Percival knew that the man he had taken into his home had been abused, that he had been raised with some expectations that left Percival feeling sick. It was still heartbreaking to see how Credence flinched away from the tailor, clearly uncomfortable. He pressed his hand to Credence’s shoulder, steadying him.

Credence closed his eyes, and Percival ran his thumb across Credence’s skin, separated only by the thin fabric of Credence’s shirt. He could feel scars beneath the fabric, and anger burned inside of him that anyone had chosen to hurt someone like Credence. That he could view himself as worth so little he didn’t even view what had happened as wrong. Percival would show him how wrong it was.

The tailor went to fetch clothing of a suitable size.
“Will you be alright if I wait just outside?” Percival asked, not wishing to see the scars that clearly covered Credence’s body. He knew that he should face it, but he was only too aware of the marks of his own, the look on Grindelwald’s face as he threw another curse at him. Right now, he thought that seeing those scars might make him break the Statute of Secrecy as he went to seek revenge on the woman who had caused such injuries.

Credence nodded wordlessly, and Percival stood outside, catching the tailor’s arm as he walked back.
“Don’t talk to him about the prices.”
The tailor nodded, and went inside. Percival stood there, hoping that was right. He knew Credence would only worry about the cost. It felt oddly sordid, buying clothes for the other man. Percival reminded himself with a wry smile that they were married.

When Credence emerged from the changing room, he looked taller than when he had entered. The new suit fitted perfectly, and he looked smart. There was a soft smile on Credence’s lips, as though he couldn’t believe how he looked, and Percival leaned in and brushed his lips to Credence’s cheek.
“You look wonderful.”

That made a delicate blush creep up Credence’s neck. Percival smiled a little to himself, before going and paying for the clothes, arranging for more to be sent to his house. There was so much with Credence that he didn’t know what to do, how to help. But this at least he could do, and it felt good to take care of him.

***

Credence smiled shyly at his husband, flattered by his gentle praise. His hand reached out to squeeze Mister Graves own, and he let him guide him along the street. He paused as they approached the Woolworth Building, waiting just for a moment.
“Credence?” Mister Graves asked, and Credence jumped slightly.

“Sorry.” He murmured.
“No need to apologise. What was it?”
“It’s not far from the orphanage.” Credence admitted, memories overwhelming him, and Percival nodded, guiding him towards the grand doors.
“That’s not your life anymore.” Percival said firmly, and Credence closed his eyes for a moment. He walked forwards, and as he opened his eyes he saw that the internal building looked different. It was shining metal and polished granite, a statue in the middle, a large clock hanging from the ceiling. He looked around in awe, and Mister Graves just smiled at him.
“Stick close to me okay?”
“Of course.” Credence answered, and he followed Mister Graves up the stairs. It was an incredible place. He stared at some strange people with pointed ears.

“House elves.” Percival murmured. “It’s rude to stare.”
“Sorry.” Credence mumbled. He stared at the floor, but couldn’t resist glancing up at the building. It was beautiful.

They walked along a stone corridor, and there were other people working on the desk. This building was full of people. He coughed slightly.
“Mister Graves?”
“Yes Credence?”
“Is everyone here a witch or a wizard?”
“Yes.” Mister Graves said firmly. “Everyone here is. Including you.”

Credence thrilled a little at that, walking with Mister Graves through the corridors. He could feel everyone’s eyes upon him. He ducked his head, trying not to look out of place, suddenly self-conscious, relieved when he saw Tina’s sister. They walked into Mister Graves office.

“Here…” Mister Graves quickly moved a few things around, and pointed at a desk he had placed in the corner with a large chair. “You can work here. Will you be alright sorting out more files? Just like you did that night?”
“I’d be happy to.” Credence agreed, sitting down. Mister Graves handed over some files and he started to work.

“I just need to deal with a few things. I’ll be back soon. Stay here, alright? If you need anything, just stick your head round the door.”
Credence nodded, and watched as his husband walked out of the office. He turned to the files, trying to ignore the fear that boiled inside of him as his husband left him alone. He was safe here. His husband was coming back. He kept reminding himself of that.

***

Percival walked out of his office, leaving Credence sat at his desk. He smiled a little, and closed the door. He was a little concerned, but he didn’t look back. Credence would be fine in his office. He needed to speak to Grindelwald.

He paused, looking over his shoulder at his aurors.
“Goldstein. I need you with me.”

She hurried to his side.
“Why is Credence here today?” She asked softly.
“It’s a long story. I’ll explain after we go and interview the man who is responsible for this mess.”
Tina frowned a little.
“Are you sure it’s a good idea?”
“He married me to someone Goldstein. I think we need to talk.”