CHAPTER 75: THE BUSINESS OF MAGIC

As they began discussing the logistics of their future business, Harry couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. He wasn't just giving them gold—he was giving them a chance to turn their dreams into reality. And if anyone deserved that chance, it was Fred and George.

Harry grinned. "Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, huh? Sounds perfect for you two."

Fred and George exchanged a look, still processing Harry's offer. It was clear that they hadn't expected such a generous deal, and the wheels were already turning in their heads.

"Harry, mate," Fred started, his voice unusually serious. "We don't even know how to thank you. I mean—this is massive."

"Yeah," George added, still wide-eyed. "We didn't think anyone would believe in us like this, let alone you."

Harry shrugged again, feeling a little uncomfortable with their gratitude. "It's not about belief. It's about recognizing potential. You two have got it. Now go make it happen."

Hermione, who had been watching silently, crossed her arms again, though there was a slight smile tugging at her lips. "Just promise me you won't use this money for more dungbombs and fireworks."

Fred feigned offense. "Hermione, we would never waste Harry's generous investment on mere fireworks. We're thinking… portable swamps."

George chimed in, nodding sagely. "And maybe a line of instant darkness powder. Very practical for, you know, tactical retreats."

Hermione groaned, but Harry laughed. "I knew it was a good investment. Just… try not to get yourselves into too much trouble, alright?"

"No promises," Fred said, his usual grin returning. "But we'll try to avoid Azkaban, if that makes you feel better."

"Small mercies," Hermione muttered.

Ron, who had been quiet for most of the conversation, finally spoke up. "Blimey, Harry, I never thought you'd be the one funding a joke shop. You've gone mad."

"Maybe," Harry replied with a grin. "But if anyone can make it work, it's Fred and George."

The twins gave Harry matching looks of determination. "We won't let you down, Harrikins," Fred promised.

"Yeah," George agreed. "We'll make this shop legendary."

As they sat together in the common room, brainstorming their next steps, Harry felt a growing sense of satisfaction. Helping his friends wasn't just about standing beside them in battle; it was about supporting their dreams and ambitions. Fred and George's ideas for Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes were starting to take shape, and Harry was proud to be a part of it. The thought of the twins succeeding with their joke shop filled him with a certain pride—it was exciting to think he could help them turn their vision into reality.

"This is going to be something special," Harry mused, leaning back in his chair with a grin. "I can feel it."

Fred's eyes twinkled mischievously. "You're not wrong, mate. We're about to revolutionize the world of magical mischief."

"Better yet," George added, "we'll be the most famous pranksters since... well, since you, Harry."

Harry laughed. "Sounds fun. Once you've got things set up, get me some working models. I'll see what I can do to get you a meeting with Daphne's dad. He deals with a lot of trade on the continent—he could help you get the materials cheaper, maybe even lend some investment, if you're open to it. What do you think?"

Fred and George exchanged wide-eyed looks, their usually witty retorts momentarily absent as they processed Harry's offer. They hadn't expected him to go that far.

"You... you realize you're offering something pretty big, right?" Fred said, voice tinged with disbelief. "This isn't just pocket change, Harry. It's practically a blank check."

"Yeah," George chimed in, still looking gobsmacked. "No contract, no formal agreement—are you sure?"

Harry shrugged nonchalantly. "I trust you guys."

Fred raised an eyebrow. "Harry, don't take this the wrong way, but even I don't trust George that much."

"Oi!" George exclaimed, punching his twin playfully in the arm. "I'm the responsible one here!"

Harry grinned, shaking his head at the banter. "Seriously though, you two have always been ahead of the curve with your jokes and inventions. If anyone can make this work, it's you. And if I can help push things along, then why not?"

The twins fell silent for a moment, the weight of Harry's trust sinking in. Then, as if on cue, they both broke into wide grins.

"Well, mate," Fred said, clapping Harry on the shoulder, "if you're sure, we'll take you up on it."

"Yeah," George added, still smiling. "We'll make sure this investment pays off, Harry. Just wait till you see what we've got planned."

Later, as Harry, Ron, and Hermione walked the castle corridors, Ron gave Harry a sideways glance, clearly impressed. "That was something, mate. I didn't even know Fred and George had plans beyond doing pranks."

"Yeah, same here," Harry replied, still buzzing with excitement. "But they're serious about it. This joke shop idea of theirs—it's going to be big."

Hermione, however, was less convinced. She crossed her arms, her tone dripping with skepticism. "A joke shop? Honestly, Harry, they need to grow up. It's a ridiculous idea. And you—you did a terrible job by encouraging them! Three thousand galleons? That's no small amount of money."

Harry's enthusiasm faltered for a moment. He knew Hermione meant well, but she wasn't seeing the potential here. "Hermione, the Potter family holds a seven percent stake in Zonko's, you know that, right?" he began, trying to reason with her. "And Zonko's, even though it's only focused on Hogwarts students, is still one of the best investments we've got. Imagine what the twins could do with a wider customer base, with actual marketing and distribution."

"But this is different," Hermione argued, her brow furrowing. "Zonko's is an established business, with a reputation. Fred and George are just... well, they're pranksters. They don't have any experience running a business."

Harry sighed, though he wasn't deterred. "They've been running their own little business for years, Hermione, even if it's just been selling to students. Their pranks and inventions are next-level. You've seen their extendable ears, haven't you?"

"Those silly things?" Hermione scoffed.

"They're not silly, Hermione," Harry countered. "Aurors could use them for surveillance, Hit-Wizards too. Imagine if they disillusioned the ears or made them blend into the surroundings. They could listen in on enemies without being detected. And it's not just that. Daphne's dad deals in a lot of international trade—if the twins can create quality products, he can help them expand beyond the UK. There's real potential here."

"Wait, you're thinking international?" Ron asked, his eyes widening in surprise. "I thought they were just setting up a shop in Diagon Alley."

"That's the plan, but why stop there?" Harry said with a grin. "If they start in Diagon Alley and build a name for themselves, they could go global. It's not impossible. And Daphne's dad could help with that. He knows the right people and the right markets."

Hermione still looked dubious, but she couldn't deny Harry's logic. "I just... I don't want you to lose all your money, Harry. What if it doesn't work out?"

"It will," Harry said firmly. "I've got faith in them. And even if it doesn't, it's my money to lose. I've already won more than enough from that ridiculous defamation trial against Fudge. Twenty thousand galleons, Hermione. I can afford to take a risk."

Ron whistled softly, clearly impressed. "That's a lot of galleons, mate. No wonder you're feeling generous."

Harry smiled, though his mind was already racing ahead, thinking about the possibilities. "It's not just about the money, Ron. Fred and George have something special here. And I want to help them make it happen."

Hermione sighed, shaking her head, but her tone softened a little. "I just hope you know what you're doing, Harry."

"I do," Harry replied, feeling more confident than ever. "And so do they."

"What?" Hermione asked, arching an eyebrow as she caught his gaze.

"Nothing, erm, it's just... you know stuff now," she stammered, her cheeks slightly flushed. "I was surprised. I didn't expect you to, erm—"

"The meetings with Fleur weren't just for ice cream," Harry said, almost to himself, but loud enough for his friends to hear. "She had to get me to understand exactly what my investments were, what my holdings meant, and how to manage them properly. I still think it's way above my pay grade, but I'm learning."

Hermione was staring at him again, eyes wide with surprise.

"Oh, what now?" Harry said, unable to suppress a slight smile at her reaction.

"Nothing," she said quickly, her blush deepening. "Just... you seem a lot different. I thought you felt different at your party, but I thought…"

"Oh well, things change," Harry replied with a shrug, trying to dismiss the compliment. "Can't be a Lord and expect to be treated like an adult without taking responsibilities. Even Sirius prefers this. I'm going to see exactly where my investments are headed after a year, and then I'll decide if I'm cut out for this whole thing. Plus, Sirius even got me a secretary to help me deal with it all."

The moment he said that, he instantly cursed himself. The revelation hung in the air, and he could sense the shift in his friends' expressions.

"Oh right," Ron said, his tone grumbling as he crossed his arms. "I totally forgot. Mum was so happy when he came home."

Harry glanced at Ron, surprised. "Yeah, it was a bit of a shock for me too. I was surprised when Sirius told me about it. Guess it was obvious in the end, wasn't it? After all, he's a Weasley."

Ron gave him a lopsided grin but quickly dropped it, his brow furrowing again. "Still," he grumbled, fists clenching, "he didn't have to say those things to Mum and Dad."

"Actually, he did," Hermione interjected, her tone firm but sympathetic. "If he didn't, Fudge would think something was suspicious. Your brother is a true Gryffindor, Ronald."

"True Gryffindor or not," Ron scowled, his voice rising slightly, "he's a toerag, that's what he is. He taught me chess, you know. While Bill and Charlie were out working, and the twins were always busy with their pranks, Percy was the one who actually looked after me as a kid. And then he went ahead and acted like that. It just... makes me so angry."

Hermione patted him gently on the shoulder, her expression softening. "It's understandable, Ron. Family can be complicated. Percy probably thought he was doing the right thing."

"But he wasn't!" Ron retorted, his frustration bubbling over. "It's like he's forgotten what really matters. Family should come first, not some self-important rules he's trying to follow."

Harry watched his friend, noting the tension in his posture. "It sounds like he's struggling too, Ron. Maybe he just needs some time to realize what he's missing. You could reach out to him."

"Yeah, right," Ron scoffed, rolling his eyes. "You really think I want to be stuck talking to Percy right now? Last time we spoke, it was like he was trying to lecture me on proper behavior and… and whatnot. I don't need that from him!"

"But maybe he needs your forgiveness," Hermione suggested, her voice gentle. "He's still your brother, and he might just be trying to do what he thinks is best, even if it's misguided."

Harry nodded in agreement. "You never know, Ron. Sometimes people come around when you least expect it. Just give it time."

"Time?" Ron echoed incredulously. "I've already given him enough time! I don't want to talk to him if he's just going to preach at me."

Hermione sighed but smiled a little. "Okay, fair point. But just remember that even if it feels like he's being a prat, he's still family. You'll always have a bond, even if it's a strained one."

"Thanks, Hermione," Ron muttered, softening slightly at her words. "I know you mean well. It's just hard to see him acting all high and mighty."

"Things will work out," Harry reassured him. "Just keep being the Ron we all know and love. The one who stands up for his family, even when they don't make it easy."

Ron let out a reluctant chuckle, the tension easing. "Yeah, I suppose I can try. Just as long as he doesn't start spouting off rules about how to be a perfect brother."

With that, the trio continued down the corridor, the shadows of their worries still lingering but gradually fading as the laughter of their shared memories began to fill the space between them once more.

"And really, Harry, taking Bigheadboy as your secretary? Didn't you have enough of his pompous arse last year?" Ron exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief.

Harry scratched his head, feeling a mix of amusement and embarrassment. "It was Sirius and Joshua's idea, really. I didn't even know it happened until it happened. They're kind of running with the story that you're my best mate, so I took pity on Percy and hired him in exchange for bailing him out of Azkaban early. They have all sorts of crazy plans going on, and I'm happy to stay out of it."

"You really think of them as family, don't you?" Hermione asked out of nowhere, her tone thoughtful. The speculative expression on her face promised a binder of research on whatever had caught her curiosity.

"Hermione, Sirius is my godfather, and he's adopted me into the Black family. And the Greengrasses are actually family from my grandmother's side," Harry explained, trying to convey the significance of these connections.

"Still, you didn't know them before, and now you spend so much time with the Greengrasses—"

"He's going to marry that bird, Hermione," Ron interjected, a teasing smirk crossing his face. "Who else would he spend time with?"

A scowl flashed across Hermione's face for a moment, and then it was gone. "Yes, but he shouldn't. This is our OWL year; we need to prepare for OWLs. Voldemort is back, and he'd come after Harry. Instead of being protected and trained, he's got to play house with some Slytherin princess and whatever Fleur Delacour is doing with him."

"Eh, I don't think it's that difficult to imagine what she's doing with him," Ron said, wagging his eyebrows suggestively, a cheeky grin spreading across his face.

"Not the point!" Hermione replied crossly, her voice rising slightly. "She's a professor. She should maintain restraint. This is a school!"

Harry couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and exasperation. He wanted to clarify. "Actually, Hermione, Fleur is maintaining a lot of restraint. In her own words, now that she found someone unaffected by her allure, her desires are outpouring, and I'm her go-to sink." He hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Given how we've ended up shagging twice every single day in the last month before term, I'd say she's showing a lot of restraint."

Hermione's eyes widened in shock. "Harry! You can't just—"

"What?" Harry interrupted, grinning. "It's not like I'm broadcasting it in the Great Hall. Besides, it's my life, and I can make my own choices."

Ron burst into laughter, unable to contain himself. "You've got to admit, Hermione, that's a pretty good point! If Harry's happy, what's the harm?"

"But it's not just about happiness!" Hermione argued, her frustration palpable. "It's about focus. We're all under so much pressure. How can Harry juggle a relationship with studies, especially with the looming threat of Voldemort?"

Harry nodded, appreciating her concern. "I get that, Hermione, but Fleur has been a great support. She understands the weight on my shoulders, and she knows when to pull back. Plus, having her around actually helps me unwind a bit, which is something I really need right now."

"But, Harry," Hermione pressed, her voice softening slightly, "what if things go south? Relationships can be tricky, especially with everything we're facing."

Ron, still chuckling, chimed in, "And let's be honest, Harry, Slytherin and Gryffindor don't exactly have the best history together. You know how the others will react."

"They'll just have to deal with it," Harry said, a hint of defiance in his voice. "I'm tired of hiding who I care about just because of house rivalries. If they can't accept it, that's their problem, not mine."

"You sound quite grown-up about this," Hermione admitted, her tone turning serious. "Just... promise us you'll be careful? With everything happening, you can't afford to lose sight of what's really important."

"Of course," Harry assured her, feeling a sense of gratitude for her concern. "I'll be careful. I promise."

As they rounded a corner, the laughter and chatter of other students began to swell around them, filling the air with a sense of lightness that contrasted sharply with their earlier discussions. For a moment, the heaviness of their burdens lifted, and Harry felt a renewed sense of camaraderie and determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

"I am dating Fleur," he admitted out loud, the words slipping from his mouth almost unconsciously. It really was an open secret; everyone knew that he and Fleur Delacour were an item, even though they never displayed affection publicly. Inside his private room, though, that was an entirely different story.

"But you're supposed to marry Greengrass," Ron replied, his brow furrowing in confusion. "For whatever reason that you can't even trust me with."

Harry paused, realization dawning on him. So that was how Ron saw it.

"I can tell you that I'm not doing it because I'm forced to in any way or form," Harry reassured him, his voice steady. "I could choose to walk away from this marriage right now, and no one—not Dumbledore, not Sirius, and especially not Daphne—would try to stop me. But I won't."

"But why?" Hermione pressed, her eyes wide with curiosity, as if she were trying to decipher a complex puzzle.

Harry smiled, a warmth spreading through him at the thought of Daphne. "Two months ago, I'd have said it's because sometimes a choice isn't a choice at all."

"And now?" Hermione prompted, leaning in closer, her interest piqued.

He looked at the earnest expression on her face, and something in him softened. "Now, it's because I believe in what I'm doing. I can see a future with Daphne, one that's built on mutual understanding and respect. It's not just about the marriage—it's about partnership."

Hermione blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Harry, that's… that's a big deal. I'm glad you feel that way, but it's just so sudden. I mean, a Slytherin? Of all people?"

Harry chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "Yeah, I get it. Trust me, it surprised me too. But life doesn't always follow the script we expect. Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut."

"Come on, we're going to be late for class," he said, trying to steer the conversation away from the heavy emotions. He whirled around and began walking, hoping to shake off the weight of the discussion.

"He's different," he heard Hermione murmur behind him, her tone thoughtful. "Too different."

She was right, Harry mused. More right than she could imagine.

No matter how he sliced it, the truth was that there was already some distance between them. The Golden Trio, once inseparable, was evolving in ways he never anticipated. Ron, despite the occasional furrow in his brow, seemed to accept this shift, mentally preparing himself for what was to come. Harry could sense the quiet resignation in Ron's demeanor, as if he'd come to realize the kind of changes that could happen now that Harry—the pivotal member of their trio—was slowly pulling away to take charge of his own destiny.

With Daphne and Fleur in his life, and all the other tumultuous events swirling around them, the bond they once shared felt like it was straining at the seams.

He didn't like it. But it was the truth. A truth he didn't quite know how to voice. As they entered the classroom, the chatter of their classmates filled the air, and he felt a sense of normalcy wash over him. Their talk could wait; right now, he had lessons to focus on, challenges to meet.

Sitting at their usual spot, he glanced at Hermione, who was still deep in thought, her brow furrowed. Ron was fidgeting, drumming his fingers on the table. It was as if they were all waiting for the inevitable to happen, the moment when everything would change for good.

Harry couldn't shake the feeling that they were standing at the edge of a precipice, looking down into an uncertain future. But as the teacher entered and began the lesson, he pushed those thoughts aside, determined to embrace whatever came next. For now, they were still together, and that had to be enough.

As the teacher began the lesson, Harry tried to focus on the material, but his mind kept drifting back to the conversation with Hermione and Ron. He glanced around the classroom, observing his fellow students. Many were engaged in their own discussions, laughter echoing as they exchanged quips and jokes. But amidst that lightheartedness, Harry felt a weight settling on his chest—a nagging reminder of the responsibilities and choices ahead.

As the lesson progressed, Professor McGonagall droned on about the intricacies of Transfiguration, but Harry found it hard to concentrate. The words flowed over him like a gentle stream, yet he remained rooted in his thoughts. What if things really were changing too fast? he wondered.

The bell rang, jolting him back to reality. Students began to rise from their seats, packing up their things with a sense of urgency, eager to escape the confines of the classroom. Ron turned to him, a conspiratorial grin spreading across his face.

"Hey, mate," Ron said, nudging Harry with his elbow, "You up for a game of Wizard's Chess after lunch? I've been practicing my moves."

Harry chuckled, grateful for the distraction. "Sure, I could use a break. But you better be ready to lose. I've been working on my strategy."

"Ha! You're on!" Ron replied, his eyes gleaming with competitive spirit.

As they stepped out of the classroom, Hermione caught up to them, her brows still knitted in thought. "Harry, about Fleur—do you really think she's good for you? I mean, she's so much older and experienced. What if she just sees you as a trophy or something?"

Harry sighed, feeling the familiar pang of frustration. "I appreciate your concern, Hermione, but Fleur isn't like that. She respects me for who I am, not just for what I represent. She's been through her own struggles, and she gets it."

"But can she really understand what you're going through?" Hermione pressed, her tone earnest. "You're dealing with Voldemort, the war, everything. It's a lot."

Harry nodded, recognizing the sincerity in her words. "You're right, it is a lot. But Fleur has been a source of strength for me. She's been there when I needed someone to talk to, someone who doesn't see me just as 'The Boy Who Lived.' And I don't want to lose that."

Ron, sensing the tension, tried to lighten the mood. "Well, as long as she doesn't turn you into a toad, I think you'll be alright. Just remember to keep your wand close. You never know when you might need to defend yourself."

Harry couldn't help but chuckle at Ron's attempt at humor. "I'll keep that in mind. Maybe I should start practicing my 'toad-transfiguration' just in case."

The three of them laughed, the sound echoing through the hallways, easing the earlier tension. As they moved through the bustling corridors, Harry noticed a few students casting curious glances his way, their whispers barely audible above the din.

"Look, it's Harry Potter!" one of them exclaimed, barely able to contain their excitement.

"Do you think he's really dating Fleur Delacour?" another asked, eyes wide with disbelief.

Harry felt a mixture of embarrassment and pride wash over him. He was used to being the center of attention, but this felt different. He had finally carved out a space for himself beyond the expectations of others, and it felt good.

"Looks like you're a celebrity again," Ron said, elbowing him playfully. "Fleur's got you wrapped around her finger."

"Yeah, well, I'm not the only one," Harry replied, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Have you seen the way she makes everyone swoon?"

The trio continued their light-hearted banter as they made their way to the Great Hall for lunch. The scent of delicious food wafted through the air, pulling them into the warm atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. As they sat down, Harry took a moment to appreciate the camaraderie around him—their laughter, their shared experiences.

As they began to eat, Hermione shifted the conversation. "So, Harry, what's the plan with the Weasley twins? I'm curious about how you envision their shop working out."

Harry leaned back, contemplating. "I see it as a space where creativity can thrive. If they can tap into the market with innovative products, it could really take off. I want to give them the chance to show what they can do."

"But what about the risks?" Hermione asked, her eyes serious. "You're investing a lot of money without any guarantees."

"True, but think about it. If their products are as good as I believe they can be, they could attract not just students but adults too—Aurors, Hit-wizards. Imagine the kind of clientele they could bring in if they could showcase their work in Diagon Alley!" Harry's voice rose with enthusiasm.

"That does sound brilliant, but I still think you should tread carefully," Hermione replied, her voice softening. "Just don't forget about the other things happening around you. The war isn't over, Harry, and we need to be prepared."

Harry nodded, acknowledging her concerns. "I know, and I appreciate you looking out for me. But I can't live my life in fear, waiting for the next attack. I need to find some balance between fighting and living."

The conversation shifted as they finished their meal, but the weight of their realities lingered in the air. After lunch, Harry felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was determined to support the twins, keep his friendships intact, and navigate the complexities of his new relationships. He would find a way to balance it all, one step at a time.

As they exited the Great Hall, Harry caught sight of Daphne across the corridor, her vibrant hair catching the light. She was laughing with a group of friends, and he felt a warmth spread through him at the sight. In that moment, he realized that amidst the chaos, there were still moments of joy waiting to be seized.

"Hey, I'll catch you two later," Harry said, nodding toward Ron and Hermione. "I want to talk to Daphne for a bit."

Ron raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Good luck, mate. Just remember to keep your cool around the Slytherin princess."

Harry rolled his eyes but couldn't help the smile that crept onto his face. "I think I can manage."

As he approached Daphne, the laughter and chatter of the hallway faded into the background, leaving just the two of them in that moment.

"Hey," he said, a bit shyly.

"Hey, yourself," Daphne replied, her smile brightening as she turned to him. "You seemed deep in thought earlier. Everything alright?"

"Yeah, just figuring some things out," Harry replied, leaning against the wall beside her. "How about you? You looked like you were having fun."

"I was," she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "But I'm even more curious about what you and the twins are cooking up. Is it true that you're helping them start a joke shop?"

Harry chuckled, feeling a bit of pride swell in his chest. "Yeah, I am. I think they've got some brilliant ideas, and I want to help them bring it to life."

Daphne raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? That sounds ambitious. I didn't take you for the entrepreneurial type."

"Neither did I, to be honest," Harry admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "But it feels good to support them. I want to help them succeed."

Daphne's expression softened, and Harry felt a connection spark between them. "You're really stepping into your role, aren't you? I admire that. Not many would take such risks."

"Thanks," he said, feeling a bit bashful under her gaze. "I think it's important to take chances, especially when it comes to the people you care about."

Daphne smiled at him, a glint of admiration in her eyes. "You're different, Harry. In a good way. And I think you're going to do great things."

He felt a warmth wash over him at her words, and for a moment, everything else faded away. It was just them, two souls navigating their paths through a world filled with uncertainty.

"Let's make sure to catch up later," Harry suggested, wanting to hold onto this moment. "I could use your insight on a few things."

"I'd like that," Daphne replied, her smile widening. "Just don't forget about your other commitments."

"I won't," Harry promised, feeling a sense of determination swell within him. "I'll find the balance. I promise."

As they exchanged a few more words, the sound of laughter and conversation began to rise again, and Harry felt a renewed sense of hope. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but he knew he wouldn't have to face them alone. With his friends and newfound relationships, he was ready to embrace whatever the future held.

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