. "Get to moving, Shakespeare."
Harry laughed, feeling happier than should be allowed. He opened the door with his shoulder and the two slowly meandered back to the group. As soon as they crested the small hill and saw their friends and family, they were met with a chorus of cat-calls. Harry made sure to remember the perpetrators were Sirius, Astoria, and the twins, vowing revenge.
He looked towards Daphne, seeing a blush growing on her cheeks, and squeezed her hand a few times in support. She turned to him and matched his grin somewhat shyly. He nodded at her confidently, which she returned, and the happy couple walked forward to meet their fate.
—
The group spent most of the day out in the snow, with Winky providing a huge pot of soup and fresh crusty bread for lunch. Albus extended the picnic table and added a warming charm over the area so the gathering could eat in comfort.
A few of the group tried to poke fun at Harry for his suspicious absence with Daphne, but he couldn't find it in himself to feel embarrassed. He simply answered every question with a smile, and squeezed Daphne's hand which he wasn't willing to release. As he finished his meal, Albus approached with a smile.
"Truly a happy day," he began with a smile, eyes twinkling. "I was wondering if I could steal Harry for a moment, Miss Greengrass."
"If you must," Daphne replied with a grin.
Harry followed the older man back to the manor, noticing Buckbeak, Hedwig, and Fawkes flying around each other overhead, seemingly playing tag. He had worried the hippogriff might view his owl as food, but the two became fast friends, often flying together around the property.
Dumbledore led him into the basement, drawing his wand when he reached the dueling area. Harry, not wanting another duel like the one yesterday, hesitated.
"Just a simple Expelliarmus is all I ask," Albus offered with a smile.
Harry's eyes widened as he realized the man's intent.
"No, sir. I'm happy for you to have it."
"And I'm happy to return it to its rightful owner. I can continue to carry and use it if you'd like, but once you disarm me, the wand will owe you its allegiance. I'd rather we do it now than when things get more dangerous. I'm not as fast as I once was, and I shudder to think of what this wand would do in the hands of another."
"What would me having its allegiance do to change that?"
"The Elder Wand can be called, Harry. If it is lost, or in times of need, its master can call the wand to appear to them, much like Gryffindor's sword. Its allegiance will only shift if its master is disarmed, so if you want me to keep it, you can place it on the ground when we're finished."
"I wouldn't want you to be without it, sir," Harry argued stubbornly.
"It has never worked for me like I thought it would," the man countered easily. "I believe its power is truly meant for someone from the Peverell line. It's been a fine instrument, and has a few quirks other wands do not, but I daresay anything of note that I've accomplished has been because of the man who's wielded it."
"So all the things, then," he observed with a grin.
"It may seem like I've done a lot, but I daresay once you reach my age, your list will be much longer."
"I'd be happy for it to say 'killed Voldemort, and faded into obscurity'."
"And I think this wand will help you in that endeavor. Now take it from me."
Harry looked at his mentor, who smiled serenely, and drew his wand. He put as little into the spell as he could, and cast. The beautiful wand leapt from the man's loose grip, flying through the air towards him. He caught it with his offhand easily, and dropped his holly wand in surprise when he did.
As soon as his skin touched the smooth wood, his magic was ripped out of his body with force. Harry was careful to aim away from Albus, as a powerful stream of multi-colored magic rushed from the wand. He noticed the weapon didn't buck or jerk in his hand, despite the power being pushed through it.
After thirty seconds or so, the magic died abruptly. Harry felt dizzy, but the sensation quickly dissipated. He looked with wonder towards his Headmaster, and saw the man looked as confused as he felt.
"Guessing that didn't happen for you?"
"And I'm guessing you didn't cast a spell?" the man asked in lieu of a response.
"It's like the wand wanted to test my magic or something. As soon as I touched the wood, it was yanked out of me against my will."
"Well I don't know about the wand," Albus said with a smile. "But I was impressed. I believe I was right in my assertion that the wand would work best in your hands. I'll remind you, though, Voldemort is also a Peverell."
"I know, sir," Harry countered darkly. "If the worst case comes to pass, and he disarms you, will it treat him as its master?"
"If what I know about the wand is correct, it shouldn't. You are now its master. Though anyone who manages to disarm you, even if you're not carrying the Elder Wand, would take that mantle. I suggest you disarm everyone you train with at the end of each session just to be safe."
"Will you keep carrying it, please?" he asked seriously. "I'd rather not have people constantly asking why I'm using the wand of the greatest wizard alive."
"Most experienced, perhaps. I'll carry it and my old wand together. If you have need of it, the Elder Wand will answer your call, and I will still be armed. So please, don't hesitate."
"Thank you. This is all a bit overwhelming."
"It is, isn't it?" the man answered with a bemused grin. "I have two books for you, by the way… your actual gifts. The first is my knowledge of the Hallows, and how the Wand works, as I've experimented for years. The second is a book of other magic I've created, or worked on and have yet to complete. I daresay it may come in handy, and we can work on the second together."
"Thank you, Albus," Harry replied seriously. "It's an honor to be trusted with your work."
"I trust no one more, my boy," he countered with a smile. "Now, shall we rejoin our friends? I promise to make time to help train you with your new wand, and to go through the books together."
Albus walked towards the teen as he spoke, placing a hand on Harry's shoulders when he approached.
"I look forward to it," Harry answered with a smile, leaning forward and hugging the man.
Dumbledore returned the hug warmly, and smiled at him when they pulled back.
"Of all the things you could have gifted me, my boy," he whispered emotionally. "Your forgiveness and your love are the things I treasure the most."
"I'm glad," Harry replied seriously before adopting a smirk. "Because it's socks from here on out, and I mean it this time."
—
The larger group broke up shortly after the two wizards returned. The Weasleys and Grangers were popped away to their homes, leaving an armload of presents for Harry and crew, and with a number of packages in return. Bill and Hagrid headed towards the woodlands to the north, though Hagrid promised to check in with Harry frequently. Albus also departed, intent on visiting his brother.
The manor felt much emptier without the raucous crowd, but Harry realized that as much as he loved those who left, he appreciated the peace of the smaller group. He suggested a movie night, to which everyone agreed excitedly. He followed the advice of Jonathan Granger, and popped the first Star Wars film into the VCR.
He had enjoyed his time with Hermione's parents, and realized his friend was a perfect combination of the two. Her father mentioned to him that it was one of their Christmas traditions to watch the trilogy over Christmas, and Harry liked the idea, knowing the series was popular in the muggle world.
Winky promised to provide snacks and sandwiches for dinner as the group found seats in the den. Sirius conjured a few large bean bag chairs for the kids, and Daphne moved hers closer to Harry's before settling in.
The group was captivated by the film from the first space battle, and Harry barely registered Winky popping in and delivering tubs of popcorn. He did notice, however, when Bill stopped by, but was stopped from standing by a motion from Remus. He assumed it was to tell them the wards were cast, and appreciated Moony speaking to the man for him. Harry squeezed a thoroughly enthralled Daphne's hand, grabbing a handful of popcorn with the other.
When the credits finally rolled, the group sat in silence for a long moment.
"I'm gonna buy Voldemort a helmet," Sirius said, breaking the silence and eliciting snorts of laughter from those around him.
They all stretched and moved to the kitchen at their own speed, Astoria being the first to grab a sandwich, crisps, and a drink from the tray Winky had prepared. Harry grabbed his own and moved to one of the couches, wanting the others to have a seat at the small dining table. The group chatted excitedly about the film and he enjoyed listening to the conversation, before Daniel sat beside him, plate in hand.
"This has been a great day, Harry," the man began earnestly. "Thank you for allowing us to join you."
"I should be thanking you," he replied. "It wouldn't have been the same without you and your family."
"Without Daphne," the man corrected.
"Well yeah," he admitted with a grin. "But the rest of you as well. Emily was great to set up breakfast and decorations, and you and Astoria aren't too terrible yourself."
"I heard that," Astoria called from her seat at the table.
"I meant you to. Eat your sandwich."
Daniel smiled at the byplay, tucking into his own meal. After polishing off his food, he turned back to the teen.
"I'm glad you and Daph found some time alone," he whispered seriously. "And I'm glad it was brief."
Harry chuckled at the man's facial expression, knowing his friend felt as awkward as he did in the situation.
"You have nothing to worry about," he promised softly after regaining his composure. "I respect her, and you, too much. And Daphne would hex me ten ways from Sunday if I showed anything else."
"I know she would, and I do trust you. It's just hard on a father learning another man has taken his spot."
"She loves you," Harry countered.
"She does. But it's no longer her father that she's pulling away to have adventures with. And as much as it may hurt, I'm thrilled it's you she's pulling away instead."
"So am I," Harry replied with a grin, glancing at the girl to find her looking at him. "She's something else."
"That she is," Daniel agreed, following his gaze and smiling at his daughter. "It's still early. We may be able to get the next two movies in."
"I like that idea," he replied easily. "Though I'll have to steal Daph at some point. We haven't swapped gifts yet."
"Take her after," the man answered with a smile. "My wife wants to find out what happens to 'Harry with a sword'. Her words, not mine. I can push curfew back for Christmas."
"I should've asked if the movies have a happy ending."
—
"It's not fair that Luke didn't find someone," Daphne complained as they walked through the dark courtyard, bundled up against the cold.
"Better than winding up with his sister," Harry countered with a shudder. He led the girl over to the still-frozen pond, and looked up at the stars.
"I came out here a lot over the summer… it's so quiet at night that it feels surreal. I'd just sit in the grass, watching the trees sway in the breeze or looking up at the stars. It made me feel so incredibly small in the best way."
"I like that feeling," Daphne agreed, slipping into the crook of his shoulder and looking upwards. "In a galaxy far away, there's some other happy couple looking back at us right now."
"I hope so," he replied with a grin. "Today was the best I've ever had, I think. It would be a shame if nobody else was this happy. I hate the circumstances behind you being here, though."
"It's hard to feel anything other than content right now. The four of us talked before the movie marathon… we're okay, I promise. Even Astoria said how much fun she was having, though she did say she thought the twins were cute..."
"That's concerning."
"Very. Luckily she seems to switch crushes daily."
"How about you?" Harry asked with a grin. "Shall I guard my heart against your fickle nature?"
"Not me," Daphne answered, snuggling in closer. "Like I said in my letters, I'm yours until you say otherwise."
"A dangerous thing to promise."
"I'm a brave person."
"You Gryffindor," he accused.
"Only when it comes to you," she countered with a smile.
Harry couldn't help pulling her into a kiss, her certainty filling him to the brim with happiness.
"You know Dad has his nose pressed against a window somewhere spying on us," Daphne laughed.
"Let him watch," he replied, kissing her again. "Six months ago I knew your name, and that you were a dangerous witch to approach. How did we get here?"
"I have no clue," Daphne answered seriously. "My life since that day in Diagon has felt like a dream or a nightmare, with little in between. It's…"
"Weird and you hate it, I know."
Harry laughed as she swatted him for stealing her joke, and led her to the picnic table. He produced two tiny wrapped packages, enlarging them with a wave of his hand. He repeated the motion over the two that Daphne placed carefully on the table.
"You got me three! No fair. I thought I'd be safe getting you two things," the girl complained jokingly.
"The mirror was a group gift, it doesn't count."
"I'll accept that. Now do your little jedi trick and warm this table up, I've already lost four toes and counting."
Harry cast a quick warming charm, rolling his eyes at his girlfriend's dramatics. He slid the larger of his two gifts in her direction, motioning for her to open it first. She did so, revealing a good sized velvet box. She opened the box and gasped at its contents.
"Harry," she breathed in disbelief. "They're gorgeous."
He had ordered a matching set of jewelry for her, and was pleased with the results. The earrings and necklace both held beautiful sapphires, and were charmed with the same protection as the earrings he'd given the other women in her family. He watched as Daphne rubbed her fingers over the beautiful pieces, a conflicted look on her face.
"Harry," she said after a moment. "This is too much. They must have cost a fortune."
"Daph, I know you're aware that I have money to burn. And I know you don't care, which I'm very thankful for. These jumped out at me when I saw them in the catalogue, and the cost means nothing. I felt happy when I saw them, and I hoped they would make you feel the same. I'd empty my vaults for that."
"You better not," Daphne replied quickly. "And they do make me happy. But so do your conjured flowers and stuffed animals. I don't need material things."
"I'm glad," he smiled. "But I'm going to occasionally offer anyway. Will you accept the gift? I spent a few hours adding protections to them, so it'd be pretty rude if you didn't."
"Of course I will," she answered with a smile. "I just don't want you to think you need to buy me stuff like this."
"My second gift will explain why I want to, I think," he countered shyly before moving to grab her gifts for him.
"This one first," the girl offered, pushing one his direction.
He unwrapped it, and his stomach flipped at the framed muggle photo. It was taken after her trio had won the dueling tournament, and he and Daphne were pulling away from the celebratory hug, his back to the camera. Daphne's heart was in her eyes as she beamed up at him.
Harry smiled at the memory, and knew this picture would go next to his bed.
"I love it," he said eventually, his eyes not leaving the photo.
"Colin took it," Daphne explained. "That expression is what you make me feel, Harry."
He laughed at her words, finally pulling his eyes away from the picture, and smiled at the girl's confused expression to his reaction. He pushed his second present for her towards the girl without a word, and simply motioned for her to open it. She did so, and her jaw dropped.
It was a picture taken from Remus' memory of the Hogsmeade attack. The man had glanced back as the group of students joined the aurors, and caught Harry in a moment of pure emotion. Daphne stood in the foreground, her back to Moony, and Harry stood further with a look on his face that now made the teen feel embarrassed.
It was half relief, half fear, and pure emotion. The still photo showed exactly what Harry had felt in the moment, and when Remus shared it with him he was blown away by how open he had been. He didn't like it at the time, but Moony promised Daphne would. And after how much he enjoyed the picture she had given him, he realized his friend was correct.
"That's what I see when I close my eyes," Daphne muttered without thought. "That look. That's how I knew… and why I was confident enough to write that first letter."
"And the picture you gave me is what I see whenever I think of you," Harry replied seriously. "Someone who reflects my happiness so clearly. Someone whose smile turns me to jelly. A smile that I intend to see as much as I possibly can."
The spoken of smile appeared, and Daphne leaned forward, kissing him firmly.
"I love it, Harry," she said as she pulled back. "Even more than the jewelry."
"I'm glad," he countered with a smile. "We should head back."
"No way! You have another gift."
Daphne pushed the forgotten present towards him, suddenly losing her confidence. She seemed hesitant to release it, but did so when Harry smiled comfortingly at her. He opened the small package, and revealed a black elastic band of some sort. He looked at the girl in confusion, and smiled at the bright blush on her cheeks.
"Put it around your forearm," she finally offered.
Harry raised his jacket sleeve to do so, and as soon as the material pulled taut around his arm he nearly fell from his seat. A feeling of almost tangible happiness, pride, excitement, worry, and love poured into him. He was completely overwhelmed by the influx, and Daphne steadied him with an arm to his back. The feeling was too powerful to understand, but it filled him with more joy than should be legal.
"What is it?" he managed to whisper, trying to steady himself.
"It's what I feel for you," Daphne replied shyly. "I tried for a bracelet, but couldn't get the spell right. The best I could do was a simple armband. The feeling will stop in a couple seconds, but will return if you tap it with your wand. You don't have to wear it."
"Daph," he replied after a long moment, letting the emotion run its course. "I'm never taking it off. That was the most amazing feeling… I don't even have the words to explain it."
She seemed to relax at his words, her anxiety disappearing.
"It's what I feel every time I think of you, and I wanted you to know."
Harry felt his eyes fill with happy tears, but blinked them away before they fell. He felt incredibly unworthy of the gift, but would fight the world to keep it.
"I don't have the right words. This is immediately my most prized possession. Thank you."
"You're welcome," the girl answered with a smile. "But don't fret if you lose it… I can make another."
"The magic is unbelievable! How did you do it?"
"I took a page out of your mum's book. It's blood magic, and I'd probably be in trouble if the Ministry found out."
"So it serves as blackmail, too," Harry noted, finally recovering from the emotion.
"Harold James hmmph…"
Harry cut her off with their most passionate kiss of the day, willing everything he felt for her into it. His hands found the sides of her head as he pressed his lips into hers, and hers grasped at the back of his jacket as she tilted her head to deepen the kiss.
Harry fought a gasp as he felt her tongue on his lips, and quickly opened them to her. The mind blowing moment lasted a lifetime, and no time at all, before they broke apart, both breathing deeply.
Harry took a moment to settle his racing mind, trying to find something witty to say.
"I'd begun to worry about your aim," Daphne offered, beating him to it. "Weeks of kisses on the cheek, forehead, and hands... I'm glad you've dialed it in."
"Today might've been a fluke, though. I'll keep practicing."
—
Harry sat on his bed, willing himself not to touch the armband for the thousandth time in the last hour. He couldn't even put how he felt into thought, much less words. Sleep was proving impossible, as he didn't want the day to end.
A knock on his door broke into his thoughts, saving him from his reverie. He opened it with a wave of his hand, smiling as Sirius entered with two cups of tea.
"I saw your light was still on," the man said with a smile. "Figured I'd come see how you were doing."
"Better than I deserve, Pads."
"I think that's up for debate, kiddo," he countered, passing a cup to his godson. "I think you're getting exactly what you deserve."
"Nobody deserves how happy I feel. It's unfair to everyone else."
Sirius burst into laughter at his words, and Harry was shocked to see the man's eyes grow misty.
"The morning of your parents' wedding," he explained after a moment to compose himself. "James told me that what he was feeling didn't seem fair to the rest of us. You sounded so much like him just then… and when I found Marlene, I understood. I knew it so soon it was terrifying."
"I'm a long way off from that," Harry countered, though he couldn't hide his grin.
"Maybe so, but your heart clearly disagrees." He reached over and plucked Harry's new favorite photo from its place next to his bed. "And so does Daphne's smile."
"Careful with that!" the teen yelped, grabbing the frame from the older man's hands and placing it gently back to its place with a smile.
"Kiddo, you've got it bad."
"I said that to Ron, once," Harry admitted with a grin. "He told me that nothing bad would feel like this."
"He's right about that. And good for both of you for fighting above your weight class."
With a look at the girl in the photo, Harry couldn't argue with the insult. She was so far beyond him that it hurt his brain to think about.
"You owe Remus and Emily an extra present, by the way. Me and Daniel were plotting to interrupt the two of you after a couple minutes. Emily distracted her husband by pulling him to bed, and Moony by sticking me to my chair."
"Sounds like your partner needs lessons in distraction," Harry replied with a grin.
"My friend is being pursued by my cousin," Sirius answered with a grimace. "And I've lost my best ally in the fight against the union to a pretty little blonde girl."
"Then don't fight it," Harry countered wisely. "Everyone deserves to feel like I do right now."
"Okay, Romeo," Sirius offered sarcastically. "You've been in love for a month. Let's not wax poetic just yet."
"I'm not… love is…"
"Daniel said you did the same thing when he mentioned it," Sirius laughed, interrupting his sputtering. "You are a mess, Harry."
"Yeah, yeah," he replied, forcing himself to think logically. "It's just a bit overwhelming. I hadn't even said a word to her before this summer, and now she's in my head every minute of the day."
"I'm happy for you. But I'm gonna burst your bubble every time you start talking in iambic pentameter."
"You used those words correctly! I'm impressed. And I'd appreciate it. I need to figure out how to be a person with this."
"Nahhh," Sirius argued eloquently. "You need to enjoy it. There's nothing like the 'L-word,' even if you won't admit it yet."
"What about you?" Harry asked gently. "I would never push you, but I'd like to see you happy."
"I am happy. Happier than I have any right to be after everything. Maybe I'll find someone down the road, maybe I won't… the only thing that matters to me right now is getting the two of us through this nonsense headed our way."
"I'm worried it's going to make me impulsive," Harry admitted, glad to get it off his chest. "With everything with Daphne, I'm fucking terrified I'm going to act too quickly in order to get this over with, and make a mistake. All I want is to be on the other side of this, and I need you to make sure I don't lose my head."
"Then it's a good thing I'm here," Sirius answered imperiously. "We Blacks are known for our restraint."
"Ummm, Pads? The Blacks may be the most notoriously impulsive family known to man."
"I meant restraint as in knots. I'll tie you to the wall."
"I may need it," Harry laughed at the man's arrogant smile.
"I'm happy to be happy for your happiness, kiddo. You deserve to have your adolescence… to fall for the girl that's way out of your league, and pull her away for moonlit strolls. I'll protect you, and keep you grounded as best I can. And Daniel will do the same for Daphne."
"I noticed you two are on friendlier terms these days."
"He's a good guy," Sirius admitted. "Despite being a Slytherin lawyer. I wish James introduced us back in the day."
"His shitty uncle calls him 'Danny'. That's why I asked you not to."
"I wouldn't have if I'd known," the man replied in chagrin. "I know he's important to you, and I'd never put that at risk. I'll apologize."
"I don't think you need to. He took it as you meant it. Childishly."
Sirius responded by transfiguring Harry's bed into a large heart, and headed towards the door.
"Your tea has a mild sleeping draught in it, I figured you could use one. Get some sleep, you punk."
"Thanks, Pads," Harry replied with a smile before chugging the cup. "I'll see you in the morning."
"Love you, kiddo."
"Back at you, old man."
A/N: Part of me struggles with the fluff chapters, as I want to move from action to action with nothing in between. The fluff is mainly written improvisationally, and I'm never completely satisfied with it no matter how much I rewrite. But I think it's necessary to build the relationships as we go, as I've read too many stories where Harry's life depends on the love from some character he's had three written paragraphs with, and that kinda takes me out of the moment when it happens.
Thanks for reading, and hopefully I'll be able to write/post a bit quicker in the coming weeks.