A/N: It's so good to be back!
Heres a new chapter… I should probably warn for a teensy bit of description of violence towards the end…
I hope you all enjoy this and don't forget to let me know what you think! x
"Where in Merlins name have you been Potter?"
Harry had just stepped into the common room when Draco bombarded him.
"I had detention, remember," answered Harry as he walked around Draco to join Hermione and Ron on the couch.
Draco followed and walked up the chess board that Harry had just only noticed, "Detention that ended hours ago."
Harry wasn't in the mood to have to explain himself, "What's it to you? And besides, how do you even know when my detention ended?"
Draco flushed and chose that moment to study the chess board with all the interest in the world.
Harry was about to comment on his behaviour when Hermione giggled.
"Draco would know about that because he happened to run into McGonagall in one of the corridors."
"One of the more secluded corridors to be particular- with company," added Ron.
Harry found his interest peaking as a small smile formed on his face, "Is that right now…"
"You Gryffindors got nothing better to do than to discuss my life?" snapped Draco.
Harry chuckled, "As I see it, you're in our territory."
"Right on Harry," agreed Ron, "I think he's just a little sour that McGonagall docked 15 points from Slytherin and sent Luna back to her common room to study for Transfiguration."
Draco rolled his eyes and sat cross legged on the floor beside the chess board while the others had a good laugh.
After they'd quietened down, Harry excused himself in favour of taking a shower.
He had just reached his dorm when he heard Draco speaking, "You didn't tell me where you were yet Potter."
Harry sighed, "And you still haven't told me what it is to you. Look Malfoy, I came up here for a shower so can I at least go on- with your blessing of course," the last part said in a mocking tone.
Draco took in a calming breath before he spoke, "Look Potter- Harry, I didn't come up here to fight. We need to talk about you and Severus; the ball is just a few weeks away and-"
"And you need Severus there with a date so that you can marry the girl of your choice," interrupted Harry, "I've heard it all before and I've also agreed to help you and that's exactly what I'm going to do."
"Need I remind you that you're going to need to be dating Severus for that to work?"
"I am."
"You are what?" asked Draco, confusion clear in his expression.
"Dating Severus," answered Harry.
Draco raised an eyebrow, "Who is?"
Harry heaved a sigh, "Oh for heavens- This is ridiculous! I am Draco, I'm dating Severus- We're together as in boyfriend and boyfriend, you get it yet?"
Dracos' mouth moved but no sounds were forthcoming and there remained silence until a gasp at the door sounded.
"Oh Harry, I'm so happy for you!"
Harry opened up his arms as Hermione came darting towards him with a winning smile on her face.
"You do realise that he's only doing this as an act right?" questioned Ron at the sight of his girlfriend in his best friends arms.
Hermione looked at Harry, her back to Draco and Ron and a knowing smile on her face, "I know exactly why he's doing it."
Harry stared right back at her and was about to question her when he thought better of it, instead he said, "Okay, now that you know, can I please go take my shower?"
Xxx
Harry predicted correctly; all through dinner he was bombarded with questions from his friends- now Luna had joined in as well- about the exact details of how he and Severus had got together. They kept the volume at a minimum, thankfully, but there were still the occasional squeals of delight from Hermione and Luna and every so often Harry looked up at the head table and found Severus watching them intently. He was sure that the older man knew what or more specifically who their topic of discussion was.
Now, in the silence of the night while waiting for sleep to claim him, Harry let go of all of his doubts and worries about their 'plan' and focussed solely on how amazing it felt to finally have someone he could call his own- even if their relationship is doomed from the onset.
Xxx
Harry stared down at the note in his hand; as promised, Severus had written to him letting him know which days of the week Harry could visit him in his quarters.
Today was one of those times; Severus had mentioned that he'd freed up his schedule so that only minor potions and marking needed his attention.
The door to the dorm burst open and in strolled Draco Malfoy.
"Morning Potter," greeted Draco.
Harry smiled weakly at Draco, "Do you even spend time in your own common room any more Malfoy?"
Draco snorted but otherwise didn't respond to Harrys' jibe, "So did you and Severus discuss the Ball yet?"
"Right to the point…" muttered Harry.
"As always, so?"
"We discussed it and Severus said that he isn't attending."
Draco looked as if he had a hard time understanding what Harry meant, "He said that he's not coming? Potter, you do know the entire plan depends on Severus' attendance at the ball, with you on his arm of course."
Harry glared at Draco, "Severus isn't a push over; he has his reasons for not wanting to attend and I guess it falls on me to convince him so don't for one moment question my effort in making this plan work! For Merlins sake, we've hardly been dating for 24 hours and we've already had our first fight!"
Draco lowered his head but not before Harry saw the look of utter amusement on his face. It was a scant 2 seconds before Harrys' hands were fisted in Dracos' robes and the Slytherin was backed up rather forcefully into the wall.
Dracos' grunt as his back hit the wall was lost in Harrys' rage as he started to speak again, "You think this is funny, do you Draco? You don't understand what I'm going to have to do and what it's going to take out of me to do this! I have to date your Godfather, a man who is our professor and a man who I only just managed to find common ground with after years of dislike and contempt. You're just going to have to sit back and romance your girlfriend while I lie my ass off just so you can have a good life!"
Harrys' hands loosened ever so slightly while he was speaking that Draco managed to throw Harry off, "What's gotten into you Potter? You've been ready to go off ever since you got back last night! And for your information, I know what I'm asking of you and I feel helpless that I cant directly help but in case you haven't notice, I've tried countless times to assist you where I can and I'd do anything to ease this entire thing for you if I could! Tell me Potter; tell me what you want me to do?"
Harry stared at Draco as the other wizard spoke and when Harry exhaled heavily, it seemed as if all of his anger drained out of him, "Can you be the one to break his heart for me Draco? You can't can you?" Harry sighed, "Last night after I left his quarters, it finally sunk in about what exactly I have to do and even though I'd never want to hurt anyone, I don't think it might have disturbed me this much if I hadn't realised what a great person Severus actually is…" Harry sat down heavily on his bed, "Draco, he doesn't trust people easily but he let me in and he did all those wonderful things for me today… Small things yes, but no one has ever taken the time to do those things for me before."
"Potter, I-"
"MALFOY!" Rons' voice drifted in through the closed door, "One of your slimy Slytherins is here for you."
Draco opened his mouth as if he was going to continue with his and Harrys' conversation but he instead said, "I'm sorry Harry, I wish things could be different but if you do want out there'll be no hard feelings."
Harry hardly had the time to nod in response before Draco was already out of the door.
Harry stood up and bent over to pick Severus' note which had fallen during his scuffle with Malfoy. He took one last look at it and prayed to all the Gods he knew that Severus would forgive him, for breaking his heart eventually and because Harry decided to avoid Severus for as long as he could.
Xxx
Harry couldn't be sure whether or not Malfoy had told the others about their conversation but he couldn't find it in him to bother since he managed to succeed in not only avoiding Severus on that Sunday but also most of his friends.
His meals were taken in the kitchen while everyone else was in the Great Hall and all his homework was done in the comfort of his bed.
When Monday arrived, Harry could hide no longer and so he attended his meals and spoke with his friends as normal- that's when he realized that Draco hadn't said a word about their conversation.
When Hermione had questioned Harry about his nausea from the previous day, he couldn't keep the surprise off his face but thankfully Malfoy had stepped in and 'reminded' Harry of how he'd asked Draco to bring him the necessary potions and tell Hermione and Ron not to worry as he was having a decent rest.
It was in that moment when Harry felt shame wash over him like no other emotion.
He knew that he had to apologize and saved it for later in the day when he'd most likely get Malfoy alone.
As for his schedule, Harry could have kissed Monday if it were a person as a full schedule with no DADA meant less time to be available and also less of Severus Snape. It was horrible to have to avoid the man like that, especially when he could feel the dark gaze tracking all of his movements but Harry needed time to think- he needed a plan of action that wouldn't require either him or Severus to get attached to one another so that when the final blow came, the damage would be minimal.
Xxx
"Draco."
Draco spun around from the shelf he was currently scanning and instantly his guard was up when he found himself alone.
Just as he drew his wand however, Harrys' head appeared out of thin air.
"Geez Potter, are you trying to give me heart problems?"
Harry chuckled as he slid the invisibility cloak off, "Sorry, I didn't want to be seen and I really needed to speak with you."
Draco nodded, "Your nausea sorted itself out then?"
Harry hung his head, "About that-"
Draco held up a hand, "I did what I thought was right. It wasn't my place to disclose our conversation and I could see that you needed time on your own. We're both just lucky that your friends are easy to convince now that they don't have to constantly worry about you dying at the hands of the Dark Lord."
It surprised Harry that Draco would actually make a joke about Voldemort but he didn't comment on it, "I'm glad that you did that and I also need to apologize. Everything that I said- I just shouldn't have gone so far and I'm sorry. I hope I didn't hurt you."
Draco gave a bark of laughter, "Potter, you shove like a little girl leaving aside hurting anyone."
Draco earned a smack on the shoulder for that, "So am I forgiven?"
"There's nothing to forgive," replied Draco as he held out his hand prompting a handshake.
Harry grasped the offered hand firmly, "Excellent!"
Xxx
Tuesday brought a new sense of dread for Harry: Double DADA.
Harry still hadn't come up with plan to seal the deal without any broken hearts and he was more than certain that Severus would be on his tail today about his scarcity since the weekend.
It was both a blessing and a curse that DADA was at the end of the day as Harry had more time before seeing Severus but more time also meant increased anxiety as the day wore on.
By lunch, Harry was sure that his nerves were getting the better of him.
A hand fell gently on his while he sat staring at his mostly untouched food.
"Harry," Harry looked up at Hermione, concern clear on her face. "Did you and Severus have a fight?"
That was the last question Harry expected to hear, "No, what makes you ask that?"
She sighed and shot a glance up at the head table, "It's just that Severus has been staring at you all through the meal and not just today. You've also hardly left the common room since you two started dating."
Harry couldn't help but chuckle, "Trust you to notice these things 'Mione. We're fine by the way… I just-" Harry paused and debated how good of an idea it was to tell Hermione. Speaking to Draco about the matter was entirely different- he stood to benefit out of this plan but Hermione had nothing on the line and could therefore provide more perspective.
"Hermione lets go for a walk before charms."
Xxx
"You're telling me that you're deliberately avoiding Severus so that you can spare his heart being broken?"
Harrys' shoulders drooped, "Well when you say it like that… Look I just need to find a way to get this relationship to progress without either of us becoming attached."
Hermione shook her head, "You can hardly call that a relationship at all then can you?"
Harry ignored Hermione, "I just need to find something else that will keep Severus interested in me, something that will hopefully be able to convince him to attend the ball with me."
Hermione narrowed her eyes, "Why do you sound like you already know what you're going to do?"
Harry threw both his hands in the air, "It's just come to me- it's absolutely insane but it's all I have and it's gonna have to work!"
"Harry-"
"Look Hermione, I don't want to hurt him and he's not going to get hurt if I give him the best few weeks of his life in other ways before the ball… It'll just be a relationship with benefits and once its over he'll see that he can get that sort of thing with anyone else and problem solved!"
Hermiones' eyes were as wide as saucers, "No Harry, problem not solved! That's the easiest way to create more problems- do you honestly believe that Severus wont be hurt if you- if you seduce him? And have you ever been with anyone before Harry?"
"You give me a solution then Hermione!" snapped Harry. "Look, we haven't made any promises to each other yet and people have sex and break up all the time and for your information, a man can learn!"
Hermione shook her head, "And what about you Harry, will you really be happy when this is all over?"
Harry sighed, "This is only my first boyfriend Hermione; of course I'm not going to be happy to have to establish a strictly physical relationship with him in order to get him to attend a ball of all things. Of course it's gonna leave me a little sad once the truth gets out and he realizes that he can get much better anywhere else but you know what, it wont matter because he wont be hurt."
Hermione closed her eyes for a few seconds to calm down and when she reopened them, Harry was staring at her expectantly.
"Harry, you don't have to do this," she held up a hand when it looked like Harry was going to interrupt, "Stop making things complicated and focus on your relationship. Even if all of this were to materialize, it still wouldn't work because both you and Severus are already too invested. Address the real problem Harry: you're afraid that you're going to fall-"
"Hermione don't say it, just don't. What do you want me to do then?"
"That's just it," said Hermione in exasperation, "don't do anything! Go along with it and just date him. Harry, you cant plan exactly what you want to happen in your relationship- it just happens and that's what makes it all the more special. So what if you two grow to care for one another, no one says that you need to end things after the ball. Yes, this is a completely mad way to begin a relationship but Harry, if you're happy with Severus then hold on to that happiness."
Harry was silent for a long while, "And what do I say once this plan is over? I'm going to have to tell him the truth Hermione and that's going to cause exactly what I'm trying to avoid."
Hermione worried her bottom lip between her teeth for a while before she answered, "I can't believe that I'm about to suggest this Harry because no relationship should be based on lies but it can't hurt Severus if he doesn't find out."
Harrys' eyebrows shot up, "You really think that we can keep it a secret?"
"It's just us that know about it and I doubt that we're really going to have cause to bring it up in the future."
Suddenly Hermione was enveloped in a tight embrace, "You really are brilliant Hermione! I'm glad I spoke to you about this!"
Hermione smiled weakly at Harry when they parted. Harry may have thought it to be the best advice ever but Hermione had never been more ashamed than now after offering out this particular course of action.
Xxx
When Harry stepped into the DADA classroom, he noticed that Severus was yet to arrive and so he took his seat to await the man.
Not five seconds later, Severus swept into the classroom in his usual fashion and immediately started giving out instructions for the day's lesson.
Harry noticed that not once had the mans' gaze lingered on him for longer than normal and Severus still seemed to glare at him as he usually did. Harry wasn't sure whether Severus was being indifferent because he was upset with Harry or whether the man simply was hard pressed on etiquette in the classroom.
Harry didn't complain though and decided to follow Severus' course of action and go on with the lesson.
Xxx
When the lesson for the day drew to a close, Severus provided feedback on their progress before dismissing the class.
He immediately went around his desk and took a seat as he started on his marking.
Harry decided then that yes, the man probably was furious with him.
Severus didn't look up as Harry walked past his desk and out of the classroom but his voice was clear when he said, "Mr Potter, remain behind please."
Harry quickly shot a look to his friends, nodding so that they knew to leave without him and then stood patiently watching Severus as he continued to mark while the last of the students left.
Finally when the door clicked shut, Severus looked up. He raised one eyebrow as if waiting for the answer to an unspoken question.
"Severus-" began Harry.
Severus drew his wand at that moment and cast a silencing spell and a locking spell on the door before he stood up and rounded his desk.
"Is something the matter Harry?"
Harry shook his head, "No, I'm just- I'm sorry for being so scarce recently."
Severus crossed both arms over his chest, "I waited for you on Sunday."
Guilt swept over Harry so strongly that he felt his knees buckle, "I- I wasn't feeling well. I'm sorry, I should have let you know but I had a full day yesterday so I couldn't see you then as well and is it okay if I came down today?"
Harry hadn't expected the last part to come out but he could see that Severus was disappointed in him and thought that that may be his ticket back into Severus' good books.
Severus shook his head, "Relax Harry, I'm not mad at you, the opposite in fact. Draco had been to my quarters on Sunday evening asking for something to settle an upset stomach. He said that you needed the rest and asked not be disturbed, hence I did not impose however I do wonder why you didn't tell me yourself."
Once more, Harry realised just how convincing of an act Draco had made the Sunday fiasco seem, "I didn't want to worry you and even though you're not angry I still want to say that I'm sorry…"
Severus reached out and cupped Harrys' cheek, "What are you doing to me Potter, I was mad with worry and then I felt the unmistakable symptoms of longing."
Harry chuckled, surprised at how fast it all went back to normal, "Longing for me I hope."
Severus smirked, "Why don't you decide."
And with that, Severus swept down and captured Harrys' lips in a heated kiss. There was the fierce tangle of tongues and the insistent tugging of teeth on lips as Severus stole Harrys' breath.
When they parted, Harry had a silly smile on his face.
"Definitely for me," said Harry with a happy sigh.
Severus leaned down again and placed a chaste kiss on Harrys' lips, "I'm afraid that our meeting times are going to have to change. I've seen the schedule for the final years' end of term testing and if you want good grades, you can't be coming down here on week nights."
Harry frowned, "Surely you don't mean to say that I can only see you after the tests are over?"
Severus seemed to pause in thought, "As much as the teacher in me suggests that that is an excellent plan, I am going to say that as long as your homework is up to date and you are well ahead in your studies, you may visit me on the weekends."
Harry slid one hand up Severus' chest and rested it on his shoulder, "And maybe between classes?"
Severus rolled his eyes, "Teenagers…"
Harry smacked Severus on the shoulder, "Hey! I'm 18 okay… so tonight is out then?"
Severus took Harrys' hand in his and entwined their fingers, "Unfortunately so," he placed a kiss on Harrys' hand before he let go again. "Now get going before your friends break down my door thinking I've pickled you for potions."
Harry laughed, "They know that I'll be fine with you."
Severus rounded his desk and took a seat once more, "Oh, so is that what your conversation was about at dinner the other night?"
Harry flashed Severus a wide grin, "I knew you were watching us! So I'll see you at dinner?"
Severus nodded, "Yes Harry."
Xxx
Harry knew that it would be exceptionally easy to follow Hermiones' advice and allow his and Severus' relationship to run its course but he also knew that he'd have to still convince the older man to accompany him to the ball and that was going to be no easy task.
Each day that passed brought Harry a day closer to the Ball and also served as a reminder of how little time he had to convince Severus.
Work started to pile on. The professors gave them extra homework, they still had studying to get through and Hermione had taken it upon herself to organise mock tests for them every few days- not even Draco was fool enough to refuse once Hermione was in full-on lecture mode.
Harry met Severus on both Saturday and Sunday in the weekend, however after the first weekend when Severus had found out that Harry had left his homework till Sunday night, Severus had ordered him to bring his homework with him on Saturdays to complete while Severus did his marking.
Harry noticed that Draco always asked about him and Severus and while the Slytherin never mentioned the ball, Harry knew that Draco was growing uneasy at the lack of response from Severus about his attendance.
Three weeks before the ball, Draco had suggested that they all go out to Hogsmeades' finest robe shop and purchase their attire for the Ball.
Harry made his way down to Severus' quarters that morning.
"Harry, isn't it rather early; not that I'm complaining of course."
Severus took Harrys' hand and led him into his office.
Harry tugged on their joined hands slightly so that Severus would halt, "Severus, I'm actually going to Hogsmeade today."
"Oh?"
"Draco asked us along so that we could all pick out robes for the Ball, and knowing him, it's probably going to take us all day."
Severus snorted, "Yes, Malfoys do have a certain standard that they strive to maintain."
Harry took a deep breath, "I was wondering whether you'd like to come with?"
Severus raised his eyebrows, "And tell me what would I do with a bunch of students the entire day?"
Harry rolled his eyes, "I thought that maybe I could stay behind until later and we could go shop together."
Severus gave Harry a calculating look, "Harry, I haven't changed my mind about the Ball."
Harry refused to allow his shoulders to droop in disappointment. Instead he gave Severus the most playful look he could manage, "I'm quite sure you'll change your mind when you see the robes that I've had my eyes on…"
Severus placed his hands on Harrys' hips and pulled him closer, "Mr Potter, I'd much rather have you return as early as possible from the Ball so I might have the pleasure of tearing those robes off you."
Harrys' eyes widened and he pulled away from Severus enough so that he could see the older wizards' smirk, "Severus, behave!"
Severus gave a bark of laughter before he leant down and lightly nipped at Harrys' ear, "One day Harry," was whispered into his ear before Severus pulled back again.
Harry tried and failed to suppress a shiver at Severus' words. He was startled out of his own thoughts when Severus spoke again.
"Now I do believe that you are keeping Mr Malfoy waiting."
Harry wound his arms around Severus' neck and held him in a close embrace, "You really won't come?"
Severus' arms wrapped around Harrys' back as he buried his nose in Harrys' hair, "Not this time brat."
They stayed that way for a few moments until Harry placed a kiss on the side of Severus' neck and slowly let go, "I'll see you later then."
Severus nodded and Harry smiled before he turned and made his way out of the office. He stopped when he heard Severus say, "And don't forget to bring your homework." Without turning around Harry called out, "Mood-killer." And he could have sworn that he heard Severus laugh and say, "Brat."
Xxx
"Harry."
Harry turned around and saw Draco jogging to catch up with him.
"Draco, what's wrong?"
Draco shook his head, "Nothing, I just wanted to talk."
"I was heading to the library, can we talk there?"
"Great," said Draco as he fell into step with Harry.
Once they had found a table, Draco spoke. "I know that I shouldn't be interfering since you're handling it but has Severus yielded yet?"
Harry sighed and lowered his head, "I'm trying, and I really am. I've been dropping hints and even going right out and discussing the Ball but he's having none of it."
Draco pinched the bridge of his nose, "Two more weeks Harry and then its time to deliver. Should I talk to him?"
Harry looked up sharply, "Don't you even dare Draco. I won't have him thinking that I'm putting my friends up to the job."
"I'm his Godson and this is after all a Malfoy Ball; he wouldn't find it suspicious if I give it a shot. It can be me on behalf of father, he'll understand that."
"And you don't think that he's going to find it suspicious that all of a sudden everyone wants him to attend the Ball?"
"He's attended it every year so far-"
"And he simply doesn't want to anymore," reasoned Harry. "There's a reason Severus doesn't want to go and forcing him is just going to make him more stubborn."
Draco glared at Harry, "The time to let him come willing is fast passing Harry, and if you don't want me or father meddling, you're going to have to get a move on."
Harry ground his teeth together but kept his silence, even when Draco rose and laid a hand on his shoulder before leaving.
Xxx
The final week of the term had finally arrived and every moment of the day required either for them to take a test or to study for one.
The previous weekend of studying had exhausted them all but there wasn't any time to relax just yet.
Harrys' previous weekend visit with Severus had turned into a full on study session with Harry dragging all of his books down to the dungeons with him and allowing Severus to quiz him on the different subjects and do some last minute tutoring on the things that were problematic for Harry.
On Saturday night, Harry had fallen asleep with his head on Severus' lap while he was reading up on advanced charms.
He'd barely been asleep for 10 minutes when he felt a kiss being pressed to his brow and Severus' hand gently threading through his hair. If the man had noticed that Harry had awoken, he said nothing and Harry was more than content to snuggle in further and allow the hand to lull him back to sleep.
Severus had woken Harry a while later to say that he needed to return to his dorm before McGonagall went on her round of corridor patrol. It took a lot for Harry to be able to prevent himself from asking to spend the night but he also knew that they weren't ready for that yet- especially not in the week of end-of-term tests.
Sunday had been a little different; while had arrived once more to Severus' quarters with all of his books- albeit a little late having overslept- this time Severus had said that he needed an early night if he wanted to wake at all for his tests the next day; and so Harry had been sent back to his dorm before he'd fallen asleep again.
Looking back, Harry was glad that Severus had asked him to get some rest as he needed all the energy he could muster for the first part of his transfiguration and charms tests.
He dreaded the NEWTS at the end of the year more than anything else wondering how things could get much worse for his final exams when nothing could seem to get any worse than the prep tests they were currently doing.
Thankfully, all of Harrys' friends seemed to be holding up. Harry had expected nothing less from Hermione but he glad to see that for once Ron hadn't come out of his tests looking like he was ready to jump off a cliff.
There wasn't much time to meet with Draco and Luna but for the little time that they did meet, Harry was reassured that they were holding up as well.
Xxx
Draco spotted Luna at the lake with a group of girls from Ravenclaw.
He slowly crept up behind her before wrapping his arms around her from behind and picking her up to spin her around a few times.
They both laughed as Draco spun them around a few more times before placing Luna back on the ground. A horrible dizziness swept over them as they used one another for support.
When Dracos' vision corrected itself, he noticed that the Ravenclaw girls were still standing around- some were giggling amongst their peers while others looked at Draco the way one might look at another after a generous amount of amortentia.
Draco quickly grabbed Lunas' hand and steered her a bit further away from the swooning girls.
"Draco, you could have given me some warning," said Luna as she smiled sweetly at her boyfriend.
Draco took her face in his hands, "Where's the fun in that love?"
He leaned down and took his sweet time tasting Lunas' lips, "I've missed this… Sorry for not being around often, the tests were tough."
Luna placed her hands over Dracos', "That's nothing you should be apologizing for but it does feel great doesn't it- to be over with studying for a while?"
Draco guided Luna down onto the grass, "Brilliant feeling…"
Luna laid her head on Dracos' shoulder, "I can't wait to meet your parents Draco," she paused then spoke again, "To meet them as your girlfriend I meant…"
Draco looked at the blonde hair cascading over his shoulder and sighed, "Luna, Potters' not making any progress with Severus and if-"
Luna sat upright, "Harry is an excellent friend Draco; he knows how important this is and he won't break his promise," she stared off into the distance for a while, "He's an amazing guy…"
Draco looked to the side and placed a hand on Lunas' thigh, "And should I be worried that this 'amazing guy' has my girlfriend daydreaming about him?"
There was a burst of laughter suddenly and Luna shifted over so she could lay her head on Dracos' lap, "I wasn't thinking of him silly, just the things he's done for me in the past that shaped my opinion of him."
Draco rolled his eyes then smiled to make sure that Luna knew he wasn't upset, "Saint Potter…"
Just then, an owl that Draco recognised instantly landed near his hand. He carefully took the parchment and apologized to the owl about not having owl treats.
"It's okay Draco, I have some with me," said Luna as she extended her hand and allowed the owl to eat it's fill before taking off.
Draco paused as he opened up the parchment, "Did you just happen to have owl treats on your person or…"
"I carry them with me in case I happen upon a hungry owl…"
Draco nodded slowly and then flashed a wide grin hoping he hadn't offended Luna.
He read the note once and there wasn't a need for a second time, "Luna, I'm sorry but I'm just going to need to be somewhere for a while. I promise I'll make it up to you later today, okay?"
Luna gave Draco a peck on the lips, "It's alright; I'll see you later."
Xxx
Draco walked into the Hogs Head and immediately strode to the table right at the back.
"Ah Draco, you look well."
"Father," Draco nodded in greeting before he took a seat.
Lucius smirked at his son, "Tut tut Draco, don't say you're still angry from the last time we saw each other."
Draco glared at his father, "The last time we saw each other you gave me an ultimatum."
Lucius raised an eyebrow, "And that's exactly why I'm here. Draco I'm afraid that I cannot linger today but I called you here to tell you that I hope you remember our agreement."
Draco inclined his head, "It isn't something I could easily forget father."
Lucius nodded, "Good because you should know that Astoria and her parents have confirmed their attendance to the ball and they are very much looking forward to meeting you."
Dracos' nostrils flared but he remained silent.
Lucius spoke again, "I hope you're not giving your Uncle Severus too much of a rough time," when Draco looked up suddenly Lucius laughed, "You're a Malfoy and we don't take anything lying down… I know that you're probably up to something right now and I don't even care what that is but Draco listen to me now and listen well- if Severus does not show up at the Ball with a date on his arm, a willing one mind you, don't even bother showing up at the Ball with a date of your own or I promise you Draco, I will get you and Astoria married right there and then school be damned!"
The smirk on Lucius' face had vanished throughout his speech leaving him with a nasty expression but as he rose from his seat, he seemed to remember himself and plastered a proud look on his face.
Dracos' entire body thrummed with magic; he knew that if he moved, he was likely to lash out at his father and that would never be forgiven so he remained calm and bid farewell to his father as neutrally as he could.
Only when Lucius left did Draco stand up and make his way outside. He had one thought on his mind: He and Severus were going to have to have a talk.
Xxx
Severus sighed and slammed his hands on his desk, "Damn it Draco, you're here for Potter aren't you?"
Draco refused to jump at the resounding bang, "No I'm here for myself! I need you there with me Uncle Severus… For Merlins sake, you're my Godfather; you're supposed to be there for me and support me-"
"My 'support' means nothing in the face of Lucius' decisions!"
"It means everything!"
"I can't believe that Potter would put you up to try to get me someplace I do not want to go!"
Draco raised his hands in the air in exasperation, "Potter, that's all you know these days! That's why you can't see when your Godson needs you-"
"You are crossing you're boundaries Draco."
"Do you want me married off to a girl I don't love?"
Severus rounded his desk and walked over to Draco, "It's funny that Potter asked me the same thing just the other day when he was trying to convince me. He asked me if I'd rather see my Godson married off into a loveless marriage than get rid of my pride to attend a ball!"
Draco huffed in anger, "And he was right in asking because that's what it is, isn't it, pride?"
Just then a knock sounded on the door, "We are done here Draco; you will get out and not raise this matter again!"
Severus dragged Draco to the door by the back of his collar only letting go to pull open the door.
"Severus-"
Severus' glare caused Harry to stop short.
Draco let out an undignified yelp when he was once again caught by the collar and shoved out the door past Harry.
"Exchanging one fool for another," was all Severus muttered before he grabbed Harry in a similar fashion, all but dragging the Gryffindor into his office before slamming the door on Dracos' face.
Harry was thrown onto a chair before Severus started to pace, fingers pinching the bridge of his nose.
"Sending Draco in here to do what you cannot is the fastest way to earn your ticket out of my life Mr Potter."
"But I didn't-" tried Harry.
"I spent years attending Malfoy Christmas parties all in the name of pleasing those I served."
Harry was about to protest when he realised that Severus was probably about to offer up the reason for his reluctance and so Harry kept his mouth shut and listened.
"The Dark Lord loved torturing and what better time of year to have the most fun and Albus- he loved information; he had a reason to, yes. No one knew when the Dark Lord would let out a vital piece of information and so someone had to be there to make note of it… Two masters Potter, I served them both and year after year the horrors became worse. First it was an innocent muggle brought to the Dark Lord as a Christmas present to do with as he pleased, then it was women who the death eaters toyed with until she begged for death and then his new obsession… molesting women while their family watched.
"He asked me to participate on the last Ball I attended… 'Severus, you won't just be standing on the sidelines this year,' he said. I threw a few mild curses just to please him but it clearly wasn't enough and I clearly wasn't a rapist so he used the cruciatus on me all night long… surprised me when I least expected it that night."
All the while when Severus spoke, he paced continuously in front of Harry; now he stopped and looked right into Harrys' eyes and that's when Harry saw that Severus wasn't just speaking of his experiences but rather, he was reliving them.
When Severus spoke again, Harry wished that he'd never brought up the entire issue of attending the Ball.
"How do you expect me to go there and have a jolly evening with others when every corner of the Malfoy mansion holds a memory of blood, sweat and tears experienced during my time under the Dark Lord? Granted, you didn't know but Harry in all the time you have known me, have I ever not had a reason for my actions?"
Harry wanted to say that no, he knew there was a reason and he was an idiot for pushing it but Severus went on and Harry knew that the man didn't want any answers, he just needed to vent.
"Draco must have had an idea though, yet he still came in here and did your bidding-"
This time Harry didn't remain quiet, "It wasn't me Severus! I told you that I didn't send Draco… he wanted you at the Ball and when I said that you weren't attending he asked if he should come here and speak to you and every single time I said no! I'm sorry Severus, I'm sorry that you have all these terrible memories and I never would have brought any of this up if I'd known… believe me…"
Severus closed his eyes and lowered his head, "You're not cruel Harry, I believe you… but you must leave now…"
Harry was so stuck on the fact that Severus believed him that he didn't catch the last part until Severus hoisted him off his chair and led him to the door.
"Wait- wait Severus where are you- no look I'm sorry… please…"
Once Severus had the door open he turned to Harry, "Just for now until the ball is over. You may come back on the same night however I don't want to hear another word of this affair. Leave now Harry or you'll miss dinner."
Harry shook his head, "No I wanna stay here with you; please Severus-"
Severus caught Harry by the shoulders and squeezed slightly, "Harry, get yourself together. It's just for now… I have things that I need to deal with- alone. Go!"
Harry locked gazes with Severus for several seconds before allowing his eyes to drift all over that face he so admired. He turned away once he caught glimpse of Severus' lips and allowed Severus to shut the door on him with no protests leaving him.
Xxx
By the time Harry arrived to dinner, all of his friends were there- including Draco.
Harry noticed that Draco seemed just as shaken as him; the others were pestering the Slytherin for answers but they only received little nods and shakes of the head as answers.
Severus hadn't arrived at the head table as yet and Harry felt guilt wash over him at the thought that the man might be starving himself in his rooms while he remained upset.
The only available seat at the Gryffindor table was opposite Draco and Harry gladly took it.
The moment that Harrys' backside hit the bench was the moment Draco started to apologize.
"Harry, I'm so sorry. I know that I shouldn't have been down there but there was so much going through my mind that Severus seemed the most appropriate person-"
Harry held up his hand to stop Draco and he felt the tension around him and his friends go up a notch.
"I'm not even going to solely lay the blame on you Draco; we both might have just ruined any chance of Severus coming to the ball," there was a light murmur that broke out and Harry glared around to stop it, "but that doesn't mean that your plan has to fail. Draco, I made you a promise and I swear by Merlin that I will keep it whether Severus is by my side or not."
"Harry," started Ron, "you don't mean to say that you're going to take on Lucius over his decision right?"
Harry looked at Hermione and she gave him a small nod; he turned his gaze to Luna and he decided that he'd never seen her so panicked in his life.
Harry turned back to Ron and answered, "As it appears, that's exactly what I'm going to do."
Only when Harry had stopped talking did he realise how close they had all huddled up in order to keep their conversation private. Harry sat up straight and in an instant he felt like he was being watched.
Harry looked up the head table and noticed that Severus was there watching him. He looked like he had been there for a while now and Harry decided that he absolutely loathed the way Severus was looking at him. It was a cold, hard glare and it made Harry go on a guilt trip like no other.
Harry looked away in favour of downing as much of his food as he could seeing that his appetite had diminished and when he was done and ready to leave the table, he noticed that Severus was once again staring at him, the disappointment clear in his eyes.
Harry felt physical pain at the thought that his own actions had caused Severus to relive some of the most painful years of his life.
He took one last look at the man glaring at him, committing that look to memory for it was one he never wanted to see again before he stood and exited the Great Hall.
He would do everything in his power to make this plan work and then he'd make up with Severus…
I hate it when he stares…
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Next Chapter: The Malfoy Christmas Ball ^,^