4. The Art of Seduction by Lucius Malfoy.
The way young Malfoy behaved at breakfast really pissed off Severus, he wanted to spank that little brat, but he could not. Thus he settled for a solid scolding. But that cheeky boy instead of listening to him kept looking, not even trying to be discreet at the clock, which was showing - "Time to go to Hogsmeade."
Severus did not let him go until it changed into "You're late." Then finally he took pity on the boy and ordering him to behave quietly and discreetly, let him go after the group, or even better run.
If he can not show him respect and express remorse, not even false - let him run. Cheeky bastard.
Formally, as Head of Slytherin House he should be one of the guardians at all trips, but this time the principal ordered him to stay in the castle because the hospital wing needed a stock of many important potions, including postcrutiatus he himself needed as well as Potter, after the visions Voldemort sent him.
Yeah, right! Just the thought of Potter made him snort angrily. Another cheeky bastard.
How he hated children and adolescents. With a particular focus on those two who did not have an ounce of respect for him, nor the decency to at least try and pretend.
Fortunately he had all the potions the healer needed ready in his private storeroom, so he just prepared all the bottles and jars to get them to Pomfrey and used his free time to hide in his office, where he sat in his favorite chair with "The Unknown History of Well Known Potions" and a cup of his favorite black tea with whiskey.
Who supposedly said that tea has to be with rum? Besides, dungeons were cold and humid, even in spite of all spells. (because they had to be regularly repeated, and Severus just too often forgot about it).
Reading the book he forgot about the whole world, until the moment when Dumbledore showed up in his living room, using a fire place. The old man was so troubled that he stumbled and nearly fell, probably for the first time in his life. Severus sent a book and a cup away and left his office pretending he had run from the laboratory distracted from hard work.
- Albus, what happened? - He quickly came to the old man and held him by the elbow helping him clean the robes.
Dumbledore completely ignored his own condition and his efforts. He squeezed his hands together and almost wept.
- Severus, He kidnapped Potter, again.
Professor was so deep in thought about his book that he forgot about the whole action and the planned kidnapping, so he easily played surprise. Dumbledore grabbed his hands.
- You need to find out what happened to Harry and where he is kept, as soon as possible. We can not just leave him in the hands of a madman. We have no idea how he managed to escape the last time. This time, he may not return.
Severus gently but firmly freed his hands and quickly stepped back. He turned the principal toward the fireplace, patting him on the back.
- You'd better go back to your office Albus, there might be a new information. You know that I can not go alone to Dark Castle, unless the Dark Lord calls me. - And it won't happen soon. I am sure he is busy. He winced inwardly, making a very worried face on the outside.
- If any of my friends contact me, then I will try to find out something and immediately pass information to you. - Dumbledore looked like he wanted to linger still, so he quickly cut off the conversation. - There is nothing we can do for now. Worrying certainly will not help. And none of my friends can show up in my fireplace when you're here, Albus.
The old man nodded, acknowledging that he was right, and with another worried glance he finally disappeared, throwing hiis last line.
- We have to recover Harry, Severus. - He shook his head. - My poor boy.
When he was finally gone, Severus rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath.
Merlin Merciless, how he hated that brat. The whole world circled around Potter, Light and Dark.
He returned to his office and summoned back his book and a cup of tea, quickly warming it and returned to the interrupted reading. Surely someone will contact him soon, he would bet on Malfoy.
It is true, that this time he was not warned about the attack, but after it he will certainly be informed. He wondered how did it go this time?
He sipped his tea and sat back, enjoying free time.
As Severus predicted a few hours later Lucius Malfoy sent him the owl inviting him to his Manor. He sent the same owl with the message to the Principal and disappeared in the fireplace, before the old man could answer him.
When he appeared in the living room Lucius was waiting for him sitting in one of the upholstered chairs, from the times of the first wizards - they knew about the comfort, those days. His hand pointed at the chair next to him as he summoned a bottle of french wine. Severus didn't like such liquors, but he decided that might be better not to drink anything stronger, he could get carried away and blurt out his new secret.
He leaned back in a historic piece of furniture and raised his glass. Lucius let him take the sip, and raised an eyebrow expecting praise. Severus met his expectations praising, for him too bland and too weak alcohol. Then Lucius finally started the conversation.
- You know about Potter being kidnapped, right, Severus? - He nodded. - The Dark Lord did not tell you about it so you wouldn't have a problem, hiding this from Dumbledore. - Severus did not have the slightest problem with that, but he nodded, accepting the argument.
Lucius took a bigger sip from his glass and started with what really interested him.
- I was appointed to do that together with Bella. - He waved his hand. - Actually, I had to do it myself, because when Potter screamed this loser immediately fainted. - Snape laughed maliciously, he did not like a witch, and everyone would say that sending Malfoy with her was really good move. Still, he couldn't sense what Malfoy wanted to tell him or ask for - his blond friend clearly nervously glanced at him turning the glass in his fingers.
Finally he blurted out.
- When Harry appeared in Hogsmeade Draco ran after him asking him to stop, and Potter said ... - Malfoy stopped and swallowed, apparently the issue was really awkward. Severus could not wait. What did those brats think up this time? Lucius braced himself. - Potter said that he is not interested, and if Draco wants a boyfriend he should start looking in Slytherin. - He looked quizzically. - Is it true, Severus? Is Draco chasing after Potter?
Severus rubbed his hands together. The perfect opportunity to repay little stinker for upsetting him and putting their plans (and lives) in danger. He shook his head and described in details what happened at breakfast, focusing on Draco's yearning glances, sighing and giggles and describing amusement and jokes made by Potter and his buddies.
Malfoy just nodded and tsked.
- Just as I thought, Draco has no idea HOW TO FIND A BOYFRIEND. - He straightened up and with a new verve continued. - But I will help him. Such a relationship would be really good for his future. Potter is a good catch. Rich, famous ...
Before Lucius could go too far, Severus interrupted.
- ...Enemy of the Dark Lord, that you delivered today to his hands. - He looked at his friend shaking his head doubtfully. - Are you sure that Draco would still have a chance to get him?
Lucius waved his hand reassuringly.
- The Lord will not do him any harm. I watched them talk today, quite calmly and seriously, without any curses. I think that the Dark Lord wants to resolve the issues between them without violence. - Severus choked on his wine. His friend thought it was a shock because Voldemort did not curse Potter and does not want to kill him. Quickly he told Severus his conjectures. - With Dumbeldore you can not talk normally, but Potter is just a kid, he can be convinced. And Dark Lord is the master of persuasion.
This time Snape did not choke, but he was alarmed, Lucius is not as naive as he looks, he can discover the secret about the Greatest Romance of All Time.
Fortunately, at that moment he was more worried about his son and his chances with Potter.
- I have to try to help Draco - when Harry goes to our side, Draco as his boyfriend will strengthen the position of our family.
Or rather ensure a place in the dungeons, the Dark Lord does not tolerate competition. Severus thought. But on the other hand, Malfoy's only effective technique for seduction was bragging of his wealth, and this tactic is certainly not going to work on Potter. He had had enough of his own galleons and he had a real lover. So he decided to let the Malfoys go on with their plans.
- This can not be, Severus, I'm going to start immediately teaching Draco some subtler methods of seduction. - Lucius stood up, put down his glass and started walking towards the door, where he looked back at his friend. Severus also put down his unfinished wine and followed him. - Come with me, Severus, I know you're not gay and you know nothing about it, but you can help me talking to Draco. Besides, you never know whether such knowledge will not be useful to you too.
Severus, who happened to be gay and had no problems finding a partner, did not think that he could learn anything from him, however, he thought that it is definitely worth seeing. With a serious expression he assured:
- I do not think I would have a chance to benefit from your advice, but it is always worth learning something new.
Lucius had no doubt that Severus never needed such skills, but you never know what will happen in the future. He opened the door of the exercise room and finished his thought.
- Do not be so sure, Severus. I know that you are not interested in men. However, you may need something from one and seduction could be the only way to do it.
Severus once again solemnly nodded, sitting down next to Draco, who was waiting for them in there. The boy knew perfectly well about his tastes in men and listening to his father he (again not discreetly) choked with laughter. Severus kept a stone face but also laughed (to himself), unlike him Draco preferred girls, and avoided Potter like the plague, soon there will be no laugh for him.
Lucius looked at his son very seriously.
- I asked you to come home Draco, because we need to have a serious talk. The professor told me about what happened at today's breakfast. - Draco looked up anxiously. Snape definitely had reported his father that he almost destroyed their plan and now he'll be punished. The reality, however, turned out to be worse than his fears when his father continued.
- Anyway, I myself have heard your conversation with Potter in Hogsmeade. I am really disappointed in you, son. You know that you can always trust me and I'll help you with everything. - Draco was slightly confused. He looked at Snape questioningly. He certainly knew what was going on. However, the man only shook his head: "Wait, till father tells you." - I know you love Potter, Draco and I'll help you get him.
Draco, who never would have expected this, froze with his mouth open so he could not immediately protest. His father walked over and patted him reassuringly on the shoulder. - I know that you could be afraid to admit it, because Potter has always been the enemy of our side, but I understand, my son. Can't fight with your heart desires. I have nothing against your feelings, you can count on me.
Draco finally woke up from the shock.
- What love? For Potter?! I have a girlfriend father, I feel nothing for that ... - With the excitement he could not even come up with proper insult. - His father just shook his head and Draco was really pissed off. Also at Snape. He knew very well that if it was not for him his father would never think of such foolishness.
He turned towards the older wizard. - What did you tell him, you...? - He saw his father frown and remembered about the respect for elders. - Professor! - He finished. - You know how I hate that damn Potter. I never looked at him with anything but contempt. What is your problem?
Snape did not even held back a malicious smile. He put an arm around Draco's shoulder.
- But you do not have to pretend my boy. The entire Hogwarts had seen how you stared at him all breakfast and heard your conversation. Your Father would find out anyway. You can now tell the truth about your feelings. Your father does not mind and wants to help you get your chosen one.
Draco lost his breath. This old Slytherin bastard! It's definitely revenge for the fact that he did not want to listen to him. He turned to his father to continue his protests, but he was cut short.
- Do not say anything more, son, I know what I saw. You love Potter and he will be yours.
Draco went limp. The tone suggested that no protests would help. His Father knew better and he will not back down. Once again, he glared at the professor.
He's gonna repay him for it, even if he ends up scrubbing toilets on detentions until the end of the year.
Malfoy senior, after a short theory - best way to attract attention and get guy's interest is skillful complimenting - got to the practical part.
- Severus, - he began in softer and lower voice. - I've never noticed that you have such beautiful eyes, they sparkle like stars, and your hair falls like a glistening waves. - Malfoy blinked seductively staring into his eyes.
Severus tried to blink too, but he pressed eye lashes too strongly and they stuck together, after a while he pulled them open with his fingers and shook his head, throwing his hair. Unfortunately, a lacewing fly flying by did not foresee the maneuver and got stuck to greasy locks.
Severus never lost the opportunity to get ingredients for potions, immediately he pulled a vial from his pocket, which was already half full with such victims, and quickly put a frozening spell on a fly so as not to destroy her wings and carefully took it and placed among those previously captured.
Malfoys have seen such actions before, so they were not surprised, but definitely it was not fit to illustrate Lucius' intentions. He cleared his throat, but before he could continue, Snape put the vial back in his robes and spoke.
- Why don't you no longer use general methods and instead focus on the real goal of these classes. - Lucius looked quizzically, so Severus refraining from turning his eyes, explained. - Potter. Harry Potter is the one you wish to seduce. I mean, you want your son to seduce him. Potter may have beautiful eyes, but they can't be seen behind his glasses and his hair does not fall in shiny waves but stick out in all directions.
- Right. - Lucius had to admit his friend was right, so he began to imagine Harry Potter in Severus' place. He had a pretty good imagination, so his concentrated expression soon changed into a dreamy and fascinated.
Draco stared at that in amazement and disbelief. His father fancied Harry Potter! That's why he so quickly believed in that idea. Merlin, save Malfoys. He looked with amazement and horror at the professor, who grinned in response. However, he took a pity of a shaken boy and clearing his throat he said normally, then louder.
- Lucius. Lucius! - His friend finally opened his eyes with slightly unconscious gaze. - Can you get back to your presentation? You started with some really interesting ideas. Do you have any other advice for younger people?
- Yes. - Malfoy got hold of himself and looked at his son. - I think the best are classic: flowers, poems, chocolates. That's how I won your mother's heart.
Draco's eyes widened. From what he knew Grandpa Malfoy has chosen from the lot of pureblood virgins the one which looks best suits the image of Malfoy and offered her father twice the amount of the highest bid so far. Besides, he knew that investment will pay off. Grandpa Black had only two daughters, so his wealth will be inherited by sons-in law.
Draco had hoped that his father in the future will also find him a good fiancée. He just did not expect that it would be This Bloody Potter!
Besides, despite the fact that he was not going to get Potter, his father will certainly make him act according to his advice and the current one guarantee that he will be a laughingstock, not only among Griffindors, so he protested.
- Father, Potter is a guy, I will not give him flowers and chocolates!
Lucius not very elegantly scratched his head. Draco did not appreciate his genius methods, but he had good point. But there are always more expensive and more reliable methods.
- How about jewelry? - Draco rolled his eyes and begged Merlin to be struck by lightning.
- Am I to give him a diamond necklace, Father? - He asked sarcastically.
- Do not talk like this to your father. Do you also need extra lessons in respect? - The icy tone did not mean anything good for him. Draco made contrite face, he did go too far, but how in this situation could he stay calm?! Meanwhile his father went on with his idea. - I thought about a precious gift: ornate holster wand, maybe some accessories for Quidditch.
Before he could disperse, Snape mercifully interfered. He enjoyed Draco's humiliation, but he was not going to let his house become a source of entertainment for Gryffindors.
- Your methods are probably effective in a normal situation, but for Potter - Draco is an enemy and any gift from him will be immediately treated with a curse. Just like Draco himself, if he had approached him with compliments.
Draco enthusiastically nodded affirmatively. Yes, Potter hated his guts and love for him is not an option.
For Lucius, however, that was not impossible. After some thought he had a new plan.
- Yes, it may be better to first convince Potter that you mean no harm. For example, organize a crafty attack and rescue him from oppression. Damsels rescued from oppression usually fall in love with their heroes.
Draco did not even have the strength to explain that Potter is a hero not a damsel in oppression.
Severus helped him again, though it was not very flattering for Draco. - Do you really think Lucius, that Draco could carry out a plan so complicated? -
The boy snorted indignantly, but his father had to admit his friend was right.
- Fact. - He said gloomily, but then brightened. - We can attack Potter and Draco will save him!
Severus shook his head.
- The Dark Lord banned all the actions against Potter. How do you plan explaining it to him?
Malfoy sighed, but he had a good day, so immediately he came up with new, even better idea.
- So why don't we attack Draco, and Potter will be the savior? He is good at it. - Severus frowned and nodded. This plan was good, and he would have a chance to pay the boy back for his insolence - for a good cause, of course. He smiled broadly.
Besides, it is true that young Malfoy had no chance to win Potter's heart, but it would not hurt if they became friends...
- It might be a good idea. - He said nodding his head thoughtfully, Draco glared at him. He did not want to get Potter, he did not want a boyfriend, he had a girlfriend! Severus cut him off sharply and grabbed his arm. - Work on this idea, Lucius, for now we have to go back to school. We will talk later.
Before Draco could protest any further, Professor pulled him along and when they were out the door he made him shut up with simple truth.
- Shut up before your father comes out behind us. Do you want him to come up with something even better? Because you have to accept something, and this may not be such a bad thing.
Draco still puffed and huffed and threw angry looks, but because he had had enough of his father's wonderful ideas father he did not say a word until they left the Manor.