A New Chapter at Hogwarts [Drarry]

Chapter 23: Holiday Reflections

The Burrow stood tall against the wintry landscape, its familiar crooked structure blanketed in snow, with chimneys puffing smoke into the pale blue sky. The garden was dusted with a delicate layer of white, and the fields beyond stretched into a soft horizon, the snow reflecting the afternoon light. Inside, the air was filled with warmth and the smell of Molly Weasley's cooking, a blend of spices and roasting vegetables that made the house feel even cozier. The chaotic hum of laughter, footsteps, and chatter wove through the house, wrapping it in a joyful energy.

For Harry, stepping into the Burrow was like stepping into a second home. As he approached the front door, the familiar sense of comfort and belonging settled into his bones. The moment he stepped over the threshold, Molly Weasley enveloped him in a hug so warm and tight that it seemed to melt away the last remnants of the cold he'd carried in from outside.

"Harry, dear!" Molly exclaimed, her voice full of delight as she pulled back slightly to inspect him, her hands still gripping his arms. Her eyes sparkled with warmth, and her cheeks were flushed from the heat of the kitchen. "It's so wonderful to see you! Look at you—still too thin! Come in, come in. You must be freezing."

Harry smiled, allowing Molly to fuss over him as she helped him out of his coat and scarf, draping them over the back of a chair by the door. The familiar scent of cinnamon, fresh bread, and herbs filled the room, instantly comforting. He hadn't realized how much he'd missed this until he was here, surrounded by the love and warmth that radiated from every corner of the house.

"Thanks, Molly," Harry said, his voice soft with affection. "It's good to be here. It feels like I've been away for ages."

"You're home now, that's all that matters," Molly replied, patting his cheek in that motherly way of hers. "Arthur! Look who's here!" she called, her voice bright and welcoming.

Arthur Weasley appeared from the living room, his face lighting up the moment he saw Harry. "Harry! Wonderful to see you, my boy!" he said as he wrapped Harry in a warm embrace. There was always something about Arthur's hugs—they were gentle yet strong, and Harry always felt reassured by them.

"How's Hogwarts treating you, then?" Arthur asked, stepping back and beaming at Harry. "I bet you've taken to teaching like a duck to water."

Harry chuckled, nodding. "It's been great, Arthur. Different from being an Auror, but in a good way. It's nice to be back there. Feels right."

As Harry followed Arthur into the living room, the familiar coziness of the Burrow washed over him. The room was alive with movement and laughter. Ron and Hermione sat on the large, well-worn couch, their hands wrapped around mugs of tea, their faces lighting up the moment they saw Harry enter. Seated nearby, Bill Weasley and Fleur were engaged in quiet conversation, but Bill's eyes lifted with a broad smile when Harry appeared in the doorway.

"Harry!" Ron called, jumping up to greet his best friend with a bear hug. "It's about time, mate! You've been far too busy hiding away at that castle."

Harry laughed, returning the hug. "I know, I know. It's good to see you all. It feels like coming home."

Hermione was next, pulling Harry into a tight embrace, her eyes bright with happiness. "You look well, Harry. How's teaching treating you?"

"Surprisingly good," Harry replied, his smile widening. "I wasn't sure at first, but I'm really enjoying it. The students are great, and it's nice to have a routine."

From across the room, Bill, ever the playful big brother, leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms, an amused gleam in his eyes. "Look at that! Harry's turned into a proper professor. Next thing you know, he'll be lecturing us all on the history of Hogwarts and offering extra credit for cleaning up the garden."