Severus was jolted awake by an ear-splitting scream that shattered the quiet darkness of the night. Reacting swiftly, he seized his wand and bolted out of his quarters towards the origin of the commotion - Harry Potter's room.
Upon entering the room, Severus meticulously surveyed the area for any signs of intruders but found none and he stowed his wand away. His focus swiftly turned to the boy, who was thrashing wildly in his bed, ensnared in his covers, and screeching as though confronting death itself.
Acting promptly, Snape approached the bed, adroitly freeing Harry from the covers and cradling him in his arms. He sat down on the edge of the bed, gently swaying the child while uttering calming words to him.
"Shh, Harry. You're safe now. It's only a nightmare. Nothing can harm you at Hogwarts."
Snape's tranquilizing voice seemed to cut through the haze of Harry's dream. Gradually, the boy's sobs receded, and he lifted his tear-streaked face to gaze up at his professor.
Snape tenderly brushed the hair from Harry's face and gently asked, "Do you know where you are, Harry?"
"In Hogwarts," came the muffled reply.
"Very good. Now, can you tell me what your nightmare was about?"
Harry's body shook with the force of his sobs, as Severus held him close, offering him the warmth and comfort as he struggled with his emotions. He gently rocked Harry back and forth, attempting to soothe him so he could speak.
"I know it hurts Harry to remember and talk about it right now, but I promise you will feel better afterword," said Severus in a comforting tone.
Harry, who was finding it difficult to hold back his tears, simply pleaded, "Please."
Without hesitation, Severus conjured a soft, warm washcloth and tenderly wiped away the tears streaming down Harry's face.
"Take your time, Harry. I'm here to listen whenever you're ready," Severus whispered, his voice soft and soothing.
The gentle tone of Severus's request overwhelmed Harry. He had never been asked to do anything before; people had always demanded he do things.
"I...I dreamt about...about when my Aunt took me to the doctor..." Harry's voice trailed off, his words choking in his throat.
Without a second thought, Severus adjusted the child's position so that his head was now cradled on Severus's strong shoulder. He held Harry tightly, a gesture of comfort and support. He remembered Severus recalled how Don had comforted him in a similar way when he was a child, seeking reassurance that he wasn't alone. He hoped to give Harry the same kind of support.
"How old were you Harry? Was that the only time she took you to see a medical professional?" Severus asked softly, his voice laced with concern.
Harry's head bobbed up and down against Severus's shoulder, the weight of the memories too much for him to bear. His breaths came in ragged gasps as he tried to calm himself enough to speak.
"I was just five years old," Harry finally managed to choke out in a strained whisper. "My school said I had to have a physical."
Severus listened intently, his heart heavy with empathy. He knew all too well the trauma that could be inflicted on a child's mind and body at the hands of cruel adults. But he also knew that talking about the past was the first step towards healing.
With a soothing touch, Severus encouraged Harry to speak up. "Keep going, Harry," he said calmly, his hand tracing gentle circles on the child's back. "You're safe here with me."
As the boy recounted the traumatic events that had taken place, his voice quivered with fear and confusion. "I saw the man in the white coat slip something into my aunt's hand and then she left the room. I was left alone with him," he whispered, tears welling up in his eyes.
Severus listened attentively, his heart heavy with concern. The child's words confirmed his worst fears, and he felt a surge of anger building up inside him. However, he knew that now was not the time to give in to his fury. He had to provide comfort to the boy and reassure him that he had someone to rely on.
Severus held Harry tight as the boy trembled with sobs, his small body wracked with emotional pain. "What happened in the office, Harry? After your aunt left?" he asked, his voice gentle but firm.
Harry's voice quavered as he spoke, the pain and fear evident in every word. "He said it was just a routine check-up, but I knew...I knew something wasn't right," he whispered, his voice breaking with the weight of his emotions.
Severus felt the tears as they seeped through his shirt, his heart aching with compassion for the traumatized child in his arms. He drew Harry even closer, his embrace a shield against the boy's anguish. With a gentle rocking motion, he rubbed small circles on Harry's back, offering comfort through the physical connection.
Harry's chest heaved as he tried to speak through his tears. His sobs echoed in the empty room, the sound of his pain almost unbearable. Finally, he managed to choke out the words, "I'm . . . I'm . . . s . . . sorry!"
"It's okay, Harry. You have nothing to be sorry for," Severus whispered into the boy's ear, his voice soft and comforting. He could feel the pain and confusion radiating off of the child and
Harry's tears continued to soak through Severus' shirt as he clung to the man's shoulder, his small frame shaking with sobs. Severus held him tightly, his heart aching with the pain and sorrow he felt emanating from the child.
As the minutes ticked by, Harry's sobs gradually began to subside, and he pulled back slightly, sniffling and wiping his eyes. "I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Severus smiled gently, his eyes filled with compassion. "As I said, there's nothing to be sorry for, Harry. You did nothing wrong. You're safe here with me, and we'll get through this together." He held out a handkerchief to the boy, offering it to him with a warm smile. "Here, let's dry those tears."
A stillness settled over the room as Harry clung to Severus, his heart heavy with unspeakable pain. The silence was thick with unspoken words, as if the weight of Harry's suffering was too much to bear.
Then, Severus broke the quiet, his voice soft and comforting. "Can you tell me what happened, Harry? I know it's hard, but talking about it can help us overcome it."
Harry's shoulders shook as he shook his head, his eyes filled with tears. "I...I can't," he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Severus could see the fear and shame etched on the child's face, and knew that he needed to tread lightly. He didn't want to push Harry further than he was ready to go.
"It's okay, Harry," Severus said, his tone gentle and understanding. "We don't have to talk about it right now. Whenever you're ready, I'm here to listen. You don't have to go through this alone."
Severus noticed that Harry's trembling began to subside almost immediately after he spoke. With a gentle yet firm tone, he continued, "Although we won't dwell on what happened, Harry, I want to assure you that you are safe here. You will never have to endure that kind of pain and suffering again, not under my watch, nor under Don's or any of the other teachers' care. My promise to you is one that I intend to keep, for I do not make promises that I cannot fulfill."
As Harry leaned against Severus's sturdy shoulder, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. For the first time in his life, he felt like he could trust someone. Severus's unwavering loyalty and dedication to his students were reassuring, and Harry found himself nodding in agreement.
After casting a silent tempus charm to check the time, Severus realized that it was almost two in the morning. He knew that Harry needed more rest, and so he gently urged him to lie down and try to sleep a little longer. "It's late, Harry. You need your rest. I'll stay here with you until you fall asleep," he said, his voice low and soothing.
Severus bent down to tuck the covers around Harry's small frame, making sure he was comfortable and warm. "Now remember, Harry," he whispered softly. "If you wake I'm right next door. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to come and get me."
But before Harry could even utter a response, sleep overtook his body and he was soon snoring peacefully. Severus watched him for a moment, his heart heavy with sadness. It was hard to fathom the amount of pain and hurt that such a young child had endured. How could anyone hurt a child and in that way? It was beyond him.
With a heavy sigh, Severus picked up the still-warm washcloth and began to gently wipe away the last traces of tear stains from Harry's face. As he did so, he couldn't help but feel a sense of anger and frustration towards those who had caused the child so much suffering. Relatives, no matter how distant, were supposed to love and care for their young ones, not subject them to physical and emotional abuse, starvation, and even worse, sell their bodies.
Severus felt his stomach churn with a sickening sensation as the images of Harry's suffering flooded his mind. He stumbled to the bathroom, feeling a sense of nausea overcome him. As he knelt over the toilet, he emptied his stomach, the acrid taste of bile filling his mouth. He had barely eaten anything earlier, and now he regretted having consumed anything at all.
Severus sat back against the cold porcelain of the bathtub, breathing heavily as he tried to calm himself down. With shaking hands, he fished out the delicate doe pendant from his pocket and called Don, hoping he would answer.
After a minute, he heard the distinct sound of Don flooing into his chambers, and soon enough, he saw his friend's figure materialize in the bathroom door frame. Don, still in his nightclothes, immediately knelt by Severus's side, concern etched on his features.
"What's wrong, Severus? Are you feeling unwell?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.
Severus felt embarrassed as Don noticed the mess he had made, forgetting to clean up before calling him in. He hung his head in shame, feeling like he had failed in some way. Don, however, seemed unfazed by the mess, instead choosing to check on Severus's wellbeing first.
Don placed a hand on Severus's forehead, feeling for any signs of fever or illness. Satisfied that Severus wasn't sick, Don moved his hand down to his stomach. After a moment of contemplation, Don produced a potion from his pocket, offering it to Severus.
"It's a stomach soother. It'll make you feel better," Don said reassuringly.
Severus took the potion gratefully, his hand shaking slightly as he brought the vial to his lips. He drank it in one gulp, feeling the soothing effects of the potion almost immediately. He let out a sigh of relief as the nausea faded away.
Don gave Severus some time to recover, allowing him to catch his breath and regain his composure. It must be something serious for such a violent reaction.
Once Severus seemed to be feeling better, Don asked him what had caused him to become so ill. "What made you lose your dinner like that, Severus? I've seen you come back from Death Eater meetings in better shape than this," Don said, his expression one of concern.
Severus closed his eyes, trying to compose himself. He knew he shouldn't let his emotions get the best of him, but the thought of Harry being hurt in such a way made his blood boil.
Don, sensing Severus' distress, placed a calming hand on his shoulder and sent a touch of soothing magic his way. The gentle warmth that radiated from Don's touch helped ease Severus' racing thoughts.
"Harry had a nightmare," Severus finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper.
Don nodded in understanding, though he couldn't fathom why Severus was so upset. "Did he reveal something troubling?"
Severus took a deep breath before answering. "Yesterday, you asked him if anyone had ever touched him inappropriately."
Don nodded again, his expression serious. "I remember. I thought it would be more comfortable for him to talk to a Healer about it."
Severus clenched his jaw, his hands balling into fists. "He lied to you," he said through gritted teeth. "He was afraid, I suppose. His aunt...that wretched woman...sold him to a Muggle doctor. I don't know the details, but I know enough."
Don sat down heavily next to Severus, his expression somber as he tried to process the information he had just heard. "No wonder Harry felt uncomfortable alone with me or Poppy," he said, his voice heavy with regret. "He must have thought...oh Merlin!"
Severus nodded slowly, his eyes cast down. "I...I don't know whether I can do this," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Don placed a comforting hand on Severus' shoulder. "Let me ask you something, Severus," he said gently. "What did you do when you heard Harry having a nightmare?"
Severus looked up at him, confusion etched on his face. "I did what any adult would do," he said. "I held him until he calmed down and tried to have him tell me what he dreamt about."
Don shook his head. "Not everyone would do that, Severus," he said firmly. "Only someone who cares."
Severus felt a small sarcastic smile tug at the corners of his mouth. "You really think I can help him?" he asked, his voice laced with doubt.
Don nodded. "I know you can," he said. "Now quit doubting yourself and go to bed!"
Severus stood up slowly, his body still weak from his recent illness. Before he could take another step, however, Don was on his feet and offering him a helping hand. "Take it easy, Severus," he said, his eyes filled with concern. "You were just sick, and you're tired."
Severus's face burned with embarrassment as Don helped him out of the bathroom and into bed. He was still weak from his recent illness and felt like a burden on his friend. But as soon as his head hit the pillow, he was out cold. Don chuckled softly to himself as he watched Severus sleep.
"Oh, Severus, I'm never going to rest with you around," he muttered affectionately.
As he tiptoed out of the room, Don noticed that the door to Harry's room was slightly ajar. Curiosity getting the better of him, he quietly slipped inside to check on the boy. But what he saw wasn't the sleeping child that Severus had left behind. Instead, Harry sat up in bed, looking at Don with wide, fearful eyes.
"Hi there, Harry. Is everything okay?" Don asked gently.
Harry gave a small nod, but Don could see the fear still lingering in his eyes. He sat down on the edge of the bed and placed a comforting hand on Harry's knee. The boy flinched at the touch, and Don's heart broke a little.
"It's okay, Harry. I'm just going to give you some calming magic," he said soothingly.
As he sent a flow of calming magic through Harry, Don could feel the tension leaving his body. He knew that the boy had been through a lot, and it would take time for him to trust anyone again. But Don and Severus were determined to show Harry that they were there to help him.
"I know it's hard to trust people, Harry. But Severus and I only have your best interests at heart," Don said softly.
He gently pushed Harry back onto the soft bed, urging him to get some rest. "Try to get some sleep, Harry. I'll be back in the morning to check on you, okay?"
Harry nodded sleepily, and Don sent enough calming magic into Harry to help the boy drift off into a peaceful slumber. He quietly closed the door behind him and then flooed back to his home so he could get some sleep before the morning arrived.
The next morning Severus jolted awake as the floo roared to life, disrupting his peaceful slumber. He rubbed his bleary eyes and glanced at the clock on his nightstand - six in the morning. Who on earth could be calling at this ungodly hour?
Throwing on a hastily assembled outfit, Severus stumbled out of his bedroom and made his way to the fireplace. His heart skipped a beat as he saw the name on the scroll beside the flames - Madam Roloon, Social Worker.
Severus furrowed his brow in confusion. Had Albus Dumbledore not completed the necessary paperwork? Was there more bureaucracy and red tape to contend with than he had anticipated? He hadn't even had a chance to speak with the boy about his guardianship yet. Couldn't the Ministry have given him a few days to prepare?
With a resigned sigh, Severus realized that the Ministry clearly didn't care about his schedule if there was already a social worker on his doorstep. He opened the floo and ushered the stern-looking woman inside.
Despite his best efforts to appear welcoming, Madam Roloon only sneered in disdain at Severus and refused to shake his outstretched hand. Severus couldn't help but feel uneasy about the woman's demeanor. This was not a promising start.
"What have you done with the boy?" Madam Roloon demanded, her tone accusatory.
Severus was taken aback. "I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you mean," he replied, genuine confusion etched on his features.
Madam Roloon's accusatory tone made Severus bristle with indignation. "What have you done to harm the boy and coax him into agreeing to stay with a death eater like you? Did you torture him, threaten him?" she repeated, her words dripping with venom.
Severus's jaw dropped in disbelief. How could this woman come into his home and make such outrageous accusations without any evidence? "I have done nothing of the sort!" he retorted, his voice rising with each word. "I think you misunderstand my intentions here. I found that his relatives were not treating him right, and I brought him here to be healed. I have not asked him whether he wants to be my ward yet, but I thought that until we can find someone better suited to the job, I am better than those muggles."
But Madam Roloon was not convinced. She continued to interrogate him, her eyes blazing with suspicion. "Again I ask, what did you do to him?"
Severus felt his anger mounting, but he forced himself to remain calm. "You want to know what I did? Then I'll tell you what I did," he said, his voice low and measured. "I healed his wounds and brought in help when I could not. I dried his tears after he cried on my shoulder. I woke him from a nightmare and comforted him. That is what I did. I cared for him."
Madam Roloon narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing Severus with a skeptical gaze. "Like I believe that! Where is he?" she demanded. "I am here on the Minister's orders to take the child back to him for further questioning of your misdeeds and then back to his relatives for recovery and until your firing."
Severus's heart sank at her words. He knew that he couldn't let Harry be taken away from him, not after he had been begged to not leave him along. Frantically, he sent a patronus to Albus, hoping that the Headmaster could intervene and stop this madness. He also grabbed the pendent around his neck, hoping that Don would be able to provide some assistance if things got further out of hand.
In a flash, the Headmaster emerged from the fireplace, followed closely by Don. As Albus took in the unfamiliar face before him, he turned to Severus, noticing the subtle flicker of anxiousness in his eyes.
"What's the matter, my boy?"
Severus took a deep breath, trying to quell the anger surging through him. "This social worker has been ordered by the Minister to take Harry away from me and have me fired. The Minister wants to send Harry back to his relatives for 'recovery.'"
Albus turned to face the social worker. "You cannot remove a child from Hogwarts unless his family requests it, or the child requires urgent medical attention. I have received no proper notification of the former, and I assure you, Harry is not in need of hospitalization."
But the woman paid no heed to Albus's words, and began flinging open doors with reckless abandon. "The Minister's orders are final. Now, either you tell me where the boy is, or I'll tear this place apart until I find him."
Albus sighed heavily. "Will you at least allow the boy's Healer to accompany him? He is quite fragile at the moment."
She waved her hand dismissively. "Fine, whatever. Does that mean I don't have to keep searching?"
Severus nodded, his expression grim. "Let me speak with Harry for a few minutes and explain what's happening. Then I'll bring him out."
With a sour look at Severus, the social worker realized she had little choice. "Fine. You have five minutes, and then I'm coming after you."
Severus walked towards Harry's room with a determined stride. As he opened the door, he was met with the sight of a scared, boy, crouching in the corner with his arms over his head. Severus felt a pang in his chest, seeing Harry in such a state.
Without wasting a moment, Severus came and sat next to the child, drawing him into his lap and wrapping his arms around him in a tight embrace. Harry's small frame shook with fear, and Severus felt a wave of protectiveness wash over him.
"I take it you heard what that lady was saying?" Severus asked softly, trying to keep his voice gentle.
A slow nod came from Severus's chest, and he let out a small sigh. He knew how hard this must be for Harry.
"I will fight them tooth and nail, Harry," Severus whispered, his voice low and fierce. "If they make you go back, it will only be for a short time, and Don will be with you the entire time. No one will be able to hurt you with him there. He will not let them. I promise you."
Severus felt Harry's body relax a little, and he knew that his words were having an impact. Although Harry might not fully trust Severus or Don yet, they had already done so much to help him, and actions always spoke louder than words.
But, would Don change once they got back to Pivot Drive, as others had? Harry sighed into Severus's arms, knowing that he really had no choice in the matter at all. He would find out eventually.
"Are you ready, Harry?" Severus asked gently.
Harry gave a small nod into Severus's chest, and Severus helped him to stand up. "You should be okay to walk on that ankle, but let someone know if it starts to hurt. Okay?"
Harry nodded and looked down at his feet. Severus took a shoulder in each hand and knelt before the boy.
"Look at me, Harry," he said softly.
Slowly, Harry's eyes met Severus's, and Severus let a small smile grace his face. "Your relatives might never have told you this, but what I'm about to tell you is true. You are a very special boy, Harry, and people care about you. I care about you. This lady might take you away today, but if you ever need me..."
Severus delved into his pocket and retrieved a delicate chain, adorned with a dainty pendant resembling a young fawn. Harry's eyes widened with awe at the sight of it. The piece was stunning, much like Severus' own, but with its own unique flair.
"It's... it's beautiful," Harry breathed in amazement.
"This is for you, Harry," Severus replied, his voice heavy with sincerity. "If you ever find yourself in need of my aid, hold it close and say my name. I will come to you as soon as I can. And if you require the assistance of Don, all you have to do is call for Healer Patterson, and he will be there."
Harry's eyes widened with surprise, unsure of what to say. "Are you sure?"
Severus nodded solemnly, unclasping the chain and placing it around Harry's neck. With a wave of his wand, Harry's attire transformed from his pajamas to his Hogwarts uniform.
"Thank you, sir," Harry said gratefully.
Severus gave a small smile. "There is no need to thank me, Harry. Come, let us go. The sooner we deal with the social worker, the sooner you can return to Hogwarts."
Severus rose to his feet, keeping his hand on Harry's shoulder as they exited the room. As they walked down the hallway, Severus stopped to put Harry's socks and shoes on his feet. He magically expanded one shoe to fit over the cast and tied them firmly. Severus had planned to ask Harry about his struggles with knots, but given the current situation, he decided against it.
Upon approaching the sitting room, Severus halted Harry with a gentle hand on his shoulder. The young boy appeared increasingly anxious with each step.
"Calm yourself, Harry. Take a deep breath," Severus instructed kindly, but quietly so only Harry could hear.
Harry obeyed, inhaling several deep breaths in succession. Miraculously, he seemed to become more at ease with every breath he took.
"How does your ankle feel?" Severus inquired with a hint of concern.
Harry shrugged his shoulders, still concentrating on his breathing. Severus took a deep breath, trying to contain his mounting frustration.
"Don will have to take a look at it then," he said with a hint of concern.
Harry nodded meekly, and the two continued their journey down the hallway and into the sitting room. As they arrived, Harry found himself suddenly enveloped in the arms of a woman he had never seen before. Instinctively, he flinched and tried to pull back, but her grip was too tight.
"What has he done to you? You poor thing, don't worry, we'll get you away from here immediately," she cooed, casting a disdainful glare at Severus.
"I... I don't understand what you mean," Harry stammered. "And... and I don't want to leave..."
"Nonsense, you're just stressed. Let's go now," the woman retorted, ignoring Harry's protests.
With a subtle nod from Severus, Harry reluctantly complied and allowed the woman to lead him away. Don, the kind-hearted healer who had tended to Harry's ankle, followed closely behind, offering reassuring words and a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder.
As they approached the fireplace to travel by Floo, Harry cast a pained glance over his shoulder at Severus. He could see that Albus was the only thing preventing the Potions Master from following them, and it was in that moment that Harry felt a sharp pang of loss. Though it had only been a single day since Severus had discovered the abuse Harry had endured, the boy had already grown to depend on the man he was now leaving behind.
As Harry stumbled out of the fireplace and onto the cold stone floor of the Ministry of Magic, his stomach twisted with nausea. Waves of dizziness washed over him, threatening to sweep him away. But a gentle hand rubbing circles on his back offered some comfort, and slowly the feeling began to subside.
With effort, Harry pushed himself up onto his knees, but his legs trembled beneath him. A shadow fell over him, and a warm hand reached out to help him stand. It was Don, one of the few people Harry was beginning to trust in this confusing, adult world.
"You okay now, Harry?" Don asked, his brown eyes kind and concerned.
Harry gave a weak nod, unable to form any words yet. Together, they followed Madam Roloon through a maze of corridors, their footsteps echoing in the empty spaces. But with each step, Harry's ankle throbbed with pain, making him limp more heavily.
Don noticed and caught up to the social worker, laying a hand on her shoulder. "Excuse me, but can we find somewhere to sit down? Harry's ankle is broken and it seems to be causing him pain. I need to look at it."
Madam Roloon huffed impatiently. "Can't it wait? The Minister is waiting for us. We're already late."
Don's eyebrows shot up into his hairline. "As a social worker, your top priority is the child's health and well-being. We need to take care of Harry's injury."
With a dramatic roll of her eyes, Madam Roloon relented. "Fine, but make it quick. We don't have all day."
Don turned back to Harry, his expression gentle. "I'm going to have to carry you, Harry. I don't want you to walk on that ankle anymore."
Harry nodded slowly, his eyes closed, and he burrowed into Don's embrace as he was picked up. He could feel the steady thump of Don's heart against his ear, and it was soothing, grounding him in the present moment. He didn't know what was going to happen next, but he felt like he was in good hands with Don and Severus.
Trust. It was a strange feeling, one that Harry hadn't experienced in his young life before. He had learned early on that trusting others could lead to pain and disappointment. But these men were different. They had shown him kindness and care, even when they didn't have to.
Without realizing it, tears had started to flow down Harry's cheeks, wetting the front of Don's robe. When he felt the dampness, Don looked down at him with concern. "What's the matter, Harry?"
Harry shook his head, unable to put into words the jumble of emotions he was feeling. Don sighed and found a nearby chair, settling into it with Harry still in his arms. He rearranged Harry gently, positioning him so that he was sitting sideways on his lap, with his injured ankle exposed.
Madam Roloon, the social worker, was not pleased. "What are you doing? We need to get Harry to the Minister's office."
Don's eyes flashed with anger. He rarely lost his cool, but when he did, it was a sight to behold. "Harry is in pain, and I need to tend to his medical needs. Can't you see that? Where is your compassion?"
The people passing by in the hallway were filled with curiosity as they took in the scene before them. The hushed whispers and sideways glances were almost tangible as they tried to figure out what was happening. It was then that a passerby recognized the small child cradled in Don's arms and rushed over to kneel before them.
"Harry, my goodness, are you okay?" the stranger asked, worry etched on his face.
Don's eyebrows rose at the man's concern for the boy in his arms. "Do you know Harry?" he asked, intrigued.
Looking up at Don, the man nodded solemnly. "He's my son's best friend. What happened to him?"
Don breathed out a sigh of relief, grateful to have encountered someone who knew Harry and seemed to care about his well being. "It's a long story, but right now he needs medical attention and this social worker won't let me tend to him," he explained.
Arthur Weasley, for that was who the stranger was, immediately understood the gravity of the situation.
"Don't worry about her, I'll handle it. You just focus on Harry," Arthur reassured Don before turning to confront the social worker leaving Don to care for Harry.
Don expressed his gratitude to the man who aided him, before maneuvering Harry to allow for a better view of his injured ankle. Upon rolling up the boy's pants, Don was taken aback by the inflamed flesh pushing against the cast. He carefully removed Harry's shoe and sock, which had been magically expanded to fit the cast. Don examined the ankle, observing signs of re-injury and couldn't help but let out a sigh as he saw the swollen limb pushing against the cast.
Utilizing a spell, Don skillfully removed the cast and began to delicately examine the injured area. Upon closer inspection, he discovered that Harry had somehow managed to displace the bone again, likely during his nightmare or when Severus found him in the corner that morning.
"It seems like you've hurt your ankle again, Harry. But don't worry, I'll get you all fixed up," Don reassured him with a warm smile.
With both hands placed firmly on Harry's ankle, Don channeled just the right amount of healing magic to mend the bone. He then took a piece of his own robe and wrapped it around the limb, casting a hardening spell to secure it in place.
Harry looked up at Don in amazement, tears still present in his eyes. "You...you ripped your own robe..."
"I did, Harry. Your health is more important than my wardrobe. Clothing can be replaced," Don replied kindly.
"I appreciate it," murmured Harry, as a warmth spread through his chest. He knew the Dursleys would never have even considered doing something like that for him. To them, he was worth less than their own clothes, and he was only ever given Dudley's hand-me-downs.
With a nod of reassurance, Don lifted Harry into his arms once again. "I'm still going to have to carry you, since we don't have crutches. I don't want you to injure yourself again."
Harry nodded back, secretly enjoying the closeness with the healer. It was a sensation he had never experienced before, and it felt like he was making up for lost time.
As he was lifted, Harry caught a quick glance at Arthur, who had been busy scolding the social worker. He had noticed the man's presence before, but hadn't really registered who he was. Walking over to the two bickering adults, Harry caught Arthur's warm smile, which made him feel a mixture of emotions.
"How are you feeling, Harry?" Arthur asked with genuine concern.
"Better, thank you," Harry replied, quietly.
Harry then turned his tear-stained face into Don's chest, seeking comfort and safety in the strong embrace. Don's confusion was evident in his furrowed brows and the look he gave Harry, and he didn't hesitate to ask what was troubling him.
"Hey, hey now. Talk to me Harry, what's up?" he urged gently, rubbing soothing circles on the boy's back.
In a soft, tremulous voice that only Don could hear, Harry tried to explain what was troubling him. "He...he didn't stop...the Minister from sending me back..."
Don gave an understanding nod even though he wasn't fully following the boy's train of thought, "I assure you he is doing everything he can to get you back to hogwarts." He would have to investigate further later.
The comfort Harry had soaked in from the healer was quickly extinguished and he tensed as the impatient witch who interrupted them. Her brusque tone and demeanor grated on Don's nerves, but he managed to maintain his composure and calmness for Harry.
"Can we go now?" she snapped, oblivious to Harry's pain and the gravity of the situation.
Don sighed, but nodded his acquiescence. "Lead the way."
The healer wanted to quietly mutter under his breath what he really thought about this social worker and everything that had happened this morning, but he refrained in case Harry heard him and it caused distress.
As they walked down the dimly lit corridors, Don filled Arthur in on the details of Harry's ordeal instead. The sheer cruelty and callousness of the Dursleys made Arthur's blood boil with righteous anger and indignation. He couldn't help but think that if he had listened to the twins' warnings earlier, maybe he could have spared Harry some pain and suffering. Guilt gnawed at him like a festering wound.
The trio made their way to the Minister's office, Harry still cradled in Don's arms gently. Arthur walked silently beside them, his mind racing with thoughts and emotions he couldn't begin to articulate. When they finally arrived, the Minister didn't even bother to look up from his desk as he addressed them in a brusque tone.
"What took you so long to get the boy from that death eater? Dumbledore has been bugging me this entire time. We're almost out of time before the old coot wins. We need to get the boy to his relatives before Dumbledore can come and take him."
The scene was tense as the four individuals in the room stood in silence, taking in the gravity of the situation. The Minister's face turned pale as he realized what he had just revealed to the wrong people. He tried to regain his composure, but his anger quickly surfaced.
"Who are all these people?" he demanded looking at the social worker. "You were only supposed to bring the boy!"
Arthur regaining his thoughts stepped forward, his voice steady but filled with conviction. "These people, as you call us, are here because we are concerned about the child you seem to want to shuffle into the system. Harry is not some mere political tool that you can use to advance your own interests. He is a child, a child for Merlin's sake!"
Turning to Don, Arthur continued. "I believe we should leave now and return to Hogwarts. It is clear that the Minister was planning on endangering a child's life. I think the Auror's should be informed about this."
Don nodded, grateful for Arthur's quick thinking. He held the frightened child tightly as he felt him tremble slightly, feeling a surge of protectiveness wash over him. With Arthur leading the way, they left the room, leaving the Minister and social worker stunned and speechless.
Arthur was known for his quiet demeanor and reserved nature especially at work, but in moments like these, his Gryffindor bravery and determination shone through. As they made their way back through the corridors of the Ministry, they attracted curious glances from passersby, but none dared to interfere.
Finally, they reached the nearest floo, and Don quickly stepped forward, with Harry still in his arms. "It's time to go home, Harry," he whispered, holding the boy close.
As they prepared to floo Harry back to his home, Don, turned to Arthur and extended a hand in greeting. "I'm sorry we never properly introduced ourselves. My name is Healer Don Patterson, but you can call me Don."
Arthur warmly shook Don's hand, grateful for the opportunity to finally thank him for his help. "No need to apologize, things were quite hectic back there. My name is Arthur Weasley. Thank you for taking care of Harry. From what you've told me, it's high time someone showed him the care and attention he deserves."
Arthur gazed down at Harry, a gentle smile on his face as he spoke. "I apologize for not heeding your or my sons' words this summer. They have a tendency to exaggerate, and I thought they were simply attempting to avoid getting into trouble."
Harry nodded slowly, his heart weighed down by anxiety. As he listened to Arthur, he began to realize that the twins were known for their tall tales all in the attempts to get out of trouble. Although a part of him still felt hurt that they hadn't believed him, he pushed the thought aside for the time being.
Upon seeing Harry's nod, Arthur's heart swelled with pride for his sons, particularly Ron and the mischievous twins. "When you see Ron and the twins, could you please let them know how proud I am of them?" he asked.
Harry's face lit up at the mention of his friends, and he nodded in agreement. "Thank you, Mr. Weasley...for back there."
Arthur's voice remained gentle as he replied, "There's no need to thank me, Harry. I did what any adult would have done. I'm truly sorry for not listening to my sons this summer. However, I'm glad Professor Snape was there for you. If you ever need anything, know that you can come to either me or Molly, okay?" As he noticed the flicker of pain that flashed across Harry's face, Arthur felt a pang in his chest. He hoped that one day, Harry could truly forgive him.
Harry nodded slowly, his eyes filled with uncertainty. "So you're not coming with us?" he asked hesitantly. He didn't understand why he felt this sudden urge to ask the man to come along. Although Arthur had let him down in the past, he had just saved him from the Dursleys. Harry's emotions were all over the place, leaving him unsure of how to feel.
Arthur crouched down to Harry's level, his expression filled with regret and indecision. "I can't right now," he said slowly. "I have to go to the Aurors and report the Minister. What he did was inexcusable and against the law. But I'll visit you later. How does that sound?"
Harry gave a small, unsure smile and nodded in acceptance.
Don watched the exchange with a mix of concern and curiosity. There was clearly more to this than met the eye, and he knew he would need to delve deeper into Harry's emotions later. With a final round of goodbyes, Don and Harry stepped into the floo, ready to head back home.
The Ministry