A Horcrux's Fate

Chapter 2

Harry was feeling completely devastated, like a vital part of him had been irreparably shattered. Everything seemed to blur together around him, making it hard for him to recall the moment he had reached the Burrow alongside the Weasleys. Ron and Ginny appeared worried as they gave him concerned glances, though Harry struggled to grasp the full extent of the situation. It was as if he was trapped in a foggy dream, unable to fully comprehend the seriousness of what was happening.

Harry stood at the door of the Burrow, feeling more like an intruder than a guest. The vibrant house, with its crooked roof and sprawling garden, was both familiar and comforting.

"Welcome home, Harry!" Mrs. Weasley announced, as if the word alone held magic.

Harry offered a shy smile as he stepped over the threshold.

"Harry," Mr. Weasley began. "Molly and I have a surprise for you."

Harry's interest piqued, but a hint of nervousness stirred inside him as he met their expectant gazes.

"Surprise?" he echoed, unsure if he was ready for whatever news they had to share.

Mrs. Weasley clapped her hands together, her eyes shining with excitement. "Percy has moved out!" she declared.

"Right," Harry replied, confused. He noticed Ron's eyes widen, anticipation evident on his face.

"And what's more?" Mr. Weasley continued, "we've decided to give you Percy's room."

Harry's heart dropped. "Why would you do that?" he asked, bewildered. "I can't just take his room."

"Of course you can!" Mrs. Weasley replied, her voice warm and encouraging. "Percy's excited to pass it on to you; he believes you deserve a space of your own. Besides, now that he's off doing his 'Ministerial duties'"—Mrs. Weasley made air quotes—"he hardly needs it!"

Harry couldn't find the words. The thought of having a room, a place to call his own, felt surreal. Memories of his cupboard and Dudley's second bedroom that was more like a store room at Privet Drive flooded back—a dark reminder of a life he was trying to leave behind.

Ron piped up, his grin contagious. "C'mon, Harry! You're going to love it! It's got Gryffindor colours and Quidditch posters. You'll practically feel like you're flying!"

Harry's surprise turned into curiosity, and Mrs. Weasley, with an arm around his shoulders, led him up the staircase, chattering excitedly about the details.

When they reached the door, Mrs. Weasley opened it, revealing a bedroom painted in deep scarlet and gold.A magnificent banner was proudly displayed on the wall, bearing the welcoming message, "Welcome home, Harry!"The walls were also adorned with posters of various Quidditch teams—Puddlemere United, the Chudley Cannons, and a particularly large one featuring the Holyhead Harpies, which made Harry chuckle.

"Ron picked all the decorations," she said, rolling her eyes with amusement. "He wasn't sure who your favourite team was, so he thought he'd just cover all bases."

"Thanks, Ron," Harry said, grinning. "I guess I can't complain about being spoilt for choice!"

"If the Gryffindor hues prove to be too intense for your liking, just say the word, mate. We can easily adjust them to your preferences." Ron assured Harry.

Harry stepped further inside, taking in the details. A trunk in the corner already held his belongings from Hogwarts, courtesy of Mrs. Weasley's magic, and the bed was made with thick, warm blankets that looked inviting. The more he explored, the more his heart swelled with gratitude.

"I—I really can't believe this. Thank you, all of you," Harry stammered, feeling the weight of their kindness settle in his chest.

"Just you wait until you see the closet," Ron teased, elbowing him. "Clearly, it has enough room for a whole horde of robes. Better make sure to keep that green one of yours—if only for fashion emergency purposes!"