Disclaimer: I do NOT own any of the characters or story plot lines from any of the books. In general, I do NOT own anything. They belong to J.K. Rowling. The only thing that is mine is the new story line between Draco and Harry, I guess.
Author's Note: Another update! Hope you guys like it. =) And the plot thickens…dun dun dun. Haha enjoy ^^. I actually had a different version of this chapter done a while ago but I went back and added to it so part of it will be in the next chapter. Sorry it took so long, had to slow things down a bit.
We Spoke Too Soon, Rumors Are Here
Tuesday, October 12
Draco woke up bright and early and lay in bed for a while just staring at the ceiling. He didn't want to face reality. He couldn't believe he had gone through with it. He couldn't believe Harry was just on the other side of his wall of pillows; asleep. He sighed while getting up. He walked over to the window and sat on the window seat and pulled his legs up so he could rest his chin on his knees while looking outside. It was too early for many of the students to be up and the sun had barely risen. He stayed there lost in thought until he saw a hand being waved in front of his line of sight. Draco turned his head and looked into the green eyes of Harry Potter.
"You're up early. You alright?"
"Of course I am. I was just thinking about everything. It did happen in a rush."
He watched as Harry nodded and turned his eyes outside as well.
"You better get in the shower first or I might beat you to it and you probably take forever to get ready with how you always look."
Draco took in the statement and wasn't sure if there was a hidden compliment in that statement or not. He got up and walked into the bathroom after gathering some clean clothes for the day. Draco let the hot water relax his tense back muscles. After he showered, he changed and walked out of the bathroom to find Harry sitting at the window spaced out. Draco tapped him on the shoulder and Harry focused his eyes on him.
"Sorry about that. Bathroom empty?"
"…Yes. You alright?"
"Yeah. I'm just trying to mentally prepare and plan for any situations that may arise today."
Draco nodded and pulled Harry up so he could push him in the direction of the bathroom. Draco sat at the desk in the room and pulled out a piece of parchment. He wrote a letter to Theo and Pansy telling them that he would not be joining them at the table today. He also said he would explain later on and made sure to write that he had bonded to Harry so they wouldn't be surprised when they saw them. After he finished writing, he sent it with his eagle-owl and waited about ten minutes until Harry was back out, changed and ready to go. Harry really did get ready faster than he did. They walked into the common room and picked up their bags. They walked out of the portrait and bid farewell to Tiamat. They reached the doors of the great hall, but Harry paused and Draco turned towards him confused.
"What's wrong? Forget something?"
"It's early so not many people will be in there but rumors go around fast. You ready for this?"
Draco stayed quiet. He wasn't sure he would ever be ready but they might as well get in there and stop delaying the inevitable.
"Yes. Now let's go."
"Do you want to go in holding hands? You know, to make it more obvious why we are going in together and at the same time?"
Draco just nodded. He saw Harry's hand reach for his own and soon felt the gentle yet callous hand interlock its fingers with his. Draco felt a very light blush come onto his face and looked towards the door which Harry had opened for them both.
….
Harry followed Draco inside. There were more students inside than there normally would be. Great, well at least the rumors would spread faster. Harry steered them towards the Gryffindor table. He felt Draco tighten his grip on his hand and gave him back a reassuring squeeze. They sat down and Harry began to serve himself. He glanced at Draco to see he was slowly doing the same.
From the moment they walked in, the great hall had gone quiet and then exploded into whispers. Most of the Slytherin table looked terrified and Harry saw Lucas Harper run out of the great hall in a great hurry. Amusingly, he did not have a terrified face, but one of joy. The Gryffindors at the table were all mixed up. Some had faces of disgust, others with confusion and some with looks of curiosity and interest.
After a couple of minutes Ron and Hermione came in and Hermione came to sit in front of them, while Ron went to sit with Neville and Luna. Harry looked sadly over at him.
"He'll come around Harry. He's just really upset. How are you this morning?" Harry turned to her.
"Fine. Just exhausted."
"It's tiring the next day. How about you Malfoy?"
Harry watched as Draco looked up from his plate and stared silently at Hermione. Harry prayed he would at least be civil.
"Fine. Thank you Granger."
Hermione looked surprised and just nodded.
"Harry how do you plan to handle the situation?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well did you just think that walking around with Malfoy would solve the whole problem with telling everyone? What about the Slytherins? Zabini isn't here yet but I'm sure he will be angry and…"
"You know about Zabini?" Draco interrupted her.
"He-he sorry I kind of told them that when I told them about us."
Draco looked angry and huffed, but continued eating, angling his body away from Harry.
"I said I was sorry." No answer. "Fine be that way. Anyway Hermione you were saying?"
"Yes well…how will you handle them? And what about Ginny? You know she will cause chaos. Just wait until the media gets a hold of this. The Daily Prophet will love this and they won't try and get the story from you two."
Harry put his head in his hands. He had known about all of that. He figured it would just come to him and he could handle it as it came.
"I haven't planned everything. I know how to handle Ginny and Zabini. The media well it's not like they have ever cared about my side of the story anyway."
Hermione pursed her lips but said nothing more on that.
"Well now is the part where I can be the gushing best friend instead of the mothering best friend. Show me your ring!"
Harry lifted his arm and extended it towards her. Hermione examined all of it and made amazed little faces.
"Wow Harry this is beautiful! It suits you nicely, although it does look rather Slytherin." Hermione laughed. She turned toward the angry Slytherin and looked hesitant but then put on a face of determination.
"Uh Malfoy? Would it be alright if I could look at your ring?"
Harry watched as Draco turned to face her and a mix of emotions fell over his face but he hid them so fast that Harry only caught one. Excitement. Odd. Did that mean that Draco secretly loved his ring and was happy to be showing it off, but didn't have anyone to show it to? Draco nodded and extended his arm towards Hermione who was shocked yet delighted. Draco had a small smile on his face that he kept trying to get rid of. Hermione examined the ring had an impressed look on her face.
"It's beautiful and elegant. Just like the owner. You're lucky Malfoy."
Hermione gave him a small smile and Draco just nodded but you could see the pride in his eyes. Harry smiled at them. Maybe this whole being friends' thing would be easier than they thought.
….
Blaise was in his room looking over a small book that had his name glazed in silver on the front. He heard knocking on the door and put the book down and into a drawer before he answered the door. He opened the door to see Lucas, who was out of breath, outside of his room.
"Lucas what's going on? This better be important. I was reviewing my plans."
"It's great news Blaise!"
Lucas threw his arms around Blaise and kissed him. Blaise kissed him back once and then pushed Lucas off of his body.
"You found out who wants to bond with Draco and you got rid of him?" Lucas looked put out.
"No! Draco is already bonded to someone. It's over. Now we can get married and not have to wait! Isn't this great?"
Blaise was stunned. He snapped out of it and his anger came bursting out.
"How the hell is that good news? This ruins everything! Who is Draco bonded to?" Lucas shrank back as Blaise pulled him into his room and slammed the door.
"Potter."
Blaise paused. Potter? Then it all made sense. Potter was always around Draco and seemed to be more involved than he should be.
"Why didn't I see this before? Stupid Potter."
"How is this bad? Now we can be together."
"I thought I told you we won't be together until after I was finished with Draco!"
"Why is he so damn important anyway?"
"Because I would get everything that belongs to the Malfoy family! Every secret, every ounce of political power, every banned book, magic that only Malfoys can posses and one very important thing. I would get the magic only if I was the first one to impregnate Draco! Also, when the dark lord was alive, he slipped Draco a potion that would make his children have special abilities that would only belong to magical creatures. He had planned on having powerful children so he made it possible for Draco to be the incubator for them. The dark lord told me about this before the battle so that I could continue everything if anything bad happened. That book I'm always reading is from him! Now do you understand?"
Lucas nodded slowly and looked down dejected. Blaise sighed as his anger dissipated. He walked over to Lucas and embraced him.
"I'm sorry. I just can't be with you right now. I have to figure out a way to get Draco pregnant. After he has the child, I'll take it away from him leaving him with nothing and left broken inside and out. After that we can be together I promise."
Lucas hugged him back and nodded. Blaise leaned down and kissed Lucas. He pushed him onto his couched and they lay like that making out. When they need breath they broke apart and Lucas spoke up sadly.
"I love you Blaise. I love kissing you, but sometimes it's just not enough. There are times where I go crazy because I want you inside me again. I know we can't go there because then we would automatically be married and you have to do all that stuff with Malfoy. I miss the times we had before this stupid law."
Blaise placed his forehead on Lucas'.
"I know it's hard. Just be patient. The sooner I go through with this, the sooner we can be together."
Lucas nodded. "So how are we going to get him pregnant?"
"That's my Lucas. I don't know yet. I never expected this to happen."
Blaise was absently stoking Lucas' arm and Lucas closed his eyes to enjoy it while Blaise was left to his thoughts. Blaise stopped and Lucas opened his eyes. Blaise let out a frustrated sigh.
"I'm calling a meeting for this evening. Make sure everyone knows."
With that Blaise got up and picked up his bag. He walked out of his room and left Lucas alone on the couch looking sad. Blaise's head was so clouded that he couldn't come up with any good ideas for how to get to Draco. He would be guarded more now that he was bonded to Potter. Stupid Gryffindors. Blaise fingered the ring in his pocket. Umbridge had been very helpful in helping him modify his ring. If he could get Potter's ring off and his on Draco's finger then no one could stop him from completing his plans. Blaise smirked. Things would turn out. They always had a way of working themselves out for him. An idea would hit him when he least expected.
He saw Potter and his group up ahead standing in front of the great hall. Blaise's smirk widened as he devised a way to throw them off and make Draco feel uneasy. He got closer and he knew the group had noticed him by now. Blaise turned his gaze away and ignored the group as he passed by them and into the great hall. Before he went all the way in he glanced in Draco's direction and gave a short evil smile before he turned his eyes back to the great hall and disappeared from view.
Blaise chuckled to himself. He made sure Draco was the only one to catch his glance. He was probably feeling very unnerved now. The fact that he ignored them would make them feel a little better and make them drop part of their guard. He would strike when they least expected it. Blaise watched as his fellow snakes looked at him uneasily. He smiled at them and sat down to eat. Lucas came in a while later and sat to his right. When Blaise finished eating he glanced at Lucas and only saw him playing with his food. Blaise slipped his hand under the table and squeezed Lucas' hand. Lucas turned to him with his honey colored eyes and then looked down at his plate and started eating. Blaise saw a blush on his face and he knew it was because his own hazel-green had starred directly into Lucas' eyes.
Blaise looked around at his inner circle of friends. Lucas was his right hand man and second in command. Damon and Darah Warrington were the silent genius identical twins; the only difference was that Damon had cold green eyes while Darah had cold ocean blue eyes. Although, Damon did have a tendency to have wild moments while Darah was always calm and observant; which is why she was third in command. Then there was Jeremy Flint. He was a mean guy and a good quidditch player. He was good with strategy and deceit. His brother was in Azkaban somewhere. Last there was Stephen Pucey. He was the toughest guy of the group. He may not be as smart as the rest of them but he wasn't stupid either. He got okay scores and understood 70% of things in classes. With everyone in this group they could come up with something. Blaise felt calmer about the whole situation. He just needed to be patient. Pleased with himself, he intertwined his fingers with Lucas' and began a conversation with Darah. Everyone noticed Blaise's mood and untensed their bodies; Lucas was smiling like crazy and finished his breakfast with vigor.
….
Draco stood next to Harry outside the great hall feeling completely creeped out. What was with the look Zabini had sent him before he went into the great hall? Draco heard Harry and Granger discuss the fact that Zabini had ignored them and what it could mean. Longbottom, Luna and Weasley were with them. While Weasley still refused to speak with Harry and himself, he stayed close by. Weasley wasn't a half bad friend after all Draco decided. Zabini's look flashed in front of his face and Draco shock his head. Stupid Zabini. What was going through his head? All of the confrontations and now there was nothing. Draco gripped Harry's hand a little tighter as a whole bunch of scenarios passed through his mind. Harry's thumb was rubbing the back of Draco's hand in some weird kind of comfort he guessed because he was still talking to Granger.
Draco thought back to his schedule as he remembered that Pansy and Theo were still clueless. He had potions with Harry first and then Arithmancy with Theo and Pansy. He could talk with them then. Draco felt a soft tug at his arm and looked to see that everyone was already heading to Potions. Draco followed next to Harry.
"You okay?" Draco shrugged.
"I really don't know what to say. I know that being ignored doesn't mean we should put our guards down but it doesn't mean we have to be worrying all the time. We have other things that we need to focus on."
"Like the Weaslette's reaction?" Harry didn't seem to have remembered about the Weaslette. Draco couldn't forget. Her dramatic scandals always gave him headaches.
"Well there's that, but we'll handle that when it comes up because she can be unpredictable. What I meant was focusing on getting to know each other better, you know? Make this work out the best it can."
Draco nodded. He had a point. He couldn't put his life on hold because he was scared Zabini would attack from somewhere. Besides what could he do now that he was bonded to Harry? [Muhahaha =) ].
Potions went by without too much trouble. Afterwards Draco told Harry that he would walk with Theo and Pansy to Arithmancy. Draco watched as Harry walked in the opposite direction.
"Draco." Draco turned towards his friends.
"You said you were going to explain." Theo stated. Draco nodded.
As they walked to class, Draco cast some silencing spells on them and then proceeded to tell his friends about how he got stuck in this situation about the bonding ceremony. Draco blushed royally when he was done.
"I can't believe you did that with Potter." Pansy gasped and gagged a little.
"I know, neither can I. I'm sorry about breakfast."
"Draco don't worry. We understand. Maybe because of this union we can sit with you so you're not completely alone. Seeing as Potter is your husband now we will be seeing a lot of him and his friends." Draco smiled at Pansy.
"Thanks Pans." Theo cleared his throat.
"So you suspect Zabini is planning something but you don't know for sure?"
"Yes Theo. You should have seen the look he gave me this morning. I'm not sure if he's given up because he can't do anything now that I'm bonded to Harry right?"
Theo and Pansy stayed quiet.
"Draco darling I don't know. He's become quite the Slytherin and with his group of friends…well who knows whether it's over yet."
Draco nodded. He knew that. He just hoped that things would go away. Then a thought hit him.
"Want to see my ring?" He asked excitedly.
"Of course darling. Don't forget who you are talking to."
Theo rolled his eyes at their antics. Pansy was gushing over Draco's ring and even Theo looked impressed with it.
"I must say Draco. You take that expensive taste everywhere don't you?"
Draco just grinned as they reached the classroom. Before they went in they made sure to put their masks of indifference on. Draco was finally getting his mask back.
After class the trio headed towards the great hall for lunch. When they got to the entrance hall Draco was thrown to the floor by a body tackling him. Pansy and Theo had taken their wands out ready for any Slytherin attacks but they weren't ready for this. Draco looked up to see red hair. Oh great. Harry was missing the Weaslette's reaction. Draco glared at her and pushed her off of him.
"What is your problem Weaslette? Can't even watch where you're going?"
"You're my problem Malfoy. You're an evil little bastard. What did you do to him?"
"I assure you that I haven't the slightest idea as to what you are blabbering about."
"Harry! You did something to him or blackmailed him, didn't you?"
"Weaslette I'll have you know that I did nothing of the sort. Harry acted on his own accord."
"Don't call him Harry. You don't deserve it!"
"I can call him anything I want to."
"Argh you jerk! You'd better stop whatever you've done to him!"
"I haven't done a single thing to your beloved Harry. I'm not the type of person to force others to do something so they can have their way like some people I know."
Ginny looked like she had been slapped. Draco knew she knew he knew about the things she had been trying on Harry.
"You're going to pay for that!"
Ginny charged at Draco while pointing her wand at Draco and saying a curse. Draco wasn't sure what to do. If he ducked the curse the Weaslette would still charge at him. He could handle her but if he hurt her Weasley wouldn't forgive him and he didn't want things to be tenser between them than they already were. Harry was really taking it badly. Draco decided on avoiding both of them but when he tried to move his feet wouldn't move. Great, he hadn't been paying enough attention to her thinking she wasn't that big of a threat. She had taken advantage of it and cast a spell to keep him stuck there. Draco wanted to smack himself in the head for his stupidity. She was getting closer so Draco just braced himself. Draco waited and then heard a loud noise but never felt an impact.
He looked up and saw Harry standing in front of him with his wand raised. There was a shield out in front of him with the Weaslette lying on the floor just before it. Where had Harry come from?
"You okay?"
"Yes fi…"Draco looked at Harry's face and his eyes were a burning fire and that stopped what he was going to say.
"Good."
He watched as Harry said the counter-curse for the spell on his feet and as he brought down his shield. Draco looked to his left and Granger, Weasley, Longbottom and Luna were all in a group to the side. Weasley walked over towards Harry but stayed behind a couple steps.
"Ginny what were you thinking?"
"What was I thinking? I was just trying to help you out. I know Malfoy forced you into this somehow."
"Ginny I have told you before that I am not interested in you."
"Harry I know I pushed you but I can change."
"That has nothing to do with this. I am married to Draco and that was MY CHOICE. When are you going to accept this?"
"Stop lying Harry. You didn't have to go this far to get me to back off!"
"Ginny I…"
"Ginny stop this!" Weasley interrupted Harry's sentence.
Weasley walked up to her and grabbed her arm and took her away. Draco heard Harry say a quiet "Thanks Ron" to which Weasley gave a slight nod. Draco was stunned. Who knew Weasley could handle situations that well. He came back minutes later and walked straight towards Draco. Draco felt Harry come closer just in case. Weasley stopped in front of Draco and just stared at him.
"Thanks Malfoy, for not attacking my sister."
Draco was stunned. He had done that for Harry but he never would have figured that Weasley would have noticed his hesitation towards the Weaslette.
"You're uh…welcome Weasley."
Weasley nodded and headed towards the great hall doors.
"Are you all just going to stand there or go get food because I know I'm starving?"
He heard Granger sigh and start to lecture Weasley on his stomach then:
"Where is Ginny anyway?"
"Threw her in the lake so she could cool off."
Granger smacked him in the head.
"Oww!"
"You deserve it."
Draco sighed. It seemed like the tension had gone down between them. He started heading towards the doors but Harry pulled his arm back. Draco turned to face Harry with a questioning eyebrow. Harry didn't say anything at first then:
"Thanks."
Draco was enveloped into Harry's arms as he was given a hug. He heard Harry give a sigh of relief. Draco awkwardly patted Harry on the back with his right hand. Harry released him and Draco felt a strange sense of loss.
"Come on let's go eat before Ron eats everything."
Draco nodded and heard someone clear their throat. Draco turned to Pansy and Theo and looked slightly sheepish. They had put their wands away. They hadn't been sure what to do the whole time because they didn't know what was going on.
"Oh. Uh Pansy, Theo this is Harry. Harry this is Pansy and Theo. I know you know who they are but you haven't been properly introduced."
Harry nodded at them. Pansy came over and Draco tensed. What was she going to do now? She stood in front of him and then suddenly embraced him. Draco laughed at Harry's stunned face.
"You better treat him right Potter, or else. Now can I have my wife back? You do have a husband now, go hug him. Oh wait you just did." Theo challenged while he laughed. He took Pansy into his arms. Draco blushed.
"Theo!"
Draco felt arms come around from behind him. Draco felt his blush deepen as he saw Harry's arms around him.
"This good enough for you?" Harry came back at Theo with.
"You're not so bad Potter. We'll see you later Draco. I'm sure Pansy will attack you with more questions."
Draco nodded and he watched as they both walked into the great hall.
"Are you going to let go anytime soon?"
"Hmm maybe I shouldn't. Let's go in like this. It'll be fun to see their faces."
Draco pulled away from the embrace and turned to Harry.
"I think they've had enough for one day."
"Aww you ruin all my fun."
"Someone has to keep you in line when Granger is gone."
"You're no fun. But it will be fun to tell Hermione what you just said. She'll love to hear that compliment."
"Don't you dare!"
"Why not? I saved you. I need some kind of reward. I am your hero after all.
Draco stared at him and then walked towards Harry. He reached out his hand towards Harry's face.
"I was kidding. You don't have to do anything. Don't hit me."
Draco loved the face Harry made when he grabbed his chin and turned his face so he could give him a kiss on the cheek. Draco stepped back and Harry's face flushed.
"Thanks hero. Now I'm hungry."
Draco turned towards the doors and wasn't surprised to hear footsteps and a hand grasp his as they entered the great hall for lunch.
…
Wednesday, October 13
The next day the whispers were just as bad. Harry and Draco headed towards breakfast and came in ten minutes before the mail flew in. As they started on their meals, the owls flew in. Harry ignored them as he wasn't expecting anything. Draco got a letter from his mother though, but instead of being happy or expectant, Draco was frowning.
"What's wrong?"
"I got a letter from my mother."
"I can see that but what's wrong?"
"No that's it. My mother shouldn't have sent me a letter. I haven't replied to her yet."
"Well read it and let's see what it says."
As Draco was opening his letter they heard Hermione gasp. Harry turned to her and saw her drop her copy of the Daily Prophet. Was everyone getting unexpected news?
"Hermione?"
"Harry…read this…"
Harry picked up the paper and turned it towards him. He scanned the page until he found a title that caught his eye.
Harry Potter Blackmailed Into Marriage
By: Rita Skeeter
The hero of the wizarding world, Harry Potter, was married this past Monday. While marriage is an occasion for joy and love, this particular marriage is all but that. You may be asking how Harry Potter got married without having a significant other. Many still believe that Potter and Ginerva Weasley would tie the knot…but something went wrong. Instead of the only female Weasley, Potter married none other than Draco Malfoy. This may surprise and disgust many people but it had been confirmed by the ministry itself. Now what motive would Potter have for marrying the Malfoy heir? None that's what. It seems Potter was blackmailed into marrying the young Malfoy by the life debt that came into effect during the war; between Mr. Potter and Mrs. Malfoy. The young Malfoy is probably searching for a way to redeem his reputation. Ms. Weasley was interviewed after this information came to light. "I don't know what to do now. Harry and I are very distraught at the whole situation. We were going to be married soon and then this came up. That Malfoy never seems to stop being a sneaky git." Will this be allowed to take place? For the sake of Harry Potter, I hope not and I'm sure many readers will too.
"What the hell?"
"What? Let me see it." Draco took the paper from Harry and read it. He then let the paper fall from his hands. He looked a little scared. Harry frowned. Why was everyone freaking?
"What's up with you two? It's just an article. Everyone knows they write things that aren't true a lot of the time. Who's going to believe this? Besides Ginny isn't a credible source. I can't believe she did this though."
"Harry you don't understand." Hermione said. Harry turned to Draco but he was looking at the table biting his lip.
"Enlighten me then."
"Harry…It doesn't matter whether what Ginny or the article said is true. There is doubt that this is a marriage of consent. The ministry will have to do an investigation on the two of you and use veritaserum too. Even if they see the rumors are false, they'll be watching you guys closely. It's a risk to your marriage."
"What? Why make such a big deal out of everything?"
"Because while they wanted this law to go through, they still don't want couples to have a slave relationship."
Harry turned towards Draco. He was still looking down but he was glancing at the Slytherin table. Harry turned towards the table and saw Zabini smirking in Draco's direction. Harry frowned. This situation wasn't good at all. Why did the whole world have to believe this was some kind of mistake…well he knew why but Draco had been cleared. Prejudices could not be easily broken. Annoyed Harry stood up.
"Harry?" Hermione questioned.
"I think we've lost our appetites. Come on Draco let's go."
Draco stood up and followed Harry out. Harry led to an unused classroom and locked the door. He turned towards Draco who was sitting on a desk with his head in his hands. Harry walked over to him and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey we'll get through this. There's nothing to hide." Draco looked up at him and shook his head.
"But it makes sense. We really didn't marry for love or for an arranged marriage. It was just for convenience. What if that counts and even if it doesn't they will still be watching us. With Zabini and the Weaslette, they could ruin this whole thing. I'm barely getting used to this and I really don't want to end up with Zabini."
"Don't worry. We'll get through this. We'll figure something out. There's nothing wrong with what we did."
Draco just gave him an unsure look and then nodded.
"I'll trust you Harry."
"Good. You won't regret it."
Draco then suggested they head to class. When they got to defense Hermione came up to them with two letters in her hand.
"You guys left without checking to see that there was another owl for you and Malfoy you forgot this."
They reached for their letters. Harry opened the letter and read it. When he finished he crunched it up and burned it. Harry looked up to see Draco finishing his letter.
"Well what was it Harry?" Hermione said impatiently.
"It was from the ministry. They said they're coming by tomorrow."
"You're going to miss class again?"
"Yes. Don't worry I'll get caught up. Draco's an expert in the classes we have tomorrow."
"Alright. Well I'm going to go sit down. Class will start soon."
Hermione left the couple to go back to her seat next to Ron. Harry and Draco sat towards the back.
"What did your mother say?"
"Well I hadn't told her about us yet so she said she was disappointed I hadn't told her and that she had to find out through the papers. The press was all over her when she went out. She also said she hopes that I'm happy and that she accepts you. She said you're quite the catch. If we need help to let her know and if she can, she will."
"Tell her I say thank you." Draco nodded.
"Well tomorrow should be eventful. They're coming at ten in the morning. We have to meet them in the headmistresses' office."
"I'll make sure you get up if you oversleep."
"Hey I only did that this morning."
"We shall see. I still don't know your sleeping habits yet."
"Yet?"
"I told you that I would trust you." Harry laughed.
"So you did. "
Class started after that. During the class Harry planned a strategy for tomorrow.
….
Thursday, October 14
Draco woke up to the rustling sounds in the room. He opened his eyes to see Harry getting ready and moving about the room.
"Why are you up so early? It's seven-thirty in the morning."
"Sorry if I woke you up. Just couldn't sleep any longer. Sleep some more. I'll wake you up with enough time."
Draco was too sleepy to argue. He went back to sleep. When he felt himself waking again, Harry calling his name.
"Hey it's nine. Time to get ready."
Draco sat up and got out of bed. A delicious smell hit his nostrils.
"You made breakfast?"
"I told you I couldn't sleep anymore. Cooking helps me think. Shower's ready."
"…Thank you."
Draco went in to get ready; when he was done he went into the kitchen. Harry wasn't kidding about cooking. He had made pancakes, eggs, fruit bowls, and bacon. Draco dug in and savored the taste. At least Harry was a good cook. When they finished they sat in the common room to kill time.
"So what's your brilliant plan?"
"Well the people coming today are Umbridge, Shacklebolt and the minister. Shacklebolt knows me so I know he will help us out. The minister is scared of me now so that's covered. Umbridge is the hard one. I think if we can get a solid case then Umbridge will have to back off since she already has a strike against her."
"She was a terrible woman here at school, which was why it was fun to torture you." Harry rolled his eyes. Draco glanced at his watch. It was nine forty-five. "We should get going."
They walked towards the headmistress' office and up the stairs. When they knocked on the door, Shacklebolt was the one who opened the door.
"Right on time boys."
The office was set up with three chairs to the right of the headmistress' desk and two on the left.
"Hello boys. I'm sure you find this a hassle but you never know with these kinds of things." The minister said.
Draco sat next to Harry.
"Alright now you will be interviewed individually. Draco you will go first. Harry if you could please wait outside with Auror Shacklebolt."
Draco watched as Harry was escorted out and the door closed. He turned towards the other occupants in the room. McGonagall was seated at her desk quietly. The minister was waiting for Umbridge to hand him something, most likely the potion. After she handed it to him, she looked at Draco and gave him an evil grin. What the hell was this woman's problem? The minister came over and handed him a dropper filled with three drops of the potion. Draco took it and swallowed it. He felt his eyes glaze over and lose some sort of control over his mind.
"Now …eh Potter what is your full name?"
"Draco Potter."
"When is your birthday?"
"June 5, 1980."
"Is it true that your mother blackmailed Harry James Potter into marrying you?"
"No. She hasn't spoken to him since the battle with Voldemort."
"Is you marriage in anyway forced?" Draco paused but answered.
"…No. We both consented to it."
"Do you carry any ill will towards Harry James Potter?"
"No."
"Is your marriage going well?"
"Yes."
"That'll be all Mr. Potter. Please go outside and Shacklebolt will stay with you until the potion wears off. It should be soon. Send in Harry please."
Draco got up and opened the door. Harry stopped his conversation with Shacklebolt and turned towards him.
"You okay?"
"Yes. You seem to ask that a lot."
"There seems to be a lot of occasions in which I have to."
Draco laughed and told Harry it was his turn. Harry went in and closed the door. Draco felt uncomfortable being alone with Shacklebolt.
"So Harry was telling me about the situation." Draco froze.
"Don't worry. There's nothing wrong with it. It's like an arranged marriage." Draco nodded.
"I'll help you two out. Everyone just wants something to talk about now that the danger is gone. I've been watching Umbridge but she's sneaky."
"Yes she is. Will they be keeping an eye on us?"
"Yes but I'm working on it so that you're the least of their worries. Should get that done by tomorrow so you can relax."
"Thank you."
"You're not too bad Malfoy, even if you didn't talk much but I'm good at reading people. Before you have a fit, it's just weird calling you Potter."
"That's fine. You take care of Harry a lot don't you?"
"Yeah. He's a loveable kind of guy. I'm sure this will work out easier because he is who he is."
"Hope so."
"He's a good guy with a big heart. You grow to like him as a friend in no time." Draco nodded. He'd seen that part of Harry through his struggles with Zabini.
"You two best be getting to know each other better though. Wouldn't want to be caught not knowing anything about the other."
"We've been working on that. We started yesterday and I'm sure we'll talk tonight as well."
"Good. I hear footsteps coming this way."
At that Harry opened the door and was followed by the minister who seemed content and Umbridge who had a sour look on her face.
"Good day gentlemen."
Draco and Harry headed down the stairs first. They went back to their rooms and sat in the common room. Harry had a pensive look on his face
"What did they ask you?"
"Just about my intentions on getting married to you, if your mother spoke to me, if I was being forced, etc."
Draco nodded and watched as Harry's face turned to a determined one.
"Well let's get started on those stories of our lives shall we?" Harry said with a lightened tone.
….
Saturday, October 16
Harry was sitting by the fire with Draco like they always did after dinner, even through the investigation fiasco. They had chosen to eat dinner in the rooms so they could have their time to bond and not have to suffer under the looks and whispers of the entire school. Most of the school disapproved of their marriage, especially after the article. There were those who believed that Draco was just using Harry, or that it was blackmail. Some didn't believe that the hero who defeated Voldemort should have ended up with death eater scum. Many were jealous because they weren't the ones Harry had chosen.
It was their sixth day of being married and they had made some good progress as friends, plus there hadn't been any incidents involving Ginny and Zabini during these past couple of days. Harry had shared with Draco the fun times with his friends and pseudo-family. He had shown him the album of his parents he still had. Harry laughed at the expressions Draco would make when he would tell him of his adventures at Hogwarts because of Voldemort. Draco had been very supportive yet awkward at comforting him when he talked about Cedric and Sirius.
Draco had shared his own experiences as well. He explained to Harry how scared he had been sixth year and how he hadn't really wanted to kill Dumbledore. He told Harry how he was sometimes envious of him because he couldn't be as great as him. Harry had told him he was crazy and that everyone had something they were good. His just happened to be quidditch, trouble, battle, defense and luck. It took a while to convince Draco he wasn't as useless as he was led to be believed by his father and Voldemort. Draco told him about the three months he spent in the dungeons locked up after Snape and he had run away. Harry was surprised to learn that the change of thought Draco had undergone was while he was there and that was why he had helped him and his friends. Draco had shyly thanked him again for speaking up for him at the trial. Harry had just grinned and gave him a short hug, which Draco blushed a little at.
Harry sighed. They were out of neutral or almost neutral topics to talk about. They would start getting into the messy stories about their families tonight. Harry turned to find Draco looking at him.
"You okay? That was a heavy sigh."
Harry nodded. Guess he would have to start now. Oh well. Here goes nothing.
"I'm fine. I was just thinking about something about my relatives that I haven't told you yet."
"You don't have to tell me Harry. I know some things are painful."
"I thought we were supposed to be bonding?"
Draco gave him a look and Harry laughed.
"I'm serious. You kind of have to know this to understand me. Ron and Hermione are the only ones who know the whole story. Ginny and the twins (Both live. You can't separate them ^^.) know parts but that's it."
Harry watched as Draco moved in his seat to face Harry with a pensive yet emotionless face on. He had to get Draco out of the habit when they were alone. Draco looked so much better expressing himself. Harry took the total silence as his cue to start with his story.
"Okay well you know about my parents. Since I was the only one to survive Dumbledore took me to live with my mother's sister who is a muggle. My aunt, uncle and cousin don't like things that are out of the ordinary, so when they found me they had a fit because I was a wizard. They didn't want anything to do with me, a 'freak'."
"You're not a freak."
"Well that's what my relatives would always call me. They had to be normal and because I couldn't be, I was disliked and treated differently. I'm glad they were never able to find out I'm gay or else they would have something else to throw in my face if I ever see them again. I lived in a cupboard under the stairs for the first eleven years of my life. My cousin would treat me like a punching bag. That's why I'm a fast runner. I had to get away from him and being fast helped. I had to do all the chores around the house. That's how I learned to cook and clean and garden and a whole bunch of other stuff. I didn't get to go to the good schools and the clothes you always saw me wearing were hand-me-downs from my cousin who is as huge as a whale."
"Why didn't you leave?"
"I couldn't. The house had a spell cast on it that would hide me form Voldemort and keep me safe. I had no other choice. I would leave towards the end of the summer but it would be at the Weasley's house or some secret place. Before my second year I was given my own room because they were afraid of me. They ended up barring the windows and locking me in. If I didn't do something right my uncle would beat me and my aunt would just take my cousin to another room. I hated it there. They're still family so I'm glad they got out before Voldemort came but I never want to see them again."
"Harry…I'm so sorry."
Harry looked up to see Draco looking really sad.
"Hey it's okay. It's in the past now."
"No. I said all those mean things to you about not having parents and you were going through all his every summer. I'm such a horrible person. I'm really am very sorry."
"I said its okay. I forgive you. You're not the exact same Draco from before. You're not horrible. Anyways I thought Malfoys didn't apologize."
"How can you forgive me so easily? And I'm not a Malfoy anymore or have you forgotten?"
"Of course I haven't. You didn't know about my life. How could you have known?"
"Doesn't give me an excuse to have been that cruel. I'm sorry your parents aren't here, that you don't have a family to enjoy and do the things you do with families."
"Hey that's not true. Technically, you're my family now and the Weasley's, Hermione, Remus, Tonks and everyone I've gotten close to seems like family to me. I may get lonely and miss my parents but I don't wallow in sadness. They saved me, so I should enjoy the life they helped protect."
"I should be the one comforting you, not the other way around." Harry laughed.
"It's alright. I have come to terms with it. Besides I have experienced your displays of comfort."
"Well excuse me for trying. It's not like I do this every day, you know."
"I know. I was kidding, but thanks."
Draco nodded and Harry leaned back in his chair.
"My story is not as interesting as yours."
"We're not competing here."
"…Whatever. Let's see I was born into a pureblood family. Since I was little I was trained in the ways of the pureblood. My mother was always affectionate with me when I was younger but she stopped after a certain point. I only really got her affection on special or rare occasions. She did teach me a lot like I said. She didn't want me to end up in a loveless marriage."
Things were quiet after that.
"Sorry I didn't mean to imply anything."
"It's fine. Go on."
"Yes well things with my father were different. He was very loving when I was very young but he became colder and more into the death eater ordeal. I disappointed him a lot. I always wanted to make him proud but it never worked. Granger always beat me with school, you at quidditch. I was only able to be the best in potions but he didn't see that as an accomplishment. I sort of became my father in my early years at Hogwarts but I slowly began to realize I wasn't anything like him. I started thinking on my own and discovering who I really was. I'm glad he's locked up and I haven't seen my mother in a while. I wonder when I'll see her again. Anyway I guess I turned out to be a pretty useless person. I couldn't do anything during the war, or before. That's why I want to do something now."
"Draco you're not useless. How many times do I have to say it? Where's the old Draco I know? I'm sure you will do great at the ministry."
"Thanks Potter."
"Hey I thought it was Harry."
"Sorry. Old habits die hard."
"Well I think we've had enough of emotional dumping. Let's get some sleep."
Harry led Draco to their room, where they got ready for bed and lay on their respective sides of the bed; divided by the pillow wall. Harry lay awake a little while longer. He was surprised at how much they had told each other and how easy it was to do it. Draco now knew about as much stuff about him as Ron and Hermione did, if not more. They had been getting along great. There were the occasional fights but that was normal. In fact if they never fought then something would be wrong. This was working out pretty well. Things could maybe go in the direction they have always wanted. Harry turned to his side and fell asleep relaxed.
….
Monday, October 18
Heading to Transfiguration, Draco sat next Pansy.
"Morning Draco."
"Morning Pansy."
"How you been?"
"Good except for all the chaos that article and investigation caused."
"I see and things with Potter?"
"They're okay I guess. Been getting along and all that getting to know each other business."
"We haven't seen you lately..."
"Sorry. Had to catch up with Harry because of the classes we missed last week. You wouldn't believe that Granger is a slave driver when it comes to Harry and Weasley and their studies. We had study sessions with them when Harry and I weren't getting 'acquainted."
"Oh."
Class started. They had to turn some fish into lizards while changing their color schemes completely. Draco had just finished turning his orange and white clown fish (A/N: Nemo kind ^^) into a purple and grey lizard when Pansy tapped him on the shoulder.
"Yes?"
"Draco…Theo and I…well we miss you and we've been worried about you. It's been over a week since we had a real talk…" Draco looked surprised.
"I'm sorry. I hadn't realized. I should have though. Pansy…"
"It's okay Draco. We just wanted to know that you're doing alright. We understand what you're going through"
"It's no excuse. I can't go over today but how about tomorrow?"
"What about your time with Potter?"
"I'm sure he could use the time to be with his friends. Besides I've spent a lot of time with him and his friends."
Pansy nodded.
"Okay we will expect you tomorrow then."
Draco gave her a small smile and then waited for class to be over. He headed towards the library where the golden trio was waiting for him.
"Hello Malfoy." Granger greeted.
"Granger. Weasley." Weasley snorted. At least Weasley was on good terms with Harry again.
"Draco good thing you're here now, I had a question."
Draco looked towards Granger. She looked slightly hurt that Harry hadn't asked her but it wasn't as bad as the first time Harry had asked for his help. She was getting used to not being the only expert in the group but Draco guessed it was hard to accept.
"What is it?"
"Well with the potion we've been working on, why does…"
The study session went well. And Draco was on his way back to his room with Harry. When they got inside Draco put his things away and found Harry in the kitchen getting dinner ready.
"Harry?" Harry turned towards him.
"What's up Draco?"
"I just wanted to inform you that I will not be joining for dinner tomorrow." Harry frowned.
"Why not? Something wrong?"
"No. I haven't spent any time with Pansy or Theo and we made plans for tomorrow. I assumed you could use the time to spend with your friends." Harry looked pensive.
"You're right. I haven't spent any alone time with them. I hadn't noticed with all the fuss."
"Yes…so we're set for tomorrow?"
"Yeah. It sounds like fun." Harry chuckled and continued making dinner.
…
Tuesday, October 19
Harryheaded towards Divination. Ron hadn't gotten there yet so he sat at their usual cushion table and waited. Ron arrived shortly after.
"Hey mate."
"Hey. I have a surprise for you that I'm sure you'll like."
"What's that?"
"Well Draco is going to spend dinner with his friends so that leaves me free to hang with you and 'Mione alone."
"Yes!"
"You don't have to sound so excited."
"Can't help it if the ferret still gets on my nerves."
"When will you get over that?"
"Who knows? He'll have to prove himself I guess."
"You never change Ron." Harry laughed.
He was looking forward to tonight. Divination was their last class of the day since they had a free hour next. After an hour of predicting grim futures, Harry and Ron went to meet Hermione by Hagrid's Hut. He was on vacation so he had left Fang in their care.
"Where's Draco?"
Hermione asked when they reached her. They explained what was going on. Hermione seemed pleased with this.
"We missed just hanging out the three of us." Hermione commented.
"So what shall we do?" Harry asked.
"Let's take care of fang and then head up to the common room." Ron suggested.
They fed and gave water to Fang and then headed towards Gryffindor tower. They settled around the fireplace.
"So how are things going for you two? Any plans for kids soon?" Hermione and Ron blushed.
"We've talked about it and we're thinking of waiting until school ends."
"Yeah. Hermione wants to work in the medical department at the ministry and well you know I'm going to be an auror with you. We want to have some money so we can support a family. But if a year is soon the yes."
Ron laughed. Harry smiled. They made a cute couple. He hoped their family would be as happy as Mrs. Weasley's. Harry wondered what his family would be like. He shook his head. There was really plenty of time to think of that later. They talked some more and then they headed back to their respective rooms. When Harry got back to his rooms, Draco wasn't back yet. Harry shrugged and went into the study to finish the last two inches on his potions easy. Just as he finished he heard Draco come into the study. Harry turned to face Draco who was leaning against the doorway.
"Have a good time?"
"Yes. I've missed a lot not talking to Pansy and Theo. We got caught up though. I have to keep up with them. Wouldn't want to think that I get married and neglect my friends.
"I'm sure they understand. Besides you're not the type to leave your friends behind."
"Thanks. How was your afternoon?"
"Fun. Talked with Ron and 'Mione. Then got beat at chess several times." Harry laughed.
"I should teach you some tricks."
"No one can beat Ron."
"We shall see. Well I'm heading off to bed."
"Alright. Good night. Be up in a few."
"Oh I almost forgot. Theo and Pansy invited us to their rooms Thursday evening after dinner."
"What?"
"I've spent some time with you and your friends. We figured it was your turn."
"Oh well alright then."
Draco nodded and left the room. Harry put his head on the table. He wasn't sure how to handle those two, although it seemed like Nott accepted him, but Parkinson? Oh well. He guessed it was just another adventure for him to overcome and besides…it was only fair.
Author's Note: Please review! Hope you enjoyed the chapter! What will the Slytherins say to Harry? First quidditch match next chapter and a Halloween party ^^ Trick or Treat =)