I am so terribly sorry for the long wait. My only excuse it that I had exams in subjects I'm rubbish in. But I hope you can forgive me and I swear on Salazar's wand that I will try to update sooner next time. The chapter is long and mostly about the New Year's celebration. I didn't want to split it into two chapters, so that's why it's so long. I have figured out a few things I want to do with this story and one of those things is at the end of the chapter. But the rest will be in the upcoming chapters.
Frankie :)
Chapter 23
The day of the New Year's party had arrived and everyone had something to do. Surprisingly it had been Ginny, who had taken over the planning and organising of practically everything that needed to be done. Harry was very grateful for that because he really had no idea where to start. The Malfoy elves were very efficient and hard-working, but it had to be perfect and Harry knew that Ginny and Draco, who had offered his help, were going to make it perfect. It was actually quite amazing to watch former rivals and enemies getting along. Even Ron was being helpful and his attitude towards Draco had improved immensely.
The invites had said 8 o'clock and it was already past noon. The decorations, picked out by the redheaded girl and Draco, were neatly in place and it was starting to look complete. The gazebo in the garden was magically enlarged and charms were placed to keep the chilly wind outside. The green-eyed wizard was on his way upstairs when he heard Draco call out for him.
" Hey, Harry, did Father reset the wards, I haven't felt a shift in them?" Draco asked.
The other teen said " The quests will portkey in, so Lucius said he can't reset them now. "
" Right, the Portkey was set up after our old wards. The letters have started to arrive, I guess people do read the Daily Prophet after all. I set the Howlers on fire and I put the other letters on Father's desk. There were a few death threats too, you should show them to Shacklebolt later." the blonde explained.
Harry sighed with frustration " Why can't people just let it go, I mean is it that hard for them to mind their own damn business?"
" Don't think about it now; you just make sure you get ready for tonight and leave everything else to me." Draco told the other.
Harry gave the younger version of Lucius a smile and climbed the rest of the steps.
X
Severus unlike the rest, was not in a festive mood. But he was never in any kind of mood, so it made no difference to anyone, when the man arrived with a brooding look.
" Lighten up, Sev." Remus teased.
The man whipped around and said in a clipped tone " Do not call me Sev, ever."
" Someone needs a happiness potion." muttered Ginny, who was setting the flowers for the dinner table.
Severus of course heard that and drawled " I hope you're serving something stronger than champagne tonight. I'll need it, I assure you."
Draco smirked " You know where my father keeps his ridiculously expensive whiskey. I'm sure you can help yourself, Severus."
The dark-eyed man gave an almost wicked smile and said " Keep him occupied while I reacquaint myself with his whiskey."
Draco chuckled and explained to the other two in the room " That ghastly thing they call whiskey is Severus's favourite. Somewhat rare and costs more than you can imagine."
" Severus has a bottle of it in his room at Hogwarts, it was actually rather good." Remus said.
Ginny scrunched her nose and said " I'll never understand how you can drink it. Fred gave me Firewhiskey once and I felt awful in the morning. I decided to stick with pumpkin juice."
" I'm not a big fan either." the blonde teen said.
Remus snorted and told the teens " You have a bit of growing up to do before you can appreciate it. Besides, getting drunk is not the point."
" What is the point then?" Ginny asked.
Remus thought about it and said " I actually have no idea."
Draco laughed and said knowingly " It's the whole image and how stuck up they look with a glass of expensive liquor in their hand. All stuffy purebloods do that."
Harry, who had entered the room asked " Stuffy purebloods? I hope you don't mean your dad, because I assure you there is nothing stuffy about him."
Draco said after seeing Harry's impish smile " I am not having this conversation with you. I was perfectly happy picturing my father as someone who did not have a sex, before you came along."
" I'm sure he saw you the same way, before you brought your redheaded devil home." Ginny said to Draco, making the blonde red in the face.
Harry asked " Redheaded devil? Do I even want to know?"
"Fred and George used to think that Bill was the coolest thing after Quidditch and with the whole Rock star look, they said Bill was like the devil or something. I'm sure Draco can appreciate the sexy Rock star look my dear brother is going for." the redheaded girl explained.
Harry smirked and said " Enough with embarrassing my sort of stepson."
" I just realised that no one really knows about Bill and Draco. Everyone found out about you and Lucius in the paper, but almost no one knows about the other Malfoy conquest." Ginny said with mild worry.
Harry sighed " I don't think the people coming tonight will give them a hard time. Luna and Dean know what Draco is like now and Andromeda is Draco's aunt, she won't be too hard to convince. And the rest can think what they like. Same goes when it comes to Lucius and I. They either accept it or they won't. I don't want to give the same speech I gave everyone else already. I defeated Voldemort, no one wants to mess with me now."
" A knight in shining armour." Draco said.
Ginny fake-swooned " Oh, will you defend my honour, fearless knight?"
" Aren't you two a riot of laughs." Harry said flatly.
Ginny said " Just a healthy dose of teasing. Now be a good knight and help me set up some things in the drawing room."
Before they could leave the room , Ginny told Draco " And you can help Ron with his secret plan. Honestly, he's clueless."
" What secret plan?" asked Harry when they were walking away.
From the distance, Ginny's voice was heard " The plan to help Ron get his head out of his arse and make Neville see that Ron is a big boy now. Hermione thinks that Ron's emotional range is now bigger than a teaspoon."
X
The preparations were all mostly done and the Lord of the Manor was rather pleased with the youngest Weasley and of course his son, who had helped the girl. The twins had brought over their best fireworks for their shop and personal collection. It was nice to just let others take care of things and Lucius actually didn't mind giving up the control outside the bedroom as well. It gave him and Harry more time together and it gave Draco a chance to take charge as the future Lord Malfoy. It was nearing 7 o'clock and the Weasleys were all present, except Percy, who was in Norway, improving wizarding relations with the wizards and witches of the Northern region. And of course the Weasley woman with the flaming hair was missing from the gathering. Arthur had for numerous reasons spent the previous night at Shell Cottage. Molly was still in a fit of rage after the morning paper and naturally Arthur wanted to avoid her at all costs. She had no way of knowing where Arthur was going, something that everyone was happy about. Molly was punishing her own children for things that the woman herself had started. But no one wanted to ruin their mood by thinking about Molly. She was going to be far away from their mind.
Upstairs, Ron was getting ready with Draco helping him.
" Would you stop moving or I swear to Salazar you will feel pain." Draco said.
Ron whined pitifully " I'm such a mess."
" Among other things, yes you are. Now stop fidgeting and let me tie this stupid tie you insisted on wearing." Draco gritted through his teeth.
Ron said " Harry said I'd look good in a muggle suit."
" Yes, dashing... Now sit still and stop talking." the blonde said.
A knock on the door interrupted Ron's answer and when a head poked in, Draco said " Oh look, it's the smarter part of the Golden Trio."
Hermione asked as she came in " What happened to you, Ron?"
" You reckon I look good in this?" Ron asked.
Draco muttered " Bleeding gorgeous."
" Ginny said you'd be upstairs and that Draco was helping you get dressed. Which is probably the oddest thing I have ever heard or seen." Hermione explained with a small smile.
Draco said " Weasley here insisted on wearing a tie."
" I'll take over, I think Bill was looking for you, Draco." Hermione said pointedly.
The blonde walked towards the door and said to Hermione in a low voice " Thank you."
Hermione said " Well, you were on the verge of strangling him with the tie."
X
Downstairs, Arthur and Bill were talking about Arthur's plans for Molly.
" The papers are being drawn up as we speak. Lucius's legal people are being quite helpful and their trying to find a loophole in the contract." Arthur said.
Bill asked " How did it go with the rest? I know Ginny was upset."
" They were all shocked and sad, because Molly's their mother. Of course it came as a surprise that she would be this vindictive. But they handled it well. It's not the right time to feel down, we should be celebrating." Arthur suggested to the younger man.
The curse breaker asked " Mum doesn't know where you are, right?"
" No, I haven't talked to her since she sent those Howlers. I don't think she would be very happy to listen what I have to tell her. The solicitors said that I should use her mental illness and unstable behaviour against her. I'd hate to hurt her, but she has hurt my family and Merlin knows what she'll do when everything comes to light. You never know with her." the older man said.
" Do you really think she's capable of harming someone?" Bill asked.
Arthur said " I don't know, but she isn't who we thought she was. Do we really know what she's capable of?"
Bill saw Draco coming towards them and said " No, I guess we don't."
Draco, who joined the two men said " I almost killed your brother with a muggle tie."
" Ginny said that she sent you to help Ron." Bill chuckled and pulled the blonde against his side.
Arthur asked " Is Harry upstairs?"
" He's getting ready." Draco offered.
Bill asked with concern " Is your dad feeling better?"
"I gave him a potion for the headache." the blonde told his boyfriend.
Arthur, who did not quite understand, asked "Lucius is feeling unwell?"
"He has been having headaches since yesterday morning." said the young blonde.
Bill chuckled "Harry has been taking his role as a nursemaid rather seriously."
The mentioned teen had just come around the corner and heard the comment, he said "I'll whack you on the head for that Bill Weasley!"
"That's my cue, see you later, Dad." said Bill and hurried out of the room.
Draco said "It's half passed seven, meaning that the guests are likely to arrive soon. I still need to get ready."
"What? I thought you were ready?" Harry questioned.
The blonde raised an eyebrow and said "A Malfoy always takes time to get ready."
"Is there some kind of manual saying how to be a Malfoy?" Harry asked.
Draco laughed and said "Don't worry will make a Malfoy out of you, Harry."
X
Kingsley Shacklebolt was the first to arrive, with him was Auror Nymphadora Tonks.
"Harry, how've you been." Tonks immediately moved to hug the green-eyed wizard.
Harry said "I've been good. But look at you, wearing a dress."
"Figured I'd act like a lady tonight. It's not every day you get to see the inside of Malfoy Manor." Tonks said cheekily.
Kingsley, with his deep voice, said "Harry Potter, you have outdone yourself this time."
"Outdone how?" Harry asked.
The Minister said "I would have never imagined that I'd be standing in Malfoy Manor and celebrating the coming of a new year."
"I'm glad you accepted the invitation." the teen said.
Tonks asked "So, is the Daily Prophet making up stories again or has my estranged uncle really swept you off your feet?"
"Are you asking as an Auror or as a friend?" Harry asked.
Tonks smiled "Don't worry, I think it's romantic. My Auror instincts are telling me that I should trust you. But if you ever need me to teach him a lesson, I'm a Fire Call away."
In the drawing room, the group met with the rest of the guests.
Tonks saw Severus and Remus standing close by and leaned in to ask Harry "Is there something going on between Remus and our resident dungeon bat?"
Harry said "Something, but you'll have to ask them. And don't call him a dungeon bat. I've spent some time with him and he really can be a nice person if he wants to be."
"I say it's about time. I always told Sirius that Snape needed a proper shag. I promise to behave and play nicely." Tonks said with amusement and went off to greet the Weasleys.
Kingsley, who had been silent, asked "I trust you know what you are doing?"
"All due respect, Sir, but it really isn't any of your business. I know what I'm doing and I am not going to let anyone tell me otherwise." Harry said with conviction.
After a passing moment, Shacklebolt smiled and said "I always knew you were hard-headed."
"Stubborn to the core." Harry said.
X
Like clockwork, the other guests started to arrive as well. Luna, with a bright plum-coloured dress and Neville, with a tailored dress robe, were next to arrive. It was a sweet reunion as friends greeted each other.
"Hello, Harry." said Luna with her dreamy voice.
The dark-haired teen replied "It's good to see you."
"Daddy sends his apologies." the girl offered.
Harry asked the blonde girl "How was Romania?"
"Wonderful really. Daddy and I saw the reserve for the dragons. They really are magnificent creatures. Daddy said he's putting them into the next issue of the Quibbler. He also said that the Daily Prophet had no right to print mean things about you and Mr. Malfoy. It's not nice to badmouth people, no matter what the past holds." Luna explained.
The Gryffindor said "Not many see it like that."
"He makes you happy, that is what matters to me." Luna said and gave the boy a kiss on the cheeks.
Neville said " Gran just about had a stroke, but she said that you're a sensible young man and therefore must know what you are doing."
"You're Gran is a sensible woman, Nev. I honestly can't take any more snide comments." Harry sighed.
The other teen asked " Was it Mrs. Weasley?"
" She saw the Daily Prophet and naturally thought that I was such a child and that I couldn't possibly understand what Lucius wanted from me. She sent us Howlers and told us everything she thought about it." the green-eyed wizard filled the other Gryffindor in on the latest news.
"After what happened with her own son, did you really think she'll be alright with it? Add the fact that it's none other than Lucius Malfoy." Neville said.
Luna said "Some people just can't accept the happiness of others."
"I really don't want to talk about Molly Weasley tonight. I should find Lucius before everyone starts to think I have him locked up somewhere." Harry joked.
Neville asked slyly "To have your wicked way with him?"
Harry rolled his eyes and said " Go on and mingle."
Neville offered Luna his hand and they walked into the drawing room, while Harry went upstairs.
The Master bedroom was lit up dimly and Harry couldn't see the blonde anywhere.
" Lucius?" Harry called out.
The teen heard a grunt from the walk-in-closet and went to investigate. He found his blonde lover flicking through the closet, looking possibly edible with just a towel wrapped around his hips.
" Are you planning on getting ready any time in the nearby future?" Harry asked.
The blonde said " I'm planning on being fashionably late. They can't really start without me, you know."
" How's the headache?" the younger man asked as he joined the Malfoy in the unreasonably large wardrobe.
Lucius sighed and said " Slightly better. The potions Severus makes are disgusting, but they work very efficiently."
"Kingsley and Tonks are here, so are Luna and Neville." Harry briefed the man.
Lucius picked out a dress shirt and walked out of the closet. Throwing it on the bed, the blonde dropped the towel. Harry, who had followed the man, groaned at the sight.
"See something you like, Mr. Potter?" Lucius asked.
The younger of the two said "I definitely like what I see."
Closing the gap between them, Harry captured the man's lips into a scorching kiss.
"But as much as I would like to finish this, we don't have time. We have guests, remember." Harry panted out between kisses.
Lucius planted kisses to the teen's neck and said "They can't start without us, Harry."
Harry moaned quietly and said "True, but it would be rude to keep everyone waiting."
Shoving off Harry's dress robe, Lucius tried to coax the younger man "Let them wait."
Harry could feel the blonde's body radiating heat against his own, making the teen shiver in anticipation and need.
"We ought to lock the door, I don't want Draco or anyone else coming in to look for us." said the younger man and completely shrugged off his robe.
With a swift wave of the wand, the door was locked.
" The Minister of Magic is downstairs and we're about to have sex." chuckled the green-eyed wizard.
Lucius removed Harry's belt, all the while saying " It could be the Queen of England for all I care, I'd still want to have my way with you."
Wearing nothing other than his dress shirt, Harry pushed the blonde down on the edge of the bed. Without a second thought, Lucius had Harry straddle him. Showering the younger man with kisses, the blonde wrapped his arms tighter around Harry's waist.
" It's just like that time in your study." Harry said with a grin.
Lucius asked smugly "Which time?"
" Cheeky sod." Harry muttered with a smile.
It was rushed, but heated nevertheless. Harry was thankful for the many hours of Quidditch training he had under his belt, but riding Lucius was nothing like riding a broom. It was still a mystery to Harry how every time with the blonde was like the first. The man was gentle yet firm, Lucius made sure that Harry was taken care of. But Harry himself liked to take care of the blonde, his man. To him, Lucius was everything and the man deserved to have everything.
Easing his way in and out of Harry's tightness, the blonde man tried his best to understand how such a precious and delicate man like Harry had given him a chance. The teen had seen suffering and pain, witnessed death and experienced grief that ran deeper than the roots of the Elder tree. To Lucius, Harry had never really been a child because the weight of the world had been placed on his shoulders long before the boy even started Hogwarts. In a way, Lucius understood the burden Harry carried with him, but it was different from his own.
Unable to hold back any longer, Harry cried out his release and trembled from the bliss that swallowed him whole. It did not take long for Lucius to follow his younger lover.
" I think we forgot the silencing charm again." Harry hummed lazily.
Lucius entangled Harry from his hair and said " We'll find out soon enough."
" Where's your wand? I'm sticky all over." Harry said.
Dropping Harry to the bed, Lucius looked around for his wand. He found the wooden stick on the floor where he had dropped it after casting the needed charms on Harry. Flexing his fingers around it, the blonde cleaned them both up and redressed Harry.
" Love you." Harry said.
Lucius said " Because I do things for you."
"And because you turn me into putty with just your hands." the teen added.
The blonde replied " You are just keeping me around for the sex."
" Amazing, phenomenal, mind-blowing sex." Harry told the man.
Now dressed and looking stunning as ever, Lucius said " I believe we have guests to attend to."
" Just one more thing." said Harry and reached for the deep blue ribbon in the blonde hair.
As the silver-white mane cascaded over the man's shoulder, Harry said " I like it better this way."
Interlacing their hands, Lucius said " Let's give them something to talk about. Shall we?"
X
Andromeda Tonks née Black stepped through the Floo which Harry had especially asked Lucius to open. The woman just couldn't stand Portkeys, much like Harry himself. The woman had been quite surprised when she had received the invitation from Harry. The teen and Andromeda had a somewhat mother and son relationship which had been good on both. After Ted's death, the woman had been in dire need for some understanding and comfort. Nymphadora too had taken her dad's death rather harshly and when the war had ended, they were finally able mourn. During the summer, the green-eyed teen had stayed over a few times and his presence had been a welcomed sight. Andromeda was very keen on the teen, considering him to be like a second child. But she didn't know where to stand. She had no issues with Harry being interested in men, but the wizard's choice had surprised the witch. To think that she had been the chosen bride of the Malfoy heir. Her decision to run away had been the right one, but at times she did think about how her decision had had an effect on the lives in her family. Her life, as well as Lucius's would have been different, but there was no way of knowing how much and in what capacity.
The elegant woman saw Harry and the Malfoy Lord coming down the stairs, hands intertwined and affection shining in their eyes.
" Andy, it is so good to see you." Harry said with a huge smile as he gave the woman a warm hug.
The woman said as she kissed the teen on the cheeks "Harry dear, you're positively glowing."
Lucius was a bit hesitant, but he had not seen the woman standing before him for more than twenty or so years. But a nudge into the ribs from Harry opened the man's vocal chords.
"Andromeda, it is lovely to see you again. Welcome to Malfoy Manor." Lucius said politely, trying to keep the coldness to a minimum.
The former Black sister, who was gazing around the lavish space, said "So all this could have been mine? Tempting indeed, but I must say that living in a place such as this would have been rather downhearted. Though I fear that my decision caused you more harm than good. I grew up with that woman and barely tolerated her shrieking. Narcissa cared for no one but herself."
Lucius spoke up, voice unusually kind "I believe you would have made a wonderful mother for Draco had things gone differently."
"No child deserves a mother such as Narcissa. Perhaps it is not too late for me to show your son some motherly kindness. I am his aunt after all and nothing will change that." Andromeda offered with a smile.
The green-eyed wizard said "If anyone can do it, it's you, Andy."
X
Ron fiddled with the glass he was holding, his mind running a mile a minute. He had seen Neville arrive, looking very smart and dashing in his finely trimmed robes. The redhead had watched the other Gryffindor with hawk's eye, thankful that Blaise Zabini had not arrived yet.
" Why are you hiding, Ron?" asked Luna, who stepped next to the redhead.
Ron spluttered " I'm not hiding, just standing here."
" Is it a nice place to stand then? Why don't you join us, Neville has been asking for you." Luna said in a chipper tone.
Ron asked, surprise and wonder lacing his shaky voice " Asking for me?"
" Come along now." Luna took Ron's hand and dragged him away from his standing place near the corner of the room.
Hermione and Fred both saw the younger redhead being towed by Luna.
" Poor Ronniekins." Fred said.
The girl disagreed " Ronald needs a fair kick up the arse. I've watched him moon over Neville, yet he refuses to say or do anything."
" He is hardly going to profess his undying love." Fred snorted.
Hermione replied "True, but he ought to realise that if he does not act, someone else just might. You would have to be a complete idiot to not see how completely infatuated Ron is. Not that I'm implying that Neville is an idiot."
Fred wrapped an arm around the girl's waist and said " I have a feeling that Ron will make his move soon enough. Now stop worrying about my thick-headed baby brother and enjoy the evening. We should go over and say hello to Tonks' mother."
Hermione sighed " You're right, enough fussing over Ron. He's a big boy, even though he needs a sitter at times."
X
It wasn't long until the tension was gone completely which only made Harry happy. He couldn't help but to steal glances at Lucius, who was surprisingly enough conversing with Arthur and Bill. Little Lucius, as Draco was referred by Tonks, was sitting with Luna. The ice between the two blondes had been broken by the ever cheerful girl, who held no grudges against the Malfoys. Though Draco looked remorseful and a bit unsure in her company, Luna kept smiling like she had no care in the world. The green-eyed teen was glad because his friendship with Luna was important to him and his growing friendship with Draco was something Harry did not want to give up now that he had it. Harry was brought back from his thoughts as he heard Hermione and Fred settle down next to him and Andromeda.
" Tell me, how is your joke shop doing?" Andy asked.
Fred proudly said " Better than ever, actually. George has been managing it whilst I'm at Hogwarts, but I try to help him out as much as I can. Hermione here helps out with the numbers."
" Harry mentioned it in one of his letters that you two are dating. Has he been treating you like a princess, Hermione?" Andromeda teased.
Hermione blushed a little as she said " He has. I couldn't ask for a better boyfriend than Fred."
" My Ted was just the same. A hopeless romantic and sometimes a fool, but the love of my life all the same." the woman said.
Hermione asked " I hope I'm not being rude, but is it true that you were supposed to marry Mr. Malfoy?"
"Our fathers arranged it so, yes. But it did not happen, as I ran away with a muggle therefore shaming my family. Bellatrix was already promised to one of the Lestrange brothers, leaving my father no other choice than marrying off Narcissa. I knew my sister and her ways; the Malfoy fortune was all it took for her to sign away her life. My Ted always said that it was a match made in hell. You could not find two people more different than my sister and Lucius. You would think that since both the Blacks and Malfoys were dark families, who practiced the darkest of magic, it should be perfect. But I knew it to be what it really was, an unhappy marriage with nothing other than resentment and greed holding it together. Lucius may be many things, but underneath it all he does have a heart and perhaps feels more than anyone else. It is not my tale to tell, but growing up alone with no mother leaves scars deeper than any blade can inflict. It makes my heart weep to think that my nephew suffered the same fate as his father before him." spoke Andromeda.
Hermione had never thought about it in such a way, but it made her realise that not everything was black and white, dark and light did not define a person. Her parents had always told her that sometimes the outside did not matter as much as the inside.
Andromeda said to Harry " I am glad that you have each other. It may not be perfect or easy, but life hardly ever is. You just have to make the best of it by being there and giving a piece of yourself, not expecting to be given anything back. Ted and I had out share of fights and sometimes we hated as fiercely as we loved, but at the end of the day all that mattered was what we had and who we had it with."
Harry said softly " I know it's not going to be easy and I know that there is a chance that it will all blow up in my face, but right now it is perfect. I may be young, but I know that nothing lasts forever. But for once in my life I've decided to be selfish and just take something for myself. I may not last, but I am willing to risk it."
" You, my dear, deserve all the love and happiness in this world. And if anyone gives you any trouble at all, I know a few nasty hexes that can make them reconsider." Andy told him firmly.
Fred smiled and said " As honorary brothers, George and I have a duty to prank anyone, who dares to say a bad word against you or your sexy Slytherin."
" Is there something I should know, Fred Weasley." Hermione asked in a joking manner.
Andy grinned and said " The Malfoy charm can turn even the straightest of men into mindless Hufflepuffs. It is no secret that half of Hogwarts used to trail after Lucius. It was quite amusing to watch actually. During the Quidditch season, girls from all Houses of Hogwarts and a few boys, all tried to catch him in the shower after practice."
Hermione sniggered and said " I guess it runs in the family. Draco too seemed to think that he was Merlin's blessing for both genders."
Fred said " I didn't know Draco's dad was on the Slytherin team."
Harry said " He played chaser for three years."
" Wicked." the redhead said.
X
" Even at holidays I am surrounded by Gryffindors and teenagers." Severus said to Remus.
The werewolf said " It is a cheerful event and no one cares about your scowling. "
" Look at them, being nauseatingly happy and fluffy with each other." the dark-haired man drawled.
Lupin understood what Severus meant. It made sense to Remus why Severus might feel a bit pushed aside by his best friend now that he was with Harry. It reminded Remus the time when he and Lily had been the best of friends. After James and Lily had gotten together, Remus too had felt a bit rejected by his best friend. Lily no longer had time to study with him in the library or go on walks. Severus too was feeling like he was being chucked to the side.
" Lucius is still your brother and friend, he won't forget about you. I know what it's like when suddenly you're the odd one out, your best friend no longer having time for you." Remus said.
Severus asked " Potter and Lily?"
" James was my friend, but Lily was my best friend up until they got together. She was like me; both of us loved to study and learn, she was a good listener." Lupin said.
" She was." Snape said.
After a little pause, Remus said " I'd like to take you out for lunch tomorrow if you're free."
" It's not like I'm doing anything." Severus drawled.
Lupin smiled and said " You might fool others, but I see right through you."
"I have no idea what you mean." the man countered.
Remus smirked " You like me as much as I like you."
" Is that so?" Severus raised an eyebrow at the other man.
" I'm going to chase after you until you admit it. You told me to connect with the wolf more and I took your advice. You're a smart man, Severus, you know what wolves are like when it comes to our companions. " Remus explained.
Before Severus could answer, Tonks came over and said " Well, fancy seeing you two here."
" Nice seeing you again, Tonks." Lupin said kindly.
Severus bit out " Yes, lovely to see you, Nymphadora."
" Decided to come out from your cave? You could use some sun, Severus." Tonks teased.
Remus chided " Now don't be mean, Dora."
" Fine, I'll behave like I promised Harry. If I can wear a fancy dress, I can be civil with Snape." Tonks said.
Nymphadora did a twirl to show off her dress. Excusing himself, Severus made a move to leave.
" So, tell me about you and Lord Darkness over there. Harry didn't give me any details, but I know that there is something to tell." Dora said.
Remus sighed " Perhaps there is, but I know what you're like. You're worse than some of the girls in Hogwarts when it comes to gossiping."
" I won't say a thing, Auror's honour." Tonks said whilst placing her hand over her heart.
The werewolf said " I asked him out to dinner, he said yes. We've been out a few times, it's not a big deal."
" What, no more juicy details to share? Was there kissing or groping, did you sleep together?" Tonks eagerly asked.
Remus groaned " You really are incorrigible."
" I think muggles call them bases, after some muggle sport. There's four if I remember correctly. Like kissing is the first base, touching the second base and so on. Don't tell me you didn't do anything with Severus. I mean come on, you don't just pass up an opportunity like that." Tonks said with a smirk.
" I am not going to tell you anything." Remus sighed with frustration.
Tonks said while putting up her hands in surrender " Okay, don't wolf out. I was just making a point, that Snape is, underneath all that sarcasm and black, actually rather attractive and that it wouldn't hurt to stake your claim if you want him, which you obviously do."
" What's the third and fourth base?" asked the man.
Nymphadora said with a smirk " What usually comes after kissing and touching?"
" Oh, right... " realisation dawned at the man.
Tonks said "Like I said, stake your claim. He's a catch if you don't mind the attitude."
X
Blaise Zabini and McGonagall were the last to arrive. After a bit of mingling and chitchat, Lucius asked everyone to settle in the dining room for dinner. The Weasleys occupied one side of the table, seeing as there were seven of them present. Bill had dragged his blonde boyfriend into the seat next to him, bypassing the acceptable etiquette for dinner. Across the redhead sat Luna and Neville, next to the boy were Tonks and her mother. Kingsley had taken a seat next to Remus who was sitting next to Luna. Lucius, as usual, sat at the head of the table like the lord he was. Harry sat to his right, closest to the blonde man. As dinner was being served by the elves, Hermione asked with surprise.
" What are they wearing?" the girl asked.
Lucius explained " It's their new uniform. The old and tattered pillowcases were simply horrendous. Harry assured me that the elves wouldn't mind the new attire."
" I've never seen so well-dressed elves before." Arthur added.
Harry said " They're also getting paid."
" Really? They get paid?" asked Ron.
The green-eyed teen said " They don't actually need it, but it's the least we can do for them."
When dinner was served, Ron was the first to comment " This is bloody fantastic."
" Ronald Weasley." Hermione hissed.
The redhead just shrugged andermioneHedgvdknvjkf kept eating. Andromeda spoke up " I heard you are going to be a big sister, Hermione."
" Yes, the baby is going to be a boy according to my dad, but mum keeps telling him that it will be a girl. They'll know in about a month or less. I'm really excited." Hermione said.
Harry said " You're going to make a wonderful sister, just look how well you manage us."
" Harry's right, we'd probably be dead without you, 'Mione." Ron said.
Charlie said across the table " There must me something in the air, cause lots of people are having kids. We have two handlers pregnant and one who just had a baby girl."
" We lost two Aurors as well. One just hit her five months mark and the other told us yesterday. It's the season or something." Tonks said.
Andy said " Dora dear, you remember that young wizard, who trained with you last month and stayed with us? "
" Yeah, what about him." asked the younger woman.
Andy said " Her mother sent me a letter, turns out his expecting as well."
All that baby talk made Harry feel a bit uncomfortable. He had always wanted children of his own and thought that he'll have his own family. But he was with Lucius and couldn't picture his life without the blonde man. They were still a new couple, together for no more than a week or so. And the history which lay between them was enough to drive anyone apart. It was all too soon, but Harry had to think about it. Kids were something he wanted, maybe not yet, but someday. They had not even discussed what would happen after the holidays when Harry had to return to school. How could Harry possibly even think about the future generation of Potters if his relationship with Lucius was still shaky and unsure? It was an internal battle inside the green-eyed teen. What if Lucius did not want more children? What if he didn't want them with Harry? And how in Merlin's name was there even supposed to be a kid, when they were both male. But Draco had told him that wizards could get pregnant with the help of a potion and strong magic. But who would be the one to carry it, surely they were both against it. Harry wasn't sure if he could do it, but he did want a child that was his. It was all a mess in his head and the teen tried to cleared his head. Though the longing feeling never went away completely and Harry hoped that it wouldn't be the downfall of his relationship with Lucius Malfoy.
" Love, are you alright?" Lucius brought the teen back to the present.
Harry said "Fine, just thinking."
The answer did not satisfy Lucius, but he allowed the subject to drop at the moment.
Severus, who was looking remarkably better than before was talking with Minerva.
" I am seeing, but I have trouble believing." Minerva said.
Severus said with a hint of amusement " Surely you ought to know by now that Potter never does anything the easy way. As much as it pains me to admit, Harry has an extraordinary talent for bringing out the best in people."
McGonagall sighed " He certainly doesn't let the past get in the way."
" The Malfoys have paid their debt and even though the war is behind us, there are still those who cannot understand it." Snape said.
The Headmistress said " People like Molly Weasley you mean. She sent me a letter, ordering me to tell her where Harry was. After the Howler, I banned her from the school, I cannot allow her to step a foot inside Hogwarts if she cannot behave like a grown woman."
" That woman has cost many people too much already. I will not tolerate her harassing my friends." Severus said grimly.
Minerva had a proud look on her face and she said " Oh, I have no doubt."
X
Ginny had worked her arse off and now she could enjoy the fruits of her labour. Dinner had been more then nice and everyone got along. The drawing room looked very much like a regal room it was. With George's help, Ginny had the room filled with music. Fred was the first to get up and take Hermione dancing. The bushy-haired girl was blushing a bit, but Fred proved to be an excellent dancer. Not wanting to be outdone by his twin, George bowed to Tonks and asked her for a spin around the floor. The Minister of Magic soon took McGonagall dancing and it only made Ginny happy that it was all working out well. Hell, maybe she'd do well in the party planning business.
Soon almost everyone was moving around the floor, though not all of them knew how to dance properly. Luna and Charlie looked to be very cosy with each other. As it turned out, Charlie and Luna had met in the dragon reserve in Romania and hit it off. It was quite clear that both were smitten with the other.
Harry watched Draco being pulled up from the armchair and towards the other couples. Bill let his hands roam and with no shame shoved his tongue into Draco's mouth. The blonde matched the redhead's enthusiasm with the same force. They soon broke away from each other when one of the twins let out a wolf whistle and the other followed. Being in the centre of attention was something Draco used to enjoy, but the scarlet blush on his pale face was as clear as day.
" Thank you for this." Harry said to Lucius.
The blonde asked " What are you thanking me for? I should be thanking you."
" How about you thank me later when we're alone." Harry said suggestively.
The blonde chuckled softly and said " I'm sure I can come up with a few ways to thank you."
" Even Severus looks to be enjoying himself." the teen pointed out.
Lucius glanced over to his friend and said "Lupin is good for him."
" Remus truly likes Severus, and not just as a friends. He was worried about how Severus would react to his attempts in friendship between them, but it seems that they are getting along well." Harry explained.
Lucius sighed " Severus has a guarded heart, it is not easy for him to let someone in. He knows the bitter taste of losing someone and he would rather live his life alone than allow someone access."
" I know that he loved my mum, most likely always will. But Remus is a good man and he would cherish the chance." Harry said.
Lucius kissed the teen's neck and said " As I cherish the one you have given me."
" Dance with me." the green-eyed wizard said.
With one swift move, Lucius had the teen turned around in his arms. Bringing his arms to the younger man's waist, Harry had the chance to rest himself against the blonde's chest. It wasn't so much about dancing, but holding each other close and sharing the intimacy. The gentle sway of the music had the couple rocking side to side. Harry used his shortness to his advantage and snuggled closer to the older man's neck. It was hypnotizing and made their hearts beat in a similar rhythm. At the moment neither cared who else was in the room or who saw them. It was painfully intimate. The younger wizard's lips met the other's in a slow and heated kiss, never breaking the rhythm they were moving with.
They were indeed being watched. Half of the occupants of the room were fixated on the sight that seemed surreal. It felt as if they were intruding. It was nothing new for Draco or Bill who had both seen things neither wanted to see. But there was still something different that captured them in a whole new way. It was confirmation for the ones who still doubted, evidence that they needed to understand that it wasn't just a passing fancy. Hermione smiled as she caught Ginny's gaze. They were both happy for Harry and the blonde man.
Harry's mind was shut down, no one matter more than them. The feeling of just being able to feel was intoxicating. Only the need for air broke them apart. The dark-haired wizard pressed himself as close as he could, almost like he was afraid to lose the contact.
" Is everyone looking at us?" Harry asked in a whisper.
Lucius smiled and said " They are."
" For a minute I forgot that we weren't alone." Harry said.
The blonde said with a smirk " Don't worry about them. We kept our clothes on."
Harry pulled away slightly and said " Thank Merlin for dress robes."
" I could relieve you of your problem, but it would be incredibly obvious if we leave now." Lucius said.
Harry snorted " I'll just think about Molly Weasley or Voldemort."
Lucius grimaced and said " That did it."
" It's midnight soon and I plan to send it away with a bang." Harry said.
" I quite agree with you." Lucius said before they broke apart, the blonde's arm sneaking around Harry's waist.
X
" Where's Ron?" asked Bill.
Hermione said " Draco said that he needed to speak with him. They went into the sitting room."
Bill raised an eyebrow to which Hermione said " It's this plan Ginny cooked up and dragged Draco into."
Arthur asked " What's Ginny up to?"
" Nothing serious, just playing matchmaker." Hermione answered.
Fred said "Little Ronniekins better get his act together. I saw Zabini making moves on Nev."
" Draco said not to worry about Blaise. That Slytherin would even flirt with a pot plant." Hermione said.
George said " Well it's almost midnight soon. Me and Fred are going to set up the fireworks."
Fred gave Hermione a kiss and said " Front row seats to the best show in the Wizarding World."
Arthur said " Can I do anything to help?"
" Let us introduce you to the best merchandise of the WWW." said George.
Fred added " Guaranteed to blow up and cause a one hell of a racket."
Meanwhile Ron was being lectured by Draco.
" Weasley, get a grip. Your sister will raise hell if you blotch this up. And she will chew my head off since she dragged me into this stupid plan of hers." Draco groaned.
Ron grumbled " Well you said Blaise wasn't going to be a problem, now look at him, fawning over Nev."
" Are you going to let a Slytherin be better than you, so much for the Gryffindor mentality." the blonde said.
Ron said heatedly " Of course not. I ain't going to let Zabini win this."
" So what are you going to do about it?" asked Draco.
Ron got up from his seat and said " I'm going to show Neville what's he's been missing."
With that Ron made to leave, only to stop by the door " Did you just manipulate me?"
Draco laughed and said " You'll thank me later, Weasley. Now go show Longbottom what he's been missing."
X
Minerva had every intention to speak with Harry and the opportunity presented itself when the teen left Lucius to talk with Kingsley.
" Professor McGonagall." Harry greeted the woman.
The old witch smile and said " None of that, call me Minerva."
" I'll try to remember. How are you?" Harry made small talk.
The witch said " Splendid."
Harry chuckled and said flatly " I know what you wish to talk about. So let's hear it then."
Minerva sighed " You're one of a kind, Harry Potter. Just when I think I'm going to have a easy year with you... I trust you are capable of making your own decisions and if necessary take responsibility for them. You are a great wizard, one that is capable of achieving everything he sets his mind to. You have a good head on your shoulders too. I am not going to tell you what I think you should or shouldn't do, you are old enough to make that choice on your own. But as Headmistress of Hogwarts I have a certain duty to my students, you being one of them. It is my responsibility to see to your wellbeing while you are a student in Hogwarts. What you do outside of the castle walls is none of my business and I do not wish to interfere, but it is very much my business when it comes to the inside of the school. I sincerely hope that you are returning after the holidays, therefore I must insist that you follow the rules. Hogsmeade weekends are still every weekend and owls still deliver."
Harry listened and after a passing moment said " I am returning and I promise to do my best when it comes to following the rules."
" I have no doubts about that, Harry." Minerva said in a matter of fact tone.
Harry suddenly realised that McGonagall had seen Draco and Bill, one of Hogwarts teachers, together.
" What about Bill and Draco?" asked the teen.
Minerva said " Those two already got an earful. It was a wise decision on William's part to come and speak with me."
" So you knew?" Harry was confused.
The Headmistress said " William told me before the holidays. I've already started to search for a new professor to take over from him. Rules are rules, and one of them clearly states that a relationship between a teacher and a student is not allowed. But since he came to me in all honesty, I decided to look the other way. He will stay at Hogwarts as an assistant to the new professor. Nowhere is it written that a teacher's assistant and student cannot form a relationship."
" I'm sure they'll appreciate it." Harry told the woman.
Minerva said with amusement " I'm sure they will."
X
Fred and George were in their element while setting up the fireworks outside. Hermione had evoked a tradition that her family did on New Year's Eve. Each person had to write down a New Year's promise, something they wished to do the following year. Then they had to throw it into the fire. Handing everyone a piece of parchment, Hermione made a flame hover above the gazebo floor.
It was silly, but everyone did it nonetheless. Luna was first to place her parchment into the fire, she was followed by McGonagall and so on. Even Severus took part. Harry was the last to put his piece of parchment into the flame. The teen had a lot of things he wanted to accomplish and it was hard to just name one. But there was still one thing that was above all others. Right now he had everything he could ever hope for. He had defeated Voldemort and brought back peace to the Wizarding World, he had his friends and more family than he had ever had before. And he was loved. Loved by someone he himself had given his heart to. What else could he wish for? Only that it would last; for him to have a chance to love and be loved. He hoped for a better future and the opportunity to grow old with Lucius. That was his promise; to love.
" Harry, are you done?" Hermione asked.
The teen looked up at her bright face and said " Yeah, I'm done."
" Put it in the fire then. I think it's time." she said.
Harry threw his promise into the flame, his eyes lingering for a moment.
He heard Lucius say " It's almost midnight."
" Draco said that he had the elves make up rooms in case someone decided to stay the night." Harry said.
The blonde said " They are all welcome to stay. We'll just have to remember to put up silencing charms."
" Duly noted. Now let's not keep everyone waiting." the green-eyed wizard said after giving the blonde a soft kiss.
X
The Weasley twins were both grinning like Cheshire Cats.
" It's not every day we get to blow things up," started Fred.
George continued " Especially in Malfoy Manor."
Fred said " It's been a hard year, but hopefully the next will be better than the ones before. Friends and family, old ones as well as the new, let's send this year away with a big blast and greet the new one in the company of those we most care about."
" Hear, hear." George said with a raised glass.
A chorus of agreement was heard and Fred said " But before we light everything up, I have something to say to my lovely Hermione."
The girl was a bit confused but allowed Fred to pull her next to him.
" We've known each other for years, but as friends. For the past few months I've grown to know you and understand what makes you Hermione Jean Granger. You are the smartest witch I know and nothing is impossible for you. I love you, I love everything about you, starting with your eyes and smile. I even love how you seems to think that you know everything. But I guess you do, because you couldn't lead me wrong. You're beautiful inside and out and I am damn lucky to have you. Would you, Hermione Granger, make me even more lucky and be my wife?"
Hermione had tears in her eyes and she was, for the first time, speechless. She frantically looked around and saw everyone smiling at her. She was taken aback, but in the most amazing way.
" You're starting to scare me." Fred said with a small smile.
Before she could say anything rational, Hermione blurted out " Yes! I mean... I will, yes."
Picking her up, Fred was overjoyed. He had been nervous, only George and Bill knowing about his plan to propose. But Hermione had said yes, she was going to be his wife.
As the clapping started, George fired up the fireworks and said " Here it goes."
Almost everyone joined in as George started the countdown.
" FIVE, FOUR, THREE..." a chorus of voices said.
Harry faced Lucius and wrapped his arms around the man's neck, as the final numbers were heard, Harry leaned in and brought their lips together.
" HAPPY NEW YEAR!" was heard from the distance.
Just before the end of the countdown, Ron mustered up all the courage and Gryffindor pride he had and walked to Neville Longbottom. In the light of the fireworks, Neville looked gorgeous and in Ron's mind he was damn near perfect. Without hesitation, Ron stood tall and faced the one, who had been plaguing his dreams ever since the first kiss they shared under the mistletoe. It was all or nothing, now or never. As the old year left and a new one rolled in, Ron Weasley made up his mind.
Neville, who had seen Ron walking up to him, said " Happy New Year, Ron."
But Ron said nothing, only determination shone from his eyes.
" Ron, what..." but the question died on the teen's lips, when Ron's met his.
It was mind numbing and unexpected, but as the two young men melted into each other, nothing could be more important than what they were doing. Ron discovered that kissing Neville was nothing like kissing a girl, but it made it all the more pleasurable for him.
On the other side of the garden, a small group witnessed the whole thing.
" Oh Merlin, look!" said Ginny to the younger Malfoy.
Draco said " I expect a thank you."
" I'll get you a fruit basket. I never believed that Ron would actually have the guts to do it. Way to go, Ron!" the redhead said.
Bill laughed " Now that Ron has entered the dark side, I'm no longer alone."
" Mum's not only going to flip out, she'll explode his time." Ginny said.
Draco told the redheads " What your mother thinks is not important. She's either your mother and loves you for who you are, or she isn't worthy to be called a mother. You all have each other and your father, and as weird as it is you also have the Malfoys by your side."
"Oddly, it made me feel better." Ginny said.
Bill smiled " Weasleys will stick together no matter what."
"You know what? I just realised that I have a wedding to plan." Ginny said in awe.
Draco snorted " Granger will be the smartest of the bunch."
" Well, you're practically a Weasley too." Ginny teased.
The blonde said " You lot need a few good brains in the family."
Bill kissed the blonde wizard and said " How about we find ourselves someplace quiet, so I could lower your level of intelligence a bit."
Ginny rolled her eyes and said " I'll just leave before you start ripping each other's clothes off."
X
" Congratulations, Hermione." Harry said as he hugged the girl.
Hermione smiled and said " I'm literally speechless right now. Can you believe that he actually asked my father for my hand in marriage."
" Fred likes to do things the right way." Harry said.
Hermione gushed " I can't believe we're getting married."
" But you'll wait after graduation, right?" the dark-haired teen asked.
The girl said " Of course. Taking our N.E.W.T's will be hard enough, without adding a wedding to it. No, we will have the ceremony after school is done."
" I'm happy for you, Hermione." the green-eyed teen said.
Hermione told the other Gryffindor " And I'm happy for you. I see how happy Lucius makes you. You belong together, anyone can see it."