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Sirius can tell without being told that his godson is very uncertain that Sirius actually wants to take care of him this summer. He’d been surprised by Harry’s quick acceptance of his offer coming out of the shack, but once he was officially freed, he’d immediately gone to the Dursleys to get his kid (despite Dumbledore’s protests).
He’d been surprised when Harry still said yes, and even more surprised by how embarrassed he looked when the Dursleys were far too willing to hand him over to someone that had no proof was innocent. It worried him because that meant any death eater could’ve done the same and Harry would’ve been in danger.
He’d been so angry when Harry had asked, “You want me to live you, really?” in a surprised voice, followed by Vernon and Petunia muttering about how he obviously had to be touched in the head to want to take care of Harry.
Harry had been embarrassed, but Sirius had reassured him that he does want Harry and had made a point in the last two weeks to make sure that Harry feels wanted and loved by including him in the decoration of their new home. His efforts seem to help Harry feel more comfortable.
That is until the night before Harry’s birthday, at dinner, when he asks, “So, Harry, what would you like to do for your birthday?”
Harry looks up, completely confused. “We don’t have to do anything.”
“Of course we do – I’ve never gotten to celebrate a birthday with you and you’re turning fourteen, that’s a shame. So, we have to make this one extra special. It’s our first one together.”
Harry shrugs.
What kid doesn’t have thoughts on celebrating their own birthday? “Uh, what did you do last year?”
Harry chokes on his dinner, “It’s not important.”
“I think it is,” Sirius retorts, concerned. Harry’s refusing to look at him, his eyes downcast and focused on his food. “Kid, I know the Dursleys weren’t great and that isn’t your fault, but however they treated you – I want to know.”
“It’s nothing – they just ignored it, aside from announcing Aunt Marge’s visit and well, she sucks, but I got back at her – I blew her up.”
There’s so many things wrong with Harry’s response that Sirius immediately wants to have a not so pleasant chat with the kind of adults that would ignore a child’s birthday. Knowing that Harry’s clearly nervous and doesn’t want to answer any more questions, Sirius sighs and lets it go.
“Well, whatever they did or didn’t do – I’m not them. So, let’s plan an awesome birthday for the best kid in the world,” Sirius grins.
Harry gives him a shy smile, “You really want to do that?”
“I really do,” Sirius assures him. “You’re a great kid and you deserve the world.”
Touched, Harry gets up and hugs Sirius. “Thanks, Sirius, you’re the best godfather ever.”