Chapter 21 No Tension Please!

Severus was awakened the next morning by the sound of someone shuffling chairs and papers and bottles in the room. He kept his eyes closed and had to stiffle a yawn so that whoever it was wouldn't see that he was awake. For a moment he wondered who it was, and why he hadn't heard that warning alarm... Maybe it was one of those alarms that just made the room change color or something. Oh well, he didn't care really.

He heard the person cough as they were, what sounded like, messing up the room. It was Remus...sadly he had memorized every noise that man could make. He probably came down sometime early that morning. What in the hell was he doing?

Severus slightly cracked his eye open and saw the man going through the various cabinets in the hospital. He wondered what Remus was looking for...and why...

Since the man's back was turned, Severus chanced a glance at the clock on the wall. It was nearly 10am. He inwardly groaned. He hadn't slept that long for no reason in a long time. He never allowed himself that luxury and it really annoyed him that he had taken it. Maybe he was still recuperating from the full moon? It shouldn't have taken him this long to get better...just another sign of age catching up to him.

"What in the world?" Remus asked outloud.

Severus opened his eyes again and saw that the room had a light blue aura about it. He was right, the alarm was the color changing kind. He had to fight the smirk that wanted to show itself at Remus' expense. The poor man was probably confused. The aura only lasted about thrity seconds though, as the room changed back to normal. Remus looked around, as if trying to figure out what had happened.

Albus casually walked in and looked at Severus, who nodded, then closed his eyes again. The old man looked at Remus, who was still staring around the room.

"Something wrong Remus?"

"Oh, hello Headmaster. I ..I just thought...never mind I must have imagined it."

Dumbledore's eyes sparkled like mad as he watched the light haired man. He then looked around the hospital wing and saw that the cupboards were a mess.

"Looking for something?"

"What? Oh, umm. No, I was just bored so I decided to see what was all in here." Remus said, shifting away from the counter.

Albus didn't believe him, but let it go anyway. "So I've come to ask a favor of you Remus."

"Oh, alright sure." Lupin came and stood next to the arm chair.

"I know its a lot to ask, but might you be able to wait in my office at Hogwarts for the Minister of Magic to arrive and keep him entertained? I have an urgent meeting that cannot be missed. It is of importance to the war front effort. I would ask someone else, but everyone is gone or busy."

"Its no problem at all sir. I will handle that for you."

"Thank you so much. It might take a little while, but I will arrive as soon as possible. If he gives you a problem with his complaints, just tell him that my detainment is for the betterment of his position. That should keep him quiet for awhile." the old man smiled.

"I'll head over that way then." Remus said, heading towards the door.

"Oh, and I tend to enjoy Peach Pasties." Albus added.

Remus laughed and winked at the older man. "I'll keep that in mind."

Then Dumbledore and Severus were left alone. They waited another minute before casting the silencing and locking charm on the door.

"So you have an important meeting huh?" Severus smirked.

"Actually I do, but not for another twenty minutes or so."

The man nodded and sat up, stretching his muscles. "He seems to be doing much better."

"Yes, that he does. A complete turn around now that he has gotten his rest. And see how simple it was for him to leave this time. I think it worked out nicely."

"So it should be safe for me to 'wake up' now don't you agree?" the dark haired man asked, a tinge of hope in his voice. After all he hated being bed bound.

"Yes I think it should be fine now that he has left the room and shown great signs of improvement. You can do so as you see fit."

"Thank you sir." Snape said. He grew quiet, a thought in his head that Dumbledore could guess.

"You have something more on you're mind?"

"You would know. I just wish I knew. Do I wait until He calls me, or do I come to him and apologize for not answering when I was called?"

"I think you, though I haven't been in your situation, should wait until he calls you. When he does, you can explain what we talked about, then add that you were unsure of whether to come unsummoned, in fear of imposing upon him."

Snape nodded, taking the suggestion into account. It seemed logical enough. He just had to keep his mind blocked.

"Well, I think I'll be off. Are you going to the wedding?"

"I probably should. When is it?"

"Tomorrow." the old man smiled.

"Alright."

Dumbledore departed and took off the spells, leaving Severus to think.

IMTAKINFOREVERTOWRITE!

Draco Malfoy was sitting up in the soft hotel bed, looking down and the sleeping boy nestled in his lap. He let his fingers graze Harry's dark locks.

The night before almost seemed like a dream to him. Had Harry acutally agreed to be his lover? Sure it was a secret, and a shameful one to Harry, but Draco still had him and that was all that mattered. He snorted at himself. He could be such a softy sometimes.

It was nearly time for them to leave for rehersal again. He hated to wake the raven haired teen, but found the temptation irresistible.

Draco took his wand from the side table, and whispered, "Aguamenti."

He didn't do it forcefully, in fear of himself getting wet, but he did let a fairly good splash of water coat Harry.

Draco's sides split as Harry jumped a foot in the air, cursing. "What the hell was that for!" Harry did not look amused.

"I had to wake you up somehow scarhead, and why not do it the fun way." Draco smirked.

Harry sat there seething as he glared at the blonde. Draco merely got up and murmured a drying spell on Harry.

"See, good as new, now get ready. We have to leave in twenty minutes and I want breakfast."

Harry sighed and rummaged through his bags, finding an outfit he was happy with, then retreated to the bathroom.

Malfoy snorted, then changed into his own outfit, remembering not to dress too nice, because he would be setting up tents and such today.

It didn't take Harry long to finish, so Draco grabbed his toothbrush and took over the bathroom. A few minutes later, both boys were ready.

Draco smiled as he watched Harry carelessly pull on his shoes. He apparently wasn't a morning person and was in a bad mood because of his prank. The blonde sighed as Harry got up and went to the mirror for one last attempt at fixing his hair. Malfoy strutted up behind him and wrapped his arms around Harry's waist, letting his chin rest on the shoulder.

"You might as well give up, its not helping." Draco whispered.

Harry shuddered and leaned into the blonde with a sigh of ...was that relief? Apparently Harry had thought the night before was a dream too. Malfoy softly kissed Harry's neck as the raven haired boy turned around, capturing the other in a gentle kiss.

They broke the kiss and held each other for a moment, not wanting to act like this never happened when they left the room.

"Come on, let's get something to eat." Draco said, then cast his charm on himself to look like Liam.

"Right." Harry said, grabbing a room key, then following Liam out of the room.

They walked in awkward silence when they left the room, both wondering if after today, things would end up just like before, and last night was just a random crazy moment.

Draco didn't want it to be like that. He had Harry now, even if it was just a secret to the world, at night he could claim the other as his own. He was still confused about the situation himself, of course he would try his hardest not to let that on to Potter. He was still a Malfoy, despite everything, and he was in a battle with himself, to remain arrogant and controlling, or change completely. He didn't want to change. He wanted to stay a Malfoy, and have Harry for pleasure, but life wasn't that easy. He had never wanted to change for anyone in his life, so why did it feel so different for Potter? He knew deep down that he didn't only want the boy for pleasure, but he just couldn't admit that to himself just yet. So the inner battle went on.

Harry, on the other hand, walked stiffly beside Draco Malfoy. He wondered what the other boy was thinking. Malfoy looked so calm, so in control, and Harry looked like a bumbling idiot. Why couldn't he be nonchalant about the whole thing too? Probably because he was still wondering if this whole thing with the blonde was a mistake. Sure he was attracted to Draco, but no human alive could resist his appearance completely...except maybe Ron... But was he seriously in his right mind when he agreed to be Draco's lover? What if someone found out? How would he explain it? Did he have feelings for the other boy, or was it pure lust? He didn't even want to think of the previous option. Feelings? For a Malfoy no less? Draco Malfoy? No. He couldn't let that happen. He would use Draco as a means to let out his sexual frustration, and that was all. No one would find out, and he could be in control of the situation. So why was he so damn nervous around the blonde!?

This whole inner termiol for both boys lasted until they reached the lounge downstairs. They both grabbed a plate of food and ate quietly. Draco still looked casual and cocky, however Harry looked like he was going to be sick.

"Mate you alright?" Ron asked, waving his fork in front of Harry's face.

"What? Oh yeah, sorry." Harry mumbled.

"You look a sight."

"Thanks..." Harry said sarcastically as he took a bite of his bacon.

Draco smirked as he finished his eggs and took a sip of his coffee.

Ron continued to ramble, drawing Hermione's attention, which in turn, drew Mrs. Weasley's attention.

"Really, I'm fine, just had a rough morning." Harry said, stopping the frets.

"Well, if you need anything Harry dear, just let me know." Mrs. Weasley smiled.

Ron glared at Draco as if it were his fault, but he didn't say anything. Draco merely scowled at the annoying prat in return.

"Alright, are we ready?" Mrs. Weasley asked, ushering them around her once they had finished their plates.

Harry got up and was immediately surrounded by his friends, who wanted to make sure he was alright. Draco rolled his eyes and began to make his way to the villa. No one seemed to care too much that he wandered ahead of them down the busy streets. If he did get too far away, his red hair was a give away.

He felt someone brush up beside him and turned to look. It was Hermione...

"Hi." she said sheepishly.

Draco nodded in response. "Not walking with Scarhead to make sure he doesn't stumble?"

"I'm sure he can manage, especially with everyone around him to catch him if he does. I'm more interested in how you're doing."

"Why?"

"Well, I don't know. I guess I just want to get to know this Dra..uh...

Liam..more, now that you have proven your loyalties."

"So you think I've proven my loyalty? Well, you are the only one who does. Besides, I haven't changed, I'm the same as I always have been." he said as they strolled along, the chattering of the group behind them a good ways.

"Actually, you have changed, whether you see it or not. I can tell..besides, the old you wouldn't have even talked to me this long...whatever it is that has changed your outlook, don't let it go. And I don't think I'm the only one who thinks you've changed." she smiled, glancing back at Harry.

Draco followed her gaze and rested his own on the boy behind him. He smirked, seeing that Harry was getting annoyed at the attention he was getting. Then emerald eyes held his own. It felt like an eternity...like there was no sound..no movement...time stopped. The eyes shinning back at him held more than annoyance at the ones around him, but something Draco wished he could decipher...a hidden meaning, meant only for him.

"You know I'm right." Hermione said, knocking Draco out of his trance. They faced forward and picked up speed.

"Maybe... I don't think he trusts me yet, but I can't say thats any fault but my own."

Draco's face was set in stone as they walked along. He could feel someone's stare boring into his skull, and he had a good feeling that it was coming from a fuming redhead behind him. Ron had finally noticed that Hermione was walking with him.

But that didn't bother him compeletly right now...he was absorbed by his thoughts. Did Harry trust him? He didn't think so... I mean sure they had a moment, but that doesn't call for trust, just hormones. Draco wanted Harry to trust him, but he didn't like the fact that it meant he had to prove himself.

They reached the gated entrance to the villa and Draco excused himself from Hermione and immediately went over to the tents and other workers to begin his task. He knew Harry probably could see the wall Draco was putting around himself, but he honestly couldn't help it. It's not like they could show any sort of emotion in public between each other anyway.

He heard Derek, the head decorator, giving orders, and set to work with the others, pushing his thoughts out of his mind for a minute...well...trying to.

Harry watched as Draco walked away with the other workers, not saying a word. The blonde was acting distant and he didn't know why. It frightened him a bit. Maybe it was his fault, and he had unconciously broken the one link of friendship they held?

He hated the confusion in his head. Was last night real? Did they honestly mean what they said, and could they keep it up? Did Draco even want to? He couldn't think about it...at least right now. He had to focus on the wedding at the moment, and maybe later, when they were alone, he could figure everything out.

Ginny came up and grabbed his arm, dragging him towards the altar and rambling about something he didn't particularly care about.

"Oh Harry, snap out of it!" she said annoyed by his lack of response.

"Sorry." he said, paying attention to her.

"I was just saying that I'm glad we at least get to walk together in the wedding. It feels like I never see you anymore, like we aren't close."

"You know why Ginny..."

"I know Harry, but You-Know-Who isn't here now! He isn't there at Headquarters! That's the dumbest excuse and I'm sick of you running from this. What's the real reason? Do you not care anymore?"

"No Gin, that's not it. Honestly, I love you, but I just...I don't know. I guess I'm just stressed about everything."

"I understand, but just spend some time with me and relax. This is your time away." Ginny smiled.

Harry smiled warmly back and squeezed her hand. It was times like this that he was happy with Ginny. How she honestly cared about his well being, but didn't treat him like he was helpless. It meant more to him that she knew.

"Well, mum looks like she's going to have a cow. We better get started." she laughed.

Harry agreed and they both went to their places, ready to rehearse.

GIMMEGIMMEMOREGIMMEGIMMEMORE

Remus wasn't in the best mood as he strode down the halls of Headquarters on his way to the hospital wing. The Minister showed up and Remus had to bite his tongue nearely the entire time so as not to make the man angry. All Scrimegor did was talk horribly about Harry and Dumbledore, then complain about how neither of them supported him. Remus simply nodded and smiled, wishing for Albus to come in the door and save him. It took longer than he wanted, but about an hour later, the old man came bustling into the room. Remus didn't stay long after that and immediately flood to Headquarters from Grimmauld Place.

He briskly walked through the long hall to the hospital entrance. He wanted to fix those cupboards before anyone else noticed he had rummaged through them. Of course he wanted to check on Severus too. He really was grateful for that time of sleep last night. It gave him a chance to think about what he wanted to do.

Remus pushed open the door and immediately looked at Severus' bed. The sight nearly knocked him on the floor. Severus wasn't in bed... Remus ran to the bed, feeling the sheets, as if the sight wasn't enough.

"Severus!" he called, dashing into the side bathroom. The man wasn't there either. He ran back out of the hospital room and down the long corridor. The whole while he yelled for Severus. Where the bloody hell was everyone? He checked the kitchen, the study, the den, no luck. He dashed up the stairs and towards the man's room, his last real hope. Dread filled his mind as he thought of where Snape might be. What if the Dark Lord had called? Had Severus woken up and answered? This thought urged him on as he sped through the halls towards Severus' room. Remus barged through the door.

"Severus?!"

A thud came from his right and he looked to see Severus fall back against the dresser, wand at the ready.

"Bloody hell Lupin." he murmured, putting his wand away.

"Oh Merlin! You're awake. I thought something had happened..." Remus said, nearly falling to his knees.

Snape walked over and helped the other man to the chair. "I'm sorry. I was planning on being down there before anyone came back. I just wanted to change into some fresh clothes. I didn't mean to worry you." he said with all sincereness.

Severus really hadn't meant to be away from the hospital room, but he couldn't stand those clothes anymore. He wanted to be there when Lupin came back.

"It's fine. I'm just glad you're awake. Do you feel alright? Does anything hurt? You really shouldn't be out of bed!" Remus said, panicking with every statement.

"Yes I feel fine, no nothing hurts that doesn't normally, and yes I needed to get out of that bed." Severus said casually, walking over to the dresser and folding his clothes back.

"You're sure? I still think Madame Pomfrey should check you." Remus said.

"Alright. I will floo for her when we go back downstairs." Severus assured the other man.

He didn't know why he was being so coorprative...maybe it was because he felt responsible for worrying Remus. Snape looked over at the light haired man. He could see the guilt swimming in his eyes. Remus was blaming himself again... Snape looked back down at his clothes.

At first he wondered why the werewolf kept the blame, but realized that if he were in the same position, he would probably feel the same guilt, he just wouldn't show it as easily. He honestly didn't blame Lupin for this, he learned from before not to hold grudges for so long. He was about to say something to ease the other's fear, but he froze when he felt arms embrace him from behind, and heard the sobs muffled into his back.

"I'm..so ..s-sorry." Remus whispered into the Potion's master's back.

Severus felt his heart wrench and fought to hold his composure when he felt the tears soak his shirt.

"I didn't mean to. I..I thought you would be..be safe...this time. I'm so sorry. Please..forgive me..." Remus breathed.

Severus reached up and grabbed the arms wrapped around his middle. He loosened them and turned around and reached for Remus' face, lifting it to face his. He stared into Remus' tear filled eyes and knew he had to be strong for him.

"Don't. Don't be sorry for something you can't help." he said, letting his grip fall to Lupin's shoulders. "I was safe, but Potter wasn't. I knew you would never forgive yourself if anything ever happened to him. When he wandered off, I placed myself between you and him. That was all there was to it. Either he would get hurt, or I would. Even though I sometimes despise Potter, I wouldn't let him go through that. Its too unnerving at his age, I would know. Now enough of this. Let's go get Pomfrey and get my clearance." Severus said, trying to ease the conversation in another direction.

Remus nodded and wiped his tears away. He took a few steps towards the door and let Severus lead the way when they left the room. He still couldn't shake his guilt, but he wouldn't try not to let Severus know, since he didn't want to talk about it.

Walking a few feet ahead of Remus, Severus was calming his nerves. He still felt the warmth from where Remus had held him. It drove him mad. He wanted to stay like that, but he didn't want to be unsure of whatever this was. He wanted to be in control.

He sighed as he fell back, letting his pace fall into stride with Lupin's. He just wanted to get cleared by Pomfrey, so that's what he would focus on for the moment.

BRAINBLOCKAGEBUTITSCOMING

"Up more! To the left!" called Derek as he gave orders to those setting up the final tent flags and decorations.

Draco was at the top of the ladder, reaching for the rope to tie to the top of the pole. They had been at it for nearly two hours now and were almost done. He was becoming a pro at this. Draco took a moment as the other side of the tent was being raised, for him to see how everything else was coming along.

The refreshment table had been set up, along with the eating area. Rows and rows of chairs were lined facing the altar where Bill and Fleur would be married. Other tents and sitting areas were scattered about, some for relaxation, others for dancing, some were just there for looks. He heard Bill clap his hands and laugh jubillantly, giving his future wife a huge bear hug.

"Perfect! Practice over everyone! I know your tired, and we want you ready for tomorrow!" Bill laughed to his family.

"Finally! I'm starvin!" Ron sighed.

"You're always hungry." Hermione smiled, taking his hand as they walked towards the porch of the villa.

Draco let his eyes scan over the group, spotting Harry in conversation with Mr. Weasley.

"Good lad. See you inside." said the older man as he patted Harry on the back. He jogged in stride with his wife, catching up to his family for lunch.

Ginny came and stood next to Harry, grabbing his hand and talking quietly to him. The raven haired boy smiled warmly and covered their clasped hands with his other. He said something Draco didn't quite catch and Ginny pushed herself up against him. Before he knew it, Draco felt a plummetting sensation in his stomach as he lost his footing and fell several feet to the ground, ladder falling after him. His head smashed into the ground and the ladder on top of his stomach.

Naturally the commotion got everyone's attention as Derek and several other men dashed to where Malfoy lay on the ground. He had landed flat on his back and the wind was knocked out of him.

He clutched his eyes shut as he struggled to regain his breath. He felt the ground shake underneath him, then heard a worried voice over heard.

"Liam! Are you alright?" Harry asked when he reached the boy's side.

"Oh! Dear gracious me!" Mrs. Weasley said, bustling out of the house towards the crowd gathered around Draco.

Pain laced his head as he cracked open his eyes. A blurry image of Harry swayed above him.

"Liam!?" was all he heard before he blacked out.

"I don't see what the big deal is. All he did was land on his back." Ron murmured.

"Ron, he fell from the top of the big tent and landed on his back. He must have hit his head when he fell." Harry said, running a wet cloth on Draco's forehead, and brushing the red locks of Liam out of the way.

They had carried Liam into the house and he was now laying on the sofa. Arrangements were being made to floo him back to the hotel.

"Well I hope your cousin is going to be alright." Derek said to Ginny, patting her on the back.

"Oh, uh yeah, me too." she stammered, forgetting that he was posing as their cousin.

"He helped us alot, really gave the team some extra hands." he smiled.

Ron just rolled his eyes and leaned back in the chair.

"Well, we are off. Just finished the last decorations. Good luck with the wedding!" Derek waved, gathering his men to leave.

"Thanks for all your help, really..." Mr. Weasley began chatting, leading him away to the fireplace.

The others just sat around the den waiting. Fred and George had left already to check on the shop. So it was the rest of the Weasley clan, minus Percy, plus the Delacours.

"Harry, do you think you can manage to get him to the room from here?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"Yes mam. You all can go ahead, its not problem. I'll just hold him. They said we shouldn't need a harness, seeing as he's just knocked out."

"Well, alright dear. Are you sure you don't want someone else to watch him so you can still sightsee?"

"Yes, I'm sure. I don't mind watching after him. He did the same for me." he said politely.

"Alright, I understand. Well if you need anything, just let us know." she smiled, rounding up her children.

The Weasley's said goodbye, Ginny kissing him on the cheek before she skipped off to the fireplace.

"See you later." he smiled.

They soon were all gone, leaving just Harry and Draco. He said goodbye to the Delacours, who wished for Draco's wellbeing, then picked up Liam.

It was a bit of a hassel, flooing with Draco in his arms, but he managed. Harry practically tripped out of the fireplace into his hotel room, but safely got Draco to the bed.

He went over to the door and locked it, then shut the curtains on the window before he took off the glamour charm. Red hair faded to blonde and Liam's bulky frame shrank to the delicate figure of Draco Malfoy.

Harry lay on the bed beside Draco, hoping he wasn't too seriously hurt. He rested his head in the crook of Draco's neck and caressed the blonde's arms. What strange turn of events had led them to this point? What insane thought drugged his mind to even allow him to consider having any sort of secret relationship with Draco Malfoy? But now that he was in it, he didn't want to give it up. It made him feel dangerous. Like he could finally do something without someone else watching his every move..giving him permission. Malfoy was the only one who never really cared who Harry Potter was, or gave a damn that he was the Boy-Who-Lived. Sure that probably had alot to do with his upbringing, but even now, Draco still didn't care. Harry was just another annoying prat to him. That went far in Harry's eyes, no matter how much it didn't make sense.

He felt his eyes droop. Blaise should be stopping by soon...but maybe he could get a quick nap in before then. Draco might be woken up by then too. Before Harry knew it, he felt sleep over take him.

Harry opened his eyes and found himself in a dark dank tunnel. Where was he? He could hear someone screaming and it unnerved him. Harry crept closer to the sound, unnable to control his movements.

"No!" came a blood curtling scream.

The sound was chilling. Torturous wails bounced off the walls from the single voice crying out. The closer he walked through the ankle deep water, a light shined brighter off the stone surrounding him. It was just around the corner now, wherever his legs were taking him. He could sense it. The screams still over powered the scene unraveling before him.

As he rounded the bend, he saw cloaked figures, at least a dozen or so clustered near a wall. He neared them, coming right in between them, yet no one seemed to notice as he moved beside them. Death Eaters.

He moved his attention from the ones around him, to the scene before him. Voldemort stood before him, facing the wall of the tunnel. On the wall was chained the battered and bloody form of Draco Malfoy.

"Draco!" he called out, running towards him. He tried to reach out to him, but he couldn't...his hand melted into the other boy at the touch. He removed his hand and looked up at the broken blonde. His face was coated with dirt and dried blood. It was matted in his hair that hung down around his face. Draco was breathing heavily, struggling with every inhale. His head hung limp at his side and his eyes were squeezed shut.

"Crucio!" rang out the voice of Lucius Malfoy.

Raspy screams echoed from the boy on the wall as he writhed in pain.

"Draco, you must learn to control your pain. Do not let it overcome you." Voldemort hissed. "You will be strong. Stop resisting, it is your destiny."

"No!" Draco yelled.

"Boy you are marked! Accept your destiny and join us willingly." Lucius urged.

Harry tore his eyes from the two and looked at Draco's arm. The Dark Mark was seared into his skin, taunting Harry like the evil that it was.

"Harry.." he heard Draco croak out.

Harry looked up at the blonde. Blood shot eyes bore into his own. "Harry.." he whispered.

He felt himself being pulled away from the scene. "Harry" echoed around him.

"Harry."

Harry gasped and opened his eyes. His hotel ceiling was the only thing he could see.

"Awake now are you?" he heard Draco drawl.

Harry gathered his senses. He was fine...it was just a dream. Nearly the same dream he had had a couple of weeks ago, but a dream none the less. What did it mean?

"Hey, are you alright?" Draco asked, leaning over.

"What...oh. I should be asking you that!" Harry remembered, sitting up and looking at the blonde.

"Ha, I'm fine. It was just a rough fall." Draco smirked, leaning back on the bedrest.

"I'll say." Harry said.

"At least I had all that extra muscle to cushion my fall. Only one more day after this of having to look like a Weasley. I hope I can make it."

"Oh it isn't that bad." Harry sighed.

"How would you know, you never have to charm yourself. Which by the way, doesn't make sense, because one would think you of all people should be the one with a disguse." Draco mused, getting up to stretch.

"Yeah, well for some reason Death Eaters don't tend to attack me in public, but we couldn't take a chance with you." Harry said.

Draco didn't answer. He was in a bad mood, but didn't really want to argue with Harry about nothing, so he kept his mouth shut. This of course would make them argue for a reason.

"Hey what's wrong with you?" Harry asked, getting up from the bed.

Draco just sneered and looked at himself in the mirror. What the hell was wrong with him? Was he just mad about Ginny?

"Malfoy!"

Draco could tell Harry was getting mad, but for some reason he didn't really care. But for the sake of everything, he didn't feel like fighting now.

"What? Okay, nothing is wrong. I just have a headache alright."

Harry didn't believe him, but couldn't deny that it would be a reason for Draco's bad mood. The blonde simply sighed and locked himself in the bathroom.

Harry clenched his hands at his sides. Oh how he wanted to strangle Malfoy. It would make things so much easier! Then that dream popped in his head.

He remembered it from before, but some of the details were different. This one seemed less foggy, and the events more real to him than anything. He might have worried about Draco's safety if he didn't realize that Malfoy was safe, here with him. The prophecy... if only it hadn't been destroyed, then he would have a chance at learning if Draco, or anyone for that matter, could help him defeat Voldemort.

A knock on the door drew him out of his thoughts and he went up to the door.

"Who's there?"

"Kyle!" came the cheerful voice of Blaise.

Harry cracked the door, made sure it was him, then let the other boy in, locking the door behind them.

Blaise took off his glamour charm and looked around the room.

"Where's my little beauty queen?" he called happily.

"Oh, um, I wouldn't do that if I ..." Harry warned.

Draco swung the door open in the middle of Harry's sentence, death glare on Blaise.

"There he is!" Blaise squealed, arms wide open for a hug.

Draco stalked over to his best friend and pushed him roughly. The boy fell onto the bed.

"Oh, getting a little restless are we?" Blaise joked.

Draco's icy eyes narrowed and he pulled out his wand. Blaise still smirked on the bed.

"Ready when you are babe."

"Draco, come on, just stop." Harry said, getting between the two.

He grabbed Draco's hand and pulled the wand out. Draco looked up into Harry's eyes and melted at the worried stare. He immediately relaxed and walked over to sit on the chair.

"Everything alright here Draco?" Blaise asked.

"Fine. Just have a headache."

"Did you still want to sightsee?" Harry asked. "Because we can stay in if you aren't up to it."

"No, its our last day to sightsee. I want to go." Draco said, pulling his shoes on.

"Well what do you gents want to do?" Blaise said, sitting up.

"I don't really know what's in Paris." Harry admitted.

"I don't particularly have a preference. I just want to see as much as I can."

"Alright, well, we've already seen the Lourve, and the Arch de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. So how about we see Musee d'Orsay, and the Notre-Dame Cathedrale. Maybe stop by Napoleon's Tomb. Oh, and we simply must go to Disneyland Paris. Its open late so thats perfect. Then we can top it all off with a bit of midnight ice-skating if we aren't too tired. What do you say to that?" Blaise offered.

"Sounds great!" Harry said.

"Let's go then." Draco said, getting up. His bad mood was still apparent.

Harry waited a moment, a little wary, then opened the door after the other two put up their charms. He headed off down the hall.

Blaise caught Draco before he left the room. "You sure you're alright mate? You seem off a bit."

"Yeah I'm fine. I just have that headache, and sometimes I just want to hex Potter, but he didn't really do anything, so whatever." Draco explained exasperately.

"Okay, nothing's changed then." Blaise joked.

He slapped his friend on the back and they caught up with Harry, who was holding up the elevator at the end of the hall.

"What took so long?" he asked when they got in.

"Just making sure he's alright. Gave him a quick checkup, you know." Blaise teased with a wink.

"Uh..." Harry teetered a bit.

"He's kidding. He just wanted to make sure I was alright." Draco assured, giving Harry a deep look.

Blaise watched this interaction with much fascination. Oh yes, he was definitely going to have to test this throughout the day. Draco's assurance that nothing was going on the other day only made him suspect something even more. He wanted to see just how the two reacted to each other, and alot of flirting with both of them would do it.

When they reached the bottom floor, Blaise stepped between them and linked his arms in theirs. "Let's get going you two!" he smiled, dragging them both along with a smile.

LALALALASOITSCOMINGALONGITHINKLALALA

"Well everything seems fine Severus. You've recovered very nicely." Madame Pomfrey said once she finished her checkup.

"Thank you. You see Lupin, nothing to worry about." Snape sighed.

"I just wanted to make sure.."

"Well, it's only natural." Poppy said. "Besides after everything that has been happening lately, you'd think I should just have a personal business."

"I hope its not a trouble to you. We really don't mean to call on you so often, but with everything so secretive we have no where else to turn." Remus explained.

"Oh its no trouble at all. With school out I have nothing to do. This is keeping me in top shape for the start of term." she smiled.

"Yes, they should all be bellyaching by the second day of class." Severus smirked.

"You think they wait till the second? Oh no, I get them on the first." she laughed.

"Well once again, Poppy, we thank you so much for coming to check him."

"Not a problem. You know where to find me if you need me. Good day to the both of you." she said, showing herself out.

"Satisfied?" Severus said, getting up from the chair.

"Yes." Lupin sighed.

Snape merely grunted, then headed off down the hall.

"Where are you going?" Lupin asked.

"Off to check my potions. Half of them I'm sure I'll have to botch. I just hope the important ones are salvageable." Severus explained when Lupin caught up to him.

"Oh."

"What?"

"Nothing. I just hope I didn't ruin too many of..."

"Stop blaming yourself for everything that goes wrong Lupin. If anything it was Potter who ruined my potions by being outside in the first place. You only did what was in your nature at the time."

Remus didn't say anything more, but walked in silence. He wasn't even sure why he was still following Severus around. He was sure the Potions Master was sick of him... Besides, he really wanted to get back to his research, and he was sure Severus needed peace to work with his potions.
"Well, I'm going to go back up to the library. Maybe go to bed early." Lupin said, stopping in his tracks.

Severus nearly jolted to a stop and turned to look at the light haired man behind him.

"Oh, alright then. I suppose that is logical. Resting for the wedding tomorrow?" Severus asked, completely taken off guard by Lupin's want to get away.

"Uhh, yeah."

"I think I might go too. When are you leaving?"

"I'll be gone early. I wanted to stop and pick up a few things first." Remus said.

"Right. Well, goodnight then."

Remus nodded, then turned and walked back down the hallway. Severus was totally taken back. Remus was being very distant all of a sudden. Nothing like his usual self, but quiet and reserved. He almost felt as if their roles had been switched, and he had an urge to keep the other man around. Well...

Well, at least Lupin wasn't on his back twenty four seven like he had been. Severus grumbled and stalked down the stairs to the potions lab. It would be much easier to concentrate on his potions with the annoying werewolf out of the way.

He didn't like how Lupin was acting though. Maybe he would floo Albus later and have him check in on him. Yes, he would do that, till then, he would focus on his potions. Hopefully his projects for the Dark Lord weren't completely ruined. That's something he couldn't afford.

He swept over to one of the large cauldrons and cursed. Of course, one of his most important project potions the Dark Lord was ruined. He had to dispose of it quickly or it would erode away the metal. That potion had taken weeks to make and was exteremly powerful...but maybe, it would give him a better excuse... Yes, he must remember to check with Albus when he floo'd for him.

Severus continued making several mental notes, as he walked through his potions, checking each one for faults. But try as he might, he couldn't help but wonder what Remus Lupin was doing...

ITSTAKINGFOREVERIMSORRY!

It was near 11:30 pm by the time the three boys made it to the ice rink near the Eiffel Tower. Draco had, once again, a rather annoying day. Yes, he did enjoy sightseeing and finally going to Disney-Paris, but having to deal with Blaise's insessant flirting drove him mad. How could he stand being best friends with the prat? Oh right, the only other people to deal with were Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle...no thanks.

Harry was having the time of his life, and just that little aspect made it better for Draco. He had never seen the other boy so open, so free and happy. He even evaded Blaise's come-ons, much to Draco's pleasure. At the moment the other two were talking non-stop.

"Can you believe Liam's never done it?" Blaise said.

"What have I never done?..." Draco asked, hearing his name.

"You've never gone ice skating!?" Harry exclaimed.

"Yes, I have, once. Kyle took me."

"Like a million years ago! Even then, you fell once, and never wanted to try again!"

Draco merely snorted and kept walking.

"Wow, I don't know why, but I just assumed you would know how." Harry said.

"Oh please. Like my father would ever let me participate in such a muggle sport."

"Well, Kyle did it..."

"Yes, but my father is not exactly like Liam's if you know what I mean. Less strict." Blaise admitted.

"Ahh. Well, you're going to try it tonight!" Harry said.

"Ha, good luck trying to get me out there."

"Oh, you're going Liam Weasley, even if we have to drag you."

Draco scowled. He didn't like the idea..

They reached the booth and rented three pairs of skates, then they laced up the boots.

"Look, me and Kyle will go first, get our ice legs, then we will come and get you." Harry said.

Before Draco could respond, the other two took off. Draco felt highly inadequate compared to them. Sure he knew Blaise was an excellent skater, but Potter?

The raven haired teen whipped around the rink like it was nothing, turning and pivoting, letting the wind blow through his hair. He had a huge smile on his face as he glided on the ice, a touch of rememberance in his eyes. Draco couldn't take his eyes off of him.

Little did he know that Blaise was off to the side, grinning like mad at the scene. He had noticed it all day. Everytime he flirted with Harry, Draco's eyes went cold, though he tried his best to hide it. Blaise even noticed a bit of the same when the cards were turned, but Harry looked more, apprehensive than cold. It was obvious Draco felt something for the other boy. Well, he would take the mickey out on him later.

The two skated back to where Malfoy waited.

"Where did you learn to skate like that?" Draco asked Harry.

"Uhh, kind of a long story. But one day, when the Dursleys took Dudley to go skating, a man threw out his skates because he thought he broke them. I fixed them up, and whenever they would take Dudley, or I was home alone, I would take my skates and give it a try. I eventually got better and better." Harry explained.

Draco nodded.

"So are you ready?" Blaise asked.

"I can't go out there, I don't know how!" Draco sneered.

"Here, I'll stay with you the whole time." Harry offered

"I swear Potter, if you let me fall, you'll die." Draco glared.

"I won't let you fall. Do you trust me?"

Draco waited a moment before he gave in. "Yes."

"Then let's go."

"Uhh, hey you guys, I'm gonna go get a snack or something at the stand over there. When you're done, just come to the bleachers. No rush." Blaise said, smirking.

"Oh alright." Harry said.

Draco on the other hand, narrowed his eyes at Blaise's mischevious look. What was he up to?

"Come on!" Harry said.

He eased Draco on to the ice carefully. Draco clutched Harry's arm like a lifeline. Harry couldn't help but laugh because he had never seen Malfoy so frightened in his life. Even though his face looked like Liam, Harry could still see Draco with the way he contorted his look.

They took it slow at first, Harry skating backwards so he could hold Draco's hands as he led him out on the ice.

Draco had his legs locked tight and he more relied on Harry to pull him than anything else.

"Loosen up, bend you're knees a little." Harry said.

Draco did as he was told, but his grip tightened on Harry.

They moved around the ice slowly, letting Draco get used to the feel of skates on the ice. It was working. He was loosening up and getting the feel of things after a few minutes.

"Alright, I'm gonna drop one hand." Harry said.

Draco's look made him bust out laughing.

"Don't worry, I won't let you fall."

Draco nodded and wobbled a little when Harry took his hand away. He struggled for a moment, but regained his balance as Harry began to move.

"See, this isn't so bad." Harry said.

They had gotten up to a normal pace, skating around, hand in hand. Harry smiled brightly, and Draco couldn't help but have a small smile himself. He had never gone this long before without falling.

"Hold on." Harry said.

Draco gripped Harry's hand, and the teen began to skate a bit faster.

"Uh. Harry..." Draco stammered, his eyes growing wide.

The boy just laughed and kept going.

"Harry!"

But it was all for naught. Harry just kept laughing, dragging the redhead along behind him, who now clutched with both hands.

Harry went faster and did large circles, causing Draco to curse.

"Oh shit shit shit shit, Harry!" he squealed.

"You're fine!"

It was adorable to hear him whimper behind him. Why he thought it was he didn't know. Harry led him to the most abandoned corner and halted to a stop. The abrupt movement caused Draco to falter and stumble, but Harry caught him before he lost his balance.

They just looked at each other for a moment, the fog from their breaths mingling around them as Draco still clutched to Harry as he wrapped his arms around the boy to keep his balance.

"See, I told you I wouldn't let you fall." Harry whispered.

Electricity was running through them and they couldn't contain themselves any longer as they stared into one another's eyes. Harry leaned in to kiss Draco, but stopped half way there. He couldn't do it. Those eyes. Those were the only familiar thing on this body of Liam's. And as much as he wanted to, he couldn't bring himself to kiss Draco while he looked like this.

Draco understood, or thought he did, the second he saw the look in Harry's eyes. He didn't press it, but loosened his grip on the other boy.

"I guess we should go find Kyle." Draco said softly.

"Yeah." Harry nodded, then they both skated their way back through the rink to the side of the bleachers.

They hoped, seeing as the bleachers were on the side, and the corner they had just been in was off to the other side, that Blaise hadn't seen any of that. When they approached him, he looked too involved in his hot chocolate to have even noticed anything else. The two relaxed a bit and took off their skates, getting ready for the walk back to the hotel.

ahhh ok there we go ppl. so sorry it took like a year! i was even gonna add more, but what i wanted to add was like, 3 more scenes and they were long. so i couldnt do it. that will be next chapter. i really didnt wanna do that tho. iwanted to end it at the end of the day, but with what i had planned it would take up another whole chapter practically so i couldnt do it. so dont hate me that not much is happening, its in the part i couldnt add lol. it will be in the next chapter, which hopefully will be up in a few days bcuz its one of those things where u have to write it all in one sitting. anywho. im done blabbing. gimme some reviews and tell me how u think its going. i know u want action, so dont tell me that lol. youll get action, but you would have had to wait longer for anything..ya kno. so yeah, just let me know how u think the story line is going, if your confused about anything, if im forgetting things. cuz i wove this story intricately and i dont wanna miss a thing! so let me know! loves and thanks!

bigred