Chapter Text
Harry is aware of what's going to happen next, knows what will follow but it simply doesn't feel real until the adoption papers are on the table staring at him. He was there at the interviews but it still didn't feel real.
These papers though, just seem so final. He's happy of course, incredibly grateful but he feels a bit apprehensive. He supposes that it's because he has had no parental figures before and it's completely uncharted territory. His heart catches in his throat and suddenly he's crying again for the second time this summer.
Emily - he really ought to start calling her Mum now (although he knows she would never force him) - gives him a warm hug. It isn't overbearing but it's not distant either. It's comfortable and Harry realises that he quite enjoys it.
He's become a bit addicted to Hugo and Emily's hugs, he knows. At least he'll never be out of Hermione hugs.
He sets his gaze to the table where three unwrapped presents lay.
The first is a deck of cards which he is sure to use. He's learnt at least three different card games not to mention tricks in the time he’s been there.
The second - your glasses don't count Harry James! - is a selection of his favourite treats ranging from Treacle Tarts to Mars Bars.
The third - your wardrobe doesn't count either! - is a black photo album. On the front page is a heartfelt note from the Grangers - the sort you would expect to see in a birthday card.
Finally, although Harry isn't sure a present is the right word, there are the papers in front of him.
Harry soon overcomes his initial reluctance - the Grangers aren't going to harm him and he likes them, even if he doesn't love Hermione's parents quite yet.
He picks up the pen - oh, the wonders of the Muggle World, why do they have to use quills in school? - and signs. Why ever not?
He choses to change his name to Harry Granger-Evans, he wishes to get away from Harry Potter in the near future, and gleefully grabs his sister as they bounce energetically around the room. He doesn't care, he's allowed to be childish! He is a child!
He doesn't care what anyone else thinks. Besides, don't they have their own last days of summer to bother about?