A Gentleman's Gentleman, ch 14
Warnings: some smexy/fluff stuff
Notes: I am so happy with all the feedback and lovely comments! Thank you all.
Beta: A big thank you to Hidden Lily and thanks for suggesting payback for Zabini and all your helpful comments!
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Chapter 14: Revenge
It wasn't until breakfast was almost over that Draco heard the delivery owl tapping at the window. He got up and opened the window. Since it was a pre-paid subscription he shooed the owl away after taking the Daily Prophet from its grip. He unrolled the paper and stared at the headline.
Harry, quietly sipping his tea, failed to notice Draco's stiff posture. Only when Draco sat down heavily in the chair across from him did Harry look up and frown.
'Surely Zabini didn't get them to print anything so soon?' Draco, his face a blank, silently handed the paper over. Harry took it, his mouth dropping open when he read the headline.
The Malfoy Scandal Revealed: Malfoy Heir working as Lord Potter's valet while in a questionable relationship. Full story on pages 3, 4, and 5.
Harry quickly perused the lead paragraph.
An anonymous, but reliable source, has a strange story to tell about the Malfoy family's sudden disappearance some years ago, as well as Draco Malfoy's apparently recent return to Britain. The young heir has been working as Lord Potter's valet, under the name Draco Spinks. Most shocking, however, is the details of their relationship, which was described as "entirely inappropriate."
Harry glanced up from the paper. Draco was tight-lipped and staring at the table. Harry carefully folded away offending article and stood. Draco's gaze lifted with him.
'I'm going,' Harry stated.
'What?'
'I'm going to confront Zabini,' Harry clarified, moving towards the door. Draco jumped up and grabbed his arm.
'Harry, don't make things worse-' he began, but was interrupted by Harry pulling him in and kissing him until his head spun.
'I am going to confront him, and then I am going to visit my solicitor, and maybe the editor of the Daily Prophet. Finally, I am going to visit a few friends. Things will work themselves out. I promise.' Draco saw the fierce look in his lover's eyes and knew it was pointless to argue. He sighed and followed Harry out of the house, taking the lead when Harry asked him to show the way to Zabini's townhouse.
Upon arriving Draco knocked a little more forcefully than strictly necessary. The house-elf answered the door. Draco strode in just as if it was any other day.
'Master is not receiving visitors today,' the elf grumbled.
'He will receive us,' Draco said without stopping. Harry followed, glancing around curiously at the ostentatious décor. They headed up the stairs, only to stop short as the same house-elf appeared on the top step. Draco drew himself up to his full height. 'Tell your master Draco Malfoy wishes to see him.' The elf, still grumbling, disappeared. Draco did not wait for it to return, but headed straight for their usual sitting room. He opened the double doors wide. Zabini was sprawled elegantly on one of the chaise lounges. He grinned upon seeing his guest. The elf was standing in a deep bow beside him, but vanished just as Draco entered.
'Draco! You've come to your senses, I-' Zabini stopped mid-sentence as he realised Draco had not come alone. He tensed and regarded Harry warily, rising slowly as Harry came to stand in front of Draco. Slowly, a sneer appeared on Zabini's face. 'You've brought your master to defend your honour? You realise you actually need honour for that to work? You can't do anything to me, Potter. I told the truth and nothing more.'
'We also have a truth to tell, Zabini,' Harry spat, barely containing his anger at the sight of the man who has blackmailed his Draco. The thought of the two of them together made his blood boil. The fact that Zabini was ridiculously good-looking did not help matters. 'The blackmail, for one.'
'You can't prove anything!'
'We have Draco's memories-'
'Memories can be fabricated!' Zabini was clearly nervous, but he had a point. Considering the circumstances, Harry doubted they would win over the Wizengamot.
'I have no intention of involving the authorities, at present,' Harry said with surprising calm. He took a step forward and grinned when he noticed Zabini flinch. They both knew Zabini had been a poor student, with his future already secured. Harry could very easily best him. 'I am here to make sure you stay away from Draco from now on, and to inform you that I will destroy you, one way or another.' Zabini struggled to maintain his sneer, but he managed it.
'A threat, Potter? How plebeian of you. Are you going to punch me like a muggle as well?' Harry's wand was out faster than the other wizards could see, pointing right at Zabini's heart.
'A curse will work much better, don't you agree?'
'You wouldn't- you wouldn't dare!' Harry was just about to retort, when a hand on his outstretched arm stopped him.
'Harry, don't do anything you'll regret.' Zabini watched the interaction suspiciously, but visibly relaxed when Harry lowered his wand.
'If you come near us again, you'll find yourself unable to walk.' With that, Harry ushered Draco out. Zabini watched them go. He was just about to get the last word in when Harry turned back the moment he was about to leave. He flicked his wand and Zabini doubled over, falling to his knees. There was a burning sensation in balls. He gritted his teeth, tears forming in his eyes.
'What did you do?!' He cried, but Harry was already halfway down the stairs. He would discover later that he would get erections at most inopportune times, but never when he actually desired them. This was a nifty little spell Harry's former Defence teacher had mentioned during one of their chats. Originally invented by Harry's godfather, it was designed to wear off eventually, but not before much humiliation and frustration had resulted from it. Harry thought it a fitting beginning for his revenge.
XXX
Draco was tense as he walked beside Harry down the street. He knew the man had cast a spell just as they left, but he didn't feel like asking Harry what spell. He was about to ask where they were going next, but before he could he was grabbed roughly, dragged into the nearest alley and pushed up against the wall.
Any indignant protests died on his lips as Harry claimed them. The onslaught was merciless and Draco felt his knees start to weaken. This was certainly not what respectable gentlemen did, but he was hardly going to complain. Harry pulled away abruptly, leaving Draco wide-eyed and a little rumpled.
'I never want to imagine you with someone else again,' Harry muttered before kissing Draco a second time. 'Zabini is lucky I didn't hex his bits right off.'
'I never knew you had such a temper,' Draco said breathlessly. Harry blinked rapidly and stepped back, making a half-hearted attempt at straightening Draco's collar.
'I do, I'm afraid. I was known to be rather hot-headed in school. I took it out on the Quidditch pitch mostly. I'm sorry-'
'Don't apologise,' Draco cut in. 'I-… I'm not one to judge anyway. I had quite the temper in my youth as well, when I was spoiled, arrogant-'
'I guess we're well suited, then,' Harry said with a smile, which Draco returned, before Harry's eyes darkened. 'I want you to go home while I visit a few friends. Can you do that?' While Draco hated being left out, he knew it would be best if Harry went alone. 'It's not that I object to being seen with you.'
'I know,' Draco assured him. 'Will you be home for dinner at least?'
'I'll try,' Harry said, 'but you don't have to cook.' Draco leaned in and pressed a kiss to Harry's soft lips.
'You'll feel much better if you have something to look forward to, like a well-prepared meal for two…?' Harry smiled and kissed Draco in reply. He walked out of the alley, but not without several glances back at his lover. Draco made sure his collar was straight before leaving for home.
XXX
Harry went to Aunt Minnie first and was surprised at his reception. She scolded him for letting her make a fool of herself over the years when it had been clear to him that he would never settle for any of the witches she suggested. Harry had been rather embarrassed, but had asked her for her support, which she gave, though not without cautioning him about what lay ahead.
He knew Ron would be at work, so he decided to go straight to his solicitor to get some much needed advice. The firm had represented the Potter family for generations, and Harry had seen no reason to end this relationship.
Judging by the way Harry was immediately shown to the man's office, he rather suspected that they had been expecting him.
Daniel Prewett, a distant relative of Molly Weasley, was a very pragmatic, realistic and no-nonsense sort of fellow. He prided himself on championing for justice and was of that very rare breed in contemporary wizarding society and politics: a pureblooded, middle-aged wizard with a belief in equal rights for everyone, human or otherwise, while at the same time maintaining a respectable reputation. Harry was therefore hopeful, if not entirely confident, that he would still receive respect from this man.
Daniel, wearing simple, yet elegant auburn robes, rose from behind his desk when Harry entered. He had short cut and neat brown hair, and a somewhat boyish face belying his age.
'Lord Potter! Thank Merlin you've arrived, I was just about to Floo call you-'
'Please, I've told you to call me Harry,' the young Lord insisted, while taking the man's hand, inwardly sighing in relief at the greeting. Daniel waved away the comment and steered his guest into a comfortable chair before resuming his seat.
'Explain to me everything that has occurred between you and Zabini,' he requested.
'There is nothing between me and Zabini,' Harry stated, 'unless you count the fact that he has been blackmailing my lover.'
'Your-…' Daniel blinked a few times. Harry tensed, realising the man had not actually considered if the story was true on that account. 'I see…' He seemed to visibly shake himself. 'Blackmail, you say? Do you have any proof?'
'Only Mr. Malfoy's word against his, I'm afraid,' Harry said regrettably. 'But it was not money he was after…' he let the sentence hand and Daniel quickly caught on, his eyes widening.
'Good gracious,' he muttered.
'Do you think there is anything to be done?' Harry asked. Daniel pursed his lips, a habit he had when deep in thought. Harry waited patiently until the man spoke.
'You could ignore it, leave the country-'
'No, I want him destroyed. I want to be able to live here without fear of him or anyone else,' Harry said. Daniel scrutinised him for a long moment.
'Fight,' he said. 'If you ignore the story it will be seen as confirmation, but also of shame. Drag him before the Wizengamot. Let the truth come out, all of it. I happen to know Zabini is desperate for a marriage to alleviate his current financial troubles. He would not want to be implicated in something like this, but probably thinks you won't want things dragged out either. Prove him wrong.' Harry smiled at the man's enthusiasm.
'Thank you,' he said sincerely. Again, Daniel waved the comment away.
'This issue is a hippogriff that's been standing in our sitting room for too long,' he said, shaking his head. 'People are more accepting than they care to admit publicly, I believe. Unfortunately there are a number of people in the Ministry who are trying at this very moment to sneak legislation through. We need a case like this to bring public attention to the matter.'
'I had no idea,' Harry said, worry creeping into his voice.
'Are you truly willing to go all the way on this?'
'If you think we have a chance…'
'I'll be honest, Lord Potter, with the current assembly of witches and wizards on the Wizengamot, the climate is rather conservative…'
'What about Zabini? Anything else we can do?'
'I'll do some digging, alright?' Harry nodded.
'What about the blackmail?'
'We need Mr. Malfoy to come down to the Ministry and make an official report. Do you want me to represent him?' Harry nodded. 'Excellent. And he is in agreement?'
'We have both decided we want to fight to be able to live in peace, together. We love each other very much.' The barest hint of a blush appeared on Daniel's cheeks. He coughed, but nodded in understanding.
'Good, I will speak with the Creature/Human Right's Group I'm familiar with. They will probably want to get involved. I will also write up a statement for the Daily Prophet, which I hope you will sign later. You should visit any close friends you have in high places and get their support early. And finally…,' Daniel leaned a bit forward, 'I would recommend a few well placed… investments.'
'What do you mean?'
'If you were to promise your involvement in other issues, with your title and family fortune supporting you, it is more likely more Wizangamot members will give you their support in turn.'
'Will you make inquiries?'
'I will arrange a few meetings,' Daniel promised. Harry thanked the man again and they worked out a few more details, including which friendships Harry should pay particular attention too. It seemed Harry would be going into public life after all.
He wrote off letters to the Weasley family and his personal friends, asking them for their acceptance and patience. He then sent friendly letters to the Changs and other families that had been long linked with the Potters, all asking for their continued friendship and support for his upcoming struggle.
After all this Harry was quite exhausted. He had not eaten since his small lunch at Aunt Minnie's. He finally bid Mr. Prewett goodbye and went home directly.
'Draco?' he called as he entered the house. He frowned when he wasn't greeted as usual. He sniffed the air and recognised Draco's cooking, feeling somewhat gladdened at that. He hung up his coat and followed the scent, finding Draco putting down a large dish on the kitchen table. He looked up when Harry entered and smiled.
'I thought we might eat here, to dispel any sense of formality.'
'Sounds perfect,' Harry breathed, coming forward. Draco's brow furrowed slightly.
'You look tired,' he commented.
'I'm exhausted, to be honest. This is going to be difficult,' he said seriously.
'You're worth it,' Draco whispered and Harry's breath hitched even as Draco blushed slightly. Harry reached out and pulled his lover in, while Draco reached around Harry's neck. Their lips met hungrily, yet softly. Both enjoying the sensations, but neither of them wanting things to get too engaging. After a while they parted and sat down to enjoy their dinner. They ate quietly since Harry did not want to discuss things when they were having a nice meal together.
Afterwards Harry insisted on doing all the dishes himself, since Draco was no longer his valet. Draco appeared slightly shocked and reluctant at first, but Harry managed to persuade him out of the kitchen, saying he would be right up in just a bit.
With magic it only took a few minutes. Harry went upstairs, wondering if Draco had understood that Harry wanted him to sleep in his bed tonight as well, and every night thereafter…
He need not have worried. Draco lay invitingly under the covers, though he wasn't trying to be seductive. In fact he was reading a book – one of those books. He glanced at Harry, but continued reading as his former employer undressed. Harry could hardly keep his emotions contained at the sheer joy he felt seeing Draco in his bed, looking so at ease and at home. It felt right. He slid under the covers and was very pleased when Draco at once set his book aside and turned to face Harry.
'What have you been reading?' Harry asked.
'Well, I had to find something to do while you were out all day,' Draco said reasonably, a hand sneaking up the firm chest. Harry snaked his own arm around Draco's waist.
'Hmmm, and did your reading spark any ideas?' Harry moved in, nuzzling Draco's hair and kissing his cheek.
'A few… how was your day?'
'Let's talk more later, or in the morning. I need lots of sleep before our fight begins, and you… need lots of you,' Harry breathed, kissing along Draco's jaw before capturing his lover's lips.
Harry could not believe how delicious and heavenly it felt kissing Draco. He could not believe he was allowed! He would certainly never tire of it.
Draco was having similar thoughts. He kissed Harry with all the passion in his possession, his fingers playing with the dark hair on Harry's chest. He moved close so their bodies were pressed together. A part of him wanted to know what Harry had been up to all day, but he also knew Harry needed some distraction and rest. He would give his lover what he needed, because he knew Harry would do the same for him. He was happier than he had ever been in his life, despite the trying times he knew would come.
Draco rolled so he was on top of Harry and proceeded to show his lover exactly how happy he was. Harry was very appreciative, and responsive.
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