Reliving the Past, Present, and Future

Chapter 35

Harry scowled at his reflection in the bathroom mirror.

He could faintly hear the boisterous group of Weasley's and Order members below, mulling about in the early hours of the Christmas holiday.

They were celebrating once again at Grimmauld Place due to the residence becoming more habitable and with more bedrooms to spare.

His sixth year was tolerable so far, he supposed. Dumbledore was giving him further insight into Tom Riddle and Slughorn's parties kept things interesting... the Prince's book helped him in potions despite Hermione's opposition.

Being Quidditch Captain was more drama and responsibility than he expected, but Ginny kept them (and him) in line.

Harry's scowl in the mirror softened slightly, but his thoughts soon ventured back to his current ire.

There was a sour taste in his mouth after talking to Lupin, Tonks, Sirius, and Mr. Weasley about his suspicions with Malfoy and Snape last night.

"Why would Teddy have allowed Snape to see the memories?"

"Snivellus is a greasy bastard, but Teddy trusts him which is enough to make one think, yes?"

"Making Draco a Death Eater makes no sense. What use is a 16-year-old to Voldemort?"

His scowl deepened in the mirror, his green eyes bright with blind certainty. Malfoy was up to something and Snape was somehow involved. The young Slytherin would often be asked to stay after class and a silencing charm would automatically be casted on the door.

There was also Harry's confusing anger and hurt with Teddy Lupin who had traveled back to the future without saying good bye. Why had he suddenly left?

Harry sighed deeply, attempting to clear his frustration. It was Christmas; he could rein his temper in for Ginny.

As he exited the bathroom however, a familiar voice piqued his interest.

"- what's done is done."

He crept closer to the hallway, not daring to peek around the corner.

"Hermione, I need to know."

"You're safe, that's what matters."

"It's only fair to tell me what-"

"I can't, Charlie."

There was a tense silence that made Harry nervous, perhaps he shouldn't have-

"Please tell me you didn't."

The emotion in Charlie's voice took Harry by surprise.

"Have you gone mental? An Unbreakable Vow -"

"I - maybe, but -"

"How can I protect you from -"

"Protect me?! Why would-"

"Because I love you!"

Harry felt his face grow warm from the sudden declaration and knew he'd heard enough. He quickly backed away and made his way to the kitchen.

"'Bout time you came back," grumbled Ron, peeling potatoes in the sink.

Harry rolled his eyes and grabbed the other knife.

"Ron," said Harry as casually as he could. "Ever heard of an Unbreakable Vow?"

Ron glanced at him in surprise, cursing under his breath when he dropped his potato.

"What happens if you break it?" continued Harry curiously.

"You die," said Ron flatly, focusing back to the current task.