The rain began to patter lightly against the window, Privet Drive had fallen temporarily into complete darkness as a giant raincloud covered the area. The weather had been like this all throughout July, it seemed as if Mother Nature was mourning. Slowly the street lights gently flickered to life, pools of light spilled onto the pathways. The only sound that rang through the street was that of the falling water, splashing against the concrete road. A lone figure stood looking up into the sky, dressed in clothes at least 3 sizes too big for him, curtains began to rustle as people started to stare at the boy. Whispers were heard to spread through the street, "Its that boy," one elderly women was heard to say, rather too loudly, another simply said "He's not normal."
Harry Potter stood staring up into the sky, his glasses taking the rain, it was 3 days until his birthday, Harry knew what this meant, the thought filled him with happiness. However another feeling arose from the pit of his stomach, one of despair. In 3 days he would be taken back to the world where he had suffered so much pain. Harry closed his eyes exhaling gently, his mind filled with images, Cedric, Sirius and Dumbledore. A lump grew in his throat, dead, all of them. Harry knew they had all died because of him, Harry dreaded going back. He slowly began to sway on the spot, his mind momentarily blank, the rain hitting his skin was calming, soothing almost. The peace was finally broken several minutes later, "BOY!GET IN THIS HOUSE NOW!!!" Vernon Dursley had emerged from the door of Number 4 and was purple with rage staring at his abnormal nephew. Harry turned looking directly at his uncle, slowly he trudged through the now flowing water, without so much as a look he passed his raging uncle and walked up the stairs.
Harry collapsed on his bed, hoping that Vernon wouldnt pursue the matter, thankfully he was in one of the moods where he didnt want to see Harry. Slowly the darkness began to take him in, falling into a calming sleep.
The night was a quiet one, cold but the rain had subsided, Harry had left his light on, which allowed for a slither of light to creep onto the glistening front lawn. A snowy owl, began to approach the window of number 4, perching gently on the window sill, she gently tapped the glass. The window was pulled opened, and a rather dreary looking Harry carefully allowed his owl to hop inside. She held her leg out and Harry instantly recognised the seal on the envelope. Gently he stroked her around her head, before she nipped him and flew off into the night. Harry read the letter he had just received, giving himself a private smile, he first he had allowed himself for weeks. He feel prone onto the bed, closing his eyes, his fingers relaxed around the parchment allowing it to gently float to the floor.
Dear Mr H. Potter
I am pleased to inform you that Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is to remain open. Following a number of meetings with the newly reformed Board of Governers and the issue of a petition of over 500 names the decision was taken to reopen. However Mr Potter I know the predicament you are in, therefore I will entirely understand if you wish not to return. If this is the case I offer my assistance and the assistance of any resource within the castle. You will also be more than welcome to stay within the confines of Hogwarts. I look forward to receiving your owl.
Yours sincerely
Professor. M. McGonagell
Headmistress, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry