AN Hey all, here's chapter five for you. I just wanted to lay down a few dates before you actually started reading. First, Harry moved to Hogsmede on June twenty third- making the twenty-forth the day he and Draco got together. Therefore, Christmas eve is their six month annaversary. I really don't go to into detail about that though. Hope you like this. There's a nice little surprise on page fourteen. *insert evil laugh*
=================================
Chapter 5
Throughout the basketball season, the Hogwarts Pythons were undefeated. Winning game after game, and celebrating after the more victorious ones. There were a few teams that were a bit more challenging, such as Durmstang Prep, another rich private school. However, they seemed a little more vain and rather smug, loosing concentration in the last minute of the game. Therefore, the Pythons just barely managed to squeak through with the win.
All in all, since the very first game, to the now nearly down with the season games, which *hopefully* would make them eligible for the Britain Junior Basketball Tournament, the Pythons were very happy with their team, and made a point of practicing even harder then before, just to prove that they wanted to win.
Other things made Harry happy as well. Seamus, much to his delight, (and Draco's relief) had stopped coming onto Harry, and began spending more time just being a good friend. Draco, after his night with Harry, seemed slightly more touchy-feely, not that Harry *minded*. To tell the truth, he reveled in it.
Some people, however, seemed a bit bothered by their frequent public displays of affection.
"Mr. Malfoy! Mr. Potter!" An angry chemistry teacher shouted, breaking the boys apart. "If you two would stop displaying your affections to the world-" He left off there, still glaring heatedly.
"Sorry, Professor Snape," Harry and Draco chorused.
Snape glared at them before continuing down the hallway towards the faculty lounge.
"Slimy git." Harry muttered, watching him go.
Draco elbowed him playfully. "Don't insult him!" He protested, laughing. "Not until we're off campus, anyway."
"Speaking of..." Harry mused, "I'm hungry, let's go get lunch before our chance is over." He grabbed the blonds hand and started tugging him down the hall. They passed Snape, grinning innocently, and nearly sprinted towards the parking lots.
"Christmas soon," Harry smiled, after they had gotten into Draco's car and playing with said blonds fingers. "And the Winter Formal."
Draco nodded and stuck the keys in the ignition.
Harry sighed and began digging through one of his extremely baggy pockets. Finally, he pulled out a brightly colored paper and passed it over. "Would you like to go to the dance with me, Draco, or shall I find someone else to share this ticket with?"
Draco smiled and took the ticket. "I thought you'd never ask."
The two boys spend the remainder of lunch making out in the car.
===
Art class, the next day, was odd - to say the least. Mr. Black, their slightly psychotic teacher, had decided to start a new project.
"Written art!" The man shouted, causing them all to jump in surprise. "Art of words - used to fuel the imagination. I want you all to write a poem today during class, and then read it to your partner. Tonight, draw the poem you heard and give it to that person. Next Monday night, we'll present the poems and drawings to the class and parents."
He passed out a requirement sheet, instructing them all to read it before they began.
Harry smiled and picked up his pencil, scribbling madly. Draco, took a moment to collect his thoughts before writing out with equal speed.
"Alright," Black called out after twenty minutes. "You should have finished writing your poems, you may now read them aloud to your partners.
Harry shuffled a little closer to Draco, resting his head on the blonds shoulder. He cleared his throat and began reading the poem he had just finished writing.
"I wish I could taste your tempting lips
In a sweet kiss against mine,
Returning my emotions with your's identical"
He paused, not daring to look at Draco before taking a deep breath and continuing. On and on the poem went, always about Draco, and everything he meant to Harry. Harry finished reading and slowly lowered his piece of notebook paper back to the desk, waiting for Draco's approval. Draco smiled and gave his hand a quick squeeze and placing a light kiss on his cheek before reading aloud his own poem.
"Like a shiver down my back,
You appeared in my life,
Passing to me the thrill of emotions:
Because I hadn't felt them.
Like a sweet faced angel,
You graced me with heavens light
And made sure I understood:
Because I didn't."
He paused and smiled, plowing on with his reading, his voice sounding slightly husky with repressed emotions. His poem was about Harry - and Harry's patience and love and beauty. The bell rang just as Draco finished reading, but neither boy moved. Harry seemed to have frozen in his seat, his cheeks flushed. Suddenly, in a burst of energy, he flung himself at the blond.
"Thank you," he whispered before their mouths met. "Thank you, thank you!" He continued kissing, touching Draco's face gently.
Draco chuckled lowly. "Sprout always said I had a way with words..."
Harry dropped his face to Draco's shoulder. "I'm glad," he whispered, kissing the flesh he found there.
Mr. Black suddenly re-entered the room. "Boys," he said, mock sternly, "I'll have to ask you to snuggle in a different classroom, I would suggest Professor Snape's, but I think he would try to kill me by some chemical explosion, - so maybe a bathroom. I have projects to grade here."
Harry reluctantly stepped away form his boyfriend. "Yes sir," he said, eyes still bright with happiness.
They left the art building to spend their lunch in a more secluded spot.
===
The Monday of the Written Art fair, Harry was unusually excited. It ever progressed to the point where he wished basketball practice would just *end* already! Draco was quick to notice, though he didn't say anything.
When the Potter's finally did arrive at school for the fair, Harry found that not only did the art class come, a good portion of the school had also come. Though, it could just be coincidence. The whole Malfoy family was also there, giving Harry the chance to meet Mrs. Malfoy.
But before Harry's parents could comment to the Malfoy's about their sons seemingly perfect relationship, the art teacher hailed them.
"Harry!" Mr. Black called, hurrying over. "I just wanted to mention that your depiction of Draco's poem was excellent. As was your's, Draco," he then added, glancing over at the blond. "I was wondering if you would be willing to allow me to enter that piece in a small competition... nothing big, the prize money is about five hundred pounds for first place, two fifty for second, I believe."
Harry's gapped. "You really think it could win something?"
Black nodded. "Most definitely."
Their conversation was cut off, however, by James.
"Padfoot?" He asked, "Sirius Black of Privet Primary School?"
Mr. Black looked somewhat surprised. "Yes, I- JAMES?" He looked absolutely flabbergasted. "James Potter? It's been forever!"
James laughed and clapped the other man on the back while Harry and Draco exchanged confused glances and the elder Malfoy's began walking away.
"Harry, Sirius and I used to be best friends! We had known each other since we were in diapers!" James said enthusiastically to his son.
"I've got another surprise for you," Sirius said mysteriously. "HEY! MOONY, COME OVER HERE!"
Remus Lupin approached. "Yes?" He asked, before: "Prongs?!"
"Prongs?" Harry deadpanned.
"We had made up nicknames for each other," James explained, "depending on our favorite animal..." The three men began talking excitedly again, completely ignoring Harry, Draco and Lily.
"Come on, Mum," Harry said finally. "Let's go check out some art, while those three catch up."
Lily nodded and only barely managed to escape without being smacked by a wildly gesturing hand.
===
That Friday was the last basketball game before the start of the Britain Junior Tournament. And Lucius Malfoy was sitting in the stands when the Hogwarts team arrived.
"I thought he was traveling to America this month," Harry hissed, walking up to Draco in the locker room.
"That's what I thought!" Draco snapped back.
Harry flinched back, a hurt expression on his face.
Draco's icy expression melted. "I'm sorry, Harry," he sighed. "It's just - you know what he's like. He's probably only here to judge me, trying to make me nervous and screw up or something."
Harry nodded and leaned forward to embrace his boyfriend. "Yeah, I know." He stepped back and pulled out his infamous green marker, tracing another lightning bolt on his arm. He stood up and placed a quick kiss on Draco's lips.
The team then headed out onto the court to warm up a bit and listen to Coach Hooch's usual pre-game speech.
Draco was obviously nervous throughout the game. His father was sitting a little behind him and he could feel Lucius' cold, calculating gave on his neck as he called out encouragement to the team and talked to the players when they sat down. Lucius, who seemed able to read his mind at time, continued to watch, making poor Draco even more nervous.
The game finally ended, the Pythons winning, though only just. Harry came tearing off the court, ready to jump into Draco's arms. He paused for a moment, his green eyes looking into Draco's before the blond shook his head quickly. So, instead of embracing his boyfriend, Harry ran into the stands and towards his parents.
"We won!" He cried, wrapping his arms around his mothers bulging stomach.
"Congratulations sweetie," Lily cried, surprised at her sons bee-line towards her but happy all the same. "I'm so proud of you! You played wonderful!"
Harry beamed and snuck a quick glance at his boyfriend. Mr. Malfoy was talking to him, and Draco looked angry, ice slamming across his features. Then, Draco said something curt and turned on his heal and stalked towards the locker rooms where the rest of the team was busy celebrating. Lucius frowned after him and left the gym.
Harry rushed to catch up with Draco. Together, they grabbed their things and climbed into the Potter's ugly car.
"What's wrong?" Harry whispered, taking Draco's fine boned hand and bringing it to his mouth.
Draco cracked a smile. "I'll tell you later, okay?"
Harry nodded and promptly turned to his parents. "Fooooood!" He whined, "we need *fooood*!"
James sighed.
"You know," Lily said, "that's a good idea. I think I could go for some haggis right about now. And ice cream..." the six month pregnant woman grinned. "Yes, I agree with Harry, let's get some food."
Draco gagged at the mention of haggis, but James just rolled his eyes and turned into an affordable restaurant. An hour later they arrived at the Potter's house and Draco seemed gloomier then ever.
"Come on Draco," Harry insisted, when they had sat down on Harry's couch. "Tell me what's wrong!"
Draco groaned and buried his face in the cushions. Harry moved to sit on his legs, his hands gently massaging the blonds back.
"Father," Draco finally muttered, "he's getting suspicious..."
Harry frowned but never stopped rubbing. "That's sort of understandable. It's not like we *hide* our relationship."
"Quite the contrary," Draco sighed. "No, he's suspicious that I have a girlfriend - and that's why my grade went down, and that's why I joined the play, and became manager of the basketball team."
Just then a knock on the partially open door cut off Harry's reply. The two boys didn't bother moving as Lily walked into the room, her hands holding a steel tray. It had been happening every time the two were alone downstairs. Which, was all the time.
"Hello boys," she smiled, "I brought you some soda and popcorn." She set the tray down on the small table and smiled at them.
Harry frowned at the food she deposited, then looked up at his mother and frowned deeper. Lily fidgeted. Harry suddenly turned bright red as all the pieces clicked into place. He was completely mortified.
"Dad did it again, didn't he?" He whispered, still flushing madly.
Draco tensed under him. "Did it?" He echoed, not quite understanding.
Lily began shifting back and forth. "Yes, back in November."
Harry groaned, slumping over on top of Draco. "Tell me we were already sleeping," he whispered, "please - spare me the embarrassment."
Lily nodded. "Don't worry, we must have gotten home very late, he didn't even tell me, I figured it out though. What, with all his random checks and such."
Harry groaned, "not *again*!" He complained. "Why does he have that annoying habit anyway?"
Below him, Draco was starting to get the idea of what might have happened. "Tell me he didn't." The blond whispered into the cushions. "Just, humor me."
Harry and Lily exchanged glances and Lily quickly excused herself under the pretense of needing sleep.
"Harry?" Draco asked when she had left. "Explanation, please."
Harry sighed. "Alright, dad has this habit of finding me after I - um..." Again, Harry turned bright red. "Lets just say, that dad has seen more of my body then he wants to - and usually more of someone else's body as well."
"That's what I thought." Draco groaned.
"Anyway," Harry said, determined to chance the subject. "About your dad. What did you tell him?"
"I said he was delusional and that I do not have a girlfriend."
"Which is true."
"And that my grade went down because I had been focusing on other things. And, that I went out for Team Manager because he wanted me to join a sport in the first place. I didn't even mention that *I* wanted to join the play."
Harry giggled. "Even *I* don't understand why you wanted to join it. Lockhart was such an arse."
Draco sighed, not wanting to be reminded of that man at that moment. "I should probably go," he said instead. "Father will get even more angry at me if I'm not home at a decent time..."
Harry nodded and reluctantly got off the blonds knees. Moments later they were both standing and walking towards the gray jeep parked in the driveway.
"I miss you already," Draco whispered, fastening his seat-belt and leaning out his open window. He placed a kiss on Harry's lips.
"I know," Harry smiled. "I miss you too."
"Call me tomorrow and we can start shopping for suits for the Christmas dance. Only don't tell Hermione, she'll want to come with us..."
"Deal," Harry laughed. He kissed Draco again before stepping away from the car and watching as the blond drove away. The basketball star stood in the driveway, hugging himself for a few minutes before going back inside his house and going to bed.
Dreaming of Draco the whole night.
===
Shopping the next day was hell, for Draco anyway. For once, it seemed that the shopping roles were reversed. Everything that Harry tried on fit him perfectly - while nothing managed to work with Draco's figure.
"It's not that big of a deal," Harry said, coming out of the dressing room, modeling yet another perfectly fitting pant and jacket combination. "We'll find you something."
Draco frowned. But, miraculously enough, two hours later, they finally found a nice pair of pants and a slate gray vest combination that actually fit Draco properly. AND it matched Harry's black tux.
"Perfect fit!" The man, who had spent that afternoon following them around and running to get different sizes of clothing, cried.
"I agree," Harry said, "I mean, without that stupid cane and top hat that you had before, it really goes well with your figure."
Draco shot a withering glare at his boyfriend but said nothing. It wasn't even worth the energy to come up with something scathing to say in return. "I'll get them." Draco decided, moving back to his dressing room and changing back into his regular clothes.
The man grinned and went over to the cashier to ring up their purchase when they were ready.
===
The last day of school before winter break was a complete joke. In every class, Hogwarts teachers seemed to be taking a break from teaching, having them watch instead - holiday movies. Which is why it was logical for Harry to have "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch," stuck in his head. The fact that he was singing horribly off key, just managed to enhance the Christmas Spirit.
In their final actual class, Chemistry, Snape seemed to have the holiday bug, having them make ice-cream for their lab.
"It was good," Harry grinned, thinking of his extra chocolatey ice-cream. "But it was *really* cold! My fingers are still numb!"
Draco nodded, not really listening to his repeated statements. Instead, he leaned over and tapped Neville on the shoulder. "Hey," he said after he had gotten the boys attention. "Who are you taking to the dance tonight?"
Neville smiled, marking his spot in his book. "Ginny Weasley - Ron's little sister."
Draco grinned, "the sophomore? You've gone out with her before, haven't you?"
Neville nodded, flushing slightly.
"Hey," Harry asked, waving at the deaf boy. "Do you want to get dinner with us before the dance. We're supposed to go with some other people, but they can't go - so, want to come? We're going to some place downtown."
The boy nodded. "Sure, that'd be great."
His two friends grinned. "Come over to my house around five thirty," Harry instructed, scribbling his address on a scrap of paper. He passed the paper to the deaf boy and smiled.
A few minutes later the bell rang, releasing them all for three, school free, weeks.
A little later that day - at five seventeen, to be precise - the first round of Dance Photo's began. At thirty two past the hour, a second round of blinding lights began flashing. And a few moments later, Ron and Hermione showed up, earning Lily's camera to be, yet again, shoved into their faces.
When the group finally left the house, all six teens were grateful. They piled into Draco's jeep, the only car that would fit them all, and headed off to the restaurant where they had reservations.
They arrived and were quickly brought to their seats, where they ordered and began talking and laughing. Harry eventually pulled out his camera and started snapping pictures of his friends, though they were really mainly of Draco and himself.
"You all going to the Winter Formal?" Their server asked them, placing their meals on the table and straightening up. He smiled at them all, noting the apparently dateless boys sitting next to each other.
"Yes," Harry smiled, wrapping his arm around Draco's shoulders.
The mans eyes widened, "well, have fun - I guess..." he said, before quickly walking away.
The group exchanged glances, burst out laughing yet again, and dug into their meals. At one point, Draco stopped a passing waitress and said something in an undertone to her. She giggled, nodded and hurried away.
Just as they finished, a small group of servers burst from the back room, each of them holding a desert dish. They were all singing "Happy Birthday". And all six teens received free desert, as a "birthday gift."
"Draco!" Hermione finally exploded when they had left the restaurant. "You told her it was *all* of our birthdays! You nasty little liar!"
Draco grinned sheepishly and pulled Harry closer to him. "I had to get my Harry's chocolate ice cream for him. Don't bother complaining because you got desert too!"
Harry flushed. "Um... it *was* really good ice cream," he said hesitantly. Seeing Hermione's scowl, he quickly added. "Wow, now I feel like dancing - let's go, shall we?"
The made a clean get away. It probably helped that Ron and Neville had managed to keep Hermione from lunging at them. As it was, they arrived late to the dance anyway, and were quickly lost in the crowd. The two boys were at the center of the mob of students. Dancing and spinning, and generally having fun. At one point, the crowd parted to watch as the two boys danced perfectly in sync to a fast paced swing dance. Draco finished the dance by dipping his boyfriend and kissing him gently.
Cheers erupted before the two boys left the dance floor. They sat down at an empty table, where Draco immediately began fidgeting. "Harry," he said after a long mental debate. "I need to tell you something - and it's really important."
Harry caught the seriousness in his voice and stilled, turning all his attention of his boyfriend. "Yes?" he asked, doing a poor job of hiding his nervousness that Draco might be breaking up with him.
"I-" Draco faltered, gulped and tried again. "I-I..."
"You," Harry prompted, "you what?"
Draco closed his eyes and exhaled. "I love you." He whispered finally.
Harry's clear green eyes widened. "You do?" He squeaked, "really?" A warm fuzzy feeling began spreading through his body - but it was quickly followed by doubt. "I - I want to say it back to you - but I, I thought that I loved Dean, but he and I - I'm sorry, Draco. I'm just not sure yet."
"I can wait," Draco whispered, sighing slightly. "For you, I would do anything."
Harry grinned, his playfulness returning. "So, say it again... and then let's dance some more."
Draco smiled and leaned in to kiss Harry, whispering the perfect words into the black haired boys ears. He was then pulled to his feet by an ecstatically happy Harry, and dragged back onto the dance floor.
"Let's bogie!" Harry shouted.
And after a few strange looks, they did.
===
That night, Harry had a dream about something he thought he had overcome, something he thought he had completely forgotten. That he wished he had forgotten.
=FLASHBACK=
"Beau, why do you keep looking at me like that?" A thirteen-year-old Harry Potter glared at the dark haired fourteen-year-old in front of him. He knew people might treat him different ever since he had come out about being gay, but the older boy had been staring at him for nearly a week.
Beauregard Griffith smiled sweetly and leaned casually against the door frame of the locker room. "Why? Does it make you uneasy, petite un?"
Harry involuntarily took a step back, his back meeting the row of lockers that stood behind him. "Um - I mean, sometimes it does..."
Beau pushed himself away from the door and began walking slowly, taking perfectly even, calculated steps towards the smaller boy in front of him. "Why does it make you nervous, petite un?"
Harry gulped, the flimsy metal of the lockers pressing into his back. "Because - um, I don't know. It just does!"
"But there must be a reason," Beau said, sounding logical. "Maybe it's because you love me? Or you think that I love you."
Harry gulped in reply. "Do you?" He whispered.
Beau smirked, a strange look in his dark eyes. "Yes." He said simply, before he bent down and stole Harry Potter's first kiss.
===
A week later, Harry was starting to feel doubtful. "Beau," he asked, "why do you love me?"
Beau just laughed and shook his head, as though Harry was being deliberately dense.
"Really," Harry insisted, stopping the older boy. "Tell me."
Beau sighed, "Because you're cute and nice. And you're-" He seemed to catch himself before he continued talking.
"I'm what?" Harry asked, beginning to get angry. "What am I?"
"Come on, petite un, we're going to be late to class."
"No!" Harry snarled, "tell me."
"You're famous." Beau said shortly. "Alright? But that's only a plus. I like the other stuff about you."
Harry nearly growled. "Get out of my life." He snarled. "Leave me alone."
Beauragaurd sneered at him and made his way down the hall, while Harry turned and fled. He rushed into the office, tears already streaming down his cheeks.
"Can I call my mum?" He asked the woman sitting behind the desk, "I don't - I don't feel so good."
She nodded, her face etched with worry, and quickly passed the phone over to him. Harry dialed, his fingers shaking madly. "Mum?" He asked when she picked up. "Can you come and pick me up? I don't feel very well."
Lily was immediately concerned. "Of course, baby." She said, "I'll be there as soon as I can."
"Thanks, mum," Harry whispered. He dropped he phone and sat there, crying in the office until she came and brought him home.
=END FLASHBACK=
When Harry snapped awake, it was three thirty in the morning, but he no longer felt like sleeping. He was angry, that Beau could still hurt him, even now. He was angry that even after all he had been though - with Dean, and now Draco, that it was still Beau that had hurt him the most.
So, feeling completely enraged, Harry got out of bed and got dressed, putting on his warmest sweats, before grabbing his basketball and heading outside into the cold winter air.
Playing basketball for all his was worth, and trying to push his horrible memories to the back of his mind.
===
On Christmas Eve, Draco threw a party to rival all others. He and Harry spent the whole day decorating - and celebrating their six month anniversary.
Granted, they spent more time celebrating - but by the time the first guests started to arrive, they were both ready to party.
The first things guests did when they arrived was to place a "Secret Santa" gift under the tree, adding to the already growing pile. Harry and Draco could be found in random corners, one of them - usually Harry - pinning the other against the wall and kissing in a frenzy.
"Draco!" Ron shouted over the glare of the music, hours later. "This party is great!"
Draco grinned at the red head. "Thanks, Ron. Could you do me a favor and tell the DJ to lower the music a bit? We're about ready for the Secret Santa's."
Ron nodded and quickly disappeared.
"What did Ron want?" Harry asked, walking up to his boyfriend and passing over a cup of punch.
"Nothing much. Ready for Secret Santa's?"
Harry nodded and the music went down. People began to get the hint and began congregating over to the huge Christmas tree that was opposite of the door. The whole group sat down with the exception of Draco- who was to be passing out gifts.
And with a bow to Ginny Weasley, and the passing of a small red and gold box, the long, silly tradition began. The last gift to be passed out, was coincidently, Draco's. After all the gifts had been distributed, Harry stood up and reached into his pocket, pulling out a very small, green and gold box. He silently passed it down to Draco - who trembled a bit when he slowly began to untie the tiny ribbon.
Inside the box was a simple silver ring, and a thin necklace to hang it on.
Draco stared at the gift before throwing himself at Harry, kissing him wildly, his lips silently whispering "I love you" as much as possible.
"DRACO XAVIER MALFOY!"
The two boys froze, Draco ripping himself away from Harry- to stare straight into his father's angry, impenetrable, and steely gray eyes.
===
"...And further more," Lucius shouted, pacing around his son, anger radiating with every step. "I am extremely disappointed in you! You know the rules, and me coming home to my family and seeing my son-" he cut off, whirling around. "You're going to forget about him, and then you're going to start going to an Anti-Homosexual class- NO SON OF MINE WILL BE GAY! And come the end of the semester, you will be attending Durmstang Prep like I had wanted you to originally!"
Draco suppressed a tremble, not allowing any emotions to slip past the mask he had painfully erected. It had very nearly shattered when a stinging slap had been delivered to his cheek earlier in the lecture.
"You will be grounded until this- this *affair* with Potter has ended. Do I make myself clear?!"
Draco looked up. "Yes, father," he said dully.
"Go call him now." Lucius snarled. "And tell him it's over." Without another word, he turned and left his son standing in an empty hallway.
Fire ignited in Draco's frozen eyes when he had disappeared. "No!" He hissed. "I don't care if you do every thing in your power to break us up. It won't work, I'm *not* going to let him go. You can send me to another school, some stupid classes. But I won't change- and you can't make me!" He finished his rant and turned to walk in the opposite direction towards his bedroom.
He entered and slammed his door, the frame shuttered on impact, seeming to cower away from the enraged teen.
Before he could collapse on his bed, the phone rang twice before stopping for a moment. Then it rang three times. "It's Harry," the rings informed him. "Are you okay?"
Draco sighed and picked up his cordless, calling Harry back. He let the phone shrill one and a half times before ending the connection. "No." Draco answered back.
Harry immediately called back. Two and a half rings, ending. Then again. "What happened? Your dad?"
One ring returned said a very simple: "yes."
When Harry called back, Draco answered the phone. "He wants me to dump you." Draco whispered, hearing Harry's voice catch. "He's going to send me to Durmstang, and some stupid "anti-gay" classes..."
"Do what you must, Draco." Harry whispered, his voice cracking. "I'll understand."
"So you- you *want* me to dump you?" Draco asked.
"NO!" Harry cried, aghast. "But if it's the only way for your father to leave you alone, then do it."
"No!" Draco hissed. "I'm not leaving you! I love you, Harry. I don't care what he says. I'll be eighteen soon, I just got a job that pays pretty good. I can get some good scholarships to schools..." he cut off. "I'm not leaving you." He repeated stubbornly. "End of discussion."
He could almost hear Harry's smile. "Alright, Draco." Harry said, his voice still rather choked. "I won't leave you either."
They ended the discussion there.
===
For Christmas, Harry received two cell phones from his parents. One for Draco, the other for him. They were nearly identical, both small and lightweight. The only real difference was the colors.
"It was a two for one deal," James explained to his son, as the boy stared at the phones. "They have two-fifty weekday minutes, and unlimited weekends. We'd pay for the first year, and they you two would pay."
Harry smiled at his father. "Thanks, dad." He said, placing the phone down next to his other gifts. "I'll bring it over to him later."
"I think it's a great idea for us to be able to contact you at any given moment," Lily declared, walking into the room a moment later, holding a plate of steaming food. "And it'll be nice to know you and Draco are safe."
Harry nodded and turned to look out the window. He missed his boyfriend...
===
The end of Winter Break came to an end, Harry and Draco reunited at school. They had to pretend that they had broken up over the holiday, yet they sill managed to disappear into bathrooms together for disturbingly long amounts of time. However, there was only one problem...
"Harry Potter's Secret Heartache." Dudley Dursley read from a popular magazine "Witch Weekly." He looked up and smirked at Harry before continuing. "A boy like no other, perhaps - yet a boy suffering all the usual pangs of adolescence, write's Rita Skeeter-"
...Rita Skeeter had finally gotten her revenge for Harry kicking her out of his backyard.
Harry snatched the magazine from Dudley, and looking amazingly calm, began tearing it into thousands of little pieces. "You know what, Dursley," he said, still calm. "I honestly believe that people learn something new everyday. For example - I didn't know you could read. And, I didn't know you were stupid enough to try and get a rise out of me by reading a magazine in an empty hallway... two hours after school has ended."
Dudley went a bit pink, and glared at the other boy.
Harry smirked and walked away down the hallway, swinging his backpack over his shoulder in a relaxed, practiced move.
"I'm sorry about your boyfriend!" Dudley shouted sarcastically at Harry's retreating back. "I hear it was him who dumped you... what's the matter? Too gay for him?"
Harry just rolled his eyes and at that moment, Draco stepped out from an intersecting hallway. "Hey," he said softly to Harry, soft enough so that Dudley couldn't hear him. "You forgot this." He pressed a folded bit of paper into Harry's hand and quickly left, sneering at Dudley as he passed.
Harry stuffed the paper in his pocket before continuing down the hall and out of the school. Only in the safety of his bedroom did he dare to read it.
/Dear Harry,
What a corny way to start off a letter. Hey! Stop laughing at me, I want this letter to be perfect. Anyway, you're probably lying on your bed, still in your basketball clothes and much in need of a shower. If you are, that means that you've just gotten home - and that I'm stuck in another one of those "classes" where we spend an hour reciting "I am not gay. The gayness does not hold power over me." Yes, I know it's stupid, but that's really what goes on.
I hate to tell you this, but my father is actually serious about sending me to Durmstang at the semester change. I really don't want to go. He's even threatened to take away my car and allowance if I don't. I know what you're probably thinking right now. "Draco, you have a job, and I'm perfectly happy driving you around." I know you are, that's part of the reason why I love you so much.
There are other reason's, of course, but your selflessness is one of the main ones. The other's would be your sense of humor, your determination, concentration and, well, you're sexy as hell. Can you blame a guy for falling for you?
And stop blushing!
I talked to Professor Snape today. He's my councilor and I figured it would be the smartest thing to do. He said that if there was an extremely believable reason as to *why* I should stay at Hogwarts, then I have a good chance at staying. I told him that all my friends were there, and that the basketball team needed me. I told him the only reason why my father wants my to switch schools in the first place is to get me away from you. At that point, he basically said I was screwed, and I came back with a rather nasty comeback myself.
It was something along the lines of getting that stick out of his arse and wisening up. I think McGonagall heard me, but she didn't say anything about it. Dumbledore definitely heard me, because he gave me this really pitying glance... it was around then that I left to head back to class.
I should be ending off now, because the bell just rang and I really should get to class before McGonagall thinks I need extra help or something... Alright, I'm back, it's history now, and you're sitting there looking so delicious...
Oh stop blushing, Harry! I know you are! By the way, did you see that article in Witch Weekly about us? I think I saw Dursley reading it earlier, which surprised me. I didn't know he could read.
Anyway, I really should pay attention now. Call me at two thirty AM on my cell. I'll be waiting for it.
Love you always, Draco./
Harry put down the letter and smiled widely, his cheeks still pink.
===
At exactly two thirty in the morning, Harry called Draco. It rang, and rang... and rang. Harry frowned, there was definitely something wrong. Finally, Draco picked up. "Harry?" He asked, sounding a bit sluggish. "Can you come and pick me up? I'm at the hospital."
Harry's heart stopped. "What?" He croaked.
"Don't worry, I'm fine. Father and I got into an accident on the way home from class. He's got a mild concussion and they just stabilized him, but I've got no way to get home."
Harry sighed in relief. "Alright, which hospital?"
"St. Mungo's." Draco said after a pause, his voice still slow. "It's on the corner of Dervish and Banges, just a bit north of Diagon and Knocktern alley."
"Alright," he said. "I'll be there as fast as I can."
They hung up and Harry quickly got dressed. "Dad," Harry whispered, shaking his father awake.
James mumbled something unintelligible - though it sounded a lot like "where are my speedos?"
"Dad!" Harry hissed, slightly louder. "I'm going to pick up Draco."
"Where-"
"He's at the hospital. He and his dad got into an accident this afternoon."
James' eyes went wide. "Do you want me to-"
"No," Harry said, "we'll be fine."
James nodded and rolled over and went back to sleep. Harry however, rolled his eyes and left the room, silently descending the steps and leaving the warm house for the replacement of cold January air. He jumped into his already running car and quickly drove towards the hospital.
He arrived and quickly parked before running into the building. "I'm looking for a Mr. Draco Malfoy," Harry told the man at the information center. "Could you tell me what room he's in please?"
The man typed something into his computer. "Why do you want to know?" He asked when the file had been pulled up.
"He asked me to pick him up. He said, um, *father* had a mild concussion so he had no ride home." Harry exagerated the "father" part, making it sound like he and Draco were brothers.
The man's eyes softened with pity. "Room 214b." He said. "Take the elevator to the second floor, it should be on the left side of the hallway." He handed Harry a pink slip of paper. "Give this to the nurse in the Nurse's Center up there, it will allow you two boys to leave."
Harry thanked the man and raced towards the elevators. The hospital was, for the most part, empty. Only a few nurses, security guards and a doctor or two could be seen. Harry burst into room 214b and hurried as quietly as he could to the small hospital bed in the corner.
"Oh, Draco," he whispered, his eyes welling up with tears. Scratches and cuts raked across the blond's skin, especially his face. His right arm was wrapped tightly in a cast, the other hooked to an IV. Draco's gray eyes opened slightly.
"Hi, you." He whispered, obviously more drugged up by with something to numb the pain then he had been before.
Harry managed a weak smile and sat down on the side of the bed. "Hi yourself." He whispered back. "Draco, you're in no state to go home."
As well as he could, Draco rolled his eyes. "Would you just stay here with me?" He asked. "I hate this place. It's too - I don't know, quiet? Please, Harry? I want you to be here with me."
Harry nodded. "You know I'll stay with you." He smiled, "I told you that a long time ago. So, what happened?"
Draco frowned. "I'm not really sure. We were stopped at a light, and then it turned green, so Father started into the intersection, then, out of nowhere, this *really* *ugly* car hits us. Father got the most of it, I was basically hit with flying glass. My arm kind of got stuck in between the seat and him, it broke somewhere on the lower bone... can't think of the name."
"Where is your father?" Harry asked, standing up and looking around.
"Intensive care, is what they told me." Draco replied. "On the other end of the hospital."
Harry nodded again. "I'm going to get some blankets and scrubs to sleep in." He told Draco. "I'll be right back."
By the time Harry got back, his arms full of blankets, pillows and spare surgery pants, Draco had already fallen into a deep, drug induced, sleep. Harry smiled and quickly arranged a bed on the window seat. With a last thought before he got into bed, he called his house and left a message for his parents as to where he was and what the situation was, as an after thought, he asked them to call the school in the morning and excuse him for the day. Then, the room was silent.
=================================
AN Review and I'll update.
.
=================================
Chapter 5
Throughout the basketball season, the Hogwarts Pythons were undefeated. Winning game after game, and celebrating after the more victorious ones. There were a few teams that were a bit more challenging, such as Durmstang Prep, another rich private school. However, they seemed a little more vain and rather smug, loosing concentration in the last minute of the game. Therefore, the Pythons just barely managed to squeak through with the win.
All in all, since the very first game, to the now nearly down with the season games, which *hopefully* would make them eligible for the Britain Junior Basketball Tournament, the Pythons were very happy with their team, and made a point of practicing even harder then before, just to prove that they wanted to win.
Other things made Harry happy as well. Seamus, much to his delight, (and Draco's relief) had stopped coming onto Harry, and began spending more time just being a good friend. Draco, after his night with Harry, seemed slightly more touchy-feely, not that Harry *minded*. To tell the truth, he reveled in it.
Some people, however, seemed a bit bothered by their frequent public displays of affection.
"Mr. Malfoy! Mr. Potter!" An angry chemistry teacher shouted, breaking the boys apart. "If you two would stop displaying your affections to the world-" He left off there, still glaring heatedly.
"Sorry, Professor Snape," Harry and Draco chorused.
Snape glared at them before continuing down the hallway towards the faculty lounge.
"Slimy git." Harry muttered, watching him go.
Draco elbowed him playfully. "Don't insult him!" He protested, laughing. "Not until we're off campus, anyway."
"Speaking of..." Harry mused, "I'm hungry, let's go get lunch before our chance is over." He grabbed the blonds hand and started tugging him down the hall. They passed Snape, grinning innocently, and nearly sprinted towards the parking lots.
"Christmas soon," Harry smiled, after they had gotten into Draco's car and playing with said blonds fingers. "And the Winter Formal."
Draco nodded and stuck the keys in the ignition.
Harry sighed and began digging through one of his extremely baggy pockets. Finally, he pulled out a brightly colored paper and passed it over. "Would you like to go to the dance with me, Draco, or shall I find someone else to share this ticket with?"
Draco smiled and took the ticket. "I thought you'd never ask."
The two boys spend the remainder of lunch making out in the car.
===
Art class, the next day, was odd - to say the least. Mr. Black, their slightly psychotic teacher, had decided to start a new project.
"Written art!" The man shouted, causing them all to jump in surprise. "Art of words - used to fuel the imagination. I want you all to write a poem today during class, and then read it to your partner. Tonight, draw the poem you heard and give it to that person. Next Monday night, we'll present the poems and drawings to the class and parents."
He passed out a requirement sheet, instructing them all to read it before they began.
Harry smiled and picked up his pencil, scribbling madly. Draco, took a moment to collect his thoughts before writing out with equal speed.
"Alright," Black called out after twenty minutes. "You should have finished writing your poems, you may now read them aloud to your partners.
Harry shuffled a little closer to Draco, resting his head on the blonds shoulder. He cleared his throat and began reading the poem he had just finished writing.
"I wish I could taste your tempting lips
In a sweet kiss against mine,
Returning my emotions with your's identical"
He paused, not daring to look at Draco before taking a deep breath and continuing. On and on the poem went, always about Draco, and everything he meant to Harry. Harry finished reading and slowly lowered his piece of notebook paper back to the desk, waiting for Draco's approval. Draco smiled and gave his hand a quick squeeze and placing a light kiss on his cheek before reading aloud his own poem.
"Like a shiver down my back,
You appeared in my life,
Passing to me the thrill of emotions:
Because I hadn't felt them.
Like a sweet faced angel,
You graced me with heavens light
And made sure I understood:
Because I didn't."
He paused and smiled, plowing on with his reading, his voice sounding slightly husky with repressed emotions. His poem was about Harry - and Harry's patience and love and beauty. The bell rang just as Draco finished reading, but neither boy moved. Harry seemed to have frozen in his seat, his cheeks flushed. Suddenly, in a burst of energy, he flung himself at the blond.
"Thank you," he whispered before their mouths met. "Thank you, thank you!" He continued kissing, touching Draco's face gently.
Draco chuckled lowly. "Sprout always said I had a way with words..."
Harry dropped his face to Draco's shoulder. "I'm glad," he whispered, kissing the flesh he found there.
Mr. Black suddenly re-entered the room. "Boys," he said, mock sternly, "I'll have to ask you to snuggle in a different classroom, I would suggest Professor Snape's, but I think he would try to kill me by some chemical explosion, - so maybe a bathroom. I have projects to grade here."
Harry reluctantly stepped away form his boyfriend. "Yes sir," he said, eyes still bright with happiness.
They left the art building to spend their lunch in a more secluded spot.
===
The Monday of the Written Art fair, Harry was unusually excited. It ever progressed to the point where he wished basketball practice would just *end* already! Draco was quick to notice, though he didn't say anything.
When the Potter's finally did arrive at school for the fair, Harry found that not only did the art class come, a good portion of the school had also come. Though, it could just be coincidence. The whole Malfoy family was also there, giving Harry the chance to meet Mrs. Malfoy.
But before Harry's parents could comment to the Malfoy's about their sons seemingly perfect relationship, the art teacher hailed them.
"Harry!" Mr. Black called, hurrying over. "I just wanted to mention that your depiction of Draco's poem was excellent. As was your's, Draco," he then added, glancing over at the blond. "I was wondering if you would be willing to allow me to enter that piece in a small competition... nothing big, the prize money is about five hundred pounds for first place, two fifty for second, I believe."
Harry's gapped. "You really think it could win something?"
Black nodded. "Most definitely."
Their conversation was cut off, however, by James.
"Padfoot?" He asked, "Sirius Black of Privet Primary School?"
Mr. Black looked somewhat surprised. "Yes, I- JAMES?" He looked absolutely flabbergasted. "James Potter? It's been forever!"
James laughed and clapped the other man on the back while Harry and Draco exchanged confused glances and the elder Malfoy's began walking away.
"Harry, Sirius and I used to be best friends! We had known each other since we were in diapers!" James said enthusiastically to his son.
"I've got another surprise for you," Sirius said mysteriously. "HEY! MOONY, COME OVER HERE!"
Remus Lupin approached. "Yes?" He asked, before: "Prongs?!"
"Prongs?" Harry deadpanned.
"We had made up nicknames for each other," James explained, "depending on our favorite animal..." The three men began talking excitedly again, completely ignoring Harry, Draco and Lily.
"Come on, Mum," Harry said finally. "Let's go check out some art, while those three catch up."
Lily nodded and only barely managed to escape without being smacked by a wildly gesturing hand.
===
That Friday was the last basketball game before the start of the Britain Junior Tournament. And Lucius Malfoy was sitting in the stands when the Hogwarts team arrived.
"I thought he was traveling to America this month," Harry hissed, walking up to Draco in the locker room.
"That's what I thought!" Draco snapped back.
Harry flinched back, a hurt expression on his face.
Draco's icy expression melted. "I'm sorry, Harry," he sighed. "It's just - you know what he's like. He's probably only here to judge me, trying to make me nervous and screw up or something."
Harry nodded and leaned forward to embrace his boyfriend. "Yeah, I know." He stepped back and pulled out his infamous green marker, tracing another lightning bolt on his arm. He stood up and placed a quick kiss on Draco's lips.
The team then headed out onto the court to warm up a bit and listen to Coach Hooch's usual pre-game speech.
Draco was obviously nervous throughout the game. His father was sitting a little behind him and he could feel Lucius' cold, calculating gave on his neck as he called out encouragement to the team and talked to the players when they sat down. Lucius, who seemed able to read his mind at time, continued to watch, making poor Draco even more nervous.
The game finally ended, the Pythons winning, though only just. Harry came tearing off the court, ready to jump into Draco's arms. He paused for a moment, his green eyes looking into Draco's before the blond shook his head quickly. So, instead of embracing his boyfriend, Harry ran into the stands and towards his parents.
"We won!" He cried, wrapping his arms around his mothers bulging stomach.
"Congratulations sweetie," Lily cried, surprised at her sons bee-line towards her but happy all the same. "I'm so proud of you! You played wonderful!"
Harry beamed and snuck a quick glance at his boyfriend. Mr. Malfoy was talking to him, and Draco looked angry, ice slamming across his features. Then, Draco said something curt and turned on his heal and stalked towards the locker rooms where the rest of the team was busy celebrating. Lucius frowned after him and left the gym.
Harry rushed to catch up with Draco. Together, they grabbed their things and climbed into the Potter's ugly car.
"What's wrong?" Harry whispered, taking Draco's fine boned hand and bringing it to his mouth.
Draco cracked a smile. "I'll tell you later, okay?"
Harry nodded and promptly turned to his parents. "Fooooood!" He whined, "we need *fooood*!"
James sighed.
"You know," Lily said, "that's a good idea. I think I could go for some haggis right about now. And ice cream..." the six month pregnant woman grinned. "Yes, I agree with Harry, let's get some food."
Draco gagged at the mention of haggis, but James just rolled his eyes and turned into an affordable restaurant. An hour later they arrived at the Potter's house and Draco seemed gloomier then ever.
"Come on Draco," Harry insisted, when they had sat down on Harry's couch. "Tell me what's wrong!"
Draco groaned and buried his face in the cushions. Harry moved to sit on his legs, his hands gently massaging the blonds back.
"Father," Draco finally muttered, "he's getting suspicious..."
Harry frowned but never stopped rubbing. "That's sort of understandable. It's not like we *hide* our relationship."
"Quite the contrary," Draco sighed. "No, he's suspicious that I have a girlfriend - and that's why my grade went down, and that's why I joined the play, and became manager of the basketball team."
Just then a knock on the partially open door cut off Harry's reply. The two boys didn't bother moving as Lily walked into the room, her hands holding a steel tray. It had been happening every time the two were alone downstairs. Which, was all the time.
"Hello boys," she smiled, "I brought you some soda and popcorn." She set the tray down on the small table and smiled at them.
Harry frowned at the food she deposited, then looked up at his mother and frowned deeper. Lily fidgeted. Harry suddenly turned bright red as all the pieces clicked into place. He was completely mortified.
"Dad did it again, didn't he?" He whispered, still flushing madly.
Draco tensed under him. "Did it?" He echoed, not quite understanding.
Lily began shifting back and forth. "Yes, back in November."
Harry groaned, slumping over on top of Draco. "Tell me we were already sleeping," he whispered, "please - spare me the embarrassment."
Lily nodded. "Don't worry, we must have gotten home very late, he didn't even tell me, I figured it out though. What, with all his random checks and such."
Harry groaned, "not *again*!" He complained. "Why does he have that annoying habit anyway?"
Below him, Draco was starting to get the idea of what might have happened. "Tell me he didn't." The blond whispered into the cushions. "Just, humor me."
Harry and Lily exchanged glances and Lily quickly excused herself under the pretense of needing sleep.
"Harry?" Draco asked when she had left. "Explanation, please."
Harry sighed. "Alright, dad has this habit of finding me after I - um..." Again, Harry turned bright red. "Lets just say, that dad has seen more of my body then he wants to - and usually more of someone else's body as well."
"That's what I thought." Draco groaned.
"Anyway," Harry said, determined to chance the subject. "About your dad. What did you tell him?"
"I said he was delusional and that I do not have a girlfriend."
"Which is true."
"And that my grade went down because I had been focusing on other things. And, that I went out for Team Manager because he wanted me to join a sport in the first place. I didn't even mention that *I* wanted to join the play."
Harry giggled. "Even *I* don't understand why you wanted to join it. Lockhart was such an arse."
Draco sighed, not wanting to be reminded of that man at that moment. "I should probably go," he said instead. "Father will get even more angry at me if I'm not home at a decent time..."
Harry nodded and reluctantly got off the blonds knees. Moments later they were both standing and walking towards the gray jeep parked in the driveway.
"I miss you already," Draco whispered, fastening his seat-belt and leaning out his open window. He placed a kiss on Harry's lips.
"I know," Harry smiled. "I miss you too."
"Call me tomorrow and we can start shopping for suits for the Christmas dance. Only don't tell Hermione, she'll want to come with us..."
"Deal," Harry laughed. He kissed Draco again before stepping away from the car and watching as the blond drove away. The basketball star stood in the driveway, hugging himself for a few minutes before going back inside his house and going to bed.
Dreaming of Draco the whole night.
===
Shopping the next day was hell, for Draco anyway. For once, it seemed that the shopping roles were reversed. Everything that Harry tried on fit him perfectly - while nothing managed to work with Draco's figure.
"It's not that big of a deal," Harry said, coming out of the dressing room, modeling yet another perfectly fitting pant and jacket combination. "We'll find you something."
Draco frowned. But, miraculously enough, two hours later, they finally found a nice pair of pants and a slate gray vest combination that actually fit Draco properly. AND it matched Harry's black tux.
"Perfect fit!" The man, who had spent that afternoon following them around and running to get different sizes of clothing, cried.
"I agree," Harry said, "I mean, without that stupid cane and top hat that you had before, it really goes well with your figure."
Draco shot a withering glare at his boyfriend but said nothing. It wasn't even worth the energy to come up with something scathing to say in return. "I'll get them." Draco decided, moving back to his dressing room and changing back into his regular clothes.
The man grinned and went over to the cashier to ring up their purchase when they were ready.
===
The last day of school before winter break was a complete joke. In every class, Hogwarts teachers seemed to be taking a break from teaching, having them watch instead - holiday movies. Which is why it was logical for Harry to have "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch," stuck in his head. The fact that he was singing horribly off key, just managed to enhance the Christmas Spirit.
In their final actual class, Chemistry, Snape seemed to have the holiday bug, having them make ice-cream for their lab.
"It was good," Harry grinned, thinking of his extra chocolatey ice-cream. "But it was *really* cold! My fingers are still numb!"
Draco nodded, not really listening to his repeated statements. Instead, he leaned over and tapped Neville on the shoulder. "Hey," he said after he had gotten the boys attention. "Who are you taking to the dance tonight?"
Neville smiled, marking his spot in his book. "Ginny Weasley - Ron's little sister."
Draco grinned, "the sophomore? You've gone out with her before, haven't you?"
Neville nodded, flushing slightly.
"Hey," Harry asked, waving at the deaf boy. "Do you want to get dinner with us before the dance. We're supposed to go with some other people, but they can't go - so, want to come? We're going to some place downtown."
The boy nodded. "Sure, that'd be great."
His two friends grinned. "Come over to my house around five thirty," Harry instructed, scribbling his address on a scrap of paper. He passed the paper to the deaf boy and smiled.
A few minutes later the bell rang, releasing them all for three, school free, weeks.
A little later that day - at five seventeen, to be precise - the first round of Dance Photo's began. At thirty two past the hour, a second round of blinding lights began flashing. And a few moments later, Ron and Hermione showed up, earning Lily's camera to be, yet again, shoved into their faces.
When the group finally left the house, all six teens were grateful. They piled into Draco's jeep, the only car that would fit them all, and headed off to the restaurant where they had reservations.
They arrived and were quickly brought to their seats, where they ordered and began talking and laughing. Harry eventually pulled out his camera and started snapping pictures of his friends, though they were really mainly of Draco and himself.
"You all going to the Winter Formal?" Their server asked them, placing their meals on the table and straightening up. He smiled at them all, noting the apparently dateless boys sitting next to each other.
"Yes," Harry smiled, wrapping his arm around Draco's shoulders.
The mans eyes widened, "well, have fun - I guess..." he said, before quickly walking away.
The group exchanged glances, burst out laughing yet again, and dug into their meals. At one point, Draco stopped a passing waitress and said something in an undertone to her. She giggled, nodded and hurried away.
Just as they finished, a small group of servers burst from the back room, each of them holding a desert dish. They were all singing "Happy Birthday". And all six teens received free desert, as a "birthday gift."
"Draco!" Hermione finally exploded when they had left the restaurant. "You told her it was *all* of our birthdays! You nasty little liar!"
Draco grinned sheepishly and pulled Harry closer to him. "I had to get my Harry's chocolate ice cream for him. Don't bother complaining because you got desert too!"
Harry flushed. "Um... it *was* really good ice cream," he said hesitantly. Seeing Hermione's scowl, he quickly added. "Wow, now I feel like dancing - let's go, shall we?"
The made a clean get away. It probably helped that Ron and Neville had managed to keep Hermione from lunging at them. As it was, they arrived late to the dance anyway, and were quickly lost in the crowd. The two boys were at the center of the mob of students. Dancing and spinning, and generally having fun. At one point, the crowd parted to watch as the two boys danced perfectly in sync to a fast paced swing dance. Draco finished the dance by dipping his boyfriend and kissing him gently.
Cheers erupted before the two boys left the dance floor. They sat down at an empty table, where Draco immediately began fidgeting. "Harry," he said after a long mental debate. "I need to tell you something - and it's really important."
Harry caught the seriousness in his voice and stilled, turning all his attention of his boyfriend. "Yes?" he asked, doing a poor job of hiding his nervousness that Draco might be breaking up with him.
"I-" Draco faltered, gulped and tried again. "I-I..."
"You," Harry prompted, "you what?"
Draco closed his eyes and exhaled. "I love you." He whispered finally.
Harry's clear green eyes widened. "You do?" He squeaked, "really?" A warm fuzzy feeling began spreading through his body - but it was quickly followed by doubt. "I - I want to say it back to you - but I, I thought that I loved Dean, but he and I - I'm sorry, Draco. I'm just not sure yet."
"I can wait," Draco whispered, sighing slightly. "For you, I would do anything."
Harry grinned, his playfulness returning. "So, say it again... and then let's dance some more."
Draco smiled and leaned in to kiss Harry, whispering the perfect words into the black haired boys ears. He was then pulled to his feet by an ecstatically happy Harry, and dragged back onto the dance floor.
"Let's bogie!" Harry shouted.
And after a few strange looks, they did.
===
That night, Harry had a dream about something he thought he had overcome, something he thought he had completely forgotten. That he wished he had forgotten.
=FLASHBACK=
"Beau, why do you keep looking at me like that?" A thirteen-year-old Harry Potter glared at the dark haired fourteen-year-old in front of him. He knew people might treat him different ever since he had come out about being gay, but the older boy had been staring at him for nearly a week.
Beauregard Griffith smiled sweetly and leaned casually against the door frame of the locker room. "Why? Does it make you uneasy, petite un?"
Harry involuntarily took a step back, his back meeting the row of lockers that stood behind him. "Um - I mean, sometimes it does..."
Beau pushed himself away from the door and began walking slowly, taking perfectly even, calculated steps towards the smaller boy in front of him. "Why does it make you nervous, petite un?"
Harry gulped, the flimsy metal of the lockers pressing into his back. "Because - um, I don't know. It just does!"
"But there must be a reason," Beau said, sounding logical. "Maybe it's because you love me? Or you think that I love you."
Harry gulped in reply. "Do you?" He whispered.
Beau smirked, a strange look in his dark eyes. "Yes." He said simply, before he bent down and stole Harry Potter's first kiss.
===
A week later, Harry was starting to feel doubtful. "Beau," he asked, "why do you love me?"
Beau just laughed and shook his head, as though Harry was being deliberately dense.
"Really," Harry insisted, stopping the older boy. "Tell me."
Beau sighed, "Because you're cute and nice. And you're-" He seemed to catch himself before he continued talking.
"I'm what?" Harry asked, beginning to get angry. "What am I?"
"Come on, petite un, we're going to be late to class."
"No!" Harry snarled, "tell me."
"You're famous." Beau said shortly. "Alright? But that's only a plus. I like the other stuff about you."
Harry nearly growled. "Get out of my life." He snarled. "Leave me alone."
Beauragaurd sneered at him and made his way down the hall, while Harry turned and fled. He rushed into the office, tears already streaming down his cheeks.
"Can I call my mum?" He asked the woman sitting behind the desk, "I don't - I don't feel so good."
She nodded, her face etched with worry, and quickly passed the phone over to him. Harry dialed, his fingers shaking madly. "Mum?" He asked when she picked up. "Can you come and pick me up? I don't feel very well."
Lily was immediately concerned. "Of course, baby." She said, "I'll be there as soon as I can."
"Thanks, mum," Harry whispered. He dropped he phone and sat there, crying in the office until she came and brought him home.
=END FLASHBACK=
When Harry snapped awake, it was three thirty in the morning, but he no longer felt like sleeping. He was angry, that Beau could still hurt him, even now. He was angry that even after all he had been though - with Dean, and now Draco, that it was still Beau that had hurt him the most.
So, feeling completely enraged, Harry got out of bed and got dressed, putting on his warmest sweats, before grabbing his basketball and heading outside into the cold winter air.
Playing basketball for all his was worth, and trying to push his horrible memories to the back of his mind.
===
On Christmas Eve, Draco threw a party to rival all others. He and Harry spent the whole day decorating - and celebrating their six month anniversary.
Granted, they spent more time celebrating - but by the time the first guests started to arrive, they were both ready to party.
The first things guests did when they arrived was to place a "Secret Santa" gift under the tree, adding to the already growing pile. Harry and Draco could be found in random corners, one of them - usually Harry - pinning the other against the wall and kissing in a frenzy.
"Draco!" Ron shouted over the glare of the music, hours later. "This party is great!"
Draco grinned at the red head. "Thanks, Ron. Could you do me a favor and tell the DJ to lower the music a bit? We're about ready for the Secret Santa's."
Ron nodded and quickly disappeared.
"What did Ron want?" Harry asked, walking up to his boyfriend and passing over a cup of punch.
"Nothing much. Ready for Secret Santa's?"
Harry nodded and the music went down. People began to get the hint and began congregating over to the huge Christmas tree that was opposite of the door. The whole group sat down with the exception of Draco- who was to be passing out gifts.
And with a bow to Ginny Weasley, and the passing of a small red and gold box, the long, silly tradition began. The last gift to be passed out, was coincidently, Draco's. After all the gifts had been distributed, Harry stood up and reached into his pocket, pulling out a very small, green and gold box. He silently passed it down to Draco - who trembled a bit when he slowly began to untie the tiny ribbon.
Inside the box was a simple silver ring, and a thin necklace to hang it on.
Draco stared at the gift before throwing himself at Harry, kissing him wildly, his lips silently whispering "I love you" as much as possible.
"DRACO XAVIER MALFOY!"
The two boys froze, Draco ripping himself away from Harry- to stare straight into his father's angry, impenetrable, and steely gray eyes.
===
"...And further more," Lucius shouted, pacing around his son, anger radiating with every step. "I am extremely disappointed in you! You know the rules, and me coming home to my family and seeing my son-" he cut off, whirling around. "You're going to forget about him, and then you're going to start going to an Anti-Homosexual class- NO SON OF MINE WILL BE GAY! And come the end of the semester, you will be attending Durmstang Prep like I had wanted you to originally!"
Draco suppressed a tremble, not allowing any emotions to slip past the mask he had painfully erected. It had very nearly shattered when a stinging slap had been delivered to his cheek earlier in the lecture.
"You will be grounded until this- this *affair* with Potter has ended. Do I make myself clear?!"
Draco looked up. "Yes, father," he said dully.
"Go call him now." Lucius snarled. "And tell him it's over." Without another word, he turned and left his son standing in an empty hallway.
Fire ignited in Draco's frozen eyes when he had disappeared. "No!" He hissed. "I don't care if you do every thing in your power to break us up. It won't work, I'm *not* going to let him go. You can send me to another school, some stupid classes. But I won't change- and you can't make me!" He finished his rant and turned to walk in the opposite direction towards his bedroom.
He entered and slammed his door, the frame shuttered on impact, seeming to cower away from the enraged teen.
Before he could collapse on his bed, the phone rang twice before stopping for a moment. Then it rang three times. "It's Harry," the rings informed him. "Are you okay?"
Draco sighed and picked up his cordless, calling Harry back. He let the phone shrill one and a half times before ending the connection. "No." Draco answered back.
Harry immediately called back. Two and a half rings, ending. Then again. "What happened? Your dad?"
One ring returned said a very simple: "yes."
When Harry called back, Draco answered the phone. "He wants me to dump you." Draco whispered, hearing Harry's voice catch. "He's going to send me to Durmstang, and some stupid "anti-gay" classes..."
"Do what you must, Draco." Harry whispered, his voice cracking. "I'll understand."
"So you- you *want* me to dump you?" Draco asked.
"NO!" Harry cried, aghast. "But if it's the only way for your father to leave you alone, then do it."
"No!" Draco hissed. "I'm not leaving you! I love you, Harry. I don't care what he says. I'll be eighteen soon, I just got a job that pays pretty good. I can get some good scholarships to schools..." he cut off. "I'm not leaving you." He repeated stubbornly. "End of discussion."
He could almost hear Harry's smile. "Alright, Draco." Harry said, his voice still rather choked. "I won't leave you either."
They ended the discussion there.
===
For Christmas, Harry received two cell phones from his parents. One for Draco, the other for him. They were nearly identical, both small and lightweight. The only real difference was the colors.
"It was a two for one deal," James explained to his son, as the boy stared at the phones. "They have two-fifty weekday minutes, and unlimited weekends. We'd pay for the first year, and they you two would pay."
Harry smiled at his father. "Thanks, dad." He said, placing the phone down next to his other gifts. "I'll bring it over to him later."
"I think it's a great idea for us to be able to contact you at any given moment," Lily declared, walking into the room a moment later, holding a plate of steaming food. "And it'll be nice to know you and Draco are safe."
Harry nodded and turned to look out the window. He missed his boyfriend...
===
The end of Winter Break came to an end, Harry and Draco reunited at school. They had to pretend that they had broken up over the holiday, yet they sill managed to disappear into bathrooms together for disturbingly long amounts of time. However, there was only one problem...
"Harry Potter's Secret Heartache." Dudley Dursley read from a popular magazine "Witch Weekly." He looked up and smirked at Harry before continuing. "A boy like no other, perhaps - yet a boy suffering all the usual pangs of adolescence, write's Rita Skeeter-"
...Rita Skeeter had finally gotten her revenge for Harry kicking her out of his backyard.
Harry snatched the magazine from Dudley, and looking amazingly calm, began tearing it into thousands of little pieces. "You know what, Dursley," he said, still calm. "I honestly believe that people learn something new everyday. For example - I didn't know you could read. And, I didn't know you were stupid enough to try and get a rise out of me by reading a magazine in an empty hallway... two hours after school has ended."
Dudley went a bit pink, and glared at the other boy.
Harry smirked and walked away down the hallway, swinging his backpack over his shoulder in a relaxed, practiced move.
"I'm sorry about your boyfriend!" Dudley shouted sarcastically at Harry's retreating back. "I hear it was him who dumped you... what's the matter? Too gay for him?"
Harry just rolled his eyes and at that moment, Draco stepped out from an intersecting hallway. "Hey," he said softly to Harry, soft enough so that Dudley couldn't hear him. "You forgot this." He pressed a folded bit of paper into Harry's hand and quickly left, sneering at Dudley as he passed.
Harry stuffed the paper in his pocket before continuing down the hall and out of the school. Only in the safety of his bedroom did he dare to read it.
/Dear Harry,
What a corny way to start off a letter. Hey! Stop laughing at me, I want this letter to be perfect. Anyway, you're probably lying on your bed, still in your basketball clothes and much in need of a shower. If you are, that means that you've just gotten home - and that I'm stuck in another one of those "classes" where we spend an hour reciting "I am not gay. The gayness does not hold power over me." Yes, I know it's stupid, but that's really what goes on.
I hate to tell you this, but my father is actually serious about sending me to Durmstang at the semester change. I really don't want to go. He's even threatened to take away my car and allowance if I don't. I know what you're probably thinking right now. "Draco, you have a job, and I'm perfectly happy driving you around." I know you are, that's part of the reason why I love you so much.
There are other reason's, of course, but your selflessness is one of the main ones. The other's would be your sense of humor, your determination, concentration and, well, you're sexy as hell. Can you blame a guy for falling for you?
And stop blushing!
I talked to Professor Snape today. He's my councilor and I figured it would be the smartest thing to do. He said that if there was an extremely believable reason as to *why* I should stay at Hogwarts, then I have a good chance at staying. I told him that all my friends were there, and that the basketball team needed me. I told him the only reason why my father wants my to switch schools in the first place is to get me away from you. At that point, he basically said I was screwed, and I came back with a rather nasty comeback myself.
It was something along the lines of getting that stick out of his arse and wisening up. I think McGonagall heard me, but she didn't say anything about it. Dumbledore definitely heard me, because he gave me this really pitying glance... it was around then that I left to head back to class.
I should be ending off now, because the bell just rang and I really should get to class before McGonagall thinks I need extra help or something... Alright, I'm back, it's history now, and you're sitting there looking so delicious...
Oh stop blushing, Harry! I know you are! By the way, did you see that article in Witch Weekly about us? I think I saw Dursley reading it earlier, which surprised me. I didn't know he could read.
Anyway, I really should pay attention now. Call me at two thirty AM on my cell. I'll be waiting for it.
Love you always, Draco./
Harry put down the letter and smiled widely, his cheeks still pink.
===
At exactly two thirty in the morning, Harry called Draco. It rang, and rang... and rang. Harry frowned, there was definitely something wrong. Finally, Draco picked up. "Harry?" He asked, sounding a bit sluggish. "Can you come and pick me up? I'm at the hospital."
Harry's heart stopped. "What?" He croaked.
"Don't worry, I'm fine. Father and I got into an accident on the way home from class. He's got a mild concussion and they just stabilized him, but I've got no way to get home."
Harry sighed in relief. "Alright, which hospital?"
"St. Mungo's." Draco said after a pause, his voice still slow. "It's on the corner of Dervish and Banges, just a bit north of Diagon and Knocktern alley."
"Alright," he said. "I'll be there as fast as I can."
They hung up and Harry quickly got dressed. "Dad," Harry whispered, shaking his father awake.
James mumbled something unintelligible - though it sounded a lot like "where are my speedos?"
"Dad!" Harry hissed, slightly louder. "I'm going to pick up Draco."
"Where-"
"He's at the hospital. He and his dad got into an accident this afternoon."
James' eyes went wide. "Do you want me to-"
"No," Harry said, "we'll be fine."
James nodded and rolled over and went back to sleep. Harry however, rolled his eyes and left the room, silently descending the steps and leaving the warm house for the replacement of cold January air. He jumped into his already running car and quickly drove towards the hospital.
He arrived and quickly parked before running into the building. "I'm looking for a Mr. Draco Malfoy," Harry told the man at the information center. "Could you tell me what room he's in please?"
The man typed something into his computer. "Why do you want to know?" He asked when the file had been pulled up.
"He asked me to pick him up. He said, um, *father* had a mild concussion so he had no ride home." Harry exagerated the "father" part, making it sound like he and Draco were brothers.
The man's eyes softened with pity. "Room 214b." He said. "Take the elevator to the second floor, it should be on the left side of the hallway." He handed Harry a pink slip of paper. "Give this to the nurse in the Nurse's Center up there, it will allow you two boys to leave."
Harry thanked the man and raced towards the elevators. The hospital was, for the most part, empty. Only a few nurses, security guards and a doctor or two could be seen. Harry burst into room 214b and hurried as quietly as he could to the small hospital bed in the corner.
"Oh, Draco," he whispered, his eyes welling up with tears. Scratches and cuts raked across the blond's skin, especially his face. His right arm was wrapped tightly in a cast, the other hooked to an IV. Draco's gray eyes opened slightly.
"Hi, you." He whispered, obviously more drugged up by with something to numb the pain then he had been before.
Harry managed a weak smile and sat down on the side of the bed. "Hi yourself." He whispered back. "Draco, you're in no state to go home."
As well as he could, Draco rolled his eyes. "Would you just stay here with me?" He asked. "I hate this place. It's too - I don't know, quiet? Please, Harry? I want you to be here with me."
Harry nodded. "You know I'll stay with you." He smiled, "I told you that a long time ago. So, what happened?"
Draco frowned. "I'm not really sure. We were stopped at a light, and then it turned green, so Father started into the intersection, then, out of nowhere, this *really* *ugly* car hits us. Father got the most of it, I was basically hit with flying glass. My arm kind of got stuck in between the seat and him, it broke somewhere on the lower bone... can't think of the name."
"Where is your father?" Harry asked, standing up and looking around.
"Intensive care, is what they told me." Draco replied. "On the other end of the hospital."
Harry nodded again. "I'm going to get some blankets and scrubs to sleep in." He told Draco. "I'll be right back."
By the time Harry got back, his arms full of blankets, pillows and spare surgery pants, Draco had already fallen into a deep, drug induced, sleep. Harry smiled and quickly arranged a bed on the window seat. With a last thought before he got into bed, he called his house and left a message for his parents as to where he was and what the situation was, as an after thought, he asked them to call the school in the morning and excuse him for the day. Then, the room was silent.
=================================
AN Review and I'll update.
.