Cavorting with Death

by Rokakku

Suffering from the aftermath of his Godfather's demise, a resolute Harry Potter has reached his breaking point. Recognising the wizard he was destined to be; Harry will stop at nothing to ensure he reaches his happily ever after. Relationships will be tested, lies will be unravelled, blood will be spilt. At the end, will everything he had done, all be for nought? AU. End of 5th Yr

8. Chapter 8

Longest chapter yet! Just over 17k words wheeew. I probably won't be writing a chapter this long anytime soon again aha.

Some people will have mixed opinions after reading this chapter so it'll be interesting to read what ya think so let me know!

Enjoy...

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Chapter 8

CwD

July 20th, 1996

"In all my years working as an Auror, I don't think I've seen this many people attend a Ministry-held function before."

"Fudge's last bid trying to win the most important votes of his life. Gotta make it special somehow." A voice snorted.

"No wonder!" The other person chuckled. "Anti-Fudge are you, Larry?"

"Since he was elected. Personally, never liked the ponce."

"Bit of a peculiar chap, ain't he?"

"Understatement of the century, Dom. Understatement of the century."

The air was buzzing with the pleasant murmur of conversation and the tinkling of champagne glasses. Guests mingled and exchanged pleasantries as little Elves decked out in small little suits, baring the Ministry of Magic emblem, glided through the crowd, offering trays of hors d'oeuvres and flutes of sparkling champagne to eager hands.

"Merlin's balls! Look at the arse on that!" 'Dom' whistled lowly.

"Who? Ah. Fantastic isn't it. The way it jiggles from left to right. That's Lady Emmaline Vance. Helluva bird, she is. Voice of an angel but I've heard no man can handle her. Word on the grapevine is that she's a bit… loony… behind closed doors."

"In this day 'n age, who bloody cares! One night! That's all I'd need. She'd go loony for me after." He replied with a salacious grin as his partner laughed.

"Enjoying yourself laddies?" A gruff voice interrupted behind the pair causing them to stiffen.

"Mad-eye." Larry gulped.

"Focus ya bloody morons! Constant vigilance! It's times like this when the enemy strikes! When idiot Aurors like you drop their guard!"

"Yes sir, won't happen again, sir!"

"See that it doesn't otherwise you can join the seniors for training tomorrow. Proudfoot mentioned something about needing two volunteers for our bludgeoning session…" Moody ended with a gnarly grin before the intimidating man limped away.

"Bloody mental…" Dom muttered as he stood up straight and began scanning the crowd lest he angers the scary man again.

Larry lightly cleared his throat before copying his colleague.

"It's gonna be one long night, Dom…"

CwD

Dresses full of sparkling gems and shoes so shiny, one could see their reflection in, shimmered like a sea of diamonds as the elite of society gathered for the annual Ministry Gala, a function renowned for its extravagance and sophistication.

The venue location was in the Atrium of the Ministry of Magic, decorated and transformed making it a ballroom fit for royalty.

Guests were still arriving in a flurry of elegance as a red carpet greeted them from the fireplaces. Once they cleared a small security booth, they were lead into the main ballroom where they were announced by a man with some of the most garish orange glasses Daphne had ever seen.

Finally, their time had come.

She breathed in deeply; attempting to calm her fitful nerves. The dolled up blonde ignored the way her date gave her a look of concern as she stared straight ahead, exercising her Occlumency.

Matthias, her father, looked as usual, the true vision of what a prestigious Lord ought to look like. Hair slicked back, robes immaculate. Even the fake, genial smile he wore looked pleasantly sincere. The man looked every bit of a Lord his enemies wish they could emulate.

On his arm, was her mother, Ellanore, who likewise her husband, looked every bit of a lady of a prominent house. Her enchanting looks, that Daphne inherited, were enhanced by her choice of dress as the older woman looked picture perfect. If one were to look closely however, it was clear the past few years were not kind to her.

The stress and anxiety due to complications with her youngest, Fiona, who was too poorly to attend, had taken a toll on her mentally and physically. The youthful looks that she was once so famous for had become mute and dampened.

Speaking to her parents was Astoria's future in-laws.

Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy stood next to one another with an indiscernible gap between them.

It was so hard to see that originally, Daphne thought she was imagining it, but there was definitely some sort of tension between the two and her theory was all but confirmed when she saw the way Narcissa reluctantly placed her hand on her husband's arm.

Lucius looked his same unctuous self, thanks to some well-placed concealing charms. Daphne in her not so humble opinion, was a bit of a beauty expert and so it was easy for her to see that the man was definitely hiding his true appearance and she could only wonder why.

Finally, a third couple finished the adults in their group.

The Warrington's.

Malakai looked as unchanged as always. Even for such a public event as the Gala today, not a single hair was out of place. The man looked exactly identical to all the times she had seen him at the Manor except for the woman that was on his arm who fit the dull but intimidating countenance of Malakai Warrington like a perfect jigsaw puzzle.

Cassandra Warrington was a close friend of her mother's back when the two were at Hogwarts together. It was how the two families became close.

Whereas Malakai had harsh, sharp features, Cassandra was soft and expressive. Like two opposite sides of a coin. It oddly made them suit one another.

"-Feathers Astoria, Feathers! But what does that oaf Crabbe put instead? Chicken's blood! Honestly, if it wasn't for my timely reaction speed, my new cauldron would've exploded! Not to mention what could have happened to my shoes…"

Daphne's lip slowly began to curl into a sneer as she observed Draco Malfoy talk his gob off about some random, impertinent topic with Astoria watching him as if she was spellbound.

Whether it be for fortune, fame, titles or gold… the beautiful blonde was confident that there was something seriously wrong with her younger sister if she chose to court Draco Malfoy of all people.

Draco had never explicitly involved himself with Daphne most likely due to his father's orders. With the way his eyes gained a cruel gleam whenever he casted his gaze at her, all but confirmed he was told of her past most likely from the same girl who stood next to him and yet, he had never said a single word regarding it.

It was clear to her that the courtship between Draco and Astoria was extremely lucrative and the last thing dear Draco wants to do is upset his dear daddy by pestering her.

Not that Daphne's parents would do anything about it anyway.

Though they were in the same year, Daphne and he had remained civil enough but that didn't mean the boy wasn't an insufferable little git.

She had once sincerely believed Draco had a thing for Potter with the amount of drivel he would spout about him and she knew she wasn't the only one.

Nevertheless, none would speak out. His name protected him ever since he arrived at Hogwarts and now, to her ever growing horror, the ferret would become utterly unbearable once he takes on the title of Lord Black.

Draco, in the future, would definitely become the most powerful man in Magical Britain with everything he was to inherit.

The Malfoy title, coupled with the Greengrass title from the union of him and Astoria as well as the title of one of the Coloured Families would make the future Lord Malfoy unstoppable.

Well… It would make the Dark Lord unstoppable. Daphne thought with a shiver.

"It's time."

Daphne blinked before looking up at the person who stood next to her.

Cassius Warrington was someone who she had known since childhood. He was an only child and because her family and the Warrington's were close, she had seen a lot of him growing up.

Jerking his head dramatically, he flicked the silver strands of his long, curly hair that had got in front of the same brown eyes he had inherited from his father. As well as his height and build. Apart from that, that was where the similarities between the two ended as Cassius was mostly his mother in appearance.

The older boy was smart, charismatic and handsome.

Three qualities that had most girls swooning since an early age and because of this, he had developed quite a bit of an ego. Even for a Slytherin, he was well liked by everyone because of how open and outgoing he was, which was amplified when the betrothal between Daphne and him was made public in her Fourth Year.

While the whole school knew how spoilt the young Malfoy was thanks to his father, Cassius' pride became almost as bad as Draco's but the difference between the two was that Cassius had managed to retain his charismatic self somehow and not have ego issues like Draco.

Cassius was somewhat of a prodigy in duelling and his accolades were well broadcasted in the papers everywhere which earned him a bit of a reputation and although that was a big thing to him, that was not the true source of his self-importance.

Looking to her left, she met her reflection that the black, shiny bricks of the Ministry's walls provided her.

Daphne was not vain. She knew she was attractive.

She was known to be distant and unapproachable and since, Cassius had somehow, thawed her out as if she was some princess stuck in an ice sculpture, he had, according to the Hogwarts rumour mill… won.

"Yes. I suppose it is." Daphne replied with a blank expression. Inwards however, she wished this day had never come about.

"Don't worry Daphne, you'll have a splendid night. You're with me after all." He grinned audaciously, giving her hand a squeeze and slightly puffing up his chest which caused her to sigh internally.

Cassius liked her. A lot. And she… felt absolutely nothing for him and likely never would.

In all practicality, Daphne felt nothing for anyone or anything.

Love was simply a fantasy after all. One that she had accepted at a very young age, she'd never get to experience again.

Feeling as though someone was watching her, she carefully looked up and her eyes met her father's.

Cold, electric blue eyes regarded her as her true objective for being here today replayed in her mind.

Daphne was here for one person and one person only.

Potter.

How did people make friends again?

CwD

Soft music played throughout the room, their melodies drifting through the air like a siren's song, enticing one or two guests to the dance floor as the night progressed.

Daphne, however, wasn't one of them.

"Introducing Lord and Lady Leonard Fedor of the House of Fedor…" The announcer announced as Daphne stood off to the side, swishing around a glass of red wine in her hand.

After the whispers and looks of awe that was directed at her family and their entourage of the Malfoy's and Warrington's, it was almost an hour later when she had managed to slip away with Cassius struggling to keep up behind her.

Daphne hated their leers and indirect remarks.

The people that could only wonder about her status treated her as if she was some rare, intriguing animal. The eldest child of a house as illustrious as the Greengrass', mysteriously having their heiress title removed and given to the younger daughter... what more could they want for gossip?

If it wasn't that, it was making subtle inquiries for Daphne's hand in marriage. They knew she was betrothed and yet they believed they themselves were a better match. Some of these men were her father's age! The way they looked at her… if she had known Legilimency, she'd probably be sick.

For most of these men, age was simply a number. As long as the woman had holes, they were breedable according to them.

Disgusting creatures…

"Daphne! Wait up will you…!"

"I will be fine Cassius. You don't need to stay with me the entire evening."

Cassius had an affronted look on his face. "I am your date, more importantly... your betrothed! I believe it's my job-" He began when he was suddenly surrounded by a gaggle of young giggling girls and his once tense mood instantly did a one-eighty.

"Thank Morgana…" Daphne mumbled under her breath. She needed a break and his personality was not something she quite cared for at the moment.

Moving away from the swarming crowd, Daphne went towards the side of the wall. It allowed her to have a good view of the entire gala and try as she might, she still couldn't see if Potter was here.

She allowed a small smile to appear on her face when a tiny elf offered her a glass of wine before she returned back to her thoughts, sipping on the wine every few seconds.

Maybe father was wrong and Potter's not even going to turn up. It's been almost two hours since the event as started… if he's not going to turn up then at least this evening will be somewhat tolerable…

Whilst Daphne was contemplating her plan for one Harry Potter, a surprised voice interrupted from her left.

"G-Greengrass."

Daphne blinked before turning her head to the voice.

"Davis." She replied coolly as Tracey Davis materialised out of nowhere next to her.

The shorter girl wore a cute black dress that extended down to just past her knees and instantly, Daphne was jealous.

Hell would have to freeze over if Daphne ever got wear something like what Tracey was wearing.

"What a surprise! I don't think I've seen you attend these sorts of functions before, Greengrass…" Tracey said with a tilt of her head; her brown curls bouncing at the action.

She's fishing.

Daphne gave a half shrug in response.

It was true. Ever since her father had removed her heiress title and given it over to Astoria, Daphne was never required to attend any of the formal gatherings.

Not to say that she didn't want to attend… in fact, she did.

Daphne loved dressing up and looking pretty. It was a hobby of hers. She didn't care for the guests or the event itself because it wasn't her duty to but instead, wanted to use the formal get-togethers, as a way to try out the new pieces of clothing.

Perhaps she was a little vain.

Her philosophy was that as she was blessed with good looks, it was only right that Daphne show it off. She was given an allowance and with it, the only things she'd buy were materialistic items.

Garments, jewellery, shoes and even more garments.

Everyone had a little thing that they used to get away from their daily lives.

For her, it was fashion. Her escape. It was the only thing she had left that she enjoyed.

Soon though, she'd be married off to Cassius and the aspirations and goals she had set in her life were all going to die away. Though, as Daphne really thought about it, perhaps her little hobby of hers was just a way for people to recognise that she existed.

The contract that they had agreed on was harsh and heavily restrictive on her. Cassius had every opportunity to amend the contract but like usual, it was either he simply didn't know or didn't care.

At the end of the day, it was what her father determined and naturally, she'd obey.

Daphne had no other alternative. She did not want to end up becoming the once, Andromeda Black, a woman from the House of Black who'd became a blood traitor for going against her family.

Her father had always reminded her that he wouldn't hesitate to do the same to her.

Tracey hummed before swiping a similar glass of wine from a floating silver plate and stood next to the blonde.

A silence ensued between the two which was slowly becoming awkward.

Though she and Tracey shared a dorm at school, they were merely… acquaintances or so Daphne had thought.

A fleeting memory appeared in her mind of a small, shy brunette asking if they could be friends back in their First Year. That was until the memory melted into the same brunette's eyes, tearing up due to the cruel words Daphne had said in their Fourth Year, which ended whatever amicable terms they had since their first conversation.

"You look wonderful, D-Greengrass."

The same, automatic answer that she had repeated so many times during the night, was on the tip of Daphne's tongue. That was until she turned to look at Tracey and saw a genuine expression dancing on the freckled brunette's face.

Daphne's mind froze as if she forgot how to respond.

Reinforcing her Occlumency, she took a silent breath. Her face was still impassive but her eyes softened as she regarded the smaller girl next to her who's demeanour became timid the longer Daphne took to respond.

Daphne's lips warbled. "Thank you D-Davis… You look wonderful too."

Noticing her lips, Tracey's eyes widened before she offered the blonde a beaming smile in return before the two girls turned and looked at the scene in front of them and instantly, the once content mood between the two, disappeared.

The duo watched how Cassius laughed along with the obnoxious looking girls; a goofy grin plastered on his face as a dark-haired teen pressed her chest provocatively against his arm.

"What a slimy little git! Honestly! Doesn't it bother you that Warrington is getting mobbed by a bunch of horny little girls and that it looks as if he's enjoying every second of it?" Tracey growled.

"No."

"N-No?"

Daphne maintained her cool exterior as she closed her eyes and took a sip of wine from her glass.

Tracey gazed at her in disbelief and waited to see if Daphne would elaborate but when it was clear she wouldn't, her cheeks puffed up in anger.

"It's disrespectful, Daphne! Flirting around with other women so publicly when the person you're going to marry is right in front of you… Fine. If you're not going to say anything, then I will…" The curly haired girl muttered as she placed her glass on a table next to her.

"I do not appreciate you butting in other people's business, Davis." Daphne reprimanded coldly, clasping her hand around the brunette's wrist causing Tracey to pause in her step and turn to look incredulously at the blonde.

"Your betrothed is mocking you, humiliating you even, and you'd rather stand here and chastise me?"

Daphne's nostrils flared before she sighed.

"You don't understand." Daphne said monotonously, unhanding Tracey who rubbed her wrist.

"Then help me to!"

"Why? What would explaining the reason to you, do?"

Tracey stopped her retort before looking despondently at the beautiful blonde who had narrowed her eyes.

"I-I-I don't know. I-I just don't want my f-friends getting hurt…" She said in a small voice, her shoulders sagging.

"I don't recall us ever being friends," The blonde began harshly, turning her back on the brunette and walked away until she stopped in her step. "Do not get involved in things you don't understand, Davis." She ended dispassionately, leaving a dejected looking Tracey behind.

Tracey watched Daphne glide away through the parting crowd until she couldn't see her any longer.

She felt utterly awful.

"Was that Daphne just now, Trace?" A feminine voice asked the brunette who looked up at the new interruption.

"Lily… Y-Yeah it was."

Lily Moon, Tracey's friend and dorm mate, gave a sympathetic smile to the glum looking girl. "Still no luck, huh?"

Tracey shook her head before sighing, "I-I really thought today could be it. That she'd finally want to be friends again. She looked ever so lonely, Lily… It was really obvious today!"

"Give her time, Trace. I'm sure she's got a lot on her mind. You've heard the rumours about her family. Not to mention…" The black-haired girl cast her eyes at the ever so popular Cassius Warrington and grimaced as she watched him drink from a goblet one of the girls from his entourage gave him.

"He doesn't deserve her." Tracey hissed as her eyes narrowed.

Lily chuckled, "Funny, you sound like Ropier only, the opposite. I still remember the hissy fit the bitch had when she found out about their betrothal."

"Thanks Lily." Tracey growled sarcastically at her friend who held her hands up before her face grew serious.

"Look, don't get involved, Tracey." Lily warned, placing her hand on her friend's forearm. "So far, she's been pretty reserved but don't push your luck. All it takes is for someone to get the wrong impression and then word will travel until it reaches Daphne's father. That's the last thing anyone wants especially our families."

Tracey grimaced but nevertheless nodded.

"Chin up girl. You're wearing such a pretty dress that does wonders for your tits. Last thing anyone needs to see is such an ugly face on such a sexy body." Lily cackled, deftly avoiding the swipe from the scowling girl who's sour expressions began lifting.

Glancing one last time in the direction Daphne had walked off to, Tracey set her sights on the laughing black-haired girl and thought of ways on how she was going to get her back.

CwD

"Careful dear," A voice said, cutting through Daphne's thoughts as the blonde looked up, "A lady must always keep her head held high lest she walks in to someone."

Standing in front of her was a middle-aged woman with smooth, silver hair. She had the most curious amber eyes and was dressed in a very flattering, cream coloured gown.

The woman was beautiful and had a calming presence to her that quelled some of Daphne's conflicting emotions as the younger girl's etiquette kicked in.

"My apologises-"

"My oh my, aren't you just simply wonderful looking!" The woman interrupted; her eyes as wide as saucers. She closed the distance between herself and Daphne until she stood face to face, close enough that Daphne had to lean back slightly. The woman stared at Daphne inquisitively until her face relaxed and a serene smile came upon her lips.

"What is your name child?"

"D-Daphne ma'am. Daphne Greengrass."

"And a beautiful name to boot! Greengrass…Green… Grass," She hummed, leaving Daphne's personal space, "Yes... Your name is ringing some bells. Your ancestor was the famous Cecelia, no?"

The young blonde's eyes darkened immediately, her face instantly going cold as she clenched her fists hard.

That name was poison.

The very cause of her entire misfortune.

"Relax child. I hold no prejudice against your family for that woman did. It was a troublesome time after all…" The amber eyed woman said sympathetically before she paused and looked intently at Daphne.

It was strange.

Daphne felt as though her soul was completely bare in front of this woman as the intensity at which she was being surveyed felt immeasurable.

"W-Who-"

"I feel as though you need to hear this," The strange woman interjected, invading Daphne's personal space again, "There is no curse more twisted than love, dear Daphne. You'll feel like you've lost your way but… never lose hope." The woman whispered, her amber eyes flickering against the light.

"I-I don't understand…" Daphne said startled.

"Not yet. Perhaps… one day, you will." The woman finished knowingly.

"Perry! At last! You do know how to worry a man." A familiar voice cut through as Daphne looked unexpectedly when Albus Dumbledore joined the two of them.

"H-Headmaster?"

"Oh, hello there, Miss Greengrass. I did not quite see you there. I do hope you are having a pleasant evening, my dear." Dumbledore said with a small smile as he looked down at the girl. He was decked out in bright purple robes that made the old man stand out like a sore thumb.

Daphne cleared her throat, "Y-Yes sir." She said, blinking owlishly between Dumbledore and Perry who hadn't taken her eyes off Daphne.

"Ah! I have seen you have had the privilege of meeting a dear friend of mine. This is…", Dumbledore stopped, noticing Perry's eyes shift to him whilst also raising a well-manicured eyebrow, "Mrs Perry Le'Malf." He finished with a dubious sounding chuckle as Mrs Le'Malf cleared her throat.

Daphne had never seen her Headmaster act so uncertain in her life.

The normally eccentric wizard she was so used to seeing in feasts at school was all but absent. It was almost as if he was being chastised like a child which when she thought about it, the image translated into something insanely bizarre in her mind.

"Here with your family, Miss Greengrass?"

"Yes sir." Daphne stiffened slightly.

If Perry and Dumbledore had noticed, they did not comment.

"And how are they?" He asked kindly as the older woman watched the back and forth curiously.

Daphne's voice went monotone, "Well, thank you."

Dumbledore's expression fell as he regarded his detached-sounding student before he gave Daphne a genial smile. "Excellent. I was not aware you knew Miss Greengrass, Perry?" Dumbledore asked the other woman, raising an eyebrow.

"Just got acquainted actually, Albie. Daphne is such a fascinating young lady; I just couldn't help myself." Perry answered, grinning at Dumbledore's reaction to his name.

Daphne once again looked back and forth between the two.

Here she was at a Gala, with a mission to befriend Harry Potter of all people, all the while talking to one of the strangest women she had ever met, who, although seemed to look like she was in her mid-thirties, had a hold on her very own Headmaster who was at least triple the woman's age.

The same headmaster who was the most powerful wizard in the country, seemed to even defer to the woman which raised many questions in her very confused brain.

What a peculiar woman…

It seemed to Daphne that there was a lot of unexpected happenings going on today and unbeknownst to her, it most definitely wasn't over.

"EEEP!"

The shriek was so out of the blue, it cut off all sound allowing silence to manifest in the large room.

The band that was playing soft music in the corner stilled their instruments as even them, the staff and the guests zeroed in on the noise, their eyes roaming around until they locked onto the announcer near the entrance of the event, who looked as if he was going to pass out as he stared down at a piece of parchment in his hand.

"Really Albie… Le'Malf… Is that really the best you could come up with?" Daphne heard the strange womanwhispering behind her, but the conversation between her headmaster and his friend fell on deaf ears as Daphne, and like others around her, had their attention focused elsewhere.

"Uh…" The announcer began.

Due to the sonorous charm still being in effect, his voice bounced around the large room, the sound so loud, that it effectively cut off all remaining mutterings, replacing the once lively atmosphere with an eerie silence that made the hair on the blonde's skin stand up in attention.

Daphne knew.

She didn't know how she did, but she knew.

She could feel it. Deep down in the very fibres of her skin.

The blonde shivered, a tingling feeling came rolling down her back as she involuntarily rubbed her arms up and down with her hands. It was as if someone was dragging their finger down her spine, leaving only featherlight touches behind.

A palpable energy filled the opulent room as everyone, guests and staff, looked anticipatedly towards the entrance of the venue.

"How wonderful! Finally, he's finally here, Albie… Oh, how long I've waited to meet him…"

"Indeed…" Dumbledore replied softly, his blue eyes glowed with restrained power behind his half-mooned glasses as the Premier Mage of Magical Britain stored his hands in the sleeves of his robes and stared directly at the large double doors that slowly creaked open.

He could feel the Elder Wand that was in his sleeve softly vibrating as if it was yearning to be reunited with its owner.

It was how he always knew where the boy was.

Dumbledore may have won the notorious wand from Gellert all those many years ago, except, he would never have earned its true allegiance.

No, that was only reserved for those that held the blood of its original owners.

It was why the wand constantly sought not only Harry, but Tom too.

The last remaining Peverells.

Dumbledore flared out his magic; a technique that removed his normal sight and allowed him to see the magical properties of his surroundings. Focusing on the double doors, he directed his magic towards it and was shocked at what he saw.

Harry had changed. Drastically at that. The warring magic that he felt at the end of the battle at the Ministry had all but disappeared.

Perhaps sending him back to his relatives worked at calming his fluctuating magic?

Although theoretically possible due to the Blood Wards, the process should have taken much longer…

No…

This is something else entirely. Something that should not have been possible to accomplish in such a short time…

As he thought of the possibilities, he felt opposing magic strike back at his own from behind the door.

The magic felt untrained and powerless but there was a certain level of resilience behind its force. Almost as if it was trying to block him from seeing further…

For the first time in a while, Dumbledore allowed a genuine smile to coat his wrinkled, old face as his excitement bubbled.

"I know that look…" Perry muttered next to him, rolling her eyes fondly at the young man.

Harry had changed. How, Dumbledore did not know and he most definitely would find out as he watched in eagerness as the doors opened more and more.

And what an entrance it will be… He inwardly chuckled, Charlus always loved his theatrics and as he had passed them on to James, his grandson most definitely inherited the same proclivities.

The air itself stilled in anticipation. A small, subtle shift in the environment that only a few more magically acute individuals felt.

Daphne wasn't one of them and yet, she could feel it. The very same presence that she felt that very same night when she was held in his arms.

Only… it was different.

There was a certain level of intensity, one that she'd never felt before in his company and it was lurking behind the slowly opening doors.

It brought out emotions she'd experienced before and at the same time, emotions she never knew existed.

Fear and… euphoria and for the latter, she had no idea why she felt that way.

The announcer cleared his throat loudly, the sound not deterring the observers as their whispers grew, watching the creaking double doors open wider and wider until the closer observers could see the outline of two silhouettes.

"I-I-Introducing… L-Lord… Hadrian Potter of the Noble and Ancient House of Potter and the lovely Madam Andr-" Daphne felt her mind fading away the moment she heard his name, focusing on nothing else except his eyes.

Emerald eyes that seemed to flicker in the light as he stood framed by large doorway.

Finally… Harry Potter had arrived.

CwD

"Remember what I told you before, Hadrian. There are quite a lot of unsavoury individuals here today as well as quite a few foreign guests too. Keep calm and control your feelings. Tonight is not the night to be exchanging spells." Andromeda whispered as Harry minutely nodded.

He surveyed the room, his eyes locking onto as many people he could see. Emotions ranging from awe, happiness, disbelief, anger and outright hate, was displayed on the guests faces but it was those who looked at him with indifference and inquisitiveness, the ones he took careful note of.

Two blondes were unmistakeable and Harry had to visibly clench his fist in an attempt to not rush the pompous looking form of Lucius Malfoy.

Though from the blonde's expression, Harry took some satisfaction in the fact that the oily fucker had never looked so shocked in his life. His gob was open, his eyebrows high and the cruelness from his eyes were all but gone as Lucius stared at him in utter disbelief.

But it was the woman next to him that caused Harry to raise an eyebrow.

Narcissa Malfoy, from the time he had met her at the Quidditch World Cup, he thought of her as the perfect addition to the Malfoy family. She had an air of superiority, as if everyone and everything was here to do her bidding and yet today, it looked as if she had seen a ghost.

The admittedly gorgeous blonde had her eyes not at him, but at Andromeda who from his peripheral, was looking anywhere but in Narcissa's direction.

Probably the first time the two are seeing each other in Merlin knows how long.

Dumbledore of course, stood out from the crowd like Harry usually did with the Dursleys. The old man was beaming at him from across the room which Harry completely ignored, turning his head completely away from his direction.

He had a bone to pick with him after all, so he'd deal with Dumbledore and his annoying propensities later.

"L-Lord Potter." The announcer began nervously.

"Yes?" Harry turned to look at the nervous man.

"It seems you and Madam T-Tonks are the final guests for the night. If you would go ahead and join the others, the Minister will be saying a few words. Refreshments are located around the side and are also being distributed, so do help yourselves to whatever catches your fancy."

Turning his head to where the announcer indicated the Minister was, Harry made sure to carefully hide his growing sneer. The bumbling fool looked as if he was about to have a fit with the way his lackeys were whispering in his ear, the paleness of his face and the sweat building up on his forehead. The constant looks in his direction didn't dissuade the fact that Fudge looked more panicked than ever before.

Serves the idiot coward right. Harry scowled in his mind.

The sooner Fudge and his administration was gone, the higher the chance that less people would die.

Harry smiled thankfully at the announcer, "Thank you, Mr…?"

The man beamed, "Grenthorn, Oliver Grenthorn. My daughter, Olivia, speaks very highly of you, Lord Potter.

"Grenthorn? Oh right, the Fourth Year Gryff," Harry nodded, "I remember Olivia asking me for help for DADA last year. She's definitely got talent; you should be very proud."

"Thank you, my Lord." The announcer replied with wide eyes before gratefully, bowing his head.

Harry nodded until he refocused his gaze on the room. His grandfather's memory on wandless magic coming to the forefront of his mind…

"Wandless magic is a difficult concept to accomplish except; I have no doubt that it'll come naturally to you. You see, the way my father taught me, was to first learn how to use wandless magic on your body itself and its immediate surroundings before you get to the more complicated stuff."

"On my body?" Harry questioned as Charlus nodded in his painting.

"A hair colour changing charm for example, or a switching charm to replace your lousy slippers for your boots. Small things like that, which not only doesn't take a lot of magic to do, but it also isn't very complicated. If you can master the small things son, the harder things will be easier to accomplish…"

Harry took a silent breath, squeezing back on Andromeda's hand.

It was now or never.

"Some wine, Andi?" Harry asked innocently. He made sure to speak loud enough for the closer individuals to hear.

Andromeda looked up at the young man's smirking face and narrowed her eyes before sighing.

"Behave…"

"I'll take that as a yes." He grinned.

Closing his eyes, Harry felt the magic in his body reacting to his desire. Squaring his shoulders, he flared out his magic and felt it explode as if a firework had gone off, scattering from every corner of his body. The grip Andromeda had on his arm tightened as he heard gasps from the people around his direct vicinity.

Since his encounter with Andromeda's cousin, Harry had a lot of practice with Charlus on how to reign in his oppressive aura when it leaked out. After much failure and a lot of property destruction, it wasn't long at all until he had finally managed to control his aura enough so when he'd release it, the magic wouldn't completely leave him depleted.

Controlling the same volatile magic he had involuntarily used back in Diagon Alley, Harry forcefully pushed it down towards his feet. He could feel the power surge down his legs and he knew he'd done it correctly.

A smirk appeared on his face as opened his now glowing eyes until finally, Harry took a single step forward. Instantly, the tangible atmosphere changed.

The room seemed transformed. Charged with an electric energy that made the hairs of Harry and Andromeda's observers stand.

Murmurs broke out as the guests watched on with growing awe and fear. Even the ones who had nothing but disdain towards Harry couldn't argue the fact that the power move was effective.

In one single action, Harry had proved to any potential doubters that he may in fact, be the real deal, that there might be a modicum of truth behind the rumours that people had heard over the years about the young Lord.

The pressure from his little stunt was felt all around. With each step he took, a pulse of magic shot from the pair like the vibrations of a beating heart. For the ones who were not as magically stout, it felt as though an invisible entity was pushing them back little by little, many people moving out of the duo's way as they walked by.

Matthias Greengrass watched the young Lord and his partner carefully, his fascinated expression hidden completely from his face.

"He is nothing like what I had imagined." Malakai Warrington said in his same baritone voice as he walked up to the blonde man.

"Indeed," Matthias began, "I am beginning to question whether or not Daphne had lied to me."

"Perhaps…"

"What do you think of him?"

Malakai watched Potter sharply, his brown eyes focusing on every aspect of him. The way he walked, his posture and then finally, his magic. There was something about it that felt familiar…

Blocking out his surroundings, Malakai concentrated on the boy's magic, pushing out tendrils of his own to get a feel of the type of magic Potter was currently utilising.

That was a mistake.

The silver haired wizard felt his body stiffen instantly as a sharp tearing sound screeched in his ears causing him to wince and forcefully break his Magic Sight.

When he looked back up, he was met with emerald, killing curse eyes that had turned to his direction and was staring at him directly from across the room.

Something is wrong…

Malakai's instincts were all screaming at him to break eye contact which he did with haste as he placed his hand on his head, feeling as if a headache was approaching. Growling softly, he had to restrain himself to not pull out his wand and curse the foe that had made him, of all people, feel unsettled in his own skin.

The power that ran through Malakai's veins was mighty enough that he was never truly frightened of anyone but his interaction with the Potter boy was different to anything he had ever experienced before.

His pride was damaged.

A boy younger than his own son had unnerved him.

"Well?"

Malakai returned his gaze back to Harry who was no longer watching him. The brown eyed wizard watched how the young Lord offered a glass of wine to the blood traitor before they began speaking in soft whispers.

"He is dangerous."

"It is as I thought…" Matthias whispered, his eyes never leaving Harry's form.

"I could feel a power in him. Something untrained and volatile. Something dangerous. His magic is potent and if his abilities are nurtured, his strength will be considerable."

"How powerful? Like Dumbledore? Like…"

The Dark Lord?

Sharp, emerald, green fires flashed in Malakai's mind.

"I do not know…"

CwD

"…The Ministry will always have this country's best interests at its centre and I, your Minister of Magic, Cornelius Oswald Fudge, will continue to protect and support this country and its people, during these dark and perilous times… "

"…Together, we have accomplished much but there is still more to do to ensure the wellbeing of our community from the dark forces that attempt to overrun it. With your trust and backing as you have continued to do so, any obstacle that may arise, I am confident we can overcome it… together! Thank you, my friends on your unwavering support!" Fudge finished, his cheeks red in exhaustion as he beamed at the crowd who, he was too obtuse to see, had apathetic looks on their faces.

"Finally! You'd think he'd never stop talking." Harry grouched.

Andromeda chuckled. "Oh darling, that little speech of his was hardly anything. Once you take up your seat on the Wizengamot, there will be a lot more than this."

"I can hardly wait…" Came the sarcastic reply of the teen. He looked around the room, focusing on the guests he could see.

"Judging by their faces, it's honestly kinda funny how Fudge thinks he'll still be running office by the end of the summer." Harry muttered, munching on his forth bite-sized piece of treacle tart.

"His hard-headedness cost him. Only those within his administration remain as his only supporters." Andromeda said, her lip curling as she watched the Minister blundering about in front of uninterested group.

Harry hummed, "Wonder who'll be the next Minister..."

"Dora mentioned there being rumours of Madam Bones wanting the position."

"Susan's aunt."

"Madam Bones was two years younger than me when I was in Hogwarts. From what I know of her, she is a good woman." Andromeda mentioned, drumming her nails on the side of her glass.

"She was at my stupid hearing. Now that I think about it, I do remember her being pretty fair. Nym seems to trust her so that seems good enough for me."

"It was terrible hearing about her brother, Edgar and his wife Suzette… Such a terrible incident. They were in the Order before he and his wife were murdered by Death Eaters." Andromeda said with a heavy sigh.

"Susan's parents…" Harry realised sadly, his eyes tracking the buxom redhead as she laughed at something Ernie Macmillan had said. She was just like him and it was honestly depressing he hadn't known sooner. It would've been nice to talk to someone who had gone through something similar.

During the course of the night, many Lords and Ladies had regained their wits and albeit warily, came to speak to him and Andromeda after seeing the carefree attitude they both exuded.

Most discussions were kept to very benign topics such as how school was going for him and what he planned to do in the future which were topics he could handle.

Harry spoke calmly and kept his answers vague enough that most was happy with his answers. He had learnt a lot from his grandparents on how to read people and though practice, compared to the real thing was entirely two different worlds, judging from the smile Andromeda directed to him over the course of the evening, he reckoned he was doing pretty well.

"Lord Potter, you never explicitly defined the relationship you had with Madam Tonks…" Allen Abbot, who insisted he be called 'Al' asked. Judging from the other Lords and Ladies who had surrounded them and even the ones lurking around, it seemed they were very interested in the connection.

"Aunt Andromeda and my late mother were good friends. As you know, like the Longbottom's, the Potters were targeted during the last war by V… You-Know-Who… and as such, the status of their relationship was kept hidden for their safety. We only reconnected recently." Harry finished, shooting a warm smile to the woman on his arm as she smiled back.

Everyone stiffened at Harry's almost slip up, some visually trembling at even the mention of Voldemort's moniker.

"Y-Y-You've never said your plans for your personal future, Lord Potter?" Lady Robins questioned, swiftly changing the subject much to Harry's amusement, "There a lucky lady somewhere along the line…?" The Welsh woman giggled nervously, causing most to release an audible sigh.

"Uh… Not at the moment, Lady Robins-"

"-In that case, I must introduce you to my beautiful daughter, Imogen, Lord Potter!" Lord Ernest Hawksworth interrupted causing most to scowl at the man.

"Ernest how crass! We had an agreement, you cheat!" Someone shouted as Harry blinked in mortification as the crowd's noise level increased.

"My granddaughter has told me she's more than interested too, Lord Potter! She may be a little up in the years and in size, but she'll put some hairs on your che-"

"-Grandpapa, how could you!" A girl wailed who Harry guessed was the granddaughter, before she barrelled through the animated crowd.

This whole situation was beginning to get quickly out of hand as people began to shout out proposals as if Harry was being sold at some auction.

"Andi…" The young Lord begged whilst Andromeda struggled to stifle her giggles.

"Hadrian," She began, her voice silencing the crowd, "While appreciates the sentiment, is not considering any proposals at this moment as he's focusing currently on his schooling. Perhaps in the future, he'll be more open to your offers." She said with a pleasant smile; the crowd reluctantly accepting.

CwD

Dinner came along soon enough, which brought about its own problems. Problems which Harry wanted to avoid completely but when those problems concerned one Albus Dumbledore, the teen figured out a long time ago that if push comes to shove, the old man will likely have his way most of the time.

The situation at dinner was one of those times.

"Does this not bring back pleasant memories, m'boy-"

"-My grandfather wants a word." Harry interjected, swiftly cutting of the wizened wizard.

"Yes… Nymphadora did mention something about Charlus… I suppose you've found a magical portrait of him then?" Dumbledore asked with a sigh as he watched the young man cut his duck into cubes.

Somehow, though Harry was definitely sure it was the old man's doing, he and Andromeda had been placed on a table with Dumbledore and his friend who had a pair of one of the most striking eyes Harry had seen. Finishing the group was strangely, Neville's gran, Augusta Longbottom, who, much to Harry's glee, was still rocking her weird, stuffed vulture hat.

Harry nodded, seeing no reason to lie to Dumbledore.

"And Grandma. She's ever so pleased to hear that you're coming to visit." Harry innocently added, enjoying the way the old man stiffened in his seat.

"Harry-"

"Until you speak to them, Dumbledore, I don't want to speak to you. Besides, didn't you already send a letter regarding our impeding conversation for tomorrow?"

"Yes, however-"

"-Ergo, I don't want to speak to you now. I'm in a pleasant mood Headmaster, I'd rather nothing ruin it." Harry finished, scowling at Dumbledore who let out another sigh at the stubborn teen.

"Very well. Nevertheless Harry, I do have to apologise for tomorrow as our upcoming meeting will have to be postponed for a later date. Unfortunately, a situation has arisen which requires my utmost attention."

Harry shrugged. "So, when then?"

"I will be sure to let you know beforehand." Dumbledore replied tiredly.

Soon enough, the tense situation shifted as Dumbledore, thankfully, excused himself along with Augusta a few minutes after who had been quietly conversing with Andromeda.

"I didn't know you knew Neville's gran."

Andromeda nodded before her eyes lost their shine. "I sometimes see her and her grandson during their visits to the Janus Thickey Ward."

Harry nodded before offering Andromeda a smile which she returned with a sad one of her own.

"Thanks for not getting involved. With Dumbledore." The teen said after a moment.

Andromeda gave him a fond smile. "Only unless you needed me to, sweetie."

Opposite the twosome, Perrywatched the interaction carefully until she cleared her throat, reminding them of her presence.

"Do forgive dear Albie. He really does have the best intentions at heart no matter how foolish his ideas might be." The amber-eyed woman said, an exasperated look on her beautiful face as she daintily wiped at her lips before standing.

"Sorry ma'am, I didn't quite catch your name…?" Harry asked with a tilt of his head.

"Perenelle Le'Malf," She said before chuckling, "Though do call me Perry. I had actually come to see you today, my dear, but quickly realised that it perhaps wasn't the most appropriate setting."

"Confused?" Perry asked amusedly when Harry looked bewilderingly at Andromeda who also seemed puzzled.

Perry leaned down so only the two could hear before whispering, "I show not your face but your heart's-"

"-Desire." Harry finished, looking wide eyed at the woman as he put two and two together.

Perry smiled brilliantly at him.

"Nic sends his regards. He was unable to make it unfortunately but did tell me to extend an invitation for a spot of brunch whenever you're free Harry Potter." She said warmly, "I do hope you'll accept dearie."

"O-Of course."

"Très bien. Look out for our owl!" She ended, offering a confused Andromeda and a gobsmacked Harry one last smile before she happily strolled away.

CwD

Dinner was a relatively uneventful affair apart from Dumbledore and the small revelation that his friend was the wife of Nicholas Flamel. After giving a quick rundown of the situation to Andromeda who was also naturally surprised, plates were cleared away and drinks were poured as couples had slowly begun entering the dance floor, eager to show off their moves.

Harry hummed along to a tune that the small band was playing as he watched a few couples swaying to the music. He could help but recollect of his time when he himself was in a similar situation with his bushy haired friend until a sigh left his mouth.

He still hadn't gotten round to sending off a response to Hermione's letter and it beginning to bug him.

It was bugging him because he had all the time in the world to write up a response and he didn't. It was like he was purposely avoiding the whole ordeal.

Perhaps I'm being petty. Not like she sent anything to me last summer… He rubbed his eyes; I'll send my reply once I get home. Yeah… that's what I'll do.

"Thinking of someone special?" Andromeda asked knowingly, her heels clicked as she walked up to the taller man.

"You." Harry replied seamlessly, putting the matter of Hermione in the back of his mind.

"I hope you are sweetie because you owe me a dance." Andromeda smirked, offering her hand to Harry who rolled his eyes good naturedly before bowing over the limb.

"Would you do me the honour of sharing a dance with me, my Lady?"

Andromeda beamed, "I would be delighted, my Lord." She replied, dropping a curtesy.

Harry escorted Andromeda to the ballroom floor, flawlessly joining all the other active dancers as they moved with the melody. As guests saw the duo begin to dance, it wasn't long before the floor was filled with many more couples, all dancing along to the music.

"How am I doing?" Harry whispered, a tinge of nervousness in his voice, narrowly missing an elderly couple who looked as if they had a goal of bumping into as many people as they could see.

"Perfectly, my dear. See, what did I tell you. If you put your mind in to something-"

"Anything's possible, yeah yeah." Harry muttered, twirling around a giggling Andromeda.

The older woman looked as if she was having the best night of her life and Harry wanted to ensure it stayed that way. He had vowed he would protect that smile and that's what he'd do.

Unbeknownst to the two, three blondes watched the dancing couple from the side-lines, all three with different emotions and thoughts bubbling up inside of them.

Lucius Malfoy watched with growing irritation at the fact that the Potter brat was right in front of him and yet, he couldn't do anything especially when his Master forbade him from acting out…

"Let the fools have their night of naivety, Lucius. Allow them to think that their evening will have any significance to them overcoming me and our goals." Voldemort said nonchalantly, perusing a tome in the large library of the Malfoys.

"And what of the boy, my Lord? Sources have told me that Potter will be there."

Voldemort paused, closing the book and placing it down on a table. Crimson eyes turned to regard the blonde dispassionately.

"And nothing, my slippery friend. Harry I am sure, is required to attend due to his new found title…" The Dark Lord said, sneering down at his follower who had the decency to look ashamed. "Nevertheless, after the little stunt dear Harry pulled in Diagon Alley with Evan's wife, I am most curious about this sudden development of his and how far he will go… Yes… You will do nothing, Lucius. With the old fool being there which I know he will be, I highly doubt you will be able to do anything at all…"

The Malfoy Lord grimaced as Evan Rosier stood sullenly with Crabbe and Jugson. The fool was pouting like a child ever since his demand to skin Potter for what he had done to his wife, was denied by the Dark Lord, though Lucius couldn't blame Evan.

He hated the arrogant half-blood with a passion, scowling murderously when the brat had the nerve to smirk at him from across the hall.

He'd kill him. For the Dark Lord and for the suffering Potter befell on his family, Lucius swore he'd end his pitiful existence himself.

"Excuse me." Lucius mumbled out, stomping towards the restroom, leaving behind his wife Narcissa who shot her pathetic husband a sneer before her gaze snapped back to her.

Narcissa watched with an impassive face the way Potter effortlessly twirled around her sister and she couldn't help the conflicting feelings arising within her.

Seeing Andromeda resurfaced memories long forgotten and hidden deep away of Narcissa's childhood days. The days where it was just Cissy, Bella and Andi. The days when everything was perfect.

Andromeda's matureness was why Bellatrix and Narcissa admired her so much. Her unwavering confidence and assurance coupled with a powerful sense of poise and elegance… her eldest sister was the perfect model Black. The perfect daughter a pureblood would be proud to have.

The person Narcissa aspired to be.

That was until it all fell apart.

Betrayed by the very same sister who they admired, drove Bella to the Dark Lord whilst Narcissa was left behind to pick up the pieces of Andromeda's betrayal.

Narcissa sighed as she enforced her Occlumency, driving away the unhappy memories.

Her sister looked stunning.

Andromeda had aged like fine Elven wine and she looked… happy. Truly happy.

She couldn't help the bitter feelings that manifested within her.

Here Narcissa was, miserable, hurt and frightened not only for herself, but for her only son whilst her estranged older sister, cavorted about as if she didn't even have a care in the world.

Andromeda was banished from the family. Stripped off her titles and could no longer call herself a Black. A name so prominent that it was known throughout the world as the one who sat at the pinnacle of all the other Coloured Houses. She was a Blood Traitor who ran away with a mudblood, renouncing her heritage and yet, she looked… content.

The blonde's eyes shifted to the young man that held her, an equally joyous expression on his handsome face.

It seemed it was because of Potter.

Everything… seemed to be because of Potter.

The source of her husband's hate, the source of Bella's unnatural obsession and the source of Andi's happiness…

What's so special about Potter?

For Lucius, the boy had humiliated him, placed doubt on his reputation and his standing with the Dark Lord. Three perfectly reasonable reasons to hate someone Narcissa supposed.

For Bella… Well… Bella was Bella, the blonde thought with an inward grimace.

She was almost positive that Bellatrix's unhealthy infatuation with the Boy-Who-Lived would implode. When that was, she didn't know but she hoped it would be soon.

It would be better for everyone lest the Dark Lord finds out…

But what was the connection between Andromeda and Potter?

Narcissa pondered her conundrum thoughtfully before an insane idea wormed into her mind as her eyes widened in disbelief.

S-Surely t-they can't be…

L-Lovers…?!

The horrified blonde watched the duo closely and she did not like the things she was seeing as the crazy idea began taking root in her brain.

Morgana forbid if Bella finds out…

Narcissa shook her head vigorously from side to side as if denying it herself would ensure it wasn't true.

I really need some wine…

On the other side of the room, also watching the dance floor stood the final blonde.

Her electric blue eyes tracked his every move. From every sway of his jet-black hair to every partition of his feet.

Harry Potter had changed. Drastically.

He was taller. Much taller and he had definitely filled out a lot more. The robes he wore actually fit him as compared to the rags she had seen him wear at school.

The dark red and black robes looked immaculate paired with his house's crest displayed proudly on his breast. Potter looked the part that the Daily Prophet painted him out to be and more.

It was almost as if he was an entirely different person but she knew that wasn't true.

She had been up close and personal with him after all…

Stupid bloody brain, Daphne berated.

She could feel her cheeks warming remembering again the feel of his calloused hand on her waist. The thinness of her dress making it feel as though he was holding her naked skin… The warmness of his breath on her neck and his utterly intoxicating scent…

Stop!

Ever since her father had given her the stupid task of befriending Potter, that single night her and him shared on that snowy evening, kept replaying in her mind like a magical photograph. Seeing him again in the flesh certainly didn't help especially with how much he'd changed and for the better.

It was a moment of weakness… A moment that should've never happened!

Even Daphne knew that was a weak argument but thinking about that night and how he looked, she couldn't help but compare that Potter to this Potter.

The Potter in front of her looked assertive and commanding. It was like he was embracing his new found title not only by name but through his actions too.

Though it was his emerald orbs that she couldn't help her gaze from compulsorily wandering to every time.

Daphne finally understood. No matter how much she wanted to deny it and yet she knew now why the female population went crazy over them. No longer hindered by his glasses, his emerald eyes looked positively alluring. In all actuality, they always have done, but now they seemed to emit a soft glow which she found utterly enchanting though when Daphne looked closer, she noticed something that made her pause.

He's tense.

Killing curse eyes disregarded nothing, scanning everything and everyone around him. It was as if he was waiting for an attack. An attack Daphne was positive would never come.

She had only heard rumours of what Potter had gone through throughout the years. She was not oblivious like the rest of her peers. During her time in Hogwarts, things were going on in the background that couldn't be explained and the common person who was always involved was Potter. Even the most recent example which revealed the return of the once believed dead Dark Lord had Potter at the centre of the entire situation.

Daphne wasn't sure what had exactly happened causing the Dark Lord to reveal himself but somehow, Potter was involved and now the people had begun calling him the Chosen One.

A title which can only mean one thing given the context…

The pretty, older woman in his arms looked very familiar also. Daphne was sure she had seen a picture of her or something recently but couldn't quite put her finger on where.

I wonder what kind of relationship they have… She thought, dismissing the feeling of irritation festering as she watched Potter smiling down at the older woman.

Daphne's mind once again returned to Potter and how she could approach him. She just needed one single opportunity, one single chance but the how was a different question altogether.

It was when she was contemplating ideas in her mind that her breath caught in her throat as the man in question locked his eyes with hers.

A connection formed as if time had trickled to an abrupt stop as green and blue stared at one another.

A moment of realisation seemed to hit him as Daphne saw his eyes widen slightly before he blinked and once again, his focus went to the older woman in his arms.

Daphne felt herself release a breath she didn't know she was holding. She could feel her heart pounding as if it was going to burst from within.

What is wrong with me? Why am I acting like this?

She was normally cool, detached and completely comfortable with her feelings and yet, what she was feeling today was unlike anything she had ever experienced before.

It was as if she was hit with a cheering charm or-r… she had drunk a… l-lust potion…

Daphne felt her face heating up as the weird feeling in her stomach propagated as obscene images of her and Potter materialised in her mind.

Next time I read those wretched erotic novels of Tracey's, I'll burn them into cinders-

She most definitely was not in love withPotter! That was simply impossible!

The blonde determined her mind was addled due to the stress of the task her father had given her. That was the only logical reason that made sense unless she really did unknowingly drink a lust potion but in that case, she would've jumped someone's bones by now!

She sighed as she felt a headache rearing its ugly head.

Looking around, she sought her date and saw that he was still occupied, thankfully, although, his earlier group seemed to have grown. Joining him were some of his male classmates from his year and that coupled with the earlier gaggle of girls, made up the new group of young adults that Daphne would be staying far, far away from.

She had no interest in speaking to any one of them let alone make idle conversation and offer false platitudes.

Astoria and Draco, she had noticed, had taken a seat at a table that had clear viewing area of the ballroom floor. Draco as usual, was spouting some nonsense whilst glowering at the dance floor most likely about Potter.

Surrounding them were of course Troll One and Troll Two; nicknames which Daphne had dubbed for Crabbe and Goyle. Completing the foursome was Parkinson and Bulstrode.

In Pansy's case, if looks could kill, Astoria would be dead many times over.

The girl looked as if she had sucked an extremely sour lemon, her pug-face reddening as she stared daggers at Astoria who was smirking back at the older girl arrogantly. Pansy's ticket to the wealthy life of being wife to little Draco was all but stolen away by Astoria after all. Despite their differences, Daphne could honestly understand her plight.

Bulstrode on the other hand looked as if Merlin himself had reincarnated in the form of food as she messily dived into the large assortment of confectionaries that was in front of her like that orange Weasel did for every meal at Hogwarts. It was sickening.

Honestly, no wonder the girl looks the way she looks… Daphne huffed internally. To think Millicent had the gall to lie and gossip that Daphne had used permanent cosmetic charms to alter her looks when the bigger girl eats whatever floats in front of her nose.

Daphne sighed again. It seemed she was doing that a lot this evening.

I need some air…

Along with their transfiguration of the Atrium, the Ministry workers with the help of the Magical Maintenance Department, had also transfigured a small, sectioned off area into a magnificent garden.

It couldn't be compared to the majesty that was at her home but it was still beautiful nonetheless and most importantly, peaceful.

Rejecting at least three guys, all of different ages who had asked her for a dance, Daphne eventually made it to the garden. Nodding towards the Auros standing by at its entrance, the blonde began walking through the artificial pathway.

A gentle breeze swayed the leaves of trees and coated the exposed parts of her dress providing a pleasant shiver to roll down her spine. Small faeries flew around far too quickly and the temperate sloshing of water could be heard making the entire atmosphere of the garden faultlessly tranquil.

Looking over some shrubbery, she noticed a lone bench off to the side that overlooked a small pond. The magical moonlight lit up the water and its surroundings, allowing her to see little fishes swimming around aimlessly within. The view was made as if it was out of a storybook she had once read when she was young which is probably what they were going for. In her humble opinion, coming from a family who specialised in Herbology, they had done a pretty excellent job.

Ignoring the shameless stares of the males and the bitter filled ones of their partners, Daphne strode to the bench and gracefully sat down.

Inhaling the cool air, she used her Occlumency to gain a firmer control of her emotions, eventually managing to calm herself down by practicing a few breathing exercises she had read about.

The blonde was way out of her comfort zone. The mission she was given was too much for someone as closed off as her.

Potter was no ordinary person. Arguably one of the most famous people in magical society, a person who she's barely had any interaction with and she was to somehow befriend him.

She needed a new plan.

Once Daphne had thought about it, her original plan of somehow getting him to ask her for a dance and going from there was really out of the question entirely.

She was betrothed and the news of her betrothal was public. An unmarried man dancing with a woman who was already spoken for would make people talk especially because Potter was in the equation.

Her father would not be pleased if that came about. It would destroy the relationship between the Warringtons and his carefully crafted plan of using his own daughter as a tool to secure the safety of his family would be at risk if the Malfoys caught on ergo, the Dark Lord...

She bit her bottom lip in contemplation. She honestly did not know what to do.

Perhaps Daphne should just give up, explain to her father that such a task was too great and just accept the repercussions whatever they may be.

It seriously felt as though her father was punishing her. For what and why, she still didn't know.

Haven't I suffered enough…?

"-Greengrass."

The voice startled her.

She stood up rapidly, spinning around on her feet. Instantly her wand was in her hand pointing at the assailant and it was then, Daphne's eyes widened almost comically.

"You're crying…" He said.

"Potter…" Daphne whispered, disregarding the way he frowned as he looked down at her.

"Why are you crying?" Harry asked, taking a step in her direction but stopped when she took one back.

"Why are you here…?" Daphne whispered.

Harry cracked a small smirk.

"Me first."

"Ladies first." She corrected automatically,

His smirk turned into a wide smile. "Point."

She blinked, finally noticing wetness on her cheeks as she hastily swiped away at her face.

She had never felt so humiliated in her life.

"Stop…" Daphne paused as she felt a hand larger than her own, close around hers, halting them from finishing their task of removing the evidence of her tears. His hand was still calloused and rough and… she didn't know what else she was expecting. The feel of his limb fit his image to a T. She gazed up at him with wide, blue eyes as Harry stood in front of her as his earlier frown had returned. "You'll ruin your make-up…"

She was at a loss for words and as she continued lightly gaping up at him when Harry looked down and realised what he was doing.

"S-Sorry." He retracted, placing distance between them, taking away the warmth of his hand with him.

"S'Okay…" Daphne whispered, the odd emotions she began associating with Harry Potter returning full blast.

"Are you okay, Greengrass?"

The taller boy's question sobered her up as she realised how she had been acting.

"F-Fine. Fine."

Harry nodded. He gave her an uncertain smile whilst rubbing the back of his neck.

"I didn't mean to startle you… Earlier, I mean."

"You didn't." Daphne replied instantly, cringing internally at how apathetic she sounded.

He once again nodded, the glow from his eyes dimming ever so slightly.

"I-I should go… It was nice seeing you, Greengrass." Harry said softly.

No…

"Y-You've gotten taller…"

Harry stilled. Turned around, he looked curiously at Daphne who had conveniently, turned her head towards the pond.

"And fatter." Daphne added.

He snorted. "Fatter?"

She coughed, masking her embarrassment.

"You know what I mean…"

"Growth spurt."

"It's barely been a month since the school term ended."

Harry hummed. "Keeping tabs on me, Greengrass…?"

Daphne turned back to look at the taller boy and offered him a smirk. For some reason, as she spoke to him, she could feel her confidence returning.

His eyes widened minutely. Harry couldn't deny that the smile made his heart race.

From watching her from afar at school, Daphne never exuded any emotions and so, seeing her show even the slightest expression at something he said, pushed his mind into overdrive.

Harry's mischievous side reared its playful head. He didn't know why but for some bizarre reason, the young Lord wanted to see what else he could get out from the mysterious blonde.

Running a hand through his hair, he began walking towards Daphne whose expression became neutral as he came closer. She watched him with a small tilt of her head as he eventually stood before her.

Daphne raised her head to look up at Harry.

There seemed to be a perpetual tension between the two that had reached its crescendo in such a short time. It was a feeling neither one could put into words but both had been unknowingly feeling it ever since that night almost two years ago.

Harry could hear his pulse beating in his ears the longer he looked at her as his adrenaline slowly kicked in. The sight of Daphne's lidded eyes brought the feeling of something flying around in his stomach.

Must be a dragon… the teen concluded; feeling as though the size of a dragon was comparable to odd feeling festering in his abdomen.

"I'm not the only one who's grown…" Harry began softly, "You were beautiful before but in this green dress… you look practically sinful, Greengrass."

Daphne's eyes widened in disbelief at his forwardness.

The young Lord grinned roguishly, walking past the slightly gaping blonde as he took a seat on the bench.

There was no compelling reason coming forward in Harry's mind at why he had just said that. For him, it just felt the most natural thing to do which confused him greatly.

He was no stranger when it came to complimenting a girl.

Tonks had seen it fit to educate him how to do so in his first year when she would practically kidnap him periodically, to teach him all about the fairer sex.

He was ultimately grateful for it. Though he was still a little introverted due to how he was raised, having Tonks make him play catch up definitely helped him bring his confidence out.

As Tonks set the foundation for his education, then came along Sirius, who flipped Harry's world on girls on its head. It was safe to say that Harry probably knew drastically more about his own Godfather's escapades than he needed to…

It wasn't all bad though. Sirius' help and Tonks' correct ways in communicating with women certainly helped in the department of wooing Hermione despite how the current climate between he and the frustrating bushy-haired girl was.

"You have some nerve…" Daphne eventually bit out. Her pink cheeks contrasting brilliantly to her pale face.

"Adverse to compliments now, Greengrass?"

"On the contrary," She began, pushing a strand of her golden hair behind her ear, surreptitiously observing at how the green-eyed wizard watched the action. "I just didn't expect you to compliment women other than Granger…"

Harry gave her a strained smile that Daphne picked up on and pushed to the back of her mind, "No harm in expressing how I feel, Greengrass."

"It's called being in control, Potter. You should try it sometime."

"And people usually say thank you and offer a compliment back, Greengrass."

Daphne huffed before bashfully looking away, the action promoting a smile to appear on Harry's face as he watched her pale cheeks darken even more.

"T-Thank you, P-Potter. You-You l-look-"

"-You don't have to force yourself, you know-" Harry chuckled, giving the blushing blonde a teasing smile as he turned back to the pond. He really did enjoy making her blush.

"-Handsome!" Daphne blurted out causing Harry to snap his head back at her.

The blonde was looking anywhere but in the young Lord's direction as the man in question sat there gaping at her. He honestly didn't think she'd say something in return and so her response caught him off guard.

Blinking a few times, Harry also joined Daphne in looking anywhere but in her direction.

"T-Thanks…" He mumbled out, watching from the corner of his eye as the Slytherin nodded.

An uncomfortable silence descended upon the two. The artificial wind picked up slightly taking with it the sounds of conversation and light music from the hall.

"P-Perhaps i-it's time for me to go…" Daphne mumbled, casting her eyes around her, noticing that the amount of couples had increased therefore increasing the chance she could be spotted alone with Potter.

"Leaving me already, Greengrass? Can't say I'm not hurt…" His teasing voice spoke behind her.

"It was easier before considering the lack of people, Potter, but if anyone were to see the two of us together, trust me, it wouldn't be good for either of us." Daphne said with an odd voice.

Though she had said it was a straight face, there was a touch of an emotion Harry couldn't place within her words.

"Look around you, Greengrass."

She frowned at him before looking around their vicinity. Though the couples had increased, strangely none were looking at them even though they were well in sight..

"Privacy charm…" She whispered.

He nodded, "Put it up once I saw you. Surprised you didn't notice."

"I was preoccupied…"

"I saw," He chuckled when she narrowed her eyes, "So… does that ease your conscious?"

Daphne had to make a choice now. Does she take the risk of being seen with Potter or does she embrace her Slytherin nature for self-preservation and find a different way to earn his trust?

Harry watched after a moment, as the blonde turned on her feet and began taking measured steps in his direction and his smile grew.

When he had said she looked sinful, he wasn't lying. The dark green gown flowed down her tall figure like a cascading waterfall. Every fold and every seam was carefully made to accentuate her more than generous curves and Merlin was Daphne blessed in that department.

On her feet were black heels adding length to her already impressive height which was emphasised by the long slit running up her toned leg, ending at her mid-thigh. There was no doubt about it, Daphne Greengrass was a vision of beauty only comparable to someone like Fleur Delacour and even then, the younger girl would come out on top.

Fleur was almost unnaturally ethereal much of course was due to her Veela heritage but here was a woman who had no such advantage and that's what made it more unbelievable.

For Harry, there was no doubt that Daphne was the most beautiful woman he had ever lay eyes on.

"Well, scoot up then." Daphne said, her voice high, her cheeks pink. Harry had realised she had noticed him checking her out which made his own embarrassment for getting caught, skyrocket.

The young Lord cleared his throat, foolishly thinking he had managed to hide his blushing cheeks, he slid himself across the bench until he felt his side hitting the end almost immediately. Frowning, he looked down and the sight confused him.

That's strange. I could've sworn this bench was longer than this…

"Uh…"

"Please Potter, take your sweet time."

"That's the thing, there's uh, no more space…"

"I can barely fit in there!" Daphne exclaimed, pointing to the gap between Harry and the end of the bench.

"S'Okay, I-I'll just stand. Here, you take the se-"

Harry was cut off when he felt a warm body push against him and his eyes widened comically.

Daphne decided to take matters in to her own hands, squeezing in between the handle of the bench and him.

I should've been a bloody Gryffindor…! Daphne exclaimed in her mind.

The bench was small which made every curve of the blonde's that much more prominent as he struggled to calm his racing heart and his rising libido.

IMAGINE SNAPE AND UMBRIDGE! SNAPE AND UMBRIDGE!

"This is uncomfortable." Daphne supplied helpfully. The blonde was having her own troubles. With the way she could feel his thigh, his entire arm and not to mention his addicting scent, it was driving her positively insane.

"You think...?" Harry replied with a strained voice. His shoulders were rolled forwards as he had to press his arms together to avoid leaning into the dangerously soft blonde.

Daphne turned to look at the taller boy; her smirk returning in full force when she saw Harry squirming about. Her blush had extended to her neck as a scandalous idea came into her mind that would ease the uncomfortable situation but it would definitely not be good for her heart.

Clearing her throat slightly, she leaned forwards and grasped Harry's hand, slightly enjoying how he stiffened at the contact.

His hand was warm. Daphne could feel every vein, every rough patch of skin and she couldn't help the shiver running down her back at her brazenness. The feeling excited her as she could feel heat building in her abdomen.

The blonde's voice was soft, her breath hot in his ear as her intoxicating scent invaded his senses. "This should help…"

She took his hand from his lap and pulled it around and over their heads. As Harry's arm passed both of their faces, the duo's eyes locked with one another.

Electric blue eyes regarded emerald green with an indiscernible emotion whilst Harry took every single one of Daphne's facial features and burned it into his mind.

Her expression was mischievous, her eyes crinkled as a small smirk which conveyed everything and more, was displayed on her unreal face. This was Daphne Greengrass unguarded and he couldn't help the traitorous feelings from erupting from deep within his chest as he gazed down at her.

Daphne pulled Harry's arm until it was around her shoulders allowing her to burrow into his side. Quickly though, she lost balance and to brace herself, instinctively placing her hand on Harry's thigh which she swiftly removed as her hand was pretty close to his groin.

"S-Sorry." She squeaked; her voice filled with mortification at what she had done.

"S'Okay." The strain in his voiced deepened at the action before he let out a long sigh, settling comfortably into his new position.

"Better?" She asked amusedly after a moment.

"Much."

Daphne hummed.

An easy silence settled around the two as they both gazed across the pond.

"So…"

"So?"

She rolled her eyes. "You're a Lord now."

"Mmm."

"Congratulations."

"Thanks."

Daphne huffed as she pinched his hand which was over her shoulder.

"Merlin woman!" Harry hissed.

"Stop being so stiff then!"

"I can't help it! I-I don't know what to say… Not like we've spoken to one another much in the past…"

"We haven't," Daphne agreed, "But that's why people start speaking to one another. To-To get to know the other…" At least I think so...

"Fine, fine. What do you want to know?"

"How? How are you a Lord?"

Harry looked down at her and saw genuine intrigue shining back at him. It was quite adorable.

"I had become emancipated through the Goblet of Fire back in our Fourth Year," He began, running a hand through his hair, "Long story short, a lot of things happened between then and two weeks ago. It was worth it though, in the end. Accepting the Lordship was probably the most important decision I'd ever likely make."

Daphne hummed as she nodded along, leaning her head on his chest.

"May I?" Noticing the ring on his hand. The same hand that was conveniently wrapped around her.

Harry shrugged, stiffening ever so slightly when he felt her hand take his.

"It's beautiful." Daphne whispered in awe, tracing her finger around the maroon-coloured ring.

"Thanks…" Harry said distractedly. "I-I see you've got a few yourself." He pointed out after removing his eyes from their clasped hands.

"None of them are special like yours. For me, my fingers feel naked if I don't have something on them." The blonde replied, not removing her hand from his.

"You're not going to ask?" Harry asked after a pause.

Daphne looking up at him curiously. "Ask what?"

"Why?"

"Why would I? If you were going to tell me, you would have. Your secrets are your own, Potter."

Harry blinked as he stared intently at Daphne for a moment.

They really are different from one another…

"Harry."

Daphne continued staring up at him, their faces mere inches from the other due to how close they were sitting as she felt him fiddling around with the rings on her fingers unknowingly.

"Mmm?"

"My name."

"I know your name, idiot." She rolled her eyes.

"Call me Harry." He said softly as she blinked owlishly at him.

"Harry," She said just as soft, testing the name on her tongue. "I thought your name was Hadrian?"

Harry scrunched his nose but gaped when he heard her tinkling laugh.

"I didn't know you could laugh, Greengrass."

This time she scrunched her nose at him causing him to smile.

"Never had a reason to before… Harry." She replied in the same odd voice as before until she leaned her head back against his chest and looked out into the pond. He watched her for a second or so longer till he realised she wasn't going to elaborate so he as well, turned to look back at the pond.

The two watched amusedly as two faeries wrestled in the air, the moonlight reflecting off their wings as they used two large leaves as weapons to strike the other. The air was wonderfully still. The only sounds that could be heard was the soft trilling of birds and mutterings of conversations around them.

"Thank you, Greengrass."

The girl in question turned to raise an eyebrow at him perplexedly.

"For not asking."

Daphne stared at Harry for a second or so before she smiled, her pearly white teeth teased him behind her full lips. Her eyes softened as she regarded him and in that single frame, Harry had never seen her look so perfect.

"You never answered my first question, Greengrass."

"You didn't answer mine, Hadrian." She smirked. It was obvious to Harry she was deflecting and he let her.

"What was your question again?"

She grumbled, flicking his thigh in annoyance, "Why did you follow me, Potter?"

Harry titled his head slightly, an amused smile appearing on his face.

"Why were you staring at me?"

Daphne blinked a couple times before she huffed.

"We're not going to get anywhere if you keep answering my questions with questions." She said with a measured voice, hiding her shame at being caught.

"Oh, I agree. It's why you should answer my questions first."

"And why is that?"

"Mine are better."

"For you."

"True." He smiled down at her when Daphne raised a well-manicured eyebrow at him. Deciding to throw the quaffle into her hands, he continued staring at her until she eventually gave in.

"I wasn't the only one…"

"No… you weren't. You, however, just couldn't keep your eyes off me for more than five seconds." He whispered teasingly in her ear, enjoying the way she squirmed.

She slapped him on the knee. "Don't get a big head Potter. You're not all that."

Harry chuckled, his roguish smile appearing on his face.

"You were different," Daphne began after a pause, "Everything about you changed in a blink of an eye. I wanted to know why…" She said before looking up at him. Her electric blue eyes looked intently at his green. "Why you changed so much from that night when we danced…" She whispered.

Harry's eyes widened. "I-I didn't know you remembered… let alone knew it was me…"

"I don't just dance with any random boy, Potter." She mock scowled.

"I-I-I didn't mea-"

"-I know what you meant, silly." Daphne looked back out to the pond, leaning her head back on to his chest as she closed her eyes, "You looked lonely and I-I, I wasn't feeling the best. Marriage of convenience." She shrugged and Harry didn't press. Just as she didn't push him earlier, he wouldn't do the same to her.

"I had to. Change, I mean." Daphne looked up questioningly at him, her head still resting against his chest. Running his fingers through his hair, the teen exhaled, "If I hadn't, it wouldn't have been long before everyone I cared about, is taken from me. I had to change because before they're taken away, I'll take away the ones who wish to do them harm first." Harry finished, his eyes glowing ominously as Daphne suppressed a shiver when she gazed up at him.

"It's a good change."

"Didn't like how I was before, Greengrass?" Harry questioned her suggestively.

"No. Your fashion sense was awful." She replied deadpanned as he laughed.

"I had a good reason." He tried.

"There's no excuse, Potter." Daphne shook her head, her earrings and strands of hair moving along with the motion.

"And now…?" The black-haired teen whispered.

"Now… you're not half bad, Harry."

The tension between the two was thick as stone. Neither relenting as they continued staring at each other.

Hearing clicks of shoes, Harry leaned over to see what the commotion was about when he noticed groups of couples begin to make their way inside.

"We should probably go." Harry said, looking down at his muggle watch and realising it was just before midnight. "Fudge's probably about to do another ten-minute speech to close of the evening. We should probably make it back before people start asking questions…"

"Joy." Daphne mumbled, her face hidden from Harry's view.

Harry watched her stand up, her figure never ceasing to amaze him but that was not what he was focusing on. The warmth of her body disappeared along with her and he couldn't deny that he missed it dearly. He watched her smooth out her gown, turning his head when she brushed over her considerable assets and before long, she was ready.

He lightly coughed to gain her attention as she turned to him with a smile not quite reaching her eyes and raised eyebrow.

"Yes?"

"Aren't you going to help me up then?"

"I'm a delicate maiden, Lord Potter." Daphne said haughtily. "Men usually help me up."

"Well, I'm a Lord. You're obligated to help me." Harry replied equally as haughtily, wiggling his outstretched hand to the smaller girl.

Daphne rolled her eyes at his childishness before a playful idea manifested in her mind.

"Alright then."

She daintily grabbed onto Harry's hand, instantly relishing in its warmth before she yanked him up, giggling when she heard him yelp in shock as she watched him shoot out of his seat but the laughter soon faded into alarm when she realised he was barrelling right towards her and wasn't stopping.

Daphne could only close her eyes tightly and wait for the inevitable pain. That was until she felt a his warm body press into her from the front as strong, long arms wound around her frame holding onto her tightly.

"That's some strength!" Harry exclaimed, unknowingly tightening his hands around her waist. "You okay?"

It was only when he asked that Harry realised their position. He felt his collar tighten around his throat as blood rushed to his ears. Almost immediately floundering about like a fish out of water, he made to move away, hastily offering an apology but was stopped in his place as small, delicate hands clutched tightly onto the back of his robes.

"Greengrass…?"

"Mm…?" Daphne replied, her muffled voice tickling him as she had her face tucked under his chin.

"Y-You okay?"

"Mm."

"I-I don't want to rush you, but we should definitely get a move on-" Harry said softly, his breath gently swaying the strands of her hair.

"-Daphne."

The blonde lifted her head from Harry's neck and leaned slightly back, placing her hand on his chest. "My name is Daphne."

Harry had a look of surprise cross his face as he looked down at the blue-eyed girl.

Before long, a playful smile fell on his lips. "I know your name, idiot-"

"-Say it." Daphne interrupted.

There was that same emotion he couldn't make out, dancing in her eyes again as she looked raptly up at him, gripping the front of his robes firmly.

Harry watched her closely, not entirely sure what he was looking for as he tightened his hold on her, ignoring to the best of his ability, the wonderful feeling of her large breasts straining against his chest. He only prayed she couldn't feel his own appendage rising up for duty…

"Daphne." Harry whispered, his emerald, green eyes glinting in the darkness of the garden. He felt as if all the sound around him had come to a halt whilst he waited with bated breath for her response and Merlin, was it worth every second.

It was perfect.

There was no other word to describe it.

Her electric blue eyes lit up and the smile he received was blinding as if he could feel the emotions radiating out of her. It was the same smile he remembered her having when they danced at the end of the Yule Ball.

Daphne outstretched her hands, snaking the one on his chest slowly up his body until she locked them both behind Harry's head as the green-eyed wizard's heart began beating wildly at what he guessed she was about to do.

She leaned up, the same damn smile playing on her face until she placed a small, lingering kiss on his cheek. It felt as if an eternity had passed until Daphne leaned down, her face mere inches from his as she savoured the gobsmacked expression on his face.

"Goodbye Harry."

Her voice was unbelievably quiet, her own blushing cheeks dismantling any notion that her unbelievable action didn't affect her. She rubbed her thumb against his cheek, wiping away the evidence of her lipstick before she stepped back gently from his arms.

Harry felt his arms drop to his side once the blonde stepped away but just when she turned to leave, Daphne raised her own hand, outstretching it in his direction. Her electric blue eyes sparkled when she raised an eyebrow in his direction.

With still flushed cheeks, Harry somewhat regained his rationality until he smiled at the grinning blonde. Bending over the limb, he pressed his lips over her hand whilst at the same time, admiring her beautifully painted nails.

Straightening up, he responded in the same tone as she did, gazing down at her wondrously.

"Goodbye Daphne."

Offering one more serene smile, the blonde turned around and began gracefully walking towards the doors that led back to the hall.

Her long heels clicked at a steady rhythm as Harry's eyes inadvertently went to her swaying hips, watching hypnotically as her round cheeks bounced from left to right.

Hogwarts robes should be arrested because hiding that has to be criminal…

Harry watched Daphne reach the doors until he saw her turn around and smirk knowingly before she glided out, leaving him behind in the now empty garden.

Releasing a breath, he sat down roughly back on the bench and placed his hands on his head, contemplating exactly what just happened until he sighed.

Standing up with wobbly knees, he pulled out his wand before waving it in his general vicinity to dismantle the privacy charm.

"Finite."

Gazing back at the bench, his eyebrows shot up as he stared back and forth between his wand and the bench, cursing himself for his lack of awareness.

Expansion charms exist for a reason… He thought but after everything that had happened, he was more alarmed that he really couldn't care less for not thinking of it earlier.

Harry let out a loud groan as he threaded his fingers through his hair.

"I'm so unbelievably and unequivocally fucked…"

CwD

"-I'm guessing this leave of absence of yours is going to be longer then, Andromeda?"

"Forgive me, Leanne." Andromeda began apologetically, "With Hadrian and everything going on…"

Leanne Fawley patted Andromeda's hand understandingly.

"Think nothing of it, dear. From what you told me, the boy could use someone like you in his corner. Take as much time off as you need, Andromeda. Morgana, knows how much you've worked over the years and I am honestly surprised you haven't requested for leave much sooner."

"Thank you, Leanne." The younger woman replied gratefully.

"Ah and this handsome man must be him then…" Leanne said approvingly as Harry appeared with a slice of treacle tart in his hand.

"Hey. Sorry for leaving you for so long." He began, kissing Andromeda's cheek in greeting.

"Hadrian." Andromeda greeted warmly, threading her arm in his. "What have I told you about eating that too much."

"Oh, lay off him a little, Andromeda. Let him enjoy his treats." Leanne said with a chuckle as Andromeda huffed. "Yes… now that I look at you, there is no doubt about it, you certainly do look like her. Especially in the cheeks." The older woman finished, looking intently at Harry who looked blankly in return.

"Forgive me ma'am, I don't think we've met." Harry said respectfully.

"Oh, how silly of me. Hadrian, this is Lady Leanne Fawley, wife of the late Lord Rodrick Fawley. She is the Head Medi-Witch at St Mungo's. Leanne may I present, Lord Hadrian Potter, Lord of the Noble and Ancient House of Potter."

"My Lord," The older woman said with a small curtsy, holding out her hand.

"My Lady," Harry dutifully answered, brushing his lips over her knuckles as Leanne nodded satisfactorily.

"We used to be colleagues. Dorea and me."

"You knew grandma?" Harry asked with a smile.

She nodded a wistful smile appearing on her elderly features. "We were batchmates when we were studying Healing. What a gentle soul Dorea was. I miss our weekly talks dearly." Leanne said with a soft voice.

It was a few moments later before Leanne left, leaving Andromeda and Harry alone. Fudge relayed one last speech, closing off the evening and it wasn't long until guests slowly began trickling out towards the exits and into the Floo's.

"Andi, I'd preferably like to leave before Fudge attempts to speak to me." Harry pressed, watching from the corner of his eye as the Minister kept eyeing him as if he was a rare flower looking to being plucked.

"Yes… we should probably leave before that happens." Andromeda chuckled.

Harry offered his arm to the smaller woman who threaded it with hers and the duo began making their way towards the exit before Harry felt his arm yanked hard.

Without thinking of the consequences, his wand was out in a flash, pressing hard against a man's throat as Harry's emerald eyes glowed.

"Rosier…" Harry whispered, struggling to contain his growing anger at the Death Eater scum who had the nerve to grab him.

"Potter." Evan Rosier spat with vitriol as Harry's wand dug into his skin.

"Remove your hand, Rosier or I will remove it myself."

"H-How dare you harm my wife, y-you half-blood fucking cunt! I'll kill you, you bastard… I'LL KILL YOU!" Evan screamed loudly even with Harry's wand pressed hard into his neck. Judging from his breath, it was clear the man was drinking.

Harry's eyes went cold. He noticed around him a small crowd forming of the last remaining guests and could hear them muttering between themselves as they watched the scene unfold.

The teen's patience was running thin.

"Do not play this game Rosier," He whispered dangerously, his wand digging further in to his neck causing the man to cry out in pain, "No matter if we're in public or not, I will not hesitate to rip the flesh from your bones. Now I won't ask you again… Remove. Your. Hand."

"What's going on over here?!" A rough voice yelled over the crowd. "Make way, make way… I said move ya fools! Potter!" Moody said hobbling over, "Lower your wand lad."

Harry reluctantly did, his eyes burning with fury as he gazed at the drunk who still hadn't let go off his arm.

"Unhand him Rosier." Moody growled, roughly pulling Evan by his arm effectively removing it from Harry. "Idiot man! I'll have ya charged for assaulting a minor!"

"Oh, I am sure that is not needed, Auror Moody." Lucius' slimy voice interrupted; a disarming smile plastered on his smarmy face.

Behind him stood Narcissa and Draco with Astoria on the latter's arm. "Potter is no longer a minor after all and besides, a little misunderstanding does not warrant in legal actions being taken. It has been such a wonderful night; we surely cannot end it on such an incident. Potter I am sure, agrees with my sentiments…" Lucius shook his head disappointingly, inwardly smirking at hearing sounds of agreement from the surrounding crowd.

Harry felt Andromeda squeeze his arm in warning and knew he was at an impasse.

"A… simple misunderstanding indeed, Auror Moody." Harry said monotonously as Lucius smirked.

Turning, Harry smiled comfortingly at Andromeda, "Shall we?"

The older witch nodded before placing her hand in his and allowed Harry to lead her out.

As they walked past the Malfoys, Andromeda saw from the corner of her eye, Lucius' son open his mouth with a scowl on his face but just before he could say something, a pale hand gripped the boy's shoulder tightly.

Andromeda stopped in her step as her grey eyes locked onto identical grey eyes as sister and sister stood in front of each other for the first time in decades.

"Cissy…" The elder sister said with a neutral voice as she regarded the blonde with an indifferent expression.

"A-Andi…" Narcissa attempted to emulate her sister but failed to hold her expression of indifference in her presence.

Andromeda stared at Narcissa for a moment longer before she carried on walking, ignoring the feeling of her sister's eyes on her back.

"Oh right!" Harry paused as he turned around, his voice echoing around the large hall as he looked directly at the Malfoy patriarch. "Do say hello to Tom for me, Lucius. The old man seemed to be a bit under the weather the last time we met…" Harry chuckled darkly, enjoying the look of resentment displayed on the blonde's face.

The duo continued walking towards the exit when Harry felt someone staring at him intently. Looking across the hall, his eyes connected with familiar electric blue orbs. Although this wasn't the pair he was familiar with, their resemblance was uncanny.

The man who could only be Daphne's father, leered at him, raising a small glass in his direction before turning his attention to the man Harry had recognised from when he entered the gala. It was the same silver bearded man who had pushed his magic onto him the similar way Dumbledore had done. Harry had already concluded that the man was dangerous and he was definitely one he would look out for in the future but his connection with Daphne's father was unexpected.

So… they know each other huh… interesting.

Squaring his shoulders, Harry led Andromeda out of the venue and towards the fireplace, the double doors opening for them as they walked away.

CwD

Daphne never swore but she couldn't deny that she was fucked.

Her father had warned her and made it expressly clear. Do not fall in love with Harry Potter. Do not fall in love with the one she was to fool but if the feelings that were coursing through her body as she watched him show his dominance over the foolish man who had grabbed him was love, then she was truly and utterly fucked.

Love was a myth.

Falling in love at first sight was even more absurd but today, she honestly couldn't help but doubt the mantra she had lived by for so many years was all a lie.

She didn't know what it was about Harry but she was falling for him and falling quite hard at that.

Daphne Greengrass was falling in love with Harry Potter and she didn't know what to do.

"Well?"

His emotionless voice interrupted her thoughts as Daphne forced herself to remain calm.

"We have become… acquainted, father."

Matthias said nothing to acknowledge what he heard until he turned around away from her.

"You are no longer needed. Go back to the Manor. The family will return later."

Daphne's voice became detached at the news, staring longingly at the double doors where Harry had left as the sound of her father's shoes became fainter and fainter.

"Yes father…"

CwD