Chapter 11

The Unbreakable Vow? That's what he said?" Ron asked, making sure he'd heard his best friend right.

"Yeah. I've said it three times now. What is it?" Harry asked, looking a bit tired. He and Daphne had returned to Slughorn's party after overhearing Draco and Snape. The party had gone on very late, and Harry and Daphne had suffered the awkward, and sometimes grating, questioning by fellow students. Harry was sure that by breakfast there would be hundreds of rumors centered around Harry and Daphne's "relationship".

When they said goodnight in the Entrance Hall, it had seemed to Harry that Daphne had wanted to ask him something, or that something important was on her mind. She had looked as if she was on the verge of saying something to him several times, but had finally just bade him goodnight and walked briskly down to the dungeons.

"The Unbreakable Vow is like the ultimate promise. If you make it, and you don't hold up your end, you die. Fred and George tried to make me take it when I was younger, but Dad found us. I've never seen him so mad in my life. He put Mum to shame that night. George still says his left buttock has never been the same." Ron chuckled a bit.

"Well, then, let's hope Draco fails. It might end two of our problems." Harry said dryly, remembering Snape's threat from the previous night. "So, Charlie's going to be home this year?"

"Yeah, that's what Mum said anyway. It'll be really cool to catch up with him. I suppose Bill and Fleur will be there as well." Ron looked out the window, anticipating the holiday, and the presents.

"You think your mum's lightened up on her yet?"

"Who knows." Ron shrugged.

"I suppose she'll be all over you when she finds out about you and Hermione." Harry grinned. Ron's face went crimson, and his eyes looked about to pop.

"What's wrong with you?" Hermione asked Ron as she re-entered their compartment.

"I just asked him what he thought Mrs. Weasley was going to say when she found out about you two being together." Harry said, still grinning madly.

"I'd be more concerned over her opinion on you and a certain Slytherin girl. Given her treatment of Fleur, I doubt Mrs. Weasley would be any better to Daphne." Hermione said, a hint of threat in her tone. She was glaring hard at Harry, who looked defiant.

"I never said it would be me who spilled the beans. Ron does have a sister who's seen the two of you together. Ginny's no idiot. I'll even lay odds she'll be the one to announce it at dinner tonight, especially if it means getting Fred and George to stop harassing her about Dean."

"Well, thank goodness I'm going home. I doubt I could handle Fred and George ribbing me about it all night." Hermione looked a bit frightened at the possibility.

"Oh, man! Those two aren't going to give me a moment's peace." Ron frowned, burying his head in his hands. Hermione began rubbing his back, trying to comfort him.

The door to the compartment opened, and Daphne and Tracey poked their heads in.

"Do you mind if we join you?" Daphne asked, looking a bit haggard. She was dressed in black pants and a dark green sweater that hugged her torso nicely. Her blonde hair was swept up in a lazy ponytail, and she looked tired.

"Come right in." Hermione nodded motioning for the two Slytherin girls to take a seat.

"Thanks." Tracey smiled gratefully. "These two made quite the impression last night. People won't stop coming in and asking stupid questions."

"I expected something, but it's getting out of hand." Daphne sighed, sitting next to Harry. "Pansy Parkinson started in on me before breakfast, telling me I was an idiot and I could do better. Then, Malfoy asked how much I was paid, and basically called me a slag. I really hate him."

"Isn't sitting here with us only going to fuel the fire?" Harry asked, looking a bit confused and worried.

"Most likely." Daphne smiled coyly. "But people seem afraid of you for some reason. So at least while I'm in here, I'll be left alone."

"Glad I could help." Harry said sarcastically, rolling his eyes.

"So, I'd love to hear about the party." Tracey smiled. "I haven't heard anything about it, other than Harry had obviously used a love potion on Daphne to get her to come with him. Or, that one about Harry using the Imperious Curse. That was a good one, too."

"What?!" Harry shouted, nearly falling from his seat. "I would never do that kind of thing."

"Relax, Harry." Daphne said, helping him to sit back. "They're just rumors. We talked about this, remember?"

Harry nodded, his demeanor falling into one of exasperated displeasure. He had known that the talk would begin the moment they stepped into that party together, and he had known full well what some of the rumors would say. So, he couldn't figure out why he was so upset over it. There had been talk of Harry being a dark wizard on the rise before, and it always went away. But this time was different, because this time someone else was involved.

"So, how was the party?" Tracey asked again.

"Really good." Ron spoke up. "The food was really good, and there were a lot of interesting people."

"How would you know?" Hermione asked, looking anguished. "You spent the whole night talking to Gwenog Jones about Quidditch. You completely forgot about me unless you needed a refill on your punch."

"Oy, mate." Harry moaned, wiping his face with his hands. "You're an idiot!"

"What? How often will I get to talk to a famous Quidditch captain?" Ron looked confused.

"Well, Harry was a perfect gentlemen. Always introducing me when Slughorn forgot I was there, which was about every single time we met someone new." Daphne smiled proudly. She missed the sidelong glance that Tracey threw to Hermione.

"I still say the most interesting part was what we learned about Draco." Harry sighed.

"Draco? He was there?" Tracey looked confused.

"He says he crashed, but the truth is he got caught by Filch. Harry believes he's been marked by You-Know-Who," Daphne rolled her eyes. "And, he's going to bring about our doom."

"Wait, didn't we hear Pansy telling Millie about Draco getting marked?" Tracey asked, leaning forward. "Back in the beginning of the year?"

Daphne scrunched her nose as she thought back to the beginning of the year. She made it a habit to ignore Pansy as much as possible, as the only thing Pansy seemed good for was taking up space, and blowing hot air. Or, if the stories were true, to be Draco's personal slag. Still, Daphne did overhear many of Pansy's conversations in the Common Room. But this specific conversation took place in the dorm, late one night after Pansy had come in, crying about one thing or another.

It had seemed that Draco and Pansy were on the outs, as they were hardly ever seen together anymore. That night, Pansy had come in to their room, tears falling down her face, and she had flopped on her bed. Daphne remembered that she and Tracey had been talking with Millie, who was always so nice when Pansy wasn't around, and the look of resigned loyalty as Millie went over to comfort her "friend."

"He thinks he's so special now. A real big shot or something. Like all he's got to do is show off that stupid mark and everyone will bend to his whim." Pansy had said disgustedly.

"You're right." Daphne said slapping her forehead. "I totally forgot about it. But, we don't know if it's true. We've never seen it, and I doubt that Pansy has either. Draco most likely just told her he was marked to make himself seem more important."

"But, there's really a chance that he does have the mark?" Hermione asked, looking to the two Slytherin girls in turn.

"I suppose. Draco does lie about a lot, but sometimes he'll tell the truth if he thinks it'll get him what he wants." Tracey shrugged.

"Is there any way we can find out for sure?" Harry asked.

"If he were on the train we could find out, but he stayed at the castle for the holiday." Tracey shrugged as she leaned back into her seat.

Harry felt himself deflate. He was always so close to finding out the truth about his nemesis. It was becoming more and more vexing. If he could get some real proof, perhaps then Dumbledore would take the threat seriously.

"Are you going to meet my parents on the platform?" Daphne asked of Harry, who looked suddenly frightened. He noticed the other three in the compartment staring interestedly at them.

"I suppose I could say hello." Harry said softly.

"I'm sure they'd both really like the chance to at least say hello. Of course, they'll get a better chance to talk to you on Christmas, but it would be nice if you met them before that." Daphne smiled.

"Sure." was all Harry could manage.

The train pressed on towards London. The five teens kept up a nice stream of conversation. After a while, Harry, who'd mostly just listened to the others speaking, finally drifted off to sleep. He had been exhausted, but had slept very little.

Daphne had noticed Harry fall sleep, and kept glancing at him, wondering why he looked so troubled as he slept. Most people found peace in their dreams, but Harry seemed to twitch and lightly moan as he slept. Daphne wanted to reach out and try to ease him, but her own embarrassment kept her from doing anything, especially after she caught Tracey grinning at her accusingly.

The Hogwarts Express was met by hundreds of anxious and excited parents, who greeted their children happily before quickly leaving, for fear of a Death Eater attack. The newspaper had been full of reports of deaths, disappearances, and destruction. It had the whole of the wizarding world clearly on edge.

"Daphne!" Called a feminine voice as Daphne stepped from the train.

"Mum." Daphne waved politely and made her way through the crowd to be embraced by her mother. Again, Tracey's speech from a few weeks ago echoed in her mind.

"Nothing makes you feel as strong, or invincible, or relaxed, or even at peace than when your mum gives you a good strong hug, and tells you it's all going to be ok. You believe her because she loves you."

"It's so good to see you." Aurora Greengrass said as she released her eldest daughter. "How has the term been?"

"I know what you're trying to ask, Mother." Daphne said calmly. She had finally let go of her anger towards her parents over the contract. Aurora looked at her daughter proudly, knowing that Daphne had made an effort to talk to her betrothed during the term. Aurora had to admit that she was hungry for details, but knew better than to push Daphne. The girl would reveal it all in her own time. As it was, the sixteen year old was scanning the crowd.

"Ah, there he is." She said as she waved her arm, and a young man with untidy black hair and round glasses waved back. The boy approached the two women, looking apprehensive.

"Mother, I'd like you to meet Harry Potter. Harry, my mother, Aurora Greengrass." Daphne smiled politely as she introduced the two.

"It's very nice to meet you." Harry said, offering his hand, which Mrs. Greengrass took happily.

Mrs. Greengrass was a few inches taller than Daphne, but looked as if she were but an older sister to the girl. She was dressed smartly in a winter cloak, and warm hat. Her cheeks were rosy with the cold, and her smile was warm and friendly. She had Daphne's same deep, dark brown eyes, though Mrs. Greengrass' were a bit friendlier than Daphne's.

"It is indeed a pleasure to meet you again, Mr. Potter. The last time we met, you were still a baby in your mother's arms." Mrs. Greengrass smiled.

"Mum!"

The three of them turned as a younger girl wrapped her arms tightly around Mrs. Greengrass.

"Astoria, so good to see you." Mrs. Greengrass grinned, embracing her youngest.

"I didn't know you had a sister." Harry whispered.

"I have a sister." Daphne said. "Not much else to say. To be honest, Astoria and I have never been especially close. Too much sibling rivalry, I guess. She's really into sports and things like that. I'm more conservative, I guess."

"Mr. Potter, if you have time, there is someone else I'd like you to meet." Mrs. Greengrass said, turning back to Daphne and Harry.

Harry glanced over to where Mrs. Weasley was standing, watching him carefully, a strange look of confused reservation on her face. Ron and Ginny were with her, waiting for him to join them. He held up a hand to signal it would be another moment, and Mrs. Weasley nodded, a bright smile appearing on her face.

"I have a moment or two." He said politely.

"Good. She'd never let me hear the end of it if I didn't try." Mrs. Greengrass' smile was enchanting.

"Nana's here?" Both Greengrass girls looked hopefully at their mother, who nodded in confirmation.

"YES!" Astoria shouted gleefully. "Where is she?"

"Waiting for us near the portal. Come now, let's not keep her waiting." Mrs. Greengrass said, leading the way. Harry noticed the Weasleys walking not far behind them as they made their way to the portal into London.

On a bench, sitting alone and watching the other families pass her by, was a thin elderly woman, with thick glasses. Her hair was short, nearly white, and very curly. She was dressed in a nice suit, with a dark forest green cloak and matching hat. She held a cane in her hands, topped with a silver dragon's head. Upon spotting them, the elder woman got to her feet a little shakily and smiled a warm proud smile as her two granddaughters rushed forward to greet her with hugs and kisses.

"Oh, my little flowers, how much you've bloomed." The elder woman said in a thick Romanian accent, taking each girl's chin and examining them carefully and blissfully. "I have missed you both so very much."

"I can't believe you're here, Nana." Astoria grinned, and Daphne nodded her own joy at seeing her grandmother.

The elder woman smiled again at each of them and then turned her attention to the black haired boy who stood patiently just behind Mrs. Greengrass. The slender old woman gave a tender smile as she gazed upon the boy.

"Well, by the fates. It is indeed an immense pleasure to see you again after so many years." The elder woman stepped forward, hand outstretched to Harry. "Annabelle Greengrass, and you are, most certainly, Harry Potter."

"Yes, Ma'am." Harry said, taking Annabelle's gloved hand.

"Such a strong handshake. You'll do well in this world, mark my words." Annabelle grinned, taking Harry's arm and leading the group through the portal. "You do resemble your grandfather. Has anyone ever told you that?"

"No, ma'am. Usually they just say I look like my father, with my mother's eyes." Harry said softly.

"Indeed. Well, I am very excited to have the chance to talk to you again. Please tell me you received my invitation, and you'll be joining us on Christmas." The eldest Greengrass woman could not stop smiling at the boy.

"I will. I have so many…" Harry began, but Daphne's grandmother cut him off.

"Questions? Yes, I know you do. But we must be patient. Now, I really must get all my girls home and find out how they have been doing." Annabelle smiled over at the three Greengrass women. "I know that my son is quite anxious to meet you as well, but his business has kept him today. Be assured he will be home on Christmas, and we will all have a very nice chat then. Now, say goodbye to Daphne, and we will see you soon."

Harry couldn't help but return the old woman's smile. It was so infectious. She pulled the younger of the Greengrass girls with her, and Daphne's mother looked away as Harry turned to Daphne, who looked as nervous as he felt at the moment.

"Um, well…I'll see you then." Harry gave an awkward smile.

"Yes. Have a good holiday." Daphne smiled back, and they shook hands. Harry gave another smile and joined the Weasley's who had been waiting just out of the way, but close enough to move in if something had happened.

"My word," The elder Mrs. Greengrass proclaimed, looking affronted at her granddaughter. "Is that how you say good-bye to a boy you…"

"Don't start on me, Nana." Daphne warned. "It's been a tough term, ok."

"Well, I'm anxious to hear all about it." Annabelle said, taking both her granddaughters by the shoulders and guiding them into London, with their mother close behind them.

"Can someone please explain why Harry was speaking to the Greengrass family?" Molly Weasley asked as Harry joined them.

"Mrs. Weasley, it's a really long story, and I'd rather not talk about it here in public, if you don't mind." Harry said weakly.

"Very well. It's getting late. Best to be off, then." Mrs. Weasley said, a bit upset at being shut down by a sixteen year old boy. Molly Weasley had heard many nasty things about the Greengrass family over the years, none of which were flattering. She eyed Harry carefully as they made their way out of King's Cross station. She felt like a mother to the boy, so she had become quite protective over him, as she was with her own children. She would get to the bottom of this new mystery. After all, this was the year Harry and Ginny were going to get together.

"So," Daphne's grandmother smiled sweetly at her eldest granddaughter. They were sitting in Daphne's bedroom the day after the girls had arrived home. Dinner the night before had been a quiet affair as both Daphne and her younger sister had been very tired from their journey.

Astoria had gone with her mother to do some shopping that morning, while Mr. Greengrass had left early to meet with another of his business contacts. Daphne suspected it had all been arranged to give her and her grandmother some time alone.

"You must tell me about the young man." Her grandmother spoke in her thick Romanian accent, her eyes sparkling, making her smile even more childlike.

"There's not much to tell, really." Daphne shrugged. "He's a nice enough boy, but not much more than that. We've been taking time to get to know one another, but there's nothing there, really."

"I see." Annabelle nodded slowly, still watching her granddaughter. "You feel nothing for the boy who is to be your husband one day."

Daphne avoided the knowing eyes of her grandmother, as she said quite unconvincingly. "Nothing special."

"Is that why you got so nervous when you said farewell yesterday? Or why you avoid my eyes now?"

Daphne's head shot up so fast she gave herself whiplash. Annabelle began chuckling mildly. "It was the same for me, you know. I was very upset to learn I had been betrothed."

"You and Papa were betrothed?" Daphne looked awed.

"Oh, yes, child. I did not find out until a year before it was to happen. I was very lucky. Your grandfather was very handsome, and kind. We fell in love very quickly. I practically ran down the aisle to be wed to him. You know, it was I who urged your mother and father to tell you. They did not want to do it, but I kept insisting that if they did not, they would lose you for good."

"You're probably right. I doubt I would have ever spoken to them again." Daphne confessed.

"I thought as much. But, you took their advice and have begun speaking to the boy. I have seen with my own eyes that he is handsome, though not very tidy. I wonder why you believe you feel nothing for him? Is he not kind? Do you have nothing in common at all?" Annabelle inquired.

"No. He's very kind. Thoughtful and generous. I enjoy talking with him. But, I don't think he's what I pictured when I dreamt of a husband. Maybe if things were different…"

"You might find him more to your liking?" Annabelle chuckled again. Daphne gave an irritated expression.

"I've seen you look at him. My eyes are old, but they still see. There is something there, but you are confused by it. You wonder if it's the contract that binds you to him, or if your heart as grown fond of him. He feels it, too. You can see by how he looks at you." Annabelle sighed plaintively.

"It's so confusing, Nana. Sometimes, when I look at him, I feel this tightening in my stomach. When I know I'm going to see him, I get nervous. Then other times, I loathe the thought of him altogether."

Annabelle Greengrass nodded slowly, smiling at her granddaughter. "Your heart has begun fighting with your head. It happens all the time, but listen to me now. I have told you since you were little that your heart is always right. You must listen to it. Your mind wants to protect you. Rarely do the heart and mind agree, but if you just listen to your heart, no matter what it says, you will find happiness."

"Is that what happened with you and Papa?" Daphne asked wistfully.

"It is, child. I never doubted my heart, and I had twenty-five very happy years with him."

Daphne hugged her pillow to her chest as she imagined a life with Harry. The boy had somehow cracked her defenses, though she was loathe to admit it to anyone. When she thought of his smile, she did feel something special. She could never put words to it, to make someone understand it, but it was there, and it was wonderful.

But, it was mired by fear and doubt. Her mind was always coming up with reasons why the two of them didn't make sense. She also was sick to death of her mother sending letters of advice, or Tracey going on and on about how she should open her heart and let whatever happened to just happen. She projected it all on to Harry, aimed her anger at him, though he didn't deserve any of it.

But, when her grandmother, the one person she cherished above all others, gave her the same advice, Daphne couldn't help but heed the words and really consider them. But, was it the contract causing her feelings, or was she actually becoming attracted to the boy of her own volition?

She looked at her grandmother for a long time, her eyes beginning to tear up from her own frustrated confusion. The old woman gave a very tender smile to the teary eyed girl.

"Oh, my precious blossom." She said as she stood to embrace her poor granddaughter. "You are so much like your father. You think too much for your own good."

Holidays at the Burrow was one of Harry's most favorite things in the world. Usually, anyway. Summer had always been fun, with little more to do than fly a broom, or enjoy the sunshine while discussing nothing so important than Quidditch teams with Ron. But this visit was very different, and it was beginning to tax on Harry's nerves.

He had never had Christmas at the Burrow before, but had often heard stories about how special they were. But his own experience was not living up to the legends. In fact, Harry was wishing he were back at school.

Mrs. Weasley had become a little too protective of him lately. She seemed to want him close to her, or at least somewhere she could see him. She was constantly calling on him to help her out with various chores. It was as if she was waiting for him to change, or keel over. Harry even noted that Fleur had begun taking far less abuse from the family matriarch.

On top of that, she had not stopped in her quest to learn why Harry was now associating with the Greengrass family. Whenever she could get him next to her, the topic would inevitably come up. She had even questioned Ron at length in private about it. Ron's father had rescued his youngest son before it had gotten too bad, but Ron could not look his mother in the eye for the rest of the holiday.

Even Ginny had been taken temporary hostage and questioned by the Weasley matron. Harry had learned from both Ron and Ginny that their mother was sure he had been placed under the Imperius Curse or something. Ginny even revealed that her mother had urged her to approach Harry in a romantic way. This had led to the biggest fight Harry had ever witnessed, with Ginny threatening to follow Percy's example.

Harry felt terrible for being the cause of so much friction within the Weasley household. He could think of no reason not to share his situation with Mrs. Weasley, but he remained quiet on the subject. He felt as if he'd somehow ruined the holiday for everyone, as Mrs. Weasley's bad temper was starting to infect others. Harry gave serious thought into just spilling his secret and hoping it would cause the woman to finally ease up on everyone so they could enjoy the holiday.

It was Ron who dissuaded him.

"Mate, you have to understand, Mum really believes the gossip she hears. She never really leaves the house unless she has to. The magazines she reads are nothing but gossip and half truths. You do remember how she treated Hermione during fourth year, right? All because of Rita's articles. Until she is shown that the stuff she believes is untrue, she'll hold onto it as if Merlin himself wrote it."

So, Harry kept silent, counting down the hours until he could escape and meet with Annabelle Greengrass and learn more about the contract. He had been haunted by a question Daphne had asked him. "What if there's a way out of it?"

Harry had no answer. If the contract could in fact be broken, what would he do? Ginny had already told him she didn't feel that way about him, and his feelings for her had begun fading the more he saw of Daphne. There was of course loads of girls in Hogwarts, but none really captivated his attentions. He wondered, if there was a way to break the contract, if he really wanted that anymore.

Harry had been able to speak to Fred and George, and enlist their help in sneaking away. The twins were more than happy to cause a major distraction so Harry might be able to get away. The fact that they had not asked questions made Harry appreciate the twins even more. And so, when the sun rose over a fresh blanket of snow on the Burrow on Christmas morning, Harry anxiously waited the clock to strike noon.

The morning was quite a change from the past week since they'd gotten back from Hogwarts. With the exception of Percy, all the Weasley's were home. This gave Mrs. Weasley a lot of distraction already, as she'd not seen Charlie in several years. Presents were passed around and opened, and breakfast was a feast for kings, as it typically was, but this one seemed a little more special than usual.

After breakfast, the family occupied themselves with their new gifts, conversations, games, or helping Mrs. Weasley in the kitchen with preparing the Christmas dinner. As the noon hour approached, Harry and Ron positioned themselves in front of the fireplace, appearing to play chess.

As the clock on the mantle struck twelve, there came a gut wrenching, earth shaking boom from above. The house erupted in chaos, with redheads screaming and running to find the source of the explosion.

Ron stood, as did everyone else, but he blocked the fireplace with his body as Harry took a fistful of Floo Powder and tossed it into the grate. He stepped into the flames and said clearly, "Greengrass Manor." And, in a flash of brilliant green flame, he was gone, nearly unnoticed.

The fire at Greengrass Manor sprung up, and turned emerald green as Harry Potter came crashing to the floor, sputtering and coughing out ash.

"Right on time" clapped a very pleased Annabelle Greengrass. She leaned heavily on her cane as she offered Harry a helping hand up. "Not too good with Floo travel, are you, young man?"

"I actually prefer a broom." Harry grinned slightly, brushing more soot off of himself.

"I have heard you are quite talented upon a broom. Never got the knack of it myself. Though I always loved being swept off my feet." the old Romanian woman grinned, patting Harry's shoulder. "Come, they are waiting." She motioned for Harry to follow.

The house was amazing. Unlike Grimmauld Place, this house was warm and bright. The dark stained wood walls were decorated with portraits and medieval weapons. The floor was a bright red carpet, which felt soft under his trainers. Harry passed a glass case were many old wands sat on display, and another which contained loads of different knick knacks.

As they journeyed deeper into the house, Harry could hear cheery voices, three distinct female and one gruff male. He followed the elder woman into a drawing room where Daphne sat along with her parents and sister, who looked shocked to see Harry Potter in her house.

"That's the guest?" She asked in astonishment, pointing rudely at Harry.

"Yes, dear one." Annabelle said with a smile. "You do know it's very rude to point and stare." She chided. Astoria looked chastised, and smile apologetically.

"It's alright. I'm rather used to it." Harry smiled softly.

"Doesn't make it any less rude." Annabelle said smiling, yet shaking her head at Astoria. "As it is, this conversation is not for you, dear Astoria. Please give us some privacy."

Astoria looked as if she wanted to protest, but a sharp look from her Grandmother made the complaint die in her throat. Astoria stood and hugged her parents before leaving the drawing room.

"Please allow me to introduce my son, Jonathan Greengrass." Annabelle waved to the man, who now stood offering his hand in greeting.

"It is a pleasure, young master. I trust you are well?" Mr. Greengrass said with a firm handshake.

"Yes, sir. It's nice to finally meet you. Daphne's told me a bit about you."

"I can imagine it didn't paint me in a pretty light, as she's been rather angry with us." Mr. Greengrass looked to his daughter, who was a mask of calm.

"Actually, she spoke quite fondly of the both of you." Harry said, looking to Mrs. Greengrass, who sent a pleased smile at her eldest daughter.

"Shall we all sit? We have much to discuss." Annabelle waved at the sofa and chairs, as she made for the seat her son had just vacated. "I know you have questions, but allow me to tell this story, and then I shall answer any questions as best I can."

Harry nodded, and Annabelle took a deep breath.

"As you know, there aren't many pureblood families left. Many of them are too prejudiced and stubborn to understand that times have changed. They believe in keeping the bloodlines pure. So, options for marriage are quite limited. If you look down any pure blood family tree, you'll see it doesn't branch off very much. Daphne's grandfather, Archibald, wished to keep the family pure, yet, did not wish to mingle with certain other families. He felt many of the bloodlines had become too polluted by their own hands, what with all the inter-family marriages. As you can imagine, that left very few options. Finding a pureblood family that hadn't tainted itself with folks marrying their cousins was proving quite a feat."

Annabelle chuckled at her little joke, looking at the two young teens, who were listening closely.

"The ideal match would have been an ancient house, but that was simply not possible. Then, Archibald met a man named Reginald Potter. While his family was pure blood, it was still relatively young, but your grandfather was willing to forgive that as it was a pure blood family who had not yet contaminated themselves by inbreeding. And so, a deal was struck.

"But, only boys were born to each family." Annabelle smiled at the two youngsters, while Harry heard Daphne's father give a slight chuckle.

"So, a new contract was written, but only after the next generation was born. Both your grandfathers were proud men, and neither wanted to back out of the deal they had struck. This caused a tumultuous amount of friction within the families. While I don't know much about the Potter's troubles, Archibald and Jonathan fought like dragons over the matter. Finally, Archibald did something that I never forgave him for. Something that even he could never forgive himself for. He Obliviated his son, and his son's wife, just before the contract signing."

"What?" Mr. Greengrass shot forward in his seat. "He what?" Harry saw Mrs. Greengrass reach out and clutch her husband's hand, her eyes glistening with tears.

"I'm sorry." Annabelle looked sadly at her son. "He did it before I knew it had happened. I could do nothing to stop it. I have carried this secret for years, and I do not expect forgiveness. I am simply telling you the story." Annabelle looked ready to break down and cry, but she took a deep, calming breath and continued on.

"I know that you both want to know what each family gained from this merger. And I do wish I could tell you for certain. I only know that gold changed hands, but it was an insignificant amount. What I believe was done was an allegiance. The Potter family gain a significant amount of power in our government, and it also made them targets. That contract became a death sentence for Reginald and his family."

Daphne looked to Harry, who stared now at the floor, looking for all the world as if he wished he'd never come.

"But, my mother was muggleborn. I'm only half blood." Harry pointed out. "If your husband was trying to protect the bloodline, you know, keep it pure, wouldn't my father's choice in wife make your husband rethink the agreement?"

"You're only half blood?" Annabelle looked surprised.

"You didn't know?" Harry asked looking strangely at the old woman, who had begun to smile.

"I did not know. How interesting." Annabelle seemed to be rather pleased. "I never cared for blood purity. All one has to do is to look at the most ancient houses to see that blood counts for nothing. Many of the offspring from those houses are little more than glorified squibs. They have all but bred the magic out of their bloodlines."

"So this whole mess has to do with blood purity?" Daphne spoke up for the first time. She looked angry.

"I'm afraid so, dear one." Annabelle said softly.

"So, the two of us are stuck together because of pride and blood? Blood which isn't even pure anymore?"

"Jonathan, Aurora, may I speak to these two alone?" Annabelle asked of the adults. Both of Daphne's parents smiled politely and left the elder woman with the two teens.

Once the door was shut, Annabelle turned to look compassionately upon the youths.

"I know you're both angry, and you have every right to be. When I found out I was betrothed I was ever so angry. No one should have their choices taken away from them. But, the fact remains that you two are linked now. Learn from your ancestors mistakes. I sense a great power hidden inside of you, Harry. All one has to do is to peer into your eyes and they can see it as well. And dearest Daphne, I have watched you grow from a clumsy awkward child into a fine, strong and incredibly intelligent woman. What the two of you could accomplish together is nothing short of amazing. But, you both need to look past the burden of the contract and focus on one another."

The two teens both burned crimson at this statement, each avoiding the other's eyes.

"You've begun to feel strange emotions, and you can't decipher if they are yours, or because of the contract. Learn from each other, let your hearts guide you. Don't fight what you feel for each other. Forget there is a contract. Concentrate on your friendship. Allow those feelings you question to grow." The old woman looked fondly at the pair. She pointed her cane at Daphne, smiling sincerely.

"I've often told you to follow your heart. I give you the same advice, young man." At this she stood up. "I am in need of a cup of tea. I trust I can leave you alone together without concern?"

Annabelle gave one of her little knowing smiles and left the two teens alone. There was silence for a long time, as each of them processed what they had learned.

"I'm sorry, Harry." Daphne said softly.

"What? Why?" Harry looked a little confused.

"For all of this. I know it's not my fault any more than it's yours, but I just needed to say it." She looked into his bright green eyes.

"You heard your grandmother. This was done to us. It's up to us to decide what we make of it." Harry stood, and began pacing about the room. Daphne watched him for a few moments.

"What do we do from here?" She asked softly.

"I don't have any answers." Harry stopped and stared at a portrait of a sleeping dragon. "Everyone expects me to know what to do, but I don't."

Daphne stood and came to his side. She stared at the painting too, as if the dragon might awaken and tell them what they should do.

"I want to be loved." Daphne nearly whispered. "I want to love someone and have the happiness I see in my parents eyes when they look at each other."

"I'm sorry." Harry said sadly. "I wish I could tell you you're going to have those things. I guess we could use Love Potions on each other."

Daphne started to chuckle, and after a few seconds it turned into a full blown laugh, which made her fall into a chair, holding her stomach and wiping her eyes. Harry couldn't stop himself from joining her.

"I can just picture you trying to slip me a potion at the same time I'm trying to slip you one." Daphne mimed the scene, which cause Harry to stumble with laughter.

"Don't get up, I'll get you a drink, my love." Harry grimaced with his own laughter as he mimed slipping Daphne a potion. They laughed hard for a long time until they were both exhausted, and had to avoid looking at each other for fear of breaking into fresh fits of giggles.

"I suppose we'll figure it all out as we go." Harry finally said after they had calmed down. He sat up from the floor where he'd fallen, and found Daphne looking at him strangely. Her eyes were bright from their laughter, and she was regarding him almost fondly. She stood with him, and approached him.

Harry was taken aback when she wrapped her arms around him and embraced him tightly.

"Thank you, Harry. I don't know if many blokes would be so rational in this same scenario. A lot of them would think of me as their property and try to take advantage or something. You've been nothing short of a gentleman through it all."

"I don't know what's going to happen any more than Trelawney can predict the weather, but I will never do anything to hurt you. Not on purpose, anyway." Harry smiled. He glanced at the clock and a deep feeling of guilt overtook him.

"I should really get back. Mrs. Weasley's probably had kittens by now."

"Well, at least come say goodbye. Nana never forgives rudeness. It's her pet peeve."

Daphne led Harry back to the fireplace he'd come through where Annabelle and Mrs. Greengrass were sitting, enjoying tea.

"Leaving us so soon?" Annabelle said a bit sadly. "I had hoped you might stay for dinner."

"I'm sorry, but I kind of snuck out. I'm sure the Weasleys are worried."

"Well, I do hope we get the chance to talk again, and soon."

Harry shook the old woman's hand gratefully. "Thank you for clearing up a lot of this mystery."

"Before you go, there is one thing you must attend to, Mr. Potter."

"What's that?" Harry asked, feeling suddenly nervous. Annabelle Greengrass cast her eyes to a spot just above her granddaughter, who also looked up. There, floating lazily, was a fresh sprig of mistletoe. Both Harry and Daphne's faces suddenly burned crimson, as they turned to see Annabelle trying to hide her laughter.

"NANA!" Daphne shrieked in embarrassment. Harry turned back to look at the mistletoe, hoping it had been an apparition, a trick of the firelight.

"Annabelle, what are you doing to these poor children?" Mrs. Greengrass asked, looking ashamed of the giggling old woman.

"I'm afraid you must tend to the matter. Some traditions are too wonderful to break." Annabelle smiled mischievously as she began ushering a protesting Mrs. Greengrass out of the room.

"I'm so sorry about this." Daphne groaned. "I'm sure she's watching to make sure that you…" Daphne tried, but couldn't finish the sentence. Harry rubbed his hands through his hair, trying to calm down his racing heart.

"You really think she's watching?" He asked, looking to the closed door in which the old woman had briskly fled through.

"And she'll come right back in here to prevent you from leaving." Daphne sighed. She looked at Harry and the moment he aimed his eyes into hers, her stomach flipped, and her palms went cold. Her grandmother was right, one simply had to peer into those magnificent emerald orbs to see the power in Harry Potter.

The two teens stared blankly at one another. Neither noticed that they had begun drawing closer. It felt as if an eternity were passing between them as, closer and closer, they drew in.

Daphne could never ever describe it to anyone. She would try on many occasions, but she would never truly be able to communicate the feeling of exhilaration and passion she felt in the moment when Harry's lips tenderly touched hers. He was so soft, only caressing her lips with his. She felt her hands move to his chest, almost as if she were going to push him off, but instead she tugged his jumper closer. Their kiss deepened and her arms snaked up around his neck, holding him close.

Harry had only ever kissed one other girl, but he couldn't remember it being this wonderful. Daphne's lips felt amazing against his, and when her arms slipped around his neck, his heart felt like it might burst right out of his chest.

The two teens finally broke apart, and simply stared at each other, before Harry finally slipped from Daphne's grasp and used the floo. Daphne watched him disappear into the flames and felt a sudden hole in her existence. Was this what Tracey had been talking about? Had she just learned all she ever needed to know about the boy in that moment?

Daphne could barely breathe. It was as if something precious that she had only discovered had been violently torn away from her. Her heart was pounding so hard in her chest that she actually feared it might explode. Her mind was a jumble of thoughts. There was a virtual whirlwind of emotions that she couldn't even begin to fathom.

Except one. Irritation. Anger. A deep and unrelenting desire to curse someone for meddling in her affairs. And, as she smiled to herself, Daphne knew that it was one emotion she could actually do something about.

"Oh, Nana…"

"Where have you been?"

That was the shriek that greeted Harry as he fell out of the fireplace into the home of the Weasleys. Mrs. Weasley looked ready to murder Harry where he lay, and he was more than shocked to see Albus Dumbledore and Remus Lupin there as well, both looking relieved at his reappearance.

"Merry Christmas Remus, Professor Dumbledore." Harry smiled sheepishly as he got to his feet.

"And to you, Harry." Dumbledore said, a hint of mild irritation at the boy in his voice. "May I inquire where you have been for the past few hours?"

"Greengrass Manor." Harry said. He felt telling the truth was far better at this moment. Besides, he couldn't think of a very good lie.

"What?" Mrs. Weasley's face was as red as a tomato. "Why would you go there? We've been so worried about you. How could you be so insensitive? So unthoughtful?"

"I had to go. I promised I would." Harry looked agitated.

"To the Greengrass'. They could have delivered you to You-Know-Who."

"They wouldn't do that!" Harry snapped.

"What makes you so sure? What guarantee do you have that they would not take you straight to their master?" Mrs. Weasley snapped back.

"I'm quite sure they wouldn't do that. I'm engaged to their daughter after all." Harry looked determinedly at the woman who had been so kind and loving to him over the years. He cared a great deal for Mrs. Wesley, but she had gone too far.

The silence that fell was like a bombshell. Mrs. Weasley's hand went to her chest as she seemed to be trying to understand what Harry had just said. Mr. Weasley's eyebrows had raised so high on his forehead that Harry thought they would have disappeared if he still had a decent head of hair. Remus and Dumbledore both looked understanding, but still angry over Harry's sneaking off.

"Way to go, Harry." It was Fred. He and George had been standing just out of his line of sight, but had come out to where he could see them, along with Ginny and Ron, who both looked happy that Harry had finally let the secret out, though Ron also looked a little frightened of what might be coming.

"How did you land one of the hottest witches in all of England?" George asked, reaching out to shake Harry's hand in congratulations.

"You're too young." Mrs. Weasley roared, finally finding her voice again.

"Oy, mate, you've stirred the beast." Fred said in an undertone.

"How could you be so immature and foolish?" Mrs. Weasley stormed forward, getting right up to Harry, her face scarlet with rage.

"For your information, Mrs. Weasley. " Harry said calmly, his eyes boring into the woman now. "I didn't do it. It was done to me."

"Well, than you must fix it. Break up with the, the,…the scarlet woman!"

"I can't."

"You most certainly can. You have no need to be noble this time. She's obviously charmed you or something. We will set this right." Molly said with conviction.

"Mrs. Weasley!" Harry shouted, finally getting the woman to stop her tirade. "I can't break it off. I told you it was done to me, but I never said that Daphne did it. It was a Betrothal Contract, signed by both my parents. I have no choice in the matter. And, even if I did, I'm not so sure I'd want to walk away from her. Not anymore."

Harry didn't miss the slight twinge on Dumbledore's lips, as if he were fighting a smile. He also noted that Remus looked almost proud. Harry simply shook it off and refocused on Mrs. Weasley, who looked, for all the world, lost.

Mrs. Weasley's eyes began to tear up and she quickly left the room. Harry saw Ron watch his mother run off, and turn back to Harry. He gave a slight nod, and Harry could see how tired his friend looked. Harry realized that he must have been all but tortured by his mother to reveal Harry's whereabouts. He felt a swell of pride at his best friend.

"Why not ask me to help?" Dumbledore asked, bringing Harry's attention back to the matter at hand. "I could have provided a proper escort. I wonder why you felt the need to put yourself in danger again?"

Harry sighed heavily and clenched his fists. "I'm not a little kid anymore. My entire life has been a series of decisions that I had no part in. I'm sick of it. I want to make a few choices in my life."

"I would like to speak with Harry alone for a moment." Dumbledore announced and the others in the room slowly wandered out, leaving Harry and the Headmaster alone.

Dumbledore sat down in one of the chairs in the Weasley living room and stared at the young man before him.

"I have had the privilege of watching you grow into a very strong minded, powerful, and intelligent young man, Harry. So I am truly confused as to where this anger is coming from."

"Professor, in the last eight months, I have lost the closest thing to a father I have ever known. I led my friends to near death, because you were keeping vital information from me. I learned that I am destined to kill or be killed by the monster that killed my parents. I have met the woman I'm going to marry, because of some stupid contract that was supposed to keep a pure blood line going. And I've been learning that Voldemort was a charming and charismatic man. But nothing has helped me. I've not learned how I'm going to defeat him. I've not learned any secret spell, or special chant that would destroy Voldemort and allow me to live. So you tell me, Professor. What reason would I have for being angry?"

"I see." Dumbledore nodded sadly. "You believe my method of teaching is too slow. You believe what I have to show you is unimportant."

"I never said that, sir. I just don't understand why you can't just get to the point, and we can move forward. Isn't this far too important to dance around? Isn't defeating Voldemort more important than anything any of us do?"

"What about trying to keep you alive so you have a chance at the life you wish for?" Dumbledore countered. "Is it more important than that?"

"Sir, no offense, but you just made my point for me." Harry gave a little grin. "Wouldn't just telling me all this stuff, instead of having me jump through all these hoops be a better use of our time? Wouldn't telling me everything you know and teaching me something useful be better than going through all this slight of hand? What if the lesson is lost on me because you thought I was smart enough to figure it out, and I wasn't?"

Dumbledore's shoulders seemed to sag a bit as his bright blue eyes considered Harry for a very long moment. Finally, he took a deep breath and answered Harry.

"Very well. Tell me, have you procured the memory from Professor Slughorn yet?"

Harry eyed the old man, and shook his head slowly.

"Then let me offer you this compromise. You bring me that memory, as it is key to finally solving a puzzle that we must have the answer to, and I will, as you say, get to the point. Is that acceptable?"

"Fine. I will get the memory as soon as we get back to school, and then we can move forward and finally end all of this."

Dumbledore stood, looking proud. "I had hoped to teach you independence, Harry. I wanted you to become self sufficient. I see it is working, but let me remind you that you have people around you who care deeply for you, who only wish to help. It would not do to alienate them, especially when you need them now more than you realize."

Dumbledore smiled and swept out of the room, leaving Harry behind to contemplate the old man's advice.