Draco nervously paced the length of his room. It was just after noon and he was already itching to go to Harry's. He had already memorized the address but kept folding and unfolding Harry's note repeatedly, the thin paper starting to tear in spots. He didn't want to drop in before 2 and he had no idea how to waste two hours. After a few more laps, his eyes widened and he realized he didn't have anything to bring. Gabe had missed years of presents from him but he knew Harry wouldn't appreciate Draco showing up with nearly 4 years worth of gifts for the boy. A pale, long finger absently tapped his chin as he thought before he quickly grabbed his bag of Galleons and apparated to Diagon Alley.
He nearly smacked his own forehead at his stupidity; shopping was always a good way to while away some hours.
~*O*~
Harry hurried home, hoping Draco would come early and see Gabe before dinner. He gnawed on a thumb nail, anxious to have Gabe spend time with the man. His thoughts were all over the place and he cursed silently. He should have been more pissed at Draco, he wanted to feel cheated he hadn't been able to yell and holler at the blonde, but he wasn't able to get himself angry enough. Whether from the alcohol or a new sort of maturity, Draco had been heart-wrenchingly honest.
He didn't want Gabe to get attached and have Draco decide against a relationship with them, though. He didn't want Draco to meet him and have Gabe not get along. Though Harry had to admit Gabe had been amazingly open to him when they met the other day and had ice cream. The memory brought a smile to his face, even if Draco looked more shocked than happy at the time.
Harry glanced at the clock and started pacing.
~*O*~
Draco wandered around Zonko's, wondering what would be appropriate for an-almost-four year old. He knew little about the boy's preferences and could only guess at how Harry would react to many of the things Draco looked at. Certainly just buying everything wouldn't be looked upon favorably.
Toy broom? No, Harry was getting him a real one and Draco didn't want to interfere with that.
Amateur potions set? If Gabe took after Harry in that subject, it would most likely be wasted, he thought with a small smile. Of course, if he took after Draco it might be a very welcomed gift. He chewed the inside of his cheek before moving on. He'd rather find out how appropriate it would be first.
Stuffed animals? Maybe; Harry did say he liked dragons. Draco smiled, trying to pick between a blue Chinese Fireball or a Welsh Green. He shook his head, bemused at his indecision and just tucked one under his arm and wandered the store some more before he made his purchases and realized he was going to be late to Harry's.
~*O*~
Harry was pacing the sitting room unaware of Gabe's watchful gaze. "Daddy," Gabe's quiet voice broke into Harry's thoughts. "What's wrong?" he asked. He didn't look worried, just confused. He had paused mid-way through coloring a dinosaur, his Muggle crayon tucked neatly behind his ear like Harry did with his quills and pens, watching his trek from one end of the room to the other.
"Oh, nothing, love. I was hoping we'd have a friend stop by..." Harry trailed off to look at the clock again. 2:15. He didn't specify to come at 2, just mentioned he'd be home at 2. Draco had only invited himself to dinner. At 6. Merlin; four more hours of pacing would drive him crazy.
"Daddy." Gabe waited until he had daddy's attention before continuing, "Is it Mister Maffloy? Is he coming over?"
Harry nodded. "Malfoy," he corrected absently. He started and blinked at his son, "What— Why would you ask about him?"
Gabe shrugged and went back to coloring with his crayons. "I dunno. I was just wonderin'. I thought he was nice and he seemed to like you." He looked up again, his grey eyes wide and a sly smile on his small face. "I think he thought you were pretty," he whispered dramatically with a giggle.
"Handsome, munchkin," Harry said and couldn't help but laugh. "Boys... er… men are handsome, not pretty." He knelt down and gave Gabe's dark messy hair a ruffle. "What makes you say that, anyway?" He managed to stop himself from biting his lip as he waited for Gabe to answer. Sometimes, he was glad his son was so smart and observant.
Gabe shrugged again, "Well, he was pretty, er, I mean handsome. I liked his hair." He jumped up quickly and ruffled daddy's hair back. "I think it's pretty. And he was looking at you like uncle Arnold looks at aunt Hermione. That means he likes you and thinks you're handsome, right?" he asked, his face open and serious.
Harry could only nod, stunned. "Right." He wasn't too surprised, but he hadn't really noticed much slip past Draco's old stoic mask very often.
Gabe giggled, laying back on the floor to continue his coloring. "And I think you thought he was pretty, er I mean, handsome, too, daddy," he accused happily, his grey eyes sparkling. He knew his daddy liked other daddies and he hoped he would like Mr. Malfoy. He was nice to daddy and he liked chocolate ice cream.
Harry was about to answer (probably with childish disagreement) when there was a knock on the front door. He nearly fell over as he quickly whirled around to look towards the sound. Gabe bounced up with a whoop and a shouted "He's here!" as he ran towards the front door. Harry laughed when he walked down the entryway and saw Gabe bouncing on the balls of his feet, waiting for Harry to open the door. He was pleased Gabe remembered he wasn't allowed to open the door himself and gave him a pleased nod as he passed.
Still smiling, Harry opened the door to greet a flustered looking Draco.
Draco felt the wind get knocked out of him when he saw the smile on Harry's face. He had to clear his throat before he could speak. "Hello, Harry. I hope it's alright if I'm early. For dinner," he added quickly, and looked down before the man could answer and saw a bouncing Gabe. "Hello, Gabe. Nice to see you again," he said with a smile at the exuberant child and extended a hand.
Gabe happily shook the hand, shooting a thrilled smile towards his daddy. He thought it was wicked cool when he got to do grown-up stuff like shake hands. Mr. Malfoy earned another few awesome points, in his book.
"Draco," Harry breathed. Relief and pleasure evident in his voice. "No—no problem, come on in." Harry backed up to allow Draco entry and Gabe immediately lead him to the front parlor by the hand he still held. He grinned and shook his head as he closed the door and followed after them. As he entered the parlor, he was pleasantly surprised to see Gabe sitting on Draco's lap, a big smile on his small face and several small boxes scattered around him.
Harry cleared his throat, getting Draco's attention first. "Presents?" He tried not to frown, but he must not have succeeded because Draco's cheeks lightly pinked as he looked away and coughed lightly into a fist. He fought the urge to give an indulgent smile at the flustered blonde.
"Yes. It's not proper to come without a gift," Draco informed them. "There is one for everyone. Oh, and some wine." He reached behind him and handed Harry a bottle of wine. "It's a Shiraz, I didn't know what kind to bring since I didn't know what was on the menu."
Harry smiled to himself, pleased Draco had remembered his favorite kind of wine. He felt like a real sap. "Thank you, Draco. Gabe, did you thank Mister Malfoy for the gift?" He gave the small child a stern look, trying his best to ignore the happy grin on Gabe's little face as he held the wrapped present to his chest.
"Yes." Gabe was nodding while shaking and squeezing the package gently. "I did, daddy. Can I open it now?" he asked, giving his present another squeeze.
Harry pursed his lips in thought. "I don't know. Maybe we should wait until everyone is here and open them together?"
Gabe hopped off Draco's lap and ran over to hug Harry's legs, looking up with a pout. "But that'll be forever, daddy! Please please please can I open it now?"
Harry pointedly ignored the snicker he heard from Draco and tapped his chin in thought. "Hmm..." he stared off a few moments before he looked down at Gabe finally. He hated saying no, and he was quite sure Gabe was already aware of (and exploited) that fact. "Okay. But if you're a brat later when everyone else has theirs, it's early bedtime." He wagged a stern finger at the child and grinned when Gabe crowed with delight and ran back over to Draco to get his gift re-sized.
After Mr. Malfoy unshrunk it, Gabe tore into the paper. A delighted squeal greeted the blue, stuffed dragon. He hugged the toy to his chest and turned his big grey eyes on Draco. "Thank you!" he gushed and ran over to daddy to show off his toy. "Look, daddy! It's a dragon! And it's blue!" He lifted the toy up and down to make the wings flap, a huge smile on his face. He squeezed the toy to his chest again, tighter this time, and giggled when the dragon roared and belched enchanted smoke from its nostrils.
Harry smiled at the besotted look on Draco's face. He'd gotten a full blast of the Gabe Eyes and he was just as effected as anyone else in the child's life. Harry sat down next to Draco after Gabe had run off to his room to play. "Thanks for that. You didn't have to get him anything."
"I'm glad he likes it," Draco said and then shook his head softly. "And I did. Have to, I mean. I've missed... well, I've got some making up to do."
Harry firmly shook his head. "No. You don't. He doesn't need toys and presents. It's enough that you've met him." He slowly leaned forward and tentatively reached out and took Draco's hand. He breathed a quiet sigh of relief when Draco made no move to take his hand out of his. He let his thumb caress Draco's palm a moment before he spoke again. "He doesn't want for anything, though. It's nearly criminal how spoiled both of them are."
"I see what you're saying, Harry. I do. But I have no idea how else to make it up to him," Draco said uncomfortably as he looked at Harry, his grey eyes sad. In his experience you bought children things to show you cared. He had only come to realize later in life how… detached the gesture was, but he didn't know what else to do. "Or you. I just don't know what to do with a child. I-I don't want to be like my father," he whispered, making Harry squeeze his hand in silent comfort.
"Draco," Harry started softly, "I never thought you were like your father. I personally think that's why he was so disappointed in you, as you've pointed out so many times." He raised a hand when Draco opened his mouth to protest, a small frown on his face. "I mean that in the best way possible. You're warm and caring. I've seen it, even if you didn't want to show it," he finished quietly. "I don't think you realize how expressive your eyes are, either." He smiled as Draco looked up, surprise warming his grey eyes. "See? Like right now." He gently cupped Draco's cheek, his thumb tracing along a cheekbone. "Warm, like molten silver," he murmured, lost in the mercurial depths.
Draco leaned forward, his lips about to connect with Harry's when Gabe pounded down the stairs and ran down the hallway, into the kitchen, waving his dragon as he went. He smiled. "Such an exuberant child," he murmured, his head turning to follow the sound as Gabe moved around. A loud roar was heard as Gabe ran back up the stairs, shutting his door behind him louder than Harry liked.
Harry nodded with a smile before continuing what Draco started, planting a quick, yet heated, kiss to the stunned blonde's lips. He ignored the surprise; he was just as surprised as Draco, honestly. He didn't regret the kiss, though. "That he is. Speaking of exuberance, we've got to pick up Teddy in about ten minutes. Do you want to come? It's not a long walk," he asked, biting his lower lip.
Draco nodded. "Alright. I certainly don't see a point in my sitting here alone waiting for you." He grinned when Harry blushed.
"I didn't think of that. Sorry Draco, I should have—"
Draco cut him off, a finger on his lips. "Really, it's fine. I could use a walk." He smiled, thoroughly enjoying the dopey smile Harry gave back. He wasn't sure when it got so easy to be open with Harry, but he couldn't regret it when Harry looked at him like that.
Harry turned his head, cupped a hand around his mouth and yelled up the stairs to Gabe, startling the blonde. "Gabe! Shoes! Time to get Teddy!" He hear Gabe yell "OK!" back from somewhere in the house. Then quick, running footsteps down the stairs into the hall. Lastly, the sound of digging in the closet for his shoes. This month he was firmly attached to his Wellingtons that featured characters from the muggle cartoon movie Cars. He had to admit the boots were cute and he enjoyed the fact Gabe could put them on by himself. Usually. He turned back to Draco and grinned at the blonde's still startled expression. "Sorry, we, er, aren't... well, stuffy." His grin widened. "I'm sure you're horrified that we're yelling across the house."
Draco tried to deny it but couldn't and just nodded sheepishly. "I remember being thoroughly chastised for such an atrocity when I was younger. I can't say I'm against it though, seems easier than waiting around for elves to deliver messages." His face grew serious a moment. "I wouldn't think of trying to change how you are with him. Just so you know."
Harry nodded mutely, unsure how to respond and gave Draco's hand another squeeze before he got up. "We should get going. Teddy starts to head home alone if I don't meet him." He shook his head, truly lamenting Teddy's independent phase ('I can do it myself!' was heard so many times, he wanted to hex something) and made his way to the hallway.
Draco could hear Harry talking to Gabe, something about his shoes being on the wrong feet, as he stood and arranged the other packages in a small pile for later. He quickly wiped his sweaty hands on his trousers and followed the voices to the front door.
Gabe looked up from his shoes, his small tongue poking out of the corner in concentration. "Mister Malfoy! You're coming too?" Draco nodded. "Yes!" He pumped a small fist in the air before giving Draco a stern look. "But you have to hold daddy's hand when we cross the street," he said as he nodded with the authority only a four-year-old possessed, sure Draco would agree. Draco chuckled and nodded. He grinned and grabbed daddy's hand before opening the front door. "Daddy, let's go-o-o-o," he whined, pulling on daddy and making him laugh.
"OK, munchkin. Give me a moment, need to lock up," Harry chuckled.
Draco watched as Harry turned a small metal object in a hole in the door before absently waving his hand, his brows pinched together a moment in concentration. He wasn't sure why Harry was using a Muggle lock as well as wards (he felt them twang gently a moment later). He only raised a brow at Harry, who blushed and shrugged, as he tried to ignore the prickle of desire he felt at Harry's blasé use of wand-less magic. He quickly fell in step next to Harry as they made their way down the street towards Teddy's school.
Gabe quickly filled the silence with the usual babble of an almost-four-year-old. Draco could only smile and wonder at the way the child spoke. He hadn't met many children, but he got the impression that Gabe was quite articulate for his age.
Quietly, so as not to interrupt Gabe's nearly one sided conversation, Draco murmured close to Harry's ear, "He speaks quite well. Is that... normal?"
Harry shivered lightly, the warm gust of Draco's breath teasing his ear. "I don't really know, hard to judge since both boys are so smart. But probably not," he said with a casual shrug. "He's around Hermione quite a bit, who treats him like he's thirty most of the time," he chuckled, smiling when Draco did as well. "He's been talking since he was a little over year old and like this," he waved a hand towards the still chattering Gabe, "about six months or so. He can already read some of the books Teddy brings home from school."
Draco could easily hear the pride and love in Harry's tone and couldn't help the twinge of regret he felt. He'd missed out on that. He pushed the thoughts away and nodded along.
"And, to be blunt, his parents are both incredibly intelligent so it's no real surprise," Harry added with a smug grin, laughing when Draco just nodded again, a smug smile on his face as well. Modesty was never a quality associated with Draco Malfoy.
Harry stopped at a corner and Gabe was quick to remind Draco to hold his hand. "Mister Malfoy! We're crossing now, so hold daddy's hand, OK?"
Draco contemplated telling him adults didn't have to hold hands to cross the street but nearly took the opportunity to hold hands with Harry. He looked at Harry, who smiled slightly as if reading his thoughts.
"It's OK, Gabe. Adults don't have to hold hands to cross the street. Draco is safe if he looks both ways," Harry said, hoping Draco had been around Muggle cars by now and aware of the dangers of walking out in front of them.
Gabe looked around daddy to Mr. Malfoy. "Oh, OK. I can't wait until I'm a grown up!" He looked up at daddy, his grey eyes wide. "Er. I like holding your hand daddy, but I can't wait until I can do stuff all by myself. Oh! Look! It's the little man! We can cross now!" He carefully looked both ways, along with daddy and Mr. Malfoy, before crossing.
A few minutes had them approaching the school. Gabe was practically bouncing on his toes as he looked around the packed school yard for Teddy. Usually Teddy kept his hair black like him and daddy, and only let it change colors at home. He finally spotted him and pointed him out to daddy. "There's Teddy, daddy!" He raised his hand and waved it wildly, yelling 'Teddy!' repeatedly, while he bouncing around on the other end of daddy's hand.
Harry couldn't help but laugh as Teddy looked around a moment before his green eyes found him, Gabe and Draco. He watched Teddy run over, his lunch box clutched in one hand and some large paper in the other.
"Dad! Gabe!" Teddy ran over, somehow avoiding tripping on his flopping shoelace.
Harry let go of Gabe's hand so the boys could do their thing, crossing his arms as he stood and watched with a small smile.
Teddy reached Gabe, dropped his paper and lunchbox and grabbed the smaller boy under his arms. A delighted giggle was heard as he twirled Gabe around before swooping him down so his head was in the crook of his elbow and rubbing his knuckles on top of Gabe's dark head, messing the dark locks further. He took Gabe's hand, retrieved his things and walked over to where his dad and a tall, blonde stranger stood. He smiled at his dad and handed him his paper (which appeared to be an art project Harry was already picking a frame for in his mind) and lunchbox before turning around. Harry squatted down and unzipped the backpack he wore and stuffed the items inside.
Teddy whirled around and practically pounced on the blonde man practically hiding behind his dad. "Dad! Who's this?" he asked, grabbing the man's hand and shaking it, twice, rapidly. He knew that was you did in a manly, grown-up greeting. He shook it twice more before Gabe was bouncing next to him, chattering away.
"This is Mister Malfoy, Teddy! He's daddy's friend," Gabe pitched his voice low and whispered something in Teddy's ear, making him giggle and had daddy narrowing his eyes at the boys. "He's even going to have dinner with us. And he gave me a blue dragon!"
Teddy smiled and ignored Gabe a moment. "Hi, Mister Malfoy," he said politely before turning to his dad with a grin. "Dad! Can we have a snack when we get home?"
Harry laughed, grabbed both boys' hands and headed for home. "Sure, Teddy. We'll see what we have when we get home."
Teddy made a delighted noise and gave his dad a sly look, "In front of the telly?"
"Hmm." Harry chuckled and shook his head. "We'll see."
He laughed when twin groans came from both boys. He tried not to be surprised when Gabe found a way to squirm between him and Draco and grabbed his hand, too. He didn't try to ignore the surprised yet happy look Draco gave him, though. Merlin, it didn't help his thundering pulse at all. The walk home was filled with the chatter of both boys as they walked home, leaving both adults lost in their own thoughts.
~*O*~
Harry left the boys in the parlor with Draco, all of them intently watching muggle cartoons on the television, and made his way into the kitchen to call Hermione. He took out his cell phone and tapped a few buttons and raised it to his ear, biting his lip. He wasn't sure what to say and swore aloud when he got her voice mail.
Shit.
"Hey, 'Mione. It's Harry. Er, listen about tonight... Draco sort of invited himself along and I couldn't say no. You and Arnold are still welcome, of course, and he promised to behave. So. Yeah, just a heads up I suppose. See you tonight. Right. Bye." He clicked the end arrow and cursed out loud before searching the cabinets for something to have as a small snack. Tonight was pizza night so the boys would have hearty appetites no matter what he found.
A tin of chocolate biscuits practically fell out of the cabinet. Biscuits and juice it would be. Grinning at the thought of Draco Malfoy sipping out of a juice-box, Harry piled the items on a tray and made his way out to the parlor. He snickered at the identical intent-yet-blank expressions all three wore and cleared his throat. "Snacks," he announced, lifting the tray slightly. Both boys snapped out of their television induced trances long enough to take a juice box and a few biscuits on a plate. Mumbled 'thank you's followed and they went back to watching the cartoon mouse thoroughly thrashing the poor cat.
Draco slowly turned his head to look at Harry. "Potter, this show is barbaric. How can you let children watch this?" His eyes nearly bugged out when the mouse appeared to cut off the cat's tail and then blow him up with a large firecracker. He scoffed when the cat remained, looking blackened and singed but otherwise unharmed. How unrealistic. He turned back to Harry and took a biscuit, absently nibbling on it. "I've never seen anything like this before."
"Hmm." Harry grinned. "It's only a cartoon, Draco. Make believe. Made for children. The boys know it's not real," he said and waved a hand at the television. "It's only one kind of show they watch. It's an old one, a classic. One of our favorites." He picked up a juice box and stuck the straw in it before handing it to Draco. The blonde took it absently, his eyes still on the cartoons. "It's apple," he commented, pointing to the juice.
"Hmm? Oh, alright. Fine." Draco took a sip, nearly causing Harry to unleash an unmanly giggle at the sight of his lips pursed around the tiny straw. He watched the next cartoon with amusement; the cat was now being chased by a large dog while he tormented the mouse. It quickly turned into a free-for-all of animated violence. "I wonder if this is why Muggles are so weird," he mused absently. He looked over to see Harry watching him, not the television. "Oddly entertaining though, I have to admit," he said quietly. He looked back at the screen and stifled a laugh when the dog chased the cat up a greased pole, only to have the cat slide back down and scramble madly back up from the barking dog in an amusing cycle that ended the cartoon.
He could see Harry grinning out of the corner of his eye. "Alright; very entertaining. How long do they watch this for?" he asked, trying to ignore the look Harry was giving him.
Harry checked his watch and made a thoughtful sound, "About an hour or so. I try not to let them watch too much telly." Teddy grumbled from his spot down the sofa, making him chuckle softly. "I'll have the boys play out in the garden for a bit, fresh air and all that." He said it lightly enough but his gaze was intense on Draco's.
Draco nearly gulped, his mind helpfully (or maybe not so helpfully) conjuring numerous images of what Harry wanted to do when they were alone. "Alright," he said and took another sip of juice, only then realizing he was drinking it from a child's juice box. He held it out and stared at it, barely restraining the urge to smack Harry. As it was, he just gave the man a dark look and went back to enjoying the cartoons with the children.
After another hour or so of cartoons, Harry shut off the telly and shepherded the boys outside. As Gabe was leaving, he gaped quite stupidly when he heard him whisper to Teddy 'I bet they're gonna kiss' and they both ran out giggling. He barely restrained a childish urge to yell 'Nuh uh!' and cast a glance at Draco and noticed he was still in the parlor and hadn't heard. Not that he didn't want to kiss the blonde, oh but he did. Just not yet. He made his way back into the parlor, taking his seat next to Draco and nibbled on a biscuit.
"Alright, we're alone. Now what?" Draco turned, his eyes warm and expectant, to Harry. He lounged back on the sofa, his right ankle perched on his left knee; the picture of casual elegance, if you ignored the white-knuckled grip on the sofa arm.
Harry put his biscuit down and cleared his throat. "Well, I just wanted to talk. I'm— I don't think I'm ready for anything else just yet." Draco nodded, whether to agree or accept he wasn't sure. He felt conflicted again; it wasn't like they had never gone past talking but things were rather different now and he was feeling confused and verging on uncomfortable. "I was wondering if you'd thought more after I left." His felt his fingers want to twitch and fidget so he folded them on his lap.
Draco hummed lowly and nodded. "I did, Harry. I spent a lot time thinking about your arse," he said, his lips curving up into a smirk before sobering slightly. "I also thought a lot about Gabe. And Teddy. And you. I really would like to spend more time with you. Get to know him. Them. Well, all of you. Hopefully slither my way into the little family you've managed," he said, fidgeting slightly and then immediately stilling. He smiled shakily, his heart pounding, waiting for Harry's reaction.
Merlin, how did Gryffindors walk around with their hearts exposed all the time? It was horrifying.
Harry couldn't help but smile, mentally reminding himself to thank Hermione about the jeans, and take Draco's hand in his again. "That's— I can't tell you how amazing it is to hear that. I feel I have to remind you about Arnold and Hermione. And Neville, but he won't be by later. They're my family, too. I don't want to sound like a broken record but I need you to be sure," he bit his lip nervously again. "I know there are no guarantees about anything but I don't want the boys hurt if..." he trailed off, unwilling to voice his fears. He could easily see how sincere Draco was but it was hard to not have doubts.
Draco's brows were furrowed. "A broken what?"
"Record," Harry said and quietly laughed. "Never mind. Muggle thing. Is that all you heard?" he asked, trying to hide his annoyance with a shake of his head.
Draco shook his head. "Of course not; that was all I was unsure about. Look, I already think they're both great kids. I can't wait to get to know them better, I'm just worried they'll get to know me better," he said quietly and looked away, shifting uncomfortably. "They seem to like me well enough, but who knows how long that will last?"
Harry smiled, understanding. "Both my boys are good at judging people. If they like you, they like you," he said and shrugged one shoulder. "Short of you ripping the heads off all their toys, not much can make them change their minds. I've honestly never seen either of them take so someone like they have with you," he admitted with a warm smile. "Just don't over-think it, act natural around them. So far, you've done wonderfully."
"Hmm." Draco released a breath he wasn't aware he was holding. "Now I know the Malfoy charm works on even the smallest of Potter men," he drawled. He smirked causing Harry to lightly punch his arm with a muttered 'Prat'.
Later, Draco nervously waited in the kitchen while Harry greeted Hermione and Arnold as they came by the floo. He smiled when he heard the excited voices greeting each other, boisterous kisses on cheeks and breath stealing hugs. He couldn't help the worm of envy that squirmed through his chest; he wanted that with Harry. He wanted to stand in front of the floo, arm around Harry, as they greets their guests. He ran out of time to brood when he heard voices quickly heading towards the kitchen. The door swung open, Gabe the first one in the kitchen.
"Aunt Hermione! Uncle Arnold! This is Mister Malfoy. Daddy's friend. We had ice cream yesterday and he got me a dragon!" Gabe chattered on as everyone filed into the kitchen and stood around, Harry perching comfortably against the counter close to Draco.
Teddy's eyes got wide on the last part and looked at his dad, his bottom lip poking out slightly in a pout. "You guys had ice cream without me? No fair! I bet it was chocolate too," he grumbled.
Harry rolled his eyes. "Shut it, munchkin. It's not like you never get ice cream. Now hush you two," he said with a chuckle at the boys. "Arnold Stiller, Draco Malfoy. Draco Malfoy, Arnold Stiller." He paused, allowing the men to shake hands and murmur 'nice to meet you's at each other. "Hermione," he said with a grin, "Draco Malfoy." She mock curtsied and gave Draco her hand and he immediately kissed it with a dramatic flourish.
"Hermione, you're looking ravishing this evening. How kind of you to allow me to join you in your evening repast," Draco said with a cheeky grin. And nearly laughed at Arnold's shocked face. "No worries there, Arnold. Hermione is lovely but not my type," he said as his eyes darted to Harry but he didn't further elaborate on 'his type'. "We all went to school together and it's been awhile since we've seen each other." He paused, unsure what Arnold had been told and waited for angry words or rejection. He relaxed when Arnold only nodded politely before his smitten gaze landed on Hermione once again.
Hermione burst out laughing, her hand still in Draco's. "Oh Merlin, no wonder..." she trailed off, eyes darting to the kids. "No wonder Harry invited you," she finished and smiled warmly at him. "It is nice to have you here." She winked at Draco's incredulous face. "Hey, if you can be mature so can I," she said quietly, shrugging one shoulder. "I hope you like pizza," she said, looking up at him.
Draco could only blink and shoot a blank look at Harry.
"Oh wow, you've never had pizza, Draco?" Harry asked, shocked.
Teddy and Gabe both gasped exaggeratedly and even Arnold chuckled as Draco shook his head. "No, but I'll try anything once." The boys started listing toppings and Draco was lost again. "I'll try whatever kind you usually get," he said with a chuckle, holding his hands up in a bid to stop the rapid fire list the boys were still rattling off. He nearly winced when he heard Pineapple. What sort of food allowed pineapples and cheese to co-exist? He didn't even want to know where (or from what) a 'pepperoni' came from.
Harry chuckled and took his phone out of his pocket. "It'll take about a half hour or so, so everyone should go relax in the parlor."
Draco watched as Harry tapped his finger on the glowing flat device before lifting it to his ear and speaking into it. He didn't know what pepperoni was but he could only hope it was edible when he heard that as part of the order. Harry made a 'shooing' motion at him, biding him to follow everyone to the parlor so he reluctantly pushed open the door and joined Gabe and Teddy on the sofa. They had managed to get one of the adults to put the telly back on and they were happily watching a different cartoon. A brightly colored fish was swimming around singing. He raised an eyebrow at Hermione.
"One of their favorite movies," Hermione said with another one shouldered shrug. "Well, Gabe says you brought presents for everyone." She smiled and looked at the small pile sitting on a nearby table.
Teddy's attention was immediately drawn from the telly to the adults. "Presents?" he asked, perking up. He visibly restrained himself and calmly asked, "For everyone, Mister Malfoy?" he smiled at the blonde man, hoping he had heard right.
Draco nodded, and retrieved the one he had brought for Teddy. He flicked his wand at it to re-size it and handed it over to Teddy.
Gabe leaned over and gloated in a sing-song voice "I gotta dragon!" before turning back to the television.
Teddy shoved his annoying little brother away lightly before carefully tearing into his gift. "Oh wow! Thanks Mister Malfoy! Aunt Hermione, uncle Arnold, look!" he gushed as he held the box up for inspection. "It's a junior wizards chess set!" He carefully opened the box to inspect the pieces, quickly inspecting each piece and deeming them 'awesome' or 'wicked' before moving on to the next one.
Gabe looked over again and said a quick "Neat, Teddy!" before getting lost in cartoon sharks. His dragon was so much better than a chess set. He eyed the box and wondered if Teddy would teach him, though. It did look fun. Sorta.
Draco smiled, pleased Teddy liked his gift. He had been at a loss as to what to get the child and breathed a quiet sigh of relief he had managed to choose right. He watched, a curiously warm, fuzzy feeling going through him, as Teddy inspected the pieces and told Gabe what they were whenever the younger boy asked. He offered proper names occasionally when Teddy seemed unsure or made up his own.
Hermione smiled at him (probably catching the sappy look but thankfully not mentioning it) and patted his knee twice before leaning back and opening the box he had brought for her and Arnold. He grinned when she gasped. "I can only apologize if Arnold isn't as enamored of books as you are. I found a spare copy in the main Malfoy Library," he pointed to the thick tome, "I thought you'd enjoy it."
"I do." Hermione beamed at Draco and shared a quick look with Arnold, "We don't share the same taste in books." She carefully put the book aside before wrapping an arm around Arnold's waist before looking back to Draco wither another warm smile. "Thank you, Draco."
Harry came back in at that point, a tray full of filled glasses floating behind him. Draco's eyes darted to Arnold, who looked slightly amazed but not shocked at the magic. Harry grinned and handed them each a glass. "I figured, what's pizza without soda?" Giving each boy a cup, he quickly spelled them not to spill and gave and exasperated huff when both promptly turned their cups upside down to test them. Why did he even bother?
Draco took a small sip and lifted the glass up to stare at the beverage. "Merlin, that's fantastic!" he exclaimed and quickly took a few more, larger sips. "Never heard of soga," he absently said to himself, turning the glass around and watching the liquid fizz and bubble. He could only wonder what made it bubble, knowing it was Muggle and therefore couldn't possible contain any ingredients he knew to cause the effect.
"Soda," Harry softly correctly with a small smile and settled himself on the arm of the sofa next to Draco and patted his knee, his hand lingering a moment. "It's a Muggle thing, so I'm not surprised you've never had it. I thought you'd like it, what with the amount of sugar you dump in your tea." He showed Draco the bottle. "This kind is just plain cola. There are dozens of different flavors. We'll have to try them all," he said and smiled when Draco nodded enthusiastically.
Shortly after Draco finished his second glass of soda, there was a knock on the front door to the delighted whoops from the boys. Harry pointed a finger at both in a silent 'stay put' gesture and disappeared to answer the door. Moments later, he returned carrying three flat cardboard boxes.
As he enlarged the table to fit them all, Draco sniffed and hummed happily.
Pizza smelled wonderful.
Harry opened the boxes while Hermione got some plates. Soon, they were all eating pizza and chatting happily as the cartoon fish finished their adventure largely ignored.
~*O*~
Harry eased the door to Gabe's room closed, shaking his head with a smile on his face. Gabe spent over 5 minutes telling Harry how great Draco was and that he should come over for cartoons and pizza tomorrow night too. Harry couldn't help the warmth he felt at Gabe's acceptance and obvious liking of Draco. Making his way back downstairs, he was cornered in the darkened hallway. Draco's scent hit him before he could panic. As his eyes adjusted, he could make out Draco's pale skin and hair looming over him. Their chests were pressed close together and he found it hard to breath.
Draco leaned in closer, his lips ghosting over Harry's. "Boys in bed?" he whispered.
"Yes," Harry nodded, trying not to whimper or pant. Fuck, it had been so long. "Both of them wouldn't shut up about wonderful Mister Malfoy," he said lowly. His breath hitched when Draco pressed even closer, their hips lightly making contact. Draco slid a knee between his legs. He moaned softly when he felt Draco's growing erection press into his thigh. "Merlin," he breathed. He should probably put a stop to anything further happening but he just felt too warm and tingled too pleasantly to put much effort in it.
Draco chuckled, his mouth trailing feather light kisses along Harry's jaw. "No. Draco," he corrected, practically purring. His lips pressing harder and his tongue lightly dragged across the skin under Harry's ear, causing the other man to buck his hips slightly and a breathy little moan to leave Harry's lips. He groaned softly at the increased pressure and delicious noise. It was hard to think clearly with Harry pressing against him but somewhere deep in his mind he knew they shouldn't be moving so fast. Oh, but fuck did it feel good.
It had always felt good, so good.
"Fuck, yes. Draco," Harry breathed in agreement. His hands slid up and down Draco's back, caressing and mapping the glorious hard planes of his body. His hand itched to pull the carefully tucked shirt loose and slide his hands along smooth, warm skin. Instead, he slid both hands around to gently press against Draco's chest, reveling in the feeling of the hard muscles under his palms for a moment before gently pushing the blonde away.
He pressed a soft kiss on Draco's lips. "Not the best time, Draco," he said regretfully. He leaned forward and pressed another quick, hard, kiss to the blonde's lips. "We will continue this, just not right now, yeah?"
Draco stepped back with a smirk, his voice low and husky. "Of course we will, Harry," he murmured. He groaned softly and wanted to bury his face in the warm, golden column of skin when he saw Harry's eyes dilate and his lips part. He would wait, take whatever Harry gave him. "Dinner, tomorrow?"
"Oh yeah," Harry nodded and slid a hand down Draco's chest and stomach, stopping at his soft leather belt. He swallowed thickly and nodded again. "Pick me up?"
Draco nodded. "Of course." He sunk his hands in Harry's dark hair a moment, relishing the feel of the softness under his fingers once more before stepping back and after a subtle readjustment to his trousers, walked back into the parlor. He couldn't resist shooting Harry a cheeky wink over his shoulder before disappearing through the doorway. He wondered how long Harry would linger; either in an effort to calm down or to make it look they hadn't been having a quick feel up in the hallway.
Harry followed a few moments later, taking a moment to catch his breath, and offered Arnold and Hermione something harder than soda. He poured small tumblers of Firewhiskey for everyone. Arnold took a small sip and whistled, holding his glass up and looking at it appreciatively. "Woah, I still can't get used to this stuff," he grinned, smoke puffing out as he spoke. "So wicked." He grinned and took another small sip.
The conversation flowed freely, surprising Draco at how comfortable and welcome he felt. He sat back with a small smile, hoping this wasn't a one-time occurrence, enjoying sitting close to Harry and reveling in the solid warmth pressing along his side . He spoke up when addressed, talking openly when not, and found himself learning more about Muggle chemists that he ever thought he would've. He was impressed to realize they were like a healer and a potions master combined. Impressive.
Soon enough, Hermione and Arnold were saying their goodbyes and made their way to the floo.
Hermione practically cornered Draco, her hand resting on his arm. "Draco," she didn't even pause to make sure it was alright if she called him Draco anymore. He had slipped earlier and called her Hermione (even if he had tried to blame the Firewhiskey) and she had been calling him Draco the rest of the evening, a smug (but warm and friendly, somehow, at the same time) smile on her face when she did.
"I don't know what your intentions are—" She held up a hand to stop him when he opened his mouth. "And I don't want to know. That's between you, Harry and the boys. Just know he's always been serious and if you hurt him deliberately, no one will find what's left of you." She smiled sweetly, kissed his cheek and stepped through the floo before he could respond.
Draco was left to gape at the now empty floo. Damn Gryffindors; not that he expected anything less. He smiled and sat back on the sofa, waiting for Harry to finish in the kitchen. After a few moments, Draco debated with himself whether or not he should go help him, not that he had any clue what one did in there. Just as he was about get up, Harry returned with a smile. He had rolled the sleeves of his button up shirt nearly to his elbows and untucked the light green material from his Muggle jeans. Draco had to swallow a few times, his mouth dry suddenly, but he managed a smile and patted the cushion next to him.
Harry practically ran over and flopped onto the seat beside the blonde. He turned his body a bit, their knees brushing lightly. "It's getting late, Draco," he moved closer, his hand resting on Draco's knee. "I'm not kicking you out, but I'd hate to keep you up." He looked down as his hand slid higher up the blonde's thigh, his fingers grazing along the seam of his trousers resting over the sensitive inner thigh.
"It is late." Draco shivered lightly, shifting closer. "I should get going," he breathed, leaning closer to Harry. "I just need—" he broke off, crushing his lips onto Harry's. One hand covered Harry's on his thigh and the other slid around the back of Harry's neck to gently but firmly hold the man in place. His fingers lightly played with the fine hairs there, causing Harry to shiver with pleasure. His lips moved softly over Harry's relishing the familiar, and sorely missed, feel.
Harry sighed softly, allowing Draco to slide his tongue in. He delighted in the soft moan and Harry's tongue sliding along his. His hand slid further up Draco's thigh, boldly cupping the heavy growing bulge through Draco's trousers. So much for pacing himself...
"Harry," Draco murmured, leaning back slightly with a moan and nipping at Harry's bottom lip. "I need—" he broke off again when he felt Harry's fingers move to unbutton his trousers, not even bothering with the belt. Harry's hand wormed in the opening, deftly sliding along Draco's erect length with familiar determination. "Fuck, Harry," he moaned when he felt warm fingers wrapping around and caressing him. His head flopped forward onto Harry's shoulder, a shudder going through his body as Harry's thumb swept over the head, smearing pre-come around and lubricating his movements that much more.
Gentle pressure, smooth gliding movements, a slight twist of his wrist had Draco moaning shamelessly into Harry's shoulder and neck. His lips attacked Harry's skin, wherever he could reach, giving sharp nips and soothing licks as he panted. He was almost embarrassed how quickly he felt heat pooling, the tell-tale sighs he wasn't going to be lasting much longer. "Oh fuck, Harry, yes. I—!" he choked out as he came, coating Harry's hand. He slide bonelessly down Harry's body, his cheek resting against Harry's chest. "Merlin," he panted, trying to uncurl his toes from the orgasm. He couldn't remember coming so hard (or fast) just from a hand job in quite some time.
Harry chuckled softly, rumbling against Draco's cheek. "No. Harry," he corrected with a laugh when Draco groaned. He cast a wordless cleaning charm on them, leaning forward and softly kissing Draco. He chuckled again as Draco grumbled 'smart arse' into his chest. His arms were wrapped tightly around the blonde, frozen with indecision. One word from the man and he would drag him upstairs, consequences be damned. He silently prayed his self control wouldn't be tested that far. He had the boys to think about. Draco only came waltzing back into his life just yesterday; he really couldn't ignore the risk of him waltzing out just as fast.
"I can hear you thinking, Harry," Draco mumbled against the warm, firm chest he was still pressed again. The hands he had wrapped around Harry's waist moved up, massaging and kneading along back and shoulder muscles. Soothing and comforting. He leaned up as he worked his hands up Harry's back. "We're still going on a date tomorrow and I won't think you're easy if you let me in your pants. Tomorrow," he said with a smirk, tightening his hands briefly.
Harry and had to laugh. "Okay, fair enough." He slowly released his hold on Draco, his hands sliding a lingering trail along his ribs and stomach. He leaned down and placed another soft kiss on his lips as he gently tucked Draco back into his trousers before pulling way. "See you at seven then," he said and smiled at Draco's dazed look.
Draco shook his head lightly, trying to clear it, stealing another kiss before he did his trousers up and stood. "Alright. Yes. At seven. Perfect," he said, babbling slightly. He cleared his throat at his excessive words. "I can Apparate from here, right?" When Harry nodded, he winked and left with a soft crack.
Harry leaned back against the sofa with a sigh and a smile nearly splitting his face in two. Tomorrow, at 7. He couldn't wait.