Chapter 7 – Reconciliations
Saturday morning Harry was forced to wake up when he heard Teddy banging on his door demanding breakfast. Narcissa moaned next him, and he kissed her cheek before quickly getting out of bed and putting on some appropriate clothes. He opened the door to see Andromeda smirking from the door of the guest room she had shared with Teddy.
"I tried to stop him," she said, but her smirk told him that she didn't really try that hard.
"Well, little man," said Harry as he picked him up. "What would you like for breakfast?"
"Pancakes and Bacon," said Teddy eagerly.
"Alright, that I can do. Let's go," he said as he headed towards the stairs.
"Is Aunt Cissy coming? Where is her room?" asked Teddy. Harry blushed.
"Um, Aunt Cissy sleeps in my room," said Harry, wondering how he should explain it.
"Okay," said Teddy. "I hope she comes down soon."
"I'm sure she will," said Harry as he breathed a sigh of relief.
While he and Teddy made the pancakes, Andromeda made coffee and then sat at the table and enjoyed watching someone else make breakfast for once.
"You and Kingsley seemed to hit it off," said Harry sneaking a glance in Andromeda's direction while also trying to keep the flour out of Teddy's reach.
"Kingsley and I have known each other for a very long time," responded Andromeda with a shrug.
"So, you've always flirted with him like that then? How did Ted feel about that?" asked Harry with a knowing smirk. Andromeda blushed and ignored his questions, which made Harry laugh.
When the bacon was sizzling in the pan, Narcissa finally came down the stairs closely followed by a yawning Astoria.
"Smells delicious my love," Narcissa said as she walked over and kissed Harry soundly before taking a seat next to Andromeda. "So, what are you making us Teddy?"
'Pancakes," said Teddy proudly.
"Yum, one of my favorites," said Narcissa with a smile.
"Really?" said Harry and Teddy together.
"Absolutely," said Narcissa brightly.
After breakfast Andromeda and Teddy went home and Astoria left for work. She had taken Wednesday and Thursday off and had some things she needed to catch up on. Hermione was coming to have lunch with them at noon, so Harry and Narcissa showered, together of course, and then spent the rest of the morning in the library.
When it came time for lunch they went down to the lounge. Neither of them was surprised to not see Ron when Hermione came through the fireplace.
"Hello Hermione, it is a pleasure to actually meet you in person. I know Harry cares for you very much. He talks about you often," said Narcissa kindly. The tone and bright smile on Narcissa's face completely caught Hermione off guard.
"Oh, um, well, it's a pleasure to meet you as well, officially," said Hermione still reeling at how - well - pleasant Narcissa was being. They had an enjoyable lunch, the three of them engaging in amiable conversation. Hermione was surprised by how intelligent Narcissa was. She knew a lot about many different subjects, even muggle literature, and Hermione never had to explain terms to her like she often did with Ron or even Harry sometimes. It was refreshing to engage in conversation at such a high level. When lunch was finished Harry excused himself so the women could talk alone.
"My apologies ladies, but I have some work that can't wait," said Harry as he stood. He leaned over and kissed Narcissa softly and then left the kitchen. Hermione and Narcissa both chuckled and then looked at each other knowingly.
"He's not very subtle is he?" asked Narcissa. Hermione nodded.
"He never has been," replied Hermione.
"I know why he left." said Narcissa. Hermione was once again surprised by the shyness in her voice. "He wants me to talk to you about the day my sister tortured you at Malfoy Manor." Hermione tensed, but said nothing.
"For what it is worth, I don't have many regrets, every choice I made was made to save my own or Draco's life, but letting her torture you was done simply out of fear, and it is one of the few things that I do regret. We were in no immediate danger, and I could have intervened, but I was scared – of many things really. I cannot change that day, but I am very deeply sorry," explained Narcissa sadly. Hermione was silent for several moments before she spoke.
"I have thought about that day a lot since Harry said you two were dating. When he told me about your relationship, he mentioned that he wanted us to talk about it and I haven't been able to get it off my mind. I wasn't sure if I could forgive you, but meeting you today, and seeing you with Harry…. Harry is right. You are not the same person you were that day. You are much more like the young girl I saw in the pictures he showed me," said Hermione with a sigh. "I forgive you Narcissa, but I do have one question."
"What's that?" said Narcissa curiously.
"Do you have any idea how to remove this? Nothing I have tried has worked," said Hermione as she pulled up her sleeve to reveal the still inflamed 'mudblood' engraved on her forearm. Narcissa looked sadly at Hermione.
"I'm sorry Hermione, but I don't. I imagine my sister cursed it to not fade, but what she did is unknown to me. However, if you describe what you have tried and how it reacted I may be able to figure out what curse she used and help you find the counter curse," said Narcissa. Hermione nodded enthusiastically.
"Shall we move to the library then? I'm sure there are many valuable resources in there that can aid us. It is after all likely a Black family spell that she used or something similar," said Narcissa. Hermione's eyes lit up at the word library and Narcissa chuckled.
o – o – o – o – o
Several hours later, Hermione was excited by the progress they had made in the library and was even more surprised to realize how much she actually enjoyed the older witch's company. She had a sharp wit and was exceedingly intelligent. Hermione hoped they were becoming friends. She could use a friend that she could actually have an intellectual conversation with. When they left the library, Hermione excused herself to use the restroom.
"I know you've been here before, so I'm assuming you know where the closest one is?" asked Narcissa. Hermione nodded.
"Very well then. I am going to try and track down Harry. It was lovely to get to know you better Hermione. I hope you will come back to visit soon," said Narcissa as she gave the younger witch a quick hug and then hurried down the hall. Hermione was left staring after her, surprised at her genuine show of affection. 'She is definitely not the woman I thought she was. If only Ron would stop being so daft.'
Hermione shook her head slightly and then headed towards the restroom at the end of the hall. She had almost reached the correct door when she heard someone sobbing in one of the guest rooms. She quickly found the room that the crying was coming from, and only hesitated a moment before she knocked on the door softly. A sharp gasp could be heard on the other side before a couple spells were muttered and a throaty 'come in' was whispered.
Hermione opened the door enough to stick her head in and looked inside sheepishly.
"I'm sorry. I could hear you from the hallway. I just wanted to make sure whoever was in here was okay," said Hermione.
"I'm fine," Astoria said tersely.
"Right, well alright then. Um - well- it's nice to meet you anyway, what are you doing here? - sorry, none of my business," said Hermione nervously. 'Why am I so flustered? Why did I even knock on the door?' Astoria laughed and Hermione's heart fluttered unexpectedly. She ignored it.
"You don't know who I am do you?" Said Astoria.
"No sorry," said Hermione in embarrassment. 'Should I know her? She looks about my age so we had to have been at Hogwarts together. Oh merlin, how embarrassing!'
"I suppose I shouldn't be offended really, I put a lot of effort into being as unnoticed as possible at Hogwarts," Astoria replied meekly.
"Ugh, I was hoping you weren't going to say you went to Hogwarts. I'm terribly sorry I don't remember you. I feel really embarrassed," said Hermione as a blush filled her cheeks. 'How could I not remember someone this beautiful – wait what?'
"It's alright. My name is Astoria. I was two years behind you. My sister Daphne was in your year," Astoria explained.
"Daphne? Greengrass! You're her little sister. I do remember you, but wow!" said Hermione coming into the room. "Um, you look different from the last time I saw you." Astoria blushed and Hermione couldn't help but think it was the most adorable thing in the world.
"Yes, I've grown up. That tends to happen," said Astoria with a chuckle.
"So why are you staying here? Are you friends with Harry? I've never seen you talk." Said Hermione as she sat down on the end of the bed.
"No, I don't think we've ever said two words to each other until he graciously let me live here. I am - was - I don't know - engaged to Draco. It's a long story, but Harry offered me a room until I figure things out," Astoria explained.
"That sounds like Harry," said Hermione with a smile. They talked for a while, much longer than Hermione thought they had. It wasn't until Ron's Patronus sailed in through the window that Hermione realized how late it was.
"Are you ever coming home?" said Ron's angry voice, when the Patronus reached Hermione. Hermione sighed in annoyance as she stood up to leave.
"Well, I should go, but it was nice to meet you or see you again – or whatever. Goodbye," Hermione called from the doorway.
o – o – o – o – o
Narcissa caught up with Harry in his study. When he saw her, he quickly put his book aside and pulled her down into his lap with a toe-curling kiss that made her wish they didn't have company.
"Thank you for talking to her," said Harry when he eventually pulled away. Narcissa chuckled.
"You didn't exactly give me much choice, but you are welcome. I think it went pretty well actually. She's a very bright young woman. I can see why you are friends. Am I correct in assuming she is the brains behind all of your school years shenanigans?" asked Narcissa with a smirk. Harry laughed.
"Yes, you are. I'm pretty sure I would have died a long time ago without Hermione's aid," said Harry with a smile.
"Well, then I find myself eternally grateful that she became your friend," said Narcissa. Harry smiled at her.
"I have been wanting to ask you something. I know you usually stay the night on Sundays, but I didn't want to be presumptuous. Are you busy tomorrow night?" asked Harry. Narcissa laughed.
"I might be able to clear my schedule, if it is worthwhile," said Narcissa jokingly.
"I know that is your way of trying to get me to tell you my plans, but it's a surprise and it is going to stay that way," said Harry defiantly.
"Very well," Narcissa said with a mock sigh as she leaned in and claimed Harry's lips in a fierce kiss. "My weekends are yours for as long as you want them, my love," Harry's smile widened as he returned the kiss.
"So, I can claim the next eight Sunday evenings then?" He said with a smirk when the kiss ended.
"Eight? That's oddly specific, but yes," said Narcissa.
"Good," said Harry as he ran his fingers through her hair leisurely. Eventually he pulled her head down for another deep kiss as he let his hands roam down her back and his tongue explored her mouth. They were both brought back to their surroundings several moments later by the sound of Hermione's amused cough.
"Sorry to interrupt. Ron is waiting for me to return, so I have to go. I just wanted to say goodbye," Hermione said, looking away from them bashfully.
"I'll walk you out," said Harry as he gave Narcissa one more soft kiss before helping her stand up. He walked Hermione to the fireplace in the lounge and gave her a hug goodbye before handing her the floo powder.
"You seem really happy together Harry. I've never seen you smile this much. It's very different from who you were with Ginny, I can see that now. You seem much better suited. I'm happy for you," said Hermione.
"Thanks Hermione, it means a lot to know I have your support. Narcissa said she enjoyed your company, feel free to come by anytime, for any reason," said Harry.
"I will, see you soon," said Hermione as she took a handful of powder. Once Hermione was gone, Harry returned to the study to find Narcissa sitting in the seat he had vacated waiting for him.
"Shall we go back to your place or?" asked Harry.
"Yes, let's do that. I have so much to show you," said Narcissa excitedly. They floo'd to the new house and Narcissa gave him the grand tour stopping at a set of double doors to the only room that was closed and locked. Harry tried to remember what the room was.
"This is your study," said Narcissa as she unlocked it. Harry walked in behind Narcissa and was surprised to see that the room was completely empty. He looked over at Narcissa in confusion. Narcissa chuckled.
"I wanted you to have some place to make your own. You can do whatever you want with it. I'll even let you decorate it with Gryffindor memorabilia if you want," said Narcissa with a sour scowl. Harry laughed.
"That's not necessary. I have no desire to do that, but I appreciate that you would let me," said Harry as he wrapped her inn his arms. "I love that you thought of me, I love that you're mine, I love you." Harry kissed her tenderly.
"I love you too," Narcissa whispered as she settled her hands against his chest. "So, which room shall we start with?" Harry laughed.
"I have a feeling you already know which room you want to christen first, so I'll follow you," said Harry.
"Good man," said Narcissa with a smile as she grabbed his hand and pulled him out of the empty room.
o – o – o – o – o
Sunday felt like a breath of fresh air. They weren't going to see Teddy and Andromeda since Andromeda was busy with some PTA event at Teddy's nursery, so the day was relaxed and quiet and they simply enjoyed each other's company. No expectations, no plans. Harry realized he hadn't had many true days off over the last couple years and he vowed that with Narcissa in his life now, he would remedy that. He would love to spend more days like this with her.
They had an early dinner, much to Narcissa's surprise, but no matter how hard she tried Harry wouldn't tell her where they were going. After they ate Harry told her to get dressed in the master bedroom. He had already had the house elf lay out appropriate clothes for her.
"I'll meet you in the lounge," he said as he gave her a soft lingering kiss and then walked away.
An hour later, Narcissa met him downstairs with a wide smile on her face.
"Thank you for the dress," said Narcissa as she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. "I wouldn't have expected you to have such good taste but it's perfect."
"You're welcome. But I can't really take the credit. I had a lot of help from the lady at the shop," said Harry as he wrapped his arms around her waist. "Are you ready?" Narcissa nodded.
Harry gripped her hips tightly and they disappeared into muggle London. When they reappeared, they walked a few blocks hand-in-hand until they were standing outside of one of London's best dance studios.
"I know you already know how to dance, but I would like to learn more than the little bit that Andromeda taught me. I thought it might be a fun thing for us to do together. I signed us up for private lessons every Sunday evening. We can learn whatever dances you want, and keep going until you want to stop," explained Harry. Narcissa smiled at him in excitement.
"What a wonderful idea! I am very much looking forward to it," said Narcissa as they went inside.
Two hours later they left, both sweating and exhausted but pleased. They had decided to learn the rumba first. It was the dance of love after all. Harry found that he very much enjoyed that dance. When they got home, they quickly fell into bed and succumbed to sleep. Their bodies moving closer together in slumber, until they were wrapped tightly around each other.
o – o – o – o – o
On Monday Andromeda asked Narcissa to watch Teddy overnight on Wednesday so she could go out. Narcissa made it very clear that Harry was not allowed to tease Andromeda about dating Kingsley. Not wanting to try his luck he agreed.
Since Narcissa would be occupied and they wouldn't be going out, Harry decided it was time that he confronted Draco again. Narcissa hid it well, but he could tell that she was hurt by the fact that Draco had yet to reach out. In Harry's mind, it had gone on long enough. He wanted Narcissa to be happy, and he knew the only way she truly would be was if she had Draco in her life, at least in some way.
He spent the day at work formulating a plan. He thought he knew Draco well enough to know what to expect and made the arrangements he needed for his back-up plan in case Draco refused to talk to him.
When he finished his dinner, he floo'd to Malfoy Manor and wandered around looking for Draco. He was not surprised to find him passed out drunk at his father's old desk with an empty bottle of fire whiskey next to him.
"Tsk, tsk Draco. It is only like six o'clock. What would you mother think?" said Harry with a frown.
"CRUCIO!" Draco yelled as he jumped out of his chair in shock, completely forgetting that his wand was still on the desk next to his empty glass.
"Accio Draco's wand," said Harry, deftly catching the wand as it flew into his hands.
"So Potter, it wasn't enough for you to steal my mother you had to steal my fiancé as well," sneered Draco, not even realizing Harry had his wand. "Fuck you Potter, you disgust me."
"Yes we'll, in this moment I would have to say the feeling is mutual," replied Harry. He let out a disappointed sigh. "Your mother misses you."
"I thought I already told you to fuck off, Potter," drawled Draco.
"I can't do that. I'm not leaving until we've talked this out," said Harry firmly.
"You can't make me talk to you," snarled Draco.
"No, but there is someone who can," said Harry. "Kreacher."
"Yes master," said the elf as he popped in with a bow.
"Can you get me a sober up potion please," Harry asked. Kreacher popped away and then immediately returned with a small vial.
"Drink it," Harry demanded as he put the vial out for Draco to take.
"Make me," antagonized Draco. Harry sighed.
"We are going to see your father and I doubt this is how you want to become reacquainted. Now drink it," said Harry.
"You're taking me to see my father?" asked Draco in surprise.
"Maybe, I'm starting to change my mind," snarled Harry.
"Fine," said Draco as he forcefully took the potion out of Harry's hand and chugged it. Before Draco could even react, Harry grabbed his arm and apparated them to the dock of Azkaban.
"Salazar's snake Potter, I could have been splinched," yelled Draco.
"You weren't," said Harry with an indifferent shrug as he handed Draco his wand. "Let's go." They took a boat to Azkaban island in complete silence, both feeling the cold and weariness increase as they got closer. When the got off the small boat, Harry walked up to the closest tower and knocked on the large door. They were immediately let in by the evening guard.
"Good evening Lord Potter, we have Lucius in an interview room as you requested," said the guard with a smile. He completely ignored Draco.
"Thank you, I appreciate your help with this," said Harry sincerely.
"Of course, I'll show you the way," the guard replied. Harry nodded and followed him down the corridor.
"Come on Draco," Harry called behind him as he walked. When they reached the interview room, the guard opened the door. Harry moved forward, but Draco stopped in hesitation.
"Just knock when you are ready to come out," said the guard. Harry nodded and motioned for Draco to go in first. Eventually, Draco steeled his resolve and walked inside.
"Draco?" Said Lucius looking up from the spot on the floor he was staring at. "How nice to see you."
"Father?" said Draco with concern. Harry walked in and looked at Narcissa's ex-husband. It was easy to see what had Draco concerned. Lucius looked horrible, significantly worse than the last time he had visited. Azkaban had clearly not been kind to him. He couldn't help but wonder how much longer Lucius would survive here. Draco just stood there staring at his father until Harry gave him a soft push towards the metal chairs. Draco hastily stumbled forwards and took a seat awkwardly. Harry sat down next to him and gave Lucius a tight smile.
"Potter. Not that I am ungrateful, but I'm assuming you didn't come all the way here just for me to see my son," said Lucius knowingly, though any of his usually swagger was long gone. He just looked tired and pained.
"He's fucking mother," said Draco on Harry's behalf. Harry managed not to blush.
"I see," said Lucius in surprise. He looked intently at Draco.
"And you don't approve," he stated.
"Obviously," said Draco with a scoff.
"Lord Potter, can I have a moment alone with my son please," asked Lucius. Harry nodded and walked over to the far end of the room near the door before casting muffliato on himself. He watched the heated exchange between Draco and Lucius as he tried to ignore the strange buzzing sensation in his ears. After what felt like hours, he saw Draco wipe tears from his eyes and then give his father a curt nod before schooling his features. Lucius looked over at Harry and waved him over. Harry ended the spell and looked uncomfortably at Draco.
"If there is nothing else you need to say, we should go," Harry said. Draco nodded and stood as Harry knocked on the door.
"Goodbye father," said Draco as he straightened his shoulders and walked out of the room.
"Potter," said Lucius barely above a whisper as Harry turned to leave.
"We both know my time is limited. When my time comes, it will be easier to accept my fate knowing she is happy. I don't have many regrets, but I do regret how much I disappointed her, the life she was stuck with in the end. She deserves so much more," said Lucius.
"She does," replied Harry. Lucius nodded and sighed.
"Take care of her," whispered Lucius.
"I will," said Harry with a nod. The boat ride away from the island was done in silence, but it felt even heavier than before. They were both lost in their own thoughts and Draco didn't fight when Harry apparated them back to Malfoy Manor. When they reappeared in the study, Draco poured them each a glass of fire whiskey. He downed his quickly before he slumped down in his chair.
"He told me you were the one that ensured that mother and I were protected and got to keep the Malfoy fortune. Were you - in love with her then?" asked Draco.
"No, I would be lying if I didn't admit that there was something that I found intriguing about your mother since that night in the forest, but it wasn't until that first date set up by Madam Fyndu that I developed feelings for her," said Harry. Draco made no response. The silence lingered until it became unbearably uncomfortable. Just when Harry turned to leave, Draco spoke.
"I'll come over for dinner on Saturday," said Draco tersely. "You can see yourself out." Harry had an angry retort on the tip of his tongue, but he took the dismissal for what it was. Draco didn't want to be vulnerable in front of Harry, so instead he nodded and left without a word.
o – o – o – o – o
Friday night, Harry met Kingsley at the pub as usual. Kingsley told him all about his date with Andromeda, while Harry described the disaster dinner with Draco was and his attempts to fix things.
"You don't think Narcissa will be upset that you went to see Lucius?" asked Kingsley.
"I don't know, but I had to do something," replied Harry.
"Right, Gryffindor, somehow I forget," chuckled Kingsley as he sipped his beer.
"So, we're both dating one of the infamous Black sisters?" Said Harry after a moment. "How did that happen?"
"I'm glad for it, but honestly, I'm scared out of my mind," replied Kingsley.
"Why?" asked Harry.
"I knew all three of them at Hogwarts, they can be very – intense," answered Kingsley. Harry laughed.
"You have no idea."
o – o – o – o – o
Saturday morning Harry seeked out Astoria before Narcissa was due to arrive. He let her know that Draco was coming for dinner.
"You are welcome to join us if you want, or feel free to be elsewhere if you don't want to see him," said Harry.
"Thanks for letting me know, I think I'll have dinner out. I'm not ready to face him yet," shared Astoria. Harry nodded and left her to whatever she was doing.
Harry hadn't seen Narcissa since Monday morning and he was desperate to spend some time with her. It continued to surprise him how much he enjoyed her company, just having her there even if they weren't doing anything. He had always spent most of his time alone and that never bothered him, but recently he hated being alone, he just wanted Narcissa, to hold Narcissa, kiss Narcissa, drown in everything Narcissa.
When it was time for dinner Harry tried to stay casual, but as they walked towards the kitchen at Grimmauld place, Narcissa kept eyeing him suspiciously as if she knew something unusual was about to happen. When they walked into the kitchen Narcissa gasped at seeing Draco sitting uncomfortably at the table.
"Draco," she whispered as tears filled her eyes.
"Mother, Potter," Draco said with a nod in his direction.
"How? Why are you here?" Said Narcissa.
"I may not be 'thrilled' about this," Draco said motioning between the two of them. "But I – don't want to lose you over this. Father made it quite clear how much I owe you. How much you have done for me. I'm sorry for the way I handled your news. I may need some time to get used to it, but I won't stand in your way."
"Thank you Draco," said Narcissa with a genuine smile as she sat down across from Draco.
"I just ask that you try to keep the public displays of affection to a minimum. I'm not sure I can handle seeing you two - you know - snogging and stuff," Draco said with a shiver.
"That's fine. I can keep my hands to myself," said Harry as he sat down next to Narcissa. "I'm not so sure about your mother though."
"Harry," said Narcissa and Draco in the same warning tone. Harry chuckled.
"My apologies," he said as leaned over and kissed the top of Narcissa's hand. Draco and Narcissa both rolled their eyes.
Dinner was more pleasant than Harry would have thought possible given the circumstances. When dessert was finished Harry suggested that Narcissa take Draco to over to the new house to show him around. Narcissa gave him a loving smile and squeezed his hand gently for the suggestion. He could tell she was having a hard time not kissing him, and that made him grin like a fool.
o - o - o - o - o
As Harry suggested, Narcissa and Draco floo'd to the Scottish manor after a couple drinks. Narcissa showed Draco around and then they got comfortable in the lounge with a glass of fire whiskey each. The awkward silence only lasted a moment until Draco spoke.
"It's a lovely place mother. You've done a fine job with decorating it, not that I'm surprised. I'm glad he's at least giving you the life you deserve," said Draco as he took a sip. Narcissa scowled slightly, but she didn't say anything right away. She knew things were still fragile between them, so she wants to choose her words carefully.
"I have grown very fond of it," she said. Draco nodded. "Tell me Draco, when did you see your father?" Narcissa watched in cool detachment as Draco's grip on his glass tightened.
"Last night," Draco confessed.
"How?" asked Narcissa.
"Harry took me to see him when I refused to hear him out about your relationship," said Draco.
"I see," said Narcissa with a tight smile. "And what exactly did he tell you?"
"Everything you did for me, everything you sacrificed so that I would be protected. He told me that if you were happy, I had no right to interfere. That I was being childish and foolish. He reminded me that if I pushed you away, I would have no one left. He said that you deserved love, now that you could choose it and that if Harry bloody Potter was the one you loved you could do a lot worse," explained Draco with a scowl. "I'm still not sure that I agree with him on that point." Draco smirked, and Narcissa breathed a sigh of relief. They would work things out.
Draco and Narcissa talked for a couple more hours and then floo'd back to Grimmauld place so that Draco could continue on to Malfoy Manor. When they walked through the fireplace Astoria was talking animatedly with Hermione on the sofa, while Harry watched on from afar with an amused smirk.
"I leave for a few hours, and you throw a party, dear?" said Narcissa teasingly. Harry chuckled.
"I was happily reading and waiting for you when they interrupted with their drunken giggling as they stumbled through the fireplace. I had nothing to do with it," said Harry holding up his book as proof.
"Astoria," said Draco softly, ignoring the conversation completely. Harry could hear the mix of hope and desperation in his voice and his mood immediately sobered.
"I have made up with mother. You can come home now. You were right. I never should have made you choose. Please come back," pleaded Draco.
"No you shouldn't have, but I'm not coming back Draco. That life - with you - I'm sorry but I don't want that anymore," said Astoria fighting the buzzing in her head from the alcohol. "I have only been here a week, but I've been watching them. They are perfect together. I want what they have, I want the kind of love that they share." Both Narcissa and Harry were blushing at this declaration and trying to sneak out of the room while Hermione watched on awkwardly.
"Fine, but if I walk out of this house that's it. I won't ask you to come back again. It's over," said Draco firmly.
"I understand," said Astoria. She didn't move. Draco's eyes narrowed and his fists clenched before he sighed and turned around back into the fireplace with the floo powder.
"Malfoy Manor," he shouted harshly. When he disappeared a pale Narcissa turned to Harry.
"I am going to go check on him," she said sadly.
"I assumed you would," said Harry. "Ladies, give us a moment please." Astoria and Hermione nodded and scurried out of the room.
"Take as much time as you need," said Harry as he covered the small distance between them and pulled her in for a tender kiss. "I'll be here whenever you get back." Narcissa nodded and let herself be held by Harry for a moment.
"I love you," she whispered.
"I love you too," said Harry as he kissed the top of her head.
o - o - o - o - o
A couple hours later Narcissa returned to find a naked Harry reading in bed and waiting for her.
"Today has been way more exhausting then I expected," said Narcissa with a sigh as she gracefully plopped down on the bed beside him.
"I'm sorry," said Harry as he put his book down.
"It's not your fault. Life can't always be simple and easy, the exhausting days are bound to come every once in a while," she said as she turned onto her side to face him.
"How is Draco?" Harry asked. Narcissa shrugged.
"He'll be okay I think, eventually. He's hurting and angry, but he's young. I have no doubt that he will find love again," said Narcissa.
"I'm sure he will," said Harry. Narcissa looked at him intently for a few moments and then sighed deeply.
"Harry, I need to ask you something," Narcissa said.
'Okay," said Harry.
"Why did you take Draco to see Lucius?" she asked.
"Um, I knew he would be too stubborn to come around on his own and I knew you were missing him, so I wanted to help," said Harry nervously. Narcissa's face was neutral, but he could tell by the tone of her voice that he was in dangerous territory.
"What would possibly make you think that Lucius would help you?" asked Narcissa.
"Um well, when I went to talk to him last year, you know, about your divorce. He - sort of - asked me to make sure you were happy and taken care of," replied Harry. Narcissa blinked slowly and her face became steel and even more emotionless. 'Oh shite, that was clearly the wrong answer.'
"Is that why you are seeing me? Am I some kind of project for you? Help the poor ex-wife of a death eater because she can't help herself," said Narcissa with a menacing hiss. Harry gulped, but gathered all of his Gryffindor courage and didn't flee the room like his head was telling him to.
"You know that's not true Narcissa. I had no idea that it would be you that first date. When I saw you my conversation with Lucius never even crossed my mind and other then the brief conversation we had in the garden that night it hasn't since. My 'help' as you called it only went as far as making sure you got what was already yours. Your money, your house. I have never and still don't care for Lucius, and I am not trying to do him any favours. I don't him anything, but I do owe myself something, and that is the only reason I am with you," said Harry in a rush. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "I assure you Narcissa, since the moment I saw you in that restaurant my motives have been entirely selfish. I have only thought of the benefits to me of having you in my life. I protected you then because it was in my power to do so, and I felt like I owed YOU at least that much. In my mind, it was the right thing to do. Last night, he asked me again to take of you, and I agreed, because I love you Narcissa, truly, deeply, and it has nothing to do with anything other than you and me and the time we have spent together. My life was fine, pleasant even before we started dating, but with you everything just has more meaning. You make me want to be the best version of myself. That is why I am with you. I don't know how to convince you of that," explained Harry. Narcissa sighed.
"Of course you're right. I'm sorry," she said as tears welled in her eyes. "I shouldn't have questioned your feelings for me, that was unfair. I just - I was angry and I didn't understand why you would talk to Lucius at all, and then you bring Draco there behind my back. Don't you think you should have told me? I'm his mother," Narcissa said with a steel edge in her voice that made Harry shiver.
"Is that why you are upset because I didn't ask for your permission?" Harry asked. He didn't want to upset her more, but he really was confused about why she was mad at him to begin with. Clearly what he did helped, so what was the big deal?
"Yes, maybe, I don't know. I just - I'm very protective of Draco, and I don't give that up easily I suppose, and honestly, I try not to think about Lucius, and I don't really like you talking to him," Narcissa explained.
"I just wanted to help. I know you've missed him, even though you haven't said anything. I only wanted you to be happy, to have Draco in your life again. I know Draco and Lucius were - are close. I was trying to come up with a way to fix things and since I knew Lucius cared about you being happy, I guess I figured that if Draco wouldn't talk to me, he might listen to Lucius. I hadn't planned on telling him that your new relationship was with me per say, which perhaps was an oversight on my part. I should have expected Draco to tell him," said Harry. Narcissa nodded and took a deep breathe.
"I'm surprised he was so accommodating with you," Narcissa whispered. Harry took a moment to respond.
"I wasn't expecting him to approve of our relationship the way he did. In fact, it would be easier if he hadn't. I wish he would have screamed and insulted me and threatened me with the Cruciatus if I didn't keep my hands off you. I know how to deal with that Lucius, but I don't know how to reconcile the meek, helpless man that would so easily roll over and let me have you with the terrifying, imposing man I used to know," said Harry.
"Thank you for getting Draco back. I am grateful, without your intervention it probably would have taken us months to reunite, but in the future please don't get involved in things between me and Draco without talking to me about it," said Narcissa.
"Okay, I can do that, and I have no intention of seeing Lucius again," said Harry calmly. "I'm sorry I upset you. When I see a problem, I tend to jump right it and try and fix it, without a lot of thought sometimes. Hermione can confirm that." Narcissa smiled at him and drew him in for a soft kiss. When she started to yawn into his mouth Harry laughed and pulled away. He settled her into his arms and ran his fingers slowly through her hair until she fell asleep.
The next morning Harry woke first as usual and decided to go downstairs to make Narcissa breakfast. When he returned with a tray, he walked in to see Narcissa sitting up in bed with a panicked expression and tears in her eyes.
"What's wrong Narcissa?" Harry asked as he put the tray down on the bedside table and sat down next to her.
"You came back?" said Narcissa, visibly relieved.
"Of course, I did," said Harry in confusion. "I just went to make you breakfast."
"I thought you left," Narcissa whispered.
"Why would you think that?" asked Harry, but Narcissa remained silent, too embarrassed to say it out loud.
"I may not have a lot of relationship experience, but even Ginny and I fought sometimes. I know there will be times that we disagree on things or one of us does something to upset the other. It doesn't change the way I feel about you. I know you would never do something to intentionally hurt me, and as long as you believe the same thing about me, we'll be fine. We just have to talk through things as they come up. I promise it would take much, much more than a fight to drive me away. I love you Narcissa," Harry whispered.
"Even though I was so unreasonable last night," she asked uncertainly.
"Always," Harry said, cringing as the words came out. 'Great, now I sound like Professor Snape.' But he couldn't regret the words, not really, when it made Narcissa smile at him so brightly at him and crash their lips together for a thorough, searing kiss. Eventually she pulled away and Harry took the chance to brush his fingers over her cheek and kiss her tenderly on the forehead.
"I think you should enjoy the breakfast I got up so early to make you, and then let me show you just how much I love you," said Harry huskily. Narcissa nodded as her face flushed in anticipation. Harry picked up the fork and put a bite-sized piece of pancake onto it and lifted it to her lips. "Take a bite."
Narcissa complied. Harry watched as a drip of syrup poked out from between her lips as Narcissa hummed in approval. Before she could stick her own tongue out to remove it, Harry did it for her, licking around the edge of her lips before he forced his tongue into her mouth to taste more. Slowly, Harry pushed Narcissa back onto the bed and moved so that he was straddling her. Harry reached over and popped the lid open from the bottle of syrup, causing Narcissa to notice it for the first time. She raised an eyebrow questioningly as Harry tipped it to allow a spot of syrup to fall between Narcissa's breasts.
"Harry, what are you doing?" she asked breathlessly.
"Making sure I eat a good breakfast before work," he said as if it was obvious. Narcissa moaned in response, her eyes watching Harry intently as he manoeuvred the bottle of syrup around her body, leaving a trail behind. As Harry looked down at the white flesh covered in lines of syrup, he popped the lid back onto the bottle and placed it onto the bedside table.
Harry swiped his finger down the valley of Narcissa's breasts to collect some of the syrup onto his fingertip and held it up so that the blonde could see the sticky goodness and then slowly and deliberately brought his finger to his mouth; letting his tongue dart out to taste the sweet flavour and moaning in satisfaction before drawing his finger fully into his mouth; his green eyes never leaving Narcissa's blue.
Narcissa moaned out Harry's name as his lips attached themselves to her neck; a hot tongue and warm mouth licking and sucking at her skin to make sure that not a drop of the syrup was wasted. She moved her hands to weave into his dark hair, but then groaned in frustration when Harry grasped her wrists, placing them firmly down at her sides.
"Didn't anyone ever teach you not to bother someone while they're eating?" said Harry with a smirk. Narcissa looked at him in surprise as her arousal spiked at his commanding tone. Without waiting for her to reply Harry lowered his lips back onto the skin of Narcissa's neck. He licked over her pulse point, before he continued to lick the syrup pathway down her chest; using the tip of his tongue to collect as much of the syrup as possible.
A throaty moan escaped Narcissa's throat as Harry continued to torture her skin with his mouth. She squirmed in delight as his tongue licked the syrup between the valley of her breasts, down her stomach and dipped into her navel before he kissed a slow pathway back to her breasts. Harry smirked as he felt Narcissa's hips roll into him and continued to focus on removing all traces of the syrup from her body, his tongue teasing around her nipples but never quite touching them.
"Salazar… oh Fuck...Harry," Narcissa gasped as Harry lips finally found her sensitive nipple. Harry smiled against Narcissa's pale skin as her desperate plea reached his ears.
When all of the syrup had been removed, Harry brought his lips back to Narcissa's and let their tongues dance together as he pushed himself into her hot, ready core; entering her fully as he moved one hand down to brush his thumb against her throbbing bundle of nerves.
Narcissa pulled her mouth away from Harry's; she moaned as her head fell further back into the pillow. Harry kissed a trail along her jaw and up to her ear, he nipped at her lobe as he thrust into her, and his free index finger and thumb teased a nipple. He slid his hand down the side of her body and curled his fingers under her thigh to encourage Narcissa to wrap it around his waist so he could thrust even deeper.
Several moments later, he could feel her muscles begin to tighten around him, so he picked up his pace. Narcissa moaned Harry's name repeatedly as she felt her release build and seconds later, she cried out her release, gripping the sheets tightly. Harry felt her hips arch against him as her orgasm tore through her and he couldn't help but pierce the skin at the base of Narcissa's neck with his teeth hard enough to leave a mark as he let out his own release deep inside her.
Harry counted it as a win that he only ended up being two hours late for work that morning. Hopefully, the fact that Kingsley was also dating a Black sister would work to his benefit. He, better than anyone else, would understand the position he had found himself in.