Author note- So sorry this took so long to post. I've had a lot of personal things going on. Going on a trip next week, and will hopeful have lots of time to write. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
Song inspiration- The High Road- Three days Grace
Chapter 19
The Right Way up
Severus made furtive glances at Harry while he picked at his plate of breakfast. They'd all been alarmed when they'd woken up and found Harry missing from the house. A quick tracking spell had found him, and he and Remus had stayed disillusioned while they followed Harry in town. The boy seemed to remember Cokeworth and had moved around town with a sense of familiarity. He now looked like himself again as well.
While Severus did find that encouraging, his silence was suffocating.
Remus had walked into the park and Severus had gone back to the house to start breakfast.
Sirius had been anxious when Severus returned, but calmed when Severus let him know that they'd found Harry.
Now though, they were all seated at the table eating in silence.
Harry hadn't even touched his food. His face was tipped down and his long hair hid most of it. Remus hadn't said anything when they'd returned, but Severus could see the concern etched deeply on his face.
Abruptly, Harry stood, took his plate to the trash, and dumped his food before washing his plate.
Severus sighed and set down his fork. Harry brushed past the table and down the hall. The soft sound of feet on the stairs could be heard.
Remus brought both hands to his face and took several long breaths before looking across the table at Severus.
"He's not doing well." Remus said.
Harry listened quietly, perched on the top step. The silence in the kitchen had been killing him. If they weren't going to talk to him, or each other he wasn't going to keep sitting there.
He'd been about to lock himself in his room when he heard Remus voice. He knew he shouldn't be listening in, but he thought it might be easier than having a conversation with any of them. Remus had given him a calming draught, but it felt more like a blanket over his raging emotions than having actually calmed them.
"Would you care to explain further. It's rather obvious he isn't doing well." Snape drawled.
Harry swallowed. He didn't know what to say to them. He didn't want to upset them, he just felt overwhelmed. He wished he could go somewhere else, but he knew that would only worry them more.
"He seems to remember everything. It was obvious that he'd been crying when I went to talk to him in the park. He started scratching up his arm. He seems embarrassed." Remus said with a sigh.
Harry's cheeks heated more.
"Obviously. You would be too." Snape snarled.
Harry felt his heart sink. Shame swam in his empty stomach. Snape saw this as something he should feel embarrassed about.
Harry waited for someone to say something. Anything. He didn't know what he was waiting to hear but nothing was said. When the silence finally broke, Harry was not prepared for what he heard.
"I'm hoping Harry will at least be relieved that Merrick is dead." Sirius said softly.
Rick was dead? How? When? Was he responsible? He didn't want to be responsible for another death. What if it was one of them? Were they going to be sent away to Azkaban?
Harry's stomach lurched and his hand flew to his mouth as he jumped up.
Severus looked up at the ceiling as feet thundered down the hall and the bathroom door was slammed.
"He heard you." Severus whispered before sighing deeply.
Remus looked worriedly toward the door.
Severus waved his wand and set privacy wards, ones that should have been set when Harry left the kitchen.
"Leave him be. He's safe but I imagine he needs some space." Severus said softly.
Remus nodded but didn't look reassured.
"What do we do from here?" Sirius asked.
They hadn't discussed a plan to help Harry once he was back to himself.
"If Harry will allow it, I believe sorting out the last of his memories would be a good place to start. Harry has been resistant to Occlumency lessons, but I'm hoping he will allow them for a short while. I'd like to show him how to sort his mind and control his emotions better." Severus said in thought.
Harry had used his forest to some effect, but emotionally he relied too heavily on his heaviest occlumency barrier and that was now gone.
Remus nodded.
"I'd like to do an assessment to gauge where he's at emotionally. He was obviously having a hard time at school and then it has been one thing after the next. Weeks of him not talking to us and then all of this with Merrick. Depending on his answers we can build a plan." Remus said.
Severus bit his tongue to keep himself from asking if Remus was up to helping Harry. Over the week it had become obvious that Remus was struggling as well. Additionally, Remus had suggested on Halloween that perhaps he wasn't the right person to help Harry.
"Do we stay here? Head back to the school? Go home?" Sirius asked.
Severus once again felt out of sorts. He had opinions on the matter and despite his relationship with Harry, he was not the boy's parent. Ultimately anything that had to do with Harry was up to Sirius and Remus.
Remus folded his hands on the table and stared at them intently.
"I'd like to give Harry a say in that matter, if that's alright with you." Remus said looking Severus in the eye.
"Of course." Severus said with a nod. He wanted to see Harry doing better.
"If I may?" Severus said, with hesitation. He had appreciated getting on with the two this week and didn't want to overstep now.
Remus nodded.
"I believe not acknowledging this last week would be for the best. I'm sure Harry is embarrassed, though he has no reason to be. None of this has been his fault. However, Harry finds himself at fault for a lot that isn't his to shoulder. If he brings it up, allow him to talk out his feelings, but I think we should all agree that we make our best efforts to let Harry guide how things move forward." Severus started.
When they nodded Severus continued.
"Minerva once told me Harry does best when things aren't kept from him. I think we should be as frank as we can about what is expected now. You need to do an assessment, and Occlumency lessons should be prioritized." Severus said.
Remus brows furrowed but he nodded.
"As far as moving forward I think it might be best for Harry to still stay with me. If you or he disagree then we can work out the alternative." Severus said.
"I think you're right. I know it's a lot to ask. You have a whole house to keep track of." Remus said rubbing his face.
Severus sighed in slight relief. He didn't want to demand Harry, but he thought that Sirius and Remus had some things to work out before they would be what Harry needed.
"Your boy wonder has worked miracles on the school. While I am still head of house, I have found the job significantly less demanding this year. The interhouse conflicts are at the lowest I've ever seen, including my own time as a student." Severus said, giving Sirius a significant look.
Sirius looked abashed but nodded.
"Additionally, my most problematic students have always been those in Harry's year. Specifically, the Gryffindor's and Slytherin's. Now that they are seemingly friendly, I've found myself with significantly less detentions." Severus drawled.
"Perhaps Harry should consider a career in contract negotiations at Gringotts or international magical relations." Severus said wryly.
Remus smirked slightly.
"Yes, he does seem to have a way with people." Remus responded.
"Very well, If you're sure you can manage school responsibilities and Harry, we will give it a try. Sirius and I have talked and would like to have him for a few evenings a week. We were making strides towards a better relationship at the cottage." Remus said sadly.
Severus knew that all of them had seen improvements with Harry over the summer. This year, as Remus had pointed out, had been one thing after the next. Several incidents had certainly strained the relationships they had built with Harry.
Severus saw Sirius take Remus hand and give it a gentle squeeze.
"He's your son. Of course you want to build that relationship." Severus murmured softly.
They sat quietly for a while before Severus stood from the table.
He collected a glass of water, crackers, and a stomach soother for Harry.
"I'm going to see if I can get him to eat. Perhaps you two should take a walk. When you're back, we can all sit down and discuss things with Harry." Severus suggested.
"I think that's a good idea." Sirius said softly, looking to Remus.
Severus wished he knew what had happened. Harry had asked about Remus, and Sirius had seemed nearly as worried about Remus as he had been about Harry this week. It wasn't his place, and he wouldn't pry. He just hoped things would begin to improve.
Harry was sitting on the floor next his bed when there was a knock on the door. With a sigh he waved his hand and opened it. He was both surprised and not at all to see Snape standing there. He was thankful it was Snape. His feelings about Remus were still shaky and he felt ashamed of it.
Snape didn't wait for an invitation before walking in and handing him water and crackers. Harry set them on the floor. He couldn't stomach anything right now. Severus dangled a potion in front of his face and Harry rolled his eyes a little before taking it as well.
Sitting gracefully in the desk chair, Snape crossed his legs and folded his hands before looking at Harry. His face was neutral but there was expectation in his eyes.
Sighing, Harry popped the lid off the potion and swallowed the stomach soother. He hated this potion dance, but it did seem to be helping him. He supposed he shouldn't complain. He eyed the crackers dubiously before plucking one up and taking a bite.
He met Snapes eye and raised an eyebrow.
"What now?" Harry whispered.
Snape cleared his throat and Harry waited for whatever would come next.
"Your parents have gone for a short walk. When they return, we are all going to sit down and discuss what happens next." Snape said calmly.
Harry's face heated and he looked away.
"You can't just tell me? I went completely mental this week. I imagine I'm not going to have much of a say in what's coming." Harry responded bitterly.
Snape sighed.
"What happened this week was a response to stress, and you do not need to dwell on it. As for what happens next, there are going to be a few things asked of you. However, we all would like to do what is going to help you the most. In that you will have a say." Snape answered.
Harry bit his lip. Snape always talked with such confidence, and Harry wished he had that. Nodding he popped another cracker in his mouth.
He mulled things over in his mind. It was Sunday. He'd missed most of a week of school. The thought soured his stomach. He'd already missed too much this year with his personal stuff. How was he supposed to learn what he needed to win the war if things like this kept happening.
A jarring thought hit him then. Sirius birthday had been last Sunday, and he'd completely missed it. That morning had been when Remus had hurt himself. Sirius had spent the early hours of his birthday helping him and Remus.
"Dammit." Harry muttered, running his hands into his hair and pulling.
He wished his life didn't have to mess with everyone else's.
"What's wrong?" Snape asked.
Harry lowered his hands and slumped more against the bed.
"I forgot Siri's birthday." Harry murmured sadly.
Snape raised an eyebrow at him.
"He hasn't mentioned it. You've been rather busy, I'm sure he doesn't see it as a slight." Snape tried to reassure.
Harry hated himself when he unexpectedly felt tears prick the back of his eyes. He didn't know why this was making him so emotional.
"We've never spent his birthday together. I was going to make him a pie." Harry whispered out, like that made any kind of sense.
Snape studied him for a long moment before nodding.
"I'm sure he would appreciate the thought. You're welcome to bake your treat if you'd like." Snape said.
Harry flashed him a half smile before nodding. He would bake the pie. Sirius favorite was berry.
"Sorry for setting the fire in the kitchen." Harry said softly.
He'd noticed that it had only partially been repaired. He didn't know if he should fix it or offer to replace it. He just felt bad.
"It's of no concern." Snape brushed off easily.
Harry considered the man for a long moment, thinking about how far they had come. Last year Snape would have ripped him to shreds for having set a fire like that. Let alone in his own space.
"Thank you." Harry said softly.
Snape just gave him a curious look.
"For everything. I was just thinking how you would have reacted if I'd set something in your class on fire last year." Harry said with a cold laugh.
Severus grimaced. He knew he'd been unreasonably unkind to Harry in the past. He didn't want to be thank for acting like a decent human now. It felt…He wasn't sure. Harry was forgiving even for the unforgivable. He had no doubt, after what he had seen of Harry's reactions this week, that he would forgive the Dursley's if they'd changed at all. Even if it had been briefly.
That thought brought understanding to Severus. The twisting in his gut was acknowledgment of how he'd treated Harry. He had abused Harry, and Harry was thanking him for not doing it anymore.
Swallowing thickly, Severus tried to think of something to say but the words wouldn't come to him.
Harry sighed when they heard the door downstairs close.
"I suppose we should go down and talk to them." Harry said warily, pulling himself to his feet.
Severus stood quietly and followed Harry downstairs. His mind felt muddled by his thoughts. He knew he'd been unkind to Harry. Knew that their dynamic had changed and things had improved, but he'd never really thought about it in the context he just had.
He thought about his other students. He'd been harsh but there had been only a few he had been cruel too. None as consistently as Harry though. He would need to think on it more later.
Pushing the ugly thoughts from his mind he tried to focus on the here and now. Focus on helping Harry.
Harry bounced his knee as he waited for Remus to come back to the sitting room. The four of them had discussed things and it had been decided that they would go back to the school tonight. Everyone had looked a little hesitant, but Harry was beginning to feel anxious about his friends and wanted to check in.
He'd been informed officially that Merrick Fletcher was in fact dead. A curse from Snape had killed him. Harry hadn't been able to say anything but had nodded to Snape in appreciation. It felt strange to be thankful that someone was dead. However, Harry was thankful. Rick had been one of the worst things to ever happen to his life. Knowing that he was gone and would never hurt him again was relieving.
Remus was going to do an assessment before they went back. Harry would also be returning to occlumency lessons with Snape. He wasn't looking forward to either, but he'd rather get them out of the way.
Sirius and Snape were getting everything packed back up and giving him and Remus a little space.
Remus walked into the room and Harry smiled slightly at the two cups of Hot Chocolate that landed on the table.
He thought he'd had more Hot chocolate this week then he'd ever had in his life. He wondered if he'd grown up with Remus, if he would have been spoiled like Dudley.
Remus took a seat in Snapes armchair and set a notebook in his lap.
"I have a list of questions to ask. Feel free to answer with short or long answers. They need to be honest answers though." Remus said in a neutral tone.
Harry swallowed and nodded.
Remus was putting on his more professional tone. Harry was thankful for it.
Remus face creased as he looked at his pad and then cleared his throat.
"Could you rate your physical pain for me?" Remus asked.
Harry frowned. He realized he didn't pay much attention to how his body felt most of the time. He let his mind work down his body and realized that he actually was in some pain. Not enough that he couldn't ignore it, but it was still there.
Harry shrugged.
"I don't know. Some I guess." Harry said, unsure how to better explain.
Remus nodded.
"Can you tell me where you are feeling pain?" Remus asked.
Harry's cheeks heated a little. He didn't really want to answer that question.
"Erm…My arm a little where I scratched it. And…um…a few places where I had recent injuries." Harry answered softly.
He didn't like to admit that he'd hurt himself. He also didn't want to talk about where those recent injuries had come from.
Remus' expression didn't change. He only wrote something down and then looked back at Harry.
"How would you describe your emotional state right now?" Remus asked.
Harry sighed, causing some of his hair to flutter into his face a little. How was he supposed to answer that.
"Fine…I guess." Harry answered. He was anxious. Today felt overwhelming, but at this point he was just exhausted and wanted this to all be over.
Remus' lips pinched tightly, and Harry deflated at having apparently answered the question wrong.
"Do you currently have any thoughts about causing yourself harm?" Remus asked neutrally.
Harry sighed again. The thought never felt like it completely went away.
Harry gave Remus a half shrug and shook his head.
Remus looked at him critically before writing on his notebook again.
"Do you currently have any thoughts of causing anyone else harm?" Remus asked.
Harry frowned. He'd never been asked that question before. He never wanted to cause harm. He hated that he had ever caused anyone pain. His stomach clenched. He was preparing for war; he was going to have to hurt people.
"Harry?" Remus asked softly.
Harry's eyes darted to Remus before he shook his head.
"No." Harry said hoarsely.
Remus looked concerned but nodded.
Harry fidgeted with his sleeve and then dropped his hands into his lap. He'd tried to be more mindful of that action after Snape had mentioned it being a tip off for self-harming thoughts.
Remus looked a little uncomfortable.
"Harry, These next few questions are going to be a little more specific. I don't need the answers to be more elaborate, but I might have additional questions depending on the answers." Remus said stiffly.
Harry nodded and hoped this would end soon.
"The current plan is for us to return to Hogwarts tonight. How are you feeling about that?" Remus asked.
"Like it's what I need to do. I…I suppose I wished I didn't need to go back but I've already missed so much school. I need to check in with Draco, Ron and Hermione." Harry said.
Remus expression softened a little.
"You can take more time Harry. You've been through a lot. If you want to stay here longer you can." Remus responded.
Harry shook his head. If he kept putting it off it would just be harder to go back, and his anxiety about what might be happening at school was already pretty high.
"Okay. Just keep it in mind." Remus said.
Harry nodded and went back to looking at his hands.
"How are you feeling about staying with Severus in his quarter's when we return?" Remus asked.
Harry sighed again. He didn't know. He supposed of the options, it was his preference. He knew Snape was going to be doing more occlumency and he'd rather not go back to the dorm with a splitting headache. His friends were going to have a lot of questions, and he wasn't sure how he was going to answer them.
On the other hand, he could stay with Sirius and Remus. He didn't think that would be good for Remus, and by extension Sirius.
"I'm fine with it." Harry answered.
"Can I ask how you are feeling about Sirius and I?" Remus asked quietly.
Harry bit his lip. He was still feeling embarrassed about what had been happening this week. He glanced up at Remus. The memory of Rick's attack flashed in his mind before he looked away.
Not Remus. He tried to remind himself.
Harry rolled his neck. Remus and Sirius took good care of him this week. He shouldn't be upset by that.
"I'm not sure. I'm…I'm thankful to you all for taking care of me this week…but I'm embarrassed. I know I should have been able to hold it together better and I'm sorry." Harry said biting harshly at his lip.
Remus cleared his throat.
"Harry, you don't need to feel embarrassed by any of this. You weren't in control of what happened." Remus said leaning forward.
Harry twisted his hands in his lap but refused to look up at Remus.
"How are you feeling about what happened before this? Your run-in's with Merrick Fletcher?" Remus asked.
Swallowing thickly, Harry shrugged.
"I'll get through it. I have before." Harry all but whispered.
Harry could hear Remus sighing and sitting back in his chair.
"You don't have to handle this on your own." Remus said softly.
Harry felt anger begin to well in his chest. His jaw clenched and Harry tried to hold it in, but the words bubbled out before he could stop them.
"What do you want me to say Remus!? Some pervert started stalking me when I was six years old! My fucked up family didn't care! No one has ever cared! I know it was wrong! I know what he did to me! I'm going to have to live with that! I'll never be normal Remus! DO YOU GET THAT!?" Harry yelled
"I envy what you and Sirius have! What Ron and Hermione have! My classmates can date and flirt, and that's just normal for them! I'm never going to have that. The thought of ever being like that with someone makes me want to vomit! I literally want to tear my skin off, just to get away from the feeling of him touching me! What do you want me to say!?" Harry screamed at Remus.
Remus stared up at Harry, who was now standing in front of the couch, and took a deep breath. Harry's anger was valid, and Remus wasn't surprised by it. Still, it hurt to see Harry hurting so much.
"Don't bring this up to me again. He's dead. I have to move on." Harry said clenching his jaw before he turned and walked out of the sitting room.
Remus sighed looking back down at his notebook. He believed Harry was stable enough for them to leave but he would let Severus know that his behavior might be erratic for a while. Harry had faced so much trauma.
"Remy?" Sirius called from the door.
Remus swallowed and looked up. Sirius was leaning against the door frame with his arms crossed.
"You okay?" Sirius asked.
Remus nodded. He wasn't but there wasn't anything to do either.
"Were you fighting with Harry?" Sirius asked.
"No. He's hurting, and I pushed too much." Remus croaked out.
Sirius nodded before walking into the sitting room.
"Snape said he'll floo with Harry back to the school when he's ready to leave. Are you ready?" Sirius asked.
Remus sighed and stood. He wished that his conversation with Harry had gone better.
"Yeah." Remus mumbled.
He felt drained and hoped that they were all making the right decision here.
Without further conversation they floo'd back to Hogwarts.
Severus stood waiting in the kitchen for Sirius and Remus to leave. He and Sirius were in the kitchen when Harry had run up the stairs. He wanted to give Harry a little space. Wiping the last of the water from the clean cup in his hand, he placed it back in the cupboard.
The house was back to how it had been when he'd left this summer. He was anxious to get back to Hogwarts and check on his students but he didn't want to rush Harry. The boy seemed to be determined to return to classes tomorrow but if he wasn't ready Severus wasn't going to push him.
Walking out of the kitchen, Severus made his way up to Harry's room. To his surprise the door was open, and the boy was sitting on his bed. Edgar was asleep in Harry's lap, and he was petting him gently.
"Is it time?" Harry whispered before he glanced up.
Severus was saddened to see how blotchy Harry's face was. Clearly, he'd been crying.
"Yes." Severus said.
Harry nodded and stood, allowing Edgar to climb up his chest and lay across his shoulders. The cat was getting rather large and with its fluffy fur it looked like Harry was wearing a fur collar. The thought brought a smirk to the corner of Severus mouth.
"What?" Harry asked.
"You're cat makes quite the accessory." Severus said, smiling softly.
Harry smiled a little too and pet Edgar's head.
Severus rolled his shoulders and hoped that things could be quiet for a while.
Hermione tapped her foot as she waited for Ron to catch up with her. She was losing her patience with the lack of answers they had been getting. It had all started with the article in the prophet. Everyone had been in an uproar about Harry's personal life being spread out for everyone again. The article had been disgusting, and Hermione had done her best to shut down any discussion about it.
Ron and the rest of the sixth-year boy's had nearly come to blows with the seventh years that had started all of it.
When Harry hadn't shown up for the feast it wasn't a surprise. He'd said he probably wouldn't. He'd looked embarrassed by all the whispers and glances. They'd talked in Charms and told him that the article didn't change anything for them. Hermione made sure not to insinuate that she believed it. She had her suspicions about Harry's sexuality and the possibility of a relationship with Malfoy. However, she would let Harry tell them in his own time if any of it was true.
Harry had thanked them and asked that they talk about anything else.
When Dumbledore had told them all to stay in the Great Hall, Hermione had immediately been on alert. Snape had taken Sirius and Remus with him. Harry had the worst luck, she knew it had to be something he'd been involved in. She had spent all weekend worrying about him when they didn't hear anything.
She'd been relieved when he'd shown up to classes on Monday, but it was obvious that Harry was struggling. He was quiet and withdrawn. Which made sense when he explained that he'd been attacked. He hadn't given them any more details, which had worried Hermione. Usually when it came to things at school, Harry told them everything.
Then he hadn't shown up at the DA meeting, and never sent a word that he wouldn't be coming. Then just like that he'd disappeared and so had Snape. Sirius had told them that Harry was training with Snape and that they might be joining them. Hermione could tell that he was lying though.
They'd been gone all week and despite asking other teachers and even Draco they'd never gotten any other explanation. They'd sent notes with no reply. There hadn't been any new attacks printed in the prophet. There just was nothing, and no Harry.
She was going to ask to speak with Dumbledore today if nothing had changed. She didn't like the not knowing and it was starting to shake the foundation Harry had built with the other houses. They were talking about leaving the DA. The Slytherin's hadn't even shown up on Friday.
"Sorry." Ron said, walking up next to her and taking her hand.
Hermione huffed and dragged Ron into the Great Hall. Her feet froze as she stepped past the threshold. Sirius, Remus, and Snape were all back at the head table. Hermione's eyes darted to the Gryffindor table and began scanning until they stopped on a familiar head of black hair, halfway up the table.
"He's back." Hermione said softly, dropping Ron's hand and nearly running to Harry.
"Harry!" Hermione said, coming to a stop next to Harry.
Harry looked over his shoulder at them and Hermione could tell something was wrong. He wasn't upset but he wasn't happy to see them either.
"Where have you been?" Hermione said sitting down and looking at Harry expectantly.
Herry bit his lip and sighed before looking away. Hermione noticed there was food on Harry's plate but it didn't look like he'd touched it at all.
Harry shrugged and Hermione felt like yelling at him. He couldn't just keep disappearing on them.
"Come with us." Hermione instructed, standing back up and waiting expectantly.
Harry sighed and followed them back through the Great Hall. Hermione traipsed up the stairs until they reached the seventh floor. Hesitating for a moment, she led them to the Room of Requirements. She'd originally been heading back to the tower, but not enough people had left for breakfast yet.
She glanced over her shoulder at Harry. He looked wrung out.
Hermione quickly paced in front of the wall and pulled the door open when it appeared. Stepping in, she was pleased with the room that had been created. It was similar to the Gryffindor common room. Overstuffed armchairs sat near a warm fire, with a low table in front of the chairs.
Ron walked past her and flopped into a chair. He was just as worried as she was, but his worry was turning into frustration. Hermione hoped Ron would keep his temper. Harry didn't look like he could handle an argument, and she wasn't in the mood to middle another one of their spats.
Hermione took the middle seat and waited for Harry. He seemed hesitant but eventually sat.
An awkward silence hung between them and Hermione considered what to say.
"So, where have you been, mate?" Ron asked, his tone casual but slightly accusatory.
Hermione shot him a look but let it drop in favor of keeping an eye on Harry.
Harry just sighed.
"With Snape." Harry finally said.
Hermione nodded.
"Yeah, that's what Sirius told us. Then he and Remus disappeared too." Hermione said.
Harry brought his hands up to his face and sighed deeply.
"I don't know what you want me to say." Harry mumbled.
Hermione's jaw clenched at the defeated tone.
"We'd like to know the truth." Ron growled.
"What Ron means is the story that we were told didn't really make sense. Why would Snape take you away from the school to train? Everyone is kind of freaking out that you've been gone. The rumors about your attack and then you disappearing have upset everyone. The DA is falling apart. People think you ran away because there was going to be an attack on the school." Hermione tried to explain.
Harry looked up at her with guilt in his eyes, then looked over to Ron.
Hermione watched as Harry clenched his hands and then rubbed them over the top of his pants.
"It's just…It's just personal." Harry whispered.
Hermione frowned. She'd been worried that maybe Harry had done something dangerous, or that he'd been hurt.
Ron sighed and sat forward and clasped his hands before looking up at Harry. The frustration that had been on his face was gone.
"Listen mate, we know that we didn't know a lot of what was going on in your life outside of school before this summer, but we've always been here for the shite that happens here. I know it's been a weird year, and the war has everyone a little messed up, but you're still our best mate. I feel like we've hardly seen you this year. Please talk to us." Ron said.
Hermione was proud of Ron for being calm and compassionate. He had matured a lot over the last year, and she was thankful for that.
Glancing back at Harry, Hermione noticed that Harry's hands were clenched, and that he was biting his lip. He looked overwhelmed.
"Quinn and I were attacked last Monday." Harry finally said.
Hermione nodded, that made sense.
"We heard Quinn was in the hospital wing. No one knew what happened." Hermione said.
"Death Eaters?" Ron asked worriedly.
Harry shook his head.
"No." Harry whispered hoarsely.
Hermione raised her eyebrow in surprise and curiosity.
"He um…. He's dead, but um…before he died he cast something on me." Harry said. His speech was broken like he was really struggling to get his words out.
Hermione sent a worried glance at Ron, and he nodded back. He could see it too.
"What did he cast?" Hermione asked.
Harry sighed and shook his head.
"I don't know. It messed with my mind though." Harry admitted quietly. Hermione could see a blush climbing up Harry's cheeks.
"I…I couldn't stay here. Um… Sirius and Remus decided I needed some time, so Snape took me back to his house." Harry said.
Hermione still didn't quite understand the new relationship with Snape, but she was thankful that they were no longer at each other's throats all the time. Last year was horrible.
"I…um I think I was worse than they thought, so Sirius and Remus joined us the next day." Harry finished with a shrug.
Hermione nodded her understanding. Though it was vague. She wondered what the spell had been. Something powerful, if it had affected Harry so much for so long.
"Are you better now?" Ron asked.
Hermione glared over her shoulder at Ron. Harry was clearly not well.
Harry just shrugged.
"I guess." Harry said softly.
Hermione considered for a minute.
"Is there anything we can do to help?" Hermione asked.
Harry bit his lip and shrugged.
"I…I'm sorry I haven't been around much this year. I've been worried about everything. I know that the war is getting worse, and I've just been trying to train as much as I can. It probably won't be enough but It's what I can do, you know?" Harry said, looking up at them both.
Hermione nodded. She'd always been deep in her books, but she'd changed her focus to what they might actually need, not just what she found interesting. Harry's interest in reading and research seemed so out of character. She wondered if that was something he'd started doing this summer, locked up with Professor Snape.
"I get it. I think we are all feeling that pressure." Hermione admitted.
Ron nodded his agreement.
"I kind of…um I don't know, burnt out? That's why I was staying with Sirius and Remus. It all just kind of… got to be too much. They thought I needed more support." Harry admitted quietly. Hermione could see the blush on Harry's face getting darker and whished this wasn't so hard for him to talk about.
"Your depressed." Hermione said softly. She had suspected since they'd come back to school, but this seemed like confirmation.
Harry twisted his hands in his lap before giving a short nod.
"It's not as stigmatized here as it is in the muggle world. It's not perfect but they don't make as big a deal about mental health in a bad way." Hermione said calmly. She hoped Harry would find some comfort in that.
Harry shrugged.
She understood. They'd both grown up in the muggle world and returned every year. It was difficult to see things through a Wixen lens.
"Is Remus helping you?" Ron asked.
Harry blew out a deep breath before shaking his head.
Hermione found this surprising.
"He was trying, but we just have our own stuff going on." Harry said softly.
Hermione wasn't sure what that meant but she nodded.
"I'm…Er…I'm staying in Snapes quarters for the time being." Harry admitted before he glanced through his hair at them.
Hermione nodded.
"Is he helping you?" Hermione asked quietly.
Harry nodded, but Hermione could see how stiffly he was holding himself.
Glancing over at Ron, she pleaded with her eyes for him not to say something insensitive. Ron looked confused but kept himself quiet.
"I'm glad you have help." Hermione said softly.
Harry nodded again before he rolled his shoulders and sat up a little straighter.
"Can we move on?" Harry asked.
"Of course." Hermione said with a nod.
Harry nodded back.
"We'll have a DA meeting tonight. Let everyone know to be there. I'll talk to Draco…." Harry cut off and a sadness came over his face that Hermione didn't understand.
"I'll make sure the Slytherin's show up." Harry said with a firm nod.
Hermione worried her lip before she nodded. Harry didn't seem like he was up for a DA meeting but perhaps a normal day back at school would help.
"We need to head to class." Hermione said.
Ron and Harry followed. Hermione hoped things would go back to normal, or improve at least. Things couldn't continue this way.
Draco waited outside the Transfiguration class. He couldn't explain the level of relief he had felt when Severus came to the common room last night to let them know he was back and would be in class the next day. He'd not been able to catch him before he left but if Severus was back that meant Harry was back. Or at least he hoped. When he'd seen Sirius and Remus at breakfast, he knew Harry must be somewhere. He'd never seen him show up, but his friends weren't there either. He figured they must be talking.
Every morning he'd been meeting up with Granger and Weasley to check in and see if they'd heard from Harry. The had been asking too, since they hadn't heard from him either.
Draco had nearly run to Harry when the three of them had shown up in Transfiguration, but he'd held off. When the class had ended Draco had packed up slowly, hoping he could talk to Harry, but he'd approached McGonagall instead of heading out of class.
When the door opened Draco saw Harry shoving a stack of parchment into his bag.
"Hey." Draco said softly.
Harry's head popped up and he gave Draco a half smile.
"Hey." Harry said back.
"I thought we could walk together." Draco said blushing slightly.
Harry smiled again and Draco felt the warmth fill his stomach.
"Yeah, sounds good. I needed to talk to you anyway." Harry said as he took a step away from the classroom door and began leading them towards the stairs.
Draco listened intently as Harry apologized for disappearing, though he went into no details. He talked about the DA meeting he wanted to hold tonight, and Draco nodded along. He thought it was a good idea. His friends were getting nervous. Especially after Quinn had been attacked. Severus had told him that some of the seventh years had made threats. He assumed that it was all related.
As they approached Hagrid's hut Harry turned and smiled at him again.
"I know you said you wanted to go in to magical creatures as a career. I was thinking about hanging back after class, maybe having lunch with Hagrid. Do you want to join me?" Harry asked.
Draco felt trepidation. He knew that he had said some really terrible things to and about Hagrid over the years. He didn't think it was such a great idea. The idea of spending lunch with Harry was appealing though, so he nodded as they stepped up with their classmates.
Harry gave him another smile and Draco cursed himself when he blushed again. He didn't know what to do with his feelings. He didn't want to lose Harry as his friend. With everything that had been happening he felt like this was the wrong time to tell Harry, but he didn't know how long he could continue to say nothing.
Harry's wet paws pounded into the moist earth of the forbidden forest. Despite Snape telling him to take it easy, he wanted things to go back to normal. Which for him included his training that he had committed to. McGonagall had a fifteen-minute head start into the woods. He could smell her scent. Sometimes she would stay in human form and just disillusion herself. Other times she would shift and climb into the trees.
The smell began to intensify, and Harry knew he was getting closer. Suddenly the smell disappeared completely, and Harry slid to a stop and whined. His tail tucked low, and his hackles raised. A low growl emanated from his chest as he looked around. The only rule for their training was that Harry had to remain in this form in the woods.
Scent clearly wasn't the sense she wanted him to use. He couldn't see anything other than trees. He closed his eyes and listened intently.
There!
His eyes popped back open, and he looked to his left. He could hear a low humming noise. Sniffing along the ground he noticed that he also couldn't smell the normal forest smells. The moss and wet earth scents that he had smelt before were gone.
Harry wondered if McGonagall had used the same spell that she'd used to remove the smell from Privet Drive.
The humming noise got louder, and Harry smiled internally. The fallen log in front of him was hollowed out and he knew she must be hiding inside.
Feeling cheeky that he'd found her, he stuck his face down to one end and howled loudly.
The hiss and scratching noises he heard next made him snort as the grey tabby shot out of the far end of the log. Her hair was standing on end before there was a pop and McGonagall was once again standing in front of him.
"Very amusing Harry." McGonagall said, looking unimpressed.
Harry popped back into base form and laughed.
"It was a little funny." Harry said with a smile.
McGonagall gave him a fond look.
"You did well. I know you usually use your sense of smell to track as a dog, but You did well without it." McGonagall praised.
Harry blushed at the praise and nodded.
"I could hear you purring." Harry responded.
McGonagall chuckled a little.
"Yes, well, being out of this rainy weather was rather pleasant." McGonagall responded primly.
Harry nodded. The sun was nearly down, and dark storm clouds had rolled in. The light drizzle hadn't bothered him as a dog but now standing in just his robes was rather uncomfortable. November was firmly here and with it the cold weather. They'd have their first Quidditch match this weekend.
If he was still on the team after disappearing, he thought darkly.
"We should head back. Dinner is soon." McGonagall said.
Harry nodded and they turned back towards the castle.
Harry listened to the light patter of rain and the branches crunching under their feet.
"I'm sorry about what happened last week." McGonagall said softly.
Harry's stomach twisted. He'd thankfully been able to avoid talking about it much today. Without his outer shield he'd felt like a raw nerve expecting pain. He'd done a lot of deflecting questions and changing subjects. Not unlike what he'd done before last summer.
"I don't usually condone violence, but I think Severus was justified in what he did." McGonagall said, her voice tight.
"Were you there?" Harry asked quietly, not sure he wanted the answer.
Despite his memories coming back, he didn't have solid memories of the time from when Rick had pulled down the mental block, until he'd been back at Spinner's end. He remembered Snape pulling him out of his mind, and he vaguely remembered being in the hospital wing, but it was all very jumbled.
"Yes. When your patronus arrived, I was with Severus and your parents." McGonagall answered.
Harry bit his lip. He knew Rick had been saying some really horrible things before he'd broken the charm. He wondered how much they'd all heard.
"We don't need to talk about it, Harry." McGonagall said softly as they reached the clearing near Hagrid's hut. Harry smiled a little thinking about the lunch with Draco and Hagrid. Once he got them talking about Dragons it had been like he wasn't even there. It had been good for both of them.
"If you ever need anything, I'm always here. I think…" McGonagall broke off with a heavy sigh.
Harry turned to look at her and found her arms wrapped tightly over her chest holding her robes close. She was staring at the castle with a forlorn look on her face. Harry cast a warming spell over her, and she smiled slightly as she looked back over at Harry.
"I think if your parents had survived the last war, I would have been something of an aunt to you. I wish I could have been that. I miss them dearly. You have their spirit and determination." McGonagall said.
Harry felt his heart clench. He wished that he could have had that too.
He felt a smile creep up on him. In his effort to keep his mind from everything bad that was happening, he'd tried to find as many reasons to get people to laugh as he could.
"Race you back to the castle Aunt Minnie." Harry said cheekily before popping back into Akela.
He only caught a slight chuckle before he'd taken off.
Minerva walked slowly back to her office. Harry had of course beaten her back to the castle. He was younger and a much larger animal after all. Still, it had been a fun evening. Harry calling her Aunt Minnie had warmed something in her heart. She knew he must still be struggling to overcome what had happened last week, but he seemed to be trying hard to keep himself in a good mood. She'd been surprised when he stayed after class to ask about continuing his training.
Although she was hesitant to push him, his lessons had become one of her favorite activities. Harry was so bright, and now that he was really letting every one see how intelligent he was, she was frequently impressed with his work.
She'd been honest when she'd told Harry that she thought they would have had a different relationship if Lily and James had lived, Or even if Sirius and Remus had ended up raising him. She had been close with them after they'd left school and had felt maternal to them all.
Dropping her heavy traveling cloak in her rooms she headed to the Great Hall for dinner. She was hoping that she would have a chance to talk to Severus. She'd gathered from her conversation with Remus at Lunch that Harry would be staying with him.
She'd gotten the impression there was more happening then had really been shared. She wasn't going to dig but she wanted to know how Harry was actually doing.
Forgoing her regular seat, she sat down next to Severus.
The man turned and raised an eyebrow in her direction.
"I wanted to see if we could meet after dinner for a drink." Minerva inquired.
Severus nodded and set down his fork.
"Is everything alright?" Severus asked, turning to give her his full attention.
"I had a lesson with Harry this evening and I just wanted to check in. We also haven't had our regular tea in a while." Minerva said.
Severus took a deep breath and sighed slightly.
"I'd asked Harry to take it easy when he left this morning. I'm not sure diving back into all of his extra lessons is going to be best for him. He was burning himself out, and I think he needs a little down time between regular lessons and the tasks he's already undertaking, like Quidditch and his training group." Severus said, letting his eyes scan over the students.
Minerva's lips pinched. She didn't know that Harry wasn't supposed to be doing his extra lessons.
"I think it was good for him." Minerva commented. Running in the woods always seemed to lift his mood.
Severus nodded. She supposed they could discuss it more when they met up.
"Looks like they have training tonight." Severus said.
Minerva looked out at the students, and watched more of them than usual begin to collect their things and head out. It had become a regular occurrence for the training group to leave a little early from dinner on Monday and Friday.
Minerva was surprised that so many of the students had joined. Harry had students from every grade and house with him now. Except for the seventh year Slytherin's. Though that wasn't a surprise.
"I'll come by your quarters after curfew. I want to make sure all the students make it back to the common room, and Harry is in for the night." Severus said.
Minerva nodded and stood before heading to her normal seat near Albus.
Harry swallowed thickly as the room filled more and more. There were way more people here then there normally were. Hermione had charmed the door to detect the Dark Mark. It was a complicated charm she'd found last week. Harry thought it was a good idea. While they knew the Slytherin's had been marked, that didn't mean none of their other classmates had been.
Harry was unsurprised to see the room grow larger and larger as the students poured in. It now felt nearly as large as the Great Hall. A space they were going to need if they were all expecting to train here.
When the last few slipped in and the door closed, Harry sighed deeply. This was a lot.
He looked to Hermione, Ron, Draco, and Pansy who were all standing near the front with him. They had all taken active training rolls and Harry was thankful he wasn't leading the group alone.
They gave him encouraging nods and he tried to call attention to the group. A few in the front heard him but his voice was washed out by the chatter.
Harry clenched his jaw. He looked over at his friends who were also trying to calm everyone. This wouldn't work. What if something happened and he needed to get everyone's attention quickly. An attack in the great hall for example.
Shaking his head he thought about startling McGonagall. A small smirk creased his mouth before he shifted.
Throwing his head back he howled loudly. It trailed off and Harry found himself in a silent room with everyone's eyes on him.
The floor at this end was slightly raised like in the great hall and with this many students he was thankful for it. He'd need to be seen from the back and his height wouldn't help with that.
Shifting back, he smiled out at the shocked faces.
"Now, I know there have been some concerns about my absence from the school. I know several of the staff have been gone as well. As I know the rumor mill has been at work, I will tell you this. Yes, there was another attack. No, that threat was not a Death Eater. No, there is no longer a threat from that person." Harry started.
"Where have you been?" Someone shouted.
Harry swallowed.
"Recovering." Harry said thickly.
There were murmurs and Harry cleared his throat.
"We are going to continue our training tonight with a new set of spells. In the coming weeks we will be moving away from spell work, and starting some new training. I have four things that I think are important for each of us to have a base understanding of. For the next four weeks each group will be working on these things. The last two weeks before winter hols we are all going to be practicing together. Any questions?" Harry asked.
There were a lot of questioning looks but no one said anything.
Harry nodded.
"Now, you were all scanned for a Dark Mark upon entering. If you're here we can all be assured that you do not possess one. Hermione will be walking around during the meeting to get a magical signature from each of you. By signing the page, you are agreeing not to betray us. There are consequences if you break this agreement. If any of this bother's you, leave now." Harry said harshly.
His eyes met Cho's, thinking back to Marietta last year. Cho's face hardened slightly. He knew it wasn't anger at him, just at what had happened. They'd all been betrayed.
There were nods and Harry nodded back.
"Very well. Fifth year and above, up here with me and Draco. We'll be learning Bombarda, how to cast it and how to control it. Third and fourth year back right, Ron and Pansy will be with you in a moment to begin training you on cutting curses. First and Second year back left corner. You will be practicing bat-bogey Hexes with Ginny and Hermione." Harry said.
There were some laughs.
"You laugh now, but Gin has a mean bat-bogey hex." Harry grinned.
His face got sterner.
"Sometimes the best way to defend yourself is a distraction so that you can get away. Once you've mastered the Bat-bogey hex you'll be learning the Avis Charm." Harry said in a no-nonsense tone.
Hopefully the younger kids would never need to fight. He knew their odds in outright battle were not good, But if they learned skills to distract or disarm, they might have a chance of escape.
"Very well, everyone find your area." Harry said pacing back on the raised platform.
Harry sighed as the door to Snapes quarters closed behind him. He was exhausted after such a long day. He still had homework to complete as well as letters to write. Snape had given him his mail and he had things to address.
Snape didn't seem to be here yet, so he made his way to the kitchen and got a glass of water before making himself at home on the couch. He briefly thought he should take his work to his room, but he enjoyed the comfort of Snape's sitting room.
Pulling out his notes for the DA meeting he rubbed his forehead. He planned on doing units to get the DA more training. Swords, Physical combat, basic healing, and magical tools. They needed more than their magic and he wanted them to be prepared for anything.
He planned to have Draco teach sword work as well as any of the purebloods that had training. He knew Seamus had taken boxing classes and that he'd taught Dean some as well. He thought he might reach out and see if anyone else had training in fighting. While it would be a last resort, if they needed it, he wanted them to be able to fight their way out.
He'd failed at that.
Harry felt shame color his cheeks. He'd never been strong. Vernon and Dudley had always been able to hurt him. When Rick came along, he was too afraid to even fight back.
Bile welled in his throat, and he took a sip of his water, shaking the thought from his mind.
He had a good understanding of healing. Both magical and muggle. He planned to do these lessons himself. He wanted the students to know how to conjure bandages, identify potions, and cast basic healing charms. If there were some that took better to the knowledge he'd teach them more.
He planned to buy potion supplies in Hogsmeade and brew basic potion kits for the DA to carry the way the Order did. He'd need to keep it quiet from Snape. He was sure they still didn't want him to have free access to potions.
Sighing he rubbed his forehead.
He needed to write to Rokk and see about getting a large sum of money transferred. He planned to talk with Blaise and Greengrass about their foreign contacts. He wanted to buy a few properties for additional safe houses. Something like a church or defunct school would be best. From his understanding of the Order meeting's, there were safe houses around the Uk but nothing further away. He didn't think that was safe enough. It also sounded like they didn't expect the school to be attacked.
They kept talking about the school being impenetrable, which Harry didn't agree with. It seemed that the plan was just to make sure all the students were locked in the school if the grounds or Hogsmeade were attacked.
There were nearly three hundred students at the school. If the Order or the staff weren't going to make plans to evacuate them, then Harry would.
Harry groaned and rubbed his forehead. He was getting a headache.
"Are you all right?" Snape said from over his shoulder and Harry jumped.
Looking back Snape had a concerned look on his face.
"I apologize. I thought you would have heard the door." Snape said walking around the couch.
Harry relaxed and shook his head.
"No, sorry. I'm…fine." Harry said with another sigh.
Snape gave him a scrutinizing look.
"Bit of a headache." Harry admitted.
Snape nodded.
"Would you like a potion?" Snape asked.
Harry shook his head.
"I'm just going to drink some water. Probably didn't have enough today." Harry said with a shrug, before picking up his glass.
"I plan to go up and have a drink with Minerva, do you need anything?" Snape asked.
Harry considered for a moment before biting his lip. He needed to talk to the twins. It would be easier if he could just talk with Fred and George in person, than sending them a letter and hoping they responded quickly. He wanted to meet them on Saturday in Hogsmeade.
"May I use the floo?" Harry asked hesitantly.
He didn't like asking for anything, but Snape had been accommodating.
Severus gave him a concerned look.
"Where do you want to go?" Severus asked warily.
Harry remembered Snape telling him that it had scared him when he ran away.
"I just want to talk to Fred and George." Harry said, rolling his shoulders. He felt stiff after practice.
Snape nodded.
"You may invite them here. Don't stay up too late. I'll be back in a couple of hours." Snape said with a nod.
Harry smiled.
"Thank you." Harry said softly as Snape headed out of his quarters.
"Your welcome. Don't make me regret it." Snape said with a slight snort.
Harry was sure letting the ' twin terrors' in, as Snape called them, wasn't a comforting thought. Though he thought they had proven themselves to Snape over the last few months.
George groaned as he pulled off his sock. His feet were killing him from a day at the shop. The cushioning charms on his shoes had worn off, and he was ready for a hot soak and a long night of sleep.
When the floo flared, he glared at the green flames. He'd had enough for one day. Suddenly Harry's face appeared in the flames. All of his annoyances fled. He hadn't seen or heard from Harry since Halloween.
"Harry?" George called, sliding off the couch.
"Hey." Harry said calmly.
"What's going on? Are you all right?" George asked worriedly.
"I'm fine. Tired. It's been a long day." Harry said with a sigh.
George nodded.
"Yeah, it's been a long one." George agreed.
"Listen, um I was wondering if you and Fred could come through. I had some questions about the shop." Harry said.
George felt his body relax. Harry wanted to chat about the shop, this wasn't something bad then.
"Fred's out with Angie. I can come through though." George said.
Harry nodded and gave him a small smile.
"Okay. I'm in Snape's quarters." Harrys said with a nod.
"Alright. I'll need just a minute and then I'll be through." Geroge said, before standing.
The floo closed and George went to write Fred a note. They always tried to let the other know when they weren't going to be here. Limping a little, he went to his room and found fresh socks and comfortable shoes.
Once he was ready, he floo'd to Snapes quarters.
Harry was sitting on the couch with a mess of parchment and books all around him. Harry was in base form with his hair twisted away from his face and held in place with his wand. He looked relaxed. His tie and robes were gone, and his shirt sleeves were rolled up. It was nice to see Harry looking like he was actually comfortable in a space.
"Hey." George said calmly taking a seat in one of the armchairs.
"Hey. Give me just a second." Harry said, scribbling something down in a journal.
Harry looked up and met George's eye. He had a smile on his face, but it was obvious that he was exhausted.
"How are things going?" Harry asked.
George nodded.
"Everything has been fine. The shop's been a little slow. We figure it'll pick back up over the holidays. The alley has been thankfully quiet. Fred and Angie are good." George said with a shrug. Honestly things were pretty boring but good.
Harry nodded.
"And you and Oliver?" Harry asked, flashing him a small smile.
George's cheeks heated a little at the thought of Oliver. They'd finally gone on a few dates. Oliver's schedule was crazy but he was making time for them to meet up. George thought things were going really well.
"It's going good." George admitted.
Harry nodded.
"I'm glad." Harry said softly.
"How about you? I know things were pretty rough the last time I saw you." George said hesitantly.
Harry sighed.
"They got worse…but it's been resolved." Harry said in a clipped tone.
George's brows furrowed.
"What does that mean?" George asked.
Harry's hands twisted a little in his lap before he cleared his throat.
"Um…That wizard that I was having issues with, he's the one who attacked me on Halloween." Harry whispered out.
George clenched his jaw but waited for Harry to continue.
"He um…apparently he was in the school. He was the one blocking my memories." Harry said. George noticed that his voice shook a little, but he was surprised to see that otherwise Harry was staying calm.
George was livid to know the creep was in the school and had attacked Harry.
"Did um…" George shook his head, he needed to ask. It had haunted the back of his mind all week.
"Did he um…?" George asked weekly.
Harry sucked in a sharp breath and a blush flamed up his cheeks.
"No." Harry said shortly.
George nodded.
"Sorry…I…No he didn't. Um Snape broke the memory charms. I think that was his intention, but he never did…not here at school." Harry mumbled out.
George nodded.
"I'm sorry that you've been dealing with this." George said genuinely.
Harry sighed and rubbed his face.
"Yeah, it's been a lot." Harry admitted.
"He's dead now though." Harry revealed.
George was surprised but honestly relieved. He hoped the monster had suffered.
"How are you doing now?" George asked.
Harry shrugged.
"It's been a lot but…um…better I think. Snape helped me organize my mind and I think it might actually be the best I've been mentally for a long time." Harry explained. His cheeks flushed a little.
George smiled.
"I'm glad to hear it." George said. He was glad to hear Harry was doing better. It had felt like a very long, dark year already.
Harry nodded.
"Yeah, um today was kind of a lot but I think it was alright." Harry said a little more firmly.
George could tell Harry really meant that.
"Tell me about it. Your day. I'd like to hear." George said sitting back in the chair.
Harry smiled a little and also seemed to relax.
George listened to Harry talk. It sounded like he'd had a full day, and he wasn't surprised that Harry was exhausted. Harry had brought up Draco a few times and every time he did, he blushed. It was kind of adorable.
"So how are things going with Draco?" George asked with a cheeky smile.
Harry blushed again and shook his head. A few strands of his hair had fallen loose and now fell in his face.
"Were just friends." Harry said.
George raised an eyebrow when Harry looked over at him.
"You should give it a shot." George encouraged.
Harry shook his head again.
"He's in a relationship. Plus, I…I can't be…I can't do those things. No one want's a broken boyfriend." Harry said.
George sighed. He wouldn't push. He understood Harry's worries. However, he wanted to reassure Harry that if he wanted a relationship, he wasn't broken, and he could be loved. Even if he didn't want to be physical with someone.
"I get that. It doesn't have to be like that though, you know?" George said.
Harry looked at him skeptically.
"It builds with trust. You don't have to jump in bed with him on a first date or something. If he likes you, he'll be happy to wait until you're ready to do anything physically. If you ever are." George said.
Harry rolled his neck.
"And if he doesn't then you tell me, and they'll never find the body." George said half joking, half serious.
Harry snorted.
"Okay. Still though. I have to die." Harry sighed.
George stomach clenched at that reminder.
"Horcrux pox remember. You have got to live while you're here. You really want to get to the end without at least trying a relationship?" George asked, trying to raise the mood.
Harry shrugged.
"I'll think about it. Like I said Draco's with someone…But I don't know. Maybe I'll…I don't know." Harry said with a shrug.
George found it hard to believe Draco was in a relationship. The way he seemed to worry over Harry when they'd been here on Halloween, definitely looked like he liked Harry.
"Well just keep it in mind. I'm always here if you ever want to talk." George said, wrapping up the conversation. He knew it was making Harry uncomfortable.
"Thanks." Harry said, a relieved smile stretching across his face.
"So, what did you want to talk to Fred and I about? You said something about the shop." George asked.
"I want to commission some products from you guys." Harry said pulling out a list and holding it out to George.
George's jaw dropped a little at the long list.
"Er…what's this all for?" George asked.
Harry got that determined war look on his face.
"I think these products could be useful to the students if the castle is attacked. I want to arm them as best as I can. I think these products could be helpful." Harry explained.
George breathed deeply and nodded.
"Yeah, I could see that. Nothing like turning pranks into survival tools." George said dryly.
Harry gave him a sympathetic smile.
"When do you want them?" George asked.
"I was hoping to meet with you and Fred on Saturday. It's a Hogsmeade weekend. Thought maybe we could discuss details. I have a few ideas for some new product ideas." Harry said, handing George a few more pages.
George looked them over and nodded. They were good ideas.
"I'd like to have at least some of the supplies in two weeks, the whole batch in a month." Harry said.
George nodded. This would certainly keep them busy before the holidays.
"Yeah. I think we can make that work." George said.
Harry smiled at him.
"I appreciate it. Bring me a total after you talk to Fred. I'll make sure I get you the payment right away." Harry said.
George went to argue that as an investor he was entitled to some products.
"I want to pay for them. I have more money than I could ever spend in ten lifetimes. I want to use it in ways I can justify. I have some other expensive plans in the works as well. Plus, you guys would be doing me a favor. I imagine this list will be quite a bit of work." Harry said in a steady tone.
George found it reassuring. Harry made a good leader. He thought of things that the Order didn't.
Harry yawned widely and George laughed.
"I'm going to head back. Looks like you've got homework, and you should probably get some sleep." George said, standing and stretching his back.
Harry nodded and sighed as he shuffled parchment into piles.
"All right. See you on Saturday?" Harry asked.
"Of course. We'll bring Angie and Oliver. I'm sure they'd like to see you too. We're a team after all." George said with a smile.
Harry nodded.
"I'll let Kattie and Alisha know you guys are all coming. I'm sure they'd like to see you." Harry said. He smiled but something in his eyes was dark.
"How's Katie doing?" George asked.
Harry sighed.
"It's been rough. I'm working on a potion I hope will help but…I don't know. She's strong, I think this has only made her more determined." Harry said with a confident nod.
George gave him a tight smile.
"Keep an eye on her." George said.
"I'm keeping an eye on all of them. You don't have a spare set, do you?" Harry said, shaking his head.
George smirked and reached into his pocket.
"Catch." George called before tossing the item in his pocket to Harry.
Harry caught it and laughed.
"It's in our muggle toy line." George said with a laugh. The small ring had googly eyes on top. It was ridiculous looking but for an extra knut they would charm the eyes to move and follow objects. They seemed to be a favorite of the younger kids.
Harry shook his head.
"Night, George." Harry said standing and giving him a hug.
George hugged Harry tightly.
"Night Harry." George said before flooing home.