Time and Sacrifice: Book 1

Warmth enveloped Harry from all around, trying to lull his slowly waking mind back to sleep. Back to the comfort and safety that surrounded him on all sides. Cocooned in more than just blankets, an arm was wrapped around him as he was pressed firmly, tenderly to a strong chest. His ear was pressed against the steady beat of a heart, the back of his head cradled in a strong, long-fingered hand. His left arm was thrown over the form holding him, that hand being held by another. Another hand was gently wrapped around his ankle. 

Harry couldn't help but smile as he remembered last night.

When Professor Snape dropped him off with his family, he nearly ran away before the door to their quarters opened all the way in the face of the three worried men. As he briskly walked away, Harry could hear him mumble something about too many emotions today.

The form of the dark professor disappeared and was replaced by the robes of his father as he was crushed into what would have been a bone-crushing hug if his father had not remained vigilant about Harry’s injuries. Once his father let go, Remus and Regulus were quick to follow his father's actions. 

After that, all three refused to let Harry out of their sight and decided that they would make full use of the couch. Harry had laid down on his side with his back pressed against the back of the couch. Somehow, and Harry wasn't entirely sure how, Regulus squeezed in next to him, his back facing the rest of the room. He wrapped an arm around Harry, holding him unyieldingly yet tenderly. Their heads rested in Sirius' lap as he sat side saddle on the couch, his upper body curved towards them resting against the couch's backrest. Remus mirrored Sirius' position, both his and Regulus' feet resting on the werewolf’s lap. 

Usually, Harry would have felt crowded, claustrophobic, and trapped being surrounded. With the three who he was with now, he felt nothing but safe. 

Slowly, Harry opened his eyes, and the sight of inky black curls came into view. Somehow while they were sleeping, Regulus had brought him impossibly closer, slightly curling around him as if trying to protect Harry even in sleep. Carefully, Harry glanced up to look at his father who appeared as though he hadn't moved an inch in sleep. Next, Harry looked at Remus and struggled to keep laughter bubbling past his lips. 

With a hand still wrapped around Harry’s ankle, Remus was facing the opposite direction from when he had first fallen asleep. One leg was stretched out and propped up on the footstool, the other was thrown over the back of the couch.

"What is so funny, mon doux petit neveu?" A soft voice said, still scratchy from sleep. Harry looked at Regulus and saw his uncle's eyes were still closed but he had a small content smile on his face. 

"Remus." Harry said, sounding much as his young uncle had. 

Regulus peaked an eye open to look and the smile on his face turned more humorous before he huffed a light laugh, bringing Harry even closer. 

"Let the man rest, he has to deal with Blacks all day, cher neveu." His Uncle said as he lightly carded through Harry’s hair. 

"What does that mean?" Harry couldn't help but ask as he had noticed his uncle slips into another language.

"Hmmm?" Regulus hummed in question.

"What you said, that wasn't in English." Both of Regulus' eyes popped open.

"You mean, French?" There was a furrow between his uncle's brows as he looked at Harry incomprehensively.

"Oh, it's French?" Eyes of storm clouds widened, and Harry felt like he should've realized that after the Beauxbatons came to Hogwarts last year.

"How uncultured were those Muggles?" It is easy to hear the disgruntled disgust in the question.

"Such a snob." Sirius huffs a laugh in the wake of his little brother's question.

"Like you're one to talk." Regulus rolls his eyes at his brother.

"I am not a snob." His father says in mock outrage.

"Yes, you are." Remus said from his spot further down the couch. 

"Good morning." Harry said quickly before an argument could happen and he could see the knowing amusement in his uncle's eyes. 

"Good morning, cub." Remus said, breaking into a jaw-breaking yawn right after. 

"Morning, pup." His father said running his hand through Harry’s hair. Harry couldn't help but lean further into the touch. 

"I think it's time to get up and ready." Harry said after a few moments of basking in the others' presence.

"No." The sullen reply came from Regulus as he held tighter to Harry.

"Still so cuddly." His father said fondly as he started running his fingers through his brother's black curls. 

"But Andie will be here in a few minutes to check on Harry. You do want to make sure Harry is alright, don't you?" Barely a second after his father asked that question Regulus was standing and helping Harry up. 

"Go on, get ready Harry." Harry couldn't help but give an amused look to his father, who shrugged with a smirk on his face. 

“I was hoping to go to Gryffindor to see Fred before breakfast started.” Harry said, watching as his uncle pursed his lips and his father looked at his younger brother amusedly.

“Fred. He is a Weasley, is he not? Your boyfriend?” A pinched expression was more than pronounced on his uncle’s face at his second question.

Sirius’ shoulders were shaking in silent laughter and Remus’ gold eyes were full of amusement, a half-smile quirking the right side of his lips up.

“Yes, Fred is my boyfriend, and he is a Weasley. The Weasleys are a good family.” Harry couldn’t help but defend the red headed clan.

“I’m sure they are but I learned not to judge a person based on their family. I do not know the boy, nor do I know if he is worthy of you.” Harry couldn’t help the way his jaw dropped and the way his eyebrows rose to his hairline.

Sirius started cackling and Regulus gave his brother a dirty look. Turning back to Harry his uncle’s features softened immediately.

“I am not trying to disparage your boyfriend, but I am your uncle and wish to make sure that anyone who you decide to take an interest in is worthy of you. You are my family, my nephew. As such, I will do everything to make sure you are safe and happy.” Molten silver shone with love and earnestness. Harry felt his heart swell and his eyes water.

Any anger or annoyance that he had initially felt when his uncle was questioning Fred’s character quickly evaporates as it was not a slight against Fred. Rather, the the urge to protect Harry.

The only uncle Harry has ever known would laugh if he had his heart broken. If he didn’t beat Harry to death knowing it was by another boy.

Harry couldn’t help but give Regulus a tight, one-armed hug, which his uncle happily returned.

“I understand, but just so you know, Sirius approves of Fred.” Harry says into his uncle’s neck.

“That does not instill any confidence in me.” Regulus dead panned.

“Hey!” Sirius’ insulted voice cut in.

“Remus approves as well.” Harry continued.

“That does make me feel a bit better.” Sirius squawked in indignation at his brother’s words.

A deep put-upon sigh came out of Regulus as he broke the hug and looked into Harry’s eyes.

“Go get ready. If Andie says you are well enough, you can go see Fred. Although, I want you to know that I expect to meet him and spend time with him, properly, to determine if his intentions for you are well meaning.” There is a glint in his uncle’s eyes that does not resonate with the young man he has come to know so far. Harry was quickly reminded that his uncle is a Black, and the reputation all Blacks have.

Luckily for Harry, when Andromeda came and checked him over, she was happy with his progress and determined him well enough to walk around on his own. Which Harry immediately then made his way out of the dungeons set on seeing Fred. He needed to reassure himself that the boy he loved with all his heart was alive. He needed to feel the other boy's strong arms wrapped around him as he basked in his boyfriend's warmth and breathed in his scent. Harry needed to remind himself that his Fred was alive before he heard for himself what he already knew. Before he heard what would've broken his future self to set about Sacrificing himself, bending time, and setting a course to change history. 

Soon, people will be up and heading to the Great Hall to have breakfast and start the day. Harry wanted to see Fred before the rest of the castle came to life. He wanted a moment just for them. 

When he reached the Entrance Hall, Harry was pulled from his thoughts and stopped dead in his tracks. It was surreal, seeing the bulky form of his Muggle cousin talking to one of the many portraits that decorated the Hall. Harry doesn't know how long he stood there staring, but Dudley must have felt eyes on him, for he turned around and quickly caught Harry's gaze. 

To make things even odder, Dudley gave him a small, shy, hesitant smile and an awkward wave. Harry waved back and was pretty sure he was just as awkward. Making his way closer to his cousin, Harry stopped when he was a few feet away from the bigger boy.  

"Good morning," Dudley said, and Harry realized it was the first time his cousin had ever said those words to him.  

"Good morning," Harry replied, at a complete loss for what else to say. 

"Thank you, Lady Lillibeth. I appreciate you answering my questions." Dudley said surprisingly kindly to the portrait who curtsied and walked off. 

"I was talking to Lady Lillibeth. She was telling me a bit about the school. She said if I have any questions at all, not to be afraid to ask any of the portraits. It's odd that the paintings can talk and move, but I guess it's also helpful." His cousin said, and Harry was trying to wrap his head around the strangeness of having his cousin here. His cousin who is being surprisingly cordial to Harry while also appreciating some of what Magick has to offer without covering his rear. 

"Yeah, they can be helpful. Sometimes, though, they can be inconvenient." Harry replied amicably. At his cousin’s confused face, he decided to elaborate.

"To get into Gryffindor House, you have to give a password to the Guardian, which is a painting. If she's not there, then you'll be waiting outside until she either comes back or someone else leaves the Common Room. When you are trying to sneak back in after curfew, it can be more than inconvenient and nerve-wracking." Dudley huffed and laughed.

"And how often has that happened to you?" His cousin asked with a grin. 

"Too many," Harry said with a laugh of his own.

Harry realized it was the first time that Dudley and he had laughed together. Usually, it was Dudley who always laughed at him cruelly. 

"So, where are your parents?" Harry asked and watched as Dudley immediately sobered. 

"I left the rooms we were given. I had to get out of there. They've done nothing but yell and complain." There was a deep scowl on the bigger boy's face. 

Dudley balled his hands into fists and stuffed them into his pockets. His shoulders were tense and hunched as he had his eyes glued to the floor. 

"We've done nothing but argue since we found out we had to come here." Harry knew he must have lost his eyebrows with how shocked he was by Dudley's words and how it seemed to affect his cousin. 

"When we were told that we were to come here...well, you can guess they weren't happy. They would've put up a bigger fight on leaving, but you have some terrifying people who are very protective of you." Harry couldn't help the small smile at his cousin’s words. Thinking of his father, Remus, and of course, Andromeda, he couldn't help but agree. 

"I'm happy you have them." The words were quiet, and for a moment, Harry thought he had imagined them. 

Seeing the earnestness and guilt in Dudley's eyes showed Harry that he hadn't imagined them at all. 

"You have found a family. Built one from the ground up. I'm happy you have that now. God knows we were never a family to you." There was deep shame carved into his cousin's thick features and remorse filling his eyes. 

Harry felt his throat close, and tears prickle his eyes as it seemed another dream that he had not dreamt of for so very long seemed to be coming true. 

"I never treated you like family. I was cruel to you. Nasty, horrible. I was never what a cousin should have been." The many times he felt pain at his cousin's hands and fists flashed across his mind. The many bouts of loneliness and fear as his cousin chased away any possible friends only to torment him alongside his gang of friends. 

"Yet, you didn't hesitate, not even for a moment, to save me from those things during the summer." There was that haunted look that seems to always stay with you if you've had the misfortune of crossing paths with Dementors lurking in Dudley's eyes. 

Blinking his eyes and shaking his head, trying to rid himself of the torment and hopelessness that comes from remembering the horrid creatures, Dudley focused his blue eyes on Harry’s green.

"You were more of a cousin, more family to me in that one moment than I have ever been to you. You saved me when you had every reason not to." The words were honest, and heartfelt. The depth of his cousin’s emotions surprised Harry.

"I don't understand how it works, but it seems you have a dad now. I mean, another dad who's alive, loves you and cares about you. That...that makes me happy that you have that now. You deserve a family that will love and be there for you." Dudley's words soothed old wounds that had been there for as long as Harry could remember. They didn't completely erase or nullify all the mistreatment Harry endured at the hands of his cousin, but they made those memories a little more bearable. 

"You'll probably stay with him now. I mean, I don't see why you wouldn't. If it were between living with us and living with someone who will fight literal zombies for you, well, it doesn't seem like much of a choice." Harry couldn't help the slight bubble of amusement he felt at that. He remembered how when they were eight, his cousin demanded to get a new video game with zombies. That night and quite a few after, Dudley was too scared to sleep alone.

Apparently, Dudley saw his amusement and gave a roll of his eyes before continuing seriously.

"But I heard talk about blood wards, and how that's the reason why you came to stay with us when you were a baby. Because our moms shared blood, and something about a sacrifice. I don't know what all of that means but I want you to know that if you still need that protection, if I could be the one to help since your mom was my aunt, I'll do whatever I can." Harry was floored by Dudley's words, even more so by the sentiment and emotion they carried. Sincerity, genuineness, and steel were clear for Harry to hear.

"It's the least I could do. It's about time I started being a cousin. That I start treating you like the family you've always been. I'm sorry it's taken me this long to realize that. I'm sorry for everything I've done. I don't expect you to forgive me, and I won't ask you too either. That's something I must earn. But I would like the opportunity to try to earn your forgiveness if I can. Be better than what I was." Dudley finished as he stared into Harry's eyes.

Never would Harry have thought this day would come. Part of him wanted to remain bitter, to remain angry. All the times he was hurt, belittled, and felt so very alone, it rattled around in his heart and mind. There was a part of him that wanted to deny Dudley this. To deny him a chance of redemption. 

There were no redeeming qualities in Harry for the Dursleys. 

Harry didn't want to be like them. He was tired of being angry, tired of feeling bitter and alone. As much as that part of him wanted to deny Dudley this, a much larger, stronger part of him longed for this second chance, too. 

"If you want, you can sit with me during breakfast. I can introduce you to everyone." Harry watched as a small, yet bright smile spread across Dudley's face. 

"I'd love to." Dudley responded, and Harry couldn't help but smile a small smile of his own. 

"I can meet you inside the Great Hall in a few. I wanted to see Fred before the day, and the readings started." Harry said, still feeling the insistent urge to see his boyfriend grow by the second. 

"Fred is one of the redheaded twins, isn't he? He's your boyfriend?" Dudley asked hesitantly, and Harry felt his heart stop. 

Uncle Vernon wasn't shy about letting his...dislike of non-traditional relationships be known. Or what should happen to people of that...perversion. He cringed internally, remembering some of his uncle's rantings and ravings. 

It seems that his thoughts weren't his alone, for Dudley's eyes widened so much so that he reminded Harry a bit of Dobby. 

"I'm not judging. It's fine with me, not that it should matter. I know my dad...I don't think the same as him. It's just... he's not going to bring those candies, is he? The ones from a couple of summers ago." Dudley said quickly seeing what must have been running through Harry’s mind, only to finish nervously in remembrance of his tongue growing several feet two summers past. 

Quickly regaining the ability to breathe when he realized he wasn't about to face any backlash for being in a relationship with Fred from his cousin, Harry jerkily nodded his head. 

"Yeah, he is." Harry couldn't help but smile at saying Fred was his boyfriend. 

"And you don't have to worry about the candies. Today...well, I don't think today will be a day either Fred or George will be playing any pranks." Most of the jokes and pranks that Fred and George play are all in good fun and to lighten the mood. With what the first reading will hold today, it will be too emotional for either of them to try anything. 

"He makes you happy. They all do." Dudley said as he watched Harry. 

"They do." There was no denying it for Harry, his boyfriend, his friends, and his family. Even with things as they've been for the past few months, Harry's been lucky to have them all. 

"They're going to hate me. When they read about your time with us. I wouldn't blame them either." His cousin had a forlorn expression on his face. It made resolve grow within Harry. 

"They'll also see that you were a child following his parents' lead. They'll see how, despite how you were raised, you're trying to change." Harry knows that they won't be happy hearing about his life at the Dursleys, but most of them will understand that Dudley didn't have the best moral compass growing up. For Fred, Ron, and Ginny, Harry just hoped that if he talked to them, they'd hold back any contempt. Especially Fred. 

Harry saw a smile spread across Dudley's face at his words. Suddenly, his cousin’s entire expression morphed into shocked horror as his eyes widened dramatically. 

Harry's ribs erupted in pain as he felt something bulldoze into his side, sending him crashing to the floor. The next moment, his ears started ringing, and his vision turned white as his head hit hard against the stone floor. When he was finally able to see once more, the enraged face of his Uncle Vernon filled his vision. 

Uncle Vernon's face was purple in rage. He could see his uncle's mouth moving, most likely yelling obscenities, but Harry couldn't hear them. All he could hear was the ringing in his ears from the impact his head had taken on the ground. Unfortunately, the ringing didn't stop Harry from feeling the pain of fists raining down on him. 

As quickly as his uncle appeared, he quickly disappeared as a large heavy form knocked into the enormous man's side, making him crash to the floor a way away from Harry. 

"I SAID LEAVE HIM ALONE!" Harry heard a voice that sounded like his cousin yelling furiously. 

"I'LL KILL HIM! YOU HEAR ME?! I'LL KILL HIM!!!" Harry couldn't move his head to see what was going on, but the next second, he felt a hand wrap painfully around his ankle and try to drag him closer to whoever it belonged to. 

Realizing that nothing good would happen if the person got a hold of him, Harry kicked out blindly and heard a 'crunch' followed by a painful howl. 

"MY NOSE! THE LITTLE FAGGOT BROKE MY NOSE! I'LL BREAK HIS NECK!" His uncle lunged into his vision once more, making a grab for Harry's neck.

Before the large beefy fingers could wrap around him, Dudley appeared behind his father and wrenched his father's arms behind his back. Further away Harry could hear people yelling his name as distant footsteps raced as quickly as they could. 

Harry watched as his uncle and cousin struggled with each other. Suddenly, Dudley looked to the side before he dived to the side away from his father and Harry. Less than a second later, his uncle was sent flying and out of Harry’s vision. 

The next moment his vision was full of blazing blue eyes and the most amazing shade of red hair. 

"Harry," Fred said his name like a sweet prayer, and Harry couldn't help but smile at his boyfriend. His boyfriend gently held the back of his head, blue eyes full of tenderness and concern.

"I wanted to see you. This isn't how I planned it." Harry said and attempted a smile before wincing as a sharp pain stabbed through his skull. 

"You're plans never seem to work out the way you hope but I'm here." Fred said as he held Harry’s head still and placed a kiss on his forehead. Harry wished to lean more into it, but Fred's grip was gentle yet unyielding, not allowing Harry to move even a fraction. 

"Harry, Merlin, oh Harry!" Sirius' face appeared right next to Fred's. His father's eyes were wide with poorly concealed worry as his hands hovered over his head, too scared to touch. 

"Move." A soft demanding voice came from behind Sirius. 

It seemed his father took too long to follow the voice's command for he was quickly shoved to the side with a bump from a hip. Harry watched as the form of Narcissa Malfoy came into view. 

"Let me take a look at you, Mr. Potter." Narcissa said as she started waving her wand over him. 

"He'll be alright, won't he Cissa?" Sirius asked frantically. 

"I'm fine, Siri. My head just hurts a bit." There were several scoffs and groans of despair. 

"If I wasn't already positive that he was your son, this would have definitely clued me into that fact." It was strange seeing a woman who seemed to be the epitome of what a Lady is grumble as she rolled her eyes. 

"Black, let Cissa take care of your son. I could use your assistance over here." Harry heard what he thought was Lucius Malfoy who sounded as if he was in the midst of a struggle. 

"My son needs me. I'm not going anywhere." His father's voice was a harsh hiss. Not even bothering to look at his cousin's husband. 

"Fine... then you can watch as your wolf...is shipped off to Azkaban...for killing...a Muggle." Mr. Malfoy said in grunts. 

"Stun him then." Sirius said, still not taking his eyes off Harry. 

"I would...if I wasn't...trying...to keep your bother...out...right now." The elder Malfoy made a noise of annoyance and pain. 

"Regulus, will you stop that?! Ow! Get off my hair!" Sirius turned to look at where the voice of Lucius Malfoy came from. A peculiar expression crossed his father's face. His face already etched with worry, now contained traces of anger, amusement, satisfaction, and frustration. 

Harry tried to move his head a bit to get a look at what his father was seeing. Fred held his head still, effectively stopping him. 

Harry couldn't help but pout at his boyfriend. 

Narcissa gave a long-suffering sigh. 

"Siri." Harry called his father, who immediately turned to look at him. 

"Please, don't let Remus kill Uncle Vernon. I don't have another Time-Turner on me at the moment." Harry saw as his father's eyes grew hesitant and Narcissa froze her movements for a split second. 

"Go, Sirius. I got him." Fred said and Sirius gave his boyfriend a long look before giving a sharp nod. Kissing Harry’s head, a moment later Sirius was making his way out of Harry’s vision. 

"As much as the swine deserves it, I would rather you not take my cell in Azkaban, Remus. It may be vacant but it's still mine. It's bad enough that you always stole my bed in Gryffindor Tower. HEY, DON’T YOU IGNORE ME!" Hearing his father, Harry really wanted to look at what was going on but stopped at the looks on Narcissa's and Fred's faces. 

Harry lay on the ground as Narcissa waved her wand over him. The movements were complex and long, yet sure and steady. They were done fluidly with precision, showcasing the skill of the pale blonde woman. More impressive were the long incantations that accompanied Narcissa's movements. They sounded more like a recitation of an epic poem in an ancient language that no one understood, a melody that awed its audience with its cadence and beauty. 

Closing his eyes Harry let the sound wash over him and concentrated on the feeling of Fred's thumb rubbing soothing circles on his hand. The pain that once more encompassed his body dulled and seemed less significant with the knowledge that Fred was there by his side. The feeling of love rolled off Fred in waves and washed over Harry, soothing and dulling the painful blows and words from his uncle. 

While letting his thoughts wander, Harry couldn't help but wonder what everyone would think of him when the readings began. People constantly talk about Harry, his strengths, and his weaknesses. Some believed that his strength lay in his Magick. That he had to be Magically strong to have beaten Voldemort that Halloween night. Or maybe his strength lay in the fact he was what many would think is a true Gryffindor; brave, willing to weather any storm, and fight any foe. Others talked about his weakness. His lack of forethought, of self-preservation. According to the Daily Prophet, his lying and needing to be the center of attention.

In reality, both his strength and weakness were one and the same. 

Well, the same person. 

Fred. 

He loved his friends. He loved the family he had created. Merlin, did he love Sirius, his father.

Fred was different though. 

The first time Fred laid eyes on him he didn't see the Boy Who Lived, he didn't see a freak. Fred was the first person to see him, to see Harry. 

Harry would never forget that first day at Kings Cross Station. The fear, the desperation he felt was so overwhelming he nearly choked on it. The anxiety he felt at not being able to find Platform 9 ¾, of missing the train and losing the chance to create a better life for himself. He recalls the way his eyes burned as he held his tears at bay clutching onto the trolley, trying to find the place that would bring him to his new life. 

The sheer relief he felt as he heard a shout about the Platform and Muggles from a group of redheads. Harry watched and listened as the Weasleys interacted with each other. The way Mrs. Weasley bustled them all, Ron's excited yet anxious gangly form, Ginny bouncing on her toes, Fred and George's playfulness, and Percy's pride. 

Prominently, Harry remembered how his humor at the twins' antics was quickly replaced with a feeling he had never experienced before as Fred gave him a sweet smile and wink before disappearing into the barrier. For the first time in his life, Harry's stomach flipped. He felt as if a whole conservatory of butterflies were housed in his stomach. His heartbeat quickened, and he felt his cheeks burn bright red. That feeling only intensified as both Fred and George came to help him with his trunk once he got on the platform and Harry was able to truly see how blue and beautiful Fred's eyes were up close. 

He remembers being enthralled by the other boy. Honestly, he still is and always will be. Although, back then, it was the first time another person had captivated him so much. The way his crimson hair played in the light like fireworks and stars, a beacon illuminating and showing Harry home. Freckles that dotted his face were more numerous and breathtaking than the constellations of stars that bring light to the night. A crooked smile that made Harry’s heart quicken and his face burn as it enhanced the handsome features of the older boy. With eyes so blue, Harry was enthralled and allured so much that he was unable to escape their hold, nor did he wish to do so. They radiated kindness, acceptance, protection, and mischief in abundance. It lit a fire within Harry, filling him with an eternal source of warmth. 

Even after Fred found out who he was, Harry was always just Harry to the older boy. With Fred, he was truly seen for the first time. 

For all his life Harry lived with the Dursleys, being treated worse than a House Elf and shoved into the cupboard under the stairs like a dirty secret out of sight. Then he entered the Magical World and was thrust into the limelight, being put under constant scrutiny of a public that could shift from hailing him as a savior for supposedly vanquishing Voldemort, to despising him for one reason or another on any given day. Harry went from being an unwanted orphan boy whose blood relatives would have preferred never to have laid eyes on him, to being gawked at by the masses. 

Harry was either Freak, unwanted and unloved, or The Boy Who Lived, famous for a scar. 

That day at Kings Cross Station when Fred's eyes caught his was the first time someone saw neither. Those blue eyes that constantly held Harry’s attention were the first time Harry ever felt seen. It was the first time that Harry was truly just Harry.

Since that day Fred has been the source of much of his strength. It was the way the older boy immediately made him feel welcomed and accepted. Constantly providing Harry with unconditional support and protection. Without judgment, Fred stood unflappable in the chaos that is Harry’s life. A steady and unmovable presence that Harry could always trust and depend on. As the years went on, the strength that Fred provided grew and blossomed into something that Harry cherished dearly. The intensity of that increased exponentially when their relationship surpassed friendship and moved to romantic. Something that Harry never believed he could have, nor deserved to have.

Yet, as Fred became the source of his strength, he also became Harry’s weakness. At first, it was small things, fear of disappointing the older boy if he didn’t catch the Snitch, self-consciousness about making a fool out of himself in front of him. As time wore on, as Harry’s feelings for Fred deepened, and he started to understand what the older redhead truly meant to him, the weakness that Fred created within him further expanded. Anxiety and despair at the thought that one day Fred would find out that being with Harry was too much work, that Harry wasn’t worth it. Terror and panic choking him awake at night to thoughts of Fred being used against him, of being hurt to get to Harry by Voldemort or his Death Eaters. Crippling fear at the thought of something happening to the boy he loves because of Harry, because he stayed by Harry’s side.

Fred was everything to Harry.

Now, Harry was going to have what he already knew confirmed to him. He was going to be forced to hear about how the love of his life would have died.

Merlin, he didn’t want to. Even now he feels as though his heart is being ripped out of his chest and torn in front of him.

Harry felt the pads of Fred’s finger gently run over his cheek and wanted nothing more than to lean further into the soft caress.

All he wanted was to spend some time together alone with Fred. To be held in his arms and forget about the rest of the world.

“Well, when you’re all healed up, we’ll sneak off and do just that.” Fred’s voice floated above him, and Harry peaked an eye open.

The amount of love etched into the other boy’s face and eyes took Harry’s breath away.

He wondered how much he had spoken out loud without realizing it. 

“What about the reading?” Harry questioned because he knew they all would need to be there for the reading to start.

“They can wait. It’s not like anyone has anywhere they need to be. We’re in a time bubble.” His boyfriend said simply.

“People aren’t going to be happy if they have to wait for us.” Harry knew his protest was weak at best. He knew that Fred could care less about what other people think, especially at the expense of those he loves and cares for.

“I really couldn’t care less about other people. You, Harry, are my main concern. If what you want is time alone, then Merlin, that is what I will give you. Besides, there’s nothing that I want more than to hold you in my arms.” Fred said as he gently traced his finger along Harry’s face as if he were memorizing the lines and contours of it.

Harry closed his eyes, forgetting the pain he felt and allowing the bliss of Fred’s touch to wash over him.

“So, it’s settled. When you're healed up, we’ll nick away and go to the Room for a bit.” Fred said decidedly and Harry didn’t have the strength to fight him. Even if he did, he wasn’t inclined to.

“Can we go to the Astronomy Tower? I could use the fresh air too.” Harry asked as he opened his eyes and looked into the blue eyes that reminded him of a clear sky, and the sense of freedom and belonging it gave him.

“Astronomy Tower it is. Whatever you want.” Fred said with a sweet kiss on his forehead.

Before Harry could respond several new voices appeared, reminding Harry that it wasn't just him and Fred present. They joined the cacophony of chaos around him in the Entrance Hall. Narcissa sharply turned her head to the new voices and Harry saw as relief washed over her expression. 

"Andie! Here! I need you!" Narcissa shouted for her older sister. 

"Dora, help with Remus! If anyone could get him to calm down, it would be you." Andromeda ordered as Harry heard her footfalls getting closer to him. 

Only a second passed before the beautiful, sharp, worried features of Andromeda filled Harry’s vision. Andromeda immediately knelt next to her sister by Harry’s side, her eyes taking in Harry's form. Eyes like molten silver widened when they landed on the spot where his head lay on stone.  

"What happened?" Andromeda's question was more like a demand. 

"It was my father." Dudley said and Harry was surprised to hear the worry in his cousin's voice. 

"He attacked Harry, rammed into his side, sending him crashing to the floor. I couldn't stop him. It happened too fast. I'm sorry." Usually, Harry getting hurt would have sent his cousin laughing but now anxiety and guilt coated his explanation. 

"Not your fault Dud, you were just as shocked as I was. Besides, you managed to get him off me and hold him back." Harry wanted to try to ease a bit of his cousin’s guilt. 

"Yeah, it gave me the chance to send the tub of lard flying through the air and away from Harry. I saw the wound and knew that he shouldn't try to move, or it could risk possibly hurting him more. That's when the others came running in, and Lady Malfoy came to help Harry." Fred explained the rest as he held onto Harry. He knew the contact benefitted both of them. 

"I would have stabilized him if needed, but I can't pinpoint what exactly is wrong. All the scans that I have done have come back inconclusive as something is interfering with them." The frustration and worry seep slightly into Narcissa's voice and Harry is surprised to hear it as the entire time she has remained calm. 

"I would have brought him to Madame Pomfrey, but the wound is on the Occipital bone, right above the Nuchal Line." Andromeda's entire body froze at her younger sister's words. 

"Is that bad?" Harry asked as his eyes flickered back and forth between the sisters. 

He saw the way both sisters looked at each other and knew that they were planning to mince their words, say whatever would worry Harry less.

"Don't lie to me, I'll find out the truth eventually. If you lie, I'll trust you less." A surprised look spread across Narcissa's face. Harry didn't know if it was from him rudely cutting them off or if it was for the insinuation of him trusting her. Andromeda looked as if she expected nothing less from him. 

Both sisters nodded and it was Narcissa who started to explain. 

"The Occipital bone is the bone that rests directly on top of your spine, it is the base of your skull. The wound is in an area close to the Nuchal Line of the Occipital. This is where many muscles and ligaments of the neck and back attach to the skull. If you don't have any damage to your spine already, I'm worried about any possible damage that could happen if I move you. Even spinal injuries within the Magical World can be very problematic and delicate." Now Harry understood why no one wanted him to move. They were afraid that any movements made by him or if they moved him, that he'd end up paralyzed.

Now realizing what his current situation was, Harry couldn't help but gulp. 

"I can move my hands and feet if that means anything. I kicked my uncle and broke his nose." Harry recounted to Andromeda and Narcissa and saw as some of the tension in their bodies, and tightness around their eyes eased slightly. 

"That's very good Mr. Potter." A faint smile crossed Narcissa's face. 

"Harry." He said quickly and watched as a pale eyebrow raised slightly in question. 

"Call me, Harry. I mean between yesterday and now; it'll be odd standing on formality." The words were hurried and self-conscious. 

They made the beautiful grey eyes soften and shine brighter than the star his father is named after. 

"Of course, Harry." Narcissa gave him a smile making her look even more beautiful. 

Next to her, Andromeda had a matching smile.

Harry couldn't help but blush at the looks. 

Fred laughed and tried to hide it behind a cough. 

Harry tried to slap him, but Fred caught his hand and kissed it, giving Harry a dazzling smile. It was impossible for the emerald-eyed boy not to be mesmerized by the hypnotic and breathtaking pools of blue. 

"...rry...Harry." Harry blinked repeatedly and flickered his eyes to look at where the voice came from saying his name. 

The amused and exasperated faces of Andromeda and Narcissa came into focus.

"Getting lost in a pair of pretty blue eyes; you are your father's son." There was a fondness held in Andromeda's quiet words. 

"I'm happy to see that you're able to move your arms. That's a very encouraging sign. Now tell me, do you have any numbness or tingling sensations anywhere?" Andromeda asked a second later and Harry took careful stock of everything he was feeling. 

"No, none." Harry said. In all honesty, he just felt like a big bruise with tender ribs. 

"Good, that's an extremely good sign then." Narcissa breathed out a relieved breath. 

"Sirius informed me that the broken arm Harry sustained from the Inferi was significant enough that the bones had to be vanished and regrown. The use of Skelegrow last night is what is interfering with your scans, Cissa. I created a spell to get around that." Andromeda said and Narcissa raised an eyebrow in question. 

"My Nymphadora has always been prone to gravity. She would be in the midst of healing from one injury when she'd get hurt again. It became a necessity for me to create scanning and healing spells that wouldn't interfere with ongoing healing." The exasperation in Andromeda's voice as she looked towards the heavens in remembrance of raising her accident-prone daughter made Harry crack a smile. 

"Thank Merlin for Tonks' ability to trip on air." Fred muttered. 

Andromeda pinches the bridge of her nose, while Narcissa snorted a laugh at his words. 

Before anyone said anything else, Andromeda picked her wand up and started moving it in a complex motion that made Harry dizzy to look at. Closing his eyes to keep the dizziness at bay, Harry was surprised to realize that the spell was being cast non-verbally. So far, all the healing spells ever performed on his person have been verbal. It made Harry wonder just how powerful Andromeda was to not only have been able to create her own spell, but to be able to perform it non-verbally. 

Harry watched Andromeda as she waved her wand, intense concentration and focus lining her exquisite and graceful features. He wasn't sure how long it had taken for the scan to be completed but saw the moment Andromeda knew the results. 

Going by the relieved and blinding smile on her face, Harry figured it was good news. 

"No damage whatsoever to the skull, it's completely intact. No swelling of the brain either." Fred kissed his forehead reverently at Andromeda's words. 

"Thank, Merlin. I always knew you had a thick skull." Fred's voice was slightly shaking as he held tight to Harry’s hand. Harry couldn't help but squeeze back, knowing the older boy had stayed calm and collected during the whole ordeal even though he must have been filled with panic and terror. 

If Harry saw Fred in his current position, he would be consumed with fear.

"Yes, I do believe Mr. Weasley is right, thank Merlin, and Mother Magick too." Narcissa said genuinely. 

Suddenly, the faces of the others appeared and surrounded Harry. Sirius' eyes and face still screamed with worry for Harry, but there was a flicker of amusement in his eyes when his father glanced at Remus. Remus too held deep concern within him, but instead of the anger he expected to see as well, there was a slight dazed look in his eyes along with a very flustered face. Tonks, like the others looked worried but there was a smugness about her that made Harry curious. Ted looked between his daughter and Remus, a mixture of exasperation and fondness shining in his eyes next to his concern for Harry. Amelia had a grip on the scruff of Regulus' neck. Regulus appeared extremely disgruntled until he took sight of Harry. His countenance changed to that of extreme guilt. Mr. Malfoy looked as though he had fought nine rounds with a troll as he glared at Regulus who completely ignored him. 

"Andie, Cissa, will Harry be alright? What's wrong? Is it anything serious? He'll be alright, won't he? I mean of course he's going to be alright. He must. I mean..." His father spoke rapidly, reminding Harry of Hermione. 

Without meaning to Harry let out a snort of laughter and caught Fred's eye. 

"Hermione." Fred immediately understood what Harry meant and let out a chuckle. 

They both knew that their bushy haired friend would quickly throw questions at them when either excited to learn about something or extremely worried. 

"No, Harry. I'm not Hermione. I'm Sirius. I’m your father." His father said to him before he looked frantically at his cousins. 

"Is he alright? Does he not recognize me? Oh Merlin, no, please don't let that be it. I don't know what I would do if..." Luckily Narcissa cut Sirius off before he could spiral out of control. 

"Your son remembers you, Cousin. My fear of what his injury may have been was not so." Narcissa said calmly and Harry watched as his father fell to his knees in relief next to him, grabbing Harry’s free hand like a lifeline. 

"Indeed. His most serious injury is the open wound to his head, followed by two bruised ribs, and multiple contusions. Once we get him to the Hospital Wing, he'll be healed in no time." Andromeda explained. 

After that, Harry quickly found himself floating through the corridors to the Hospital Wing followed by the strangest and most unlikely procession of people behind him. Before he knew it, they had reached Madam Pomfrey’s domain. She immediately bustled Harry into one bed, and his uncle who was knocked out cold into another bed on the other side of the room. Madam Pomfrey checked and worked on his Uncle Vernon. Both Andromeda and Narcissa refused to look at nor help the man that had harmed him, and may have tried to kill him if the words his uncle spoke before Fred sent him flying were to be believed. 

Between the care of both Andromeda and Narcissa, along with the well-stocked potions of the infirmary, Harry lay in his bed completely healed but with orders to relax for a bit. 

Some of the others had left. Mr. Malfoy left, mumbling under his breath about seeing Professor Snape and having him see about teaching Regulus some manners as he rubbed his recently healed bruised jaw. Tonks and Ted had left to bring Dudley to his mother and inform her of everything that had happened and how her husband was currently healing and should be up soon. Amelia went to inform Dumbledore and the other professors about what had happened. 

Currently, it was Fred, his father, Remus, and Regulus at his bedside. Andromeda and Narcissa were a bit away, allowing them some space but close enough in case Harry needed them. 

"Oh cub, I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have acted like that. I should have focused on you and what you needed, not on my anger." Tears glistened in Remus' golden eyes reminding Harry of the hues of the setting sun dancing across the water's surface. 

"I apologize as well, mon cher neveu. Remus is right. We both should have been by your side. We should have held back our anger at the Muggle to be there for you." Regulus looked as though he was fighting to stop the tears from flowing as deep guilt and shame clouded his stormy eyes. 

"It's alright, really. To tell you the truth, it was nice having people angry on my behalf. No one ever noticed how the Dursleys treated me. They always got away with their cruelty." Harry couldn't help but confess in the face of Remus and Regulus' apologies. 

"Well, that will no longer be the case. They will never get another chance to harm you again." Sirius vowed; his eyes sharper than steel. The others all nodded at his words and Harry once more felt warmth spread through him in the face of their love and protection of him. 

Harry couldn't help but smile, especially as he recalled the bits he had overheard as Narcissa, and Andromeda were looking over him. Now that he thought about it, he was quite curious about something. 

"By the way, how was it that you two finally were pulled off of Uncle Vernon?" At his question his father's barking laugh rang out, bouncing off the walls. Remus turned a dizzying shade of red, and Regulus looked extremely put out and sheepish. 

When Sirius finally stopped laughing and wiped away his tears, he opened his mouth to explain, only to break off into giggles. 

Regulus rolled his eyes at his brother while Remus buried his face in his hands. 

"As we all know, Amelia is an extremely formidable and impressive witch. She decided to demonstrate that by disarming me and then hanging me by my cloak on the wall sconce." Harry's jaw dropped at Regulus' words, and he couldn't help but look at Fred. Upon hearing his uncle's words, they both burst into laughter. 

After they calmed down, they looked at Remus to find out about him. 

Unfortunately, Remus didn't see them as he still had his hands covering his face as he bowed his head. They did see though that his ears were as red as his face had been.

"Well for Moony here, little Dora became fed up. She grabbed his face and pulled him into a kiss. Moony stopped everything he was doing as his attention was completely focused on the beautiful Nymphadora Tonks." His father's voice was giddy, and Harry understood why. 

Remus didn't believe that due to him being a werewolf that anyone could have any romantic feelings towards him. That there was no one who would ever want to risk being with him. 

Tonks completely blew that belief to pieces in a matter of seconds. 

Remus released a muffled groan.

"Oh Moony, you need to lighten up and come to your senses. You have feelings for her, she has feelings for you. She's not willing to give up. Besides Andie and Ted approve, if they didn’t, you'd be a puddle already." Sirius said brightly. 

"I'm twelve years older than her Sirius. I'm broke, can't hold a job, and a werewolf. She deserves someone who can give her what she wants, someone who isn't a monster." The emotion in Remus' voice nearly broke Harry’s heart. 

"Do you find my daughter stupid, Remus?" Everyone's heads snapped to face Andromeda at her question.

At her raised eyebrow Harry knew she expected the man in question to answer her. 

"Of course not. She has an incredible mind and way of thinking that always leaves me amazed." Remus quickly said as the thought that he could ever think of Tonks as stupid should be a sin. 

"Then instead of deciding for her what you believe she deserves; you should allow her to decide for herself. The supposed misgivings you have about the two of you being together mean nothing to her. They are trivial compared to what she feels for you. Do not make my daughter feel as though what is in her heart is trivial." Andromeda gave Remus a long look before turning back to Narcissa and continuing their previous conversation. 

"Andie is right. Let Nymphie make her own decisions. Let yourself be happy. You both deserve that." Sirius said seriously. 

Remus heaved a huge sigh.

"I know. Your right. I just need...I just need time." Remus said as he massaged his temples. 

Harry understood Remus' reluctance, though. It wasn't just that he believed Tonks deserved more than him. It was the fact that he didn't believe he deserved Tonks. 

"Remus." Harry softly called the man's name. Emerald held gold for a moment until Harry was sure he had Remus' undivided attention. 

"We never know how long we can achieve happiness. It's wise to seize it while we can and enjoy it while it lasts. There's no telling when it will slip through our fingers and then we will only be left with regrets and what if's." Harry couldn't help but look at Fred. The love and happiness that Fred had given him had been a source of light, even in his darkest of days. The thought of losing that, of losing him...there was no way Harry would let that happen. 

Fred opened his mouth to say something but was cut off by the sound of the door slamming open. 

"Vernon! Oh, Vernon! What did they do to you?" His Aunt Petunia immediately ran to her husband's side. 

"As I had already informed you, Mrs. Dursley, your husband will be fine. We are just waiting for him to wake up, so he can be on his way." Ted said as if it wasn't the first or even tenth time he had said so.

"Yeah, trust me, he's lucky. He deserved a lot worse than what he got." Tonks piped up from behind her father. 

Harry watched as his aunt whirled around to look at the pink haired woman. 

"Worse?! How much worse could it get? We were forced here, to this freakish school with you freakish people! Zombies fell from the sky yesterday, and today my husband is in a hospital bed! Just how much worse could things get for us?!" The screeching of his aunt's voice pierced Harry’s head. Harry saw as both Sirius and Remus flinched at the sound of it. With their enhanced hearing Harry felt truly sorry for them. 

"Trust me, it could be a lot worse." Fred said with a dark and thunderous expression on his face. 

His Aunt Petunia turned sharply to look at them and snapped her mouth shut. Whatever vitriol she was about to spew was swallowed back at the look on Fred's face. 

"All your comforts could be taken away. The spacious, warm quarters you were graciously provided could be exchanged for a cramped, dark, cold broom closet with a couple of mattresses on the floor. Food that you would normally be given freely until you are stuffed can be taken away to the point that you are scrambling for scraps. Trust me, there are quite a few things I can think of to make this all worse for you. Or really, to give you what you only deserve." The look on Fred's face was terrifying, twisted into pure hate and loathing that would make any person feel as if they were a bug being scraped off a boot. 

"So, unless you truly want to find out just how much worse things could get for you, I'd advise you to sit down and shut up." Harry squeezed his boyfriend's hand, wanting to calm the older boy down. Fred's tense shoulders relaxed slightly as he held onto Harry’s hand.

"Fred!" Mrs. Weasley said as Harry noticed her, along with Mr. Weasley, Bill, Charlie, Dudley, Mr. Malfoy, Amelia, and the professors. They must have come in after his aunt stormed in without Harry noticing. 

"Mr. Weasley, even though I understand and appreciate your sentiment, I must tell you not to threaten the Muggles." said Professor McGonagall reluctantly.

"It's not a threat, Professor. It's a promise." Nearly everyone froze at the deadly seriousness of the resident jokester. 

"I like him. I approve." Regulus said brightly. 

"I understand emotions are high but we all must calm down for we have a long day ahead of us." Dumbledore said and Harry couldn't help but think that was a vast understatement. 

"Poppy, when do you believe Mr... oh, well that answers that question." Dumbledore started to ask before his Uncle Vernon started stirring from unconsciousness. 

A moment later his uncle's eyes snapped open, and he had a quick struggle before sitting up in the bed. Once up, he looked around wildly until his eyes landed on Harry and narrowed dangerously. 

"YOU! WHAT DID YOU DO?! I SWEAR YOU LI..." Uncle Vernon's rage and fury were quickly silenced.

Everyone quickly looked to see who cast and Harry saw the only person with their wand out was Madam Pomfrey.

"I wasn't confident that Mr. Dursley understood volume control and Mr. Potter is getting over a not insignificant head wound. The yelling would be counterproductive for both patients." Madam Pomfrey said in response to the looks she received. 

"Yes, I do believe that is a fair assessment, Poppy." Professor McGonagall gave a sniff of disdain as she looked scoldingly over the rims of her glasses at the Dursley adults. 

Harry couldn't help the quirk of his lips as his aunt and uncle wilted under his Head of House's gaze. After a moment she turned and looked at Harry. Her face immediately softened as concern etched itself onto her features. 

"How are you doing, Harry?" Professor McGonagall asked and Harry couldn't help but feel a swell of fondness for the Professor well up within him. 

"I'm fine, Professor." Harry said and watched as the Scotswoman raised a disbelieving eyebrow. 

The Professor wasn't the only one who looked unconvinced by his words. 

"Really, I am. Andromeda and Narcissa were able to fix me up in no time. I'm all healed up, no lasting damage. Even Madam Pomfrey said that I'm fully recovered." Harry said to their skeptical faces. 

"I also said that you need to take it easy and not overexert yourself. Your Magick is still not completely replenished after yesterday's events. The bones in your arm may have regrown but their density has not completely recovered back up to normal levels, so they are fragile. It is a lucky thing that they did not break in the attack." Madam Pomfrey said with a stern expression and narrowed eyes. 

Harry did the smart thing. He ducked his head and chose to remain silent. He did not want to say anything that might give the matron a reason to keep him in her domain. 

"Well, I for one am happy to hear that Harry has recovered as much as he has so far." Amelia said, walking over and giving Harry a kind smile that he returned. 

Her eyes flickered to his father, and she scanned his father's face. Lifting a hand, she lovingly caressed the side of Sirius' face, then ran her fingers soothingly through the dark tresses. Sirius leaned into the touch unwilling to deny himself the affection the woman he loved freely offered. Moments later, gray eyes, with more power than roiling and biblical storms, causing thrashing waves, sinking entire fleets, able to destroy entire civilizations, met pools of unyielding sapphire.

"Now is the matter of why he needed healing in the first place." Her earlier genuine care of Harry and love for his father was quickly replaced with steel as her back stood straight and her eyes became unwavering.

"What do you mean, Amelia?" Dumbledore asked and Harry felt his father let go of his hand as he abruptly stood up. Sirius' handsome features were twisted with more hate and loathing than he had ever looked at Professor Snape with. 

What was more, even when his father laid eyes on Pettigrew that night in the Shrieking Shack, his father didn't look as murderous and terrifying as he did now. 

His father took a menacing step forward but immediately stopped as Amelia placed a hand on his chest. Turning on her heels, Amelia looked at Dumbledore.

"Mr. Dursley attacked his nephew, a minor, causing serious harm that could have possibly caused Harry paralysis, if not death." Amelia’s eyes blazed with the intensity of a thousand suns. 

"I understand that his actions were amiss, but we must focus on the fact that all is well and that we have issues of greater importance that we must deal with. Besides, Mr. Dursley has been through quite a bit lately. Between being brought to a strange place and all that has happened since his arrival, it would cause anyone much duress." Betrayal unlike anything Harry has ever felt before carved itself into his heart at the Headmaster's words. 

Harry was aware that since the summer there has been a strain between himself and the Headmaster. It caused Harry to go from feeling dejected, to angry, to bitter. Still, he had always thought highly of Dumbledore. He thought the man would always do what was right. 

Now, the man that he had spent years admiring, who he had trusted without doubt had just defended his uncle right after he had attacked Harry. Dumbledore completely dismissed the pain that Uncle Vernon had just caused him. Made it seem as if it was insignificant, as if Harry was insignificant. More heart-wrenching, Dumbledore made an excuse for the pain his uncle caused him. As if it was Harry’s fault and he deserved it. 

Harry quickly swallowed the bile he felt rising in his throat as his eyes burned and his hands trembled. 

"Albus!" Professor McGonagall said aghast, looking at the Headmaster as if she had never seen him before. 

The others were in no better state than his Head of House, also showing outrage and disbelief. 

What hurts most is that even Mr. Malfoy looked incredulous and disturbed on Harry’s behalf. 

"Amiss? Issues of greater importance? You say he's been through a lot?" Sirius' voice was a deadly hiss, more terrifying than the Basilisk. 

"What about my son?! How about Harry and what he's been through?! What he has been through at the hands of that pathetic excuse of a Muggle and his wife?! I don't care if Voldemort is knocking on the door right now! This will not be swept under the rug! By Merlin, I will handle the man myself if I must! Damn you! Damn the consequences! Damn Azkaban!" A lion's roar held no candle to the ferocity and power of his father's voice. 

Harry could feel the Black Family Magick rise and swell within Sirius. The betrayal that had cut deep into his heart was soothed away by a feeling of unconditional love, and a vicious and instinctual need to protect. If Harry had his eyes opened and had been aware, he would have seen Andromeda, Tonks, and Narcissa moving closer as if they had been called on to be ready to protect him. 

As suddenly as the Magick had rose, a viper ready to strike and attack, it quickly calmed. Sleeping once more as though charmed to coil itself and relax. Harry opened his eyes and saw Amelia leaning into his father, her back pressed against his front, and his arm around her waist. Sirius' eyes were closed, and he was breathing hard. 

Dumbledore opened his mouth to say something, but Amelia held a hand, stopping him before a word was able to escape. A few moments passed before his father was able to calm his breathing. Once calm, he buried his face at the juncture of Amelia's neck and shoulder, taking a few deep breaths, as if allowing her scent to ground him. He kissed her neck before he pulled himself away and sat on Harry’s bed, nearly pulling Harry onto his lap. 

"No Dumbledore, this incident will not be ignored. It will not be excused as if it was just an unfortunate incident caused by someone being under duress. We may have other things of paramount importance to get through, but be that as it may, the attack on Harry is one of significant importance, and of grave concern." A surprising wave of emotion for the golden blonde woman washed through Harry. At her words, he couldn't help but feel warmth spread through him and fondness settle in his heart. 

"In fact, it concerns me greatly that an uncle, a man you entrusted to raise Harry, would try to harm him so grievously. Supposedly threatened him with death when under duress. I am curious, in fact, I am deeply disturbed by what this behavior indicates." Her words were blows and their meaning was cutting. Dumbledore looked as if he was in serious pain.

"How often has Mr. Dursley, and Mrs. Dursley by extension, harmed or at the very least mistreated Harry based on their moods? Why is it that Mr. Dursley felt that he had the right to harm his nephew for causing any supposed duress? Why is it that he seemingly felt no remorse when waking up to see his nephew in a hospital bed, put there because of his assault? Why is it that the thought of repercussions for his actions has not crossed his mind?" Amelia stepped closer to Dumbledore with each question asked until she stood barely three inches from him. 

The sunlight came in from the windows, bathing Amelia's gold hair in its rays, crowning her, giving her a halo. She looked like an avenging angel, giving a voice to the voiceless, fighting for those who had been made defenseless. Amelia stood, fierce and resolute, showering in the sun's light and staring into Dumbledore's eyes whose frame was cast in darkness as he stood in her shadow.

"Students may be pardoned for past misbehavior for breaking school rules, but any criminal activity that has occurred is subject to my judgment. While they may be needed for the readings, that does not mean they, the Dursleys, will get away with anything that could be considered criminal behavior.” Her words and demeanor were a power all their own, that of which Harry had never seen before.

"I suspect that in these readings we will be learning about Harry's upbringing. If there is anything that points to mistreatment, neglect, or abuse, they will be brought up on charges and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Their time here may be the last of their freedoms. But if one of them lays a finger on Harry, if they so much as threaten him, then I will not wait until we are out of here to do something about it." Everything about Amelia held nothing but promise and retribution.

"You want to create excuses for them, then you can be the one to ensure they remain treated as guests and not prisoners waiting to be brought to trial. One finger, one threat, one chance. I will not have; I will not tolerate children being hurt. Do I make myself clear?" Dumbledore nodded in answer to her question, eyes downcast and face full of guilt and regret. 

Harry couldn't help but think of the age-old question; what is mightier, the pen or the sword?

The answer was easy, it was Amelia Bones. The woman needed neither, nor did she even need her Magick to demonstrate how powerful she was.

It was no wonder his father was enchanted, so deeply in love with the woman. 

"Good." Amelia said succinctly, then turned and walked over to the ashen faced Dursleys. When she got to the foot of Uncle Vernon's bed Harry’s uncle opened his mouth, but Amelia raised a hand, and his uncle immediately snapped his mouth shut. 

"You will not talk you will listen. The only thing you will say is 'yes' or 'no' when I ask you a question. Other than that, this is not a conversation, it is me telling you what will be happening. Do you understand?" Amelia asked Harry’s aunt and uncle.

"Yes." Uncle Vernon barely was able to grit out through clenched teeth. 

"You are needed for these readings so you will be present. If at any point during the readings or in between them you threaten or harm Harry, you will lose all comforts and freedom within the castle and its grounds. Instead of the quarters you currently have, a cell will be prepared for you. You will only be allowed into your cell, the Great Hall for readings and meals, and the bathroom, if necessary. While out of your cell you will be handcuffed and chained so that you do not try anything else that could get you deeper into trouble. You will not be allowed to talk to your son either." At that last point Harry saw his uncle's face go through an array of different colors. 

"You can't do..." Uncle Vernon was cut off with a wave of Amelia's wand. 

"I believe I already told you; this is not a conversation. This is me telling you how things are going to be." If Amelia was a lesser woman her rebuke would have been snarling, but she was a woman far beyond that. Instead, her voice lowered to barely more than a whisper as her gaze stripped the flesh from Harry’s uncle and bore into his soul. 

In all honesty, Harry would rather face Voldemort any day of the week than ever have Amelia Bones look at him like that. His Uncle Vernon nodded his head so fast he was surprised it was still connected to his body. Meanwhile, his Aunt Petunia looked as though she had caught the reflection of the Basilisk's gaze, petrified and still a stone. 

Sirius signed dreamily as he looked adoringly at his fiancé. 

"Now, if during the readings there is any evidence of any neglect, mistreatment, or abuse by either of you directed at Harry, it will be noted by me. At the end of the readings Harry, his family, and myself will be having a conversation about whether or not you will be charged and put on trial. If found guilty, the appropriate punishment for your crimes against a child will be determined. Do I make myself clear?" A blue fire of righteous fury burned and consumed Harry’s aunt and uncle, demanding them to recognize the words of justice that had eluded them for so long. 

Harry couldn't help the overwhelming emotion that came over him for Amelia. Without even knowing him for a day, she had listened to him without disregarding him because of his age, she had believed him without prejudice, and she had defended him more than most people had. Furthermore, she did not turn a blind eye to the treatment Harry had received at the hands of his aunt and uncle and made it clear that she would not ignore anything else that might come to light. 

Harry dreaded his home life being read out for all to hear. He knew it was likely and understood that there was nothing he could do about it, but he dreaded it all the same. Although knowing that someone who was an authority figure, someone who held actual power to do something would not ignore the same pain as so many others had in the past had healed a part of Harry that he thought had been broken a long time ago. 

It was a constant source of worry and consternation that Harry never went to anyone, to any adult when he needed help. He didn't know how to explain why he didn't see the point in doing so. This was because no one had ever helped him before, or if he had gone to someone, they didn't believe him. All the teachers at his primary school ignored the fact that he was smaller, skinnier, quieter than his cousin, than all the other kids. They turned a blind eye to all the glaringly obvious signs of his homelife based on a few weak lies told by the Dursleys. The way the neighbors ignored him as he sat in nothing more than his cousin's large cast downs on the porch in the freezing cold while it snowed. 

Harry thought that his luck had changed when he got his letter. That once he started Hogwarts, he could get away from the Dursleys, that someone would see, that someone would believe that he was better anywhere else than there. Unfortunately, it didn't change. Yes, he was abroad most of the year, but every summer he was forced to go back. Before the summer in his first year, Harry had begged and pleaded with the Headmaster to let him stay at Hogwarts. To let him go somewhere that wasn't the Dursleys. Instead, Dumbledore looked at him with that twinkle in his eye and sent him to the one place Harry had never been welcomed. Even Mrs. Weasley ignored the twins about the bars on his windows and how the Dursleys weren't feeding him. 

There was no doubt that Harry had that Fred, and his friends would believe him, would do what they could for him. Due to them, Harry could recognize that the treatment he received from the Dursleys wasn't right nor normal. Harry also knew that had his father and Remus known the truth, the full extent of what Harry faced with the Dursleys, they would have taken it upon themselves to get Harry away while also enacting their own form of retribution on them. Even though Harry would appreciate that, his father was an escapee with a Kiss on Sight order, and Remus was a werewolf who faced extreme prejudice from an unfair and corrupt Ministry. 

He loved both men dearly and the thought of them potentially putting more risk in their lives for him made Harry sick. 

Amelia was the first person outside of his tight knit group that was determined to hold the Dursleys to account for everything they had done. 

"Yes." His Uncle Vernon said, his face a sick pale color as his aunt looked like she had lost the ability to breathe. 

As much as Harry appreciated that Amelia would do as she outlined, Harry didn't want his relatives sent to prison. His cousin still needed them, and he knew what it was like to be without parents. There was no way he wanted to do that to Dudley. 

"I don't want them charged." Harry said and everyone sharply turned to look at him. 

"Harry..." Sirius started to say but Harry shook his head. 

"No, Sirius. With whatever comes out, I know they should be charged, I know. That's not what I want though. They're Dudley's parents and I won't do that to him. I know what it's like to be without your parents and I won't do that to him, no matter how much they may deserve it. The only thing I want is to never go back to them again. I never want to set foot inside Number 4. I want to leave all that behind me." Tears sprung into his eyes unbidden, and his father pulled him into his arms. Harry held onto his father until he calmed himself down. Once calm, Harry pulled away and looked at Amelia.

"Besides, if they are charged and put on trial, everything that they did, everything that happened would be put out in public. It'll show all Muggles in a bad light and provide Voldemort with validation of his and the Death Eaters' hate and prejudice against Muggles." He finished and was pulled once more into his father's embrace. Harry didn't fight it at all. 

"I don't know whether I should be angry at the prospect of them getting away with how they treated you, or proud of just how kind and forgiving you are. Everyday Harry, every day you surprise me." Sirius said and kissed his hair as he held Harry more securely in his grip. 

"You are truly remarkable, my dear boy. I cannot say just how proud I am of you." Harry was surprised to notice how little he cared about hearing how Dumbledore was proud of him. In fact, it made him a bit angry.

"I'm not doing this for you. I'm doing it because it's what's best for me." He knew his voice was sharp and cold like bitter gales in a storm. Dumbledore bowed his head in the face of it and Harry turned his face away, not wanting to see the aged Headmaster any longer. 

"Harry, it is your choice, but I would still like to have that conversation at the end of the readings in case you change your mind." Amelia said, and Harry nodded in agreement. 

"Now, if Harry is well enough, I believe we all should make our way to the Great Hall." It was remarkable how Amelia could go from the kind caring woman to the Head of the DMLE in the blink of an eye. 

At her words they all started to make their way out the door towards the Great Hall. Harry couldn't help but feel depressed at not being able to spend the time he wanted alone with Fred. It was barely 8:00 and so much had already happened today. Things were only going to get more difficult and upsetting as the day went by. 

Not wanting to deal with anyone, Harry lagged in the back of the group. He knew Sirius was worried, but Harry just said he needed time for himself to think before they joined everyone. Fred stayed with him, unmovable from Harry’s side. So lost in thought, Harry walked right into Narcissa who had stopped walking.

"Go." She said with a tilt of her head down the adjacent corridor.

Harry looked at her in confusion. 

Her silver eyes flickered between Harry and Fred as a small, soft, knowing smile formed over her face. Harry realized that the corridor she had indicated was the one that leads to the Astronomy Tower. Deep gratitude for the woman welled up in him when he realized what she was saying. 

"Thank you." Harry said and her smile widened as she dipped her head elegantly. 

Harry tightened his hold on Fred's hand and started to quickly make his way down the corridor, pulling Fred along with him. 

"Where are we going?" Fred asked, as he followed Harry easily enough without protest. 

"Astronomy Tower." Harry said as he looked into Fred's eyes. A sparkle entered them at Harry’s words and Fred broke out into a bright crooked smile. 

They quickly made their way down the corridor, through the halls, and all the way up the tower. By the time the brisk wind hit Harry, his breathing was hard, but he felt himself relax as he closed his eyes, taking deep breaths. 

Before he knew it, he was engulfed in warmth as Fred wrapped his arms around Harry, pulling him close, and holding him tightly. Burying his face in Fred's chest, Harry let go of all the stress, all the fear, of everything that had been thrown at him, basking in his boyfriend's embrace. Breathing in Fred's scent, Harry never wanted to leave his spot. He was with the love of his life, the person he wanted to be with for the rest of his life. This was the person who knew him best and accepted every part of him unconditionally. 

Harry couldn't imagine life without Fred. He couldn't imagine how cold, how dark, how lonely he would be if he ever lost the older boy. He tightened his grip on the redhead at the thought that that is why they are here now. Why everything that has happened in the last day has happened. 

He had lost Fred. 

His throat grew tight as his eyes burned. He clutched onto Fred and let out a sob. 

"It's okay, Harry. I'm here. Let it out. I got you. It's alright love, let it out." Fred whispered loving words into his ear, and Harry allowed himself to fall apart in Fred's strong arms. Harry knew that when he was done, Fred would carefully, lovingly, put the pieces of Harry back together, building the green-eyed boy back even stronger than before. 

When Harry had worn himself out, Fred placed a hand under his chin, lifting Harry’s face to stare into his eyes. Slowly, delicately, Fred kissed his cheeks, following the tracks of his tears and replacing their salted stains with ones of love and care. Done, the tears were only a memory as Fred dipped his head once more, slotting his lips against Harry's and taking his breath away. The older boy took full control of the kiss. Harry offered no challenge as he submitted to the force that was Fred. Relishing in the love and affection Fred readily and freely gave him. 

Harry had no idea how long they stood there, how long they relished in the touch of each other, but however long it was, it wasn't enough. Unfortunately, the need for air became too much and they broke their kiss, breathing in much needed air. 

"Wow." Harry said, completely dazed from the kiss. 

Fred chuckled slightly before nuzzling his neck. 

"Wow indeed." Fred said into the sensitive skin of his neck before placing a kiss there, sending chills down Harry’s spine. 

"You know you're not alone in this. I'll stand by your side the entire time. If something happens and you need time for yourself, then bugger everyone. We'll sneak to the Room or here or somewhere and they can wait." The redhead said as he rubbed his one hand up and down Harry’s spine, while the other one tenderly held the back of his head.

"And you know Ron, Hermione, Ginny and the others are here for you too. They'll keep the others off our backs when we escape." There was no way Harry could doubt Fred's words. Ginny would take special pleasure in doing so. 

"Sirius and Remus will be glued to you as well. If anyone has any problems with anything in the books, they will have to get through those two first." Both men had made it known the lengths that they would go to for Harry. 

"It's not the readings that scare me. Well, I'm not entirely happy about them but they could do more good than harm. Especially if they could help us defeat Voldemort." Emerald eyes stared into eyes bluer and more hypnotizing than the melted pools of water from glaciers. 

"It's reading about the deaths." Harry whispered as he felt his eyes burn once more. 

"It's reading about all the people I failed." His breathing hitched and he tightened his grip on Fred's sweater beneath his cloak. 

"It's reading about how I failed you." Harry knew his voice was desperate, felt as if he was on the brink of sobbing his heart out once more. 

"Harry, whatever happened, you can't blame yourself. You can't blame yourself for any of it. And there is no way that you could fail me. Harry, you're the best thing that has ever happened to me." Fred looked imploringly into his eyes trying to make Harry believe his words. 

"But I didn't feel your Magick." He said, despairingly. Fred's eyes and face were filled with confusion. 

"When Professor McGonagall opened the letter, when the Magick for the reading came out, when we felt the Sacrifice. I didn't feel your Magick. There's no way I would have left you. There's no way I would Sacrifice my life if I still had you. That means that you were already..." Harry cut himself off harshly, unable to finish the thought.

"That I'm already dead." Fred finished and Harry let out a sound like a wounded animal as he buried his face in the strong chest, pressing his ear to hear the steady heartbeat of the older boy. 

"Harry, if I died in that future, it wouldn't have been your fault. None of it would have been your fault. Whether it was from a dumb experiment turned awry or while fighting Death Eaters, it would have been my choice and that is not on you." Fred held Harry’s face so Harry had nowhere else to look but at the truth and certainty that Fred held in his eyes as he spoke. 

"And however I die, I'll make sure it doesn't happen again. I meant it when I said that I had no intention of leaving you. I want to spend a long, happy life with you, Harry." The absolute conviction and strength Fred spoke with gave Harry hope. Hope that they will be able to get through anything and everything that will be thrown their way in the future. 

"I love you, Harry. With all my heart, with all of my soul, I love you. Always." Blue eyes shined with naked earnestness and an all-consuming love. 

Everything that Fred had said, everything that he made Harry feel, Harry’s only recourse was to pull Fred into another desperate and passionate kiss. Harry poured all his anxiety, stress, fear, love, hope, and strength into the kiss. Fred took it all, every piece of Harry, and treasured it reverently as though Harry was the most precious thing in the world. 

When the need for air became too much to ignore, they broke apart, taking in deep shuddering breaths. 

"I love you too, Fred. More than I could ever say." Harry said as he tucked his head under Fred's chin, letting his entire weight fall onto the older boy, knowing and trusting that Fred would keep him standing, never allowing him to fall. 

Strong arms tightened their hold on Harry, and the green-eyed boy basked in their warmth and love.