Hi everyone! I just wanted to put a few quick ANs on here before I start the story to answer questions you may or may not have. First of all, this story takes place during Harry's seventh year at Hogwarts. Voldie is still around. This story is a HP/SS slash fic, but more emphasis will be placed on Draco and his relationship with a character I've created. You'll probably have a lot of questions about her, but you'll find out at the same time as the rest of Hogwarts, ie, chapter 8 or so. The chapters are short, in hopes that I can update at least once a week. Other than that, thanks for the reviews, and keep 'em coming!!

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"Harry!"

A boy who must answer to that name turned to find the source of the squealing. He was attacked by a bushy, brown haired girl and engulfed in a giant hug. He nodded to a red-haired boy following.

"Ron."

"Harry! How was your summer?"

"Great," Harry said, free of sarcasm for once. "The Dursleys went away for six weeks. I had the house to myself. Snuffles and some other wizards came to visit."

"'Mione, I think we all know Harry's back and we're all glad to see him, but." Ron said.

The girl let Harry go and stepped back to Ron with a blush.

"Sorry, Harry. I'm just glad to see you."

"Likewise, Miss Granger," Harry said with a theatrical bow.

The three boarded the train and passed an uneventful day. Ron and Hermione filled Harry in on the events of their summers. They reached a calm silence and enjoyed it, basking in the feel of companionship, until the door flew open. Draco Malfoy stood in the hallway, without his bodyguards.

"Tradition," Malfoy smirked. "Every year for the past six, I've come in here, traded insults, and gotten the term off to a good start. This year, though it be the seventh and our last, should be no different."

"Where are your bodyguards?" Ron asked. Harry watched the two other men carefully.

"Azkaban," Malfoy answered easily. Hermione turned white and Ron gaped silently. Draco looked at Harry and raised an eyebrow. Harry shook his head and Malfoy shrugged before leaving.

"What the hell was that?" Ron shrieked.

"Definitely out of character," Hermione added.

Harry just leaned back in his chair and smiled.