Healing Shadows | Harry x George

[ Heartfelt Confessions ]

The morning sun streamed through the kitchen windows of the Burrow, casting a warm glow over the rustic room. Molly Weasley bustled about, preparing breakfast for her family. She glanced over at George, who was sitting at the table, lost in thought. He had been more engaged recently, ever since that day at the shop with Harry, but there was still a sadness in his eyes that she couldn't ignore.

"George, dear, could you pass me the salt?" Molly asked gently, breaking the silence.

George blinked and nodded, handing her the salt shaker. "Here you go, Mum."

Molly smiled, her heart aching for her son. "Thank you, love."

As the family began to gather for breakfast, Harry entered the kitchen, his hair tousled from sleep. He greeted everyone with a warm smile and took a seat next to George. Molly noticed the way Harry's eyes lingered on George, a mixture of concern and something else she couldn't quite place.

After breakfast, when everyone had dispersed to start their day, Molly found Harry alone in the garden, tending to the gnomes. She approached him quietly, her motherly instincts telling her it was time for a heart-to-heart.

"Harry, dear, can we talk for a moment?" she asked, her tone gentle.

Harry looked up, surprised but nodded. "Of course, Mrs. Weasley."

They sat on a nearby bench, the scent of blooming flowers filling the air. Molly took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "I've noticed that George has been doing a bit better lately. He's more engaged, more present. And I think a lot of that is thanks to you."

Harry blushed slightly, looking down at his hands. "I'm just trying to help him, Mrs. Weasley. He's been through so much."

"We all have," Molly agreed, her voice soft. "But there's something else I've noticed, Harry. The way you look at George... it's more than just a concern, isn't it?"

Harry's blush deepened, and he took a moment before responding. "I... I care about him a lot. More than I realised at first. It's just... with everything that's happened, I didn't think it was the right time to say anything."

Molly reached out, placing a comforting hand on Harry's. "Harry, love is never something to be ashamed of. And if you care about George, he deserves to know. He needs all the love and support he can get right now."

Harry looked up, meeting Molly's gaze. "Do you really think it's okay? I don't want to make things harder for him."

Molly smiled warmly. "I think George needs to know that he's not alone. And if you're a part of his healing, then that's a wonderful thing. Just be honest with him, and with yourself."

Harry nodded, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. "Thank you, Mrs. Weasley. I'll talk to him when the time feels right."

Molly patted his hand gently before standing. "You're a good boy, Harry. And I know you'll do what's best. Just remember, we're all here for you, no matter what."

As Molly walked back to the house, Harry sat in the garden, reflecting on her words. He knew she was right. George deserved to know the truth, and Harry owed it to himself to be honest about his feelings.

Later that evening, after a quiet dinner, Harry found George sitting on the porch, looking out at the stars. He took a deep breath and joined him, the night air cool and refreshing.

"Hey, George," Harry said softly, taking a seat next to him.

"Hey, Harry," George replied, his voice calm but tinged with the lingering sadness that never fully left.

They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, the night sky a blanket of twinkling lights above them. Harry felt his heart pounding, but he knew this was the right time.

"George, there's something I need to tell you," Harry began, his voice steady despite his nerves. "These past few weeks, spending time with you, helping you... it's made me realise something. I care about you a lot. More than just as a friend."

George turned to look at him, surprise and confusion in his eyes. "Harry, I... I don't know what to say."

Harry reached out, taking George's hand in his. "You don't have to say anything right now. I just wanted you to know how I feel. I'm here for you, George, in any way you need."

George looked down at their joined hands, a mixture of emotions flickering across his face. "Thank you, Harry. I... I need some time to process this. But I appreciate your honesty."

Harry nodded, giving his hand a gentle squeeze before letting go. "Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere."

As they sat together under the stars, Harry felt a sense of hope and possibility. It would take time, but he believed that with patience and love, they could find their way through the darkness together.