Harry's POV;
Harry followed Headmistress McGonagall into her new office, feeling incredibly amused. Tom brushed his arms against him before taking a seat in the chair in front of the desk. Harry quickly took the other one. Sirius made an indignant sound when there wasn't a chair for him left.
When he saw McGonagall's unimpressed stare, he quickly transfigured a chair and sat down next to the other two men.
''Well, that was quite the morning, don't you all agree?'' McGonagall asked them with a raised eyebrow.
Harry snorted. He couldn't help it. It was quite the scene this morning.
When they entered the Great Hall, McGonagall had just announced that Dumbledore had been fired. She had wanted to inform the students about the dismissal before the morning Prophet came flying through the Hall.
As soon as Harry and Tom, with Sirius by their side, stepped into the Great Hall, the entire student population burst out in clapping and cheering. Thanking them for their work of getting rid of the Pink Toad.
Hermione had flown Harry around the neck and, after a crushing hug, attacked Tom in a tight embrace, making it known to everyone that she knew him already with the fond look they shared.
After that hug, Tom had cleared his throat and turned to the student population before promptly declaring that Hogwarts needed a Headmaster that would be loyal to the students and only wanted what was best for them. When he proposed to Hogwarts that McGonagall should take the mantle, everybody burst into cheers again, and Hogwarts set off fireworks on the enchanted ceiling—agreeing with Slytherin's descendant.
To say McGonagall was shocked was an understatement. Flitwick had poked her until she unfroze from her seat and firmly demanded Harry, Tom, and Sirius go with her to her 'new' office.
Fred and George had started the Hogwarts song while McGonagall marched from the head table towards the three men, blushing all the way while all four houses started singing along in some kind of tribute.
''You could say that, but you are the best for the job, Minnie,'' Sirius stated with a wink.
''Sirius Orion Black, if you call me Minnie again-''
''Dully noted, professor, I mean, Headmistress,'' the teasing tone in Sirius's voice was there for everybody to hear.
McGonagall ducked her head again before leveling Tom and Harry with a hard stare.
''Now, boys, I think you should start explaining what you are planning and why Tom Marvolo Riddle is in my office with Harry James Potter when it's clear they are lovers instead of enemies.'' She asked with a sharp look and a no-nonsense tone.
If Harry wanted to run the moment those words had left McGonagall's mouth, he's the only one to know. He practically choked in his saliva, not knowing what to do or say for a moment.
''Well, I think Harry can better explain the why about that,'' Tom started with a pleasant tone, but Harry could see how tense he was holding himself in the chair. Tom was ready to bolt at a moment's notice.
''How did you know they were lovers that quickly?'' Sirius demanded, not surprised that his old favorite teacher had figured out who Tom really was.
''You can see it in their eyes, mister Black. It's the same way how you would look at mister Lupin when you were younger.''
Sirius blushed and leaned back in his chair to refrain himself from asking more.
''Mister Potter-Peverell, I'm quite curious about this tale. Why don't you start explaining?'' She then looked over her glasses, pinning him with that stern look.
Harry swallowed and waved his hand to summon Fire Whiskey and glasses.
''You're going to need that,'' Harry said while nodding to the glass with whiskey. McGonagall took the glass and started sipping, waving her hand to Harry to indicate he could start.
It took some time for Harry to find the right words, but soon he was telling the whole story, about his time in Death's realm, about Tom's resurrection, him gaining his sanity back from Lady Magic, all their plans, and the future he desired for the wizarding world.
McGonagall was silent for a long time, looking at nobody in particular but watching them still.
After about three minutes, one of the portraits coughed, startling her, and she started cursing in Gaelic.
Tom quitely filled her glass again and pushed the now full glass towards the older woman.
''Fifty points from Gryffindor!'' McGonagall finally stated after she was done cursing.
Harry gaped at her, ''I'm not even a student anymore!''
''You were when you did all those stupid things, mister Potter-Peverell,''
''I wasn't even in Gryffindor anymore!'' Harry then stated incredulously again.
''You're going to be the new Gryffindor head, so it doesn't matter,'' McGonagall said with a wave of her hand.
''I'm going to be what?!'' Harry asked while gaping at the Headmistress. Had she gone completely gone mad?!
''Head of Gryffindor, lad, you have been in the house for four years, so you know what to expect, even if you were a Slytherin the last year.''
''I'm just a year older than the students-''
''Sweetheart, please stop protesting. You're not going to win.'' Tom said, sounding amused before rubbing Harry's back in a comforting matter.
Harry was not prepared to become Head of Gryffindor, but-
''It is actually a pretty good idea, especially to get rid of the irritation between Slytherin and Gryffindor,'' Sirius stated with a big grin, and Harry was just thinking the same thing. It would be good for the inner house relations. A Slytherin/Gryffindor who teaches Defense Against the Dark Arts and is labeled as a Dark wizard. Dear lord, he will get a lot of shit for all of this later.
''Fine! I will become Head of Gryffindor,'' Harry grumbles.
''Like you had a choice,'' McGonagall snorted.
''Sirius should be the new Transfigurations professor.'' Harry then told them, and Harry saw a flash of panic over McGonagall's face before she schooled her features.
''That is agreeable, but you will discuss every plan you have for the school with me. I will not be blindsided,''
''That was never the plan, professor,'' Tom said with his head held high. McGonagall turned an icy glare to him.
''I can see that you are not the same megalomaniac as you were, mister Riddle. But if you hurt anyone, especially Harry, I will make sure that you will be killed in a way that you don't even want to return.'' She said with a huff. The threat made Harry feel a little warm on the inside. Knowing that McGonagall truly cared for him.
Tom just nodded at her solemnly. Even Tom knew not to mess with McGonagall.
''Now, I expect that you both don't want chambers here but will travel home after a school day?'' She asked, returning to her professional attitude.
Sirius and Harry nodded in agreement.
''You will get the roster and the rest of the information tomorrow morning. We will meet with the other teachers before breakfast and before classes will start. Harry, you can ask the other Heads of houses, or me, for tips on the Head of House duties. Please take good care of my lions.''
Harry nodded his head with a smile. Suddenly he couldn't wait to start teaching and his other duties.
''Now, according to Albus, you, Tom, have put a curse on the Defense Against the Dark Arts position. Is this true? And if it is, please cancel the curse so we can keep Harry as long as he wants.'' McGonagall asked with narrowed eyes.
Tom squirmed a little on his seat, something Harry had never seen because Tom seemed genuinely nervous.
''I kind of forgot about that curse, but yes, of course, I will take Harry to the classroom after this meeting, and we will get rid of it.'' He said with a nod and a slight blush.
McGonagall waved her hand dismissively. ''Please take care of it now. We will discuss more at another time.''
Tom nods again in respect to the woman before pulling Harry out of his chair and walking out of the office, Sirius on their heels.
Tom then pulls them suddenly into an alcove Harry didn't even know existed, but Sirius doesn't seem surprised, so it's possible Harry just didn't know about it.
''You trust her, right Harry?''
''With my life,'' Harry responds without hesitation, and Tom's shoulders seem to sag a little in relief.
''Thank Salazar, you didn't ask for a secrecy vow, so-''
Harry could hit himself, he didn't even think to ask for a vow!
''Ah, you're right, but if someone can keep this secret, it's McGonagall. You saw how she reacted. She will be fine with almost all of our plans.'' Harry tells him while grabbing Tom's hands and squeezing, understanding why Tom was panicking a little.
''I'm going home to Remus to prepare for tomorrow,'' Sirius tells them with a smirk, and Harry can see that he's practically bouncing on his feet.
''We'll handle the curse and be home soon after,'' Harry replies. When Sirius is out of sight, he quickly kisses Tom.
''I'll never be sick of that,'' Tom groans against his mouth, making Harry chuckle.
''Come on, you have a curse to break because you were stupid enough to create one.''
''I have you know that I wasn't in my right mind when I put that curse on the position.''
Harry snorts, and it doesn't take long for them to enter the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. Harry is looking around, trying to guess where the curse is located, when Tom sinks down to his knees in the middle of the room and uses his wand to lift a stone out of the floor.
Harry walks closer while Tom turns the stone so you can see the bottom of it. There are runes sketched in the stone, and Harry's eyebrows rise to his hairline.
''You used runes to curse the position?''
''Kind off, it's actually kind of stupid, the position isn't cursed, it's the classroom,'' Tom gives Harry a little nervous grin at that. ''If they would've switched classrooms, the curse would've been gone.''
Harry snorts at that. ''Wasn't Dumbledore seen as one of the smartest wizards in Britain?''
''Not the smartest, but he was one of the most powerful, he defeated Grindelwald, and he was very well versed in Alchemy, his magical powers are truly great-'' Tom wrinkles his nose a little in disgust. ''-I really don't like to compliment the old goat.''
''Me neither,'' Harry says with a laugh. He's watching while Tom is erasing the runes.
Harry lets his magic roam through the room, feeling the dark tendrils that are coming from the runes vanish slowly while Tom is working. After about five minutes, Harry feels that the dark tendrils are gone, and Tom lifts the stone back into place. You can't even see that it had been removed.
''That's done. You can now teach DADA for however long you want without getting hurt.'' Tom says with a flourish while grinning at Harry.
Harry just rolls his eyes before turning to his soon-to-be office. ''You want to destroy the pink atrocity that is on the walls in there?'' He asks while pointing over his shoulder with his thumb to the office with a mischievous grin. Tom's eyes glean in amusement, and he follows Harry immediately.
They step into the office and both grimace at the pink room with the cat pictures everywhere. The kittens are whining pitifully, trying to get attention.
''Dobby!''
A pop later and the small house-elf is in front of them, beaming at the pair. ''Master Harry and Tom, sirs! What can Dobby do for you?''
''Could you get all the kitten pictures out of here? And I don't know- sell them or something to someone who will like them?'' Harry says with a wave of his hand. It's not that Umbridge will know what happened to her precious kitten plates.
Dobby is nodding and snaps his fingers, making all the cat pictures disappear. ''Yes, sir, Master Harry, sir!'' Dobby replies before popping away.
It's a lot more silent now inside, and Harry sighs in relief.
''They were creeping me out.''
Tom chuckles, ''so what do you want to do with all that pink?'' Harry grins again. ''We should redecorate. Pink isn't my color,''
''No, green is more your color,'' Tom says in a whisper, suddenly a whole lot closer than Harry expected. Harry doesn't jump, but he shivers a little with want.
He turns, puts his hands on Tom's hips, and pulls him in a bit. Not looking away from those blueish-green eyes. ''Want to know what our magic looks like together?'' Harry whispers against Tom's lips, already closing his own eyes.
''What do you mean, sweetheart?''
A shiver wracks Harry's frame again, and he swallows heavily. ''Close your eyes, and let your magic go,'' Is Harry's response before he claims Tom's lips, doing the same with his own magic.
Tom moans against his lips, but Harry swallows it down. He feels their magic swirl around them. It almost seems to dance together. Harry lets himself go. He pushes Tom against the wall, Tom gasps when his back collides with the stone surface, but Harry doesn't relent with his lips.
He licks into Tom's mouth, moaning while he tries to get closer, trying to become one with Tom.
He grinds his hips and feels Tom's hard cock through their robes. Harry groans and cups Tom's bulge. Tom bucks into his hand and hisses.
With just a thought, Harry feels naked skin. He pulls back, panting but still doesn't open his eyes. He steps even closer, feeling his own leaking cock rub against Tom's. Tom moans, and Harry puts his hands on Tom's cheeks. He feels with his thumbs if Tom's eyes are still closed. He smiles when he feels that Tom is still trusting him.
''Keep your eyes closed and your magic open.'' He whispers again. Talking louder feels like a sin.
''W-what are you going to do, Harry?'' Tom asks, sounding a little breathless.
Harry kisses him again before placing kisses against Tom's cheek, then he goes lower to Tom's chin, neck, collarbone, and he keeps going down until he's kneeling in front of Tom and puts a hand on Tom's hard cock. He leans in and licks all over the cock in front of him, making it wetter and easier for Harry to put the cock in his mouth and bob his head.
Tom is moaning above him, and he fists a hand in Harry's hair. He hisses in response at first, but the pressure on his scalp feels amazing, and Harry's head empties a little. His thoughts buzz a little around his head, but he's mostly focusing on Tom's cock. He's sucking and trying to put Tom's cock further and further in his mouth, but unfortunately, he needs to back off a couple of times because he starts to choke. Tom's hand doesn't relent and pushes a couple of times, making Harry moan each time the hand puts more pressure on his head.
''Sweetheart-'' How Tom still sounds so composed is something Harry almost pouts about because he feels like he's falling apart by the seams. ''-I'm close,'' The words send a thrill through Harry, and he only moans and sucks harder, not even wanting to pull off while Tom starts bucking his hips a little with a loud moan. Harry feels the muscles in Tom's thighs tense, and another low groan rips itself from Tom's throat before Harry tastes salty spurts on his tongue and in the back of his throat. The taste is a bit tacky, but Harry still swallows after pulling away from Tom.
Tom pulls Harry's hair again, making him hiss, but he follows the hand obediently up. His knees ache a little from kneeling on the hard floor, but when he's standing again, it's worth it, Tom almost attacks his mouth, and he forgets that his knees are hurting.
''You were perfect, sweetheart,'' Tom whispers against him, and Harry squeezes his hands harder around Tom's biceps. Feeling incredibly turned on, and the little endearment is something Harry really starts to love.
Tom turns them around and guides Harry, so he's with his face to the wall and leaning on it with his hands. Harry frowns a little, almost wanting to open his eyes and ask what Tom is doing, but before he gets the chance, Tom's hand is getting lower and lower on Harry's body.
''Put your feet a little more apart, sweetheart,'' Tom whispers, and Harry obeys immediately, not knowing what Tom is planning but entirely on board with it.
Tom whispers a spell, and Harry yelps when he feels something cold rushing through the most private part of himself.
''Sorry about that,'' Tom says, but Harry can hear he's amused, not sorry at all. ''Asshole,'' Harry hisses back before choking a little when he feels Tom's breath on his hole. He hadn't even heard Tom sink to his knees. Tom then licks over Harry's hole, and if Harry's eyes weren't still closed, his eyes would've rolled back in his head.
Tom starts licking him with vigor, and Harry's knees begin to tremble after just a few minutes. ''T-Tom,'' Harry moans out, not knowing how he can let know that he wants more, so much more, but he can't even find regular words at the moment.
''Shh, I got you, sweetheart,'' Tom murmurs. Harry hears another whisper of a spell and then feels wet substance enter him with a finger of Tom's.
The intrusion is something that feels weird, and Harry thought it would hurt, but he's relaxed enough from the rimming Tom's given him to not feel any pain at all with the first finger.
Tom's other hand is stroking Harry's back, mapping his lithe body with rough fingers with a soft touch. Tom uses a second finger now, and Harry hisses at the burn, but then Tom touches something inside of him that sets his body on fire.
He moans loudly and lets his head fall between his arms. He's panting and trying to feel everything Tom is doing to him and wanting yet again more.
''What do you want, Harry?'' Tom is practically purring at this point, and Harry moans again, he doesn't know what he wants, but he really wants to come so badly.
''Do you want me to rim you again?'' Tom whispers in his ear, nipping at his earlobe. Harry groans again, can't find the words, he's only feeling what Tom is doing to him, and it feels amazing.
''Do you want to come down my throat?'' This time he sucks at Harry's neck, and Harry's head lolls to the side, so Tom has more room. Harry is fucking himself on Tom's fingers, he feels filled and stretched so good, but he starts to think he wants even more.
''Ah, sweetheart, do you want me to fuck you against the wall?''
Harry didn't even know he could make this sound, and before he fully registers it, his orgasm rushes through him, and he comes messily against the wall. Tom moves his fingers lazily to let him come down from his high slowly. Kissing all over his shoulder and neck, everywhere he can reach while still having two fingers buried in Harry's ass
His other arm is around Harry's waist, holding him up because his knees have become weak after that orgasm.
Harry starts to turn around, and Tom meets him in the middle. They kiss lazily for a moment before Harry pulls back to breathe.
''Next time, you're fucking me against the wall,''
Tom laughs and touches Harry's face, ''can we open our eyes now?''
Harry nods in response and opens his eyes slowly. He sees that Tom felt the nod and is also opening his eyes. Harry can't help himself and kisses Tom again, slowly and deeply. A promise that he wants this for a long time.
When they open their eyes again, they finally look around the room. Their magic has worked together to change the office, and Harry gasps.
''It's beautiful,'' Tom murmurs, and Harry just nods.
The pink is all gone. The old desk and knick-knacks around the room are all gone. The walls are painted dark blue and green, almost black, and all over the walls are stars. Harry recognizes constellations all over the wall and is amazed by the display.
Harry still needs to fill the space with stuff for the actual work he needs to do, but the whole office feels good around him. His magic is humming in glee around him, and he feels remnants of Tom's magic too. It feels like the office is completely his now. And his magic approves.
He glances at Tom and sees Tom smiling while also looking around the room.
''You're going to be one of the best teachers here.''
''You don't know that,'' Harry scolds half-heartedly.
''I do know, especially because every time you go to your office, and you see this, you remember the first time where you were on your knees for me and I for you,''
Harry groans and waves his hand, dressing them both again before turning to Tom, who is now pouting while looking at his robes.
''We are going home first, and then you can talk about sex again, but we are not going to defile my office anymore.''
''Spoilsport,'' Tom grumbles, but he grabs Harry's hand and rubs his thumb over his knuckles, letting Harry know he doesn't mean any of it.
Sirius's POV;
''They did it! They did it!'' He yells as soon as he steps out of the flames of the floo. He locates his future hubby, who clearly was worrying all over the place.
''It worked?'' Remus chokes out, and Sirius can't help himself. He launches himself at the werewolf. Remus's arms circle around him in reflex and hold on to him with everything he has.
''It worked!'' He hears Harry reply behind him, a laugh in his Godson's voice.
When he looks around and pulls back out of Remus's hold, still beaming and wanting to celebrate until the late hours, he sees a thrilled Harry. Tom isn't far behind him. He smiles at them and looks fondly at Harry. Their relationship is still secret to the outside world, but inside the mansion, well, Tom doesn't hold back any emotions there. Nobody had even noticed Harry apparating out of the Wizengamot chamber all those months ago. There was just too much happening. Well, nobody but Bones had noticed, but she is now informed about everything Harry and Tom want to do in the Wizarding world. At first, she hesitated, but she is now seeing the whole picture and picking the fruits of their labor.
''All the creatures that can function as human are at this moment no longer seen as dangerous to society and can get an education or job in the wizarding world as long as they make sure they are taking the correct potions to suppress the dangerous side of their creature heritage.'' Harry declares, practically dancing with Tom but more dragging him in circles. Tom just let it happen but is laughing too.
''The potions I have made with Snape will be available for vampires, werewolves, and hags. But they will be seen as human subspecies instead of creatures, just like centaurs and merpeople. Everyone who wants to get into the wizarding society will be welcome. Nobody will be pushed if they want to keep things like they are now. If our numbers are correct, it will be mostly vampires and werewolves who will want the potions, mostly so they won't suffer from moon sickness or bloodlust.'' Tom explains again, dipping Harry deep down, earning a loud laugh from his Godson. Sirius can't believe the change he sees in Harry, he knows he has Lord Death to thank for that, but a lot is also thanks to Tom.
Sirius was afraid that Tom hadn't changed at first, but it's clear that Tom and Voldemort are two completely different people. Tom truly wants to change the wizarding world for the good of it, together with Harry and with a little help from others.
Sirius can't see Voldemort in Tom anymore. Maybe it's because Tom seems genuinely happy.
''I demand drinks for the entire household!'' He exclaims, making Remus laugh behind him. Kreacher immediately pops in with champagne and multiple glasses.
''Master Black called for drinks,'' He says with a grin aimed at Sirius. Something Sirius had never expected but doesn't mind, not since he has made his peace with the house-elf.
The glasses are passed around and filled quickly. ''I toast to Harry James Potter - Peverell, and Tom Marvolo Riddle, but let's call him Thomas Slytherin, the two wizards who almost single-handedly are changing the British wizarding world! What's next on the agenda, boys?''
Harry rolls his eyes, of course, but replies nonetheless. ''Next are the affinity rituals,''
Sirius puts his arm around Harry's shoulder and pulls him against him until he can whisper in his ear.
''Remus and I are so proud of you, and I just know that James and Lily are as well.''
Harry stiffens first before relaxing against Sirius. ''Thank you, Padfoot,''
Sirius claps him on the back before pulling back, ' feelings' time is over. It's time for booze.
Harry's POV;
Harry is biting in an apple while walking through the corridors of Hogwarts, it's his turn in patrolling, and he's a little bored. Fred and George don't prank on the nights he's patrolling. Something about being their favorite and hottest professor, Harry isn't sure. He was a bit flustered when they were talking to him.
It's almost the end of term, and he's proud of how the year has gone. He knows that almost every student of his will get at least an A for their OWL's or NEWT's.
Hermione was frantic and bordering on a burnout, but thankfully she got through with help of Ginny, Luna, Lavender, and Draco. Harry helped too, of course, but every time they talked, she tried to maneuver it to DADA. She did the same to Sirius with Transfiguration and Remus with History of Magic. Remus had taken over from Binns as soon as the new laws had gone through. He needed to work exceptionally hard to get his students up to speed, but every student loves his lessons.
Harry tosses the apple core in the air right to him, and it disappears into Brutus's mouth. The Hellhound is trotting happily next to him. Apparently, the Hellhound missed Harry too much and was whining continually to Death. Who got sick of it eventually and sent Brutus to Harry as a pet.
Brutus has a special charm around his neck, like a collar, so it won't cost any magic for him to be in the wizarding world. It had been a hassle for McGonagall to accept a dog in the halls, and when Harry told her that it was a Hellhound, she refused, right up until she met the Hellhound.
Because Brutus is like a puppy, the hound won't hurt anyone until ordered to do so. And he will only listen to Harry or Death. Not even to Tom, Sirius or Remus.
So McGonagall finally relented and let Brutus into Hogwarts, he still goes home with Harry every evening, but he likes walking through Hogwarts, loves the attention from the students, and the belly scratches.
And Brutus enjoys scaring the living shit out of Snape. Harry and Sirius approve, even if they have been hexed a couple of times by the potions teacher in retaliation.
Hellhounds can shadow travel, and in the dungeons are a lot of shadows. That's all Harry has to say about that.
Brutus suddenly yips happily, and Harry raises his eyebrow. Brutus looks at an alcove just ahead and wags his tail in excitement.
''Please step out, and tell me why you aren't in bed, and I will see if I'm going to dock points,'' Harry tells the student who is probably hiding from him.
The air shimmers, and Tom suddenly appears, his notice-me-not charm canceled. ''Using Brutus in unfair, I only wanted to surprise you,'' Tom says with a sigh.
Harry grins and steps closer. Brutus runs to Tom and starts begging for attention.
''Yeah, yeah, you're cute, go home to Nagini. She asked where you've been,'' Tom says to the Hellhound. He barks in response and runs into the shadow in the corner, traveling to the Peverell estate without any issue.
Harry looks around and sees no one, so he darts forward and kisses Tom quickly.
''What kind of surprise did you have for me?'' Harry asks with a smile.
''We have received an invitation for the Wizengamot ball, and your darling friend Izzy has claimed you as her date,'' Tom replies with a smirk. Harry groans. He hates social gatherings, especially if he needs to be the perfect Lord the whole night while he actually wants to have fun with Izzy. Because of his job as DADA professor, they don't see each other very often, but because Izzy is an heiress of a pureblood family, she is sometimes at the balls the Wizengamot organizes.
Since the attack of Dumbledore on the Wizengamot, the Dark and Light sections are communicating better and mellowing out, which means there are suddenly a lot of parties, and everyone is inviting everyone, just to boast about how much money they have. But they are rallied together to find and punish Dumbledore, who has been in the wind since the attack.
Sirius and Tom want to throw their own party at the Peverell manor, but Harry refuses.
''That is not a nice surprise. I was hoping for something fun, not a ball I need to get to, while I cannot even go with my own boyfriend.''
Tom brushes his hand over Harry's cheekbone. ''That wasn't the surprise,'' Tom tells him, and Harry narrows his eyes.
''Then what is?'' Harry asks while Tom smirks at him.
He starts pulling Harry along into the next corridor and then starts pacing in front of a wall. Harry looks around and suddenly realizes he's on the seventh floor, in front of the Room of Requirement. He smiles at his own memories of the place, but Tom's hand on his wrist brings him out of his head. He smiles at Tom before he starts pulling him towards the door.
''Close your eyes.''
Harry obeys easily, and Tom's breath hitches for a moment before he brings Harry's hand to his mouth and kisses his knuckles. Harry blushes and lets himself be guided through the door and into the room.
''We have been busy the last couple of weeks,''
Harry nods in response. It had been hectic, Harry was preparing his students for the exams, and Tom was making sure everything was ready for the next step in their plan. Getting approval from Bones for a pers conference for Harry and Dark magic and meeting with the Board of Governors, trying to let them see how much the affinity ritual could help all those students. Making them feel more safe and comfortable with their magic.
They had barely any time together, they did fall asleep next to each other each night, but anything more was just not possible.
Tom pushes him down onto a soft surface, and Harry laughs. ''So your surprise is ravishing me while I'm still working?''
Tom crawls on top of Harry, and Harry groans when he feels that Tom is already naked above him.
He grabs Tom's hips, and it's a struggle not to open his eyes already.
Tom leans down and captures Harry's lips before he pulls back again after a few moments and whispers against Harry. ''I thought it would be a good time for you to ravish me,''
Harry opens his eyes without being told and lunges at Tom, flipping them quickly, so he's on top.
''Yessss,'' Harry says in Parseltongue, knowing that Tom loves it when he speaks in a language which only he can understand.
Harry has until now always bottomed, but he has talked with Tom about switching, Tom wasn't ready at first, but he seems ready now. His pupils are blown wide, and he's flushed already. Harry kisses his face all over before sucking on Tom's neck until Tom bats him away.
''No hickeys I can't explain,'' He hisses a little, so Harry settles down a little lower, a place that is always covered by Tom's clothes.
He touches and licks Tom all over until Tom is shaking apart in his arms.
Harry already feels on edge just watching and hearing Tom react. He quickly uses a couple of charms to make Tom ready for him. He still uses his fingers with enough lube to make sure. Tom is panting and seems at a loss for words. He lets out a moan, and Harry chuckles dryly while pulling his fingers out of Tom.
''Mhh, are you ready, baby?'' He murmurs, not knowing why the endearment rolls out of his mouth that easily. Normally he shies away from them, but he loves it how Tom uses them. He hopes he isn't overstepping anything.
Tom pulls at Harry's shoulders, and Harry gets the hint. He guides himself slowly into Tom, biting his lip because it just feels so warm and good. It's incredibly tight, a feeling he has never felt before. He waits for Tom to adjust, and it takes a couple of moments, but then Tom slowly but surely moves his hips, and Harry takes over.
Slowly he starts to pull out before thrusting back in. He builds the rhythm and intensity of his thrusts gradually. Tom throws his head back on the bed, and he's moaning loudly, spurring Harry on even more. Harry seriously doesn't know how long he can hold it. He's already on edge, but he wants Tom to come first.
He leans back a little to take Tom's cock in his hand and starts the same rhythm he has with his hips.
''You feel amazing like this,'' Harry tells him while thrusting even harder.
Tom cries out with each thrust, and Harry thinks he's rubbing Tom's prostate with each thrust. At least he hopes he is. ''Come for me, baby, please,'' Harry asks in a breathless voice.
Tom arches his back and shoots all over Harry's hand and his own stomach. It takes Harry two extra thrusts to tumble into his own orgasm, it rushes through him, and his hearing stops, and for a moment, he only hears a buzzing in his ears.
He's panting harshly when he slowly pulls out of Tom. He places multiple kisses over Tom's chest and collarbone before slowly kissing him on the mouth while he pulls out.
He lies down next to Tom and uses his magic to clean them both. He then pulls the comforter over them so they won't get cold.
He pulls Tom closer and kisses the side of Tom's head. Tom is almost asleep when he talks. ''We're doing that again,''
Harry hums in agreement in reply before he feels Tom going boneless in his arms and hears his breathing slowing.
Harry is awake for a couple of moments longer before he whispers, ''I love you,'' to Tom. Knowing the man wouldn't have heard them and doesn't feel compelled to reply to the words.
Harry falls asleep with a smile on his face.
Tom's POV;
Tom is standing backstage, watching the press conference with hawk-like eyes. He hopes that nobody is stupid enough to attack Harry, but you'll never know.
It's going pretty well. Tom listens to how Harry is explaining to everyone what having an affinity means exactly and how it helped him with finding himself. Tom tries not to roll his eyes, but it's hard work.
''-maybe some of you already know what your affinity is, but there are a lot of confused children who don't. The general feeling about affinity is that it's your political standing, which we all know isn't correct. Another popular opinion is that all Dark magic is bad. But if Dark magic would be bad, or evil like some people call it, why do we use it every day?''
Tom loves this part of the speech, and he's looking at the crowd who is hanging on Harry's every word. Rita Skeeter doesn't miss a beat, already knowing which questions she needs to ask.
''Every day? Lord Potter - Peverell, what on earth do you mean by that?'' She can barely contain her little smirk, and Tom absolutely loathes the way she is eyeing Harry.
''What I mean is that we use Dark magic every day. Because did you know that by withdrawing money from your pouch you have gotten at Gringotts, you are actually using Dark magic? Or that if you use the cleaning spell, or de repair spell, or even a healing spell, that those are invented by wizards who are Dark according to their affinity?''
Tom grins when he hears confused murmurs all around.
''You probably didn't know that because nobody has taught you. Well, I have been, by Lady Magic and Lord Death themselves. And now some of you are going to think, 'oh, Lord Death, the epitome of Dark magic has taught you, of course, you're biased,' and yes, probably, and yes, Lord Death is practically made out of Dark magic, but Death is also a thing you need in your everyday life. Even if it's awful and tragic, it's there to keep balance .''
Harry rolls his shoulders, and Tom watches him with every move he makes. He couldn't keep his eyes away if he tried. He was captivated by Harry long before tonight, but Harry seems to sometimes just hit him in the right way that knocks the breath out of him.
''Just like Death, there needs to be balance in magic, a balance that is sorely lacking at the moment because witches and wizards in Britain are shying away from Dark magic. We are the only country that is on the verge of collapsing because we don't acknowledge and even forbid Dark magic. Witches and Wizards are no longer performing the old rituals that kept that balance. Most of you don't even know their affinity. It was also seen in how we treated people like werewolves and vampires. We treated them like scum and only creatures that couldn't think for themselves. While one of the most amazing wizards I know is a werewolf. A Dark creature that, without the new laws, couldn't hold a job but is a fantastic teacher.'' Harry takes a deep breath, and Tom feels so proud of him.
There is stunned silence, everybody here respects Harry and knows that he is powerful, but they don't even know that nobody in this room can't even hold a candle to how strong he truly is.
They know how much their children love his teachings. They know how passionate he is in the Wizengamot, fighting for what is right. And they can see that he's trying to change history, right here, right now.
Tom can see in their eyes that they want a piece of it. A piece of the man Harry has become and will continue to become. They want to be a part of the power that Harry excludes.
Too bad it is not for them to take. Not even for Tom himself, but he can bask in it.
''What I'm trying to say here is that we need more balance in Wizarding Britain, and I think - no, I know, that we need to use Dark magic again, there is a difference between Dark magic and Black magic. And I just mean Dark magic. But mostly what I - what we want, is to give a piece of everyone's identity back to them. An identity you didn't even know you were missing. That's why we, Lord Slytherin, Lord Black, and Lady McGonagall want affinity rituals back at Hogwarts. And yes, you did hear me correctly because affinity rituals were mandatory at Hogwarts until 1926. They only stopped after the rise of Grindelwald. Because he used Black magic for most of his campaign, and everybody confused it with Dark magic.''
It seemed like nobody really knew how to react. Tom could see a lot of doubt in the audience. He could see them thinking that Harry Potter had gone mad. Because he is preaching about Dark magic, and Dark magic is evil. Right?
Oh, yes, Tom could see it in detail playing out on their faces. They doubted everything they had been taught. Some of them were nodding along with Harry, believing him instantly. This was mostly the older generation.
''Dark magic doesn't mean it's evil. The only thing that makes it evil is the intent behind the spell. For example, and this one I use when I'm explaining myself about intent to students-'' He told the audience with a smirk, some chuckles and giggles were heard, but mostly it was still silent. ''-A cutting curse can be used very simply to help you in the household. You use it maybe every day to cut your meat and vegetables. Maybe it has been used on you to cut your hair, or maybe it has been used on your clothes when you were little, and your trousers were too long-''
Many people are murmuring and nodding as if agreeing with what Harry is saying.
''But the cutting curse can be seen as Dark magic because if you want to do someone harm, how easy is it to use that cutting curse? And just cut in the opponent's body?''
The audience falls silent again, and Tom sees some witches stiffen or gasp as if scandalized. Tom could almost see them remembering how they have maybe used it on their children and saw no harm.
''Magic is about intent . Dark magic isn't evil . Light magic isn't good . Nothing is just black and white. There are so many grey areas. And it's time that Britain knew that and was acting like it. We need Dark magic; otherwise, magic on its whole will start to disappear. This is something I know as a fact. Because Lady Magic herself has told me so. We have the opportunity to change, to help the wizarding world. And I say we should take it. We should all take affinity rituals, and from the start of next school year, there will be mandatory affinity rituals again in Hogwarts. And classes that will help the students with their affinity. We will make them understand what it all means and how to use their affinity safely. Thank you for your attention.'' Harry says with a nod, finishing his speech.
There is loud applause, and Harry smiles friendly at the audience.
Rita is practically jumping up and down, waving her hand to get Harry's attention.
''Yes, miss Skeeter?'' Harry says, acting like they haven't talked about this already.
''Thank you so much, Lord Potter - Peverell, for your inspiring speech-''
Laying it on thick, Rita. Stick to the plan. Tom can't help but think while narrowing his eyes at the flirting witch.
''-Could you maybe tell us if you have done the ritual?'' She simpers, and again everyone's attention is back on Harry.
''I have indeed when I was in Death's realm,'' Harry tells them with a nod.
''Could you maybe share with everyone here which affinity you have?'' Rita is blinking so fast that Tom starts to think her whimpers will fall off if she keeps it up like this. And maybe a little hex from Tom is going to help.
''Of course, I am not ashamed of my affinity,'' Harry tells them seriously and stands even a little taller.
Tom puts his hand over his mouth to hide his grin. He's ridiculously proud of his boyfriend.
''I am a Dark wizard because I have a Dark affinity. But I'm not evil. Hell, I even teach Defense against the Dark Arts at the moment. And let me tell you that this is the first year where more than 89% of the students have passed with at least an A.'' He tells them proudly, and Rita starts clapping. It doesn't take long before everyone in the audience follows. Even Tom starts clapping from backstage.
Harry seems a little flustered but pleased. He answers several other questions before thanking the crowd and making his way backstage.
Tom nods at him in greeting with a little smile. They give each other a hand because they know they are public right now.
''Are you going to be at the ball tonight, Lord Slytherin?'' Harry asks innocently.
''Of course, I wouldn't miss it,'' Tom replies easily with a nod before making his way towards the fireplaces.
They will see each other in a couple of moments, of course, but nobody knows that fact just yet.
Tom doesn't know why they haven't made it known to the rest of Britain that they are a couple. But maybe it would be a bit much with also declaring that Dark magic is actually fine.
When Tom enters the mansion, he sees a nervous McGonagall, Snape, and Sirius.
''How did it go?'' Sirius asks like a puppy seeing its master again, with barely contained energy.
''It went great. Skeeter helped a lot, making sure she was the one asking the most questions.'' Tom responded easily.
They all sighed in relief.
''I just hope that parents will understand their children next year when they are tested. It would hurt my heart to think that some may shun their children because they have an affinity they don't like.'' McGonagall huffs before drinking her scotch.
''There are going to be safe places for children that are not going to be accepted by their family. We will make sure that every child has a home with help for them and understanding.'' Remus declared, making his presence known after just entering the room.
Just then, Harry entered through the floo, looking a bit ruffled and frowning.
''Are you okay? Did someone harass you?'' Tom asked immediately, scanning Harry to see if he was hurt or not.
''I'm fine. Just-'' He sighed and rubbed his hand through his hair. Making it stick up in all directions. ''-Lydia found me again.'' He told them with a grimace, making Tom growl in frustration.
The witch was getting insufferable. It was clear she had the biggest crush on Harry, but it bordered on stalking.
''Can't you file a complaint with Scrimgeour? She's her boss, right?'' Sirius asked with a frown.
Harry sighed smiled gratefully at Snape when he handed over a glass of whiskey and took a big sip. ''I would, but I don't want her to get in trouble for just a crush.''
''She's stalking you, Harry. It's not just a crush. It could become dangerous.'' Remus told him seriously.
''I know, if it makes you feel better, if it has not stopped next week, I'll go to Scrimgeour. She backed off just now after I told her I have a date for tonight after she heavily hinted that she wanted to go with me.'' Harry told them with a roll of his eyes.
They talked for a little while longer, Harry changing the subject because he truly didn't want to talk about Lydia.
Tom pulls Harry from the room to get ready for the Wizengamot ball. Harry still needed to pick up Isabella Blackwood for the ball, so he needed to haste.
Tom eyes Harry openly, licking his lips and hoping that the ball would be over soon so they could come back to their home and room to ravish each other.
''I can practically feel your eyes on me,'' Harry murmurs, not even bothering to turn around to look at Tom.
Tom sidles up to him and plasters himself to Harry's back, encircling Harry's waist and kissing the back of Harry's neck before nuzzling a little.
''Are you bothered by me looking at you?'' Tom asks Harry looking at him in the mirror they are in front of now.
Harry's green emerald eyes meet his. Clearly amused.
''No, but I was hoping we were wearing fewer clothes.''
Tom groans and presses his forehead against the top of Harry's spine. It wasn't a comfortable position, but Tom didn't want to let go.
''I want that too. You have no idea what I want to do to you right now.''
''Then tell me,''
Harry's voice has turned a little husky, and Tom revels in it.
''Are you sure, sweetheart-'' Tom doesn't hold his smirk when he feels Harry bodily react to the name. ''-because it could turn into a problem, and Isabella will not be pleased if you leave her waiting.''
Harry turns around to face Tom and pulls him into a heated kiss. When he pulls back, Tom is a little disorientated and breathless.
''Let that be a promise for tonight,'' Harry murmurs against Tom's lips before pulling away, smirking.
''You little minx,'' Tom snaps, more amused and obviously not irritated.
Harry laughs, and Tom can't help but join him.
Salazar. He's so gone for this man.
Harry's POV;
''I spy, with my little eye - ego problems, a toupet, and a see me being rich attitude,''
Harry snorts and quickly hides his laugh in a cough glaring without heat at Izzy. She smirks back at him. ''That's rude, miss Blackwood, and the answer is - all of the men and some women,''
''Lord Potter - Peverell, don't be ridiculous-'' Izzy says seriously before continuing. ''-the women don't wear toupets. They were wigs or extensions, I read it in a muggle magazine,''
Harry turns away to 'cough' again. ''You are the absolute worst. Why did I even take you?'' He whispers when she is just smiling mischievously at him.
''Because your boy-toy-''
''He's older than me, Izz-''
''-wouldn't take you, and I'm clearly the life of the party,'' She continues as if he didn't speak at all.
Harry just shakes his head amused. He didn't expect to have fun tonight, and the first two hours, he didn't, not really. He was stuck talking to people and putting on his 'pretty heir face,' as Izzy likes to call it.
But Izzy made it bearable and a little fun as soon as they were out of hearing shot of anyone.
''Incoming,'' Izzy whispered, and Harry barely suppressed a groan only to smile when he saw Tom walking towards them.
''Lord Slytherin, good to see you here tonight. Are you having fun?'' Harry asked politely.
Tom rolled his eyes, knowing for sure that nobody saw it.
''Lord Potter - Peverell, Heiress Blackwood-'' Tom gave them both a nod that Harry returned, and Izzy curtsied, ''-it's a lovely evening, I just talked with Lord Diggory,'' Tom gave them a grimace. Harry chuckled behind his hand, knowing that dealing with Diggory senior was a pain in the ass.
They talked a while before they were interrupted by Lord Greengrass. They spoke a little about politics until they were yet again interrupted, but this time with drinks.
Harry thought he saw a little glimmer beneath the waitress's face but put it out of his mind. He accepted the drink and started talking again with Lord Greengrass about a new bill they would propose in the next meeting when Harry's attention was suddenly pulled to Izzy.
Izzy gasped, and when Harry looked at her, her eyes rolled back in her head. He was just in time to catch her when she started to collapse.
''Izzy?! Izzy!'' He started frantically, not knowing what was wrong with her.
Tom crashed next to them on the floor after Harry had lowered Izzy carefully to the ground. She was writhing in his grasp, and foam was starting to come out of her mouth.
He turned her to the side, hoping that everything that needed to come out came out quickly.
Harry was panicking, and he knew it, but Harry's brain was frozen for a moment. He couldn't comprehend what was happening to his friend and was afraid of what could happen.
''She's been poisoned! Call a healer!'' Harry heard Tom call, but Harry just knew it would be too late. They needed action now .
Harry had never been so glad for Severus Snape when his first-ever potion class came to mind.
''Accio Bezoar!'' He roared, noting absently the silence that followed until a whizzing sound filled it within seconds.
Multiple bezoars flew towards him, but with his Seeker reflexes, he caught one and banished the others without a second glance. He then saw that Tom had already pulled Izzy's mouth open as wide as it could so he could push the Bezoar in her mouth.
As soon as the Bezoar was in her mouth, the thrashing stopped, and her body seemed to sigh in relief.
Lord Greengrass was holding people back until a healer rushed through the crowd and started diagnostic charms on Izzy. Meanwhile, Harry's mind was going wild.
As Tom said, it was poison, and it had probably been in the drinks, but had it been meant for Izzy? Or was it meant for Tom, Harry, or Lord Greengrass? Was the culprit already gone?
Harry couldn't leave Izzy's side and went with the healer to St. Mungo's when she activated the Portkey to it. Harry had absentmindedly noted that Tom had the situation under control. He would find out what was happening and who had done it. Harry only knew that he would never forgive himself if he was the original target and Izzy had been caught in the crossfire.
Harry was pacing the corridor in St. Mungo's when Izzy's parents and Septima Rosier came bursting in. Septima immediately hugged him tightly with tears all over her face.
''How is she?'' Septima asked, and Harry turned to Izzy's parents before answering.
''Lord and Lady Blackwood, my sincere apologies that this happened tonight. What we know for sure at the moment is that Izzy had been poisoned. I gave her a bezoar as soon as I thought about it, and after we came to St. Mungo's I haven't gotten an update. I'm so sorry.'' Harry told the three sincerely.
''No apologies needed, Lord Potter - Peverell, you weren't the one poisoning her. We know that for a fact. Thank you for your quick thinking with the bezoar.'' Lady Blackwood tells him before pulling him into a quick but firm motherly hug.
Harry clears his throat, feeling a little choked up because of Lady Blackwood. Lord Blackwood is a man of few words and only claps him on the shoulder with a sincere expression.
Septima stays close to Harry, their hands not letting go while they wait for more information on Izzy.
After three hours, a healer finally finds them and gives them some news.
''Lord and Lady Blackwood, Lord Potter - Peverell, heiress Rosier-'' The healer already seems tired with just naming all the titles, ''-heiress Blackwood is going to make a full recovery, she hasn't woken up yet, but we suspect that it won't take long.'' They are all relieved and smile a little at the healer. ''But she has been poisoned with a rare potion. It was a potion that had been banned for a couple of centuries. That's why it took so long for her to stabilize. The book the potion was in is extremely rare, but thankfully one of our healers had it at home.'' The healer seems a little frustrated about this.
Harry frowns. ''What were the potion and book called?''
''Bottled Jealousy, and it can be found in The Black Grimoire, the name was given to the potion because jealous witches and wizards used it on others. It makes the drinker feel like their insides were burning up while they also can't breath because the fluids in their lungs expand. It-it is truly a torturous potion. That's why it has been banned.'' The healer gives them all a sympathetic look.
''But thankfully, the bezoar Lord Potter - Peverell used helped heiress Blackwood fight the poison quite quickly.''
Harry ducks his head. He doesn't want to receive praise while he froze when Izzy had collapsed.
''Thank you for the update, healer Simmons.'' Lady Blackwood replies regally. The healer nods.
''You can see her if you want. We think she will wake up within the hour.'' Healer Simmons tells them before he goes to one of the other rooms.
Harry holds himself back, not wanting to impose, but Septima is having none of it and pulls him forcefully into the room.
He glares at her for a moment before mouthing 'rude' at her, and she gives him a small smile.
They wait in silence for a long time, and it's Izzy who breaks the silence when she wakes up. She groans loudly, Septima is on her right, grabbing her hand immediately, and Lady Blackwood is doing the same on Izzy's other side.
Izzy opens her eyes groggily, looks around the room, and groans again.
''I didn't even get to eat Hors d' oeuvres.'' She rasps out, startling a laugh out of everyone, even her stoic father.
''I'm glad you're okay, Izz,'' Harry says sincerely.
''Me too,'' She responds with a small smile.
Her mother brushes her hair out of her face, and Harry feels like he should leave.
''Please let me know when you're home again, I'm going to check on the investigation, and I will see you as soon as you're feeling better, okay?'' Harry tells Izzy, and she gives him a small nod.
He then says his goodbye to Lord and Lady Blackwood and Septima before leaving St. Mungos.
Harry has no idea if the investigation is still going or if it will continue tomorrow because it's already pretty late. He apparates home, hoping to find Tom.
As soon as he lands in the foyer, he sees Tom pacing. When Tom hears the crack, he looks at Harry and hurries to him to pull him into his arms.
Harry doesn't sob, but he does let some tears fall. He had been so afraid he would lose Izzy tonight. Tom just holds him and strokes his back. It calms him down slowly, and Harry all but sags in Tom's hold.
''Have they found the culprit?''
''No, not yet, but they're close. The last update I got was that they had identified the potion that had been used. They will check tomorrow who was on the list of purchasing the ingredients.''
Harry nods against Tom's shoulder. He feels drained, and Tom seems to know it. He apparates them to their room and uses wandless and wordless magic to undress Harry. Tom then helps Harry to bed and undresses himself quickly before joining Harry.
Harry lets himself be held by Tom and tries to get some sleep. It takes a while before he finally falls asleep.
Harry and Tom are awake early. They eat something Dobby has made and make their way to the Ministry to talk with the Aurors at the DMLE.
Harry almost groans out loud when he sees Lydia behind the desk. She perks up immediately when she sees Harry but frowns when her eyes fall on Tom.
They are walking closely together, and Harry catches himself leaning into Tom's warmth. But they are in public, so he can't lean completely on Tom right now.
Harry gives Lydia a small smile. ''Hello Lydia, I just came to check if there was more information about the current investigation about the poisoning from heiress Blackwood, do you know-''
''Oh, Harry! I'm so sorry about your girlfriend, but I can't give you any details-'' She simpers until Tom cuts her off.
''Girlfriend?'' He asks with a frown. He then looks at Harry with an incredulous expression, but Harry is at a loss, too, so he just shrugs.
''Yes, his girlfriend, Lord Slytherin, the girl with the long black hair, blue eyes, and the red dress?''
Harry frowns again, but now about Lydia's choice of words because he hadn't seen Lydia at the ball yesterday. And he is sure that she would've found him to talk to him.
''Isabella Blackwood isn't his girlfriend,'' Tom says slowly. Lydia sputters for a moment, her face turning almost as red as her hair.
''But she was all over him! She was whispering in his ear, and holding his arm, and making him laugh-''
''Were you at the ball, Lydia? I didn't think I saw you,'' Harry asks suddenly as nonchalant as possible, but he has a sinking feeling in his gut.
''Y-No! No, I wasn't invited, my name isn't in the sacred 28, and my family doesn't have a Wizengamot seat.'' She says surly, but she is avoiding his eyes now.
Harry glances at Tom, and Tom is also frowning. Harry then leans forward on Lydia's desk and gives her a smile. Tom stiffens next to him, but Harry hears him sigh. Probably already knowing what is going to happen. ''Too bad that you weren't. You would've probably looked great in a green dress,'' He even winks at her, and she gulps, practically turning into goo. She leans forward, too, as if she doesn't have another choice.
''I have the prettiest green dress. I would love to show it to you some time.'' She replies breathlessly. Harry gives her another smile. ''I would like that. I have a quick question, how are your potion skills?''
''They're great. I had the highest scores in my class,'' She replies with an excited glint in her eyes. Tom pretends to hurl out of her sight, but Harry sees it and his smile becomes more genuine because of Tom.
''Truly? That's amazing. Then you probably also have a lot of potion books. My family has a lot in their library, but I still miss a couple, like Advanced Brews, Herbal potions volume 19, and what was it called, black something-'' He snaps his fingers as if he's thinking.
''The Black Grimoire?! I have that! You could borrow it, or you know what, I don't need it anymore, you can have it! If you want!'' Lydia says eagerly.
''You truly have The Black Grimoire?'' Harry asks in a tone as if he's taken aback. He glances at Tom, and Tom looks livid before he quickly turns and storms to the Auror offices. Lydia is thankfully ignorant of Tom's quick departure.
''Yes! I have made a couple of potions from that one, and they are so difficult, but I had no problem with that at all.'' She gushes, trying so hard to impress Harry.
''Mh, really? What is the most challenging potion you've made?'' He asks, leaning even further on her desk.
''Felix Fortunatis, but it's only challenging because it takes six months to brew,'' She answers immediately. Harry nods eagerly before he sees Scrimgeour coming their way with Tom and a couple of Aurors.
''And do you know the Bottled Jealously potion? I always had difficulties with that one.'' Harry says, fishing for the last straw.
Lydia doesn't even notice how she is digging her own grave, completely captivated by talking to Harry. She nods rapidly in response to Harry's question.
''I didn't have any difficulties. You only need to use a silver spoon when stirring, but otherwise, the potion is easy to make!''
Harry's smile falls off his face, and he leans back with a sneer aimed at Lydia.
''Lydia, did you use Bottled Jealousy on my friend heiress Isabella Blackwood?''
Lydia's face goes white, and she stumbles unattractively. ''No! Of course not, I would never-''
''Could you repeat that statement with Veritaserum?'' Tom asks behind her, and she whips around to see Scrimgeour and Aurors standing there with narrowed eyes.
''I-I have rights! I don't have to defend myse-'' She starts, but she is interrupted by Scrimgeour.
''You are on the list of buyers of the ingredients. We are going to question you, and we will apply Veritaserum like is regular with attempted murder, especially that of an heir of a noble house.''
Panic flashes over Lydia's face, and Harry feels a little delight because of it. Lydia then turns back to Harry.
''You deserve someone so much better! I could be that! But you never saw me! You never gave me a chance!'' She shrieks.
''Because I wasn't attracted to you, Lydia. And now you've hurt one of my best friends, almost killed her. You are going to Azkaban for a long time.'' He then steps closer so he can whisper to her.
''Be glad it's Azkaban because if I would've had my way, you would have suffered so much more before I gave you the relief of Death. But don't forget Lydia -'' He sneers at this but keeps his voice low so the Aurors won't hear his threats. ''-My father is Lord Death. As soon as you let out your last breath, he will be there, and he will make sure you suffer. And when he's done with you, I will take his place,''
Harry leans back to see the terror on her face. She's as pale as snow, making her hair seem like flames around her.
''Besides, I already have someone better,'' Harry then tells her on a normal level before looking at Tom and holding out his hand.
Tom takes it and places a kiss on Harry's cheek before he turns to smirk at the gobsmacked girl. She seems too stunned to reply, only looking with a mounting horror that Harry and Tom are together.
''You poisoned the wrong person, but be glad, because if you had hurt Tom-'' Harry shakes his head and closes his eyes. ''-it would be so much worse.''
''Take her away, Scrimgeour,'' Tom says simply, and Harry takes delight at how she is dragged away.
He leans back into Tom's hold, closing his eyes for a moment. He knows he just came out to the Auror corps. He just hopes that-
''Lord Potter - Peverell, Lord Slytherin!''
Harry groans and pushes his face into Tom's shoulder, hoping that the shrieking voice goes away.
''Miss Skeeter,'' Tom drawls, seemingly bored.
''Can I get the scoop of the century? Are you truly together? What about all the courtships that were started? What-''
Harry raises his head and glares at the blonde woman making her fall silent. ''That's enough, Rita, yes we are together, no we are not going to court any others, and if you let us go now, I will send you information by owl about our relationship because for Godric's sake, woman, does it seem like I want to give an interview right now?''
Tom chuckles next to him and pulls him closer. Rita is positively beaming at them with a greedy look, and Harry decides that that's enough excitement for today.
''Expect my owl, Rita,'' Harry says before pulling Tom away and towards the floo network in the Atrium. He is going home and will probably sleep for a couple of days.
Lord knows, he deserves it.