Under the Cursed Moon - CH - 19 (Patreon)

The transition was smoother than Leah had anticipated. Moving in with the Blacks felt surprisingly natural. Of course, if anyone asked, Leah was simply their new servant, hired to help with Teddy and the housework. It was easier that way—to avoid raising questions or stirring gossip. After all, explaining the unique nature of their growing relationship would only invite confusion, maybe even judgment. And while they weren’t ashamed of what was blossoming between them, the timing was delicate. So, for now, she would play the role of their live-in helper.

Leah quickly found her place within their household, her role evolving in ways that allowed her to slip seamlessly into the daily rhythms of life with the Blacks. Every morning, she would wake up early and head to the kitchen to help Hermione prepare breakfast. It wasn’t a difficult task—Hermione was more than capable in the kitchen—but the two of them found a quiet comfort in working together. Leah would chop vegetables or stir the eggs while Hermione brewed coffee, the morning air filled with the smell of fresh food and gentle conversation.

Teddy, as expected, adored Leah. He would run into the kitchen, arms wide open, shouting her name, ready to play or tell her about some new adventure he’d imagined. Leah would scoop him up, laughing as he babbled excitedly, and often spend the morning entertaining him while Hermione and Harry handled their business matters. Whether it was reading to him or playing in the garden, Teddy’s bright energy was a constant source of joy for her. It was easy to see why the Blacks cherished him so much—his laughter was contagious, his heart pure.

Around the house, Leah took on various small tasks, though nothing felt particularly like “servant work.” She kept the space tidy, ensured Teddy’s toys didn’t take over the living room, and sometimes even sorted through Harry and Hermione’s mail. But it was never overwhelming, because there was a sense of teamwork in the Black household. Harry was not one to leave messes lying around, and Hermione was naturally organized. In many ways, Leah felt more like a contributing member of the family than a servant.

To the outside world, however, the lines were clear. When visitors came, Leah played her part, quietly serving tea or attending to minor tasks. She would stand in the background while Harry and Hermione entertained their guests, making sure her role was never questioned. But there was a mutual understanding between the three of them—a silent agreement that once the door closed behind their visitors, Leah was no mere servant. She was family.

In private moments, Hermione and Leah’s bond continued to grow. Hermione was kind, more than Leah had expected, and far more understanding than anyone else might have been in her position. They had deep, meaningful conversations—about life, love, and the delicate nature of their situation. One evening, after Teddy had fallen asleep and Harry was holed up in his study with work, Hermione poured them both a glass of wine, and they sat together on the couch, the air between them warm and open.

“I want you to know,” Hermione said, her voice soft but steady, “that I’ve come to accept you for who you are, Leah. Not just because of the imprint, but because you’re a good person. I can see how much you care, and I trust you.”

Leah smiled, touched by her words. “That means a lot to me, Hermione. I was so worried at first… about how this would all work.”

“I know,” Hermione replied, taking a sip of her wine. “And I won’t lie—it wasn’t easy at first. But I’ve watched how you are with Teddy, how you are with Harry… You’ve become a part of our lives in such a natural way. I couldn’t imagine things any other way now.”

Leah’s heart warmed at Hermione’s acceptance. “Thank you. I feel the same. This… this feels right. Like I’m where I’m supposed to be.”

They sat in companionable silence for a moment, sipping their wine, the glow of the evening settling around them.

“And Harry?” Leah asked, her voice hesitant.

Hermione smiled, a knowing glint in her eyes. “Harry is… Harry. He takes time with these things. But trust me, he’s not blind to what’s happening here. He just needs to come around in his own time. But he will.”

Leah nodded, feeling reassured. “I’ll be patient.”

Hermione laughed softly. “Good. Patience is key with him. But I’ve seen the way he looks at you sometimes. He cares more than he lets on. Give him time.”

Living in La Push, with its golden sands and the rhythmic lull of the waves, Leah had always been captivated by the ocean. Growing up near the beach, she often spent her days soaking in the sun, building sandcastles, and watching the surfers dance across the water. But despite the ocean being her backyard, Leah had never learned how to surf. It seemed like a distant dream, one that felt daunting and, to be honest, a bit intimidating.

Harry and Hermione were master surfers, a perfect duo slicing through the waves with grace and skill. Each morning, they would head out to the beach with an array of surfboards, laughing and teasing each other as they suited up. Leah would take her place on the shore, a smile on her face as she watched them perform impressive tricks, soaring above the waves and cutting through the water with effortless ease. Their joy was infectious, but it only served to highlight her insecurities.

Teddy, with his boundless energy, would join Leah on the beach, eager to immerse himself in the adventure. His favorite pastime was constructing elaborate sandcastles, complete with tiny crabs he’d collect from the tide pools, using them as the "monsters" in his imaginary kingdoms. He would regale Leah with tales of heroic knights defending their castles, his imagination running wild, while she encouraged his creativity, laughing at his antics. But as she watched Harry and Hermione surf, the way they moved together in perfect harmony, Leah couldn’t help but feel a pang of envy.

She caught herself staring at them, the sun glistening off their bodies. Hermione, with her hourglass figure, looked stunning in her bikini, cutting through the waves like a siren of the sea. Harry, his muscular form glistening with saltwater, was equally breathtaking, embodying the essence of summer and freedom. Leah felt a flush of heat rise to her cheeks, a mix of admiration and longing. She had always been self-conscious about her own body, feeling flat-chested and lacking the curves that made Hermione so effortlessly beautiful. Watching Harry surf made her heart race, but it also made her feel inadequate.

Despite this inner turmoil, Leah desperately wanted to learn how to surf. The ocean called to her, and she yearned to feel the thrill of catching a wave. Yet, the thought of trying to keep up with Harry and Hermione made her hesitate. She felt the weight of her insecurities holding her back.

One afternoon, as they lounged on the beach after another exciting surf session, Hermione turned to Leah, her eyes sparkling with encouragement. “You know, Leah, you should really give surfing a try. It’s so much fun!”

Leah chuckled nervously, shaking her head. “I don’t think I could ever keep up with you two. I’m not like you, Hermione. You and Harry make it look so easy.”

Hermione flashed her a reassuring smile. “Trust me, it’s all about practice. You’ll surprise yourself. Besides, Harry loves teaching. Isn’t that right, Harry?”

Harry nodded enthusiastically, joining the conversation. “Absolutely! I’d be happy to teach you, Leah. It’s all about finding your balance and having fun. Don’t worry about what you look like; it’s about the experience.”

Leah felt her heart flutter at his words, but her insecurities crept back in. “I don’t want to be the awkward one struggling while you both show off.”

“Everyone has to start somewhere,” Harry said, his tone earnest. “I promise, it’s a blast. And you won’t be awkward—I can’t wait to see you out there!”

Encouraged by their support, Leah hesitated for a moment but then nodded slowly. “Okay, I’ll give it a shot. But I can’t promise I won’t be clumsy.”

“Clumsy is welcome,” Hermione grinned. “Just remember to have fun. We’ll be right there with you.”

The next morning, Leah stood on the beach, a surfboard awkwardly under her arm, her nerves bubbling to the surface. Harry and Hermione were already in the water, their laughter echoing against the waves. Leah took a deep breath, reminding herself that she was ready to try.

With Harry guiding her, they began with the basics. He showed her how to position herself on the board and the importance of finding her center of balance. Leah watched intently, focusing on his every word, the way he moved effortlessly on the board.

“Okay, now lie down on your stomach,” Harry instructed, positioning himself next to her. “You need to get used to the feel of the board in the water.”

Leah obeyed, her heart racing with both excitement and nerves. She felt the coolness of the water beneath her, the gentle rocking of the waves lulling her into a state of calm.

“Now paddle,” he said, demonstrating with smooth strokes. “Keep your arms straight and pull the water back. It’s like swimming, but you’re on a board.”

As she paddled, Leah felt the thrill of the water beneath her, the sun warming her skin. She concentrated, trying to match Harry’s movements, and as she looked over at him, she caught a glimpse of the pride in his eyes.

“You’re doing great!” he encouraged, beaming at her. “Now let’s try standing up.”

With Harry’s help, Leah practiced the motions of standing. He guided her step by step, and with each attempt, she felt a mix of fear and exhilaration. On her third try, she managed to stand up, albeit briefly, before tumbling back into the water.

“Nice job, Leah!” Harry cheered as she resurfaced, laughter spilling from her lips as she sputtered water. “You’re a natural!”

Leah couldn’t help but smile, feeling a rush of adrenaline. With Harry’s guidance and Hermione cheering from the shore, she began to feel more at ease. They spent hours out in the ocean, Leah gradually growing more confident as she learned to ride the waves, feeling the joy of the surf beneath her.

Though the initial insecurities lingered, each time she fell, she laughed it off, buoyed by the support of her newfound family. Leah knew she had taken a significant step, not just in learning to surf but in embracing her place in this unique relationship.

And as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the water, Leah felt a sense of belonging wash over her. She was no longer just a spectator. She was part of the magic of the ocean, part of Harry and Hermione’s world—and she was ready to ride the waves of whatever came next.

Life at the Blacks was settling into a pleasant rhythm for Leah. Although she had moved in with Harry and Hermione, she made it a point to visit her tribe frequently. Each visit was a refreshing reminder of her roots, and she cherished the moments spent reconnecting with her family and friends. On days when Harry and Hermione were busy, Leah often took on the role of caretaker for Teddy. It became a routine she loved; they would drive back to her home together, filled with laughter and stories.

Harry had gifted Leah one of his luxury cars, a sleek, black sedan that gleamed under the sun. He insisted she use it whenever she wanted to go out. “You shouldn’t have to worry about transportation, Leah. Just take it whenever you need it,” he had said, his voice warm and genuine. Leah was still amazed by the gesture. It wasn’t just a car; it symbolized a connection, a sense of freedom that she hadn’t fully experienced before.

Whenever Leah drove with Teddy to visit her tribe, the two of them reveled in the experience. Teddy’s eyes would widen with excitement as they settled into the plush leather seats, and the engine purred to life. The roads wound around the beach, and as they pulled out of the driveway, Leah could see the admiration in the eyes of their neighbors. Word had spread about Harry’s generosity, and there were whispers of jealousy among the tribe members. Leah was no longer just Leah; she was Harry Potter’s girl—an unusual title, but one that made her feel important.

Seth, ever the enthusiastic little brother, loved to join them on these outings. “Can I come with you, Leah?” he would ask, his voice filled with eagerness. “I want to feel like a rich kid too!”

“Of course, Seth! Hop in!” Leah would reply, grinning as Seth climbed into the back seat, already bubbling with stories of his latest school adventures.

As they drove, Teddy would bounce in his seat, eyes sparkling with mischief. “Let’s chase that car!” he would exclaim, pointing excitedly at the vehicles ahead of them. “Go, Leah! Go!”

Leah couldn’t help but laugh at his infectious energy. “Alright, Teddy, hold on tight!” she would say, pressing down on the accelerator. The car surged forward, and Teddy squealed with delight, his laughter filling the car.

Seth would join in on the fun, egging Leah on. “Come on, go faster! We can catch them!” He loved the thrill of it all, the wind whipping through his hair as they raced down the road. Leah took joy in these moments, feeling alive and free, the world around them a blur.

The three of them formed a little family of their own during these drives. Leah would share snippets of her life with them, and Seth would respond with exaggerated tales of his schoolyard exploits. “Today, I totally aced my math test! And Mrs. Thompson said I’m the best at drawing! You should see my dinosaurs!” he would boast, his eyes wide with pride.

Teddy would giggle, adding his imaginative tales of brave knights and magical creatures. “I built the biggest castle ever, and there were dragons flying everywhere! I saved the day!”

Leah would nod, encouraging their creativity. “Wow, you two are amazing! Maybe one day we can all be heroes in a real adventure!” she would say, her heart swelling with affection for the boys.

When they arrived at her house, Leah’s mother was usually at work, leaving Leah to entertain the boys. Seth quickly took on the role of the older brother figure, telling Teddy about the various things he did in school. “You know, Teddy, I learned how to do a backflip on the playground! You should try it when you’re older,” he would say, puffing out his chest as if he were a superhero.

As Leah watched them, she couldn’t help but smile at how well they all fit together. Despite the initial strangeness of her new life, she found joy in the simple moments shared with Teddy and Seth. Her heart was full, and she relished the fact that she could be a part of something so wonderful.

In the evenings, they would often gather at Leah’s home, playing games and building sandcastles in the backyard. Sometimes, Leah would take out her surfboard and pretend to show Teddy how to ride the waves, her heart swelling with pride as he cheered her on, eager to emulate her.

Back at the Blacks’ house, Harry and Hermione would often tease Leah about her newfound celebrity status among the tribe. “Looks like you’re quite the big shot now, Leah,” Harry would say with a smirk, wrapping an arm around her shoulder.

“I can see the envy in their eyes whenever you pull up in that car!” Hermione added, laughing.

“Hey, it’s not my fault!” Leah would retort playfully. “I didn’t ask for this attention. I’m just trying to live my life!”

But deep down, Leah knew she enjoyed it. She was grateful for Harry and Hermione’s support and the opportunity to live this new life. With each visit to her tribe, Leah was carving out a space for herself, one filled with love, laughter, and adventure.