Returning to Forks felt like slipping back into a well-worn rhythm for Harry and Hermione. They found everything at Phoenix Sports Equipment running like clockwork, with Billy Black and the rest of the management team keeping things organized in their absence. Production was on schedule, employee morale was high, and Harry's latest product line—a new, enhanced sportswear line—had already drawn interest from a few professional athletes.
Meanwhile, Bella Swan was settling in well. As the new kid at school, she'd drawn a lot of attention, her quiet charm intriguing her classmates. Despite being naturally reserved, Bella seemed to be handling the spotlight with surprising grace. She'd even developed a small circle of friends who were eager to introduce her to Forks' hidden gems, from hiking trails to secret swimming holes.
The Cullens, too, seemed to be undergoing their own transformation. With Harry's "blood pops" easing their bloodthirst, their self-control had reached new heights. This boost in control allowed them to interact more comfortably with the locals. They'd started attending community events, helping out with town initiatives, and even making an appearance at a recent charity fundraiser. Their enhanced control and newfound ease around humans made them even more popular among the townsfolk, who were more than happy to welcome the mysterious Cullen family a little closer.
With the blood pops giving them a semblance of normalcy, even Edward found himself engaging more with classmates at school, though he remained as enigmatic as ever. For Harry, it was heartening to see how his intervention was helping bridge the gap between the supernatural and the human communities in Forks.
Since Blacks returned from England, Bella had quickly become a regular at the Black's mansion, especially eager to learn how to surf from Harry. The exclusivity of the private beach was a huge draw, and she found herself captivated not only by the waves but by the serene beauty of the place. Spending time with Teddy brought out her playful side, and his boundless energy had her constantly laughing. Harry took on the role of her patient instructor, teaching her the ins and outs of surfing. Under his guidance, she started to find her balance, learning to read the waves and feel at home on the board.
Word soon got around at school that Bella had connection to the Blacks, and her classmates became curious—and a bit envious. Many approached her, dropping hints or outright asking her to get them an invitation to the Blacks' exclusive beach. Bella, who was usually shy about such things, skillfully deflected their requests, knowing that Harry valued his privacy and wanted to keep their gatherings low-key.
The only exception to this rule was Jessica Stanley, whose younger brother happened to attend the same preschool as Teddy. Occasionally, Jessica and her family would join Teddy and Blacks during playdates. Jessica marveled at the mansion's beauty and the private beach but respected Blacks' privacy, knowing it was a privilege to be invited.
Teddy, ever the little socialite, was thrilled at the thought of a full-blown celebration. He suggested to Bella that she could have her birthday party at the Black mansion, eager to invite more people over. Hermione, sensing how much it would mean to both Teddy and Bella, wholeheartedly agreed. She helped Bella with the planning, encouraging her to invite her friends from school, including the intriguing Edward Cullen, who is one of Bella's classmates and a Vampire.
Harry, meanwhile, saw this as the perfect chance for a trial run for Teddy's upcoming birthday next month. He wanted Bella to have an unforgettable celebration, and it also allowed him to see how their property could handle a larger gathering, ensuring everything went smoothly for Teddy's grand party.
They transformed a section of the beach into a beautiful party setup, with strings of lights hanging from trees, tables laden with treats, and a space for dancing under the stars. Hermione had arranged for a mix of games that everyone could enjoy. She made sure there was something for everyone—whether it was a beach bonfire, a volleyball net, or cozy seating for quieter conversations.
As the guests arrived, Bella's friends were awestruck by the setup and the breathtaking scenery. Harry and Hermione worked seamlessly, making sure everyone was having a good time. Harry prepared an impressive feast, using his culinary skills to serve up dishes that impressed even the pickiest eaters. And, though he kept the magical touches subtle, there were little surprises—like sparklers that danced on their own or drinks that changed colors when sipped—that enchanted Bella's friends.
By the end of the night, Bella's birthday had turned into a celebration to remember. She was surrounded by friends, laughter, and the warm energy that only the Blacks seemed to radiate. And as Harry watched everyone enjoying the party, he felt confident that Teddy's birthday next month would be a wonderful success, ready to give his son a day just as unforgettable.
By the time Leah had become a true part of the Black family. Despite the limitations of American law, Harry, Hermione, and Leah had created a unique and tightly knit family unit, deeply bound by trust and loyalty. Leah shared the same responsibilities and moments as Hermione—whether it was watching over Teddy, running the family business, or joining Harry and Hermione in their training sessions.
Leah's strength and fierce spirit had drawn Harry to her in a way he hadn't expected. Her wildness and determination matched his own resilience, and she quickly became an indispensable presence in his life. Hermione, ever supportive and understanding, had long embraced Leah as family. The three of them shared a unique harmony, built on mutual respect and love.
Their bond grew naturally, with Leah settling comfortably into the household and sharing the same space. They all found joy in each other's company, supporting each other in every part of life—from family moments with Teddy to the thrill of magical adventures and even the quiet, intimate moments that strengthened their unity.
Harry knew he was fortunate to have found two remarkable women who embraced each other as much as they did him. While the laws prevented him from officially binding them all as a family, Harry was determined to honor and protect this life they'd built together.
In the small town of Forks, word traveled fast, and soon everyone knew that Leah was no longer just a part of the Black household in a caretaking role. Instead, she was known as an integral member of the family, accepted openly by both Harry and Hermione. To those who saw them around town, the unity and strength between the three were unmistakable.
Forks had always prided itself on valuing freedom and independence, and though the arrangement might have raised a few eyebrows initially, the people respected the Blacks' and Leah's choice. The tribe, who held deep respect for Leah as one of their own, found peace in knowing she was with people who cared for her. They appreciated that Harry and Hermione welcomed Leah not as a secret lover but as a family member with open arms.
As the community got used to this unconventional yet harmonious relationship, they took it in stride. The townsfolk quietly respected the Blacks' decision, admiring their loyalty to one another and the warmth they brought to those around them.
Life had settled into a comfortable rhythm for Harry. He was the envy of many in Forks, not just for his success and charm, but for the unique family he had built with Hermione and Leah. The locals admired the bond he shared with both women, who had found their places by his side, each with her own role but united as a family.
One rainy morning, Harry decided it was time to restock the Cullens' cherished blood pops. He knew these treats had made a world of difference for them, helping them control their thirst and allowing them to blend in more seamlessly with the town. Always one for an adventure, Harry chose to drive to Seattle himself rather than ordering a delivery, using the excuse to get away and enjoy the open road for a few hours.
As he navigated through the misty, rain-soaked streets, Seattle buzzed with its usual energy. People bustled on the sidewalks under umbrellas, and cars filled the busy streets. The weather was classic Seattle—dull grey clouds casting a cool, damp atmosphere over the city, making it feel like an extension of Forks, only livelier. Harry found a sense of calm amidst the noise and wetness, appreciating the contrast it offered to his quieter life back home.
Reaching his supplier's discreet magical shop tucked into an unassuming corner of the city, Harry stepped inside, greeted by the warm, earthy scents of various herbs and magical concoctions. The vendor, recognizing him instantly, nodded with a knowing smile, fetching the requested blood pops from a hidden shelf. Harry made his purchase swiftly, exchanging a few words and laughs with the shop owner before making his way back.
After picking up the blood pops, Harry felt a sense of freedom in the bustling city and decided to make the most of his time alone in Seattle. He wandered into a local bar he'd never visited before, relishing the anonymity it offered him. Sipping a drink, he observed the casual atmosphere, enjoying the hum of conversations and clinking glasses. Before leaving, he grabbed a few bottles of liquor to bring back, imagining an impromptu celebration with Hermione and Leah or maybe a quiet evening by the fireplace.
Next, he made his way to a nearby supermarket. Strolling through the aisles, he picked up various items he thought might be useful back at the mansion, from unique spices for Hermione's cooking experiments to a few snacks Teddy would love. As he gathered his haul, Harry found himself enjoying this rare moment of solitude—a break from his responsibilities and his busy household.
The sun was beginning to set by the time he finished his errands. Feeling energized and ready to return to Forks, he hopped into his car and headed back. The evening light cast a warm glow across Seattle's cityscape, but once he hit the open road, dusk descended quickly. Harry pressed the gas a little harder, exhilarated by the speed and the winding forested roads ahead. The quiet hum of the engine, the thrill of the drive, and the solitude all combined to give him a rare moment of peace. He let the road carry him back home, where his family awaited, and the familiar embrace of Forks beckoned.
Harry was driving along the lonely, rain-soaked road back to Forks, the headlights slicing through the dense shadows of the forest flanking both sides. The quiet calm of the long, empty stretch was oddly peaceful. He enjoyed these rare moments of solitude, free to let his thoughts wander without interruption. The rhythmic hum of the engine, the gentle beat of the rain on the windshield, and the dim light of twilight settling over the horizon all made the drive feel almost serene.
But suddenly, something disrupted the calm. Out of nowhere, a shadowy figure appeared right in front of his car, standing stock-still in the middle of the road. Harry's reflexes kicked in, and without thinking, he yanked the steering wheel to avoid hitting what looked like a person. His car veered off course, tires skidding across the wet pavement as he lost control. The wheels screeched, and Harry felt the car tip as it skidded sideways.
The world spun around him in a whirlwind of metal and broken glass as the car flipped and tumbled, each roll rattling him further. The air was filled with the terrifying sound of crunching metal and shattering glass. After what felt like an eternity, the car finally came to a halt, landing upside down with a heavy, final thud.
Inside the wreck, everything was still. Harry was dazed, disoriented, and hurt. His body was strapped to the seat, hanging upside down, the seatbelt cutting painfully into his shoulder. Blood dripped from a cut on his forehead, stinging his eyes and blurring his vision. Every inch of him ached, but he forced himself to stay conscious, to assess his injuries and try to get out.
Breathing heavily, he fumbled for the seatbelt release, his fingers shaking as he pressed the button. The belt gave way, and he fell to the roof of the car with a painful jolt. Gritting his teeth, he crawled toward what was left of the window, carefully pushing broken glass aside as he made his way out of the mangled vehicle.
As Harry steadied himself, he felt his Lycian senses flaring to life, sharpening his awareness of the figures gathering at the end of the road. His eyes locked onto them, catching their predatory movements in the shadows. Seven vampires, each of them radiating a dark, eerie hunger, advanced slowly, their eyes fixed on him as they closed in like a pack of wolves circling their prey.
But Harry was no ordinary traveler. He let his own power stir, feeling the surge of raw magic and his Lycan strength simmer just beneath the surface. To them, he must have appeared vulnerable—a lone figure, bloodied and battered from the crash. But the smirk forming on his lips told a different story.
One of the vampires, slightly ahead of the others, took a step forward, baring fangs gleaming under the faint moonlight. The creature's smile was cold and cruel, a predator savoring the thrill of the hunt. Harry met its gaze unflinchingly.
"Looks like you took a wrong turn," the vampire sneered, eyes narrowing as it studied Harry.
Harry chuckled, his voice calm, almost amused. "Funny, I was about to say the same to you."
Author's Note:
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