Into the Future: Part Two
The limo pulled up outside an unassuming brick building. Nothing of the exterior even hinted at any sort of luxury restaurant, and the elder Malfoys looked at the raven, worried. Harry just smiled, jumping a little as the driver opened the door to help the passengers from the vehicle. Harry passed the man several bills as a tip, and the driver's eyes widened at the exceedingly generous amount. He bowed and thanked the raven profusely, ensuring the passengers that he'd wait all night if need be. Harry chuckled and led the way, holding the restaurant door open for everyone. They entered, and gasped loudly at the ambiance.
The restaurant had monogrammed silver plates, waiters in livery, and the Michelin star prominently displayed. Eyes wide, Narcissa turned to Harry, and asked what the star meant.
"In the muggle world, there are…connoisseurs of fine food and wine. They are paid very handsomely to eat at various establishments and pass judgment on the restaurants. There are several criteria, including atmosphere and the food, on which they base their decisions. The number of stars indicates the quality of the restaurant, from one star to four. It takes a great deal to earn a Michelin star."
"Thank you for bringing us here, Harry," Draco said softly, proud that his husband thought enough of his parents to treat them to something this special. The Maitre'd approached the group, and Harry spoke for everyone.
"We are here to meet with Mr. and Mrs. Creevey. If you could please take us to their table?" Nodding, the man led them through the tables, and Lucius and Narcissa looked at all the finery, their nostrils quivering at all the enticing aromas that swirled around them. Lucius flinched every now and then as a muggle shifted or moved in his or her chair, and Narcissa took his hand, rubbing the knuckles with her thumb, trying to soothe his nerves. Finally, they were led to a secluded table, where the Creeveys were already waiting. Mr. Creevey stood quickly, his eyes uncertainly flicking from person to person. He reached out a hand to Harry, apology in his face.
"I thank you for meeting with us, Mr. Potter," he said solemnly. Harry shook his hand, smiling gently to put the man at ease.
"The pleasure is all mine. Please call me Harry. I was recently married, and my name is now Zabini-Malfoy, if you please." The man nodded, surprise in his eyes. He swept an arm out to the table, and Harry pulled a chair out for Narcissa, helping her to seat herself. She murmured her thanks, and Lucius looked at the raven with a modicum more respect for his graciousness. Draco held Harry's chair, and Blaise sat on the other side of the raven. "Before we begin, I must make introductions. This" indicating Narcissa, "is my mother-in-law, Narcissa Malfoy. She was instrumental in helping me recover from the attack. This" indicating Lucius, "is my father-in-law, Lucius Malfoy. A stronger, more devoted family man I've never met." Lucius blushed lightly at the praise, his respect for Harry rising higher. "This," indicating Draco, "is my husband, Draco Malfoy. Isn't he beautiful?" Draco blushed, smiling, and the Creeveys, after getting over their initial shock, chuckled. "Lastly, this," indicating Blaise, "is Blaise Zabini, my other husband. My delicious bit of dark chocolate." Everyone at the table blushed at that description, and Blaise's brown eyes promised retribution. Smiling, Harry sat back, waiting for the Creeveys to begin. "Oh, before I forget; I would like to pay for the meal, if you don't mind." The Creeveys opened their mouths to object, but Harry bulled on. "It's Narcissa's birthday today, and I would like to treat her, and everyone else, to this marvelous lunch." Mouths snapped shut, and David and Christine Creevey relaxed. David began.
"I would like to offer my humblest apologies for what my son did to you, Mr. Zabini-Malfoy. I was saddened that he had carried his unhealthy obsession with you to this extent. I have some relevant information on the brewer of the potion he used, and some idea of how he procured the name." Christine pulled a piece of wrinkled parchment from her purse, and slowly slid it across the table to Harry. "He had written to someone by the name of Rabastan LeStrange in some prison called Azkaban. He pretended to be a Voldemort supporter, and claimed that he wanted the potion to use on you, to torture you. I was able to glean that information from this reply that he had hidden in his room." Harry's eyes fell to the parchment, and Draco and Blaise leaned over so they could read it also.
Mr. Peverell:
I was shocked to receive a communiqué from you. I was under the impression that the direct Peverell line had died with the Dark Lord. I stand corrected. You have provided ample evidence to your pureblood status, and I am pleased to do business with you.
As you can see, I have the name of a most excellent brewer, who is able to make a special potion for your purposes. This potion was invented by that blood-traitor Severus Snape, and provided much entertainment for our Lord.
Thank you, for forwarding galleons to my brother's and my vaults at Gringotts. Yes, we are fortunate to still maintain vaults there, though they were heavily ransacked by the Ministry after the war. I look forward to more letters from you, describing in detail exactly what tortures you inflicted on Harry Potter.
Rabastan LeStrange
"The name was on a separate slip of paper, and it looked like Dennis tried to burn it. Fortunately, his incenderary charm wasn't very effective. I found this shoved underneath his bed. Perhaps a breeze blew it there. I hope that this will help to mitigate our guilt at allowing this to get as far as it has. Again, I do apologize."
"No apologies are necessary. I understand how easy it is to lose track of your children's behavior when they are so far away. I'm very glad that you were able to provide this information to us. Thank you." David bowed his head in acknowledgment and appreciation of the forgiveness.
A waiter approached the table, and everyone quieted. They hadn't perused the menus yet, so they took a few moments to look at the offerings. The waiter had a bored look on his face as he waited patiently for everyone to order. Finally, after murmured conversation, Harry spoke.
"I would like Terrine de homard aux artichauts for the ladies, Brochette de bar et saumon aux poivrons for Draco, Lucius and Blaise, and Terrine de fraises des bois for myself and David." Closing the menu, he and the others at the table handed them back to the waiter, who took them and went to place the order. A sommelier approached the table with a wine list, holding it out to Harry. The raven shook his head and indicated Lucius, having no head for vintages or provenances. The elder Malfoy took the list, smiling indulgently at Harry. That will be one of the things I coach him on, Lucius thought, excitement at the prospect vibrating through him. He perused the list, eyebrows going skyward as he saw the entries.
"I would like a bottle of the Bordeaux Pauillac Latour 1926, if you please." Draco's eyes widened at the expensive wine, and he looked at his father in surprise.
"You do realize how rare that particular vintage is," he said, concern for cost in his voice. Lucius nodded, anxious to begin Harry's wine education with one of the rarest and best wines available. The raven turned to his husband, eyebrow quirked. "That wine is very rare, and very, very expensive," the blond explained. Harry chuckled, touched at Draco's concern.
"Money is no problem, Draco," he said quietly. A snort from Lucius had the emerald eyes swiveling.
"That's something you and I will work on, Harry," the older blond said. "It is never proper or acceptable to dismiss finances so cavalierly. I know that you have a sizable fortune; however, money is nothing to bandy about freely. You must be careful what you do with it. Never hoard it, but never loosely spend or give it away, either. I will teach you about the proper way to invest, and which directions you should go with your fortunes."
"Thank you, Lucius. I look forward to any lessons you wish to teach me." The boy looked down shyly, a soft blush gracing his features. "I'm hoping to look upon you as a father some day, if you'll let me." Lucius beamed at the soft confession. The food arrived with the wine, which was uncorked at the table. They waited a few moments, to allow the vintage to breathe, before the sommelier decanted a small amount into a glass. Lucius lifted the glass to his nose, inhaling quietly to test the fragrance for any vinegary tang that would indicate that the wine had gone over. Noting only the raisiny fragrance, he took a sip, swishing the wine across his tongue and palate, taking soft sips of air to move the bouquet across his senses better. The rich raisiny flavor of the wine burst over his palate, and he hummed his pleasure, nodding to the sommelier to decant to the rest of the table. Harry had watched this entire performance with great fascination, his viridian eyes wide and curious. Lucius smiled under the attention, and turned to the boy as the wine was poured.
"I have a great many things to teach you about elite society," he said softly. "We've discussed manners, class status, and the history of pureblood wizarding society. Now it is time for you to delve into the more intimate workings of the society. This will include proper fashions for the variety of functions you will be required to attend as a Malfoy, as well as learning the ins and outs of wines and gourmet foods. I know that some of what I will teach you will seem…frivolous, but I wish you to make your family proud when we mingle within our social circles. You are a strong, intelligent young man, and I will not have you humiliated simply because of a misstep due to lack of education." Harry flushed, excited at the prospect of getting closer to Lucius. Narcissa smiled softly at the raven, stroking a hand down his arm.
"You've already done more for this family than you'll ever know," she said. "I'm glad that we can, in our own small way, give something back to you." The group turned to their meals, the Creeveys silent as they watched the byplay.
"Mr. Zabini-Malfoy, Dennis had told us of some of the adventures you had during your term at Hogwarts. They sounded exciting. I was wondering if you would be willing to share some of your story with us." Harry narrowed his eyes at the couple, suspicious.
"Why do you wish to know?" Blaise barked, concerned. The Creeveys colored, awkward.
"We…we live such ordinary lives. It is a rare thing to be face-to-face with an honest to goodness hero, and we just wanted to hear some of the tales." Christine was beet-red as she finished her explanation.
"Harry has had far too much exposure to greedy reporters and newsmen, who took every opportunity to humiliate him and make him a pariah in the wizarding community," Lucius stated baldly. "Forgive us if we seem a little cautious at the kind of information that you would glean from us. We know the temptation to sell his story to the highest bidder is great. We cannot allow that…" Lucius never got to finish his thought, as David interrupted.
"Our apologies, Mr. Malfoy. We meant no harm. We have no intention of repeating or spreading anything any of you tell us. Dennis was full of such stories, and he always seemed happiest when he was discussing Mr. Zabini-Malfoy. We just wanted to share in that enjoyment, even though it was obsessive and ultimately cruel." Harry visibly relaxed and grinned.
"Please call me Harry," he told them again, before launching into story after story of the things he'd done in Hogwarts. Some of the stories not even Draco knew, and he was just as fascinated and enthralled as everyone else at the table. Much laughter and embarrassment was shared as they enjoyed the meal, before the waiter arrived with the check. Harry didn't even look at it; he just threw a wad of notes on the silver salver, telling the waiter to keep the change. The man's eyes flew open at the amount of cash on the tray, and he stuttered his gratitude. Harry smiled before rising and pulling out Narcissa's chair, helping her to her feet. The rest of the people followed suit, and left the restaurant, chatting and laughing. On the street, the Creeveys bid their farewells and went to their car. Harry turned to the limo, to find the driver standing with the door opened. Everyone piled in, and Harry requested a trip to Harrod's.
They arrived at the very large muggle store, and Lucius' eyebrows went skyward. His face was a mask of discomfort, and Harry leaned closer to murmur in his ear.
"I wish to buy Narcissa a birthday present," he said. "Please indulge me?" Nodding, the elder blond slowly and reluctantly exited the car. Delighted squeals had him turning in shock, and he smiled fondly as he watched his wife staring at the windows, marveling at the wonderful pieces of jewelry on display. "If you and Draco could distract her," the raven continued in Lucius' ear, "I'm sure I can find something that would suit her perfectly." Nodding, the elder blond strode forward, beckoning his son, and gently gripped his wife's elbow, chuckling at her childlike glee with all the baubles. The Malfoys carefully entered the store, Harry and Blaise steps behind them, chuckling at the almost frantic way Lucius dodged out of the way of the muggles circulating through the store. He and Draco led the woman one way, and Harry immediately headed for the jewelry counter.
He stood looking into the glass display cases, his eyes roaming over the many varied pieces of jewelry, until his eyes lit on what he thought was the perfect thing. It looked to be a set; a teardrop pearl necklace, and long drop pearl earrings. He smiled as he signaled the clerk, who eagerly removed the items from the case and placed them on top, so Harry could take a closer look.
"The pearl is nearly perfect," she stated simply, "and the earrings compliment the pendant nicely." Harry nodded absently as the woman talked, his heart racing. They're perfect, he thought. Simple and elegant, just like she is.
"I'll take them," he said to the girl, and she took them from the top of the case. Harry's eyes continued to wander as the girl rang him up, and his eyes lit on a silver and crystal ring that would make an excellent companion piece to the pendant and earrings. He signaled the girl again, and indicated the ring.
"What size?" she asked. He stammered for a few moments, before he said he wanted a size five. She pulled the ring from the case, and rang it up also. "We provide free gift-wrapping, if you've a mind," she said as she took his money. He nodded, smiling, and she took the jewelry boxes to the back, where she quickly and efficiently wrapped them. Moments later, the parcels were in his hands, and he was wandering the store, Blaise in tow, looking at everything.
"I want to get something special for Lucius, as a 'thank you' for accepting me and welcoming me into the family. What do you think, Blaise?" The Italian looked around, his eyes wide, and lit on men's jewelry. He dragged the raven over to the counter and pointed at a pair of cufflinks. They were Alfred Dunhill Button 'Jester' cufflinks with diamonds, and were elegant and stunning. Harry gasped, his face creased in a wide grin, and he quickly summoned the clerk. The man strode over to Harry, looking the ex-Gryffindor up and down and curling his lip arrogantly.
"May I help you?" he sneered. Harry's eyebrows shot into his hairline, and he schooled his features into a mask of indifference. He was dressed in grey cashmere slacks, with a black silk button-down shirt under a grey cashmere jacket. He didn't scream 'wealth', but he wasn't looking like a common hobo, either.
"Yes, you may," the raven replied mildly. He indicated the cufflinks. "I would like to purchase those, if you please." The clerk's eyes tracked down to the jewelry indicated, and widened imperceptibly. He looked back up at the boy, and the sneer was replaced by a fawning smile.
"Of course, sir," he gushed profusely, eyes gleaming with the commission he would make from the sale. He reached into the case and grasped the box, gently placing the cufflinks on the counter. Harry bent closer, beckoning Blaise nearer, and both boys examined the links. They sparkled and glimmered in the bright lights, and were exquisite. Nodding, Harry pulled out a wad of cash, counting out the bills and placing them on the counter beside the box. The clerk hurriedly scooped up the cash, as if he were afraid that Harry would change his mind, and rang up the sale. "Would you like these gift-wrapped?" he asked solicitously as he returned with Harry's change. The raven nodded, and the box was gently picked up, closed, and efficiently wrapped. The clerk handed the wrapped box to Harry, bowing his thanks, and the raven and Blaise walked away from the counter, Harry's heart pounding in excitement.
The trip back to the corner near the Leaky Cauldron went by fairly quietly, each person in their own thoughts. Harry's excitement shone from his emerald eyes, and more than once someone tried to ask him what was going on. He just smiled, sphinx-like, and looked out the window at the passing scenery. They finally reached their drop-off point, and everyone exited the car, Harry pressing more bills into the driver's hands. Stammering, the driver pulled out a business card and handed it to the raven.
"If you should ever need limo service again, sir, please do not hesitate to call on me. My home and cell numbers are on the back. It has been a tremendous pleasure to escort you and your party today. Thank you." Bowing, the driver returned to the car, started it up, and pulled away. Lucius looked at Harry, the last of his reservations about the boy burning away as he observed just how gracious and genteel the raven had been throughout the day. Leading the way into the Leaky Cauldron, everyone there yelled out a cheerful 'hello' to the group, and a few people approached Lucius, eager to talk to him about business matters. He took their names, with explanations that he would owl them later in the week to set up meeting times. The group flooed back to the Manor, Harry stumbling out and into Lucius' arms, to the great amusement of the man.
"We will have Narcissa's birthday celebration in the sunroom," the elder Malfoy said to the house elf that had popped in. "Please have the meal and the cake brought there." The diminutive creature nodded enthusiastically before it popped away.
"Could you show me the way to the sunroom?" the raven asked his blond husband. Snickering softly, Draco tugged the boy after him, with Blaise bringing up the rear. Chuckling, Lucius took his wife's arm, looping it through his, and escorted her to the sunroom after the boys. She gasped in surprise at the flowers overflowing the many vases throughout the room. The fragrances melded together, scenting the air softly. Smiling, Lucius led her to the small table, pulling out her chair and seating her, seating himself next to her. Harry, Blaise and Draco were already seated, smiling at the parents. A house elf popped in, presenting a Veuve Clicquot Rose 1970. Narcissa hummed her pleasure; she was quite taken with this particular vineyard and vintage, and was inordinately pleased that they still had some in their cellar. Lucius smiled at her, blushing lightly at her approval. He took the bottle from the creature and decanted it to the table.
Draco picked up his glass, gently sniffing at the wine. Harry watched, fascinated, as the blond performed the same delicate dance his father did at the restaurant. Curiosity finally getting the better of him, he asked.
"Why do you smell and taste the wine so completely?"
"That is one of the wonderful things I will instruct you on," Lucius answered. The raven turned to the older man, anticipation in his eyes. "For today, I will explain what occurs when we sample a vintage in such a way." He slowly and carefully explained every nuance of wine-making, speaking to the vineyards and the soil compositions that would make excellent wines. He then showed Harry how he was to inhale the fragrance, to get all the subtle scents from the vintage; he followed that with a careful demonstration on how to taste the wine, to get all the various flavors and accents the wine possessed. Harry followed his instructions diligently, concentrating, trying to sharpen his senses so that he could pick out the various scents and flavors. Lucius smiled, proud that the young man was so willing to submerge himself in the foreign world of pureblood etiquette. They shared pleasant conversation as they sipped at the wine, and house elves popped in on occasion to deliver what turned out to be a twelve-course birthday dinner, complete with a devils food cake, layered with the most scrumptious, rich, decadent dark chocolate frosting Harry had ever tasted.
By the time the meal was completed, Harry was groaning under the weight of his bloated stomach. Blaise chuckled, kissing the raven on the cheek, while Draco kissed the scar on the boy's forehead. Blushing, Harry dropped his eyes to his hands.
"Time for presents, I think," Lucius murmured fondly, smiling at the ex-Gryffindor's shyness. Standing, he escorted the group into the parlor, where they gathered around the fire. Though spring was just around the corner, the air still had a chill, and the Manor tended to hang on to drafts. Lucius seated his wife in a wingback chair, everyone else gathered around her. One by one, they handed over their presents, Lucius being first.
She took the package, which was wrapped in a bubble-pink paper, and gently tore the paper away. Opening the box, she gasped at the beautiful crystal figurine nestled in the tissue paper. She lifted it carefully from the box, her eyes suspiciously bright. It was a cut crystal figure of her, holding Draco as a baby. The look of love and devotion on her face was plain for all to see, and the crystal held a faint rose tint, as if it were blushing from the attention.
"Lucius," she breathed in awe, "however did you manage this?" Beaming, he explained.
"I went to a craftsman. I knew exactly what I wanted to get you, and this artisan came highly recommended. He sat me in a chair, and asked me to call up a most cherished memory. This is what came to my mind immediately; it was days after Draco was born, and the look on your face…It was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen, and he recreated it perfectly. Happy birthday, dearest." She summoned a house elf, tears shimmering in her eyes, and told the creature to very carefully place it on mantel in her bedroom. The elf gently took the piece, and quietly popped away. She brushed the tears away from her cheek, and Draco, whose own eyes were glazed with tears, handed her his present. She smiled tremulously at her son, reaching out a hand to softly run her fingers down his cheek. He smiled at her, leaning into the caress, and Harry dropped his eyes, hiding the spark of envy in them. Blaise seemed to know what he was feeling, and hugged the boy to his side, brushing soft kisses to his cheek in comfort.
Rustling paper had Harry lifting his eyes, the jealousy deeply buried. Narcissa glanced into those emerald orbs, and saw the longing he couldn't completely hide. She turned her eyes to the gift in her hands, her mind turning as she slowly opened the box. And gasped again.
Inside was the most beautiful Chinese vase she had ever seen. Beautiful young women carried baskets of narcissi, and the flowers were so lifelike that you could swear you smelled them. It wasn't a magical vase; the women didn't move. It was, however, an exceedingly rare collectible, and she blushed as she thought of the lengths her son went to procure this particular piece. Beaming, she looked proudly at Draco, and he blushed.
"Thank you, my Dragon," she said softly. She gently set the vase aside, and was surprised when Harry thrust a trio of packages into her hands. Looking up, startled, she met the emerald eyes that seemed to be pleading for something. She smiled sweetly at the boy, caressing his cheek in much the same way she had Draco's, and Harry rubbed his cheek against her palm, smiling tenderly. She looked back at the carefully wrapped packages in her hands, and opened the larger one first. Gasping, she looked back up at Harry, shock in her blue eyes. "Harry," she gasped. "It's exquisite." She pulled the pearl pendant from the box, holding it up for everyone to see. Lucius beamed at the boy as he gently took the chain, placing the necklace around her throat and fastening it. He scooped up her flaxen locks and pulled them from the chain, allowing the pendant to settle between her breasts, where the pearl glowed in the firelight. The next package yielded a delighted squeal as she pulled the drop pearl earrings from the box. She quickly removed her earrings, sliding the hooks into her ears and swinging her head back and forth, enjoying the feel of the seed pearls bouncing gently against her jaw. The last package sat in her lap for a moment; she was a little nervous. Picking it up, she opened it, and her jaw dropped open. Nestled in the velvet was the most exquisite crystal and silver ring. She pulled it from the box, holding it up for everyone to see. Gasps filled the silence as Draco and Lucius stared at the lovely piece, the firelight making the crystals wink and sparkle. She slid it onto her right ring finger, where it fit perfectly, and she couldn't hold back the tears any longer.
"Thank you, my boys," she warbled, tears thickening her voice. "I love the both of you so much." Harry dropped his eyes; he understood that this was a private moment between Narcissa and her husband and son, and didn't want to intrude. He was startled when long, slender fingers gripped his chin, raising his head. His emerald eyes locked with her sky blue, and he saw the unconditional love deep within them. For him. "Harry," she said quietly, "you are my boy. Not only because you've married my son, but because you've shown the dedication and devotion to this family that makes you family. I could not be more proud of one person than I am of you." Harry sat there, trembling, overwhelmed with emotion. Suddenly, he found himself buried deeply within Narcissa's arms, her fingers carding through his ebony locks. She continued to murmur her love for him, and he inhaled the subtle fragrance she always wore, linking it to his thoughts of mother.
She held him for some small time, soothing the isolation and loneliness that had been such a deeply ingrained part of him for so long, until a throat clearing had him jumping, blushing furiously. He pulled back and looked at Lucius a little cautiously, surprised when he saw a smile of welcome on the man's face.
"She speaks for all of us, Harry," he said quietly. "You are family. You have stood beside us, even when you didn't have to; even when doing so would cost you the support of your friends. Courage and honor like that is most prized among the Malfoys. I am humbled and proud to call you son." Harry stood and stepped toward the elder Malfoy, his face hopeful. He stood in front of the man, hesitant, and gave out a startled squeak when Lucius pulled him roughly into a hug, squeezing the stuffing out of him. Harry's arms wrapped around the older man, and he buried his nose in the other's neck, smiling. He finally pulled away from the older man, and stuck his hand in his robe pocket.
"I…I wanted to get you something," he mumbled, blushing. "To thank you for allowing me to be a part of Draco's life. For accepting me into the family." He pulled out the wrapped package, and handed it to Lucius, whose eyebrows had disappeared into his hairline in shock. He took the package, and slowly unwrapped it, anticipation putting a soft blush on his porcelain skin. He opened the jeweler's box, and gasped harshly at what lay within. His stormy grey eyes flew to Harry's, awe darkening them, before he looked back into the box. He gently lifted the cufflinks from the box, and Narcissa and Draco gasped loudly at the stunning baubles.
"Harry, I don't know what to say," Lucius murmured, staring at the classy cufflinks. A snort from Draco had all eyes flying to him.
"That's a first," he quipped good-humouredly. "My father, speechless. You'll have to surprise him like that more often, Harry." Laughter erupted around the room, and the tensions were eased greatly. The rest of the visit went as well, with Harry asking questions, and Lucius eagerly instructing the raven. When the trio finally stood to leave, Narcissa hugged each and every one of them, brushing tender kisses to their cheeks before they flooed back to Hogwarts. A strong handshake from Lucius, and the boys disappeared into the fireplace, Harry the last to leave. He looked back at his parents-in-law, eyes gleaming with joy. No, he thought, not parents-in-law. Parents. My mum and dad.
"I am sad to see some of my students leaving us," Headmistress McGonagall said at the Leaving Feast. The rest of the year went by quickly for the trio, and no one else tried to charm the raven away from his husbands. The love and devotion the three showed for each other, as well as the articles in the Daily Prophet, went a long way in convincing everyone that Harry was truly happy, and that the Malfoys were genuinely good people. "Those students involved in the restructuring of Hogwarts will meet with me in my office after the Feast. The rest of you…well, come next year, there will no longer be houses. No more will there be the vicious rivalries that poisoned the educations of many a student before now. When you return, you will return to an atmosphere of camaraderie, companionship, and equality. Respect and consideration will be the norms, and the only time the houses will be referenced is for the formation of Quidditch teams. Enjoy." With a clap of her hands, the tables filled to bursting with food. Ron fell to, his fork flying as he chatted amiably with his fellow Hufflepuffs. He had learned during his stay in the House that his behavior as a Gryffindor was completely unacceptable. He learned the true meaning of loyalty and respect, and the Hufflepuff students also taught him to temper his more volatile emotions with patience and understanding. Though he still had a tendency to fly off the handle, he no longer took setbacks as a personal attack. He had grown, and no one was more proud of this growth than Harry.
Ginny became an outcast in her own House as a result of her vicious betrayal. No one wanted to associate with her when they learned of her perfidy, and she sat alone at the very end of the table, by the doors. Occasionally she would glare at Harry, as if it was all his fault she was in the position she was in. Ultimately, at least to herself, she was able to admit that it was her fault. Staring morosely at her food, she picked at it, her appetite nonexistent. She was surprised when someone sat across from her, and her surprise turned to outright shock when she saw who it was.
Harry sat opposite her, his emerald eyes shuttered. She flushed scarlet, her blue eyes snapping in anger, before she heaved a sigh of defeat, dropping her eyes to her plate.
"What do you want, Harry?" she asked quietly. There was no hostility in her voice; just gentle resignation.
"I want you to know that I will never forgive you for what you did to me," he answered equally quietly. Anger trembled in his voice, but he kept it under control, not wishing to attract undue attention. Her eyes flashed and she looked at him, anger in their depths.
"You will never forgive me?" she hissed incredulously. "It's your fault, you know. If you hadn't taken up with those damn Slytherins, we would be together. I love you Harry." A snort of laughter met this, and the raven shook his head sadly.
"How conveniently you forget that I was there when you told Dennis that you only wanted my money and fame. You don't love me. You don't even know the meaning of the word. You love what my name and my money can give you. If I recall correctly, you didn't want to be the 'brood mare for the Chosen One'. You are not welcome to my house. You are not welcome in my life. Please stay away." With that, he left, walking back to his husbands, who had watched the exchange with narrowed eyes. Ginny saw the fury in those Slytherins' eyes, and she trembled, dropping her gaze back to her plate.
Ron had watched the exchange, and understood how Harry felt. He stood and strode to the end of the Gryffindor table, sitting beside his sister. She looked up at him in surprise, before she smiled sweetly at him, innocence gleaming in her blue eyes. Ron's azure eyes narrowed; he was very familiar with this ploy, as the girl had used it many times before to con he and his family out of things.
"Ron?" she asked, pouting just slightly. "Harry was being mean to me. He was threatening me. Tell him that he has to let me come see him. Since I am a Weasley, I have to be allowed to visit him with the rest of my family. Tell him that he can't shut me out or you'll stop being friends with him." The redhead looked at his sister for a moment, before he burst out laughing. He laughed so hard his face turned red, and everyone in the Hall turned to see what was going on. Harry saw the laughter, and the pissed off expression on Ginny's face, and smirked.
"She's not going to be able to get away with anything anymore," he murmured to the blond next to him. Draco snorted, pleased, and Blaise chuckled. They watched the drama unfold as Ginny slowly withdrew her wand, ready to hex her brother. Her wand suddenly flew from her hand, and blue eyes widened in shock as a petite blonde strode to the table. Astoria leaned over the table and snarled directly into the redheaded girl's face.
"That is my fiancé you just attempted to hex. Let me make things perfectly clear for you, little girl. You are an unwelcome presence in our lives. However, since you are family, you will be tolerated by those of us who have no choice but to tolerate you. Harry doesn't have to tolerate you. If you dare go near him…let's just say that what I'll do to you will make you wish you'd never been born. Consider yourself warned." She returned the wand and, taking Ron's hand, pulled him away from the seething, embarrassed girl.
"Well, that was interesting," Hermione commented dryly, making everyone at the Slytherin table roar with laughter.
"Thank you, children, for your due diligence in this task," McGonagall said exhaustedly. It had been a long two weeks as the group hammered out the final details of the restructuring. The students had come up with a comprehensive plan that would still include a sorting. Just not a sorting into different Houses. The Hat would be used to sort students by their skills and abilities, whether they be proficient in Potions, Dark Arts, Herbology, Charms, Arithmancy, Divination, or many of the other disciplines that Hogwarts would offer. Those with skills in multiple disciplines would choose a Mastery, and focus on that. Only the finest qualities of each house; bravery and courage from Gryffindor, intelligence and critical thinking from Ravenclaw, loyalty and compassion from Hufflepuff, and cunning and drive from Slytherin; would be encouraged and cultivated. No student would be ostracized; every student would be treated with humanity and humility, and friendships amongst the students would be encouraged. Classes on the pureblood culture, as well as the muggle culture, would be taught, so that understanding between the factions could be cultivated and developed. Hermione even went so far as to suggest a muggleborn she knew that would make an excellent teacher for Muggle Studies classes, since pureblood wizards really didn't have a clue.
"Now that we have a cohesive plan in place, I would like to talk to you about your future plans." McGonagall nodded to the married trio first, eyes gleaming.
"Well," Harry said softly, "I have a Defensive Magics apprenticeship waiting for me in Greece, and Draco has the Potions apprenticeship at that same school." Grey eyebrows shot into her hairline; she knew that school, knew its reputation.
"Well done, Harry," she murmured appreciatively. "You as well, Mr. Malfoy. That is a most prestigious school. And you, Mr. Zabini?" Blaise grinned.
"We have some vineyards in Greece that require closer management. My mother can never seem to get away to oversee the operations, and we can't find any skilled help. So I've taken it upon myself to take control of these vineyards. This way, I'll be able to be with my husbands and children, when we have them." Harry hugged the Italian, glee in his eyes.
"Excellent. Now, Miss Granger, how about you?"
"Well, since my NEWTs were so good, I have a Ministry position waiting for me, and my fiance will also be working in the Ministry."
"Congratulations, both on the position and the upcoming nuptials. Luna?" Spacey blue eyes met McGonagall's, and the blonde shrugged.
"I think," Harry said, "that she'll just marry Neville, and allow him to take care of her. She's sacrificed so much to that blasted war; it's time someone else took care of her." Luna nodded energetically, beaming at the raven. He smiled back, love in his eyes for his ditzy friend. The rest of the students outlined their post-graduation plans, and tea and scones were served as the headmistress visited with some of her favorite students for the last time. Nearing dusk, McGonagall rose from her chair and bade farewell to the students, watching with tear-filled eyes as they left her office for the last time. Sighing heavily, she sat in her chair, turning to look at the portrait of Dumbledore.
"Well, Albus, we did it," she murmured quietly to the old man. "We've ensured the continued prosperity and longevity of the wizarding world." He nodded sagely, his blue eyes twinkling.
"That we have, Minerva. That we have."
Harry and his husbands settled rather quickly into the house, with the painting of Hogwarts prominently displayed above the mantel in the family room. After unpacking and changing décor, Harry set out to make his fantasies come alive.
He was sprawled, naked, on the dining room table, whipped cream covering honeyed skin. Blaise was between his legs, his mouth wrapped around Harry's cock, and Harry's lips engulfed Draco's hardness as he knelt on the table above Harry's head. The blond thrust slowly into the warm cavern, his hands on the table on either side of the raven's torso, his tongue flicking through the whipped cream and driving Harry into a frenzy. At every moan, Draco thrust harder into that willing mouth, gasping at the sensations, his toes curling. Fingers suddenly breached Harry's pucker, and he arched, growling. That was all it took, and Draco came hard down Harry's throat, his own keening cry echoing through the house. Harry's tongue busily flicked and licked Draco's flagging cock until the blond pulled from his mouth, moaning at the over stimulation. He sprawled out on the table beside the brunet, occasionally reaching up to lick at some more melting whipped cream. Harry's cries filled the space as Blaise lovingly prepared him, before he took some of the cream as lubrication, slicking his hard flesh and thrusting into Harry.
Gasps and moans were the only sounds as Blaise pounded into the raven, making the table rock with the motion. Draco moved forward, engulfing Harry's hardness in his mouth, and he screamed as he came, his hands tunneling through flaxen strands and holding the blond's head still. His clenching passage milked the Italian's orgasm from him, and he groaned out Harry's name as he fell forward, narrowly missing Draco's withdrawing head. He lay like that for a moment, his cock still pulsing its release into Harry's body as the raven's hands went to his curly hair, stroking and playing with the thick strands. Finally, Blaise stood up and gently pulled himself from Harry's body, watching as the boy arched into the sensation. Draco summoned his wand, murmuring cleaning charms and flicking the stick over all of them, removing the sticky mess of whipped cream as well as come.
Draco slowly crawled from the table, holding out a hand to help Harry up. Once on his feet, the raven smirked and pulled the blond toward the kitchen. Blaise followed, entranced by the wicked smirk on the boy's face.
"Harry?" the blond questioned hesitantly. Harry only smiled, his viridian eyes gleaming wickedly…