No matter what you say, how you say it, or how often you say it, words cannot and do not express love. "I love you", "I need you", "Stay with me", "You're the only one"… That doesn't mean anything, because anyone can SAY things. Anyone can SAY they mean it, and SAY what they want you to hear, but they could very well be lying. Any person can come up to you, telling you with words that they love you, and that they'll never leave. That doesn't make it true. Words don't mean anything; you have to express your love with your actions and feelings. Well, that's what Harry thinks at least.


Harry and Draco walked hand in hand around the edge of the Black Lake, each as silent as the air around them. It was the Christmas holidays, and most of the Hogwarts students had retreated home, but not them. The sun was just beginning to set behind the castle, washing everything, including themselves, in a pinkish glow. The only sound they could hear was the crunch of cold grass under their feet, making their perfectly rhythmic footsteps audible. Harry leaned his head on Draco's shoulder as they walked, and Draco felt a smile tugging at his lips as he side-glanced at his raven-haired companion. He was looking down, almost closing his eyes, but keeping them open enough to see where he was walking. Draco breathed a sigh of content.

Draco stopped walking, which caused Harry to look up at him with curiosity in his emerald eyes. Draco stared for a moment into the pitch black water before looking at Harry. Harry stared into the blonde's intense grey eyes, losing himself when he was pulled into an embrace. Harry buried his head in the other boy's neck, breathing softly.

He lifted his head after several more silent moments and brought his gaze down to Draco's shirt; black and long sleeved, like always. Harry lifted a hand and dragged his fingers down one of the sleeves, then across his chest, then back to the sleeve. His fingers closed around the fabric and without warning, pulled Draco toward him, touching their lips together softly. Draco parted his lips immediately, not waiting for Harry to ask. Harry melted into him, winding his arms around Draco's waist.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

"I need you."

"I know."

"Stay with me."

"Forever."

"You're the only one."

"Always."

Just because words don't mean anything, doesn't mean it's not nice to hear them…