The Not so Dark Hours (Tomarry)

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 23

"Harry, my boy, it's so good to see you again safe and sound." Dumbledore says, trying to lay his hand on my shoulder, but I slip away. I project fear into my eyes, the way Tom showed me. Flinch, as if I am scared of being touched. Well, it's not that much of a lie, it's just I don't want him touching me.

"Oh, don't be so thick Albus," McGonnagall scolds, then looks at me, "are you alright Mr. Potter?"

I look down, but nod slightly. Which is general sign language for 'no girl, I'm not'.

"Well, that's wonderful. Now, my boy, would you mind telling us what happened?" Dumbledore continues on as if he doesn't 'know' that I was raped, or at least sexually assaulted and kept hostage for weeks. At least to their knowledge.

To make it more realistic and because Dumbledore is a skilled legilimence, even Snape agreed to having his memory of my change of sides taken as soon as he had brought me to Hogwarts. It's only temporary.

Tom had put up other measures to insure the safety of my own mind. I glide my finger over the ring. A promise from Tom, and a protection. Only Tom can take it off, and if Dumbledore tries to look into my mind he will only see extremely horrid fake memories of my time at the manor. He will think that I'm completely broken and messed up and will leave me alone unless he needs me as leverage or to shield himself from public scrutiny. That means I can at least mostly avoid him. Snape and Hermione I'm not so sure.

I'm not worried about Ron trying to get all up in my business. He is always supportive and kind, if a bit dense at times.

Dumbledore eyes me suspiciously, probably trying to penetrate the protective barriers Tom set up in my mind. I lower my gaze, feigning vulnerability. He looks concerned, but I can tell he's frustrated that he can't dig deeper into my mind. Good, let him be frustrated.

Snape, who had been standing silently in the background, steps forward. "He's been through a lot, Headmaster. Let the boy be."

Dumbledore sighs, looking almost defeated. "Of course, Severus. Harry, we are here for you. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

I nod, silently thanking Snape for his assistance. Snape gives me a brief, understanding glance before turning to Dumbledore. "I'll take him to the hospital wing. He needs rest and some time to recover."

Dumbledore agrees, and Snape leads me away from the Great Hall. Once we're out of earshot, he speaks quietly, "Potter, you better be convincing in your act. I've risked a lot to help you in this."

"I know, Professor. I appreciate it," I reply, keeping up the façade of vulnerability. Then I remember that I also have to act as though the trauma made me go mute. Good that I said nothing in the office and just let the others talk.

And with that the spell rushes over Snape as his memories of the fake act and the plan are sifted from his mind and blown away - presumably to Tom - with the wind.

We reach the hospital wing, and Madam Pomfrey fusses over me, examining me for injuries that don't exist. As she applies a calming potion, I glance around the room. Ron, Hermione, and Ginny are there, looking worried.

I catch Ron's eye, and he gives me a reassuring smile. Hermione, being Hermione, is already forming questions in her eyes. Ginny looks relieved to see me, but there's an underlying concern. 

Madam Pomfrey finishes her examination, and Snape nods approvingly. "Rest, Potter. You've been through a lot."

I lay back on the bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering how long I can keep up this charade. Tom's ring on my finger feels heavy with the weight of secrets and promises.

A/N Hulloooo... I know, it's been ages and I'm very sorry. I assure you, I'm trying as hard as I can to post regularly, but procrastination and writer's block are bitches and won't give me a rest... Anyhow, I hope you all are doing well and that you liked this chapter!

As always, stay happy and healthy, and if you like this story please comment and vote!

Luv, Salazar