Disclaimer: I only own the plot , if any text from original source is used then they would belong to one and only J.K. Rowling. Hope You Like it.
Draco glanced at his watch, his expression turning serious. "I should be going," he said. "Before my father suspects something."
Neville and Hermione nodded in agreement. "We should probably head home too," Neville said. "Now that we know you're awake and alright, Harry."
Hermione smiled, giving Harry a gentle hug. "We'll come visit again soon," she promised.
The three of them stepped into the fireplace, disappearing in a swirl of flames as they Flooed back to their respective homes.
Just as they left, Amelia Bones and her niece Susan entered the room, looking elegant and poised despite their late arrival. "Harry, dear, I'm so glad to see you're awake," Amelia said, her eyes warm with concern.
Susan smiled, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Are you feeling alright, Harry?" she asked.
Amelia gestured discreetly, and Susan nodded, taking the hint. "I'll just go freshen up," she said, slipping out of the room.
Ron, who had been quietly observing the scene, also stood up, yawning. "I'm going to go crash," he said, grinning at Harry. "See you in the morning, mate."
As Ron left the room, Amelia's expression turned serious, her eyes narrowing into a sharp, professional gaze. "Harry, I need to ask you some questions," she said, her voice firm but gentle.
Harry felt a shiver run down his spine as Amelia slipped into her Head of DMLE mode. He knew she was going to ask him about his life at the Dursleys, and he steeled himself for the ordeal.
He wished Ginny was there with him, holding his hand and offering her silent support. But for now, he was alone, facing the darkness of his past with Amelia's guidance.
Amelia's questions had been relentless, but eventually, she nodded, seeming to conclude her interrogation. Harry felt a mix of relief and exhaustion wash over him. He couldn't help but think that Sirius would be brave if he and Amelia ever became an item. Until now, Harry had only seen Amelia's concerned and caring side, but today, he had glimpsed the tough, no-nonsense Head of DMLE.
"The head of Child Healthcare and Abuse Department is Patricia Moon," Amelia said, her expression softening.
At the mention of the name, Harry's mind shook as he remembered his fellow classmate, Lily Moon, a Hufflepuff student. "Is she related to Lily Moon?" Harry asked, curiosity getting the better of him.
Amelia smiled, and Harry noticed that her professional mode had slipped away, revealing her casual, friendly self. "Yes, she's Lily's mother," Amelia replied.
Amelia continued, explaining that she had spoken with Patricia and that Harry's abuse case against the Dursleys had been filed. In a few days, Harry would need to provide his account, and after that, the case would be finalized, and a trial would be conducted.
"Though Dumbledore and I have managed to keep it confidential for now, it's bound to come out soon," Amelia said, her eyes sparkling with a hint of resignation. "You are, after all, Harry Potter."
Harry groaned, feeling a familiar frustration with his fame. "I really hate being famous," he muttered.
Amelia's expression turned sympathetic. "I know, Harry. But in this case, your fame might actually work in our favor. The Ministry might decide to conduct a full court trial against the Dursleys, with the entire Wizengamot present."
Harry's heart sank at the mention of the Wizengamot. He still remembered the corrupt members who had wrongly convicted Sirius. "Wizengamot," he repeated, feeling a shiver run down his spine.
As Ginny finished preparing Daisy for the possibility of seeing Harry injured, Daisy looked up at her with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Ginny, is Harry going to be okay?" Daisy asked, her voice soft and gentle.
Ginny smiled reassuringly. "Yes, Daisy, Harry is going to be just fine. He's a bit battered and bruised, but he's strong and he's getting better every day."
Daisy nodded, seeming to accept Ginny's words. Ginny was pleased to see that the treatment was having a positive effect on Daisy. She was looking more confident and less scared with each passing day.
Ginny hoped that once the treatment was complete, Daisy would be perfectly normal and maybe even a bit mischievous. She smiled to herself, imagining Daisy and Harry getting into all sorts of trouble together.
As she looked at Daisy, Ginny couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. What would happen once Daisy's treatment was complete? Would they discover that she was indeed Harry's long-lost sister? Ginny pushed the thoughts aside, reminding herself that she and Harry had decided not to tell Daisy about the possibility until she was fully recovered.
For now, Ginny was just happy to see Daisy smiling and looking more like her old self. "Get some rest, Daisy," Ginny said, smiling. "You can visit Harry tomorrow, and I'm sure he'll be thrilled to see you."
Ginny entered the room, closing the door softly behind her. Harry was sitting up in bed, looking a bit more relaxed now that Amelia had left. Ginny smiled, crossing the room to sit beside him.
"How did it go?" Ginny asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Harry sighed, rubbing his temples. "It was...intense," he said. "Amelia asked me a lot of questions about my life with the Dursleys."
Ginny's expression turned sympathetic. "I'm sorry, Harry," she said. "That must have been really tough for you."
Harry nodded, but then a small smile played on his lips. "But I'm just glad it's all out in the open now," he said. "And Amelia seems really determined to make sure the Dursleys pay for what they did."
Ginny smiled, taking Harry's hand in hers. "I'm sure they will," she said. "Amelia's not someone to be underestimated."
As they talked, Ginny filled Harry in on what she had been doing while Amelia was questioning him. "I was with Daisy," she said. "Preparing her to visit you tomorrow."
Harry's eyes lit up with excitement. "How's she doing?" he asked.
Ginny smiled. "She's doing really well," she said. "The treatment is definitely helping her. And she's really excited to see you tomorrow."
As the evening wore on, the door to Harry's room opened once again, and in walked Healer Pyre Jones, hand in hand with Charlie Weasley. Harry's eyes widened in surprise, and a smirk spread across his face.
"Congratulations, you two!" Harry exclaimed, his voice filled with warmth.
Charlie chuckled, looking a bit sheepish. "Well, it was about time, don't you think?" he said, grinning at Pyre.
Pyre blushed, smiling at Charlie before turning her attention to Harry. "I'm just glad to see you're doing so well, Harry," she said, her eyes shining with professional interest.
As Charlie left the room, Pyre began to examine Harry's injuries, her expression turning thoughtful. "I must say, Harry, your injuries are healing at a truly remarkable rate," she said. "Almost...miraculous."
Ginny smiled, watching as Pyre worked. "We've noticed that before, haven't we, Harry?" she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Pyre nodded, making a note on her clipboard. "Yes, I recall the last time I treated you, Harry. Your injuries healed at an incredible rate then, too."
As Pyre finished her examination, she smiled at Harry. "You're stable now, Harry. I don't think Snape or Madam Pomfrey will need to come check on you, at least not for now. But they may still come to visit, of course."
With that, Pyre left the room, leaving Harry and Ginny alone once again. Just as they were settling in, Ginny's eyes lit up. "Look, Harry! Hedwig's here!"
Ginny got up to take the letter from Hedwig's leg, and Harry's eyes widened as he saw the familiar handwriting on the envelope. "It's from Gran Minnie!" he exclaimed.
Ginny smiled, handing Harry the letter. As he read, his face lit up with a warm smile.
"What does it say?" Ginny asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
Harry looked up, his eyes shining. "Gran Minnie says she's sorry she couldn't visit today, but she had to go deliver a Hogwarts letter to a new Muggleborn student. She promises to come visit tomorrow, though."
Grandma Mrs. Tucker smiled warmly as she settled the dinner tray onto Harry's bedside table. The aroma of roasted chicken and steaming vegetables wafted up, making Harry's stomach growl with hunger.
"Just for tonight, dear," Grandma Mrs. Tucker said, noticing Harry's disappointed expression. "But don't worry, from tomorrow morning, you'll be allowed to leave your room and join the others for meals."
Harry groaned, feeling a bit trapped. He hated being stuck in bed, missing out on all the fun and conversation downstairs. But then he glanced over at Ginny, who was sitting beside him, looking lovely in the soft evening light.
"I don't want you to get stuck with me," Harry said, feeling a bit guilty. He didn't want Ginny to miss out on the evening's festivities just because she was taking care of him.
Ginny smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'm not going anywhere, Harry Potter," she said, her voice low and husky. "You're stuck with me for life."
Harry's heart skipped a beat at her words, and he felt a rush of excitement. Suddenly, dinner alone with Ginny didn't seem so bad after all. In fact, it could be quite...romantic.
As Grandma Mrs. Tucker left the room, Ginny leaned over and kissed Harry softly on the cheek. "Let's make the most of this dinner, shall we?" she whispered, her breath tickling Harry's ear.
Harry grinned, feeling his spirits lift. With Ginny by his side, even a boring dinner in bed could become a magical experience.
After dinner, the women in Harry's life descended upon him, armed with bandages, ointments, and gentle hands. Mrs. Weasley, Grandma Mrs. Tucker, and Ginny worked together to carefully change the dressings on Harry's battered and scarred body.
Harry felt a mix of emotions as he lay there, exposed and vulnerable. On one hand, he was grateful for their care and concern. On the other hand, he was embarrassed to have them see him like this, especially Grandma Mrs. Tucker and Mrs. Weasley, who were mothering him in a way that was both comforting and mortifying.
But Ginny was different. She had seen him at his worst before, and he knew she wouldn't flinch or fuss. As they worked on his wounds, Harry caught her eye and smiled wryly. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?" he teased.
Ginny grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Maybe just a little," she admitted, her fingers gentle as she applied a soothing ointment to a particularly nasty scar.
Despite the awkwardness of the situation, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude and love for these women, who were taking care of him with such kindness and devotion. And as he looked at his body, still strong and muscular despite the scars and bruises, he felt a surge of pride and determination. He would get through this, with their help, and come out even stronger on the other side.
As the night drew to a close, Harry thanked Mrs. Weasley and Grandma Mrs. Tucker for their care and concern. They smiled and bid him a good night's rest, leaving the room with gentle whispers.
Ginny, who had slipped into the bathroom to change, emerged in a soft, flowing nightgown that caught Harry's eye. He smiled, feeling a flutter in his chest as she approached him.
Without a word, Ginny slid into bed beside him, and they turned off the light source, plunging the room into a warm, comforting darkness. As they snuggled together, Ginny felt a sense of ease wash over her, unlike the previous night when Harry's injuries had been more severe.
She was still careful, though, not wanting to hurt him inadvertently. Harry always told her that her touch never hurt him, but Ginny wasn't sure if he meant it or just said it to be romantic.
As they drifted off to sleep, Ginny's hand rested lightly on Harry's chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. She smiled to herself, knowing that she would always be there to take care of him, no matter what.
That night, in the secret dreamland that only they shared, Harry and Ginny strolled hand in hand through a lush, vibrant forest. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the soft chirping of birds could be heard in the distance.
In this dreamland, Harry's injuries and bandages were nowhere to be seen, but deep down, they still lingered. It was as if their dreamland was a reflection of their true desires - a world where pain and suffering didn't exist.
As they walked, a magnificent phoenix appeared in the sky, its feathers a dazzling mixture of fiery red and emerald green. This was Hinny, the phoenix that had been born from the love and special bond that Harry and Ginny shared.
Hinny swooped down, its eyes shining with happiness. "I'm so glad that the truth about Harry's abuse is finally out," Hinny said, its voice like music. "And that he's receiving the treatment he needs."
Ginny's eyes widened in surprise. "You knew about Harry's abuse?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Hinny nodded its great head. "Yes, I did. As a phoenix bonded to both of you, I'm aware of the deepest secrets and emotions that you both carry. However, I couldn't reveal the truth to you, Ginny, because Harry hadn't shared it with you himself."
Hinny's eyes shone with a deep wisdom. "And as a phoenix that only exists in this dreamland, I'm not yet strong enough to materialize in the real world. Until that day comes, I'm bound by the secrets that you both keep."
After Hinny's departure, Harry and Ginny continued their leisurely stroll through the dreamland forest. However, Ginny's mind was still reeling from the revelation about Harry's abuse. She walked beside him in silence, her eyes cast downward as she processed her emotions.
Harry, sensing her unease, reached out and gently took her hand. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft with concern.
Ginny looked up at him, a faint smile on her lips. "Yeah, I'm fine," she said. "Just a bit...shaken, I suppose."
Harry nodded understandingly, and they continued walking in comfortable silence. But their peaceful interlude was short-lived, as the dreamland world around them began to shake and tremble.
They exchanged a knowing glance. "Time to wake up," Harry said, smiling wryly.
As the dreamland dissolved around them, they opened their eyes to find themselves snuggled closely together in Harry's bed. They smiled at each other, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment.
"It's rather nice to sleep snuggled up together," Ginny said, her voice husky with sleep.
Harry nodded in agreement, wrapping his arms around her. "Definitely," he said, pulling her close.
Ginny stood up, stretching her arms over her head, and then turned to help Harry out of bed. Despite his protests, she insisted on supporting him, saying, "You still need help, Harry. Your injuries may be healing fast, but they're still there."
Harry couldn't argue with that, so he leaned on Ginny as they made their way to the bathroom. As they walked, he felt a surge of excitement. "Today's the day I get to leave this room!" he exclaimed, grinning at Ginny.
Ginny smiled back, helping him into the bathroom. "That's right, and you'll get to join everyone downstairs for meals. I'm sure they're all eager to see you."
As Ginny helped him into the shower, Harry felt a sense of relief wash over him. He hadn't bathed in three days, and it felt amazing to finally be clean. When he emerged from the shower, wrapped in a towel, Ginny was waiting with his clothes.
"Thanks, Gin," he said, smiling at her.
Ginny smiled back and then headed into the shower herself. When she emerged, she was dressed in one of Harry's t-shirts and a pair of shorts. Harry's eyes widened in appreciation.
"You look great," he said, grinning at her.
Ginny blushed, smiling back at him. "Thanks, Harry. You don't look so bad yourself."
Just as Harry and Ginny were about to head downstairs, Daisy walked into the room, her eyes scanning Harry's face with concern. Her expression faltered as she took in the sight of Harry's battered and bruised body.
"Oh, Harry!" Daisy exclaimed, her voice trembling. "What happened to you?"
Harry and Ginny exchanged a knowing glance, both thinking the same thing - it was a good thing Daisy hadn't been allowed to visit Harry two days ago, when his injuries were even more severe.
"It's okay, Daisy," Harry said reassuringly, trying to downplay his injuries. "I'm fine. Just a few bumps and bruises."
But Daisy's eyes were fixed on the bandages and scars that covered Harry's skin. She looked like she was about to cry.
Ginny stepped forward, putting a comforting arm around Daisy's shoulders. "Hey, it's okay, Daisy. Harry's going to be just fine. He's healing really fast."
Daisy nodded slowly, still looking worried, but Ginny's words seemed to reassure her a little.
As Daisy's worry began to fade, Harry and Ginny exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes locking in a silent understanding. They had been wanting to discuss something important with Daisy, and today seemed like the perfect opportunity.
"Hey, Daisy, can we talk to you about something?" Harry asked, his voice gentle, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled.
Daisy looked up at him curiously, her hazel eyes sparkling with interest. "What is it, Harry?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ginny took a deep breath before speaking, her chest rising and falling with the movement. "We've told you that Harry wants to adopt you as his sister, but there's something more we want to share with you," she said, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
Daisy's eyes widened slightly, and she leaned in, intrigued, her face tilted to one side. "What is it?" she asked again, her voice filled with anticipation.
Harry took over, his voice filled with emotion, his eyes shining with a deep sincerity. "Daisy, we think it's possible that you might be my real sister," he said, the words tumbling out of his mouth in a rush.
Daisy's eyes went wide, and she looked like she had been punched in the gut. "What do you mean?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Ginny stepped in, explaining their theory, her words spilling out in a gentle, soothing cadence. "You look so much like Harry's mom, Lily Potter," she said, her eyes locked on Daisy's face. "And your eyes, they're like James Potter's. We think it's possible that you might be Harry's sister, the one who survived that Halloween night all those years ago."
Daisy's face was a mix of shock, confusion, and hope, her emotions warring for dominance. She looked at Harry, her eyes searching for answers, her gaze piercing.
Harry smiled, taking her hand in his, his fingers wrapping around hers in a warm, comforting grasp. "We don't know for sure, Daisy," he said, his voice filled with reassurance. "But we want you to know that no matter what, you're family to us. And we'll support you every step of the way."
Harry, eager to change the subject, asked Daisy, "How's your health? Are you feeling better?"
Daisy nodded, a small smile on her face. "Yes, I'm better. Healer Pyre said I would need less sleep now, not 20 hours a day."
Ginny laughed as Daisy innocently asked, "Is there something going on between Pyre and Charlie?"
Harry smiled, pleased to see Daisy becoming more comfortable around others. Due to her constant sleeping, she had been unaware of the developments within the household.
"Let's go to breakfast downstairs," Harry said, his stomach growling with anticipation.
Daisy and Ginny helped Harry stand, and together they made their way to the dining room of Fawcett Manor. The room was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly cooked food.
As they entered, the room fell silent, with all eyes on Harry. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Grandma Mrs. Tucker, Amelia, Sirius, Remus, Susan, Ron, Percy, the twins, Charlie, and Dudley were already seated, waiting for them.
Ginny sat beside Harry, insisting that she would feed him. Harry didn't argue, knowing that he still needed assistance.
Daisy looked around, wide-eyed, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the dining room. This was her first time having breakfast with the group, as she was usually asleep at this time.
Twinky and Dimpy, the twin house-elves, scurried around, happy to serve the group. "Good morning, Master Harry! Good morning, Miss Ginny! Good morning, Miss Daisy!" they chimed in unison, their eyes shining with excitement.
The breakfast was a lively affair, with Ginny playfully forcing spoonfuls of food into Harry's mouth, much to his mock protest. "Ginny, stop! I'm not a child!" Harry exclaimed, laughing.
Ginny just grinned mischievously. "Oh, come on, Harry! You need to eat to get your strength back!"
However, the lighthearted atmosphere was momentarily dampened when Harry caught sight of Dudley's gloomy expression. Harry's thoughts inadvertently strayed to his unhappy childhood at the Dursleys, where he was never shown such care and affection.
Enough of those depressing thoughts, Harry told himself, shaking off the memories. He turned to Dudley and apologized, "Hey, Dudley, I'm sorry about what happened to your parents. I didn't mean to separate you from your family."
Dudley looked up, his eyes somber, but he shook his head. "It wasn't your decision, Harry. I'm the one who called the Aurors and had them arrested. It was my choice, not yours."
Harry nodded, feeling a pang of sympathy for his cousin. Despite their complicated past, Harry was genuinely sorry that Dudley had to go through this difficult time.
Dudley's question sparked a lively discussion around the table. "So, what house do you think I'll be in?" he asked, his eyes wide with curiosity.
The room erupted into a chorus of speculations, with everyone chiming in with their opinions. For Ginny, the consensus was unanimous: she would undoubtedly be a Gryffindor.
"I think Daisy will be a Ravenclaw," Ron said, grinning mischievously. "She's always been so clever."
But Daisy looked mortified at the prospect. "No, no, I don't want to be in any other house than Harry's," she said, her voice trembling.
Harry smiled reassuringly at her. "Don't worry, Daisy. The houses don't matter as much as you think. We've all tried to unite our yearmates from all four houses."
But Daisy still looked scared, overwhelmed by the prospect of the Wizarding World. Ginny reached out and took her hand, offering a comforting smile.
"It's okay, Daisy. We'll be with you every step of the way," Ginny said.
As for Dudley, the speculations continued, with some predicting he would be a Slytherin, while others thought he might be a Hufflepuff.
"I think he'll be a Gryffindor," Harry said, grinning at his cousin. "He's got the bravery and determination to make a great Gryffindor."
Dudley looked pleased at the prospect, a small smile playing on his lips.
Mrs. Weasley's expression turned scandalized at Amelia's suggestion, her eyes wide with surprise. "Amelia, I'm shocked! I thought you were a respectable member of society, being the head of the DMLE and all," she said, her voice dripping with mock horror.
Amelia chuckled, unfazed by Mrs. Weasley's teasing. "Oh, Molly, I'm just trying to add a bit of excitement to our lives," she said, winking at Remus.
Susan, sitting nearby, couldn't help but find the exchange amusing. She exchanged a knowing glance with Harry, both of them aware that Amelia's suggestion might have more to do with Sirius than actual betting.
Harry and Susan had been hoping that Sirius would realize his feelings for Amelia, and this might just be the push he needed. Ginny, sitting beside Harry, was also aware of the situation, having been filled in by Harry. However, Susan didn't know that Ginny was in on the secret, and the two girls weren't exactly friends, having not interacted much since Ginny hadn't attended Hogwarts the previous year.
As the conversation continued, Sirius caught Amelia's eye, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. Amelia's expression softened, and she smiled back at him, a spark of connection visible between them.
After breakfast, Daisy trudged off to her room, still in need of a significant amount of sleep as part of her treatment. Harry watched her go, feeling a pang of sympathy for his potential sister.
Grandma Mrs. Tucker, however, had other plans for Harry. "Time for you to rest, Harry," she said firmly, her eyes twinkling with a hint of sternness.
Harry pouted, feeling like he was being treated like a child. "Do I have to?" he asked, his voice laced with disappointment.
But Grandma Mrs. Tucker remained unmoved. "Yes, you do. You're still recovering, and you need your rest."
Ron, the twins, and Charlie, meanwhile, were busy making plans to play Quidditch. "Hey, Harry, want to join us?" Ron asked, before realizing that Harry was being sent to rest. "Oh, sorry mate."
The twins and Charlie eagerly invited Susan to join them instead. Ron, who had gotten to know Susan a bit over the summer, thought she would make a great addition to their group of friends, which Ginny affectionately called the "Five Musketeers" - Harry, Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Draco.
Ginny, sensing Harry's disappointment, leaned in and whispered, "I'll stay with you in your room, okay?"
Harry's face brightened at the prospect, and he agreed to head to his room, feeling a bit more cheerful with Ginny by his side.
Sirius entered the room, his eyes scanning the space before landing on Harry, who was sitting on his bed, looking rather determined. Ginny, sensing Harry's gesture, discreetly excused herself, leaving the two alone. She closed the door behind her, giving them the privacy they needed.
Harry didn't waste any time, his question direct and to the point. "Sirius, what do you feel about Amelia?" he asked, his eyes locked intensely on his godfather's.
Sirius's expression faltered, caught off-guard by Harry's blunt inquiry. He looked taken aback, as if he hadn't expected Harry to be so straightforward. "She's a great friend, Harry," he said finally, his voice measured. "She's helped me a lot... nothing more."
Harry's eyes narrowed, his voice firm but controlled. "Why don't you know that Amelia likes or loves you?" he pressed, his words dripping with a hint of accusation.
Sirius hesitated, his eyes darting around the room before returning to Harry's. He looked uncomfortable, as if he was struggling to find the right words. "Yes, I know," he admitted finally, his voice barely above a whisper.
Harry's anger flared, his words tumbling out in a rush. "Then why are you giving her hints and hopes if you don't feel the same way?" he demanded, his voice rising. "You're leading her on, Sirius, and it's not fair."
Sirius gulped, his Adam's apple bobbing up and down. Harry saw something flicker in his eyes, a deep-seated emotion that Sirius rarely revealed. He looked... haunted.
"Marlene," Sirius said, his voice cracking. "I've never really... moved on."
Harry's eyes widened in shock, his mind reeling from the revelation. He had never known about Sirius's past, about the fiancée he had lost. The circumstances of their relationship had never allowed for such intimate conversations.
Sirius's eyes locked onto Harry's, a deep sadness and longing reflected in their depths. For the first time, Harry glimpsed the complexities of his godfather's emotions, the scars that still lingered from his past.
Sirius took a deep breath, his eyes clouding over as he began to recount his story. "Marlene was your mother's best friend, Harry," he said, his voice trembling. "We met through Lily, and... well, we used to flirt, I suppose. But by our fifth year, we started dating seriously."
Harry listened, entranced, as Sirius's words painted a picture of a love that had blossomed in the midst of Hogwarts's magical world. Sirius's eyes sparkled with memories as he described Marlene's laughter, her smile, and her fierce spirit.
"As we grew older, our relationship deepened," Sirius continued, his voice cracking with emotion. "I proposed to her, and she said yes... We were engaged, Harry. We were going to spend the rest of our lives together."
Sirius's voice broke, and he paused, struggling to compose himself. Harry's heart ached as he watched his godfather's emotional turmoil.
"But then... she died," Sirius whispered, the words barely audible. "It was a few months before your parents... before they were killed. I was devastated, Harry. I felt like my world had been shattered."
Harry had only seen his godfather this emotional and vulnerable once before – when Sirius had talked about Harry's parents with him. The pain and sadness etched on Sirius's face were almost too much to bear.
Harry didn't know what to say or how to comfort his godfather, but he knew he had to do something. He opened his arms, and Sirius fell into them, embracing him tightly. For a long moment, they just held each other, the only sound Sirius's muffled sobs.
After a while, Sirius composed himself, his eyes still red-rimmed from his tears. He looked at Harry, his expression serious. "I can never give Marlene's place to anyone, Harry," he said, his voice firm. "I feel like I'd be betraying her if I did."
Harry nodded understandingly, but he also saw an opportunity to help his godfather. "You don't have to give anyone else Marlene's place, Sirius," he said gently. "You can make a new place for Amelia in your heart. It's not about replacing Marlene, but about finding room for someone new."
Sirius looked taken aback, clearly not expecting love advice from his godson. But Harry continued, his words heartfelt. "It's okay if you don't feel the same way about Amelia, Sirius. But it's not okay to suppress your feelings and think you're betraying Marlene. Do you really think Marlene would want you to brood for the rest of your life?"
Sirius's expression faltered, and he looked away, clearly torn. Harry's words had struck a chord, and he knew his godfather had a lot to think about.
Harry's expression turned stern, his eyes locked intensely on Sirius. "If you don't feel the same way about Amelia, at least don't lead her on," he said firmly, his voice filled with conviction. "It would break her heart, and it's already been broken once when you were with Marlene. Don't give her false hope, Sirius. That's not fair to her."
Sirius looked at Harry, a mix of surprise and admiration on his face. He had been told how mature Harry was, despite his young age of 12, but now he truly understood why people said so. There was a depth of understanding in Harry's eyes that belied his years. Still, it was a little embarrassing to be receiving advice from someone so young, but he needed it.
"I'll try," Sirius said finally, his voice a little softer. He looked away, his eyes clouding over as he struggled to come to terms with his emotions.
Just then, they heard Remus's voice from the doorway. "So, now you understand?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his tone. Remus was leaning against the doorframe, a warm smile on his face.
Harry and Sirius were a little surprised, realizing that Remus had been standing there for a while, listening in on their conversation. Remus pushed off from the doorframe and walked into the room, his eyes twinkling with mirth.
"I've been trying to make you understand this for weeks, Sirius," he said, shaking his head, "but I suppose it takes a 12-year-old to drive the point home." Remus's voice was filled with affectionate teasing, but there was also a hint of relief that Sirius was finally starting to understand.
Sirius rolled his eyes good-naturedly, but Harry could see the faintest glimmer of gratitude in his eyes. He knew that Remus had been trying to help him for weeks, and now, thanks to Harry's words, he was finally starting to see things clearly.
Sirius shot back, a hint of defensiveness in his voice. "You're one to talk, Moony," he said, using Remus's nickname. "You've always said I'm too dangerous, giving reasons why you never tried to date a girl." Sirius's tone was light, but there was an undercurrent of seriousness to his words.
Remus's expression turned wistful, and he looked down, his eyes clouding over. "That's different, Padfoot," he said quietly. "I'm a werewolf. I didn't want to put anyone in danger." Remus's voice was laced with a deep sadness, a sense of resignation that had become all too familiar to him.
Sirius snorted. "James, Lily, and I tried to convince you otherwise, but you never listened," he said, shaking his head. Sirius's eyes sparkled with memories of their time at Hogwarts, of the countless times they had tried to persuade Remus to open up, to let someone in.
Remus nodded, a small smile on his face. "Yes, you did. But I was too scared, too worried about hurting someone." Remus's voice cracked, and he paused, collecting himself before continuing. "I didn't want to be a monster, Padfoot. I didn't want to lose control and hurt someone I cared about."
Remus looked up at Sirius, a hint of defensiveness in his eyes. "At least I dated Dorcas," he said quietly.
Harry's curiosity was piqued. "Who's Dorcas?" he asked, looking at Remus. Harry's eyes were wide with interest, and Remus could see the unspoken question in his eyes: what happened to her?
Remus's expression turned somber, and he took a deep breath. "Dorcas was someone I... cared about deeply," he said quietly. "We had a long relationship, but it ended eventually. Shortly before her death, we weren't together anymore." Remus's voice was barely above a whisper, and Harry could sense the depth of his emotions, the pain that still lingered.
Harry's eyes widened in understanding. He thought to himself, "Both of my beloved uncles have had tragic love lives." Harry's heart went out to Remus, to the pain he had endured, and he felt a surge of compassion for his uncle.
Sirius, sensing an opportunity, grinned mischievously. "Now it's your turn, Moony," he said, settling back in his chair. "I'm sure Harry has some advice for you." Sirius's tone was light, but there was a hint of seriousness beneath the surface.
Remus rolled his eyes good-naturedly, but Harry could see a hint of wariness in his eyes. He knew he was in for a lecture, and Sirius was going to enjoy every minute of it.
Harry was all fired up, his curiosity getting the better of him. "Tell me about Dorcas," he asked, his eyes fixed intently on Remus.
Remus raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his voice. "What's gotten into you today, Harry? Uncovering the pasts of Padfoot and me?"
But Harry stood firm, his expression unwavering. Remus sighed, resigned to sharing his story. "Fine," he said, settling back in his chair. "If you must know, it was James and Sirius who persuaded me to start easing up, to start living a little. And eventually, I started dating Dorcas."
Remus's eyes took on a faraway look, a soft smile on his face. "She was a Gryffindor, in the same year as us. A friend of Marlene's and Lily's. We dated for three years, and... she was wonderful. She didn't have a problem when I revealed I was a werewolf. She was understanding, supportive..."
Remus's voice trailed off, his eyes clouding over. "But one day, I broke up with her. The last full moon, I almost bit her. I was horrified. I couldn't risk hurting her, couldn't risk losing control again."
Harry's eyes widened in understanding, his heart going out to Remus. "What happened to her?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Remus's expression turned somber, his voice cracking. "She died, Harry. The Death Eaters killed her, just four months after Marlene's death, and one and a half months before... your parents."
Remus's eyes dropped, his voice barely above a whisper. "She died a few months after our breakup," he said, the pain still evident in his eyes. "I only have one regret, Harry. She came over to my house a month after we broke up, trying to talk to me, but I... I was rude to her. I didn't want to talk, didn't want to face her. And then... and then she was gone, a few months later."
Remus's voice cracked, and he paused, collecting himself. "I just never got to apologize, Harry. Never got to tell her how sorry I was for the way I treated her. That's a regret I'll carry with me for the rest of my life." Remus's eyes were filled with tears, and Harry could see the depth of his sorrow. He reached out, putting a hand on Remus's shoulder, offering what little comfort he could.
After Sirius and Remus left the room to join Ron, Charlie, the twins, and Susan for a game of Quidditch, the room fell silent. Harry sat on his bed, lost in thought, reflecting on the conversations he had just had with his uncles.
Just then, the door creaked open, and Ginny slipped inside. "Hey, Harry," she said softly, closing the door behind her. "What's going on? You've been in here for a while."
Harry looked up at Ginny, his eyes serious. "I had a talk with Sirius and Remus," he said, his voice low. "They told me some things... about their pasts."
Ginny's curiosity was piqued, and she sat down beside Harry on the bed. "What did they say?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with interest.
Harry told Ginny everything, from Sirius's feelings about Marlene to Remus's regret over his treatment of Dorcas. Ginny listened intently, her expression a mix of sadness and understanding. When Harry finished, she let out a soft sigh.
"I hope Amelia and Sirius get together," she said, her voice filled with a quiet optimism. "They seem to really care about each other. And maybe Remus will find someone too," she added, a hint of wistfulness in her tone. Ginny's eyes sparkled with hope as she thought about the possibilities, about the chance for her loved ones to find happiness.
Harry nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of solidarity with Ginny. They sat there in comfortable silence for a moment, lost in their own thoughts, but together in their hopes for the future.
Ginny's expression turned soft and affectionate as she looked at Harry. "I'm very proud to be your girlfriend," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "It was very nice of you to motivate Sirius like that. You're always thinking of others, Harry." She smiled, her eyes shining with admiration.
Harry felt a warmth spread through his chest at Ginny's words. He smiled back at her, feeling grateful for her presence in his life. "Maybe I can do the same for Remus sometime," he said, his eyes sparkling with determination.
Ginny nodded, her expression encouraging. "I'm sure you will, Harry. You have a way of reaching people." She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "You're going to be okay, Harry. You'll recover from your injuries in no time."
Harry snuggled into Ginny's side, feeling a sense of comfort and security wash over him. His injuries from the morning had healed significantly, leaving him with only a few minor bruises and scrapes. Ginny's words of encouragement and her gentle touch made him feel like he was already on the mend.
Then, just as Harry and Ginny were enjoying a quiet moment together, Daisy knocked on the door. She looked anxious, her brow furrowed with concern. Harry's heart went out to her, knowing that she was probably thinking about their conversation before breakfast - the one where they had discussed the possibility that she might be his real sister.
"It's okay, Daisy," Harry said, trying to reassure her. "It doesn't matter if you're not my biological sister. I'll adopt you as one anyway. You'll go to Hogwarts as Daisy Potter, and that's all that matters." Harry's voice was filled with conviction, and Daisy's face lit up with a smile.
"I don't want to be in any other house than yours, Harry," Daisy said, her eyes shining with determination. "And people say Ginny will be in Gryffindor too." Harry chuckled, remembering the countless times he had heard that prediction.
"The houses don't matter, Daisy," Harry said, shaking his head. "I mean, think about it. Ron, Hermione, Neville, and I, we're all Gryffindors, but we've always been friends with people from other houses. And even though Draco's a Slytherin, we've managed to put our differences aside and become friends. This year, when you, Ginny, Dudley, Draco's brother Scorpius, and the others join as first years, we'll make sure you all stay united, no matter what house you're in. And by the time I'm in my seventh year, the whole school will be united, forever."
After Daisy left, Harry and Ginny were surprised by the arrival of two more visitors: Professor McGonagall, affectionately known as "Gran Minnie" by Harry, and Professor Snape. McGonagall, with her characteristic stern yet warm demeanor, smiled as she entered the room.
"Harry, dear, I'm so sorry I couldn't visit yesterday," she said, her eyes twinkling with apology. "I had to attend to a rather important task - delivering a Hogwarts letter to a new Muggleborn student. I did write you a letter, though, to let you know I was thinking of you." She smiled, her expression softening.
Snape, who had been quietly observing the exchange, spoke up in a tone that was surprisingly gentle. "I, too, was occupied with a similar task, Potter. Delivering Hogwarts letters to new students is a responsibility that cannot be taken lightly." Harry noticed a hint of warmth in Snape's eyes, a sign that he genuinely cared for Harry's well-being.
As Snape's eyes met Ginny's, Harry noticed a subtle change in his expression. It was a hint of curiosity, a spark of interest, mixed with a dash of warmth. This was, after all, the first time Snape had met Ginny properly. When Harry was unconscious, they hadn't had much of a chance to interact, and Snape had only caught glimpses of her during his visits to Harry's bedside.
"Ah, Ginny," Snape said, his voice a little softer than usual, with a hint of genuine warmth. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you properly." He nodded at her, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in her features, his gaze lingering on her bright smile and sparkling eyes.
"I've heard a lot about you, of course," Snape continued, his tone conversational, almost friendly. "Harry's told me all about you. Especially when we were working on the Potter-Snape Amnesia Potion last year." He paused, a small, enigmatic smile playing on his lips. "He mentioned that you're his girlfriend."
Snape's eyes locked onto Ginny's, his gaze intense, yet not unkind. "I hope you'll follow in Harry's footsteps, Ginny," he said, his voice filled with a hint of expectation. "He's an exceptional potion maker. I daresay, one of the best I've ever had the pleasure of teaching." Snape's eyes seemed to bore into Ginny's, as if searching for a glimmer of the same passion, the same talent that Harry possessed.
Professor McGonagall watched the exchange between Snape and Ginny with great interest. She couldn't help but think that if this had been a year ago, she would have thought Snape had lost his marbles, praising a Gryffindor student like Harry. But things had changed dramatically since Harry joined Hogwarts.
Harry's determination to prove himself, despite being the son of James Potter, had slowly chipped away at Snape's defenses. Snape had begun to see Harry in a different light, as an individual rather than just the son of his former nemesis. As a result, Snape's attitude had undergone a significant transformation, much to the pleasure of students from other houses and the displeasure of older Slytherin students.
However, the Slytherin students in Harry's year didn't seem to mind Snape's change of heart. Harry, along with his best friends Draco, Hermione, Ron, and Neville, had managed to unite their year mates, breaking down the traditional barriers between the houses. It was a remarkable achievement, one that McGonagall hoped would have a lasting impact on the Hogwarts community.
"I must say, Severus, you're being unusually... diplomatic," McGonagall said, raising an eyebrow as she spoke. Snape's eyes flickered towards her, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
"Merely recognizing talent, Minerva," Snape replied, his voice smooth as silk. "Ginny, I expect great things from you. Do not disappoint me."
As the evening wore on, Grandma Mrs. Tucker insisted that McGonagall and Snape stay for dinner. Pyre, who had arrived for Harry's check-up, also joined the lively gathering. Charlie and Pyre were beaming with happiness, their love radiating like a warm glow.
The dinner table was a vibrant tapestry of colors, laughter, and conversation. Grandma Mrs. Tucker, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Charlie, the twins, Percy, Ron, Harry, Dudley, Daisy, Ginny, Sirius, Amelia, Susan, Remus, Pyre, and McGonagall (or Gran Minnie, as Harry affectionately called her) all gathered around the table.
As they sat down to eat, Snape's eyes scanned the table, his gaze lingering on Dudley and Daisy. "I trust you both are prepared for the academic rigors of Hogwarts?" he asked, his voice firm but not unkind.
Dudley and Daisy exchanged nervous glances, but Snape's words were tempered with a hint of warmth. "You will find that Hogwarts is not just a school, but a community. And I expect you both to uphold the values of hard work, discipline, and loyalty."
Sirius, still wary of his former rival, maintained a cool distance from Snape. The tension between them was palpable, but Remus attempted to bridge the gap with friendly conversation. Though Snape's responses were curt, it was clear that their shared concern for Harry's well-being had created a fragile truce.
As the dinner drew to a close, Grandma Mrs. Tucker smiled warmly at the gathering. "It's so wonderful to see you all together. Harry, dear, you're surrounded by people who love and care for you. That's the greatest magic of all."
As the evening drew to a close, Snape, Pyre, and McGonagall bid their farewells and departed, leaving the rest of the group to retire to their rooms. Harry felt a sense of gratitude wash over him, knowing that everyone had gathered at the manor to support him during his recovery.
The next three days passed in a blur for Harry as his injuries continued to heal. Grandma Mrs. Tucker, pleased with his progress, gave him permission to venture out into the manor's gardens. Ginny was overjoyed to see Harry happy and mobile again, and she spent hours strolling with him through the gardens, enjoying the warm sunshine and fresh air.
These three days were filled with a steady stream of visitors, each one bringing their own brand of cheer and support. Snape, McGonagall, and Pyre all made repeat visits, with Pyre's visits perhaps motivated as much by her affection for Charlie as her concern for Harry's health. Madam Pomfrey, the Hogwarts nurse, also stopped by to check on Harry's progress and offer her expertise.
Harry's other best friends, Draco, Hermione, and Neville, who were not staying at the manor, also made a point to visit him regularly. Their lively conversations and jokes helped to lift Harry's spirits and made his recovery feel more enjoyable.
On the fourth day of his recovery, Harry sat in his room with Ginny snuggled up beside him. The atmosphere was cozy, with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Grandma Mrs. Tucker, Amelia, Sirius, Remus, Snape, and McGonagall gathered around. Amelia, her expression serious, announced that she had spoken with Patricia Moon, the head of the Department of Child Healthcare and Abuse at the Ministry of Magic.
"Patricia may send someone or come herself tomorrow to take your account, Harry," Amelia explained. "This will help finalize the case against the Dursleys and set up their trial." Harry's eyes widened at the mention of the trial, but before he could ask any questions, he turned to Ginny and asked, "Why didn't Dumbledore come to visit me?" Ginny had told him that Dumbledore was there when they found him unconscious and during his treatment, but he hadn't visited since Harry woke up.
The atmosphere in the room grew cold, with Sirius and Snape nodding in agreement. The tension was palpable, and Harry sensed that everyone in the room was upset with Dumbledore. Even Ginny's expression turned cold, and Harry couldn't understand why. "It's not fair," Harry said, feeling a surge of defensiveness. "It's not Dumbledore's fault that my relatives abused me."
Snape's eyes narrowed, his voice low and even. "You don't understand, Potter. Dumbledore's decision to leave you with the Dursleys... it's a complicated matter." McGonagall's expression was somber, and she placed a gentle hand on Harry's shoulder. "We'll explain everything to you, Harry. But for now, let's just focus on your recovery and the trial ahead."
Just as it seemed like the conversation was going to escalate further, Mrs. Weasley intervened, her voice calm and soothing. "That's enough, everyone. Harry's right. We shouldn't be jumping to conclusions without knowing the full story."
McGonagall nodded, her expression thoughtful. "You're right, of course. We'll have to wait and see what Dumbledore has to say for himself."
Harry's face was still flushed with emotion, but he nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Thank you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
As the conversation drew to a close, the group outside the room, who had been trying to listen in, breathed a collective sigh of relief. Ron turned to the others and whispered, "I think Harry's right. We shouldn't be blaming Dumbledore without knowing the facts."
Susan nodded in agreement. "And Harry's right, it's not Dumbledore's fault. It's the Dursleys who are to blame."
The twins, Fred and George, exchanged a mischievous glance. "We'll make sure to keep an ear out for any more gossip," Fred whispered, grinning.
Charlie, who had been quietly observing the exchange, spoke up. "I think we should focus on supporting Harry right now. He's been through a lot."
Daisy, who had grown more confident over the past four days, nodded in agreement. "We're all here for you, Harry. We're not going anywhere."
Just as the group outside the room was about to disperse, Mrs. Weasley's voice rang out, her tone stern. "What's going on here? I can hear you all whispering and eavesdropping!" Her eyes narrowed, her gaze sweeping over the guilty faces.
Daisy's eyes widened, and she took a step back, looking sheepish. Ron, Susan, the twins, Charlie, Dudley and Daisy all exchanged nervous glances.
However, before Mrs. Weasley's scolding could escalate, Harry intervened, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "It's okay, Mrs. Weasley. I would have told them everything anyway."
Mrs. Weasley's expression softened, and she smiled, her eyes twinkling. "Oh, Harry. You're a sly one, aren't you?" She chuckled, shaking her head.
But then, her expression turned stern once more, and she turned to Harry. "However, young man, that doesn't mean you're off the hook. You should have been more careful about sharing your story. You're not just a student, Harry. You're the Boy Who Lived. You have to be mindful of your surroundings and the people around you."
Harry smiled sheepishly, feeling a warmth in his heart. It was the first time Mrs. Weasley had ever scolded him, and he realized that it felt like a scolding from a mother – firm, yet loving.
Next Chapter is The Ultimate Confrontation !
A/n: I hope You like it. Please ignore grammatical and spelling errors. This was it. I had taken quite a liberty at Remus and Sirius past but I guess that's allowed as it's a fanfiction. I hope you liked the chapter. Next chapter would contain Dumbledore and confrontation . Thanks for reading. § Hinny Forever § Please Review!!!