A/N: Another longer chapter (yay!) but not as long as C32. I believe the story will conclude within the next 2-3 chapters which I hope to write before the birth of my daughter.

As always, thank you to those who read, comment, support, and well-wish.

Disclaimer: I own nothing. Just happy to be here!

Chapter 33

Sasha hissed and spat in agitation as Fawkes set her down on the quidditch pitch. She remembered Master telling 'The Fawkes' to, 'take Sasha and go play.'

Then…Poof!

She heard 'The Fawkes' give a trilling, mocking laugh before taking flight. Sasha watched him with half-lidded eyes, her superior mind quickly determining her next steps. Yes… Soon she would feast upon his delicious flesh!

He would be so, so delicious! Sasha was sure of it!

Shaking her head (and a few droplets of drool which hissed dramatically as they scalded the grass they fell upon), Sasha turned her attention to the nearest minion able to aid her in her quest to feast upon 'The Fawkes'.

Uncaring that a friendly game was going on above her, Sasha approached a younger, delectable looking male student who was waiting for his turn to sub into the game. Sasha knew this because she dominated 'The Quidditch' with 'The Tori'.

"Excuse me, minion," she greeted with her numerous pointed teeth displayed in a disarming smile. "I have need of your broom so that I may feast upon the flesh of The Fawkes who is currently mocking me. You may notice that he thinks himself safe up high. Unsurprising, due to his small and feeble mind."

The young student had turned a sickly pale and was shaking uncontrollably as Sasha continued to hiss and spit amiably.

"Your services shall not be without reward," Sasha promised with a bob of her head. "I shall allow you the pleasure of worshipping me for one hour."

Hearing a chittering laugh from the Phoenix, Sasha whirled to face the sky and hissed dangerously. The young male, sensing an opportunity, turned tail and ran, screaming in terror. He did not have the wherewithal to take his broom.

"Your sacrifice shall be rewarded!" Sasha called after him. "I shall seek you later for worship!"

Sasha slowly slithered up to the broom and methodically curled her body around it. She had practiced this dozens of times outside the vigilance of 'The Tori'. Now, it was time to show the results of her arduous training.

"Fufufu!" Sasha laughed as she tightened her body and the broom responded, lifting sloppily off the ground.

She heard Fawkes squawk in shock.

"At last! The feasting shall begin!" Sasha exclaimed exultantly as she began flying, slowly and wobbly, in the direction of Fawkes.

The phoenix had the good graces to humor his supposed arch-nemesis by flying in lazy circles. Sasha hissed and spat as she gave chase, and the two eventually found themselves the sole occupants of the air above the quidditch pitch as the friendly game devolved into screams of terror at seeing a flying basilisk.

Seeing it had been an actual friendly game meant there were still two bludgers in play. Two bludgers which now focused on the only remaining occupant on a broomstick: Sasha.

"Stand still, The Fawkes!" Sasha commanded in a loud hiss. "I must feast upon your flesh! Allow me to demonstrate how quick and painless your end shall be!" She turned toward an inbound bludger and raised her third eyelid. "SHAAAA!" she hissed, her eyes wide and unblinking.

The bludger paused in midair, wobbled precariously, and then plummeted lifelessly to the ground.

Fawkes chirruped, clearly impressed.

"Yes! Praise me! Wait- No! Don't praise me! The prey does not praise the predator! Now stand still so I can eat you!"

Fawkes suddenly pulled up sharply, and Sasha followed him with her gaze as best she could without losing her tentative control of her broom.

When she turned to face forward, she plowed right into the quidditch stands.

-GU-

"For the love of Morgana, please tell me you are taking that creature back with you, Potter," Minerva huffed to Harry as the two watched the chaos devolve on the quidditch pitch.

Astoria ceased her uncontrollable giggling and pouted. "I like having Sasha around!"

"I suppose I can take her," Harry chortled as he watched Sasha 'kill' another bludger. "I'm sure Fawkes will appreciate the entertainment."

"Now I won't be able to dominate quidditch," Astoria grumbled.

"I suppose you'll have to actually compete now, Miss Greengrass," Minerva sniffed. "Thank you, Potter. My job will be significantly easier without that menace prowling my halls."

Minerva stepped away to be replaced by Andromeda.

"I'm sorry, Harry," Andromeda said softly. "I made a decision for Daphne I had no right to make, and I fear I may have caused more harm than good by it."

Harry sighed heavily. What had followed Daphne's departure was a lot of questions, answers, and debates. Eventually Astoria and Aria had won out in convincing Andromeda that she had no right to tell Harry to not seek Daphne. Minerva's agreement had effectively ended the discussion, and Andromeda surrendered, clearly frustrated at herself.

"I love you, Aunt Andi," Harry replied with a warm smile. "We all make mistakes, and I respect you too damn much to not abide by your demands."

"Language, child," Andromeda chided with a chuckle.

"Khisanth once told me that phoenixes are mythical beings, beyond our understanding," Harry whispered. "Fawkes brought me here for a reason, Andi. While I wish the results could have been different, I can only trust that he knows what he's doing."

"Do you promise you'll come visit me?" Astoria asked in a meek voice as she still refused to leave Harry's side.

"I promise, Tori," Harry embraced his friend. "Besides, I have to scare off any potential suitors now that Sasha isn't here to do it for me."

Astoria balked. "Please don't!" she whined pitifully. "Boys hardly look at me because of Sasha! I'm not ugly, am I?"

Harry made a show of inspecting Astoria, who had developed into a devastatingly gorgeous woman.

"You're a solid five out of ten," he joked.

"You cad!" Astoria shrieked as she began wailing on Harry as he doubled over with laughter.

Harry said his final goodbyes, issued parting embraces, and called for Fawkes who brought an incensed Sasha back to the office. Sasha was most pleased to be leaving 'The Tori's' care, however, and curled contentedly around Harry's shoulders while Fawkes landed atop Harry's head.

Astoria giggled at the antics of the two while Harry rolled his eyes.

"I'll see you in a few weeks," Harry promised.

"You better have my sister with you, Potter," Astoria warned dangerously.

"I can't promise that, Little Lioness," Harry said gently. "But I'll do my best, okay?"

He vanished without allowing a response, whisked away in a flash of phoenix fire.

"You really think Daphne will show up for their agreed meeting?" Minerva asked skeptically.

Aria and Astoria shared a glance and nodded at each other.

"Yes," they chorused.

"I have no opinion," Andromeda said over her teacup when Minerva glanced her way. "My decisions of late have clearly not borne good fruit, so I will wisely withhold my input."

"Everything will be okay," Astoria declared confidently. "You'll see."

-GU-

"…That was before he was relocated to a reserve in eastern Asia," Khisanth explained languidly while Fleur, beet red, sat nearby. "But the sire of my current clutch… Now that was a dragon!" Khisanth chuckled, and a plume of smoke shot from her nose. "He would grab me by the haunches and-"

Harry appeared in a flash of flame with Sasha and Fawkes.

"Oh, thank the Gods!" Fleur shot up and embraced Harry. When he raised an eyebrow, she sputtered and turned a darker red, if that was possible. "I- um- er- I mean, thank- thank you for the- um, wisdom, Lady Khisanth," the normally well-spoken Veela managed to choke out over Harry's shoulder.

"I don't want to know," Harry deadpanned as Fawkes flapped his wings and returned to his perch atop the dining table.

"I was merely instructing your little bird friend in the proper mating rituals-" Khisanth began.

"Yeah, I really don't want to know," Harry interrupted, earning him a glower from the dragon lady. "Why are you even still here?"

"Master, where are we?" Sasha asked as she raised her head and glanced around. Fleur gasped in surprise as she registered the Queen of Serpents casually splayed across Harry's shoulders.

"Oh ho!" Khisanth rumbled out a laugh. "A basilisk, Whelpling? My my… You still manage to surprise."

"Greetings, Fire-Breathing She-Lizard," Sasha said magnanimously. "You may refer to me as Queen Sasha, and as my faithful minion, I command you to roast The Fawkes. As a reward, I shall allow you to feast upon a portion of his flesh with me."

"I see she sets her sights impossibly high," Khisanth observed. "You are still several millennia away from giving me orders, Little Queen. And might I suggest attempting to feast upon flesh more within your current powers."

"Dobby has snacks for Queen Sasha!" Dobby said jubilantly.

"Don't encourage her!" Harry groused.

"This pleases me, Flappy Ears!" Sasha slithered down from her perch and began attacking several pastries that were in the shape of mice and animated to move.

"You animated them?" Harry whispered to Dobby incredulously.

Dobby preened and straightened his coat. "Yes, Master Harry! It encourages Queen Sasha to eat…"

"SHAAA!"

One of the pastries exploded as if detonated from within. Dobby snapped his fingers to clean up the mess.

"…and hunt," Dobby finished.

"Fire-Breathing She-Lizard, give Flappy Ears a reward befitting his brilliance!" Sasha called.

Khisanth snorted and returned to her seat.

"What is she saying?" Fleur hissed into Harry's ear.

"She's instructing Khisanth to reward Dobby," Harry replied dismissively.

"SHAAA!"

Another pastry exploded hideously.

"Instructing?" Fleur asked in a strained tone.

"Oh, yes, she believes she is the top of the food chain," Harry chuckled.

"And she would be, if she were a few thousand years older," Khisanth assured.

"Are you ready to go home, Fleur?" Harry looked over his shoulder at his Veela friend who was slightly pale, yet flushed, and clearly flabbergasted.

"I- um- suppose," Fleur stammered before shaking her head. "Where did you go, Harry?"

Fawkes squawked from his table.

"Behold my power, The Fawkes! SHAAA!"

The last pastry shuddered, ceased moving, and then exploded after a five second delay.

"The sun was in my eyes!" Sasha protested.

"Fawkes thought it best if we visited Daphne," Harry explained.

"Non!" Fleur gasped.

"Yes, it was quite an ordeal," Harry sighed. "Took me back to Hogwarts. Straight to Minerva's office."

"Flappy Ears! I have run out of food! I demand sustenance lest I feast upon The Fawkes!"

"Dobby, Sasha is still hungry," Harry advised. The house-elf led the basilisk into the kitchen, where she could explode pastries to her heart's content.

"Does that mean Daphne will not be meeting you tonight?" Fleur asked sadly.

"I doubt she will, Fleur," Harry deposited himself into a nearby chair. "She was really worked up by it all."

Fleur frowned. "That is…disappointing, Harry."

Harry groaned and looked up at the ceiling. "Just once, I wish something could fall my way."

"Your flower has not refused your rendezvous, has she, Whelpling?" Khisanth asked, unusually pensive.

"No, and she did not indicate that she was not going to show up," Harry replied.

"Then perhaps it would be prudent to prepare as if she was?" Khisanth offered before crinkling up her nose. "And bathe while you are at it. It is basic etiquette to be clean before bedding-"

"I think I'll be going now," Fleur squeaked. She gave Harry a parting hug and hurried over to Fawkes who whisked her away in a flash of phoenix fire.

Khisanth snorted, chuckled lowly, and then full out laughed. Harry watched her wryly before shaking his head in disbelief.

"Did you break my Veela friend?"

"She is very fun to tease," Khisanth admitted. "It would appear the mating practices of my kind are a tad…risqué for the little bird."

"Still not going to tell me what you're here for?"

"I believe you already know, Whelpling."

"You're bored because your clutch has yet to hatch, and you wanted to see your favorite Whelpling."

Khisanth sniffed haughtily. "You presume much."

"I presume correctly," Harry quipped as he made his way to his bedroom. "You're always welcome, Khisanth. Please stay out of the way if Daphne decides to show up," he called as he started up the shower. "Maybe we can go visit Sparky or go on a trip later this week."

"That sounds appealing," Khisanth replied loudly. "I shall converse with your ancestors for the time being."

Harry, currently washing his hair, didn't hear her.

Khisanth vanished into an adjacent bedroom where the portraits of Arcturus, Salazar, and Rowena resided.

-GU-

- Five Minutes Later -

Daphne stood outside the door to the instructed address. Her mind kept reminding her about the lack of wisdom and intelligence of her decision to still meet Harry tonight so they could talk. Her heart, however, demanded that she try one last time to regain what had been lost.

With no small amount of trepidation, Daphne raised her hand and knocked three times on the door.

And it opened.

"Mistress Daffy!" Dobby squealed jubilantly before wrapping himself around her legs. "Dobby is so happy to see you!"

"H-Hi Dobby," Daphne greeted and gently reached down to pat his head.

"Come!" Dobby instructed. "Master Harry is getting ready and will be out shortly. Dobby has made a feast of snacks! What can Dobby get you?"

"Um, tea?" Daphne asked more than stated, nearly tripping over the house-elf as he prattled on about how happy he was. She found herself deposited in a plushy chair before Dobby vanished into what she could only assume was the kitchen. Daphne nervously investigated her surroundings while she waited.

The apartment had clearly been magically expanded, as there were far more doors than appropriate – most currently closed – and the living room alone was the size of her entire apartment. A knocking sound drew her attention to the right, where a familiar phoenix was staring intently at a parchment, occasionally pecking it before continuing to study.

She blinked and Fawkes must have noticed her because he turned his head, gave a greeting chirrup, and returned to, well, whatever it was he was doing.

Daphne waved weakly. "Hi, Fawkes," she said in a raspy voice.

An odd whooshing noise drew her attention to the left, where a flapping pastry – which looked like it was in the shape of a large bird – attempted to escape the stalking basilisk who hissed dramatically. Daphne gasped as the pastry exploded in a shower of crumbs and filling. She observed Sasha turn toward Fawkes and hiss something which Daphne could only assume was some form of threat or gloating.

Fawkes squawked once and ignored her, which clearly incensed Sasha until she noticed Daphne nearby. The basilisk slithered over and climbed the chair, coiling in Daphne's lap. She turned her head to Daphne, her tongue flicking out in greeting.

"Greetings, Mistress!" Sasha hissed. "I trust you were suitably impressed by my demonstration."

"H-Hi, Sasha," Daphne greeted as she hesitantly rubbed Sasha's snout. She had no idea what the basilisk was saying, but the contented purr must have meant that Sasha approved of Daphne's ministrations.

Dobby returned with a cup of tea and some scones which Daphne accepted gratefully and placed atop a nearby side table. The house-elf disappeared back into the kitchen. Daphne was mid-sip when she trembled and nearly spilled her tea as an agitated grunt emanated from one of the few open doors she could see.

"For the love of Merlin!" Harry groused as he exited his bedroom. "Dobby! There are crumbs and fillings all over the bedroom floor! How many of those pastries did you make? I swear Sasha isn't eating any of them!"

"That's not true, Master!" Sasha wailed.

"And why are some of them shaped like phoenixes?" Harry hollered as he placed his hands on his hips, his back to Daphne.

"Dobby was indulging in creative liberties!" the house-elf protested with a sheepish smile.

"Well, I suppose if it keeps her occupied…" Harry muttered, shaking his head. "Oh, have you seen my gray shirt, Dobby?"

"Master has many gray shirts," Dobby replied innocently.

"The button down one," Harry mimed.

"It is in your closet, Master."

Harry shook his head. "I scoured my closet top to bottom."

"Perhaps Master should purchase glasses…" Dobby suggested with a challenging glint in his wide, tennis ball sized eyes.

Daphne watched the continued banter in a numb fascination, her eyes roving over Harry's bare torso. He was toned, built, and surprisingly scar free, which caused her inquisitive nature to immediately spike. She felt a faint blush dust her cheeks as she continued to allow her eyes to freely roam his back, appreciating the way his muscles and tendons flexed as he moved his arms while gesticulating to Dobby.

It didn't dawn on her she was ogling Harry until he suddenly spun on his heel; those enchanting emerald green eyes wide with surprise as he realized he had an audience. Daphne almost dropped her tea when she got a full view of his front. It was only Sasha in her lap that allowed her to retain her faculties.

Spilling scalding hot tea on a basilisk would likely yield lethal results.

Harry opened and closed his mouth several times before rounding on Dobby. He choked out a strangled growling, garble sound, and then swiftly vanished back into his bedroom. Dobby shot Daphne a mischievous wink before whistling happily as he returned to the kitchen.

Daphne shakily set her cup down and did all she could to control her rising blush.

Definitely still attracted to him… she hummed mentally.

-GU-

Potter Luck is a curse, I swear, Harry seethed inwardly as he hurriedly donned the exact shirt he had sworn was not in his closet.

Maybe he did need glasses…

Harry took a final glance at his appearance in the mirror and controlled his breathing, steeling himself. He was not going to mess this up. Daphne was here, to his pleasant surprise, and he needed to be calm, collected, focused, and engaging.

All of that went out the window as he stepped on the remnants of a phoenix-shaped pastry.

-GU-

- Three Minutes Later –

Harry emerged from his bedroom with a neutral expression and took a seat across from Daphne, offering her a half-smile as she fumbled to set her tea down with obviously shaking hands. It pained him that she was so nervous by his presence.

Or she is still rattled from seeing me shirtless, which would be a nice change of pace… Harry told himself before banishing away those thoughts.

He watched her fidget nervously by idly petting Sasha and tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. She was wearing plain grey robes, which Harry assumed was her general working attire. While they did nothing to accentuate her figure or curves, Harry still found his breath being taken away by Daphne's beauty.

"Hi, Daphne," Harry said, a tad of that breathlessness bleeding into his tone.

Daphne's hand paused mis-stroke on Sasha's snout, causing the basilisk to bump her palm with the crown of her snout. Daphne giggled so quietly Harry almost didn't hear it and resumed her ministrations.

"Hello, Harry," she greeted in a melodic, soft voice.

Harry's mind went blank briefly and he cleared his throat. "Thank you for coming."

She nodded. "You said you wanted to talk."

Harry hesitated while she patiently waited. Fawkes continued pecking away at his latest math worksheet, and Harry briefly debated sending the phoenix and basilisk away. He wanted to talk. There was much to talk about. He just didn't know where to begin.

"Did you really mean it?"

The whispered question hung in the air, and Harry wracked his mind to ascertain what Daphne was referencing.

"You still love me?"

Harry gave an uncertain nod. "Yes," he replied in a strained tone. "I believe I still do."

She hummed in thought.

"I don't believe I ever stopped loving you," she admitted softly. "I told myself I shouldn't. I even convinced myself I should let you go," she snorted derisively.

Harry nervously licked his lips. "Because the Hallows are blood artifacts of the Peverell line, Dumbledore was able to use the Elder Wand to tamper with my family magic," he explained. "I thought that my feelings for you were manufactured…" he trailed off in silence for several moments. "I have since learned that, while the obsession was caused by Dumbledore's tampering, my feelings – my love – was genuine."

Daphne shakily grabbed her tea and took a sip, taking her time as she processed Harry's words.

"It hurt, hearing that you had been in contact with Andi and Tonks," she said after resetting her cup down. "I wish you would have at least spoken with Tori-" she paused, clearly struggling to proceed. "She misses you terribly."

Harry flinched as if struck.

"I wish you would have sought me out," Daphne whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "But maybe it was better that you didn't. Andi-"

"Was wrong," Harry interrupted firmly. "As was I, Daphne." He waited until she looked up at him with watery eyes. "I should have sought you out the moment I learned the truth in Peverell castle. I should have never cut ties with you and Astoria. I should have never abandoned my family, even though I believed them safe within the Fidelius."

He rubbed his forehead and frowned.

"I'm sorry for hurting you, Daphne," he continued huskily. "When I left, I just wanted to get away. Until you came into my life, all I had ever known was pain-" he choked and swallowed heavily. "When everything happened, I snapped, and I wanted to be free. Free from manipulations, prophecies…"

"Free from pain," Daphne nodded knowingly, a distant look in her eyes.

"Yeah," Harry grunted. "I didn't stop to think about what my leaving would do to you. I will never regret leaving Britain to deal with the Dark Lord. I made sure, to the best of my ability, that my family was protected and safe when I did. I made sure Tori was safe with Sasha."

He smiled at the basilisk who was half-asleep in Daphne's lap.

"She's still a child, but she would die for either of you," Harry said assuredly. "I knew Tori was safe."

He looked up at Daphne, his own eyes watery. "By proxy, I offered you a small modicum of protection through Sasha, but I won't lie and say that was intentional. When I left, I gave you no thought."

"I deserved it-"

"You didn't!" Harry barked harshly, causing Daphne to jump and stir Sasha awake. He winced. "I'm sorry!" he said hastily. "I didn't mean to scare you." He clenched his fist and brought it up to his mouth before pounding it weakly on his armrest. "Damn it!" he swore in frustration. "Why do I only seem to be able to hurt you?"

Daphne released a watery giggle. "I lost count of how many times I asked myself that in regard to you."

"I assure you we are not cursed," Harry said solemnly. "I investigated it thoroughly and ran numerous tests. It's just…"

"Fate?"

Harry shook his head and huffed. "What happened wasn't your fault, Daphne. What they did to you – to us – was neither of our faults."

"I could have fought-"

"You did fight," Harry interjected. "I've replayed the memories over and over in my head. I missed the signs of your struggle. You did all you could, and I missed it."

"Some of the things I said…" Daphne began, "they were my words and my words alone…"

"Your mind was being rewired, your emotions tampered with," Harry assuaged her concern. "I should have given you a chance to explain." He offered her a sad smile. "Or maybe even offered to take you with me."

"I would have gone with you," Daphne mumbled without hesitation.

The two shared a small smile and Harry watched Daphne swipe her cheeks with her palm. His heart throbbed knowing she was still hurting.

"Circe, I feel like I'm at such a disadvantage," Daphne eventually muttered.

"What do you mean?"

"You know what I've faced these last three years," Daphne explained softly. "…At least, I think you do. But I know nothing about what you have been doing."

Harry leaned back in his chair. "I apologize. It's not that I'm unwilling to share…" He trailed off awkwardly. "My struggles these last three years have been paltry when compared to yours."

"I don't think it a good idea for us to compare pain, Harry," Daphne rebuked gently. "If you've enjoyed your time away, then I am truly happy for you."

"I spent the first few months doing things I never got to do," Harry replied after some time to reflect. "Theme parks, cruises, seeing nature… It was both liberating and exhilarating."

Daphne half-smiled and motioned for him to continue.

"I met a Thunderbird," Harry revealed.

Daphne's eyes widened.

"I call him Sparky, and he's buddies with Fawkes."

The phoenix squawked in affirmation.

Harry chuckled. "Over time, I discovered Ravenclaw castle, which eventually led to me discovering Peverell castle with Sparky and-"

A door opened suddenly, and Harry watched Daphne slump into her seat defeatedly as Khisanth chose to make her presence known at the most inopportune time. Behind her floated the three portraits, all in an animated discussion about Arthurian lore, which Khisanth was more than willing to indulge.

"Khisanth," Harry called while simultaneously introducing her. He made sure to lock Daphne's gorgeous eyes with his own. "Daphne, this is Khisanth, the dragon from the first task."

Daphne's mouth formed a large 'O' as she gawked and stared in wide-eyed awe at the woman.

"In the flesh," Khisanth purred, striking an alluring pose, and smiling predatorily. "I see your flower showed after all, Whelpling."

Daphne blinked in confusion.

"Hello, Daphne dear," Rowena called. "It is a pleasure to finally meet."

Daphne waved haltingly before she noticed Harry glaring pointedly at the foursome. Khisanth appeared to stare at him challengingly before she snorted, sending a small plume of smoke from her nostrils.

"…As I was saying," Khisanth continued, waving her hand lazily as she and the portraits retreated to their room.

"Sorry about her," Harry sighed in exasperation. "She pretty much does as she pleases, and I'm not stupid enough to tell her otherwise."

Daphne nodded numbly.

"So, yeah, I uncovered Peverell castle with the help of Khisanth and Sparky," Harry repeated sheepishly. "That's where I learned about the cloak…"

Daphne nodded again, and the two fell into an uneasy silence.

"What about your scars?" Daphne eventually questioned.

"You mean the ones from…him?"

Daphne grimaced. "Yes."

"I traveled to Germany, where I engaged with a Healer who combined magical and muggle techniques. He specialized in curse scars and was able to remove them from me." Harry slowly pulled up his sleeve, showing the circular scar from the basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets.

"Couldn't do anything about that one, though," he shook his head. "Seems basilisk venom leaves irreparable scar damage."

Harry knew Daphne was going to apologize again for the past. He held up a hand to forestall her.

"Can we both agree that we're sorry, regret what happened, and look forward?" he asked hopefully.

"Look forward?" she repeated nervously.

"We both have feelings for each other," Harry stated plainly. "We're both lonely."

Daphne's lower lip trembled.

"Go on a date with me?" Harry prompted.

"Wh- What?" Daphne squeaked.

"Go on a date with me," Harry repeated, only this time it wasn't a question.

"H- Harry," Daphne stammered. "A- Are you serious?"

Harry laughed and shook his head. "Sirius was my Godfather, I'm Harry." He sighed wistfully. "I never thought I'd miss hearing him say that lame joke."

"I-"

"Daph," Harry locked her eyes with his own. He stared at her intently. "We could sit here all-night reflecting on the past; what happened, what was said, what we regret…" He trailed off and held her gaze. "Or…" he said slowly. "We can start over, in a country where there's no Boy-Who-Lived, no Dark Lords, no manipulating old men…" He smiled encouragingly. "There is a Harry Potter and a Daphne Greengrass, though."

He watched tears spill from her eyes.

"Harry still has feelings for Daphne," he whispered as he stood and approached her. "Daphne still has feelings for Harry," he tenderly grabbed the hand that she had been using to stroke Sasha. "Let's explore those feelings by going on a date," he lifted her limp hand to his lips and gently kissed her knuckles.

"I-" Daphne swallowed. "I think I'd like that," she choked out.

Harry reverently thumbed the tears on her cheeks away, smiling as she unconsciously leaned into his touch.

"When?"

"I'm off all week," Daphne exhaled a contented sigh, her eyes closed.

"Tomorrow," Harry said firmly. "Are you an early riser?"

"Yes," Daphne trembled, and Harry frowned as he watched her slowly open her eyes; she wore a haunted look. "I don't sleep much anymore."

"Nightmares?" Harry asked knowingly.

She nodded and Harry gently tugged her hand. She followed the tug, allowing him to pull her to her feet and into his arms. Sasha slithered away, lest she be unceremoniously deposited on the floor. Harry felt as if all tension left his body when he finally had Daphne in his arms again.

"Me too," he choked, his own happy tears threatening to spill.

He felt Daphne's shoulders heave and slowly brought his hand up to run through her golden blonde hair that smelled just as he remembered: strawberries and lemons.

"Merlin, I've missed you far more than I imagined," Harry admitted huskily as he kissed the crown of her head. He felt Daphne tighten her arms around him and was content to hold her tightly in his arms while she had a good cry.

What felt like hours later, the two remained standing in the room, still holding one another and content to enjoy each other's presence. Reluctantly, Daphne detached from Harry and smiled tremulously up at him.

"I've missed you too," she whispered.

"Breakfast at six?" Harry posited.

"Okay," Daphne smiled, and for the first time since he had seen her, it reached her eyes.

"You are welcome to stay here," Harry offered. "But no pressure."

"Thank you, Harry," Daphne said graciously. "But I would prefer to go home."

"You can apparate from here," he said. "The wards will not prevent you."

She took a couple steps away from him. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Miss Greengrass," Harry returned softly.

Daphne turned on her heel and vanished with a crack!

-GU-

November 1, 1998 (Harry's Apartment – Early Morning)

Harry sipped at the morning cup of coffee Dobby had graciously prepared him while eagerly awaiting Daphne. He had slept surprisingly well once he fell asleep. A mixture of anxiety and excitement had kept him up far later than he intended, hence the pick-me-up in a pre-breakfast coffee.

He stood at the sound of a gentle knock on the front door, unconsciously smoothing his plain black long-sleeved shirt, complimented by blue jeans and tennis shoes. Daphne, radiant Daphne, stood on the other side of the door, a weary smile lighting up her face and striking Harry with its beauty.

Harry nervously cleared his throat and stood to the side, beckoning Daphne to enter.

"Good morning," Harry greeted warmly. "You look radiant, Daph."

And she did, wearing a white blouse, forest green jumper, blue jeans, and tennis shoes. Her golden blonde hair was pulled back in a high ponytail, and she wore a light dusting of makeup that enhanced her natural beauty.

Daphne blushed lightly and bit her lower lip. "Thank you, Harry. You look quite handsome yourself."

Harry gently shut his front door once Daphne cleared the threshold. "Coffee?"

"Tea please," Daphne requested.

The two entered the kitchen where Dobby appeared to have anticipated Daphne's request and passed her a steaming cup of tea. Daphne took a sip before noticing Fawkes perched atop the kitchen counter. Harry watched Daphne approach the phoenix tentatively and slowly rub his plumage.

A gasp escaped her when she noted several feathers fall from her touch. Harry spoke swiftly to assuage her fears.

"He's close to a burning day. It's normal for him to molt."

Daphne sighed in relief. "Is that why he looks so tired?"

Fawkes chirruped weakly and nuzzled Daphne's hand. His usual vigor was clearly diminished.

"Yes," Harry answered. "Fawkes will be back to normal within forty-eight hours. Isn't that right, buddy?"

Fawkes squawked weakly.

"We'll travel by apparation today," Harry explained softly to Daphne as he patted Fawkes atop the head fondly.

"Just us?" Daphne asked, and Harry caught the hopeful tone in the question.

"Just us," Harry repeated solemnly. "Khisanth sleeps in, and while she may be peeved at not being included, she'll get over it. Dobby can take care of her needs for the time being." He checked his surroundings before chuckling wryly. "We'll also leave Sasha behind to be entertained by Fawkes and Dobby."

Daphne nodded and chewed her lip. "Aren't you worried about Sasha eating Fawkes?"

Harry snorted and waved away the concern good naturedly. "Nah, Fawkes can take care of himself, even on a burning day."

Fawkes chirped, but it sounded more like a croak, and nodded fervently.

"Dobby will take care of Queen Sasha and Mister Fawkes, Mistress Daffy!" Dobby promised jubilantly.

"See? Nothing to worry about," Harry shot Daphne a lop-sided smile. "Hungry?"

Daphne's stomach rumbled loudly, much to her embarrassment. Harry chuckled and gently grabbed her hand, slowly threading his fingers through hers. She looked down at their hands then up at him questioningly.

"Side-along apparation," Harry explained in response.

Daphne shot him a nervous smile and brief nod. Harry turned on his heel and the two vanished without a sound.

-GU-

I really need to ask him where we are, Daphne reminded herself as she observed the quaint diner he had apparated them to.

"So, what do you do for fun?" Harry asked before popping a forkful of hashbrowns into his mouth.

She nervously fiddled with her scrambled eggs as she contemplated his question. What did she do for fun outside of work? She involuntarily winced as she realized she didn't quite have an answer to the question, which did not go unnoticed.

"I'm sorry if that's too personal a question," Harry said after taking a drink of water.

"N-No," Daphne stammered embarrassedly. "It's just…" she sighed defeatedly. "I don't do anything for fun," she admitted sheepishly.

Harry blinked.

"I mainly work, go home, sleep, and then go back to work," Daphne mumbled.

"What about weekends?" Harry prompted.

"Sometimes I see Astoria, Andi, mum, Tonks, or Minerva," Daphne shrugged. "I put that more in the visitation category than fun, although it is enjoyable to see them."

Harry hummed thoughtfully and pointed at her with his fork. "You cook for yourself on weeknights?"

"Sometimes," Daphne nodded. "I go out when I work late though…which is often. Although Gringotts has been harping on me to reduce my hours." She huffed and folded her arms, unwittingly dislodging a few strands of hair free. "Gringotts really takes care of us," she said sincerely, "but I wish they would just allow me to work as I please."

Harry chuckled and grinned at her, causing a warm feeling to swell in her stomach. "Complaining about your benefits, Daph?"

"No," she stated petulantly, frowning.

"So those nights you are forced home early," Harry continued thoughtfully. "I'm sure there are times you're not quite ready for bed, and you've ate out…" he trailed off, looking at her expectantly. She teased him by playing coy, causing him to roll his eyes and finish the unasked question. "What do you do?"

Her teasing smirk faltered, and she nervously tucked the two stray strands of hair behind her ear. "I make myself a cup of hot chocolate and stare at the fireplace," she admitted softly.

Daphne dared not look up, fearing judgement or pity; she wasn't sure she could handle either being expressed by him. Nervously, she peeked at him from behind her eyelashes, and nearly knocked over her orange juice when she involuntarily jerked in surprise at the raw compassion he was regarding her with.

"I used to do that too," he said gently. "Sometimes I would think about Sirius…"

Daphne nodded.

"…And you," he said unexpectedly.

Daphne felt her lower lip tremble and took a moment to steady her emotions before replying.

"Most nights, I think about you," she whispered. "About us."

Harry nodded understandingly and the two sat in a semi-awkward silence as they finished their respective meals. Daphne found herself delighted at the food and opted to finish her waffle with a healthy dose of syrup. Her sweet tooth from her Hogwarts days had followed her into adulthood, it seemed.

"Last Christmas was the last time I stared in the fire," Harry revealed after finishing his meal and setting his napkin atop his plate. He took a generous swig of his remaining water.

"Were you drinking hot chocolate?" Daphne found herself asking.

Harry looked pensive before nodding. "Yes…Yes! I was!"

"I also stared in the fire and drank hot chocolate that evening," Daphne said with a light giggle.

Harry chuckled and quickly sobered, making Daphne wonder if she'd said something wrong. She went to apologize but he began speaking.

"That night was when I decided to go see the graves of my parents," Harry said somberly. "Then I went to…where it all happened…" He numbly finished the last of his water, his eyes carrying a faraway gleam. "The blood wards recognized me, and I saw things that hadn't been taken."

Daphne found herself stricken by the haunted expression he wore.

"The temptation to use the Stone," he croaked, his voice giving out. "It was nearly unbearable. I wanted to see them, Daph… Sirius, Mum, Dad…" his voice cracked, and Daphne reached for his hand to offer comfort and sympathy. "I wanted to ask them if-" his voice hitched, and he swallowed heavily. "If they were proud of me. Of what I'd done…"

Daphne waited for him to continue, but all he did was slowly reach for her hand and hold it limply with his own. She found her thumb absently tracing his palm.

"Did you?" she questioned cautiously.

Harry shook his head, and the fog of memory appeared to lift from his posture. "No. Never," he declared adamantly. "I fear what would occur should I use the Stone for selfish purposes."

Daphne nodded, content to let him speak on his own terms. He eventually drew a deep breath, and she admired how his shirt stretched against his toned shoulders and chest. She was thankful he was staring blankly at the table instead of observing the blush she knew was crawling up her neck.

"I told Fawkes to take me far away," Harry continued. "And he did. Far, far away."

Daphne wet her lips with her tongue, debating her next words. It was comforting, in a morbid, melancholy sense, to know they both were doing the same thing Christmas evening. The atmosphere was somber, and Daphne found herself wanting to change it desperately, to bring some levity into their 'date'.

Today was about looking forward, not backward.

"Do you like your job?" Harry asked seemingly out of the blue, detaching Daphne from her musings.

"I love it," Daphne said passionately. "It's challenging, but I'm good at it – potentially the best, according to my employers."

Harry smiled, his mood improving at hearing the passion in her voice. "What are you working on right now?"

Daphne spent the next hour animatedly talking about her current project, her patents, her studies, and her general love of curse breaking for Gringotts America. Harry listened intently, his eyes never leaving hers, his questions always engaging and pushing her to delve deeper into her thoughts and passions.

Daphne couldn't help but feel warm and fuzzy once she ran out of things to talk about regarding her job. She desperately wanted to reciprocate, to see the same passion realized and expressed by Harry.

"What about you, Harry?" Daphne pressed, her tone slightly breathless from an hour of non-stop talking. "What have you been working on? Surely your time hasn't been just sightseeing and experiencing new things?"

Harry chuckled and grinned. "My Ravenclaw blood would never allow me to be idle for long," he began. "My ancestors obviously pushed me to discover their ancient abodes. Those were adventures that would take all day to explain, but their completion resulted in me finding myself with vast knowledge of the ancients."

He checked his watch for some reason and pursed his lips before returning to the conversation. Daphne rightly assumed it was because he had additional plans for their date but had left lots of dead time for them to engage in conversation.

"Most recently I've been working on my own version of the Room of Requirement. Having Rowena to help has simplified the task greatly, as her portrait remembers much of the Charms and Runework that was put into creating the one at Hogwarts. Mine doesn't quite function the same way, but it does allow me to freely practice magic and the various spells I have discovered from the respective Ravenclaw, Slytherin, and Peverell libraries."

"Ah, so you do still use magic," Daphne teased playfully.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Well, it's just I don't recall you having used any magic since I've seen you," Daphne hummed thoughtfully. "You seem to like making tea and coffee the muggle way, or let Dobby do those things for you."

Harry grunted. "Dobby usually pitches a fit if he doesn't get to take care of me."

"I suppose I'll believe it when I see it," Daphne smirked.

Harry rolled his eyes. "Fine. Wednesday. You'll see."

"Oh, confident there will be another date?" Daphne challenged with no malice in her tone.

Harry faltered, clearly off-kilter. "Well yes- I mean- no! I mean- if you want there to be," he stammered.

Daphne found herself covering her mouth with her hand as her shoulders shook with laughter at his discomfort. It was fun teasing him. Harry mock-scowled and stood, offering Daphne his hand. She took it gracefully and allowed him to lead her out of the diner.

"Where are we going next?" she asked.

"To meet a dear friend," Harry answered with a wistful smile. "She's going to tear into me, mind you. I haven't seen her in quite some time. Don't be unnerved if she recognizes you right away," he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. "She's very good at getting information out of me."

"Who is she?" Daphne cocked her head to the side as they continued walking down a sidewalk.

"She's, uh, the lady who gives me, er…" he trailed off, mumbling something incoherently.

"Huh?" Daphne was surprised to see Harry blushing profusely.

"Look, early on, Fleur and I spent quite a bit of time together," Harry blurted out suddenly, causing Daphne's eyes to widen in surprise. "Fleur is a diva, you know, and while she endured certain experiences for my sake, I always had to repay her in some way."

"Harry," Daphne patted his arm reassuringly with her free hand, her other still gently melded with his. "It's okay. I don't have a problem with you and Fleur being close."

"It's not that!" Harry defended. "It's just, Yen – my friend – she does pedicures. I only went to those because Fleur made me!"

Daphne thought Harry was protesting a bit too much but decided to let him off the hook. She wasn't going to say no to a pedicure!

"So…We're going to get pedicures?" she asked hopefully.

Harry nodded dumbly, exhaling in relief for some reason.

Daphne squeezed his hand and rewarded him with a full smile. "That sounds lovely."

As Harry led her into a nearby alley to side-along apparate to their next destination, Daphne secreted a mischievous smile away. She would uncover what made Harry so rattled about getting a pedicure in due time. He was hiding something; Daphne was sure of it.

If it was what she suspected, then she would thoroughly enjoy teasing him for it.

…And enjoying going to many more pedicures in the future.

-GU-

(Harry's Apartment – Morning)

Sasha lazily slithered into the kitchen, intent on demanding food from Flappy Ears. Her nap had ended, and the Fire-Breathing She-Lizard still slumbered. While Sasha was peeved that her minion would dare to sleep longer than herself, she was content to allow it this time.

After all, she did have some semblance of self-preservation.

Her entry into the kitchen went unnoticed, as Flappy Ears was apparently elsewhere. Her tongue flicked out in agitation as she looked for delicious pastries to explode.

Sasha liked exploding the ones that looked like 'The Fawkes'.

To her annoyance, there were none. There was, however, a 'The Fawkes' sitting atop the kitchen countertop, breathing erratically and…molting? Her prey looked hideous!

…And delicious.

…And weak.

…And distracted.

Sasha slithered across the floor with all her stealthy glory, absolutely positive there was no conceivable way 'The Fawkes' could see her. Had she been looking up, she would have seen Fawkes cock his head to the side quizzically at her approach. Sasha silently ascended the counter before pooling herself elegantly into a coil just behind the wheezing phoenix.

Fufufu! Sasha laughed internally (completely oblivious to the fact that she had hissed her evil laugh out loud).

The time of feasting is at hand at last! Sasha told herself exultantly (again, not realizing she was speaking out loud).

Her tongue flicked out to alert 'The Fawkes' to her presence. It was a classic tactic Sasha had employed numerous times on Flappy Ear's pastries.

It was also yummy because her tongue got to taste the sugary confections…but Sasha banished that errant thought away in lieu of savoring her imminent victory.

Fawkes had the good nature to lazily turn his head to peek over his wing.

The time was at hand! The time to feed on 'The Fawkes'!

"SHAAA!" Sasha hissed, her third eyelid rising in glorious, amazing, victorious elegance.

Fawkes squawked and exploded in a small puff of flame.

"Yes! At last! The Fawkes has been properly cooked! And now I shall feast upon his delicious flesh and not share any with the Fire-Breathing She-Lizard because she chose to laze around in bed instead of aiding me on my quest to- to…"

Sasha trailed off on her monologue as she regarded the ugly little bird cheerily flapping his wings and chirruping up at her.

She blinked in confusion.

"What is this?" Sasha hissed. "You are not The Fawkes!"

Her tongue flicked out to taste the odd creature. Sasha recoiled as if burnt.

"Bleh!" she spat, a little of her venom landing on the countertop and beginning to sizzle small holes. Sasha winced. Master would be angry if she ruined his things. She uncoiled herself and curled around the strange, tiny, bird-like, nasty creature.

"What is this?" Sasha repeated, wondering aloud to no one in particular. "You cannot be The Fawkes because you are disgusting!" she proclaimed adamantly. "And The Fawkes is delicious! I know it!"

She muttered – er, hissed and spat – in agitation to herself as she pondered this conundrum of epic – er, tiny – proportions. She had easily snuck up on 'The Fawkes' and cooked him with extreme prejudice. This was an immutable fact. Yet why was he so tiny and- and icky?!

A brilliant and perfectly logical idea ran through Sasha's magnificent brain. She slithered to the living room table and patiently grabbed a parchment which contained 'The Math' questions. This would tell Sasha if the icky creature was truly her delicious arch-nemesis.

Returning to the kitchen, she lowered the parchment before the tiny avian and stared at it expectantly. Baby-Fawkes attempted to stand, wobbled cutely, and fell over, flapping his wings happily.

"You will answer the first question, tiny Not-The Fawkes!" Sasha instructed, tapping the parchment with her snout.

Baby-Fawkes slowly rolled back to his feet and hopped atop the parchment. He chirruped several times before pecking twice. Sasha's eyes narrowed dangerously.

1x + 1 was indeed 2…

"This is an outrage!" Sasha bellowed. "Was it because you were weak and frail and unaware of my presence that you do not taste delicious and are so small and so ugly and- and- NOT The Fawkes?!"

Her superior intellect was greatly vexed, and Sasha made her displeasure known for several minutes until she heard Flappy Ears enter, humming contentedly to himself.

"Oh! Dobby sees Mister Fawkes has had his burning day!" Dobby observed before frowning. "Master Harry has told Queen Sasha she cannot eat Mister Fawkes!" he scolded the basilisk.

"Explain to me what this burning day is," Sasha commanded imperiously to Dobby. "I have never heard of such a thing! The Fawkes fell to my power! I am sure of it! And I cooked him properly! I am sure of it!" She hesitated. "Unless the sun was in my eyes once more… Of course! That was it! The sun was in my eyes!"

Dobby blinked, not understanding a word Sasha was saying. Instead, he gently gathered Fawkes in his hands and waltzed out of the kitchen. Fawkes chirruped playfully, his wings flapping as Sasha continued to expound on her running theory that the sun had somehow interfered with her killing blow.

"Flappy Ears, I demand you eliminate all chances of the sun obstructing my…" she looked around blankly. "Flappy Ears! I hunger!"

Sasha grumbled (hissed and spat) as she slithered out of the kitchen, unaware of the audience that had been privy to the entire exchange, although only one of them could understand the basilisk.

"Merlin's soggy underwear," Salazar muttered disgustedly. "I'm convinced that basilisk is a defect. She's daft, I tell you!"

He had been quietly translating Sasha's words the entire time to Arcturus and Rowena.

Arcturus finally allowed himself to bellow out a laugh once Sasha had left.

"I do so love to see the burning day," Rowena said thoughtfully. "Although, witnessing a basilisk advance its timeline was fascinating. It's clear her kind have no understanding of that function on phoenixes."

"No," Salazar deadpanned. "She's just daft. Defective, I tell you!"

Rowena giggled while Salazar grumbled about how the supposed 'Queen of Serpents' should be renamed 'Queen Idiot'. Arcturus continued to try – and fail – to choke back his guffaws.

-GU-

(Wicked Nail & Spa – Somewhere in America – Noon)

Daphne hesitated as they approached an obvious muggle establishment.

"Everything okay, Daph?" she heard Harry ask, a hint of concern lacing his tone.

"This is a muggle nail salon," Daphne said, then mentally kicked herself for stating the obvious.

"Oh, I probably should have mentioned Yen was a muggle," Harry shrugged nonchalantly, a lopsided grin on his face.

Daphne blinked in confusion. "But you said you took Fleur to get pedicures?"

"And I do," Harry nodded toward the building. "Here."

Now that was a surprise to Daphne. Fleur Delacour the Veela went to a muggle establishment to get pampered? Then again, was that really such a surprise? Harry clearly avoided the magical world, regardless of the country…

"They must be really good then," Daphne hummed. "If Fleur approves, that is."

"She does," Harry gently tugged her hand, and Daphne allowed herself to be pulled forward. "I can't vouch for how good they are, as I've only ever come here with Fleur."

Daphne quirked an eyebrow when a beam of sunlight caught Harry just right, allowing her to observe he was sweating.

"Are you sweating?"

"What?" Harry laughed, but it sounded forced in her ears. "No! I'm-"

"POTTER!" a shrill voice squealed as the door was jerked open and Daphne found herself pulled inside by proxy as Harry was accosted by two dainty, perfectly manicured hands.

Daphne gawked at the sheer volume of color the establishment offered, and all the muggle amenities she was quite unfamiliar with. The establishment was sparsely populated at this hour, which Daphne was unsure was normal. Truth be told, she didn't visit establishments like this, well, ever.

Her attention was drawn to a small muggle woman who looked vibrant despite her age, with impeccable nails, glossy dark hair, and a fond – yet stern! – smile on her face as she continually poked one Harry Potter in the chest as he stood abashedly rubbing the back of his neck.

"Where have you been? You promised you would visit!"

"Well, I've been busy-"

"With what? We both know you don't work!"

Daphne heard a chorus of giggles from several women sitting on little stools with wheels that allowed them to roll around.

"Fleur has been busy-" Harry attempted lamely.

"That never stopped you from coming before!" the woman – Yen, if Daphne recalled correctly – huffed.

It took a couple of seconds, but Daphne registered what had been revealed. She snickered, halting Yen mid-interrogation.

"Only went because Fleur made you, huh?" Daphne asked around her mocking giggles.

Harry blushed – like really blushed – and then slouched in defeat, groaning all the way. A female gasp interrupted Daphne's giggling fit and she found herself being thoroughly inspected by Yen. She stared at the woman wide-eyed until Yen shot her a disarming smile.

"This is Daphne!" she exclaimed confidently.

"Er- Yes, it is," Harry affirmed.

"You finally made up!" Yen praised over her shoulder as she shot Harry an exaggerated wink. "Girl, there is so much for us to catch up on! Harry talks about you all the time, you know."

Daphne blushed prettily. "He does?"

"Oh, yes!" Yen cackled and snapped her fingers. "Elaine! You take Potter since he decided to not visit us for the last two months."

"Aww, come on, Yen!" Harry pleaded. "You've always done-"

"No deal!" Yen frowned. "Come back next time and I might see you. Unless I like Daphne more, that is." She shot Daphne a cheeky grin which had her giggling nervously. "Come, we'll pick your color!"

Daphne found herself half-led, half-pulled over to the nail polish selection rack. Again, she gawked at the sheer number of options. With magic, color was simply done with a flick of the wand. But this…this was handmade!

She glanced over her shoulder with a sheepish smile to find Harry surrounded by three women and being tugged over to a chair. He grumbled the entire time, but she sensed it was good-natured and almost a game that he played with the employees. They seemed to enjoy it, chattering amongst themselves in a language Daphne didn't understand while Harry allowed them to 'torture him' (as he claimed).

"He's a big baby," Yen said lowly while she selected several colors and held them up for Daphne to inspect. "But a good man."

Daphne offered a nervous nod and selected a light pink for herself. Yen gave a sniff of approval and led Daphne over to a chair. Daphne was surprised at how comfortable it was and squeaked slightly when it started vibrating and massaging her back. She sighed pleasantly, relaxing into it as Yen placed her feet in hot – but not too hot! – water, adjusting the temperature to her desire.

"Yen!" a feminine voice called from across the room. "Cancel all my appointments!"

A gaggle of laughter followed the exclamation. Yen cackled. "That bad?"

"It's NOT that bad!" Harry protested in good humor from across the room.

Daphne felt her heart flutter at the happiness in his voice. He was clearly comfortable here.

"Oi, Big Papi, you paying?" Yen questioned over her shoulder, sending a wink at Daphne when she stared down confusedly.

"Uh, yeah? When do I not?" Harry was clearly confused.

"Good! I will make sure Daphne gets the best service!"

"I figured," Harry chuckled dryly. "That's why I left our afternoon and evening open. Take your time."

Yen nodded, clearly satisfied, and grinned wryly at Daphne. "You will leave here feeling like a new woman!"

A brief war waged within Daphne at the thought of Harry paying an exorbitant amount for her care, but she forced it down. Harry knew about her patents and that she was well-off due to her hard work and discoveries. If he wanted to treat her, then she would allow herself to indulge guilt-free.

The muggle massage chair gently coaxed Daphne into a light doze while Yen worked on her nails which were long overdue for pampering. It wasn't until two other ladies joined that Daphne was jolted awake as one started on her hands while the other began washing her hair.

"Ah, you're awake!" Yen teased.

"I-I'm sorry," Daphne stammered, blushing.

"No apologies!" Yen waggled a finger. "It's good to see you relaxed. That's how we know we're taking good care of you."

Daphne lifted her head slightly and noticed Harry's chair was empty. Yen must have seen the question in her eyes.

"Harry is waiting for us to finish," she explained, gesturing over her shoulder. "He knows not to rush me though."

"Does he come here often?" Daphne asked softly.

"More than he would care to admit," Yen snorted. "He's a good man, Daphne. He always asks how we are doing, remembers the names of our children and husbands and asks about them."

Daphne smiled gently at the affection in the older woman's voice as she praised Harry.

"He always pays for himself and someone else, regardless of if it's just him or if he brings his friend," Elaine added.

"Fleur?" Daphne asked tentatively.

"Sweet lady who speaks highly of him," Elaine nodded. "Although there's nothing there, if that's what you're worried about."

Daphne blushed.

"You'll take care of him, won't you Daphne?" Yen asked severely, causing Daphne to jump slightly at the sudden change of tone. She nodded fervently, causing Yen to sniff. "Good. He's been through a lot and deserves some happiness in life."

"H-he's told you a-about that stuff?" Daphne blurted in shock.

"In this industry you learn much by listening and observing," Yen explained softly with a wistful smirk. "Harry has never directly told me what he's gone through, but he carries the burden of war heavily. I've seen some of the scars when his shirt or pant leg would ride up."

She shuddered.

"His eyes, they used to be burdened, heavy-"

"Haunted," Elaine chimed.

Yen nodded sadly. "He's been coming to see us for years now. Over time, I have seen him slowly healing, especially when he first showed up in short sleeves and shorts. I thought I was going to pass out from the surprise!"

"He never did tell us who his plastic surgeon was," Elaine pointed out.

Yen waved it away. "Let him have some secrets," she laughed lightly before returning her attention to Daphne. "Eventually those emotions that were so prevalent in his gaze faded to the background, replaced by a more prominent emotion."

Daphne unconsciously leaned forward. "What?" she breathed.

"Loneliness," Yen said. "I recognize it because my sister lost her husband too early. Until she remarried, her eyes looked just like his did."

"Did?" Daphne gasped.

"Until today," Yen said gently. "I have never seen Harry happier than today."

"Because of you," Elaine said solemnly.

Daphne fell silent, quite stricken. Sure, Harry had explained that he missed her and wanted to start over. Sure, Harry had expressed that he thought he still loved her. He had told her he was lonely, and she had felt the same. But could a single night of brief reconciliation – if it could even be called that – really change him so profoundly that people could see it?

She glanced over toward Harry to see him leaned back in one of the lobby waiting chairs, his hands tucked behind the back of his head, his legs kicked out, and his eyes closed while he smiled toothlessly.

"You love him," Yen jolted her free from her intense observations.

Daphne opened and closed her mouth several times wordlessly before finally nodding.

"He told us losing you was his greatest regret in his life," Elaine whispered conspiratorially.

"We're very glad that you two have found each other once more," Yen added. "You both deserve happiness."

Daphne nodded numbly.

"He loves you too, you know," Yen said confidently. "Look at him over there. Have you ever seen him that relaxed, Elaine?"

Elaine snorted. "Never. He was practically glowing earlier."

Yen smirked as if that settled everything and shot a triumphant look up at Daphne. "I expect to see you both next month, young lady."

Daphne, still processing, responded with a single nod as she was helped out of the chair. She followed Yen to the front in a daze. Harry must have sensed their presence as he opened his eyes, stretched, and stood.

"My best work ever," Yen said proudly as she indicated Daphne and snatched her hand.

"I'll say," Harry said in awe. "You look gorgeous, Daphne."

Daphne turned toward a nearby mirror to inspect herself. Her hair had been washed, slightly trimmed, and now shone as if the sun reflected from it. Her face looked clean and flawless – had they done a facial on her while she was asleep? – and her nails were perfect.

She felt her hand pass into Harry's calloused, rugged hand and she blushed furiously, unable to meet his eyes for the time being. Her stomach fluttered as she continued to mull Yen and Elaine's words in her mind and heart.

"Th-Thank you, Harry," Daphne whispered.

"I expect to see you next month," Yen pointed at Harry. "You hear me, Potter?"

"Yes ma'am," Harry chuckled. "We'll both be here, if Daphne decides to keep me around."

"She will," Yen smirked, causing Daphne's blush – if it were possible – to deepen.

It wasn't until they were back outside that Daphne found her voice once more (after her blush had subsided).

"Wh-What, um, do you want to do now?" she asked.

Harry hummed and checked his watch. "Dinner and a movie?"

Daphne nodded excitedly.

"Any preferences for movies? There are quite a few interesting ones out right now."

Daphne blinked owlishly. Then felt embarrassment flood her. She hung her head, forcing Harry to gently grab her chin to make her look up.

"Daph?"

She fidgeted nervously. "I haven't been to any muggle movies," she admitted softly.

"That's okay, Daph," Harry assured. "I'm glad you get to experience your first one with me."

Daphne smiled.

-GU-

(Outside Movie Theatre – Late Night)

Harry led Daphne behind the movie theatre where they could both safely apparate home. The movie they had chosen, Armageddon, had left them both in a melancholy mood. Seeing a father who loved his child had struck them both differently.

For Harry, it was a reminder of how much James and Lily Potter had sacrificed for him. Moreso, however, was the reminder of Sirius Black who had given his life so Harry could keep living. The memory of Sirius caused his eyes to water, and he unconsciously squeezed Daphne's hand which he was still holding.

He had not let go of her hand for hours, and it warmed his soul. He saw Daphne surreptitiously wiping her eyes. He didn't need to ask why she was crying. Daphne's father had performed terrible magic on her mind and seeing the movie had clearly shaken her.

"Next time we'll just go with your suggestion," Harry muttered when she smiled up at him tremulously.

She snorted and covered her mouth with her free hand. "It was a good movie, Harry. Muggles can really create amazing things, can't they?"

Harry nodded. "Cinema has been one of my favorite pastimes these last three years."

"Then I hope we can see more movies together," Daphne replied.

Harry felt his heart soar and his body began to heat. He nervously licked his lips. "Does that mean we can go on another date?" He knew his voice was laced with multiple layers of hope. He didn't care.

Daphne tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and nodded. "Wednesday?" she questioned.

Harry felt his heart sink to his ankles. He really wanted to see her tomorrow. Daphne must have sensed his disappointment.

"H-Harry," she said nervously. "I don't want to rush this," she sighed and bit her lower lip, clearly having an internal debate. Eventually she huffed and muttered something that sounded like, "Bugger it."

"Lunch tomorrow?" she asked suddenly.

Harry nodded eagerly.

"But we're going to go slow," she repeated.

"I don't want to mess this up," Harry assured.

"Me neither," Daphne whispered.

Harry was suddenly acutely aware that they had drawn closer. Her lips looked so kissable in the moonlight. Memories of their youth flashed through his mind, of a young Daphne sitting on his bed at 4 Privet Drive, the moonlight streaming through his window.

KISS HER! his mind screamed at him.

He leaned forward, barely catching the unease, nervousness, and slight fear in her irises. He diverted from her lips and kissed her reverently on the cheek, pulling away long enough to whisper into her ear.

"Goodnight, Daphne. Today was wonderful."

She released a sound that was a mixture of a gasp, moan, and whimper.

"Goodnight, Harry. It truly was. Thank you."

Harry allowed her to pull away and, seconds later, he heard the telltale pop! of apparation. Now alone, he sagged against the wall and raised a trembling hand to his eyes. He could feel his heartbeat in his ears, his blood rushing through his veins, his very body burned from its closeness to Daphne.

He chuckled as the trembling passion slowly ebbed, leaving him feeling slightly less hollow than before.

"I hope you're watching, Sirius," he whispered to the night sky.

A silent pop! later, and the alley was empty.