DAPHNE'S POV
I woke up early on Christmas morning, the excitement building in my chest as I thought about the day ahead. Greengrass Manor was always a sight to behold during the holidays, but this year felt special. The sprawling gardens were decorated with enchanted lights that twinkled like stars, and the manor itself was filled with the warm scent of baking and roasting meats.
As I descended to the dining room, I saw my family gathered around the table—my parents, Cygnus and Helena Greengrass, and my younger sister, Astoria. Our household elves, who were always so cheerful and efficient, bustled about, ensuring everything was perfect for our Christmas feast.
The room was filled with laughter and chatter as we exchanged gifts. I had carefully selected presents for everyone—books for my father, a beautiful silver locket for my mother, and a set of magical paints for Astoria.
When it was my turn to open gifts, I was surprised by a beautifully crafted wooden box from Christopher Sterling. Inside, I found a platinum chain with a delicate pendant shaped like an intertwined serpent and rose—a symbol of strength and beauty combined.
"Chris," I said softly, my heart warming at the thought of him. "This is beautiful."
My mother smiled knowingly. "Ah, Christopher Sterling is quite the thoughtful young man, isn't he?" she said.
My father nodded in agreement. "Yes, he seems to have a good sense of taste."
Astoria, always the tease, chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Daphne's got a boyfriend, Daphne's got a boyfriend," she sang softly.
I rolled my eyes good-naturedly but couldn't help smiling. "Stop it, Tori," I said playfully.
As we continued opening gifts and enjoying our Christmas feast, the conversation turned to our plans for the rest of the holidays. My parents mentioned that they would be hosting a grand New Year's Eve party, inviting many of our family's allies and friends.
I listened intently, my mind already racing with thoughts of how I could make sure Christopher was invited. It would be the perfect opportunity for him to meet more of our family's connections and for us to spend more time together.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this Christmas at Greengrass Manor. It was a time of joy, love, and celebration—a reminder of the warmth and support that surrounded me.
And as I looked at the pendant Christopher had given me, I felt a sense of connection to him that went beyond words. It was a symbol of our growing bond, a reminder that even in the midst of family gatherings and celebrations, he was always on my mind.
The morning sun streamed through the tall windows of Sterling Manor, bathing the grand living room in golden light. The room was festively decorated, with garlands of holly and ivy draped across the mantle and a towering Christmas tree standing proudly in the corner. Its branches sparkled with enchanted ornaments, each glowing faintly with magic. Beneath the tree lay an impressive pile of gifts, wrapped in shimmering paper and tied with elegant ribbons.
Christopher Sterling, Harry Potter, Julian Sterling, and Eleanor Sterling gathered around the tree after breakfast, their spirits high as they prepared to exchange gifts. The Sterlings had insisted that Harry join them for their family traditions, making him feel more welcome than he had ever felt during Christmas with the Dursleys.
Christopher was the first to open his gifts. From his parents, Julian and Eleanor, he received a custom-made leather-bound journal enchanted to protect its contents from prying eyes. The journal shimmered faintly as Christopher ran his fingers over its cover, appreciating the intricate silver designs embossed into the leather.
"Thank you," Christopher said warmly, nodding at his parents.
From Harry, Christopher received a rare book titled Advanced Magical Combat: Techniques for Battle Mages. Harry had chosen it carefully after learning about Christopher's dedication to training and dueling. Christopher flipped through its pages with genuine interest.
"This is perfect," Christopher said with a small smile. "Thanks, Harry."
Daphne Greengrass's gift was next—a sleek black scarf embroidered with silver serpents that shimmered faintly under the light. It was elegant yet practical, perfectly suited to Christopher's style. As he unfolded it, a small note fell out: To Chris—Merry Christmas. I hope this keeps you warm during your training sessions.
Christopher smiled softly at the note, his thoughts briefly drifting to Daphne.
Tracey Davis's gift was a set of enchanted quills that never ran out of ink and could adjust their writing style based on the user's intent. "For all your planning and strategies," Tracey had written in her accompanying note.
Christopher chuckled lightly as he examined the quills. "These will come in handy," he said.
Harry was overwhelmed by the generosity of his hosts and friends as he opened his gifts. From Julian and Eleanor Sterling, he received a tailored winter coat in deep green—a color reminiscent of Slytherin—with matching gloves and boots. The coat was enchanted to repel water and keep him warm even in the harshest conditions.
"You'll need this for those cold mornings at Hogwarts," Eleanor said kindly.
From Christopher, Harry received a practical yet thoughtful gift—a set of dueling gloves enchanted to enhance grip and protect against minor magical shocks during combat practice. "You'll need these when we train," Christopher said with a smirk.
Daphne's gift was a hand-carved wooden box containing a crystal figurine of a phoenix. The figurine glowed faintly when touched, symbolizing rebirth and resilience—a subtle nod to Harry's journey so far.
Tracey's gift was a collection of gourmet chocolates from Honeydukes, wrapped in festive packaging. "Everyone needs something sweet during Christmas," her note read cheerfully.
Finally, Harry opened an unexpected gift—a family heirloom wrapped in plain brown paper with no sender listed. Inside was an Invisibility Cloak—the same cloak that had belonged to his father, James Potter. Alongside it was a mysterious note:Use it wisely.
Harry stared at the cloak in awe, his heart pounding as he realized its significance. He looked around but saw no indication of who might have sent it.
"That's quite the gift," Julian remarked curiously.
Harry nodded slowly, still processing what it meant to receive something so precious from his father's legacy.
Julian and Eleanor exchanged gifts as well, their love for each other evident in their thoughtful selections. Julian gifted Eleanor an elegant silver bracelet adorned with tiny emeralds that matched her eyes perfectly. Eleanor smiled warmly as she slipped it onto her wrist.
Eleanor's gift to Julian was a rare magical compass that could guide its user through enchanted terrains—a practical tool for someone who enjoyed exploring magical locations during his travels.
"You always know what I need," Julian said fondly as he examined the compass.
As they sat together by the fire after opening their gifts, Harry couldn't help but marvel at how different this Christmas felt compared to those he had endured with the Dursleys. The Sterlings' warmth and generosity made him feel like part of their family.
"This has been amazing," Harry said quietly. "Thank you for everything."
Julian smiled warmly at him. "You're always welcome here, Harry," he said sincerely.
Eleanor added gently, "Christmas is about family—and you're part of ours now."
Christopher nodded in agreement but didn't say anything; his actions spoke louder than words.
As they continued talking about Hogwarts life, Quidditch matches, and plans for the rest of the holidays, Harry felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude—not just for the gifts but for the kindness and love he had been shown by people who truly cared about him.
While everyone chatted happily around him, Christopher found his thoughts drifting back to Daphne Greengrass. Her gift—the scarf—was more than just a thoughtful gesture; it was a reminder of their growing connection. He wondered what she would think when she opened the platinum chain he had chosen for her at Harrods—a piece that symbolized strength and beauty combined.
For now, though, Christopher focused on enjoying this special day with his family and friends—a day filled with laughter, warmth, and memories that would last a lifetime...
As Christmas drew to a close, the atmosphere at Sterling Manor remained warm and festive. The days spent with Christopher Sterling and his family had been a revelation for Harry Potter—filled with laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging he had never experienced before.
Christopher had taken Harry under his wing, training him regularly in battle magic and introducing him to the concept of grey magic—magic that wasn't inherently good or evil but depended on the intent behind it. Harry proved to be a quick learner, mastering spells with ease and adapting to the nuances of combat.
Under Christopher's guidance, Harry also became proficient with the staff and naginata—a Japanese polearm that combined elements of both spear and sword. Christopher was impressed by Harry's natural talent and dedication to training.
On the last day of Christmas, Christopher led Harry to a secluded part of the manor's training grounds. The air was crisp, and the snow-covered trees stood like sentinels around them.
"I have something for you," Christopher said, a small smile playing on his lips.
He revealed a beautifully crafted naginata with a sleek black handle and a silver blade that shimmered in the sunlight. The naginata was special—enchanted to allow Harry to deflect spells with its blade and release waves of destructive magic when needed.
"This is incredible," Harry said, his eyes wide with excitement.
Christopher nodded. "You've earned it," he said simply. "You've come a long way since we started training."
Harry took the naginata in his hands, feeling its balance and weight. He knew he would carry it with him always, a symbol of his growth and their friendship.
Over the past few weeks, Harry had undergone a transformation that went beyond his magical prowess. The nutritious food and care at Sterling Manor had helped him grow stronger and healthier. His once gaunt face had filled out, revealing sharp cheekbones and a determined jawline.
His style had evolved as well. Harry now wore his hair neatly trimmed, and his eyes sparkled with confidence. He favored simple yet elegant clothing—often in shades of black and gray that complemented his new naginata.
When he walked, his stride was longer and more assured, the naginata strapped securely to his back. It was a testament to his newfound strength and agility.
Christopher watched him with a mixture of pride and admiration. "You've come a long way," he said softly.
Harry smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude toward Christopher. "Thanks to you," he replied.
As they prepared to return to Hogwarts, Harry made a decision. He would continue his training with Christopher, even during the school year. The freedom from malnutrition and the support of his friends had transformed him into a handsome young man with a newfound sense of purpose.
"I want to keep training with you," Harry said firmly. "Even when we're back at Hogwarts."
Christopher nodded, a small smile on his face. "I expected as much," he said. "We'll make it work."
Eleanor Sterling, who had been watching from a distance, smiled warmly at the sight of the two boys. "They both have grown so much," she said softly.
Julian nodded in agreement. "And also formed a bond that will last a lifetime," he added.
As they walked back toward the manor, Harry felt a sense of excitement for the future. He knew that with Christopher by his side, he could face whatever challenges lay ahead—whether in the magical world or beyond.
And as they stepped into the warm glow of the manor's living room, Harry realized that this Christmas had been more than just a celebration—it had been a turning point in his life, a moment when he found not just friends but a new family and a new path to follow.