So Much for No Strings Attached

Chapter 83 An Invasion of Gryffindors

Harry looked completely normal and a lot better than he had last time they had seen him, pale and lifeless on the wooden floor of the Three Chasers. Now he had a healthy flush to his pale skin and a spark in his dark brown eyes.

George did notice that Harry looked fuller around the middle than he had done but with all the other changes to Harry George had barely noticed. And if he had he would have assumed it would because he was no longer being starved by his relatives.

'Harry,' Charlie said brightly. 'How are feeling?'

'Good,' Harry said brightly. 'And Father has finally let me off of bed rest.'

'I was worried about you,' the Dark Lord said calmly taking a seat in an armchair. 'You could have been killed!'

'I know,' Harry said softly. 'But I'm okay. I meant to say Fred, George, thank you for helping.'

'Did you really-' began Fred.

'-think-'

'-that we-'

'-would not-'

'-protect you?' demanded Fred glaring at Malfoy who was sitting far too close to Harry.

Harry smiled softly, 'I just never expect it.'

There was a very sad silence as everyone absorbed that. No one could blame Harry for constantly being surprised that people cared for him! Not after the Dursleys and the Weasleys having hurt and betrayed him so much.

'Yeah, well get used to it,' George said angrily.

'We're not going to leave you!' agreed Fred.

'I ... read the Prophet ...' Harry said awkwardly. 'I'm sorry ...'

'You have nothing to apologise for!' Fred said aggressively.

Harry blinked a few times looking confused. George suddenly remembered that the Prophet at reported the what and not the why.

George sighed, 'she was planning to kill us too.'

Harry's face immediately dropped, 'what ... why? I know Molly Weasley is ...'