It was Thursday, and Harry and Dudley were walking out of school together, laughing and joking like the friends they were. They were expecting a normal evening at home, but when they spotted Petunia at the school gates, they both knew something unusual was going to happen – because standing next to Petunia was Sebastian.
Harry waved excitedly, wondering what was going on – Delacour weekends never started on a Thursday, and besides his last one was less than three weeks ago! However as he started thinking about what could have happened, excitement started building. And sure enough...
"'ello 'arry, 'ello Dudley. You're probably wondering why I am 'ere?"
Harry nodded excitedly.
"Well, I thought 'arry might want to meet the newest member of the Delacour family..." Sebastian smiled.
"YES!" shouted Harry excitedly.
Dudley just chuckled. "Have fun Harry! Just don't go replacing me as Second Best Friend anytime soon!"
A few minutes later, Sebastian and Harry had found a secluded spot. A moment after that, and they had apparated to the Delacour home.
"'arry!" "Fleur!". The pair hugged each other tightly, and Fleur pressed a kiss to each of Harry's cheeks.
Before their hug had even finished, Fleur started babbling excitedly. "'arry, it's so exciting! Mama had the baby! Mama and Papa said it would probably be a girl, but I wasn't sure, and I wanted a sister just like you had and so I could share my old clothes, but then it was a girl! And she's so small and cute! You're going to love her, and she's going to love you, but you haven't met her yet, but that doesn't matter, and...
Sebastian, from his position just behind Harry, laughed. "Fleur, give 'arry a chance to breathe! Besides, maybe he would like to meet your sister rather than just hear about her?"
Fleur blushed a little, nodded, then led Harry by the hand to the lounge. "Mama! Harry's here!"
"Oh really? I couldn't have guessed!" joked Appoline with amusement.
As Fleur led Harry into the lounge, he saw Appoline sitting in one of the armchairs, holding a small baby. Appoline looked tired but well; the baby looked very small, and a bit sleepy.
Appoline smiled broadly and said to Harry in a gentle voice, "'arry, this is Gabrielle Delacour. Gabrielle, meet 'arry Potter, your honorary big brother".
Harry gave a big, proud smile, with just a hint of a blush. "Hello Gabrielle. You've already got the best big sister in the world, so I'll try to be the best big brother I can be."
...
From their usual position on the sofa, with Harry burrowed into Fleur's side, Harry and Fleur talked – mostly about Gabrielle, and how things would change. Fleur could see already that her Mama and Papa were going to have to spend a lot of their time looking after Gabrielle, but Fleur was trying to be understanding, and even to be helpful – she wanted to be the best big sister in the world, just like Harry had said.
Delacour visits never lasted long enough, but given Harry was only there for a couple of hours this time, it was all too soon when Sebastian had to apparate Harry back home. With hugs all round, and a kiss to the forehead for Gabrielle, the short visit was over.
...
It was a couple of months later when Sebastian had a surprising floo call.
"Hello Sebastian? Are you there?"
"Albus? To what do I owe the pleasure?"
A pause, and then, "Could we perhaps speak in person?"
"Of course. The floo's open, come on through."
Dumbledore, complete with garish robes and friendly smile, came through into the Delacour home. Sebastian could not tell whether the matter was urgent or not, so asked. "Do you 'ave time for a drink, Albus, or would you rather get straight to the point?"
Dumbledore hesitated for a moment, then replied. "Perhaps a drink, and maybe I could meet your new daughter?"
Sebastian smiled – he was more than happy to show off Gabrielle!
After a few minutes of Dumbledore entertaining Gabrielle with magical bubbles, and some tea, Sebastian and Dumbledore sat down to talk.
"So what do I owe this pleasure, Albus?"
Dumbledore paused for a moment; he disliked asking for advice, having learned not to rely on others decades ago, however... "Sebastian, you have proven several times over the past few years to be able to spot things I have missed; and that is not a compliment I give out regularly." Perhaps Dumbledore's greatest understatement that year.
Sebastian was surprised, to say the least. "You wish for my advice?"
A look of embarrassment flittered across Dumbledore's face for half a second, before it was replaced by his trademark grandfatherly smile. "I do. Were it not for you, Harry would likely not be thriving as well as he is, and Sirius would still be in Azkaban."
Sebastian nodded at the compliment – Dumbledore was clearly correct. "Ok. What is the problem?"
"I'm having trouble hiring a permanent professor to teach Defense against the Dark Arts"
Sebastian blinked. He assumed the problem wasn't as simple as it sounded, so he merely asked, "what sort of trouble?"
"I believe a curse has been put on the position; for well over two decades, each Defense against the Dark Arts Professor has only lasted a single year, and after that has suffered some misfortune or accident that has meant they could no longer teach."
"Do you know 'ow this may 'ave 'appened?", was Sebastian's obvious next question.
Here Dumbledore paused, and carefully ordered his thoughts before continuing. "I have only suspicions and circumstantial evidence, though I am convinced of my hypothesis. But Sebastian – this information cannot be shared. It could lead to other information that must die with me." A pause, and then... "I will need a secrecy oath."
Sebastian blanched - this conversation had escalated quickly! After thinking for a moment, Sebastian shook his head. "No, that is ok, Albus. You do not need to give me details. Suffice to say I can expect the curse to be very powerful, obscure and well 'idden?"
Dumbledore nodded. Internally he was glad – he did not want anyone gaining even seemingly innocent information on Tom Riddle, for fear of where any information trail may end. If Dumbledore was correct, Tom Riddle may have discovered a shockingly easy and truly evil means of functional immortality; what if Grindelwald had discovered Horcruxes? What if the next Dark Lord does? Dumbledore shuddered at the thought.
Sebastian thought for a moment, then asked the next obvious question. "What 'ave you done so far?"
"I've scanned the school for malevolent magics, but found none. With the consent of four of the last five Defense Professors, I have monitored them for residual magics towards the end of each of their years, but found nothing."
"Do any of your Professors 'ave a particular specialism in Dark Arts or Curse-breaking?"
Dumbledore gave it some thought. "Severus has extensive experience in Dark Arts, from his past and his former association. Filius did some Curse-breaking for a few years, I believe. I think that's all."
Dumbledore missed the momentary look of disbelief that flickered across Sebastian's face at the mention of Severus. A moment later the expression was hidden; this would be something Sebastian would need to address, but only after the current topic was resolved.
"'ave you asked them for suggestions?"
"No, although that may be a way forward."
Sebastian considered the problem for a few moments. The solution seemed obvious to him, though he examined it from different angles to be sure. Once he had done so... "Albus, why not 'ire a team of professionals? In particular, why not 'ire Gringotts cursebreakers? I understand contracts can be set up to force secrecy oaths, or any other conditions you wish to stipulate. Your school would no doubt be safer than Egyptian tombs, so I 'ave no doubt they would accept."
Dumbledore looked surprised. It was an obvious solution, and he didn't know why he hadn't thought of it! After a few moments he replied. "Thank you Sebastian. That sounds like the ideal solution, if the right conditions can be set"
"For the right amount of gold, I'm sure they can be, Albus."
Dumbledore nodded; it would certainly cost galleons, but the price would be worth it.
A thought occurred to Sebastian. "Of course, even if that didn't work, could you not arrange an auror rotation to teach? You may need to set lesson plans, but once that was done, assuming the ministry supports it, you could 'ave different aurors each year, or even each term if that was necessary to avoid the curse."
Dumbledore nodded again. "That would obviously be less ideal than a qualified professor teaching, but could be a reasonable solution. Thank you again, Sebastian."
Now that Dumbledore had two potential options, Sebastian brought the topic back to an earlier concern. "Albus, you mentioned Severus was teaching at your school?"
Dumbledore nodded, awaiting Sebastian's next idea.
"I'm surprised you're willing to let 'im teach."
Dumbledore frowned; he knew the argument that was coming, as he had heard this from several people before. "You need not worry. Severus has my complete confidence – whilst he did willingly follow Voldemort at one time, I know, without a doubt, that he is on our side."
Sebastian attempted a placating smile, and shook his head. "That is not what I meant. In Magical France, and indeed several other magical and Muggle societies, they do not let those who 'ave committed certain crimes work with children."
Dumbledore paused; that was not the argument he was expecting. After a few moments, he responded. "I believe in second chances. Whilst Severus committed terrible crimes as a Death Eater, he truly is reformed."
Now it was Sebastian's turn to frown; surely Dumbledore knew better than this! "Albus, it is not about reform. Working with children 'as its difficulties, and can be very mentally taxing. It takes a particular sort of person to thrive in teaching, and that is opposite to a person who could murder, rape or torture.
"Tell me, does Severus enjoy teaching? Does 'e take pleasure in 'is student learning? Does 'e encourage 'is students? Does 'e find joy in sharing 'is knowledge with others?"
Dumbledore looked troubled. He had been so concerned with keeping Severus on the side of the light, in particular ensuring Severus could find employment away from his old life – more difficult than expected for a potions prodigy! – that he hadn't stopped to consider whether Severus would be skilled at imparting his knowledge. Or whether he could enjoy the job. Dumbledore recognised the issue: with so many roles to perform, he was simply unable to give any one role enough of his attention. The realisation shamed him.
"If I may, I believe your expression 'as answered my questions, Albus. Let me say this – I can imagine it is 'ard for Severus to find work – especially with his old friends be'ind bars and many of the light not trusting 'im". Sebastian included – though he didn't admit that. "There are other options at 'ogwarts – potions research per'aps, or even the start of 'ogwarts own potions shop, set up in 'ogsmeade? You need not cast 'im aside, Albus."
Dumbledore gave a heavy sigh, then gave a melancholic smile to Sebastian. "You have given me much to think about. More, perhaps, than I have had since the war ended."
Sebastian nodded and gave a small smile – he was hopeful Dumbledore would make the right call. "Anytime Albus – you know where to find me."
...
It hadn't taken long for Dumbledore to agree terms with Gringotts, but by then it was already Autumn, and since the goblins needed complete access to the school Dumbledore suggested the work begin over the summer holiday the following year.
Whilst Dumbledore was a little tense during that period of waiting, Harry was the happiest he had ever been. Harry loved Sebastian, Appoline and (most of all) Fleur, and he was coming to love Gabrielle too. It was still tradition for Harry to immediately seek out Fleur and spend a few minutes with her first, but then Harry would find Gabrielle – much to her delight – and play with her.
The only difference to the tradition was on special occasions, like Fleur's ninth birthday, in late spring:
"Fleur!" "'arry!" was followed by a tight hug and Fleur kissing Harry's cheeks, however before they had made their way to their favourite sofa a voice called out, "Oi! Where's my favourite Godson?"
A look of mild frustration crossed Fleur's face – this was her Harry time! – but Harry just gave Fleur a smile, her hand a squeeze, and said a quiet, "later?".
Fleur nodded, albeit a little grumpily, so Harry called, "In here Uncle Woof!". And then a second later, "Hey! I'm your only Godson!".
Sirius laughed, scooped Harry and Fleur both up in a hug, and spun them around. Harry and Fleur joined in the laughter, and before too long two kids and a large black dog were running around the Delacour home playing. Then, once a crawling Gabrielle heard the chaos, she joined in – trying to grab hold of Sirius' tail, whilst Harry and Fleur were careful not to knock her over.
Gabrielle was having a difficult time grabbing hold of Sirius' tail, and so Harry and Fleur did what any supportive big brother and big sister would do – they tried to gang up on Sirius. It was working for a while (or at least Sirius was letting them think so), with Harry and Fleur sitting on Sirius to hold him down... until Gabrielle managed to grab the tail she had been seeking, put it in her mouth, and bite. At that point, Sirius yelped, transformed back into his human form and rubbed his sore rear.
"Ouch! Gabrielle, don't bite the dog!"
Gabrielle, in a standard response to being reprimanded for a not-yet-one year old, just giggled.
...
Much later, after birthday games, cake, presents, another ganging up on Sirius; and after Sirius had left and Gabrielle was in bed, Fleur finally had her Harry time.
Cuddled up together on a sofa, with Harry again nestled into Fleur, Fleur felt at peace. "I missed you, 'arry"
Harry gave Fleur a tight squeeze. "I missed you too, Fleur"
"I was waiting all day to have my 'arry time, you know"
Harry squeezed Fleur tighter, feeling both pleased and a little embarrassed. "Me too", Harry admitted quietly.
A few moments of silence, then, "Fleur?"
"Yes, 'arry?"
"Are you controlling your allure right now?"
Fleur smiled – almost grinned, really. This was a familiar part of their conversations. "Oh, I guess I am."
"Could you... stop for a while? Please?"
Fleur's smile was now definitely a grin. "Anything for my best friend".
Fleur relaxed, letting her allure flow. Honestly, it was much easier for her to let go like this, but as a part Veela she had to learn control – both for the sake of others and for herself. But with family, and especially with Harry, she could fully be herself.
As soon as Fleur released her allure, and Harry felt the familiar feeling of pure Fleur wash over him, he cuddled even closer, a content smile on his face and warmth in his heart.
In would be a while later that Harry and Fleur were ordered up to bed – Sebastian and Appoline were sure that unless they were told to, the friends would spend all night cuddled on the sofa, talking.
chapter 8
Cheveu was part excited, part nervous. If her body language hadn't made that obvious, then her hair – half flattened, half spiky, all changing colours fairly regularly – definitely did. "And you're sure they don't mind me coming along?"
Sirius chuckled, shaking his head; his cousin (well, second cousin) obviously needed reassuring. Again. "Of course they don't. Like I said, they'd like to meet you. Besides, Harry wanted you to come, and it is his birthday."
Cheveu nodded, a little more confident. "Ok. Then I'm ready. I think."
Sirius chuckled, then offered his hand, which Cheveu took. Just before he apparated, he had one final thing to say: "Oh, almost forgot! When we arrive, don't say anything, just follow me."
Cheveu looked confused. "Why?"
Sirius grinned. "Entertainment. And something you can tease Harry about for years... If I've gotten my timing right."
Sirius checked his watch – by his guess, Harry had been at the Delacours' for three minutes. Perfect.
A moment later, and Sirius and Cheveu were in France. Cheveu looked around and stared – she was in another country! It was so cool! But before she could even finish looking she was being dragged towards the house in front of her. "Sorry, but time is critical if we want that entertainment."
As they approached the door, Sebastian opened it, held a finger up to his lips, and grinned to Sirius. Sirius grinned back and, pulling Cheveu by the hand, headed towards the living room. Sirius carefully, silently opened the door, and he and Cheveu approached the voices they could hear.
"... hide, because people are scared of snakes and people aren't really meant to know I can talk to them."
Cheveu heard a feminine giggle, followed by some more French. "And what did the snake say about that?"
By now, Sirius and Cheveu had snuck up to the sofa - which was facing away from them - and as Cheveu peered over to look at the occupants her eyes widened, her hair shot up and turned bright green, and her mouth opened wide.
Harry had been at the Delacours' for five and a half minutes, and so Harry and Fleur were cuddled together on the sofa. Harry had his left arm around Fleur's back, his right arm across her stomach with his hand holding her side, his head nestled against her shoulder, and his right leg half over her left; Fleur had her left hand loosely on top of Harry's right hand, her right hand holding him against her, and her head nestled against his. Sirius had timed it perfectly.
Fleur and Harry were clearly in their own little world together, as they hadn't noticed Sirius and Cheveu, and just carried on the conversation. "He... Or she? It? It just sort of nodded, then asked me if I knew where it might find some mice."
Fleur giggled again, pulling Harry tighter as she did. It was then that Cheveu found her voice. "How come my little brother never told me he had a girlfriend?!"
Fleur jumped up in surprise – or rather, she would have done, had Harry not been cuddled up with her. She was now blushing, and the fact that Harry wasn't letting go (nor did she want him to, if she was being honest) wasn't helping.
"I'm not 'arry's girlfriend, we're just best friends" Fleur answered, a little flustered.
"Erm... What did she say?", asked Cheveu.
"Harry's big sister has many talents, but sadly speaking French isn't one of them", Sirius explained.
"I said I'm 'arry's best friend, not 'is girlfriend", said Fleur, still flustered. Harry just nodded in agreement.
Cheveu started to grin, her hair now cycling between yellow and pink. "Oh really? Because it definitely looked like I found two love birds enjoying a sweet, romantic moment together just now."
Whilst Fleur was sputtering, and Harry had started to blush, Sirius started speaking and Fleur hoped he was going to help. "Come on, Cheveu, play nice..." A pause, just to lull Harry and Fleur into a false sense of security, then, "...after all, they were probably about to kiss, and now you've ruined it."
Cheveu giggled, Fleur blushed harder, Harry hid his face, and Sirius looked very pleased with himself. After she got her giggles under control, Cheveu asked, "So are you going to introduce me to your 'definitely not girlfriend'?"
Harry untangled himself from Fleur, then both Harry and Fleur sat up and turned to face Cheveu. Neither noticed they were holding hands. "Erm, ok. Fleur this is my big sister, Cheveu. Cheveu, this is my best friend Fleur."
Cheveu, her hair still cycling between yellow and pink, though more slowly now, grinned. "Nice to meet you. Harry talks about you all the time. Though he forgot to mention the part where he cuddled a pretty French girl every month."
Fleur, still blushing quite heavily, tried to get her embarrassment under control by changing the subject. "'ello Cheveu. 'arry's told me lots about you too, especially 'ow your 'air changes. It is really cool."
Cheveu liked Fleur so far, and thought she'd probably teased her enough (for now). That virtuous thought lasted until Gabrielle, having heard voices, came crawling into the room. Gabrielle saw Harry, beamed happily, and crawled towards him, where Harry pulled her up onto the sofa and onto his lap. It was too good an opportunity for Cheveu to resist. "You've already had a baby together?!" she shouted in mock horror.
Clearly Sebastian had been watching, as his laughter just outside the room rivalled that of Sirius' inside. Gabrielle joined in the laughter too... though being not-yet-one, so had no idea what it was about.
...
A few minutes and a few hugs later, Harry was reading a story to Gabrielle and Cheveu and Fleur were getting to know each other.
"But I thought you'd known 'arry since 'e was a baby!", Fleur exclaimed.
Cheveu shook her head. "No, I met Harry just before he turned 5. Can you believe Uncle Siri waited almost five years before telling me he knew Harry?! I had to whack him for that."
Fleur was unfamiliar with the phrase. "'whack 'im?' what do you mean?"
Cheveu smiled conspiratorially. "I'll show you, watch." Then, turning to Sirius, called in a sing-song voice, "Uncle Siiiriii!".
Sirius came over, curious, and just when he got in reach of Cheveu she hit him in the arm. "Ouch! What was that for?"
Cheveu ignored Sirius, turning back to Fleur who was now laughing. "See? That's how I whacked him. Completely deserved, both times."
Fleur just nodded in between her laughter, while Sirius now looked confused. "Erm, Cheveu? Something you want to explain?"
Cheveu smiled innocently. "Just explaining what 'whack him' means, in the context of you not telling me you knew Harry until he was five."
Sirius just shook his head, muttering "Definitely gets it from Andromeda" as he walked away.
Once Fleur had stopped laughing, Cheveu had a question. "What are we doing for Harry's birthday?"
Fleur smiled excitedly as she answered. "We're going to visit Geoff and Barry!"
...
A very confused Cheveu followed Harry and Fleur – holding hands, she noted amusedly – as they raced to the reptile enclosure, followed closely by Sebastian and Sirius. Appoline was a little further behind, with Gabrielle in a pushchair. Cheveu was even more confused when Harry and Fleur stopped just outside, and started looking around for something. Seeming to find what they wanted, then quickly walked inside, past the crocodiles and lizards, and over to the snakes.
"Hey Geoff! Wake up! It's Harry!"
"Huh? Wha...?"
"It's Harry, you idiot, he's come to visit us!"
"Harry!"
Cheveu was confused. She had never seen snakes so active before. If anything, she might describe them as... excited?
"Harry, me old pal, me old buddy"
"Our favourite human, bar none"
"Did you bring him"
"Did you?"
"You did, didn't you?"
"You wouldn't visit us without him, would you?"
"He's just behind you, isn't he?"
Before Harry had chance to get a word in, Sebastian entered the reptile enclosure, Sirius just behind.
"YES! IT'S THE VOLE WIZARD!"
Harry laughed, then greeted the snakes. "Hi Geoff, hi Barry. Yes, I brought the Vole Wizard"
"You're the best, Harry!"
"Yeah, way better than the jokers who are meant to look after us"
"Did you know they fed us rats three months in a row?!"
Harry put on a suitably surprised face, though he didn't know if such feeding schedules were normal in a zoo. "That sounds a bit boring, guys."
The snakes nodded. "Oh yeah, it really is."
After a second, Barry had a question. "Hey Harry?"
"Yes, Barry?" By now, Harry could tell them apart.
"Who's the new friend, and why does she look like she's silently screaming?"
Harry turned, saw Cheveu's look of utter shock, and collapsed with laughter. Eventually, Harry could speak again, and asked Fleur to explain while Harry took 'lunch orders'.
"Go on, 'arry. Ask them what they'd like this time", Sebastian urged.
"Vole Wizard wants to know what you'd like to eat, assuming you're hungry."
"Vole! Vole! Vole! Vole!", chanted Barry.
Harry giggled, then turned to Geoff. "And what about you, Geoff?"
"What are those little bushy tailed tree rats called? The ones that can be red or grey?"
"You mean squirrels?" offered Harry.
"Yes! I wanna try red squirrel!"
"But Geoff, those things are tiny! You need something bigger to fill you up!" argued Barry.
"Not if I have three", replied Geoff, hopefully.
...
Eventually, Appoline arrived with Gabrielle, and after one more moment of embarrassment for Harry – "Geoff, look! Harry and his 'best friend' have had a baby!" "Blimey! You started young, Harry!" "No, no, that's Fleur's sister!" – the group moved on. The rest of the zoo was fun, especially for Gabrielle who hadn't been before, but all too soon the trip was over, and then soon after that it was time for Cheveu to go home.
"Will I see you before I go to Hogwarts, little bro?", asked Cheveu, hopefully.
Harry nodded firmly. "Of course! Just ask Uncle Woof and he'll sort it."
Cheveu hugged her little brother tightly, then turned to Fleur. "I'm really glad I got to meet you today. Take care of Harry for me, and don't do anything I wouldn't do"
Fleur blushed – Cheveu was relentless with her teasing! – but Fleur liked her nonetheless, so gave her a big hug too. "I'm glad I met you too. I think. I'll take care of 'arry, don't worry."
After Cheveu and Sirius had left, and after Harry read Gabrielle her bedtime story – something he now did whenever he had the chance – Sebastian and Appoline sat Fleur and Harry down for what seemed a serious conversation.
"'arry, Fleur. We have something we wanted to ask you", began Appoline.
"and we want you to answer honestly. This is too important to lie about, and we will be disappointed if you try", continued Sebastian, in a grave voice.
Fleur gulped, and Harry looked worried; was something wrong?
"We would like to know..."
"...we need to know..."
Sebastian and Appoline paused, dragging it out.
"...whether you and Harry..."
Fleur couldn't cope with the tension, and since she was sure she knew what the question was, she blurted out her answer. "'arry isn't my boyfriend, Mama, Papa. I love him, but I don't even know what I'm meant to do with a boyfriend, and I like what 'arry and I have now, and we're too young, and maybe one day but, well...". Fleur's tailed off, nervous.
Appoline and Sebastian were still wearing those grave expressions as they carefully studied Fleur and Harry's faces. Then, after a ghost of a mischievous smile passed over Appoline's face, the question was finally asked. "...would like to start learning some magic?"
Fleur just looked dumbfounded. Harry, too, though he had the presence of mind to ask the question they were both thinking: "Huh?"
Grinning at their tease, Appoline and Sebastian asked again, this time normally. "Your Papa and I were wondering..."
"...if you'd like to start learning some magic?"
A short pause, then Fleur whacked Sebastian. "Papa! Don't tease us like that! Yes, we would like to learn!" Harry just nodded his agreement – to both points.
Sebastian and Appoline laughed, which gave Fleur a chance to ask a question. "But how? We're not allowed to cast spells yet, are we?"
Appoline smiled broadly. "Ah, but that is why we shall start with potions!"
...
Two weeks after Harry's birthday, Sebastian yet again had a surprising floo call.
"Sebastian? Are you there?"
"Yes, Albus. Something I can 'elp you with? Would you like to come through?"
Dumbledore shook his head. "Actually, could you come through to Hogwarts? It will be easier to show you."
Sebastian nodded, and once he had let Appoline know he shouted "'ogwarts!" and flooed to the school.
Stepping out into the Headmaster's office, Sebastian noted Dumbledore was already by the door. "I'm afraid I'm in somewhat of a hurry, Sebastian. If you would follow me?"
Sebastian nodded, and did as requested. As Dumbledore led them through Hogwarts, Sebastian asked, "so, what's this about, Albus?"
Albus explained en route. "We've had the Gringotts cursebreakers in, and I'm shocked as to what they found – not just one curse, but several, as well as a vile magical artefect of great evil and a possible entrance to a hidden chamber.
"The curse of the Defense post was found – it was a feat of astounding magical skill, with wizarding notice-me-not charms over it; only the goblins themselves managed to find it – and the artefact was destroyed. But the chamber may just contain something worse.
"I have a favour to ask you – well, Harry really – but I want you to see for yourself before you agree."
Sebastian looked troubled; what could have Albus so worried? They arrived at a girls' bathroom, of all places.
"Here we are. Two cursebreakers are inside, waiting to explain."
Sebastian followed Albus inside, and saw a girl's ghost and two goblin cursebreakers.
Albus addressed the goblins. "I know we have a tight schedule. Please, can you explain to my friend Sebastian what you explained to me, Stabeye?"
The taller goblin nodded. "Your school was a mess and you should have called us much earlier" began Stabeye.
Albus grimaced. "About the chamber, I mean"
Stabeye smiled – Sebastian wondered if the goblin had made a joke – and started again. "We have detected a large magical signature underneath the castle – something equivalent to a large dragon – and believe the entrance to its lair is somewhere in the school. This girl..." the goblin indicated the ghost "...has given us reason to believe the entrance is in this room. Our scans here lead us to believe the entrance is sealed by parselmagic; ideally we would avoid a brute force approach to opening the entrance, as the consequences could be... unfortunate for the school, and the surrounding area. Unfortunately, Gringotts does not currently employ anyone with the relevant skill."
Sebastian blanched, then turned to Albus. "And you wish 'arry to help with something this dangerous?!"
The goblin interjected before Albus could reply. "We wish to try some known parseltongue command phrases, to see if the entrance will unlock. Nothing that would cause a magical backlash."
Sebastian considered carefully. "and the reason it is so urgent?"
Dumbledore sighed. "I would rather deal with this before students return to school, than risk something happening to one of them."
Sebastian nodded in agreement. "Ok, but I have terms."
Albus looked curious. "And those are...?"
Sebastian wore an unpleasant look on his face – he didn't like business dealings, but this was for his Godson; he may need the funds someday. "5% of the value of anything we find there if 'arry can open the chamber, including the creature's carcass."
...
Harry had never travelled by Phoenix before, but he found he much preferred it to apparition. When he landed with a flash of flame in a bathroom, he thought Sebastian might have been playing a joke, but then he saw an old wizard, two goblins and a ghost, and figured this looked legitimate.
After introductions and a quick explanation, Harry tried the command phrases; with a few visits to Geoff and Barry under his belt, Harry was able to speak the phrases with ease. Surprisingly, the simplest – "Open!" – had worked.
Dumbledore and the goblins descended down the path that opened, but a few minutes later they returned. "We shall need Harry's skill again."
The path turned out to be a grimy slide, which Sebastian helped Harry down. Once they arrived at the bottom, Harry opened another door. There, Sebastian gave a startled shout. "Merde! Albus, what is that?"
'That' was a giant snakeskin, tens of metres long. Specifically... "A basilisk, I fear, Sebastian" said Dumbledore gravely.
"I do hope so", said Stabeye, surprisingly.
"You 'ope so?!" asked Sebastian. "Why would you 'ope for... ah. Of course. Will conjurations work?"
Stabeye shook his head. "No, but I know a Phoenix who can get us one" he said, grinning.
...
Later, Harry thought to himself that the Basilisk 'fight' had been a bit anticlimactic. The Basilisk seemed in a poor mood and attacked straight away, but given there were five roosters all crowing quite aggressively before the Basilisk had even looked at anyone, the poor snake never had a chance.
Harry was pleased that he would earn some "pocket money" from his efforts, though Sebastian said he didn't know how much. Harry just asked for it to be put in his and Fleur's joint Gringotts account, which made Sebastian laugh, for some reason.
...
It was about almost a year before any money even appeared in Harry and Fleur's account - and when it did it was nearly enough for a large house - but Harry had not given it much thought. Instead, he spent that time (or at least the year's Delacour weekends) learning potions, cuddling and talking with Fleur, playing with Gabrielle and watching her learn to walk and start to talk, and talking to Appoline and Sebastian.
But whilst Harry's life was filling even fuller with joy and happiness, another's life was getting desperate. Tom Marvolo Riddle felt near crippled so very often, and when he recovered he found himself weaker than before. He previously had several plans to regain a body, but in his badly weakened state he was utterly helpless. He dared not consider what would happen to him if he died as a wraith before he'd even regained a body.
chapter 9
It was the summer. Fleur had turned ten, Harry had turned eight, and Gabrielle's second birthday was tomorrow.
Fleur and Harry were enjoying their potion lessons with Sebastian and Appoline, and could now brew several first year potions unaided... although still very much under close observation, in case anything went wrong.
Fleur had some friends at school, though her allure had long since ended any friendships with boys, as they struggled to hold a conversation with her. The only exception, of course, was Harry. Speaking of which, Gabrielle's birthday was on a Saturday this year, and so Harry would be staying for the weekend. In fact, Harry was due to arrive later that evening. But for only the second time ever, Fleur was nervous about his visit; and this time she really didn't want to talk to her Mama and Papa about the reason why.
"Something is bothering her, my love", Appoline commented.
Sebastian nodded his agreement. "She's normally so happy before an 'arry visit. Now she seems almost skittish. I can't think of what could be wrong."
"You don't suppose there's been an argument, do you? They certainly looked as happy together as usual last visit." That was certainly true – the last visit was Harry's eighth birthday, and they were glued to each other's sides just like always.
Sebastian thought about it. "No, I don't think there has been a disagreement. We would have seen something. Maybe we need to just ask her."
Appoline sighed. "You're right. I'll speak to her now, see if I can discover the problem."
Fleur was currently sat with a book, though given the page hadn't been turned for a few minutes, she clearly wasn't reading it. "Hello, angel"
Fleur jumped, dropping the book. She gave an unconvincing smile to Appoline, picking the book back up. "Hello Mama. Fed up with Papa?"
Appoline smiled gently. "Perhaps. Though I also wanted to see how my eldest was doing."
Fleur gave a big, albeit unconvincing, smile. "I'm doing well, of course. It's the weekend!"
Appoline gently prodded, still careful to smile. "and an 'arry weekend at that, no?"
Fleur's smile faltered for a second, before it was back. "Yes of course Mama, the best kind of weekend"
Appoline gave a concerned look, and Fleur knew she had been discovered. "Fleur?"
A pause, and then "... Yes, Mama?". Fleur had hesitated for a moment too long, she knew.
"What's wrong, my angel?"
Fleur wore the expression of a trapped animal. She looked around, seeking a way out, but none was forthcoming. And before she could even answer, Appoline cut right to the heart of the problem. "Is there a problem with 'arry?"
Fleur sighed in defeat. She realised it was better to get this awful, embarrassing conversation over with as soon as possible. But where to start? "Yes!... No!... I don't know, Mama!"
Appoline gave Fleur another concerned look. "What's bothering you about 'arry, my angel?"
Fleur's mouth started rambling before she could stop herself. "'arry's cute! I never thought about it before, but then last visit I realised that he's cute! And not 'Gabrielle' cute, but cute cute! And now I'm all nervous! Mama, I'm never nervous about 'arry visiting, but now I'm scared – what if he notices? Will he want to stop cuddling, or holding my hand? What if he'd rather spend time with Gabrielle? Does he think I'm cute? Should I just ask him? Should I try to wear something nice? Do you think he'd like it if I plaited my hair?"
A look of realisation hit Fleur mid-ramble, and so another stream of consciousness began. "Mama, we share a room! I'm sharing a room with a cute boy! Mama, what if 'arry hates how I look in the morning? Or if my breath smells? Do I need to get up first, and brush my teeth before he wakes up?"
Appoline, valiantly, managed not to laugh. Honestly, she was feeling both relieved and pleased - relieved that there wasn't anything she would consider to be a real problem, and pleased that Fleur's apparent first crush was someone like Harry. Appoline wasn't naive enough to think this guaranteed her a son-in-law down the line, but it was a pleasant thought!
Whatever her inward thoughts, outwardly Appoline managed to wear a mask of concern. "Fleur, angel, breathe! I don't think you need to be worried, my angel."
Fleur gave her Mama a look which suggested Fleur believed there to be every reason to be worried.
Appoline smiled gently. "'arry is your best friend, and has been for years. He's already seen you in the morning, and he hasn't abandoned you yet, has he?"
Fleur shook her head; her Mama had a point. Appoline continued. "Besides, he is a little younger and a boy, and they are terrible at noticing things like that. Your Papa definitely is!"
Fleur gave a small chuckle at the joke, and thought about it some more. After a minute, she frowned. "So 'arry probably won't be interested in kissing for a while?"
Appoline couldn't help it – it was Sebastian's influence she was sure – the words just charged out if her mouth before she could stop them. "Kissing, Fleur?"
Fleur blushed red and snapped her mouth shut, glaring at her Mama for unearthing such an important secret. She had thought a lot about kissing Harry over the last couple of weeks, but she would not talk to her Mama about that!
Fleur's silence meant that Appoline could make a related point, and honestly it may be difficult for Fleur to accept. "Fleur, my angel?"
Fleur wore a guarded expression. "Mama?"
"Even when 'arry is interested in kissing, you may want to wait a while before doing anything."
Fleur gave a sceptical look. That sounded like a terrible idea.
"Fleur, relationships are much easier when you're at the same school, or living near each other. Besides, you might meet someone at Beauxbatons who is even cuter." A less preferable outcome, but perhaps more likely.
Fleur, however, looked scandalised. "No, that's not going to happen Mama!"
...
"Fleur!" "'arry!"
Seconds later, the two were embracing, holding onto each other as if nothing in the world could be more important. As Harry eventually let go, Fleur placed a kiss on each of his cheeks, blushing a little as she did so.
Then it was to the sofa, for cuddles and conversation. And if Fleur's hands were more liable to caress Harry's arm, or squeeze his hand, Harry didn't appear to mind.
From their vantage point, Appoline and Sebastian grinned. "Has she stopped controlling her allure already?" Sebastian asked.
Appoline smirked and nodded. "Oh, she has it bad!"
Far sooner than Fleur wanted, it was time for Gabrielle to see Harry. "'ARRY! 'arry here! 'arry time! My turn!"
Harry smiled, gave Fleur's hand one last squeeze, then sat up just in time for Gabrielle to charge into his legs. Harry dutifully lifted her up onto his lap, and looked at the book she was holding. 'The Boy Who Lived'.
Putting on his cheeriest voice – which was hard, given how he disliked that particular book! – Harry gave Gabrielle his full attention. "Hello Gabrielle! How is my wonderful little sister?"
"I good! It my turn now? You read me story?" Asked Gabrielle, hopefully.
Harry chuckled affectionately. "Of course it is. Are you sure this is the story you want?"
Gabrielle nodded, confident. "This one first. Then next one. You read more stories."
Harry's chuckle became a laugh. He checked the time – it was not long before Gabrielle's bedtime. "I'll read you stories all the way to bedtime."
Gabrielle looked like Christmas had come early.
...
After Gabrielle had gone to bed, Fleur and Harry were inseparable, as expected. But this time, Fleur's allure was pouring out of her. At bedtime, Harry commented on it. "I really liked feeling your allure this evening, Fleur. It's been really nice."
Fleur smiled, then asked a question a little nervously. "Tell me again how it feels?"
Harry smiled, looking at Fleur from across the metre or so between their beds. "It just feels so nice! It's warm, and relaxing, and it just feels like you, and I really like it!"
Fleur smiled; she was glad Harry enjoyed it, and that it didn't stop him from talking to her. Though she might've preferred it if Harry had wanted to kiss her. But her Mama was probably right – Harry was only eight, and it would probably be a long while before he thought about any girl in that way.
Sighing, Fleur saw they still had a little longer before Mama and Papa would expect them to be asleep, so Fleur moved the conversation to one of their favourite topics – their future house together.
"'arry? Do you know how much we have saved for our house?"
Harry shook his head. "I haven't checked since Easter. I think we had about a hundred galleons, though!"
"Did Papa say you got some pocket money from the secret place in Hogwarts?"
"Oh yeah! I'd forgotten about that. I don't think it's a lot, but I wanted it to go towards our house. I didn't ask how much: your Papa said it was just some pocket money, so if it's a few galleons that would be nice."
...
It was just after Christmas when Harry and Fleur next checked their vault – they had wanted to sooner, but there was always something more fun to do... and unbeknownst to them, Sebastian and Appoline had tried to delay them finding out the vault's new value as long as possible.
But Harry and Fleur had made a pact over Christmas that half the money they received from now on would go into the shared vault; since they had both received some money over Christmas, they were eager to put half in and count the new total.
Sebastian and Appoline knew they had done well keeping the children unaware for as long as they had, so with a sense of resignation the Delacours, plus Harry, visited the French branch of Gringotts.
Fleur and Harry approached the stern goblin at the teller station. "Hello Mr. Goblin. We wanted to put some money into our vault."
Smashface looked up, irritated. Wizard children barely had enough gold to be counted, so this would certainly be a waste of his time. "Name?" He asked, gruffly.
"Fleur Delacour and Harry Potter"
Smashface's expression changed to one of eagerness. Well well well! These might be worthwhile customers after all!
"Do you have your key?" he asked, a little less gruffly.
Harry and Fleur nodded, holding out their keys.
"Just one will suffice", stated Smashface, then took Fleur's. After a moment... "Follow me. I will show you to your new vault, and then we can get you new keys".
Harry and Fleur looked at each other confused. New vault? Fleur asked the question. "Erm, Mr. Goblin? What do you mean, 'new vault'? Was there a problem with the old one?"
Smashface nodded. "Of course. Your old one ran out of space."
Harry and Fleur were now very confused! Their old vault – no bigger than a locker, really – could hold hundreds, maybe even a thousand galleons! Had someone filled their vault with Knuts?
But they weren't even going near their old vault. They were going in a completely different direction, towards the grown up vaults. What was going on?
After a cart ride – which Harry and Fleur both enjoyed, even if it was a bit frightening – they stopped outside vault number 562.
"Your new vault" stated Smashface. And then he opened it, and Fleur and Harry almost fell over in shock.
Fleur and Harry knew there must be some mistake! Their vault had a hundred or so Galleons in it, but this one had thousands!
Before Fleur and Harry could say anything, Sebastian stepped in to explain. "'arry, you know how I mentioned the 'pocket money' from opening the hidden chamber in 'ogwarts?"
Harry nodded dumbly, unable to speak.
"Well, before you arrived I agreed with Albus, the headmaster, that you were to get 5% of the value of anything in the chamber. It turns out the Basilisk was worth a lot of money - as parts for potion ingredients, and for it's skin. Your 5% was about 50,000 galleons."
Slowly, realisation rose in Harry, as did the big smile on his face. "This is really all mine and Fleur's?"
"No!", interjected Fleur. "'arry, that's your money, you can't put it all in our shared vault!"
Harry sighed. "Ok, Fleur." Going in, Harry picked up one Galleon. Then, turning to Fleur with a cheeky smile, Harry held up the Galleon. "There. Now it hasn't all gone in."
Fleur was half amused, half exasperated. "'arry, that's your money!"
Harry nodded. "And now it's yours too. Besides, we must have enough for a house now!"
Sebastian decided to ruin the moment. "Honestly, it depends what size house you want. For a small house or flat, yes. For something as big as our house? Nearly, but not quite."
Harry and Fleur wore matching expressions at that – eyes wide, mouths open. Houses were expensive! But both were determined: a small house was good – enough for sleepovers! – but if they could save for a big house, with enough space for Gabrielle and Fleur's Mama and Papa to visit, then they would.
...
The next several months passed quickly, and before they knew it Fleur had turned eleven, Harry had turned nine, and Gabrielle had turned three. And in the Delacour home, Harry and Fleur were cuddled up on their favourite sofa, feeling very sad.
"I'm going to miss you, Fleur".
Fleur nodded, sadly. "I'm excited about Beauxbatons, but I'm sad that I won't see you until Christmas, 'arry".
Harry squeezed Fleur's hand. "Do you think you'll get an owl? Then we could write to each other."
Fleur nodded, then kissed Harry's cheek; she'd been doing that a lot more over the last year. "Of course. Though I wish there was a way we could talk whilst we were at school."
"Well, it just so happens that everyone's favourite uncle might be able to help", came a familiar voice from the hallway.
"Uncle Siri!" "Uncle Woof!"
"Hey Pups. So yeah, Uncle Woof is awesome, and has a present for you"
Fleur and Harry looked curious, their sadness temporarily forgotten. "What is it, Uncle Woof?"
Sirius handed them a wrapped present each. Harry and Fleur eagerly opened them, to find they each had a mirror.
"Uncle Siri?"
Sirius smiled. "These are magic mirrors, and they're connected. Simply say the other person's name, and you can see them in the mirror and speak to them." Turning to Harry, he then added, "Your dad and I used them all the time when we were in different detentions at school. Hopefully you can enjoy them as much as we did."
Fleur and Harry nodded, eyes wet, then hug-attacked their uncle.
...
Later, after all the children were asleep, Appoline had a question for Sirius. "Sirius, that was very kind of you. I know you had planned to use them to talk to 'arry when he goes to 'ogwarts."
Sirius gave a rueful smile. "I know it's silly, but I still feel I owe him, Appoline."
Appoline looked confused. "How do you mean?"
"The night James and Lily..." It was still such a painful memory. "The night they died, I was a fool. We loved baby Harry, and were all meant to be there for him, but I was just distraught, and angry, and everyone was celebrating even though James and Lily had..."
Another pause. "And all I could think of was revenge. Honestly, I knew the aurors would be after me, but instead of setting things straight I went for revenge. I let Harry down, and it was only because of you and Sebastian that I got another chance."
Sebastian's voice joined the conversation. "You were an idiot. Had we not been there, it would have been a disaster. But because we love 'arry, we were there."
Sirius nodded glumly.
"But...", Sebastian continued, "I think you've more than made up for it over the past eight years, Sirius. You made a mistake, and suffered a few days in Azkaban for it, but then you went right back to being the Godfather you should have been."
Sirius gave Sebastian and Appoline thankful smiles. He had been the best Godfather he could be since his trial, and would continue to be. Thinking back to how the conversation started he smiled a little wider – he could always make more mirrors.
chapter 10
Gabrielle had often felt sad over the last couple of months, as she had been missing her sister terribly since Fleur started Beauxbatons. Fleur had written a few letters, which her Mama had read to her, and Gabrielle had dictated letters back, but it wasn't the same and Gabrielle was looking forward to Christmas.
Today, however, Gabrielle was feeling excited. In fact, she was currently looking out of a window (whilst bouncing up and down with excitement, Appoline noted) into her front garden, waiting for the source of her excitement to appear.
Sure enough, a minute later two figures appeared in the front garden. "arry! It's 'arry! He here Mama! He here! He come to play!"
Gabrielle raced to the front door, and the second it was open she had charged past her Papa and straight into Harry's open arms. Harry, better prepared than the first time Gabrielle had done this, lifted her up and span her around, enjoying the giggles and laughter that came from his honorary sister. After he'd stopped spinning, but whilst still holding her, Harry spoke. "Hello Gabrielle! I missed you! How have you been?"
Gabrielle wrapped her legs around Harry's waist and snuggled into his arms. "I miss you too! And I miss Fleur! But I happy you're here!"
Harry carried Gabrielle into the living room whilst he replied. "I miss her too. But Christmas is next month, only thirty days away, so it won't be long before you see her again. Oh, but I have an idea I think you'll like."
Gabrielle, now sat on Harry's lap on the usual sofa, looked up at Harry with big, curious (and, Harry thought, adorable) eyes. "What idea? Is it good idea?"
Harry nodded. "A really good idea." Then, holding up a mirror, Harry asked, "Do you know what this is?"
...
Fleur's time at Beauxbatons so far had been mixed. She loved learning magic, and was far ahead in potions thanks to the lessons she'd had with her Mama and Papa; she'd also made some friends, though all girls, as expected. But on the downside, the number of boys who had asked her out was ridiculous! She was eleven, for goodness sake, and at least three of the boys had been seventeen! She had no interest in dating anyone (well, no-one here in France), and was getting fed up with having to constantly turn people down.
But that had been expected. What had not been expected was the issue she now had with Pauline, a girl in her year. Pauline had seemed friendly enough initially, but when the subject of Harry Potter had come up one evening, and Fleur had stated that she knew him, Pauline had been unbelieving. And the more Fleur had insisted it was true – he was her best friend after all! - the more Pauline had mocked and teased her about it. Fleur, wanting to avoid the conflict, had stopped mentioning Harry, but that was only evidence to Pauline that Fleur had been lying all along, and at least two other girls had fallen out with her over it.
Still, it was a lesson that Fleur would learn from, and she was determined it would not spoil her time at school. And, as if to reward her for her mature approach, her mirror vibrated and a voice called her name. "Fleur? Are you there?"
Grinning, Fleur quickly tucked a few loose strands of hair behind her ears, picked up the mirror, and answered the call... then felt her heart melt at the adorable sight in front of her.
It was clearly a Harry weekend, as Harry was currently sat on 'their' sofa, his warm, cute eyes staring at her, but that wasn't the adorable part. The adorable part was Gabrielle snuggled into his lap, staring at her as if seeing a unicorn for the first time.
"FLEUR! I CAN SEE FLEUR!"
Fleur smiled merrily. "Hello Gabrielle! I've missed you"
"AND I CAN HEAR HER, 'ARRY!"
"She can hear you too, dear sister. She talking to us through the mirror", explained Harry.
"THIS IS SO EXCITING!"
Fleur laughed; speaking to Harry and Gabrielle was just what she needed. "So, Gabrielle, tell me all about your day"
...
Later, after Gabrielle had gone to bed and while Sebastian was using Harry's mirror to talk to Fleur, Appoline was spending some time with her Godson. On this occasion, Harry had his head in Appoline's lap, whilst she stroked his hair – something which led to the current conversation.
"Never?", asked Appoline, surprised.
Harry gave a half-hearted mumble to confirm; Appoline was making him feel so relaxed.
"I just assumed... I mean, you spend so much time cuddled up together, or holding hands, that I assumed you would have. I know Fleur loves it when I brush her hair, I'm surprised she's never asked you to do it", Appoline explained in a soft voice.
Harry could understand – he'd never had anyone stroke his hair before (at least, not that he could remember), and it felt really good to have someone run their fingers through it, and apply light pressure on his scalp.
"Appoline?"
"Yes, my little cabbage?"
Harry smiled at the term of endearment. "What else does Fleur like?", he asked, a little sleepily.
Appoline grinned, wondering if Harry realised how the question could be perceived. He was likely still too young to be thinking of romance, but his deep affection for Fleur, even if only platonic, was obvious. "Well, there are a few other things she likes..."
...
The next day, Gabrielle was in heaven. She knew, absolutely, that this day couldn't get any better – because Harry wanted to learn how to nicely brush a girl's hair, and Gabrielle was volunteered as tribute.
At first, Appoline had shown Harry how she would run her hands through Gabrielle's hair to just play with it, and how Fleur's hair might be different. Then, Harry had his turn, and with Appoline's careful guidance he was relaxing Gabrielle almost to the point of slumber.
Normally, Appoline would only do this for so long, as less important matters (like cooking dinner, making potions, or really anything short of saving the world) would get in the way; but Harry was determined to practise, and practice, and practice... Gabrielle had the best big brother in the world! And when Harry had stopped, and Gabrielle feared her morning of bliss was finished, her Mama merely declared that hair playing was done and that it was now time for Harry to learn about hair brushing, and Gabrielle could have melted with joy.
The whole morning was passed in this way, and then Gabrielle's earlier thought – that the day couldn't get any better - was proved wrong. "Gabrielle, my little fly? You've been so good and patient this morning whilst 'arry was practicing; how about we buy lunch from the bakery as a treat?".
Gabrielle, in unbridled joy, then performed her first burst of accidental magic: she floated half a metre off of Harry's lap.
...
The rest of the weekend sped by, but afterwards time passed very slowly for Harry. He was constantly counting down the days until the next Delacour weekend, when he could see Fleur again; the mirrors were a help, but Harry really wanted to see her properly.
Finally, it was Christmas Eve. When Sebastian knocked on the door, Harry said goodbye to the Dursleys, made sure his presents for them (chocolates for Vernon and Dudley, and a bubble bath gift set for Petunia) were under the tree, then joyfully grabbed Sebastian's hand to be whisked away.
Once the two landed in France, Harry ran towards the front door, but it was opened before he got there and an excited Fleur flung herself into his arms.
"Oh 'arry, I've missed you so much!", Fleur half-laughed, half-cried.
"I've missed you too, Fleur. Really, really missed you", Harry replied, soaking in Fleur's warmth.
Only at Sebastian's gentle teasing – "Are you two going to stand there like that all day, in the cold?" – did the pair let go of each other, enough for Fleur to place two long kisses on Harry's cheek and then pull him inside.
As Gabrielle was in the living room, and Fleur had no intention of sharing her first few minutes of Harry time, Fleur led Harry up to their bedroom and pulled him into a tight hug the moment their door was shut. After a minute they settled into an approximation of their usual sofa-cuddle on Fleur's bed - wrapped up in each others arms, with Harry's right hand holding Fleur's left - and the two could catch up as usual. After Fleur had kissed Harry's cheek a couple more times, that is.
They had much to catch up on, and Fleur was desperately hoping she would be allowed more time than usual. And whilst it didn't feel like it when Gabrielle came charging into the room to demand her Harry time, she had been cuddled up and talking with Harry for about fifteen minutes – longer than the five or so she usually claimed by right.
For the rest of the day, Gabrielle was relentless: she, too, had missed both Harry and Fleur, and was determined to get as much attention from one or both of them as she could. And whilst Fleur was tempted to begrudge her sister, Fleur knew that she had probably seen more of Harry - courtesy of the mirrors – than Gabrielle had during the last two Harry weekends.
Although after Harry had read Gabrielle more than her allotted bedtime stories ("and another story, 'arry?"), Fleur wasted no time in grabbing some snacks, saying a very early goodnight to her Mama and Papa, then dragging Harry (very willingly) up to their room so they could finish catching up.
And if that catch up happened to include Harry and Fleur cuddled on Fleur's bed, Fleur kissing Harry's cheek very often, and Fleur's allure absolutely pouring off of her... well, Fleur was sure she could cope.
...
Harry had kept a secret from Fleur. He hadn't needed to keep it for long, but it had been very difficult nonetheless. And as he woke up on Christmas morning, he knew she would find out soon. He thought he could guess her reaction, but he was nervous – what if he was wrong, and she was upset?
Harry managed to distract himself through breakfast, especially when Gabrielle had climbed onto his lap, pulled her plate over from where it had been sitting, and declared "My new chair!".
But then breakfast was over, and the Delacours and Harry moved into the living room. Appoline, knowing Harry was worried, picked up his present for Fleur – which also contained his secret – and passed it to her. "Open this present first, my angel."
Fleur looked at it, confused. It was just an envelope - and not even a heavy one – so she would usually have left it for near the end. But, curious, she opened it up. Inside was a card, which she opened, then her eyes started to widen as she read:
Dear Fleur,
Instead of buying you something, this year I thought I'd do something for you.
This is your voucher for one hour of hair brushing – I've been secretly practicing on Gabrielle so I can do it well.
Love,
Your best friend, Harry x
Fleur looked at Harry, who was obviously nervous; perhaps at the lack of a 'real' present. But as Fleur's face burst into a wide, joyous smile – he was just so cute! – relief flooded through Harry... just in time for Fleur to kiss his cheek lovingly.
"You were practicing just for me?" Fleur asked.
Harry nodded, a small smile on his lips.
"Let's hurry up and open the rest of the presents!" Fleur declared. "I want this one before Christmas lunch!"
...
Fleur had no idea why she hadn't asked Harry to do this before, other than she hadn't thought about it – Harry weekends were usually filled with so many fun things, and she'd obviously been distracted. But sat here, with Harry running his hands through her hair... oh, it was magnificent!
They were sat on Fleur's bed, with Harry sat behind Fleur, leaning against the headboard. Harry's fingers were running through Fleur's soft, golden hair – sometimes playing with the hair that cascaded down her back, but other times running his fingers right up into her scalp, almost massaging her as he played with her roots. Fleur was mewling in pleasure - this was as good as when her Mama or Papa did it, except Harry was doing it for far longer!
Harry had no intention of stopping. Veela hair was magical by nature – it had to be, to be able to form a wand core – and even if Fleur wasn't fully Veela (though Harry was admittedly sketchy about that detail), her hair carried enough magic to feel really good when Harry played with it: like a pleasurable tingling in his fingers. Hearing his best friend so obviously enjoying her Christmas present, Harry was even less inclined to stop.
Though when the time got too late, and Sebastian came up to tell them it was only about twenty minutes until lunch – and that Fleur's hair would probably need brushing before they came down – Harry had to stop hair playing and start hair brushing. And whilst Harry preferred running his fingers through Fleur's hair than running a comb through it, Fleur was in delightful bliss either way.
...
Gabrielle had been distracted with new toys during the morning, but after lunch she was determined to get her share of Harry's time. And when Harry suggested he could play with her hair, Gabrielle was delighted. Fleur, trying to be the best big sister she could, decided that she would trace patterns along Gabrielle's palms – something her sister also enjoyed – at the same time. Gabrielle was thus turned into metaphorical, blissful mush.
Whilst Harry's hands were helping to render Gabrielle utterly incapable of any coherent thought (well, what counts as coherent for a three year old), he noted that Gabrielle's hair didn't feel magical like Fleur's did.
"Fleur?"
"Yes, 'arry?"
"How come your hair feels magical, but Gabrielle's doesn't?"
Fleur smiled at the question; she really needed to get Harry a book on the Veela. "When her Allure appears, so too will the rest of her Veela magic, though the magic will then grow over time. Her hair probably has very little magic in it for now"
Harry smiled in thanks for the explanation, then returned his full attention to his little sister.
...
The rest of Christmas day was filled with laughter and fun – Sirius popped by with Cheveu in the afternoon ("are you two still not kissing yet?!"), and then Remus popped by briefly to exchange presents – though as he was recovering from the recent full moon, he didn't stay long.
All too soon, though, the day – and then the Delacour visit – had ended, and Fleur and Harry were holding tightly to each other, soaking in the warmth of one final hug before they said goodbye until next time.
...
The year progressed in much the same way – Gabrielle enjoying bonus Harry time when Fleur was at school, and Harry and Fleur regularly talking through mirrors and then cuddling each other a silly amount during school holidays.
Before long it was summer, Fleur had turned twelve, Harry had turned ten, Gabrielle had turned four, and Fleur was torn.
On one hand, Harry still hadn't shown any interest in kissing, which was terribly unfair. When would her best friend hit puberty and start desiring her?!
On the other hand, Fleur had started to see the wisdom of her Mama's words from two years ago. Fleur had tried to study the relationships of anyone at Beauxbatons who dated from another school, and the results saddened her – of the five she knew of, all had ended within a year. The distance had always been too much.
She had no interest in dating anyone from her own school – there was only one boy who could even hold a conversation with her, and she was quite certain that was because no girl held his interest – but the thought of having to wait so long for Harry wasn't appealing. Well, Harry had only just turned ten, and her Mama said that girls notice these things earlier than boys; if she had to pine after her best friend for a while longer, she would. After all, she was quite sure that to an outsider, they probably looked like they were dating – with the hand-holding, cuddling, hair playing, etc. – and that would have to be enough... for now.