Author Notes- Wrote a long chapter to celebrate that we made it to fifty chapters! Wow! Thank you to everyone who has continued to read. I loved all the new reviews. Hope you enjoy the new chapter.
Song inspiration for the George and Harry part was Stand By Me- B.B. King
Chapter 50
Worried Weasley's
Ron sat quietly on the stairs listening to his mother in the sitting room. He had been headed down for a snack when he heard Snape calling. He'd stopped to listen and was confused about the conversation. Something in Snapes voice didn't sound right.
"Thank you for calling, Severus." His mother said politely.
Ron listened as his mother began bustling around the sitting room. No doubt straightening up.
His brow furrowed and he made his way back upstairs, previous hunger forgotten.
When he reached Ginny's door he knocked lightly. Hermione had been staying in Ginny's room and Dean had been sharing his. They'd been told that they could spend time together, but that doors were to stay open in mixed company. They had mostly ignored that rule and nothing had really been said.
He and Hermione hadn't done much more than snog anyway, so he didn't think it much mattered.
"What?" Ginny huffed as she pulled her door open.
"Nice greeting." Ron snapped back.
Ginny crossed her arms and Ron sighed.
"I need to talk to Hermione." Ron said.
Ginny rolled her eyes before she walked back into her room.
"Thought you and Dean were going to go fly. Hermione and I are having a girl's day. Remember?" Ginny asked.
Ron nodded. That had been the plan. However, Dean had fallen into a food coma after lunch. Then he'd heard the strange conversation and needed to talk to Hermione.
"Sorry." Ron mumbled.
Hermione was sitting on her bed. Her hair was up in some kind of strange configuration and her face had some sort of green goop on it.
Ron just stared for a moment.
"What Ronald?" Hermione said in exasperation.
Ron shook his head and focused on why he'd come up here.
"I need to talk to you." Ron said.
Hermione gave him a look that screamed 'spit it out'.
"Um…alone." Ron said, as he looked over at Ginny.
Ginny had her arms crossed and her hip popped to one side.
"It's my room Ron. I'm not leaving. So, either start talking or leave and talk to her later." Ginny said with a huff of annoyance.
Ron considered his options.
"Fine." Ron said walking back over to the door and closing it. He quickly cast a silencing spell and sat at the end of Hermione's bed.
Ginny shot Hermione a curious look and took a seat on her own bed.
Ron sighed and tried to organize his thoughts a little.
"I was headed down to the kitchen and I heard the floo. It was Snape." Ron started.
Ginny gave him a confused look.
"So?" Hermione asked.
"Snape doesn't just call. I've never seen him call before. You?" He asked, turning to Ginny.
Ginny shook her head.
Hermione's brows furrowed which gave her an especially strange look with the goo on her face. Ron wanted to laugh but he held his tongue.
"Did you hear what they were talking about?" Hermione asked.
Ron nodded.
"He was checking to see if we were stocked up on potions." Ron said in a skeptical tone.
It was Ginny's turn to frown.
"What?" she asked in confusion.
She sat forward a little like she had misunderstood him.
Ron nodded in confirmation.
Hermione climbed off the bed.
"Sorry Gin. I can't think with all this on." Hermione said, waving at her head.
Ginny glanced at her and shrugged her indifference.
Hermione walked out of the room and Ron heard the bathroom door.
A moment later Hermione returned clear faced, and her hair pulled into a puffy ponytail.
"Okay so, Snape called to ask about potions?" Hermione asked as she sat down.
Ron shrugged.
"That's what he was saying. His tone was all weird though. Like how he was when he and Remus came to talk to us. I don't know. I don't think he was really calling about potions." Ron said.
"Could they have been talking in some kind of code?" Hermione asked.
Ron weighed the possibility.
"Was mum talking weird?" Ginny asked.
Ron shook his head.
"No, she seemed surprised that he called. She just acted normal." Ron answered.
They all sat quietly for a moment.
"You think it was about Harry, don't you?" Hermione asked.
Ron shrugged one shoulder and nodded.
They had hardly heard anything from Harry. Their worries hadn't really been relieved when he had been found. Learning that Harry was staying with Snape had been alarming. Even Hermione had stated reservations about the situation.
Hermione leaned back against the headboard and stared into the room.
"Do you think he ran away again?" Hermione asked quietly.
Ron sighed.
"I don't know. It was just weird. Do you think he would?" Ron asked.
Hermione bit her lip and shrugged.
"I don't know." She said barely above a whisper.
"What is going on with him?" Ginny asked, sitting back on her bed as well.
Ron met Hermione's eyes. They had considered a few possibilities. None of them were great.
"Were not sure. We've only gotten one letter from him since he's been at Professor Snapes house. It wasn't much better than his first two this summer. He just apologized for worrying us and said he was fine." Hermione sighed.
Ginny looked between Ron and Hermione.
"What do you think is going on?" Ginny asked.
Ron ran his hand through his hair in frustration. He was not really looking forward to running through all the possibilities again. It made him angry and worried.
Hermione pulled a notebook off her side table before flipping it open. Everything was written in there code so that no one could read it. She had started writing everything except schoolwork in code.
"I have a few theories. We know that there have been several Death Eater attacks or attempted attacks." Hermione said, waving at herself and in the general direction of Ron's room where Dean was.
Ginny nodded and Hermione continued.
"I know Harry spends a lot of time away from his house in the summer. I thought perhaps he ran away like we did. Maybe he saw someone he recognized and just left, hoping he'd lose them." Hermione said tapping her quill next to the first point on her page.
Ginny's brows creased and she shook her head.
"Harry left in the middle of the night. Didn't he?" Ginny asked.
Ron shrugged. They didn't know when he had left.
"Second theory is that he never actually ran away. I wouldn't put it past Professor Dumbledore to fake Harry running away to confuse the Death Eaters. It even made it to the Prophet for a day or two." Hermione said.
Once again Ginny shook her head.
"It was in the Prophet long after he'd been found though. And why talk to us? Why would Snape and Lupin show up? Mum and Dad were really worried. Are you saying Dumbledore would do that without telling anyone else?" Ginny asked in concern.
Hermione sighed and shrugged.
They had argued about that one quite a bit. Hermione was convinced that Dumbledore knew better. That he might have wanted to keep it quiet. However, She worried about how much control he had over Harry. Ron had argued that Dumbledore wouldn't have done something like that without telling the rest of the Order. That it didn't have the strategic power that Dumbledore usually seemed to use.
Sending the Order scrambling didn't make sense.
Ginny huffed.
"Alright, well what else do you have?" Ginny asked.
Hermione fidgeted for a moment and sighed before meeting Ron's eye. He knew what was next on the list. It's what they had discussed the most this summer.
"That Harry's relatives did something to him, and he ran away." Hermione said softly.
The words hung in the room for a long moment.
"You mean like hurt him? Has…Has Harry ever said anything like that?" Ginny asked, looking between them.
Ron rubbed his hands together and stared down at the soft yellow blanket on the bed. He didn't really want to answer that question, and he knew Hermione didn't either. Harry had never said anything like that. However, there were so many little things that once you looked at them all together, it was alarming.
Harry had avoided questions or distracted them when something came up. They weren't sure but it seemed the most likely option.
"No." Ron finally said quietly.
Ginny shuffled around on her bed and Ron looked up to see she was sitting on the edge of her bed leaning forward with a concerned look across her face.
"But?" she prodded.
Ron sighed. He didn't know how to explain it.
"But Ron and I have been talking this summer. We've talked a lot about the things we've noticed over the years…Things that aren't right. We all know he doesn't like it there, but I think it's more than that." Hermione answered sadly.
Ron just nodded in agreement. When Hermione had started laying everything out, he'd felt sick that she could be right. Hurt that Harry hadn't told them if it was true. Angry at himself and all the adults around them for not noticing.
Ginny had a shine of tears in her eyes, and she looked away from them.
"Do you really think they've been hurting him, and we didn't know?" Ginny asked, her voice slightly strained.
"I think it's possible." Ron said softly.
They sat quietly for a long time. All of them lost in their own thoughts. Ron occasionally heard a sniffle from one of the girls, but he knew better then to draw attention to it.
"If Harry ran away again…Do you…Do you think it's because Professor Snape did something? Upset him? Hurt him?" Ginny asked, breaking the silence.
Ron glanced at Hermione who had a pained look on her face.
She cleared her throat and looked down at her open notebook that now had small water marks on it from her tears.
"I don't know. I want to believe that a professor wouldn't do something like that. However, I have to admit Professor Snape seems to have a special dislike of Harry. I wish I could say I knew Harry well enough that he wouldn't run away again. Not after all the worry he caused. But I just don't know. I hope not." Hermione answered quietly.
"What do we do?" Ginny asked.
Ron shrugged. He was still wrapping his head around the possibility. He hadn't moved on to the 'what to do' phase yet.
Hermione pursed her lips.
"I don't think there's much we can do. At least not right now. Fred and George have kept us updated about what the Order is doing. They haven't said much about Harry though. I…" Hermione cut off and shot a look at Ron before continuing to answer Ginny.
"I think if we are right about this, they may have known." Hermione said softly.
Ron felt anger bubbling in his chest.
"I told you, there's no way they knew." Ron growled.
They had talked about that too. Hermione had brought up the way they always seemed so protective of Harry. How they always steal him away at the beginning of Harry's summer visits. That there reaction to Harry's note seemed suspicious.
She also pointed out the package they had sent.
Ron shook his head. There was no way they knew, and he didn't. Harry was his best friend.
"That actually kind of makes sense." Ginny said.
Ron shot her a glare and Ginny just shrugged a little.
"I think for now, all we can really do is wait. If Harry has run away again, we'll find out." Hermione said.
Ron balled his hands into fists. He wished there was something that he could do. This summer had been so stressful. He wished Harry could just come to the Burrow so they could work it all out. Then enjoy the last few weeks of the holiday before they headed back to school.
Ron sighed and dropped his head into his hands.
"I think we should talk to mum." Ginny said softly.
Ron raised his head and looked at her like she'd lost her mind.
"What?" Ginny asked with annoyance.
"You guys always go on these adventures without telling an adult and then all hell breaks loose. You can't go after him. I won't let you. I already have to worry about all my other brothers out there every day. I'm not about to start worrying about you too." Ginny said firmly.
Ron wanted to argue that he wasn't going to go after Harry. Though he knew that if the situation called for it he would go. It had been difficult not to go looking after Dumbledore had talked to them.
"If you're right and Harry's relatives have been hurting him, mum and dad will want to know. They love Harry like he's one of us. Plus, If Snape has done something and Harry has run away again, they'll want to know that too." Ginny said earnestly.
"I think we should tell them what we think is going on. If they know something, maybe they will tell us, and we can stop guessing. If they don't, they will look into it. Wouldn't it be better if at least one adult knew what was going on?" Ginny argued.
He did not want to have that conversation with his parents. Especially his mum.
Ron looked to Hermione who seemed to be considering Ginny's words.
Hermione shot him an apologetic look and he knew she was agreeing with Ginny.
Ron sighed and nodded his head in defeat.
"I'll talk to dad after dinner, if he's not gone tonight." Ron said with another sigh.
The girls nodded.
Ron stood and headed to the door.
"Where are you going?" Hermione asked.
Ron shrugged.
"Letting you guys have the rest of your girl's day. I should probably wake Dean up. He naps much longer I'll have to listen to him toss and turn all night again." Ron said.
Hermione looked concerned but nodded.
"Why don't you go get him and will play some cards." Ginny said, looking a little sad.
Ron looked from Ginny to Hermione and nodded.
"Sure." Ron said.
Ginny nodded back.
"Will go get some snacks and meet you back here." Ginny said, standing up and offering her hand to Hermione.
"You could just come to our room." Ron suggested.
Both girls wrinkled their noses and shook their heads.
Ron smirked and nodded.
"All right, we'll meet you back here." Ron said with a soft laugh, as he headed back to his room.
"Lupin." Severus voice called into the sitting room of Lupin cottage.
Remus was startled. He'd started to drift off.
He and Sirius both jumped from the couch and knelt before the fireplace.
"Did you find him?" Sirius asked, worry thick in his voice.
Severus face pinched and he shook his head.
"I'm sorry, no." Severus said quietly.
"What can we do?" Remus asked.
He and Sirius had been sitting on the couch for hours. The tension in his muscles from the stress was becoming painful.
"I was wondering if you would come through so we could talk." Severus asked.
They both nodded.
"Black, I'd like you to stay there. I promise I'm not trying to hide anything. Lupin can relay everything we talk about. However, I've not given up hope that Harry will return on his own. I know it seems unlikely given all the hours that have passed but there's still a chance. If he doesn't return here, I think he will go to you. At least, I hope." Severus said with a weary sigh.
Remus could see Sirius jaw tense.
Remus reached out and squeezed his hand.
"It'll be okay. I won't be long." Remus said softly.
He knew Sirius was worried about Harry, but he was also struggling being couped up in the house.
It wasn't as difficult here as it had been in Grimmauld, but Remus suspected he was seeing evidence that Sirius was falling into another depressive episode. He hoped going for their daily runs would help stave off the worst of it.
Sirius sighed and nodded.
"I'll be right through." Remus said with a nod to Severus before closing the floo.
Remus followed Sirius back to the couch. Sirius sat softly and leaned his arms against his thighs. His head hung low, and his long hair hid his face.
Remus reached down and brushed his fingers through the long curls and pushed some behind his ear. He kept his hand gently on Sirius cheek.
Sirius looked up, the sadness in his eyes broke Remus heart.
"I'm sorry." Remus said softly.
Sirius shook his head.
"He's right. One of us needs to stay here. I just hate waiting. I hate not knowing. I want to be out there doing something. I'm really worried about him." Sirius said quietly.
Remus nodded. He was worried too. Sitting here all day had not helped.
"Go. See what Snape has to say. Maybe he'll say something that will help us find him." Sirius said.
"I'll be back after a while. Why don't you rest? You look exhausted." Remus said softly rubbing his thumb along Sirius cheek.
Sirius nodded.
"Okay. I love you. See you in a little." Remus said softly and headed for the fireplace.
"Love you too." Sirius said quietly.
There was a soft pop and when Remus looked back Sirius had shifted into Padfoot. His head lay heavily on his paws and his ears were pulled back in an obvious sign of distress.
Remus sent him a sad smile before he floo'd to Severus' house.
Remus followed Severus through the house and down to the potion's lab in the basement. Severus said nothing as he pulled out a pair of chairs and gestured for Remus to sit.
Once they were seated Severus sighed deeply and rubbed his face.
"I apologize for not contacting you sooner. Harry's behavior over the last few days has concerned me. I thought it was just adjusting to having Draco here. I'd planned to contact you yesterday if it hadn't improved. However, Harry came to me and discussed several things, and I thought that unburdening himself a little may have helped. I'd planned on calling to night to get your opinion about what he shared with me." Severus said.
Severus face was crease with concern. It was obvious he was just as stressed as they had been today.
"I didn't think he would hurt himself or run away. He was asleep when I left, and I was unfortunately gone longer than I'd initially planned to be." Severus continued.
Remus nodded. Severus was putting a lot of blame on himself.
"I don't blame you Severus. I'd like to know what's been going on and what happened today but as far as I'm aware, it's not your fault. Harry is going through a lot, and he needs more support then is available at the moment." Remus said.
Severus sighed.
Remus listened as Severus described the duel at the school. The resulting punishment and Harry's behavior. How he'd avoided meals, hardly spoken, and seemed exhausted.
Remus was concerned by the behavior.
"I also noticed an increase in him using heavy occlumency shields." Severus said.
Remus sighed. He'd hoped that would have stopped by now.
"We need to address that. He's going to hurt himself doing that." Remus said with a shake of his head.
Severus nodded.
"Do you know what is behind those stronger shields?" Remus asked.
"No, the outer shield seems to be a wall of some sort, but I am unaware what else, if anything, is behind them." Severus answered.
Remus nodded in thought.
"We'll need to see. I could help him with shields but mine are significantly different than his." Remus said, knowing that Severus would understand that his shields came from his lycanthropy and weren't something he had built himself.
Severus nodded.
"Perhaps if things settle a little, I will approach the subject. Harry and I do not have a good history when it comes to Occlumency." Severus said.
Remus nodded.
"What was it that Harry talked to you about?" Remus said after a moment.
Severus ran a hand through his hair and avoided looking directly at Remus.
"I'm not sure where to start. Harry finally explained what happened that last day. I've been able to draw several conclusions from what he told me." Severus said.
Remus took a deep breath and clasped his hands tightly. Harry had plenty of reasons to run. However, it had been a lingering question as to what had finally sent him over the edge.
"I won't give you the drawn-out version he gave me. He really seemed like he needed to unburden himself. I just listened to him talk." Severus said softly.
Remus nodded. He was glad Harry was finally starting to open up a little.
"I've told the boys not to disturb me down here while I'm working unless it's an emergency." Severus said.
Remus nodded his understanding. A potions lab could be an extremely dangerous environment and requires significant concentration.
"Yesterday while I was brewing there was a knock on the door. I was surprised to find it was Harry. It took a bit to figure out what was wrong. I noticed him tugging on his shirt sleeves. I've seen this behavior in other students who self-harm. I invited him down and gave him something easy to do since he asked for a distraction. We talked after and he admitted to having thoughts of hurting himself. I told him I was proud of him for seeking help. However, when I asked what had triggered him, I learned he had been struggling for several days." Severus said.
Remus nodded. He was also proud of Harry. That was a big step and one that he himself had struggled with.
"When I asked about what was troubling him, he said that he'd been thinking about his life with his previous guardians. From what I gathered the last day was similar to many other days in the boy's life. His relatives were cruel, and he faced long hours of chores and physical and verbal abuse." Severus said with a sigh.
"I learned how the two large cuts on his arms happened and do believe that they were accidents. However, I'm concerned that he is passively suicidal. Despite the severity of the injuries, he made several comments that concerned me." Severus added.
Remus heart clenched. He knew Harry was struggling but to hear things like this made him physically hurt for him.
"He mentioned that his uncle made a lewd comment while having him pinned to a counter. It sounds like he was also touching him suggestively. Harry says that his uncle has made comments his whole life. However, it doesn't seem like it ever reached the point of sexual abuse. Though I think that could be left up to interpretation." Severus said with a slight shrug of his shoulder.
Remus ground his teeth. It had been one of the most difficult things to read on Harry's diagnostic. There was no doubt that Harry had been raped and sexually abused in other ways. It had left him physically ill. Harry had been brutalized by someone.
"I…I don't wish to betray what Harry has told me, but I feel it's necessary for his safety. He did disclose the sexual abuse to me. Not in detail but more the story that led up to it. It seems a man that worked at his primary school found him eating out of the trash. He groomed the boy. Convinced him that he could trust him. Showed him the first affection Harry remembers. It also sounds like he drugged him the first time he attacked him." Severus said, his face going a sickly grey.
Remus pulled up his mental shields. He needed to focus on the information and process how he felt about it later.
"Harry told me he avoided him after the first attack but, this guy just kept coming after him. It didn't stop after he left primary school. Harry said he was attacked at the leaky cauldron, the world cup, and last summer in Surrey while he was walking home." Severus said, looking Remus in the eye finally.
Remus felt like he'd been kicked in the chest. He'd not even considered that it could have been anyone other than Harry's uncle. To learn it had been a predator at the school was a lot but to find out that they were also a wizard burned something in him.
"He's a wizard. How did he get to Harry last summer? We were all watching him!" Remus said with a growl.
Severus nodded.
"Which is the reason I am telling you. I suspect whoever it is, is closer then we think. I don't know who. Harry only gave me the name Mr. F. I also wasn't able to get a description." Severus said.
Remus could see the anger and pain in Severus face.
Remus nodded.
"Will make sure he's watched if he isn't some place, we know he is safe." Remus affirmed.
Then he remembered Harry was missing again. His stomach turned at the thought of Harry out there alone.
"I'm really hoping Harry has run off to someone safe who just hasn't come forward yet. One of his friends perhaps." Severus said, rubbing his face.
Remus nodded.
"What led to him leaving?"
Severus sighed.
Remus listened as Severus explained what Draco had done. Remus had been livid that Harry had been hurt again but kept his feelings in check while he listened to Severus explain. Severus went on to explain what Draco had told him had happened today. Remus' heart broke listening to the scene that Severus had found in the bathroom. Then Severus explained his conversation with Draco.
Remus sighed.
"I appreciate that you are in a difficult position with both boys. I can also acknowledge what you are trying to do with Draco. Making him examine his actions is probably a smart idea. I'm sure he has a long way to go but hopefully that conversation will leave him with something to think about." Remus said.
"However, I don't think Draco can go unpunished. The conversation was what Draco needed but it's not what Harry needs. Harry has been hurt over and over and no one has ever been held responsible. If you let Draco go with only a conversation, I fear it will reinforce Harry's belief that there are no consequences for people hurting him." Remus said firmly.
Severus sighed again and pinched the bridge of his nose.
"I will keep that in mind." Severus said softly.
As Remus nodded there was a knock on the basement door.
Both men looked at one another in worry.
Severus stood and headed up the stairs, Remus following close behind.
Ron walked on shaky legs out across the yard toward the shed. His Dad had headed out right after dinner was finished. Ron had helped clean up dinner and then Hermione and Ginny had shuffled him out the door.
The sky was dark and there was a warm breeze blowing. He could hear the dry grass crunching under his feet and his heart pounding in his ears. He wasn't sure why going to talk to his dad was causing him such anxiety, but it was.
He supposed he was worried about what his dad might say. Perhaps they knew and there was nothing that they could do. Perhaps he wouldn't believe him and send him off to bed.
He sucked in a deep breath and summoned every ounce of Gryffindor courage he could before he pushed open the door.
Ron looked around the piles of junk. He caught sight of his dad at the back of the shed looking for something. He cleared his throat and his dad turned around. His dad gave him a tired smile and waved him in.
"Come to join me for a while? I wasn't sure I'd ever pull you away from Hermione. You two seem to be connected at the hip these days." Arthur said with a slight smile.
Ron smiled a little though he feared it came out as more of a grimace.
His dad sat with a sigh and pushed his glasses up his nose before turning his full attention on Ron. His brows creased a little and a frown pulled at the corners of his mouth as he studied Ron.
"What's wrong, son?" Arthur asked.
Ron rocked from one foot to the other and rubbed the back of his neck. He wasn't sure how he was even supposed to bring this up.
"I…we're…We're worried about Harry." Ron finally said.
His dad nodded but the concern did not lessen.
"Worried about what specifically?" Arthur asked.
Ron sighed.
Ron explained the strange feeling he'd gotten about Professor Snape calling. Then he'd hesitantly told him about his conversation with Ginny and Hermione. He'd explained some of the things he and Hermione had noticed over the years. That it had never set off alarm bells for either of them until this summer, and looking back maybe it should have.
His dad's face got more stressed the longer they talked, and Ron started to worry what his dad might say.
With a sigh he finished.
His dad nodded in thought and looked down at his work bench.
"That is concerning. I'm not sure what to say. I think we would know if Harry had run away again but I can check with Severus tomorrow to make sure. Perhaps you could write him a letter. As for… well as for your concerns about his previous guardians, your mother and I have always had some concerns. However, like you said the signs have always been subtle. Your mother always makes extra food to send to him in the summer. We also try our hardest to get him as early as Albus will allow us." Arthur said with a sigh.
"I'm not sure it much matters now. His relatives have moved away, and Harry has a new guardian for the time being. Though I imagine that may change in the near future. I'd say don't worry yourselves to much about it. If Harry wants to talk to you about something like that, please try to remember it's not his fault." Arthur said in a thoughtful manner.
Ron went to protest that. Of course it wasn't Harry's fault. His father held up a hand to stop him.
"It also means that if there is something like that in his past, you aren't intitled to that information. You shouldn't get mad at him for not having told you. I know you, son. You and Harry have had spats over far less in the past and I'd hate to see another, especially if you're right. I imagine if your right that Harry will need more support than he usually gets." Arthur said.
Ron sighed and nodded.
His father was right. He'd already been feeling angry and if he blew up on Harry, he might just lose his best friend.
Arthur nodded.
"I'll contact Severus in the morning. For now, I think you ought to head to bed. It's getting late." Arthur said standing and walking to Ron.
Ron sighed. His worries had not really been eased but he found comfort in his father's words.
His dad wrapped him in a tight hug and kissed the top of his head.
"It'll be alright, Ron." He whispered before he let go.
Ron nodded.
"Good night, Dad." Ron said softly.
"Good night." Arthur said softly as Ron walked out of the shed.
Fred and George bumped shoulders and laughed as they made their way up the narrow staircase from their shop up to the flat.
"Merlin, that was awkward." George said shaking his head.
"B-b-but you do everything together." Fred mocked.
George's face flushed tomato red and he groaned.
Fred smiled at his brother's embarrassment. They'd gone on a double date after they'd closed up the shop. Angelina had shown up around lunch to whisper that she thought she'd found a good date for George.
Fred had smiled mischievously at his brother and agreed to meet them after closing. George had protested the blind date but finally agreed.
George's date had been shy and awkward and then seemed to switch into uncomfortably forward. When he'd made a remark about them all going back to the twin's flat for some fun, Angelina and Fred had laughed at the ridiculousness and George had been mortified. The date had gotten indignant at being laughed off and after telling them off had stormed away from dinner.
"I'm never going on a date with you again." George groaned.
Fred smiled and waved his wand to unlock the door.
"We'll see." Fred said with a wink.
"He had his hand up my thigh before our drink's even showed up. I thought he would have caught on when I went to the loo, but he clearly wasn't getting that he was making me uncomfortable. I'm not sure I trust Angie's instincts anymore." George said, stepping into the flat.
Fred shrugged. He knew it was a bad date. He really wasn't laughing at George's discomfort. If he'd realized the guy was being so handsy he would have done more than send a single stinging hex as he fled the restaurant. He'd just wanted to get George out of the flat for some fun. He had been so down lately.
"Sorry mate." Fred said sincerely.
George shrugged and sat down with a sigh on the couch.
"You want a drink?" Fred asked, walking into the kitchen.
"Nah." George said.
Fred was walking back to the sitting room when he heard a strange noise. It sounded like it had come from George's room.
Fred looked at George.
"Did you hear that?" Fred asked pulling his wand.
George stood from the couch and pulled his wand as well but shook his head.
"What was it?" George asked, looking around.
They'd been on alert all day after Tonks had stopped by the shop. She hadn't said anything specifically, but it was clear something had been wrong. They worried that there had been rumors of another attack in the alley. Several shops had already been damaged and there were people that had gone missing.
They hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary and had relaxed enough by the end of the day to go on their date. Though they had walked Angelina home just to be safe.
A growling noise came from George's room and Fred shot him another look to see if he had heard it this time.
George's brows were creased, and he nodded.
They walked carefully towards the bedroom door. It was open a little but dark inside. They both held there wands up as Fred pushed the door open. George lit the lights, and another growl could be heard. They both scanned the room and then Fred froze.
There was a huge black wolf in the corner. His teeth were bared, and his hackles were up. Fred tried to remember if it was a full moon but couldn't remember. The animal was huge and angry. He pointed his wand and suddenly George grabbed his arm.
"Don't." George exclaimed.
Fred shot him a confused look.
"It's Harry." George said, releasing Fred's arm.
"What?" Fred said holding his wand down at his side but not taking his eyes off the snarling animal in the back corner of the room.
"He's an Animagus. I've not seen his form but look at his eyes. It's Harry." George said shakily.
Fred's mind spun a little, trying to take in that new information.
George stepped further into the room with his hands up.
"It's okay. You're okay." George said.
The wolfs tail tucked low and his ears pulled back again. A soft whimper sounded from the animal.
"George, give him some space." Fred warned. He still wasn't convinced it was Harry and didn't want George to miss the obvious warning signs the animal was giving them.
"Harry you're okay. You're safe. Can you shift back?" George asked softly.
The wolf lowered his head and bared his teeth again. Fred swallowed hard. He reached out and grabbed George's arm.
George turned to him with a heartbroken look on his face. Even if Fred was unsure about this being Harry, he could see that George was sure.
"Let's give him a little space." Fred said.
George glanced back at Harry and then to Fred with a nod.
"We're just going to go in the sitting room. You're okay Harry. Just stay here and relax okay." George said softly.
The wolf whined and they walked out of the room. George turned out the light and pulled the door most of the way closed.
When they reached the couch Fred cast a one-way silencing spell.
"You're sure it's Harry?" Fred asked a little shakily.
George nodded.
"Something must have happened. I…He told me he was an Animagus when we went to Snapes. I told him he could come to us if anything happened." George said with worried glances at the door.
Fred sighed and ran his hands through his hair.
"How long do you think he's been here?" Fred asked.
George shrugged.
"I don't know. We've been gone all day…Do you…do suppose that's why Tonks came by? Harry ran away and she was looking for him?" George asked.
Fred considered and shrugged. It was possible. Nothing else had happened today.
Fred sighed.
"What do we do?" Fred asked.
George stared at the door.
"We need to let Snape know he's here. I…I don't think he's going back. At least not tonight. We need to let them know though. Otherwise, will be in another emergency meeting before dawn." George said.
Fred nodded.
"Would um…will you call him?" George asked.
Fred grimaced. He didn't really want to call Snape, but he could do that for George. He looked very anxious. Not about the snarling animal in his room but whatever it was that had led Harry here.
Fred nodded and headed to the floo.
After calling the address he stuck his head in and called. There was no answer and he groaned.
"No one's there." Fred said, turning from his knelt position to look at George.
George bit his lip and shrugged.
Fred sighed and stood.
"If I die it's your fault." Fred groaned as he took a pinch of floo powder and tossed it in the fireplace.
"Spinner's End." Fred called before stepping into the floo.
He just hoped Snape wouldn't curse him for flooing into his house without permission.
Draco stood at the top of the stairs. He'd heard the floo flare. His breath felt trapped in his lungs and a knot was forming in his throat. He hoped it was Potter, but he wasn't sure. Severus had said that not very many people knew where he lived.
"Snape?" He heard a voice call.
It definitely wasn't Potter. It sounded like a Weasley. Maybe he'd been right, and Potter had run off to his friends.
There was another woosh and Draco knew whoever it was had come into the house.
"Snape?" The voice called again.
Draco knew Severus wouldn't hear him. He'd gone to the lab a while ago with someone else.
Draco took a deep breath and walked down the stairs and to the door of the sitting room. He peered in and found one of the twins standing in the middle of the room looking unsure.
"What are you doing here?" Draco asked, holding his wand down at his side. He was still pretty upset about the fight on the pitch last year. Though he had to admit there exit from the school had been impressive.
The red head turned to look at him and narrowed his eyes in suspicion.
"What are you doing here?" He spat.
Draco raised an eyebrow.
"I'm staying here." Draco drawled.
The red heads face pinched in confusion.
"Where's Snape?" He asked.
Draco watched him for a moment before he spoke.
"In the lab." Draco answered.
"Can you get him?" He asked.
Draco sighed and nodded.
Draco left the other boy in the sitting room and made his way to the kitchen. He strode to the door and knocked. When he heard two sets of feet coming up the stairs he tightened his grip on his wand.
He trusted Severus to keep him safe but that didn't mean whoever was here wasn't a threat to him.
The door opened and Severus and Professor Lupin stepped out. Draco's brow creased.
He'd heard Severus talk about the man a few times. He was fairly sure he hated him more than even Potter.
"What Draco?" Severus asked sternly.
Draco swallowed and glanced at Professor Lupin and then back to his godfather.
"There's a Weasley in the sitting room." Draco said.
Severus shot a look at Lupin before nodding.
"Thank you, Draco. Please return to your room." Severus said as he headed for the door.
Draco wanted to argue but he didn't want to upset Severus more than he already appeared to be.
Draco nodded and headed back to his room. He hoped Severus would tell him what was happening later, but he wasn't going to hold his breath.
Severus walked into the sitting room and found one of the Weasley twins standing there with his hands in his pockets and looking stressed. He wished again that he could tell them apart.
"Fred. What's going on?" Remus said stepping around him.
Well, he supposed that solved that problem.
"Um, Is Harry here?" Fred asked nervously.
Severus looked to Remus before shaking his head.
"No, he ran off." Severus said stepping further into the room.
Fred nodded.
"Is he an Animagus?" Fred asked shakily.
"Yes." Severus snapped.
He was growing frustrated with the questions.
"What's his form?" Fred asked.
Severus sighed in exacerbation.
"A big mutt. A Black wolf-dog with some white markings on his shoulders. Now are you going to tell us what this is about? Did you find him?" Severus growled.
Fred noticeably relaxed and sighed.
"Yeah, we did. I…I just wanted to make sure. George said it was Harry, but I wasn't sure. If it wasn't I wanted to go back before something happened." Fred explained running a hand through his hair.
Severus also relaxed. The boy had been found.
"Let's sit." Remus said taking the armchair Harry usually did.
Severus nodded and collapsed into his chair. Fred seemed a little hesitant but quickly took a seat on the couch.
"Where is he?" Severus asked.
"Our flat. We just got home. We heard something and we went to look, then there was this huge dog snarling at us." Fred said with another sigh.
Severus pinched the bridge of his nose. He'd hoped Harry would have calmed down from his flight from the house by now. He'd been gone all day. Clearly, he was wrong.
"I think George is going to try and calm him down, but we wanted to let someone know where he was. I don't think he's coming back tonight. We couldn't even get close to him." Fred said sadly.
Severus groaned.
"That's fine. He may stay the night. I will collect one of his calming draughts for you to take to him. When he is…Feeling better, inform him, I expect him back here tomorrow." Severus said quietly.
He was hesitant about allowing the boy to stay away. Especially when he was so upset. However, he knew the only way they'd get him back here right now, would be to stun him. He wouldn't do that, and it wasn't strictly necessary. It didn't sound like anyone else knew he was there. So, he should be safe for one night.
Remus gave him a worried look but nodded.
Fred nodded and stood. He reached out and took the Calming draught that Severus was holding out. Then pocketed it quickly.
"Thank you, Professor. I…I don't suppose you'll tell me why he took off?" Fred asked, turning and facing Severus.
There was a glint of accusation in Fred's eyes and Severus sighed. It hadn't been his fault, but he should have done things differently.
"You may have noticed I am now housing another child. They don't exactly get along. Mr. Malfoy thought it would be good fun to cast a locking spell at the bathroom door while Harry was in there. From what I've gathered he took off as soon as the spells were taken down." Severus said as neutrally as he could.
Fred's jaw clenched and he nodded.
"Alright. Well, I better go." Fred said and walked to the floo without another word.
Severus groaned and rubbed his temples. This could not continue.
"We need to address several things with Harry. He can't keep using his occlumency the way he is, and he can't keep running off. He's going to get hurt or killed." Remus said firmly.
Severus nodded he knew he was right.
"I'm going to go let Sirius know that Harry is safe. He's been beside himself all day. I imagine you have a few people to call." Remus said standing and heading to the floo.
Severus nodded. Thankfully, he hadn't informed many people, but he would call Mary and Minerva and Send Tonks a patronus.
"Thank you for updating me on what you learned. I believe we should give Harry a little space on the matter for now. I think it would be wise for us to try and get more information about this 'Mr. F'" Remus said softly.
Severus met his eye and could see the anger and hurt in the man's face.
"I agree. I will do what I can to mend things here and allow him space. Perhaps in a week or so I can inquire." Severus said.
He felt the exhaustion catching up with him.
Remus nodded.
"Good night, Severus." Remus said, taking some floo powder.
"Good night." Severus said quietly.
Severus sighed as he climbed the stairs. He'd let everyone know Harry had been located, but didn't say anything about him not being here. He trusted them but didn't want something to slip that Harry wasn't safe here where the wards were.
He still wasn't sure it had been the right decision, but he wasn't sure the other options were any better. He hoped that this would show some trust in Harry and that he would in fact return tomorrow and not run even further away.
Severus heard a noise from Draco's room.
He knocked on the door and waited for Draco. When the boy answered he was frustrated, and Severus took a minute to calm himself. Today had been long enough and he didn't want to get into an argument with Draco.
"May I come in?" Severus asked.
Draco nodded and walked back into his room and flopped on the bed.
Severus pulled out the chair in front of his desk and sat.
"Did you find him?" Draco asked quietly. Some of the frustration seemingly fading.
Severus nodded.
"Yes, he will be gone for the night and return tomorrow." Severus answered.
Draco nodded.
"I need you to do me a favor Draco. It's very important." Severus said.
Draco looked up and his face seemed intrigued.
"I need you to promise me that what happens in this house stays here. You may see or hear things, but I need you to keep them to yourself." Severus said.
"Like the Slytherin code?" Draco asked.
Severus smiled a little and nodded.
"Yes, like that." Severus answered.
He'd put in place a code of silence within Slytherin house when he had become head of house. They were to keep what happened inside the house to themselves. As much as Albus pushed for interhouse unity he knew it only took one slipped secret to cause more problems. This allowed the Slytherins to relax in their common room and be themselves. It allowed them to talk with friends without worrying how far there secrets would get.
They were instructed to come to him or a prefect if there was an issue and nearly all problems were resolved in-house.
Draco nodded.
"Of course. I wouldn't ever betray your secrets Sev." Draco said earnestly.
Severus nodded.
"It's not only my secrets I need you to keep." Severus said softly.
Draco looked away and sighed.
"Is this about what I saw in the bathroom?" Draco asked.
Severus wished that hadn't happened. Not only because he was upset that Harry had been hurting so much, but also because he was sure Harry would be upset when he realized Draco knew.
"Partially. Do you know what you saw?" Severus asked.
Draco looked back at him and shrugged a little.
"Like I said, I don't want to make assumptions…. but I know what Pansy was going through a few years ago. I don't really know what I saw…But I know what it looked like." Draco said.
Severus nodded. Ms. Parkinson was a good reference though not really a one-to-one. Most of her issues were resolved with a little support. Harry seemed to be slowly crumbling under the support that he now had after having nearly none.
"Keep in mind what I said earlier. I'd like you to try and get to know Harry. I think you will find him to be surprisingly Slytherin if you get to know him." Severus said.
Draco gave him a doubtful look and Severus understood. He never would have believed it either. Harry wore his Gryffindor mask well at school, but it wasn't truly who he was.
Draco sighed and nodded.
"You should get some sleep. Your schoolwork will still be there in the morning." Severus said standing from the chair.
Draco nodded and flopped the textbook in front of him closed.
"Good night, Draco." Severus said softly as he stepped out of the room.
"Night Sev." Draco said quietly as the door closed.
George was laying on his stomach on the floor of his room when he heard the floo flare again. Harry was still in the corner, but he had stopped growling. He had twisted himself into a tight knot and was occasionally whimpering but it was progress.
Harry's head popped up at the sound and George raised one of his hands a little.
"It's okay. I'm sure it's just Fred. He went to let Snape know where you were." George said softly.
Harry whined and laid his head down again.
George frowned. He wished he knew what had happened. Hopefully, Fred had found out.
The door creaked and Harry's eyes looked at the door. His hackles raised a little but otherwise he remained still but watching.
Fred walked into the dimly lit room and sat down close to George.
"Snape says he can stay the night. Gave me this." Fred whispered before setting a vial next to George's hand.
George only nodded.
"Is he calming down?" Fred asked.
George shrugged a little.
"A little bit." George answered quietly.
"I'm going to head to bed. If you need me just call." Fred said patting his brother gently on the shoulder before standing and leaving.
George turned back to Harry and began telling him a story about when he had been young. He spoke softly and hoped that the calm tone and funny story would slowly relax Harry.
George woke slowly. His mind felt groggy, and his body was stiff. He moved a little and realized he was lying on the floor. He heard a sniffle and looked over to see Harry back in human form sitting with his back to the wall. George could see the shine of tears on his face and his heart broke.
He pushed himself to a seated position but stayed where he was. He wanted to allow Harry the space he needed. Though he wished he could go over and wrap the boy in his arms.
"Harry." George called softly.
Harry turned his head and looked at him.
"Sorry." Harry mumbled softly.
George shook his head.
"it's okay. I told you to come here if you needed a place to go. It's okay that you came here." George said softly.
Harry shook his head and looked away.
"I just had to get away. I don't even remember flooing here or shifting. I was just afraid." Harry said softly, staring into the dark room.
George swallowed hard. Harry sounded distant and tired. Like life had finally collapsed on top of him and he just couldn't take anymore.
"I'm sorry. Do you want to talk about it?" George asked.
He knew Harry probably wouldn't want to. He usually didn't. However, there was something about this situation that almost felt surreal. Like they had moved out of normal time and space. Like the room was too dark and there wasn't enough air. Like somehow, he and Harry were the only two people that existed in this moment.
The strangeness of being awake at this hour, in the dark with Harry, left him with the feeling that Harry would tell him.
He just needed to prepare himself for whatever it was he would say. They had been spared many of the painful details of Harry's life. He rarely ever lets something slip. He only allowed them to really see the pain he was feeling when they were trying to heal him.
This moment felt raw and electric.
The stillness in the room was broken by a light breeze from the open window. The curtain danced for a moment before stilling once again.
"I've made so many mistakes this summer." Harry started softly.
"I just keep going over it all again and again in my head. I don't even know where I went wrong. I wanted away from the Dursley so bad, and all I can think is that I never should have gotten off of that floor." Harry whispered.
George's heart clenched at the pain in Harry's voice.
"None of it would have happened. I'd just be gone." Harry said almost wistfully.
They sat quietly for a moment and George desperately tried to think of anything to say. His throat felt like it had closed up on him and his brain felt blank.
"I made a really big mistake yesterday. One I can't take back. I wish I could. I keep trying to figure out why I did it. I just don't know. I can't explain it to myself." Harry said dropping his head into his hands and angrily drawing his fingers through his hair.
George swallowed around the lump in his throat.
"What did you do?" George asked hesitantly.
George could see Harry's jaw tense and his hands fist into the legs of his pants. His eyes had a shine to them but the tears didn't fall.
"I told Snape something I promised myself I wouldn't ever talk about." Harry said brokenly.
George sighed a little. Harry kept so much to himself.
George wished that Harry knew how much they all cared about him. That nothing he told them would change that.
"It's disgusting. I'm disgusting. I shouldn't have even come here." Harry cried softly, lowering his head onto his knees.
George listened to Harry cry for a moment. He suspected he knew what Harry had told Snape. It was disgusting. Not that Harry was but that someone could hurt someone like Harry that way.
"I don't see you any different Harry. I'm glad you came here." George said softly.
Harry cried harder and George wished he could comfort Harry. Then he remembered the potion in his pocket.
George stood and Harry's head popped up with a completely devastated look on his face.
George made a soft shushing noise and held his hand out a little.
"I'm going to get us some water. Okay?" George said softly.
Harry looked away from him and nodded a little jerkily.
When George returned Harry was still balled up against the wall. His arms wrapped firmly around his legs and his chin sitting on his knees. He was staring blankly into the room.
George shuffled his feet a little and Harry's eyes moved to watch him. George sat on the floor again, but he sat much closer. When Harry didn't attempt to move away from him, he sat his water on the floor and retrieved the vial of potion from his pocket.
He held out the vial and the glass of water to Harry.
"What is it?" Harry asked, his voice cracking a little.
"Calming draught. Snape sent it with Fred when he went to let him know you were here." George said softly.
Harry's eyes shined a little and he nodded before reaching out for both. George caught a glimpse of the angry, red lines all the way up both of his arms. He'd hoped Harry wouldn't go back to hurting himself, but he knew that he was hurting and the support he was getting wasn't enough.
He looked away from the marks and did not mention them. What was done was done. He could only hope Harry did not do it again.
Harry studied the potion for a long moment before he tipped it into his mouth. He pushed the vial in his pocket and took a sip of the water. He closed his eyes and tipped his head back to rest on the wall.
The silence stretched and George wondered if Harry had fallen asleep. Then he spoke. His eyes still closed.
"When you came to see me at Snapes you learned something about me that no one else knew." Harry said swallowing hard and clenching his jaw.
George clasped his hands in his lap to keep them from shaking.
"I never wanted anyone to find out, but when Snape did the diagnostic…I read it too. I knew what he had read. Knew the conclusion he would come too. When we went over it though I refused to talk about it. I thought if I didn't acknowledge it, If I just ignored it, then maybe I could keep pretending it hadn't happened." Harry said softly.
George noticed how detached Harry's voice was and wondered if the calming draught was making him sleepy.
"But…But it did happen. I told Snape so much. Not just what happened when I was a kid...But…" Harry cut himself off and shook his head a little.
George felt the anger swelling in him. Harry was still a kid. He shouldn't have had to suffer the way he had.
"I couldn't do anything when I was little. How could I have fought back…but when I was older…I… I was a wizard. I had magic. I was in a world full of magic. I should have fought back. I should have done something." Harry said angerly.
George also felt angry. When did this happen? Harry was almost always with his family in the Wixen world. Had something happened at school?
"I told Snape and I…I don't know how I'm going to go back to that house. How I'm ever going to look him in the face again. He must be revolted. I'm so weak…" Harry growled banging his head into the wall a little.
"Harry, I'm sure he doesn't feel that way." George tried to reassure.
A sick look came over his face.
"I wish it could just be over. It's bad enough that I told him…But I know that he's going to have more questions." Harry sighed.
"Why did I do it. Why did I tell him?" Harry said brokenly before looking at George with pleading eyes.
George felt his throat go dry at being put on the spot. He lifted his glass and took a sip, hoping to give himself a minute. George felt that Harry was hanging by a thread. If he said the wrong thing it might be Harry's breaking point.
"Harry, I…I think you told him because you needed to. You can't keep it all bottled up inside. You'll drowned in it. I think having Fred and I to help you at the end of the summers was like a slow release. It let you get a little of it out…. And I think maybe this summer just kind of broke the bottle. Once Snape found out, I think…I think it just opened the tap for it to all come out. Trauma's a poison Harry. Keeping it in is just poisoning you. You need to let it out. You have a lot of people willing to listen. People who won't judge you or think less of you." George said.
He watched Harry carefully, waiting to see if it had been the right thing or if he'd royally screwed up.
Harry had a small trickle of tears on his cheeks again and a pained look on his face. He turned away from George and to his relief nodded.
"Yeah…Yeah maybe your right." Harry whispered.
"Still hurts." Harry added softly.
George nodded.
"Yeah, I'm sure it does. We can help with that too." George said softly.
Harry sighed and nodded. His eyes slipped shut again and he yawned.
George smiled sadly at Harry.
"Come on. You need some sleep." George said, standing and holding his hand out to Harry.
Harry opened his eyes and nodded. He reached out and took George's hand.
They stood facing each other for a moment and then George held his arms open. A moment later Harry was leaning into his chest. He wrapped his arms around him and held him close for a few minutes.
George gave him one last squeeze and let go.
"Come on." George said softly flipping the blankets back on his bed.
Harry hesitated for a moment but then kicked of his trainers and climbed into the bed. He sighed deeply.
George smiled and pulled the blanket over him and headed to the door.
"George." Harry called.
George turned to look at Harry.
"Will…Will you stay?" Harry asked softly.
George smiled and nodded.
He pulled a quilt his mother had made off the top of his wardrobe and kicked off his shoes. He laid down on top of the blankets and draped the quilt over him.
His bed was big, and he was able to leave Harry plenty of space. He laid on his back and folded his arms behind his head. He stared at the ceiling and slowly let his eyes close.
George took slow deep breaths and tried to relax. Today had been stressful.
The bed wiggled a little as Harry seemed to be getting settled in.
George's eyes popped open when he felt Harry bump into his side. He'd thought Harry was just rolling over and was worried he was still too close. However, when he looked down, he saw that Harry had pulled the blankets tight under his chin and snuggled into his side.
He smiled sadly down at the mop of black hair. Harry had known far too much cruelty in his life. He deserved to experience kindness and comfort.
If a little physical comfort is what Harry needed right now, George was happy to be a safe person for him to experience that with.
George slowly lowered his arm and wrapped it protectively around Harry's shoulders.
"Is this okay?" George murmured softly.
Harry's eyes never opened as he smiled a little and nodded, then burrowing in tighter.
George smiled and closed his eyes.
George woke to the smell of bacon cooking. He groaned at the thought of his mother's cooking. His brain slowly woke, and he remembered he wasn't at the Burrow. His eyes cracked open in brief confusion. He and Fred rarely bothered making breakfast. It was usually tea and toast before they headed to the shop.
He glanced down and saw the quilt that was tangled around him and remembered what had happened last night.
He threw the blanket off and padded into the sitting room. Fred was sitting on the couch and shot him a questioning look.
"When I said you needed a date, I hadn't thought you'd end up with Harry in your bed." Fred joked with a little smirk.
George's jaw clenched and he shook his head.
"It wasn't like that." George said seriously.
Fred's brows drew together, and he nodded.
"Sorry. You know I make jokes when I'm uncomfortable. Is he okay?" Fred asked softly.
George sighed.
"No. Not really. Better than he was, I suppose." George said, running a hand through his messy hair.
Fred nodded.
"Is there anything we can do?" Fred asked.
George considered for a moment and shook his head.
"I think all we can do now is hope the adults are able to help him. Try and encourage Harry to rely on them." George said sadly.
Harry really wasn't doing well and it didn't seem like anyone was paying any attention. It was disappointing really. He and Fred had talked about telling there parents for years, but never broke Harry's trust. Not until they didn't feel they had any other choice.
Now, it seemed like telling hadn't improved anything. Harry was more stressed now then they had ever seen him.
"He insisted on making breakfast." Fred said motioning towards the kitchen.
George nodded.
"Do you want me to open today? Give you a little more time. Snape didn't say when he needed to be back, just today." Fred asked, his voice full of concern.
George considered. He would like to make sure Harry was actually okay before he sent him back.
George nodded.
"Yeah. I just want to make sure he's good. Did Snape say why he ran off?" George asked.
He doubted Snape would have told Fred about the conversation with Harry, but he supposed it was possible.
Fred nodded.
"Snapes got Malfoy staying there now. Guess we should have guessed when we saw them both on Friday. Malfoy locked Harry in the bathroom." Fred said with a slight growl.
George clenched his jaw. Harry did not need that kind of petty bullshit triggering him right now. He was too close to the edge for that.
"Prat." George spat.
Fred nodded.
They headed into the small kitchen and George smiled at Harry bustling around the now clean kitchen.
They pulled out chairs at the table and Harry turned and gave them a half smile.
"Hope you're hungry." Harry said softly.
"Smells good." George said.
A few minutes later Harry placed food in the middle of the table. It was enough to rival his mother's and smelled just as good.
"Thanks' Harry. This is nice. Don't think we've had a real breakfast here." Fred said with a smile.
Harry blushed and looked away from them.
George saw Harry hesitate for a moment but then he took a seat as well.
They ate in a comfortable silence.
When the meal was over Fred stood and smiled, patting his stomach.
"You're always welcome to come back Harry. Don't tell mum but I think you might make better pancakes." Fred said with a wink.
Harry blushed again and shook his head.
"Next time I'll know you're not a werewolf here to eat George." Fred said with a laugh.
Harry grimaced.
"Sorry." Harry said softly.
"Nah, it's brilliant. No one would dare mess with you in that form. Wish I'd thought of the possibilities. The others aren't Animagi are they? I could see Ron being something absolutely ridiculous, like a parakeet or something." Fred grinned.
Harry shook his head.
"No. Not that I know of." Harry answered.
"Right then. Well, the shop won't run itself. I'll see you 'round Harry. Come by any time." Fred said with a wave before disappearing out the door.
George stood and helped Harry clear the table. There was a slight awkwardness and George hoped it would dissipate.
When the kitchen was cleaned, they stood there quietly. George searched his mind for something to say.
"I'm sorry if I upset you." George started with.
Harry looked at him a little sadly and shook his head.
"Thank you for staying with me…I um…I don't know. I just didn't want to be alone." Harry whispered, wrapping his arms around himself.
"Don't do that Harry." George said softly.
"What?" Harry whispered.
"Doubt yourself. Dismiss your own needs. Let your brain lie to you about what you're worth. You're a good person Harry and you deserve good things. You deserve comfort." George said firmly.
Harry bit his lip and shrugged a little.
"How are you feeling today?" George asked.
Harry sighed.
"I don't know. Better, I guess. I still don't want to go back. He's going to have more questions." Harry said.
George nodded.
"Did you tell him who it was?" George asked.
Harry shook his head.
"Can you tell me?" George asked hesitantly.
Harry shook his head again, his hands fidgeting with the hem of his shirt.
George sighed.
George knew Harry was afraid of how Snape would treat him. He didn't understand that Snape was likely just as angry as George was feeling right now.
George considered for a moment before he spoke.
"Fred and I went on a double date last night." George said casually.
Harry looked at him curiously.
"He keeps telling me I need to get out. I've been moping around here too much, I guess." George said with a shrug.
"Anyhow, we went out to dinner. The guy seemed nice enough. Little quiet starting out but he was at dinner with a group of strangers, so I understood. Not long after we all got settled, he started getting handsy under the table. I pushed his hand away, even left the table for a few minutes. He just wasn't getting that I wasn't interested in that." George explained.
Harry's jaw clenched and his hands fisted at his sides. His eyes even seemed to be glowing. The raw magical power almost seemed to swirl around Harry. However, it was exactly the emotion he wanted to invoke in Harry.
"What are you feeling right now?" George asked after letting his words sink in.
Harry's mouth pinched a little and he shook his head.
"Like if I don't start breathing, I'm going to burn your flat down. How dare he touch you like that!" Harry growled.
George nodded his head.
"Are you disgusted by me? See me as weak for 'letting' that happen?" George asked.
Harry seemed to deflate as he realized what George was getting at.
Harry shook his head.
George nodded.
"I promise you Harry, that's how we feel. We're enraged that someone hurt you. I've felt that way since I was fourteen and helped heal you at the end of summer. It guts me to know how much pain you've been through. Snape isn't going to be disgusted by you. If anything, he's feeling disgusted with a world that allowed that to happen to you." George said earnestly.
Harry sighed and nodded, he looked so dejected.
"I know it's hard. You're so strong though Harry. You can do this. I promise things will get better." George said.
Harry nodded.
"What happened to your 'date'?" Harry asked, spatting the word date like it was poison.
George smiled.
"Fred and Angie laughed him out of the restaurant. Pretty sure Fred hit him with a jinx on the way out." George said with a little smile. His brother had always been his biggest defender. He'd be lost without him.
Harry nodded firmly in approval.
"Good." Harry said with a growl.
"Are you okay?" Harry asked, his brows furrowed in concern.
George smiled a little.
"I'm fine. Unfortunately dating is full of risks. Some people are great, and some like that guy just think it's all about what they want. Wanker wasn't even that good looking'. Don't know what Angie was thinking setting me up with him." George laughed.
Harry smiled a little.
"It's going to be weird not having you all at school this year." Harry said thoughtfully.
George gave him a sad smile.
"Will make sure to meet up in Hogsmeade. Have to keep an eye on Ron." George said with a smile.
Harry smiled back and nodded before his face fell and he sighed.
"When do I have to go back?" Harry asked, resignation thick in his voice.
George checked the clock. It was only a little after nine.
"I think you can probably stay for a while. You want to play a game of Gobstones?" George offered.
Harry quirked a little smile and nodded.
Harry sighed as he stood in the sitting room of Spinner's End. He'd stayed with George for a couple of hours. He'd been avoiding going back to Snapes, but eventually he'd begun to feel bad that he was keeping George from work.
George had hesitantly asked a few questions while they played. Ones Harry eventually answered. George had wanted to know about the times he'd been attacked in the wizarding world. He'd looked like he was going to be sick when Harry told him about the Quidditch cup.
He hadn't wanted to tell George because he had been there. He could see the guilt on his face, and it made Harry feel even worse.
He tried to reassure George, but he didn't think it was making much of a difference.
Harry had felt the shame building back up in his stomach.
George had told him that if anyone ever bothered him, even if it wasn't that serious, he needed to go to someone.
With another sigh Harry walked into the hall and listened. He could hear soft voices in the kitchen and assumed Snape and Malfoy were eating lunch. He walked on shaky legs until he made it to the door. He bit his lip and peered in. He was immediately met with two sets of eyes. His cheeks blushed crimson, and he twisted his hands.
"Have you eaten lunch?" Snape asked.
Harry nodded.
He hadn't, but he was still full from breakfast and was hoping Snape would just excuse him upstairs.
"Very well. We're just finishing. I'd like us all to sit down for a few minutes." Snape said standing up.
Harry swallowed hard and nodded, keeping his eyes down and his hands clasped in front of him.
"Draco, please clean up and then join us." Snape said sweeping out the door and passed Harry.
Harry straightened his back and with a deep breath followed Snape.
Severus had already had a rather stressful day. The mutts had called several times to see if Harry was back yet. He had finally snapped at Lupin and told him not to call again. He knew they were worried, but he would call when he returned.
Then he'd had an unexpected call from Arthur Weasley. He had called to check on Harry and Severus had reassured him the boy was fine. He hadn't seemed reassured, and Severus had said when he returned from town this evening, he'd have the boy call.
Draco had been in a surprisingly docile mood all day. Severus hoped it would continue. Perhaps things could just be calm for a few days. He'd like to think it could last longer than that. However, with Harry things never seemed to stay calm.
Severus sat in his chair and crossed his legs and then folded his hands in his lap.
"Have a seat." Severus said neutrally.
Harry twisted his hands and was keeping his eyes down.
Severus sighed.
"Please." Severus said softly.
Harry glanced at him through his fringe before he sat hesitantly at the edge of the chair.
Severus sighed. It was like they were starting all over.
"Are you injured?" Severus asked.
Harry's arms wrapped tightly around his waist.
"I saw the razor and the blood." Severus stated.
The boy's cheeks blushed darkly.
"I'm sorry." Harry murmured.
Severus groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose.
"We can discuss it later if you wish. However, if you are injured, I'd like to heal your injuries before Draco joins us." Severus said.
Harry sighed and nodded.
Severus nodded and walked to Harry. He held out his hand and Harry tentatively set his hand in Severus'.
Severus pushed the long blue sleeves up his skinny arm and fought a wince at the sight. There were dozens of angry red marks across his arm starting at his wrist and stopping just before his elbow.
With a sigh Severus held his wand and went over each mark with a quick incantation that left a light pink scar in place of the angry red marks.
Severus grit his teeth as he healed Harry's other arm. It was nearly as bad. This was a desperate cry for help, and he needed to find a way to help him before Harry did something more permanent.
Severus released the arm and Harry pushed his sleeves down.
"Thank you." Harry mumbled quietly, keeping his head down.
Severus sighed and returned to his seat. They sat in awkward silence for a few minutes before Draco joined them, taking a seat on the couch.
Severus took a deep breath and leaned forward, his forearms resting on his thighs as he studied both boys.
Harry was fidgeting in his seat and staring resolutely at the floor. Draco was twiddling his thumbs and biting his lip. They both looked terribly uncomfortable. Severus knew he needed to manage this with care if they were all going to see the end of summer.
"We need to discuss several things. I would ask that you allow me to speak uninterrupted." Severus said.
When both boys nodded, he continued.
"This arrangement has not gotten off to a good start and I will take some responsibility for that. You have both had exceedingly trying summers. I am trying my best to accommodate both of your needs. I am…unfamiliar with how to oversee this unique situation. My experience primarily lies with Head of house duties, which I take very seriously." Severus explained.
"That being said I think things might run smoother with a few more rules in place. I am basing these rules on ones I use in Slytherin house. So, Draco, I expect that none of these will be a surprise to you. However, I'm sure you are unaccustomed to practicing them over your summer Holiday." Severus said meeting Draco's eye.
The boy nodded and Severus continued.
"First of all, everyone in this house will be present for all meals." Severus said.
Harry's head shot up and there was obvious protest on his lips. Severus raised his hand and Harry lowered his head again.
"Harry, I understand that you might go into town during the day and will not be present for Lunch. However, I still expect you to be present for breakfast and dinner. You are still expected to eat something for lunch, and you know I have my ways of checking, don't make me feel that I need to use them." Severus said firmly.
Harry nodded.
"Secondly, I have created a chore chart I expect you both to follow. Unless the task is punishment based you may use magic. If you do not know the incantation, you will come to me, and I will teach it to you. You will not experiment unsupervised." Severus said clearly.
"Third, you will not cast on one another for any reason. This includes anything that may cause distress to anyone in this house. This is not Gryffindor tower, or apparently Slytherin dorm and we will not be 'pranking' one another." Severus said sternly, while he watched Draco squirm.
"You are both welcome to come to me with concerns and I will make myself available. If this is in regard to the other occupant of the house the three of us will sit down like this and discuss it maturely." Severus said, eyeing both boys.
"Next, I would like you both to agree to a code of silence. Anything that happens in this house that is not about yourself will remain in this house. You will not be going back to school to gossip about me or each other. Is that clear?" Severus asked.
Once he received nods from them both he continued.
"Finally, every evening after dinner we will be adjourning to the sitting room for a minimum of one hour. I expect you two to speak civilly to one another. I don't care if it's about the weather or quidditch or transfiguration homework. What I do care about is that you both learn to have a civil conversation with someone even if you dislike them. I will be present, but you are free to put up silencing spells if you choose, unless it becomes evident that your conversation can not remain civil in those conditions." Severus explained.
"Really Sev, First year rules. You're going to make us Snake buddies?" Draco whined.
Severus rolled his eyes at the silly term his house had come up with.
"Yes, Draco, I am." Severus said clearly.
Harry had a confused look on his face.
"What Draco is referring to is a practice I put in place many years ago in Slytherin house. Each first year was assigned a partner in there year and the pair were partnered with a pair of older students. First years were paired with third, Second with Forth, and Third with sixth. The Seventh years were expected to focus on their studies and be role models for all the younger students." Severus explained.
"The pairs would meet for an hour after dinner, before attending to their studies. They were encouraged to study with their partner though it wasn't enforced. This is what I intend to be happening in this house. We will have dinner. Then we will take turns clearing the kitchen. When that is finished we will all come here. If you wish to study here after that is your choice. This will begin this evening." Severus concluded.
He watched the boys carefully. Harry seemed resigned and Draco seemed annoyed, but they would adjust. At least he hoped.
"Is that understood?" Severus asked.
"Yes, Sir." Both boys answered.
Severus nodded.
"Is there anything you would like to say Draco?" Severus prompted after a minute.
Draco straightened and turned towards Harry.
"I apologize for hexing you. It was wrong and I won't do it again. I also apologize for locking the bathroom door. I didn't intend to…to frighten you. We…." Draco trailed off and shook his head.
Severus was thankful that Draco did not try to excuse his behavior. Perhaps there would be time to explain why he had done it. Now wasn't the time.
"I'm sorry." Draco finished.
Harry studied Draco as he spoke. Severus suspected he was using Legilimens. Not intentionally, as he had not cast the spell, but with Harry's natural ability and high level of magic he was able to easily read emotions. It wasn't typically considered polite, but he knew Harry didn't really know how to turn it off. He hoped Draco was being sincere.
"I have decided that Harry will be choosing your punishment for casting on him." Severus said and both boys' heads whipped around to face Severus.
Draco's mouth hung open, indignation clear on his face. Surely the boy thought there long discussion yesterday was his punishment. However, what Lupin had said had left an impact. He did not want this to be another injustice to Harry.
Harry looked surprised. His eyes wide and doubtful.
Severus nodded and waited.
Harry looked back down at his hands that were twisting in his lap.
They sat there silently for a while and Severus wondered what Harry would think was just punishment. Draco's knee bounced with impatience, and Severus was half tempted to send a sticking charm at him.
The silence was finally broken when Harry raised his head and met Draco's eyes.
"Just don't do it again. Okay? I…I think you've been through enough this summer." Harry said softly.
Draco's bouncing knee stopped, and he stared at Harry before turning a questioning look at Severus.
"Very well." Severus said with a nod.
He wasn't surprised by the grace that Harry was giving Draco. Harry was very forgiving. He did wonder however if it was forgiveness or if it was simply hoping not to cause further conflict.
"Is there anything else that either of you would like to address before we move on with our day?" Severus asked.
Draco shook his head and leaned back on the couch.
Harry seemed to be fidgeting again. He glanced through his fringe at both of them and then took a deep breath.
"Which of you went through my trunk?" Harry asked softly.
Severus turned and glared at Draco. The boy apparently couldn't help but dig a deeper hole for himself.
Draco looked abashed.
"Sorry." Draco muttered.
Severus cleared his throat and both boys looked at him.
"I will make this clear. No one in this house is to enter anyone else's room without permission or an immediate emergency. Am I clear?" Severus said in a low tone.
Both boys nodded and Severus nodded back.
"Very well. You are both free to do as you please until dinner. I will post the chore chart on the refrigerator." Severus said, standing from his seat.
There was a bit of awkward hesitation before both boys quietly exited the room and went up to their bedrooms. He listened for a few minutes and when it sounded like they had both reached their rooms without issue Severus headed back to the kitchen.
He hoped today would be a quiet day. This evening would likely be a different story. However, he hoped forcing the boys to talk a little would help Draco settle in. It might also bring Harry out of his shell. He had been doing okay until Draco arrived and Severus was concerned about what would happen if things continued to go this way. There were several things that needed to be addressed with Harry, but they could all wait a day or two.
Severus kept an ear out for any sounds from upstairs as he made himself some tea. When he had still heard nothing buy time his tea was made, he sighed and headed to the lab.