Redemption

Chapter Two:

"Wow... It's beautiful. I've never been anywhere in England besides Little Whinging and London before," Harry breathed. He and Wufei were lying side by side on the grass, having left Little Winging earlier that evening on Wufei's motorcycle. They'd ridden together until pulling to a halt next to a clear stretch of open countryside, where the sky was visible for miles, bright stars shining unhindered by tree canopies or rooftops. "Thank you, Wufei. You have no idea how much this means to me."

Wufei smiled before his expression turned serious. "Harry, there's something I have to tell you. See, I didn't want to tell you right away because I was afraid of scaring you off, but it's better that I tell you now, rather than later. That way, you can decide whether we can still be friends or not."

Harry started to say something, but Wufei cut him off. "No, let me finish. I-I'll understand if you prefer not to spend time with me anymore. You see, I... I'm not...." He took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a moment before staring fixedly at the sky. "I'm gay."

Harry watched him for a moment, trying to tell if Wufei had been joking or not, but 'Fei wasn't the type to joke. "Gay? As in you like guys?" Wufei nodded slowly, not daring to look at him, so Harry said the first thing that came to his mind. "Wow. I never would have noticed. I, I don't think I've ever met a gay guy before. At least... not one I knew was gay... not that it's a bad thing, I mean... Ack, babbling... I'm glad you trusted me enough to tell me. Thank you."

"You don't mind?" Wufei asked tentatively, finally risking a glance.

"Well, I guess I've never really thought about it myself... I know I used to like this girl, Cho, back at school, but that's about it. In fact, she's the only person I've ever really liked in that way. Not that it matters though... I'm over her now." Harry felt the usual anger creep up inside of him at mentioning Cho Chang. In an attempt to dismiss her from his mind, he turned on his side to look at 'Fei lying next to him, and found onyx eyes staring right back.

Harry found himself transfixed. He studied those dark depths as if they could provide an answer to the question which had risen with Wufei's confession. Was there a chance that he, Harry, could be gay? For one brief moment, his eyes fell to rosy, dampened lips, and from out of nowhere came the strong urge to kiss them...

Reverting back to the stars, Harry called up a smile to belie the confusion and curiosity which were now battling within him. "No, 'Fei. It doesn't bother me."

The tension drained from the boy beside him, and Wufei smiled as well. "I'm glad we can still be friends. I don't have many... Well, none really, aside from you. I'm glad you aren't narrow minded like the majority of human kind."

"Hey, don't be so cheery, huh? You're a great guy and I'm sure that no one who truly got to know you could care about something so trivial. Human kind isn't narrow-minded, just uneducated. You'll see," replied Harry.

A comfortable silence spread between them for a few minutes as Harry and Wufei retreated into thought. Neither was sure how long passed when Wufei spoke up again. "So, what's a girl doing in St. Brutus' Center for Incurably Criminal Boys?"

Suddenly Harry's mind froze, going completely blank. "Oh, well.... I, uh...." He paused, literally stopping his thoughts in their tracks. Should he tell the truth? Wufei was a sensible boy, very trustworthy. Not to mention the only friend that Harry had in the Muggle world. It couldn't hurt to tell him, right? "I guess I need to make a confession as well. Although, mine is slightly harder to accept..." he cast a surreptitious glance at the boy beside him who was simply waiting patiently and smiling. "Well, I don't go to an all boy's school, not even a school in England or one that teaches Maths and English and Music. You see, I go to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

Wufei laughed, immediately assuming that was a joke. "Hogwarts? What a name... How on Earth did you come up with that?"

Harry smiled somewhat apologetically. In the back of his mind he hoped he'd made the right decision. "No joke, 'Fei. I'm a wizard. Wand, broom and all. The Dursley's made up that other school so no one would know. They're ashamed of having blood ties to the wizarding world."

The Asian boy considered this silently, his brow furrowed in concentration. "I believe you. I know it's a long shot, but I do. I can see that you're serious, and I know you wouldn't flat out lie to me. So other than you being insane, which is beside the point, I have no choice but to believe you are telling the truth." He nodded, seemingly pleased with this conclusion. Until it finally sunk in past his logical perimeters, that is. "My god.... A whole hidden world of magic? Is that even possible? I know I just said I believe you, but is there still a chance to back out? How could such a thing be hidden?"

"Magic, of course," Harry answered with a smile. "I didn't expect you to believe me so easily, though. Still, I'm glad. It means I have a lot less explaining to do."

"Uh, of course... magic... So, what's it like? You go to school and learn magick, right? At this Hogwarts place?" Wufei asked, looking awed and also intrigued.

"Yes, at Hogwarts. Wizards are chosen to start there at eleven years old. Of course, I didn't even know about the wizarding world until then...." Harry went on to tell Wufei the tale of his wizarding life from his lessons to his struggles with Lord Voldemort. Finally, he was able to talk about what he'd been feeling since leaving Hogwarts last year; Sirius' death, the prophecy and even the depression of life with the Dursleys once again.

Not being able to say anything in his letters, Harry had no way of communicating his feelings to Ron, Hermione and... No, Just Ron and Hermione, he had to keep reminding himself. The truth was, however, that he didn't think he could talk about this with them anyway. Therefore, unless he wanted to approach the Dursleys, Harry could only brood alone and cry more often than he had in his whole life.

Throughout it all, Wufei listened patiently, occasionally asking about some magical term or theory but mainly just letting Harry vent as he so needed to do. When he finally finished, Wufei smiled sweetly and looked into his eyes. "That's a lot for one boy to go through, Harry. You've had a tough life; living in a world of miracles and then returning to Privet Drive each year... I admire your strength. Very few people could handle life the way you have."

"I could never have done it with my friends and Sirius, of course..." Harry replied before realizing what he'd said. He turned his face away as tears threatened to fall for what must have been the thousandth time, but this time he wasn't alone.

Tentatively, Wufei reached out and placed a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Harry? I, I know I'm no match for your god father, but I'm here for you if you ever need to talk or anything... Let me help you."

Going with the pull on his shoulder, Harry soon found himself shedding new tears into the other boy's chest. The tears didn't last long, though. They never did anymore. Soon, the quiet flow ended and Harry was resting comfortably in Wufei's embrace. His cheek laid smoothly against a warm shoulder, and he savored the musky scent which surrounded him. For once, Harry felt safe and content in someone else's arms.

Reluctantly, he drew back, although, he was somewhat pleased to note that two strong arms were still wrapped around his body. He looked into those ebony eyes once more, and this time, he found what he needed. Without thinking any more, Harry reached up and locked his arms around Wufei's neck before tilting his face up to meet the soft lips which were descending to his own.

The kiss was sweet and soft, and when Harry finally pulled back lingeringly, his eyes falling open, he knew for certain that it didn't matter that he'd just kissed another boy.

Wufei was hesitant to open his eyes in fear that once he gave into reality, this beautiful dream would melt away. He did, however, and his breath caught to see that Harry did not appear to regret what had happened at all. "Harry..." he breathed, and lifted a hand to brush lightly over one flushed and beautiful cheek.

Dark, emerald depths gazed back at him, and Wufei couldn't resist cupping his hand around the back of Harry's neck and pulling him closer for another kiss. This time, there was more passion to it, and Wufei felt his cheeks flush. His cold hands brushed over Harry's hot skin, confirming that he wasn't the only one. He smiled against Harry's lips, his forehead resting against the other boy's. "Do you regret that?"

"No. I don't. I don't care what the Dursleys or anyone else would - wait! What time is it?" Harry asked frantically, groaning loudly when Wufei informed him that it was almost two o'clock. "Shit! I'm dead if the Order finds out about this! I swear, the only reason I'm even allowed out of the house is probably because they're having me followed again! I know that it's dangerous to be me, but I can defend myself, and - "

"Whoa! Slow down, Harry..." Wufei chided.

"Sorry, 'Fei. I'm just sick of being kept under lock and key, and... Wait a second..." Harry's voice seemed to take on a slightly more dangerous tone with this last part and he scrambled to his feet, peering into the darkness. "Kingsley, Mundungus, Tonks, Moody; whoever it is, come out now. I know you're there."

Wufei blinked and looked at him sideways. "Huh?" he asked.

Then, "Hello, Harry," called a voice from the shadows. Its owner then stepped into the moonlight, grey eyes twinkling, and an amused smirk on his face.

"Wufei, meet Remus Lupin, my old professor," Harry said to him, without taking his eyes off of the old werewolf.

The Asian youth raised an eyebrow, taking in the disheveled appearance of this new arrival. There was something he couldn't put his finger on... He inclined his head in a respectful greeting.

"Hello," Lupin replied with a small smile and inclination of the head in return.

"Then, I am being followed again," Harry stated rather coldly.

"Well I'd have thought you would assume so, Harry. You said it yourself, it's dangerous for you and -"

"Never mind, I understand. But... well.... How closely exactly have you been-"

"I neither heard nor saw a thing. At least, not according to the rest of the Order. I'm here for your protection, not to spy on you," grinned Lupin; his eyes twinkling cheerily.

"Good... I think..." Harry answered. On one hand, his fears had been confirmed; Lupin had seen and heard what happened. But on the other, it didn't seem as though he was too worried. Not even that Harry had told a Muggle all the secrets of the wizarding world.

"Perhaps we should think about getting you back to the Dursleys. It is very late, after all," Lupin suggested, breaking the silence.

"Uh, Yes. Good idea," replied the young wizard.

"I'll meet you there. Don't worry, those Muggles are too thick to even notice you were missing. Just be quick. Oh, and since I was caught, I don't think it would hurt to have a little chat and catch up. See you soon," the older man answered before Apparating out.

Harry stood still for a few moments trying to sort out his thoughts. He was still somewhat stuck on that last kiss, never mind that he'd been caught by none other than his old professor, was still being followed, and the fact that he needed to get back to Privet drive as fast as possible...

"Harry? Come on, let's get you home. We'll talk later." The Chinese boy ushered him towards the motorcycle and passed him a helmet.

They didn't speak much on the ride back to Little Whinging. Harry's mind was busy contemplating the events of the night, and he suspected that Wufei was doing the same. What did Lupin think of him? How was Wufei really handling the truth of his wizarding blood? Was he, Harry, really gay?

By the time they reached Privet Drive, Harry had not reached any conclusions other than the fact that, gay or not, he definitely needed to have that talk with Lupin, no matter how awkward it would be.

"You'd better drop me off here. The bike will probably draw attention to us," he cautioned.

The motorcycle puttered to a halt and Harry hopped off. "I guess I'll see you tomorrow." He smiled, holding out the spare helmet.

"Of course," replied Wufei. "I'll meet you at the park and we can talk."

Harry couldn't explain why exactly, but he was feeling happier than he had in a long time. "Bye, 'Fei," he called as the bike did a U-turn and headed back in the direction it had come.

As he walked down the street to the Dursleys, that small smile slowly spread to grin, and it wasn't until he reached the front doorstep that it occurred to Harry it might be locked. He was about to check when the door silently opened, and Lupin's thin form ushered him into the house. Relieved, Harry headed up the stairs first, cautiously stepping over the one that creaked and motioning for the werewolf to follow his lead.

They reached the upstairs landing without hassle, and Harry paused, listening for any sound that the Dursleys might be awake. Hearing only Uncle Vernon's heaving breathing, Aunt Petunia's deep snoring and Dudley grunting about pink boxing gloves, he led Lupin into his room and the older wizard performed a quick spell to dampen any sounds they might make. Letting out a huge breath, he flopped back down on the bed.

Lupin watched the boy relax, feeling glad that he could do so. From what he'd seen, the boy wasn't doing too well.

"I... I suppose you saw..." Harry trailed off. Lupin simply nodded. "You don't, uh, don't have anything to say about it?"

Lupin paused thoughtfully for a moment and took a deep breath. "You're old enough to make your own choices, and you have the right to do so. If you believe that you're attracted to Wufei, then I honestly could not be happier that you've found someone who returns your feelings." He paused again. "I... also support you from my own personal perspective."

"You mean...-"

"Yes, Harry. I-I'm gay."

"Then, you and Sirius...?" The werewolf nodded. "I'm sorry."

"No. Don't be. He was just as important to you as he was to me; Perhaps even more so. That's one of the things I wanted to talk to you about." Lupin stood and began to pace in front of the bed. "We haven't been able to contact you by owl or other means, and I'm not supposed to communicate with you in person. All I've been able to go on is your outward impression. It wasn't until tonight that I saw just how deeply affected you have been. Will, will you be okay?"

"Yeah. I'm fine. At least, I am now. I've had to keep everything inside until tonight, but after talking toi I feel much better. I trust him even more than I do Hermione and Ron, and that is saying a lot. I know he won't tell anyone about the wizarding world. Otherwise, I wouldn't have said anything," the boy rambled, still smiling lazily and relaxing. "I'm really glad I met him, you know."

"That's good, Harry. I think you need someone in the Muggle world, and I think that Wufei is that person. He's definitely good for you and he seems like an o.k. kid. Even if he does have some, delinquent, tendencies," Lupin grinned mischievously.

Harry studied the wizards face, glad to find that cheeky gleam, rather than true worry. He knew that Wufei wasn't ideal as a person. He was rather rude, anti-social, sexist and ds, but to Harry, he was simply wonderful. "I'll miss him when I go back to Hogwarts. It will be a long time before I can see him again."

"You'll still be able to talk, you know. And there will be plenty of opportunities to visit during Christmas. I'm sure I can arrange something." Lupin sat back down in front of Harry. "Everything will work out. You'll see."

"Remus?" The use of his first name caught Lupin's attention. He frowned, looking into Harry's eyes. "I, well, why now? I mean... I know I liked Cho Chang, and it's not like I've noticed any other guys before."

Lupin laughed. "You're getting older, Harry. Hormones change or develop. Who knows? Maybe you're attracted to both sexes or perhaps Wufei is just special. I suppose you'll know when you return to Hogwarts." Patting Harry on the knee, Lupin stood once more, and pulled out his wand. "I should go. You need some sleep and Molly will begin to worry about you if I don't report back soon. Take care, Harry. I'll talk to you next time I'm on duty. Oh, and do be careful with what you do around Wufei. Who knows, it may be Moody watching next time, or Tonks. You know what a gossiper she is."

Harry grinned, just catching Lupin's wink before he disappeared. He slowly got up, and switched off the light, only now realizing how tired his body was. As he rolled over and drifted off to sleep, Harry sighed into his pillow, welcoming the dreams of stolen kisses and soft black hair which would be forgotten with the sunrise.