AN: I didnt realize how short my chapters are. They look longer on my phone, but when I look at them on a computer, its almost embarrassing in its briefness. I apologize and I hope you dont mind. I also knows this is late. *hangs head*

He was home.

That was Harry's first thought as they arrived at Hogwarts. He loved his job, and his house, but this place would always be significantly more special to him. He, Ron, and Hermione made their way to the Great Hall, which was breathtaking as usual. One side of the room was filled with circular tables covered in gold and silver tablecloths. The other side was clear for dancing and the band was warming up. The walls were covered in paintings done by various artists depicting scenes from the final battle. An auction would take place later in the night. Looking up at the ceiling, the sky outside was a brilliant orange streaked with pink as dusk settled in.

"Hello dears."

The trio turned as Minerva McGonagall bustled over.

"Hello." They all repeated in unison. She gave them each a hug in turn before going and greeting the other guests.

Suddenly, Ginny popped up beside them.

"Hello, Gin. How have you been?" Harry asked.

"Fantastic! I actually just needed to speak to Ron for a moment. Do you mind?"

"Not at all. Hermione, want to take a practice spin on the dance floor?" Hermione agreed and let Harry lead her over, her arm tucked in his.

"If he wasnt gay, id be jealous of all the time he spends with my wife." muttered Ron.

"Well, apparently there isnt reason to fear, as she isnt bleach blonde and an ignorant git." Ginny spoke lowly turning towards her brother. "What are we going to do about Harry and Malfoy?"

"Harry isnt thinking clearly. After the ball is over, he'll throw himself back into work and forget about Malfoy. The ball is what reminds him of him. But once its over, he wont have any more reminders. Nobody even knows where Malfoy is."

Ginny's eyes widened and she became very still. "I do."

"What? How would you know?" Ron tried to ask, but Ginny's focus was on a point over his shoulder. He turned to see Narcissa Malfoy walking through the doors to the Great Hall, hand tucked into the arm of a stunning blonde man in elegant dress robes that could only be-

"Bloody hell."

"Draco, Narcissa, I am thrilled that you both are here!" McGonagall exclaimed upon seeing them. She hugged Narcissa and took Draco by the shoulders. Despite having a good three or four inches on the woman, Draco still felt like a child under McGonagall's gaze.

"You have grown into an exquisite young man Mr. Malfoy. No doubt."

"Thank you Professor."

"I am not your professor any longer, please call me Minerva."

"Alright, Minerva, then it's only fair..." Draco trailed off. His heart clenched tight as he seen a messy black head twirling a beautiful young woman on the dance floor. The woman was Hermione Granger, of course. He had seen her picture on the covers of popular potions magazines. She had made huge advancements in the field. Her dance partner could only be Harry, although he wouldve recognized that hair anywhere, even without her help.

Minerva and Narcissa shared a knowing look.

Draco coughed. "Im sorry. It's only fair that you call me Draco."

"Of course Draco dear. Now why dont you run along and mingle while I chat with your mother. Im sure you'll recognize some of your old classmates here tonight." She gave him a gentle push towards Harry's direction. Subtle, that one.

"Undoubtedly." he muttered. Alright Draco, he thought. This is why youre here. To put the past at rest once and for all. The song ended and as Harry led Hermione off the floor, Draco fell into step behind them.

"Hello, Potter."

Harry turned and Draco's breath caught. It had been so long, oh so long, since he had seen those emerald eyes burning with such intensity. And looking at him. I am so fucked, he told himself.

"Draco..."

TBC

AN2: Again I apologize for the briefness. And the cliffie.