The Burrow³

The Burrow's kitchen was already bustling that morning. Molly Weasley was preparing breakfast while Fred, George, and Ron sat around the table, looking far too pleased with themselves. Harry Potter sat nearby, still adjusting to his first morning in the Weasley household.

The back door opened, and Arthur Weasley walked in, exhausted but cheerful, carrying a stack of Ministry papers. He leaned over and kissed Molly on the cheek.

Arthur:"Morning, Weasleys."

Fred, George, Ron:"Morning, Dad."

Molly:"Morning, Arthur!"

Arthur:"What a night. Nine raids. Nine!"

Harry:"Raids?"

Ron:"Dad works at the Ministry of Magic, in the Misuse of Muggle Artefacts Office. Dad loves Muggles. Thinks they're fascinating."

Arthur finally noticed Harry sitting at the table.

Arthur:"Well, who are you?"

Harry:"Oh, sorry, sir. I'm Harry. Harry Potter."

Arthur froze, staring at him in astonishment.

Arthur:"Good lord, is it really? Ron's told us all about you, of course! When did he arrive?"

Molly:"This morning."

She stepped forward, arms crossed, giving her husband a pointed glare.

Molly:"Your sons flew that enchanted car of yours to Surrey and back last night."

Arthur's eyes widened. He turned toward the boys, suddenly looking much more excited than concerned.

Arthur:"Did you really? How did it go?"

Fred, George, and Ron grinned proudly.

Arthur:"Did it..."

Molly smacked his arm with a rolled-up newspaper.

Arthur:"I mean... that was very wrong indeed, boys. Very wrong of you."

George hid a laugh behind his hand while Fred looked down at his breakfast, shoulders shaking.

Molly:"Arthur!"

Arthur:"Yes, dear."

Harry watched the exchange with barely concealed amusement. It was certainly unlike anything he'd experienced at the Dursleys'.