There was a note sitting on the table. Vernon gestured for Harry. "Open it." So Harry did.

"Greetings Dursley household. I am Professor McGonagal, head of Griffindor house. I am pleased to inform you that Harry Potter is doing very well in his classes. However, it has come to our attention that Harry might be dealing with Bullies at home. During his stay at Hogwarts we had to remove his shirt so we could treat him properly for injuries obtained at the school. Not to worry, they were not serious, it's just protocol. Upon the removal of his shirt he found sever bruising and burn marks, along with cuts and scars that dated approximately as soon as before he left for Hogwarts. Rest assured that we have healed all scarred skin and he it as good as new as of this moment. However, we will have to come down check to make sure that all is well. Hoping you are well, Professor McGonagal." It then closed itself off and fell.

Harry turned to look a Vernon. Bad mistake. He was met with a large fist to his face the knocked him across the room. Vernon beat Harry with mo hold back. "What did you tell them! You lying little freak, bringing that insanity into this house! You're worthless." Vernon spat as he scrame. Punching anything he could. "After all we've done for you! After he gave you the food off our plates and a roof over your head! What? Is it not enough. Do you like it when I get pissed? Do you want me to be angry?! Obviously you do!" Vernon ranted and ranted. Hitting and kicking. Spitting and screaming. He nearly beat Harry to death that day.

Voldemort watched in horror. Harry couldn't turn away. He couldn't look away. He collapsed as the memories flooded into him. Voldemort watched as Harry fell to his knees, desperate not to cry. It hurt but Harry swore he wouldn't cry.

Tom wanted to give Harry a hug. He knew Harry needed a hug, but that might be a bit much. He placed a gentle hand on the boy's shoulder. Harry looked up at him. Their eyes met. "It's okay." Tom said. Without thinking Harry latched onto Tom in a tight hug as uncontrollable sobs poured out of him. Though he was shocked and first, Tom knew Harry needed this. He brought himself down to Harry and held him in his arms. It had then occurred to him, just how broken Harry was. Voldemort's heart ached as he held Potter. As this moment Harry was like a porcelain figurine. Shattered and destroyed, but still held together by scotch tape. A few pieces missing. They stayed like that for the whole beating and then some time after.

Something changed in that moment. Something in their relationship changed beyond return.