Chapter Seven
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters nor the scenery which you could recognise, the only thing I take credit for is the plot.
Pairings: None for this chapter.
Warnings: DarkHarry, Dumbledore, Hermione and Weasley bashing (excluding Bill, Charlie, Fred and George).
Word Count: 6,677
Date Rewritten: 31/01/2020
Draco sits on one of the sofas in the Riddle family lounge, back leaning against the arm with his legs outstretched as his eyes scan the words of a large tome he his holding in his lap, his full attention on the sentences he is reading, trying to understand and learn what is, as his Mother stated, much too advanced for his age.
He ignores his parents sitting a short distance away in front of the fireplace discussing plans to take revenge against Harry muggle relatives and the esteemed Headmaster Dumbledore. Though, he too is feeling pretty angry at the way Harry had been treated by both parties, he knows that revenge, though satisfying, wouldn't protect and help his friend. That is what he wanted to do; he wants to be the one to protect Harry, heal him when he is hurt and stop his tears when he is sad. His Father and Mother had never been able to give him a younger sibling, so this is his chance to be a big brother to a small boy who needs someone to finally look after him.
So engrossed in his reading, Draco doesn't pay much heed to the silence pertaining the air around him, nor does he notice how his parents were now making their way over to him. Eyes concerned lips pressed in thin lines they slowly seat themselves on the sofa cushions beside their Son; Draco startles a little when his Mother gently rests his legs over her lap. Lowering to book into his lap Draco raises an eyebrow in question at his parent's sudden appearance he feels a light blush dusting his cheeks when he sees the pleased glimmer in his Mother's eyes and the knowing look on his Father's face.
"What has captured your attention so, Draco. You didn't answer when we called for you."
Narcissa's voice is soft, melodic as she smooths a hand down her Son's leg, tapping his ankle absently. Draco shifts in his seat eyes flicking down to the tome in his lap before glancing between his parents. He can feel his blush deepening as he sits up further, resting his side against his Mother he slips the book across his lap lifting the cover to show his Mother and Father the title. Refusing to meet their knowing gazes, Draco looks down at his legs watching as his Mother's delicate hand taps out a beat on his ankle. He doesn't see the amused expressions shared between them as he strokes a hand across the title reverently, Healing spells for beginners.
"And why would you be reading a book on Healing Magicks, Draco? You are not hurt, are you?"
Draco rolls his eyes knowing that his Father knew full well that he hadn't injured himself, his gaze flickers towards the closed doors and sighs heavily.
"I didn't like seeing Harry so hurt. I don't like knowing that while I was here acting like a selfish, immature brat that Harry was living through hell with his family. I want to help him not be hurt again."
His expressions crumbles solemnly, shooting a shy smile to his parents he shrugs his shoulders helplessly, there wasn't much else he could do for his friend until he was much older. He squeaks softly when he feels himself being pulled into a tight embrace by his Mother, his Father patting him on the shoulder in silent support.
Many people may say that his family, the Malfoy's were unfeeling, uncaring and evil dark wizards and they probably couldn't picture the aristocratic socialites acting as a perfectly normal, happy family but he knew better. His mother was kind, caring, soft spoken and a genuinely loving Mother, she was always there for him when he was upset and always gave him good advice when he needed it. His Father, though busy with his Ministry employment always made sure to make time for his during the day. He had been the one t teach him how to play Quidditch, how to play wizarding chess. They had had a lot of fun together rough housing and playing in the back garden; even his magical theory and Heir lessons had been enjoyable.
"We are so proud of you Son, Harry is lucky to have such a good friend in you,"
Your Mother is right as always, Draco. I am sure that Harry will appreciate your efforts to keep him safe."
Smiling Draco wraps his arms around his Mother's waist leaning into his Father's hand for a moment before pulling away. Shifting back to his previous position against the arm of the sofa, Draco picks his book up settling back in order to continue where he left off when the doors to the lounge open.
All occupants turn their heads towards the doors, watching in stunned silence as Lord Voldemort walks into the room carrying Harry securely on his hip Severus following at his side. The two adults chuckle at something the young child is saying, and the Malfoy's watch the exchange with soft smiles on their faces trying to gauge what the conversation was about.
"Oh, I am sure they would like that Snakelet, you can ask them later if you would like?"
Harry giggles, his smile the brightest any of them had seen in months, especially for Draco and Severus who had spent almost every day with the young boy during the final weeks of the academic year.
"Do you really think so?"
Harry's laughter turns into a shy smile as he glances up at his Father, looking through his fringes as he tightens the grip he has around the man's neck. His eyes shine with anticipation, trepidation. So much so that he doesn't notice the Malfoy family listening to them attempting to gauge what the conversation was about.
"I am positive, Snakelet."
The Dark Lord responds with a chuckle, brushing Harry's from his face. He glances up eyeing his follows with a light smirk stretching his lips.
"But for now, I think we have a few things to discuss with our audience, don't you?"
Nudging his head subtly in the general direction of the Malfoys. Harry turns himself around offering a small wave towards the room's occupants glancing nervously at them. Lord Voldemort carries his son over towards a vacant sofa, sitting himself down he slides Harry into the seat by his side, holding him close to his side while gesturing for Severus to take a seat on Harry's other side. He does so with only a short moment of hesitation.
"Alright, now that we are all here, we can begin. I believe we are all aware that our mission was a complete success. Aldwyn is here now, he is safe and after tomorrow there will be no chance of anyone taking him away from me."
Draco tilts his head to the side, looking from Harry to Dark Lord and back again, eyebrows furrowing as he bites his lip contemplating on voicing his thought. Taking a deep breath, he glances back up at Lord Voldemort.
"Aldwyn? Is that Harry's new name? He won't be Harry Potter anymore?"
Now, before the ritual, before he had reabsorbed most of his soul shards, Lord Voldemort would have promptly cursed anyone who dared to interrupt him while he was talking but considering it was the Malfoy Heir. A friend of Harry's he simply nods his head in agreement. Glancing down at his soon-to-be-son, Marvolo ruffles the boy's hair at the slightly puzzled look creasing his brow.
"Yes, I believe it would be for the best. I wish for Harry, Aldwyn to grow up as a normal wizarding child. He should never have had nor will he have the weight of the war nor the entire wizarding world on his shoulders and Dumbledore is a fool for putting it there. He will be known from now on as Aldwyn Salazar Slytherin, my Son and Heir."
Lucius, Narcissa, Severus and Draco nod along, agreeing with their Lord's decision, it may not be a completely fool proof plan (as soon as Dumbledore saw the name Slytherin he would know just whose son he was) but it was the best they could do under the circumstances. Besides, with Fudge as Minister there was no way the Ministry would believe the old fool if he began to accuse a 12-year-old boy of being the Son of the Late Dark Lord.
"And as we are the topics of names, I will be going by a version of my old name, Thomas Marvolo Riddle and therefore unless a meeting has been called or we our out on a raid or mission I wish for you all to refer to me as Marvolo. As soon as my Lordship has been claimed my name will be legally changed to Marvolo Slytherin."
The Dark Lord casts a cursory glance around the room, satisfied when his closest followers and friends nod along with his words. Even the Malfoy Heir which draws a silent chuckle from his lips.
"After Aldwyn is fully healed, or as healed as we can ensure, besides the malnutrition which he will still be taking potions for, I will be taking him to Gringotts to check his inheritance and his family vaults-"
"Vaults? But I only have one. Don't I?"
Aldwyn glances up at his Father, eyebrows furrowing as he worries his bottom lip between his teeth. A small frown pulls at his lips. He turns to look up at Severus, mind casting back on the memory of Hagrid explaining his vault to him on his first ever trip to Diagon.
"And what is an inheritance?"
Shock registers through the room as everyone stares down at the small child varying degrees of shock-horror shaping their features at the implication. Aldwyn squirms uncomfortably in his seat wishing that he hadn't asked at all. He had never been allowed to ask questions at the Dursleys' house before, maybe he wouldn't be allowed to here.
"If I may, Marvolo?"
The Dark Lord shakes himself out of his surprise looking towards the Malfoy Lord who is sitting rigidly in his seat, eyes narrowing in displeasure as he gazes down at Aldwyn. Marvolo gestures for Lucius to explain seeing as he was probably the most qualified to divulge such sensitive information to the eleven-year-old.
"Aldwyn, you are the sole Heir to the Most Noble House of Potter."
"Draco said something about that. He said that the Potters had similar wealth to the Malfoy and Black families but weren't Ancient and Most Noble because they weren't as old as the others?"
"That is right, Aldwyn. You are the sole Heir of this house and therefore will have access to all their vaults, properties, assets and businesses when you come of age and accept your Lordship. The vault you are currently using is called a trust vault, it is a vault most wizarding parents set up for their children to get them through their school years. It is what is used to buy school robes, textbooks, potions ingredients and for treats and supplies when you are allowed to go to Hogsmeade."
Aldwyn nods his head, the dynamics of the wizarding world becoming clearer for him as the days pass. He muddles through a few bits of information processing everything he is being told and disregarding things Hagrid, Ron or Dumbledore had told him.
"Aldwyn, who is your Magical Guardian?"
Severus adds, his gaze inquisitive as he glances down as Aldwyn. His muscles tighten when the young child merely shakes his head not understanding the question and his gut twists. He has a feeling that he is not going to like the answer.
"Aldwyn, do you know what a magical guardian is?"
The Dark Lord receives a small shake in the negative. Every adult exchange looks of outrage, having a good idea as to who the boy's magical guardian had been, but not understanding why Aldwyn had been left in the dark of his heritage for so long.
"Snakelet?"
The gentle voice of his Father sends soothing warmth through his veins allowing his muscles to relax a little as he glances nervously up at Marvolo, tears gathering in the corners of his eyes.
"Oh Snakelet, it is not your fault, none of this is your fault. Alright?"
Receiving a brief nod, Marvolo gathers his son in his arms, hugging him close to his chest as he begins to explain some of the things his Son should have been taught throughout his early childhood.
"A magical guardian is a person chosen, usually by the child's parents in their will, who is supposed to look after you. They are the ones who oversee your Heir lessons when you are young, before you go to Hogwarts which I assume you never received?"
Aldwyn shakes his head.
"They oversee your vaults, your seats in the Wizengamot and other additional aspects that comes with being the Lord of your Household. Normally, they have hold of your Gringotts Keys as well."
Aldwyn wipes his eyes, looking up at his Father before casting an unsure glance around the room, he collapses against the warm firm chest behind him when he sees multiple supportive expressions.
"Hagrid told me that Dumbledore gave him the key to my trust vault before he came to give me my acceptance letter. Does that mean that Dumbledore is my magical guardian?"
Anger shoots through the Dark Lord causing his eyes to flash red for a moment. Until he feels Aldwyn flinch in his arms. An almost silent 'I'm sorry' reaches his ears, the soft voice filled with fear as it draws the attention of Marvolo back to his small trembling child. Quickly, Marvolo tries to calm himself down, pulling Aldwyn back against his chest, holding him gently as he rocks them both from side to side, carding a hand through Aldwyn's hair.
"Shhh. It is alright, Snakelet. I am not angry with you, Aldwyn. I could never truly be angry with you. I am angry at Dumbledore; he has been trusted by the Ministry and your parents to look after you and he has not only failed you in regard to your wizarding heritage but has also failed to keep you safe. Aldwyn, my precious son, you are such a sweet boy, none of this is your fault."
With all his attention focused on alleviating Aldwyn's fear of confusion, Marvolo doesn't notice the expressions exchanged between Severus and Lucius until the first clears his throat.
"I am not entirely sure that the Potter's would have wished for Aldwyn to be put under the guardianship of Dumbledore; he was and still is Headmaster of Hogwarts as well as Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, he wouldn't have time to care for a child adequately. Besides, as far as I am aware, the Potter Wills have never been read and so therefore, no one knows who was supposed to care for Aldwyn. I am afraid that Dumbledore has manipulated the situation somehow, to raise Aldwyn as he wishes…"
With everyone's eyes now staring at himself, Severus feels himself shrinking back against the sofa cushion his cheeks heating slightly as his heart goes out to the little boy whose eyes once again shine with unshed tears. At the raised eyebrow from his Lord he takes a deep breath and presses on.
"Aldwyn were you ever informed of any will readings by Gringotts?"
The young boy shakes his head once more.
"Even if a child is underage, they would still have received a letter informing them of the will readings. In this case his mail would have been directed towards his Magical Guardian who would have then been expected to inform the child. This incident would prove that Dumbledore has unlawfully kidnapped a magical child but illegally withheld mail, inheritance and family rights. I assume, Aldwyn that you have never received a bank statement either."
Another negative. Severus looks towards the Dark Lord, tensing minutely at the intensity of his Lord's gaze.
"I see."
Marvolo brings a hand up to stroke his chin, eyes glazing in deep thought. This information, if found in the wrong hands, would aid their side a great deal. He could just imagine the uproar that would ensue if the wizarding world were to find out that Dumbledore had kidnapped a child, left said child with abusive muggles and knowingly kept their heritage from them. He smirks at the imagery.
"It seems Aldwyn, that we will be making a stop to Gringotts much earlier than expected. Though I am sure that with the Goblins neutrality and all, they will keep quiet about your adoption if you so choose. It will also ensure that you have no part in this war if you do not wish it."
Aldwyn shifts in his Father's lap, resting his feet on the cushion between Marvolo and Severus tugging his Father's robes to gain the man's attention. He grins at Marvolo before aiming the expression as Severus for a moment.
"But I can help, right Father? If I want to? I mean imagine what damage we could do to Dumbledore and his side with this information."
Marvolo grins down at his Son, their thoughts pleasantly directing down the same routes. He ruffles Aldwyn's hair as he smirks around the room.
"I was thinking, if we were to keep my adoption secret for a while. We would be able to make Harry Potter disappear and ensure, with the help of Lord Malfoy I am sure, that certain information pertaining Dumbledore's involvement of Harry Potter's mistreatment, wizarding foe pars etcetera. The public would turn on him and his side so quickly that we would be able to take over the Ministry without so much as an opposition."
Aldwyn's smirk widens at the expressions around the room.
"Going one step further, if we can somehow make the Muggles think that they killed Harry due to the severity of their abuse and implement Dumbledore once again."
Draco giggles at the look of exuberance spreading across his friend's face. He smirks in response when Aldwyn catches his gaze.
"I do believe that is a masterful plan you have concocted, Heir Slytherin."
Draco smirks at Aldwyn watching as his friend's expressions widens in response. The two children don't notice the amusement shining in the adults' eyes.
"When you go to Gringotts' you can confirm if Dumbledore has manipulated everything and if he has then you and your Father, with the help of Father and Severus will be able to plan the release of this information to the entire wizarding population. It would not only make his lose favour but he may also lose his job as Headmaster of Hogwarts. I mean who would want a man who encourages child abuse to be in charge of hundreds of kids?"
Aldwyn slips back into his seat on the sofa, leaning into Marvolo's side as he grins excitedly.
"I do believe you are correct, Heir Malfoy. When Father claims his Lordship, he with the help of your Father no doubt, will be able to influence the Laws forbidding 'magical creatures' from getting jobs and houses and gaining an adequate education. We may be able to convince some Hogwarts students into joining our cause if we don't mention them being the aims of the Dark."
The adults sit back and watch the children. Smirks shaping their features as they listen to their enthusiastic plans of their sides victory over the Light side. Marvolo chuckles ruffling Aldwyn's hair which causes his Son to jump slightly turning to gaze up at his Father he blushes slightly, grinning sheepishly as he rubs the back of his neck.
"Sorry, Father."
Marvolo chuckles once more, dropping a soft kiss to Aldwyn's head drawing a bright smile from the eleven-year-old.
"There is nothing for you to apologise for, Snakelet. I believe your plans would work perfectly. I am sure that we will be able to plan a trip to Gringotts for tomorrow, if you feel up for it. We can see what your inheritance is as well as who your magical guardian should have been. Then we will be able to get the documents for your adoption sorted. I believe we should get it done through the Goblins rather than go to the Ministry as the Goblins would conduct it with the utmost discretion. This way no one would be able to find any information about your adoption nor link you and Harry Potter together."
Here Voldemort looks towards Lucius who instantly nods his head in agreement.
"I believe you are correct, Marvolo. The Ministry would insist that an inquiry is conducted to ensure the treatment of Aldwyn was deplorable enough to warrant being taken away from his home. They would also insist on a trail hearing for the Muggle family, including the entire Wizengamot even Dumbledore. Everyone would know that your adopted son is Harry Potter by the end of the day."
Inclining his head in thanks, Marvolo turns his attention to Severus who without being asked also nods his head in understanding.
"I will have the potions ready fort eh blood adoption by the time we return home-"
"We, Severus?"
Severus scratches the back of his head nervously, his facing flushing a light pink under the scrutinising gaze of the Dark Lord. Aldwyn glances curiously between the two men, eyeing the teasing smirk on his Father's face and the self-conscious fidgeting of his Potion's master. He turns his gaze to Draco who smiles at him, raising his eyebrow suggestively; a promise that they will talk about whatever is happening later.
"Well Marvolo, I do think it is time I claim my own Lordship. It is rather overdue."
Marvolo smiles at the potion's master drawing a delightful blush across the dour man's nose and cheeks, the pale paler of Severus' skin making it highly visible. Severus returns the smile with a shy one of his own before clearing his throat ignoring the knowing glints in Lucius and Narcissa's eyes.
"Very well Severus. I was hoping you would agree to come with us, but this is much better. Does anyone know if there are any teaching positions available at Hogwarts? I would rather have more than just Severus stationed at the school to ensure Aldwyn's safety. Not that I don't trust you Severus."
"I know, Marvolo."
Once again, Marvolo watches as Aldwyn and Draco hold a silent conversation incorporating an array of raised eyebrows, shoulder shrugs, and quirks of lips. He draws his son against his side, pressing a soft kiss to the boy's hair smiling at the grin stretching his son's lips.
"What are you two planning this time?"
Narcissa raises an eyebrow between the two children, delighting in the innocent expressions she receives. If she didn't know here son as well as she did then she would have fallen for it, however she knew Draco well enough to spot the mischievous shine to his eyes. She chuckles at the boy's ruffling Draco's hair, smirking at his quiet squeak of protest.
"Now, my little Snakelet, what were the two of you planning?"
Hugging his Son tighter, Marvolo glances between the two children who drop their innocent fronts in place of devilish smirks. Draco faces the Dark Lord.
"Well, we were thinking if you were able to get rid of the History of Magic professor then you could put someone in his place? I mean anything would be better than hearing about the Goblin wars and rebellions over and over again."
"Most people use Professor Binns' lessons as an excuse to take a nap or catch up on work for their other subjects."
Aldwyn adds in. Giggling when his Father exchanges concerned glances with the rest of the adults, his eyebrow cocked in slight disbelief.
"Why would you want your History of Magic professor replacing?"
Marvolo glances between the children, before Severus draws his attention by clearing his throat. The potions professor shakes his head, fingers twisting together in his lap.
"If I may, Marvolo. I agree with Aldwyn and Draco that Professor Binns in unfit to teach. I remember having his as a student and he was indeed to monotonous to keep his students engaged for long. I am sure we will be able to convince the Ministry and the Board of Governors to exorcise him before replacing him."
Marvolo looks at Severus in shock, glancing down at Draco before shifting to stare at his Son who nods in agreement with the potion master's words.
"Are you trying to tell me that Dumbledore still has that infernal ghost teaching the students at Hogwarts nonsense about numerous insignificant historical events? What of the founders? The first wizarding war? Grindelwald? Is none of this being taught?"
Severus and Lucius shake their head nervously glancing at their Lord when his eyes flash red at the implications. The students at Hogwarts needed to know their history, needed to know why they had the statute of secrecy, what happened during the first wizarding war and why it began in the first place. Aldwyn glances up at his Father shuffles in his seat and draws himself up to his knees. He places a kiss to his Father's cheek smiling when Marvolo looks down at him in surprise.
"What was that for, Aldwyn? Not that I mind."
"Father you looked mad and I didn't want you to be upset so I made you happy."
Aldwyn smiles widely eyes sparkling with joy when Marvolo draws his Son into a tight embrace, brushing his fingers to the boy's soft raven locks. He sighs into Aldwyn's shoulder his own lips upturning as he pulls back to ruffle his Son's hair.
"Thank you, Son. I am much happier now."
Aldwyn nods his head dropping back down to seat himself on the sofa with a bright smile shaping his lips he leans against his Father's side, giggling when the man wraps a secure arm around his shoulders.
"Lucius, I want you to try and get the Board of Governors for Hogwarts to exorcise that professor, what about the Defence position?"
Marvolo turns towards Severus seeing as he works at Hogwarts, he would most likely know just who Dumbledore was thinking of hiring for the Defence position if he had received any applications that is.
"So far, Dumbledore has received but one application from Gilderoy Lockhart and unless he receives another then we will be stuck with that fraud."
Nodding his head, Marvolo furrows his eyebrows in thought, absently stroking the raven locks of his son making the child close his eyes and sigh in contentment at the ministration. He leans further into his Father's side.
"Hmmm. Well I think we should leave that for now. I will ponder who I want to put in the History of Magic professor; I hear professors have control over what they teach?"
"Yes, although it needs to cover what will be tested on in O. and N.E. but other than that Dumbledore gives his staff freedom to teach what they would like."
"Very well. I may take the position myself if that is the case."
"I don't think Dumbledore will be able to refuse an application made by the descendent of one of the founders, no matter which founder."
Severus smirks at Marvolo who returns the expression. No, Dumbledore would not be able to refuse his application a second time. Especially if the Board of Governors were to be informed of his decision beforehand.
"Right so we have that sorted out for now. What is next?"
Marvolo mutters to himself, counting off his thoughts on his fingers. Aldwyn watches in amusement.
"Alright, so we have covered Aldwyn's adoption and inheritance as well as both of our name changes. The changes we will implement at Hogwarts this upcoming year and within the Ministry. Severus, both you and I are going to claim our Lordship rings. Lucius I would like for you to come with us when we check Aldwyn's inheritance. The more witnesses we have, the better. Depending on what we find, will lead to whether we tip off Rita Skeeter and the Daily Prophet or not. Is there anything else? Ah, yes…"
The Dark Lord draws his son into his lap, cuddling the young boy close to his chest. He pokes his Son's side and smiles when he receives a small giggle in response.
"Alright, Aldwyn I was needing to inform you that we will be moving into the Slytherin Mansion in a couple of days. I wanted to wait until you had recovered from the ritual. Now, Slytherin Mansion is where we will take up permanent residence and it is where, if you are agreeable, you will be coming home to during the holidays."
Aldwyn stares up delighted, eyes glittering with happiness as he hugs his Father's arms which are still wrapped around his waist.
"Home? I get to come home for the holidays?"
At receiving a sharp nod from his Father Aldwyn releases a child-like squeal of happiness. He twists around and throws his arms around his Father's neck, tears gathering in the corners of his eyes as he hugs the man tightly.
"Will Severus and Draco be allowed to come visit us there too? Mr and Mrs Malfoy as well?"
The hopefully pleading look he sends his Father has the Dark Lord caving in an instant.
"If they would like to then I don't see why not."
Severus, who is watching the Dark Lord's interaction with his son intently quickly covers his mouth with his hand, trying to smother his chuckles at how fast Marvolo, the Dark, evil and all-powerful Dark Lord bends to his Sons wishes. He tries to curb his laughter but is unsuccessful when he realises, he is now on the receiving end of one of Marvolo's patented death glares. He doesn't feel threatened by the stare, however.
"Something you find amusing, Severus."
Marvolo smirks at his potions master indicating that he already knew what he was laughing at and can't help but feel like laughing along with Severus, but he tries to keep up his 'Dark Lord' image, secretly pleased to note that Severus doesn't cower under his gaze.
"Nothing of importance, Marvolo. I would be delighted to join you and Aldwyn at the Mansion for the holidays, unless Dumbledore has need of me…"
The last part is muttered, disappointment and reluctance covering his tone making the Dark Lord smile gently. He glances back down at his Son whose eyes are beginning to drift, his Son is losing interest in all this talk and will need something to entertain himself soon. He runs a hand through raven-locks silently promising to find something for Aldwyn to do soon.
"Not to worry, Severus. I am sure I can come up with an excuse to ensure Dumbledore cannot keep you within the school during the holidays."
He grins coyly, his insides twisting in pleasure, something he hadn't felt since he had first became the Dark Lord and initiating his followers into his ranks. Severus raises an eyebrow wondering what had made Marvolo offer him such an expression. He feels his cheeks lighting up, his heart beating slightly faster and curses his pale complexion.
"Oh? And what would this excuse entail, if you don't mind my asking, Marvolo?"
Lucius and Narcissa exchange a short glance, smirking at the exchange transpiring between their friend and Lord. They had never really noticed Marvolo's feelings for Severus before, but they watch as the pair blush like school children with their first crushes. They watch in silence as Marvolo grins playfully, his eyes glittering with challenge as he locks his expression with Severus'.
"Well, we could tell Dumbledore that I have need of your potion skills, he will, no doubt be convinced of my return by then or we could tell him that you wish to spend time during the holidays with your family."
"But Dumbledore knows I have no family left, he would never buy into that excuse."
His grin widens when Severus cocks his head to the side in question, his long black hair falling over his shoulder. Marvolo stares at his potions master, eyes diluting ever so slightly, and he subtly wets his lips as his gaze takes in the visage of Severus. After a moment, Marvolo takes a deep breath attempting to control his own blush he smirks.
"Well, I never mentioned anything about blood family, Severus. We can imply to the Headmaster that you have a partner you wish to spend time with."
At this point, Aldwyn is glancing between his Father and Severus with wide eyes, a hopeful gleam glittering within their depths as a small smile softens his features.
"And who am I to say my partner is, Marvolo?"
"Exactly."
The Dark Lord responds, his smirk widening when Severus' face explodes in a deep blush, eyes widening as he stares up at Marvolo. He searches the Dark Lord's looking for some sign that he was joking around, that he wasn't really serious about his suggestion but all he can see is open honesty and a hint of challenge in his brown eyes. He glances at Narcissa and Lucius, blush deepening, if that were possible, at their silent snickering.
"And you would not mind, that the Headmaster and no doubt the entire Hogwarts staff would then assume I and the esteemed Lord Slytherin were in a relationship?"
Severus licks his lips nervously, hands clenching together in his lap as he tries his hardest to continue smirking at his lord, though he can hear his voice trembling. Hoping beyond hope that his Lord was implying what he wishes him to be implying.
"Severus, there is nothing that would make me mind the entire Hogwarts faculty knowing or thinking that we are in an exclusive relationship. If it were something you wouldn't mind either?"
Marvolo follows his statement with a sly wink towards his potions master. He slides Aldwyn into the seat between himself and Severus before pushing himself up from the seat, brushing a few stray creases in his robes out. He smiles down at Severus, watching as his breath stutters in his chest.
"I wouldn't mind that at all, Marvolo."
"Good. Though they may be surprised that the 'evil dungeon bat' has entered into a relationship with someone who has an eleven almost twelve-year-old child."
"Well, this particular man has an exceptionally adorable child. How could I say no to such a relationship?"
Severus responds ruffling Aldwyn's hair as the child looks between himself and his Father with hopeful eyes and Severus draws him closer, tickling him in the sides for a second delighting in the soft giggle he pulls from the boy.
"If you two have finished flirting now, can we do something?"
Aldwyn giggles at the matching blushes dusting his Father's and Severus' cheeks. He squeals when they both attack his sides once more causing him to laugh, squirming helplessly as their fingers graze his sides.
"I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Stop. Please."
He forces the words out between giggles, his face heating up and his breathing stutters. He wriggles, rolls, kicks and shifts trying to get away from their merciless tickling. Marvolo and Severus share a glance, lips stretched into wide grins as they cease their attack on the young child; all three chuckling softly as Aldwyn works on calming his breathing down. His smile wide as he glances up at the two adults.
"Seriously, though Father have you finished flirting with Sev now?"
"For the moment, Snakelet."
Severus blushes as Aldwyn sniggers at his Father's smirking face. He slips off the sofa, sliding his hand into his Father's and glances up at the man before offering his other hand to Severus who with only a small amount of hesitation takes it, standing up from his seat also.
"Lunch and then we can do something fun. How does that sound Snakelet?"
"Okay, Father."
Marvolo gestures for the Malfoy family to join them as he makes his way through the halls of the Manor leading the group towards the informal dining room. He directs Aldwyn to sit at his righthand side while Severus is instructed to sit by his left. Lucius and Narcissa sit next to Severus while Draco takes the seat by Aldwyn's side. As soon as everyone is seated, Marvolo clicks his fingers and a house elf appears by his side in a second. After requesting lunch to be bought out, the elf quickly disappears only for an array of sandwiches and snacks to fill the table ready to be eaten.
Before Aldwyn can reach for the food, Severus slides a small potions vial across the table, with a deep sigh Aldwyn uncorks the potion and downs it in one swallow, scrunching his nose up at the awful taste. He reaches over and downs half his glass of pumpkin juice to get rid of the nasty taste.
"Ewww. I don't think I am ever going to get used to that taste. Ever."
The occupants chuckle at Aldwyn's look of disgust as he hands the empty vial back to Severus. His nose still scrunched up in displeasure. Marvolo ruffles his Son's hair.
"It won't be for too long, Snakelet. You only have to take them until you are back to full health again. I am sure time will pass in the blink of an eye."
Aldwyn nods his head before reaching for a sandwich, he fills his plate with food and happily digs in as his stomach grumbles at the smell. The group chat amicably for a moment, all laughing and joking about, making plans for the remaining weeks of the summer holidays. Draco and Aldwyn discuss the different games they are going to play and what they are expecting for when they go back to Hogwarts being careful not to mention any mischief they are planning to get up to.
It doesn't take long for them all to finish their lunch and Aldwyn jumps down from the table, a large grin shaping his lips as he grabs his Father's hand. He begins to drag the man towards the dining hall doors, laughing joyfully. He motions for the others to follow.
"Where are we going, Snakelet?"
"I saw a chess set in the family lounge. Can we play Father? Please."
Marvolo grips his son's hand tighter, rolling his eyes at the pleading look his son is directing towards him and he can feel himself giving in. If he wasn't careful his Son was going to become the most lovingly spoilt child in the wizarding world. Not that he minded indulging the small child.
"Of course, we may, Aldwyn."
"Yay. So, Severus and I against you!"
Severus sniggers as he follows behind his Lord, it may have been his fault that Aldwyn had become obsessed with the game, it had been one of the only things he had in his chambers and something he had started teaching Aldwyn to play properly. The young boy had taken to the game instantly and loved learning the different moves and strategies, especially when Severus would tell him stories of his Mother while they played.
"And why would it be fair that you and Severus gang up on me?"
"Because you are too smart to lose against us and besides, I'm not very good. Severus has been teaching me, but I haven't won a single game yet."
Marvolo chuckles at his Son's logic, glancing over his shoulder at the potions master who is smiling down at his son in amusement.
"Alright, I will allow you and Severus to team up, just this once."
Aldwyn nods in agreement and Severus rolls his eyes knowing that if Aldwyn asked then Marvolo would definitely give in to his Son's wishes in a heartbeat once more. He also knows that Aldwyn isn't as bad as he is claiming to be which serves for further amusement; with the two of them working together they could lead the Dark Lord into a false sense of security and win easily. Aldwyn looks back at Severus and winks. It was going to be an amusing afternoon.