A Change of Heart

Chapter Fifteen

Mrs. Figg's testimony over, Fudge still looked as if he was not convinced. Someone brought a note to Dumbledore who sat still, perusing it. Then he said calmly.

"There's one more witness to the Dementor attacks on Harry."

"Who now?" Asked Fudge, his irritation showing through.

"A wizard who happened to pass that way. He says he saw the whole incident."

"Call him, then," said Fudge with an air of long-suffering.

Harry caught his breath as Tom walked in. He nodded to Dumbledore as he took the chair vacated by Mrs. Figg. He did not appear to be the least nervous. Harry wondered how it was that no one recognized him.

Tom gave his name as Tom Marvolo Riddle. Again no one seemed to recognize the name. He told them he was passing by when he felt the Dementors. But before he could go for his wand, he saw Harry manage to fend them off.

"It was an impressive piece of magic," said Tom, "especially under the circumstances."

"Circumstances?" Asked Fudge, frowning.

"He and his cousin were being attacked by Dementors," said Tom. "Most fifteen year olds would have lost their heads. Harry Potter not only managed to keep his head, but also to produce a sufficiently powerful Patronus to drive off the Dementors. The boy should be given a medal, not a hearing!"

Fudge bristled. "You are overstepping your bounds!"

Dumbledore was gazing at Tom with a peculiar expression on his face.

Once Harry was cleared of all charges, he was detained by Dumbledore. "I'll take him back, Arthur," said he. Mr. Weasley nodded as he relinquished Harry to Dumbledore. Tom was waiting outside. Dumbledore looked at him.

"It is good to see you like this, Tom," said he.

"I came here only for Harry," said Tom. "Nothing else has changed."

Dumbledore smiled. "Oh, I think it has. But I need to take Harry home now."

"Professor," said Harry. "If you can give us a moment?"

Dumbledore nodded. "Don't take too long."

He moved away, out of earshot.

Tom looked at Harry and smiled, "You look good."

Harry grinned, now that he knew he was going back to Hogwarts, he was feeling quite in charity with the world. "You too. Thank you for coming. I never expected you would come."

"I had to," said Tom. "Apart from the hearing, I did have some business at the ministry."

Harry felt a twinge of disappointment But Tom had still testified on his behalf. And he had been cleared of all charges.

"I should go," said he, holding out his hand.

"Take care of yourself," said Tom, pulling him into a hug. Harry sighed contentedly. Tom lifted his face and kissed his scar.

"See you, Harry," he stepped back and disapparated.

Harry turned to find Dumbledore standing there.

"Shall we go then?" Asked Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling.

Harry nodded.