My Dark Companion

by dieselflame

My take on Harry's years at Hogwarts as Bellatrix' soulmate and the Dark Lord's legacy. As he grows, Harry must navigate a world that sees him as both a weapon and a potential savior, forcing him to choose his own path. Will he follow his father's dark legacy, or forge a new destiny of his own. Now finished through Goblet of Fire.

26. Chapter 26

Chapter 26 – Changes

The grand hall of Slytherin Castle was quiet, its dark stone walls bathed in soft candlelight as they awaited their guest.

Harry stood at the entrance with Bellatrix and Narcissa, his posture relaxed but his mind sharp, ready for whatever this meeting would bring. Bellatrix stood at his side, regal and composed, her hand resting lightly on his arm, while Narcissa exuded cool confidence, her gaze fixed on the heavy doors as they slowly creaked open.

Voldemort entered, alone as promised. His gaze swept across the room, lingering on Harry for a beat before moving to Bellatrix.

"Lady Slytherin," he greeted with a smirk, taking her hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. His eyes gleamed with something unreadable.

Bellatrix inclined her head, her expression indifferent. "Lord Voldemort."

Voldemort turned to Narcissa, his tone softening slightly. "Narcissa. My son is extraordinary. You have done well."

Narcissa's gaze didn't waver as she replied, her voice cool and measured. "Despite your attempt to ensure I didn't even know of his existence." There was steel beneath her words, a carefully contained anger that simmered beneath the surface.

Voldemort tilted his head in acknowledgment, a flicker of amusement in his expression. "He was meant to be my son, not yours. That was the agreement with Lucius."

At the mention of Lucius, Harry's eyes flashed with disgust. His jaw clenched briefly, but he quickly composed himself.

"She is my mother," Harry said firmly, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. "While you are here, you will treat her with nothing but respect — or you can leave."

Voldemort's eyes narrowed, momentarily flashing with surprise. He hadn't expected such a direct challenge, but his expression quickly softened into something resembling amusement.

"Of course," Voldemort said smoothly. "A mother deserves the utmost respect." He inclined his head toward Narcissa. "I am sorry if I did anything to cause offence, Miss Black."

Narcissa gave a slight nod, but her gaze remained cold. "Apology accepted."

Harry glanced at Bellatrix, who gave him a subtle nod.

"You handled that perfectly," she whispered in his mind.

Harry turned back to Voldemort, his tone polite but firm. "Would you like a tour of the castle before lunch?"

"That would be most gracious," Voldemort replied, his eyes scanning the ornate room before landing back on Harry. "Will your wife be joining us?"

Harry tensed at the question, a flicker of discomfort passing through him. The way Voldemort asked it felt too calculated, too familiar.

Bellatrix's voice slid into his mind like silk."He has nothing on you, love. You have me — all of me. Nothing will change that."

Out loud, she answered smoothly, her voice laced with charm and a touch of defiance. "Of course. I wouldn't miss the opportunity to help my husband reunite with his father."

Voldemort chuckled softly. "How fortunate you are, Harry, to have such a devoted wife."

Harry didn't respond. Instead, he gestured for Voldemort to follow. "Let's begin."

The tour was brief but impressive.

Harry showed Voldemort the ancient halls of Slytherin Castle, pointing out key features: the enchanted library filled with rare tomes, the grand staircase leading to the private chambers, and the underground duelling chamber — a particular favourite of Bellatrix's.

Throughout the tour, Voldemort watched Harry with keen interest, occasionally making small comments about the castle's history or architecture, but his focus never wavered from his son. There was something calculating in his gaze, something that made Harry's skin crawl.

Bellatrix stayed close to Harry's side, her presence grounding him. Narcissa joined them in the dining room, waiting at the long, dark wood table when they arrived.

"Shall we?" Harry said, pulling out a chair for Bellatrix before taking his own seat at the head of the table.

Voldemort sat across from him, his snake-like features calm but his eyes gleaming with interest.

The meal was served — a rich spread of roasted meats, fresh vegetables, and warm bread. The conversation remained light, but there was an unspoken tension hanging in the air.

Voldemort sipped his wine and finally broke the silence. "Tell me, Harry. What do you intend to do with the legacy you've inherited?"

Harry met his gaze steadily. "I intend to protect those who need it. To be a champion for those who have none."

Voldemort's lips curved into a faint smile. "A noble sentiment. But power, my son — power is the only thing that ensures true protection."

"Power is a tool," Harry replied calmly. "It depends on how you use it."

Bellatrix placed a hand on Harry's arm, her touch grounding him once more. Narcissa remained silent, watching the exchange with an unreadable expression.

Voldemort leaned back in his chair, studying Harry with open curiosity. "You have the potential to be the greatest wizard of our time. A ruler. The question is — will you take that power?"

Harry held his gaze, unflinching. "I will take the power needed to ensure that no one suffers under tyranny. I will carve my own path."

Voldemort chuckled softly. "A Slytherin through and through." He rose from his seat. "Very well. We will continue this conversation soon. Until then, Harry... consider what it means to be my heir."

Harry stood as well, his tone polite but firm. "I have. And I intend to be more than that."

Voldemort's eyes gleamed. "I look forward to seeing what that means."

With a slight nod to Narcissa and Bellatrix, Voldemort disappeared with a crack, leaving behind an eerie silence.

Bellatrix sighed, leaning into Harry's side. "Well, that was fun."

Narcissa smiled faintly. "You did well. He doesn't know what to make of you yet."

Harry nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. "Good. Let's keep it that way."

The next week, as agreed through letters, Voldemort returned to Slytherin Castle.

Harry waited for him in the study, seated behind the grand desk once used by Salazar Slytherin himself. The room was dimly lit, the green and silver décor casting long shadows across the walls. A fire crackled in the hearth, but the warmth did little to ease the tension in the air.

With a softcrack, Voldemort appeared at the door, his robes sweeping across the stone floor as he entered. Harry rose to his feet, his expression carefully neutral.

"Welcome back," Harry greeted.

Voldemort inclined his head. "It is good to see you again, my son."

Harry gestured to the chair opposite him. "Shall we sit?"

Voldemort took the offered seat, his gaze never leaving Harry. "I must say, this castle suits you. It feels… appropriate."

Harry leaned back in his chair, watching Voldemort carefully. "It's my home now. The legacy I intend to uphold."

"Legacy," Voldemort repeated, a faint smile playing at his lips. "It's an interesting word, isn't it? It implies both the past and the future.

They spoke for hours, their conversation weaving through topics of politics, history, and magic. Voldemort was, as always, calculating and manipulative, but Harry remained steady, revealing little while learning much.

As the conversation began to wind down, Harry leaned forward slightly. "You've been traveling a lot. Where have you been staying?"

Voldemort's eyes flickered with something unreadable. "Riddle Manor. It's not in the best condition, but it is… liveable."

Harry felt Bellatrix's presence in his mind."He's clearly testing you, love. He wants to see how far you'll go to keep him close."

Harry considered her words, then made his decision."We need to keep him close. Learn his plans before he has the chance to act. This will give us that opportunity."

Out loud, he said, "You shouldn't have to live in such conditions. Slytherin Castle is vast, and there is more than enough room for you here."

Voldemort raised a brow, clearly surprised. "You would offer me a place in your home?"

Harry met his gaze steadily. "It will give us more time to get reacquainted. To understand one another better."

For a moment, Voldemort said nothing. Then, slowly, he nodded, a calculating glint in his eyes. "A most generous offer. I accept."

Harry rose to his feet, signalling that the conversation was over. "We'll have a room prepared for you. I'll see you at dinner."

As Voldemort left the study, Harry felt Bellatrix's voice once again in his mind. "You've invited the snake into the den."

"I know,"Harry replied. "But better the devil you know."

Bellatrix's laughter echoed softly in his thoughts."And you, my love, are the most dangerous snake of all."

O – o – o – o

After that, the summer months at Slytherin Castle felt anything but peaceful. The air seemed to constantly buzz with tension, plans, and whispered conversations. Harry found himself walking a fine line — balancing the roles of husband, heir, and potential leader. The castle, steeped in history and magic, was becoming the epicentre of change.

After Voldemort accepted Harry's invitation, he took up residence in one of the grand suites in the east wing. Bellatrix had insisted on wards and protections around the castle to monitor his movements, though she made it clear to Harry that she would prefer the Dark Lord be thrown out entirely.

"Trusting him is foolish," she warned one evening as they shared a quiet moment in their chambers. "You're playing a dangerous game, my love."

"I'm not trusting him," Harry replied. "I'm learning from him. The more I know, the better prepared I'll be."

Despite Bellatrix's protests, the castle remained open to Voldemort, and his presence brought a strange energy to their home. Harry found himself constantly observing the man — his mannerisms, his conversations, the way he tried to manipulate those around him.

Harry dedicated much of his time to training. With Bellatrix as his sparring partner, he honed his skills in duelling and continued to perfect his Occlumency and Legilemency with Narcissa, though he was nearly exceeding her own expertise in the area. They pushed each other to their limits, determined to stay ahead of whatever Voldemort had planned. Beyond physical training, Harry spent hours pouring over magical texts from the castle's extensive library. He was particularly interested in ancient wards and spells of protection, determined to ensure that Slytherin Castle would remain secure.

Voldemort, for his part, seemed content to play the role of curious observer. He often sought Harry out for conversations, testing the boy's thoughts on various topics.

One afternoon, as they sat in the castle's sunlit study, Voldemort posed a question.
"What do you believe makes a great leader?"

Harry didn't hesitate. "Someone who leads by example. Someone who understands that power is a responsibility, not a right."

Voldemort chuckled, a cold sound that sent shivers down Harry's spine. "An idealistic view. But tell me — do you believe you can create a world where power does not corrupt?"

Harry met his gaze. "I believe that power doesn't have to corrupt. It's the choices we make that define us."

Voldemort gave him a long, appraising look before nodding. "You remind me of Bellatrix when she was your age."

Each day letters poured into Slytherin Castle from witches and wizards across the wizarding world. Some offered support, while others were wary of Harry's connections to Voldemort. Harry answered each one with thoughtful consideration. Harry also began to make efforts to strengthen relationships with key figures in the wizarding world. Narcissa, who had taken on the role of castle matron, proved invaluable in maintaining the household and organising their many guests during the day. Amelia visited often, though she carefully avoided Voldemort. Seeing her with his mother always made his heart feel lighter and his own relationship with her was growing stronger with each passing day.

Sirius also became a frequent visitor, his boisterous presence a welcome contrast to the tension that lingered around Voldemort. Sirius had been angry at first when Harry had told him that Voldemort was living there, but when Harry explained his plans Sirius eventually gave his begrudging support. He could see the benefit in keeping a close eye on him.

"You're handling this better than I would have," Sirius admitted one evening as they sat by the fire. "I'm not sure I could share a roof with… him."

"I don't intend to share it forever," Harry said. "I'm just biding my time."

A few weeks after Voldemort took residence, the castle started to become a hub of activity in the evenings as well, as soon as the sun had set Death Eaters would begin to arrive to meet with the Dark Lord. Their presence cast a shadow over the ancient halls, but Harry made it clear to Voldemort that they were guests, not rulers.

"They respect you," Voldemort remarked one evening after a meeting with several of his followers. "They bow to you as they do to me."

"They respect power," Harry replied. "And I've given them no reason to doubt mine."

The Death Eaters treated Harry with reverence and careful deference. Harry found himself observing them closely, learning their faces, their loyalties, their ambitions.

Some, like Yaxley and the Carrows, were openly respectful, bowing deeply to Harry as they passed. Others, like Avery and Rookwood, offered cautious nods, wary of the young heir to Voldemort's legacy.

Then there were those like Lucius, whose disdain was barely concealed.

Whenever Lucius was summoned to the castle, he kept his gaze lowered, refusing to meet Harry's eyes. His jaw was always clenched, his hands trembling slightly as he addressed Voldemort but pointedly ignored Harry's presence.

Harry noticed, of course. So did Bellatrix, who took great delight in glaring daggers at her ex brother-in-law.

"He fears you," she whispered to Harry as they watched Lucius disappear down the corridor one evening. "And he should."

One day, after a tense meeting, Harry caught Lucius lingering by the door.

"Is there something you wish to say, Malfoy?"

Lucius stiffened but did not turn to face him. "No, my Lord."

"Then look at me when you speak."

Slowly, Lucius turned, his eyes filled with contempt and fear. "I do not believe in what you are doing."

Harry's eyes narrowed. "And yet you still follow him. Why?"

Lucius faltered, his lips pressing into a thin line before he turned and left without another word.

Bellatrix appeared at Harry's side, her wand drawn. "I could end him right now."

"No," Harry said calmly. "Let him stew in his fear. It's a more powerful weapon than a curse."

Every few days, more Death Eaters would arrive. Meetings were held in the castle's study, where Voldemort sat at the head of the long table, Harry at his right hand. Bellatrix often stood behind Harry's chair, a silent guardian.

The meetings varied in tone — some were tense, with discussions of potential attacks and recruitment. Others were more casual, with Voldemort sharing his plans for the wizarding world's future.

But through it all, Harry remained watchful.

"They're testing me," he told Bellatrix one evening after a meeting had ended.

"They're terrified of you," she corrected. "They've never seen someone stand beside the Dark Lord as his equal."

Harry smirked. "That's what I want them to see. Equality. Not servitude."

One day, Narcissa found Harry in the study, pacing by the window.

"Something's troubling you," she said softly.

"It's Lucius," Harry admitted. "He's a liability."

Narcissa's expression tightened. "He's a coward. He always has been."

Harry nodded. "I need to know where he stands. He can't keep avoiding me forever."

Narcissa placed a hand on his shoulder. "Whatever you decide, I will support you. But remember, he's still Draco's father."

Harry sighed. "I know. That's the only reason I haven't dealt with him already.

As July came to end, Harry sent the new headmaster a letter asking to speak with her. A few days later, Harry sat across from Headmistress McGonagall, his expression serious but hopeful. Behind him, Bellatrix stood silently, her arms crossed, and beside her, Narcissa perched elegantly on a chair, her gaze calm but watchful.

McGonagall folded her hands on her desk, looking at Harry with curiosity. "You've asked for this meeting, Lord Slytherin. I assume it's important."

Harry nodded. "Very."

McGonagall's eyes flicked briefly to Bellatrix, then back to Harry. "Go on, then."

Harry leaned forward, his green eyes bright with determination. "I want to propose changes to Hogwarts' curriculum — changes that reflect the world as it is now, not as it was."

McGonagall raised an eyebrow. "And what, exactly, do you have in mind?"

"We need a wizarding heritage class," Harry began. "A class that teaches students about magical families, traditions, and legacies — the good and the bad. Students need to understand our history, our culture, and the biases that have shaped it."

McGonagall nodded slowly. "And what would this class cover?"

Harry glanced at Bellatrix, who gave a subtle nod of encouragement.

"It would cover the Founders and the rise of blood purity ideology. It would talk about ancient magic, old families, and forgotten traditions, but it would also address the darker aspects of our history — the wars, the prejudices, the mistakes."

McGonagall's gaze sharpened. "And you believe this is necessary?"

"I do," Harry said firmly. "Understanding where we come from is the only way to move forward. The wizarding world is divided. We need to bridge that gap, and education is the first step."

McGonagall's expression softened. "You sound very much like Albus."

Harry smiled faintly. "He had a point. Knowledge is power."

"There's another class that needs updating," Harry continued. "Muggle Studies."

McGonagall frowned. "What's wrong with Muggle Studies?"

"It's outdated," Harry said bluntly. "It's taught from a wizard-centric perspective that's condescending at best and ignorant at worst. Students need to understand muggles as equals, not curiosities."

McGonagall sat back in her chair, considering his words.

"And I know exactly who should teach it," Harry added.

"Oh?"

"Andromeda Tonks."

McGonagall's eyes widened slightly. "Andromeda? I hadn't considered her."

"She's perfect," Narcissa interjected. "She was disowned for marrying a muggle-born, yet she's still deeply connected to the wizarding world. She's seen both sides."

Harry nodded. "She can provide a balanced, nuanced view — one that will actually prepare students to interact with muggles respectfully."

McGonagall tapped her fingers on her desk, deep in thought. "It's a bold suggestion. But I agree the curriculum needs change."

Later that day, Harry, Bellatrix, and Narcissa stood at the entrance to Andromeda's modest home. When the door opened, Andromeda stared at them, surprise flickering across her face.

"Narcissa. Bellatrix. And… Harry. I haven't see you since Christmas. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Harry smiled warmly. "Hello, Mrs. Tonks. May we come in?"

She stepped aside, her expression wary but curious. Once they were seated, Harry explained the purpose of their visit.

"I'm - I'm honoured," Andromeda said softly when he finished. "But are you sure the school will accept me?"

"They will," Harry assured her. "McGonagall has agreed. And honestly, we need you."

Andromeda's gaze softened as she looked at her sisters. Bellatrix offered a small smile, while Narcissa nodded in quiet encouragement.

Finally, Andromeda stood and extended her hand to Harry. "Then I accept."

A week later, McGonagall announced the changes to the staff.

"We will be introducing a wizarding heritage class next year, and I'm pleased to welcome Andromeda Tonks as our new Muggle Studies professor."

The room erupted in quiet murmurs, but McGonagall's stern expression silenced any objections.

A week later, Slytherin Castle was alive with warmth and laughter as Harry's fifteenth birthday celebration began. The grand dining hall, normally reserved for formal meetings and quiet meals, was transformed into a lively, festive space. Twinkling green and silver lights floated around the room, casting soft glows across the ancient stone walls. House-elves scurried about with trays of food and drinks, their wide eyes gleaming with excitement.

Bellatrix stood near the centre of the hall, overseeing the decorations with a rare, genuine smile. Narcissa approached her, holding a beautifully wrapped package.

"Is everything ready?" Narcissa asked.

Bellatrix nodded. "Perfect. He deserves this."

As if on cue, Harry entered the room, followed closely by Andromeda, Severus, Sirius, and Amelia. His emerald-green robes shimmered slightly in the enchanted light, and his hair was as untameable as ever. He stopped in his tracks, eyes widening at the sight before him.

"What is all this?" he asked, a grin spreading across his face.

"Your birthday, my little Lord," Bellatrix said, stepping toward him and pulling him into a tight embrace. "Did you think we wouldn't celebrate?"

Harry chuckled. "I'm still not used to this kind of attention."

"I am determined that one day you will be used to it," Narcissa said with a teasing smile. "Because we intend to spoil you every year."

Sirius clapped Harry on the back. "It's about time we've had a proper celebration. You've earned it."

As the evening progressed, Harry was showered with thoughtful gifts. Narcissa handed him a sleek, dragon-hide journal with an enchanted quill that would never run out of ink.

"For your thoughts," she said softly. "You'll need them as you navigate this new path."

Sirius gave him a set of enchanted prank items from Zonko's, earning a playful glare from Narcissa. "What? He needs some fun!"

Andromeda presented him with a collection of rare books on ancient magic. "Knowledge is power," she said with a wink.

Amelia handed Harry a small, polished badge with a serpent entwined around a wand. "It's a family crest," she explained. "Wear it with pride."

Finally, Bellatrix stepped forward with a long, wrapped box. Harry carefully opened it to reveal an intricately carved wand holster, enchanted with protection and concealment charms.

"It's beautiful," he said, running his fingers over the leather. "Thank you."

Bellatrix smiled, her dark eyes warm. "For my Lord. To keep you safe."

Before they parted for the night, Narcissa raised a glass to Harry.

"To my son," she said, her voice steady with pride. "May you always find strength in your values, courage in your choices, and love in your family."

"To Harry," everyone echoed, raising their glasses in unison.

Harry smiled, feeling the warmth of their words settle deep in his chest.

Later that night, after the feast had ended and the guests had left, Harry stood on the balcony overlooking the grounds. The summer air was warm, and the stars glittered above.

Bellatrix joined him, slipping her arm through his. "A Knut for your thoughts."

"I was just thinking how different everything is," Harry said quietly. "A few years ago, I was a boy with no family. Now… I have all of you."

Bellatrix smiled. "You've always had a family, Harry. You just hadn't found us yet."

Harry nodded, his gaze drifting to the horizon. "I know the path ahead won't be easy. But I'm ready."

Bellatrix squeezed his arm. "We'll walk it together."

As the stars continued to shine above, Harry felt a deep sense of peace. For the first time in his life, he knew exactly who he was — and who he wanted to be.

Bellatrix moved in front of him, putting her hands on his sides. Harry softly slid his fingers to the back of her neck and pulled her into a kiss. Her lips parted and he circled them with his tongue before finding hers, tingles running through him as he did. He wrapped her tightly to him and she slid her hands to the small of his back. Harry could feel his passion building and broke away from the kiss. He took her hands and led her to stand by the large bed. He slowly unbuttoned her dress, his fingers brushing against her skin as he made his way to the last button at her waist.

* BEGINNING OF LEMON *

Harry trailed his fingertips back up to her collar bone then down to her breasts and cupped them through her bra. He kissed her neck, finding that little spot just under her ear that made her moan. He turned her until her back was to him and slid the dress from her shoulders, letting it drop to the floor. He took off his shirt and pulled her against him, his heated skin against her bare spine sending a flush through her body. He unhooked her bra and slipped it off, then found her breasts again and teased her nipples as he licked his way over her neck.

Bella's hips rocked back against his hardened sex and he caressed her skin down to her panties. Harry ran his fingers over the lace and she arched her back, reaching behind her to unbutton his pants. She let them fall to the floor to be followed by his boxers. Harry stepped out of his clothing, his hand on her core pulling her back into him. He removed her panties and gasped when his erection brushed against her nude buttocks.

"You feel so good," Harry whispered in her ear.

Bellatrix put her hand over his and guided his finger inside her. She showed him the rhythm she wanted and sucked in her breath. She spread her feet farther apart and he slid deeper into her, the feel of her wet core in his hand making him grip her tighter. He scraped his teeth over her neck and felt her walls tighten as she shivered. He bent his knees until his erection was sliding along her buttocks and the base of her spine. "Oh, Bella," he groaned. She was rubbing her body up and down his, her bare back against his hot chest and her hands massaging his thighs.

"Please, my Lord, I want you inside me." Her husky voice begging him licked flames through his body. He slid his finger from her and softly played over her clit, her legs trembling against his. He eased his grip around her and Bellatrix crawled onto the bed and pulled the covers down to the end. She lay on her back and he knelt over her and darted his tongue into her mouth, her hand gripping the back of his head.

Harry stretched his body alongside her and rolled her onto her side facing away from him. He reached between her legs and lifted her leg over his, opening her up to him. With his other hand he pushed her neck forward until she was curled slightly. He guided himself to her wet core and entered slowly to give her time to relax and stretch to the angle. He held onto her hip and thrust further into her and heard her gasp. She arched her back, pushing herself onto him as he sank deep into her. He held himself in her and tightened his buttocks, beginning a slow rocking motion as his fingers slid from her hip to trail up her thigh, his other hand braced against the base of her neck.

The sight of her curved, toned back, the slope of her side down to her waist then up the muscles of her bent leg swelled him even more. He pulled out slowly until just the tip was inside her, then he gripped the back of her thigh, thrust forward as deep as he could, and paused again.

"Oh, Harry," she gasped. He repeated the motions, feeling her clench and tighten as her back arched then curled forward again with each thrust. Her hand was sliding over the sheet, then over her breasts as she squeezed her nipples between her fingers. His pace quickened and his fingertips followed the curve of her thigh until he reached where they were joined and found her swollen clit. Her head tilted back and she gasped as he rubbed her and felt her grow wetter around him.

Harry had learned her body and knew she was close to climax. It took all of his willpower to hold his own back as he pushed himself to the hilt in her heat and stilled his hips while he danced his fingers over her clit.

The tightening, the tiny moan that escaped her throat, the hardening of her stomach, and he steeled himself to ride out her orgasm as she turned her head into the sheet to muffle her cry. Harry clenched around him and her leg that was bent over his slid across him and onto the bed as she curled around the explosion through her centre.

Harry kept his fingers playing over her until he felt her muscles release, then he grabbed her hip and started driving into her. She shifted further back into him and rocked her hips each time they met his. He gripped the back of her thigh again and pulled her onto him as he plunged deeper. She contracted around his thickening sex each time he buried to the hilt, milking him closer and closer to the edge. His rhythm started to slip, soon followed by the white flash through his body that drove him into her. He sucked in his breath to stop his shout as his nerves seared, the heat in his centre ignited, and he came. His body jerked against hers and she balled her fists in the sheet as he pumped into her. At last, his spasms slowed to a stop and his heart started to beat again.

He slipped out of her and pulled her body fully to his, his legs curving along hers, the soft skin of her back sending tingles down his chest and stomach. He wrapped his arm over her and found her hand, lacing his fingers through hers as he kissed the back of her neck.

** END OF LEMON **

O – o – o - o

The last week of summer brought a peaceful hush over Black Manor. The sun dipped low in the sky, casting golden light across the grand estate. Narcissa stood in the dining room, carefully arranging the table with flickering candles and freshly cut roses. She smoothed down her elegant silver robes and took a steadying breath.

This dinner was important — more than any formal event she'd hosted in years.

The soft crack of apparition from the entrance hall made her heart race. She turned to see Amelia walking in, dressed in dark robes that accentuated her commanding presence. Her auburn hair was pinned back, a few loose strands framing her face.

"Amelia," Narcissa greeted warmly, her voice softening. "You're right on time."

"I wouldn't miss it," Amelia replied, stepping closer and taking Narcissa's hand. "You look stunning."

Narcissa flushed lightly. "So do you. Come — dinner is ready."

The two women sat across from each other, enjoying the exquisite meal Narcissa had prepared. The conversation flowed easily, covering everything from Hogwarts' new curriculum to the ongoing political tensions in the wizarding world.

But as the evening wore on, the atmosphere shifted. Narcissa's gaze lingered on Amelia's more often, and her words became softer, more intimate.

"There's something I've been meaning to ask you," Narcissa finally said, setting down her glass of wine.

Amelia tilted her head, curious. "Go on."

Narcissa hesitated for a moment before speaking. "These past few years… you've become such an important part of my life. I never thought I would find someone who made me feel this way."

Amelia reached out, taking Narcissa's hand in hers. "I feel the same."

Narcissa smiled, her heart swelling with emotion. "Then move in with me. Here, at Black Manor. Let's build a life together."

Amelia's eyes widened briefly, but then a slow, radiant smile spread across her face. "I was hoping you'd ask."

Narcissa let out a breath of relief, her fingers tightening around Amelia's. "So… that's a yes?"

Amelia laughed softly. "That's a very enthusiastic yes."

The words had barely left Amelia's mouth before Narcissa rose from her chair and pulled her into a kiss. It was slow at first — gentle, exploratory. But as the kiss deepened, both women gave in to the emotions they had been holding back for months.

"I've wanted this for so long," Amelia whispered against Narcissa's lips.

"Then let's not waste any more time," Narcissa replied, her voice husky.

Hand in hand, they made their way upstairs to Narcissa's bedroom. The heavy oak door closed behind them, sealing them in a world of their own.

In the dim light of the room, Narcissa traced her fingers along Amelia's jawline, marvelling at the softness beneath her touch. They kissed again, more urgently this time, as if making up for all the moments they had missed.

Clothes were shed, barriers broken down, until they were lying together beneath the silk sheets, their bodies entwined. Narcissa's heart pounded in her chest as she gazed into Amelia's eyes, seeing nothing but love and desire reflected back at her.

"I love you," Narcissa murmured, the words slipping out naturally.

Amelia's breath hitched, and she smiled. "And I love you."

The night stretched on, filled with whispered promises and tender touches. It was a night of passion, but also one of comfort — a quiet reassurance that they had both found exactly where they were meant to be.

As dawn broke over Black Manor, the light streaming through the windows cast a golden glow over the room. Narcissa stirred, feeling Amelia's arms wrapped around her.

She turned to see Amelia watching her, a soft smile on her lips. "Good morning."

"Good morning," Narcissa replied, leaning in to steal a kiss.

"So… when should I bring my things?" Amelia teased.

Narcissa laughed, her heart full. "Whenever you're ready. This is your home now."

Amelia tightened her hold on her. "Then I suppose I'm already home."

And with that, they drifted back into a peaceful silence, content in the knowledge that they would face the future together.

The next morning, the sun streamed through the large windows of the Black Manor dining room. Harry sat at the long oak table with Susan, both quietly waiting for Narcissa, having been invited to have breakfast with her the day before. Harry found the calm atmosphere a rare luxury in their busy lives.

Just as Harry was about to pour himself another cup of tea, Narcissa and Amelia entered the room, hand in hand. Their radiant smiles immediately caught his attention.

"Mum, Amelia." Harry greeted with a grin. "Good morning."

"Good morning, dears," Narcissa said, her tone unusually bright.

Amelia cleared her throat, a rare hint of nervousness in her usually composed demeanor. "We wanted to talk to you both about something."

Harry raised an eyebrow, setting his teacup down. "What's going on?"

Narcissa and Amelia exchanged a glance before Narcissa spoke. "Amelia and I have decided to… take the next step in our relationship."

Susan's eyes widened in surprise. "You're getting married?"

Amelia chuckled softly. "Not yet, but we are moving in together."

Harry blinked, then grinned. "Moving in together? That's fantastic!" He stood, walking over to embrace Narcissa. "I'm happy for you."

Narcissa returned the hug, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "Thank you, darling. It feels right."

Susan stood as well, giving Amelia a warm hug. "It's about time. You've both been dancing around it for years."

Amelia laughed. "You're not wrong."

Harry leaned against the table, arms crossed, a playful smirk on his face. "So where will you be living? At Bones Manor?"

Narcissa shook her head. "No, we'll be at Black Manor. It's been my home for so long, and now… it will be ours."

Harry's smile softened. "That sounds perfect."

Susan looked at Harry thoughtfully. "It's nice to see people building a future together, despite everything going on."

Harry nodded in agreement. "It gives us hope. Stability."

Amelia met Harry's gaze. "We'll always be here to support you, Harry. No matter what happens."

"Thank you, Amelia." Harry's voice was sincere, his expression grateful. "I'm lucky to have both of you in my life."

Susan grinned. "I think this calls for a celebration."

Amelia raised an eyebrow. "A celebration?"

Harry chuckled. "A small one. Dinner tonight at the castle?"

Narcissa smiled warmly. "That sounds perfect."

Amelia nodded in agreement, her hand slipping into Narcissa's. "Then it's a date."

After breakfast, Narcissa and Amelia excused themselves to get Amelia and Susan completely moved in, leaving Harry and Susan alone.

"They deserve happiness," Susan said softly.

Harry nodded. "They do. Are you okay with moving into Black Manor?"

"We stay here a couple nights a week during the summer anyways. I already have a room. I don't imagine much will change really."

"Well, if you ever need to get away, you are always welcome at the castle. We are practically siblings now after all," Harry said with a smile.

"Thanks Harry, that means a lot. I'm sure I'll take you up on that someday. Their arguments can be quite - intense sometimes." Harry chuckled.

"I don't doubt that. I'm married to Narcissa's sister remember?"

O – o – o – o

On the last day of summer, Harry stood on the castle's balcony, gazing out over the rolling hills. Bellatrix joined him, slipping her hand into his.

"You've done well," she said softly. "The castle feels… alive again."

Harry nodded. "There's still so much to do. So many decisions to make."

"You'll make the right ones. I believe in you."

As the sun set, casting the sky in shades of gold and crimson, Harry felt a renewed sense of purpose. The summer had been a time of growth, of preparation.

Now, the real battle was about to begin.