(HP) Hoping for Normal

[jackie_rambles]

Title: Hoping for Normal
Fandom: Harry Potter
Author: jackiejlh
Rating: PG-13
Character(s): Petunia Dursley, Vernon Dursley, Harry Potter, Dudley Dursley
Pairing(s): Petunia/Vernon
Warning(s): None
Author's Note: Hoping for Normal is the third story in the Spaces universe. While it is not 100% necessary that prior stories be read first, it is recommended.

Comments

[katmarajade]

This made me weep. Oh my word. Her loneliness and desperation come across so clearly. Harry's crying and nightmares are heartbreaking and Petunia caring so much and being so overwhelmed and not having anyone to really lean on is like a punch to the gut. You can almost feel her giving up. And her worry about Dudley and her real love for him is just beautiful. So many parts of this touched me and broke my heart. But this most of all:
He may look exactly like that awful James Potter, but his ability to outshine those around him is pure Lily. Every time Petunia sees another child on the playground choose to play with Harry over Dudley, it makes her heart ache with bitter memories.

Still, it's better than the boys playing together. One day those people will come to steal Harry back, just like Lily was taken away all those years ago. Petunia can't bear the thought of Dudley being hurt in the way she was; when her son pushes Harry away and wanders off to play by himself, she can't quite bring herself to scold him.