Chapter Nineteen
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: Severus/Marvolo.
Warnings: Dark Harry, Dumbledore, Hermione, and Weasley bashing (excluding Bill, Charlie, Fred, and George).
Word Count: 7,178
Date Written: 11/03/2021
Aldwyn sits in silence, mind whirling as he stares unblinking down at the Gringotts official document held in his lap, his eyes continuously flickering towards the relatively high pile of presents sitting on the floor by the side of the sofa in the near centre of the room. He watches as one of the Slytherin family house elves pop into the room, cleaning up the used wrapping paper as he places his new birth certificate into his lap smoothing the parchment reverently. His fingers trace the golden calligraphy, pleased with the way the letter seem to glow in the sunlight. He settles back against his parents' arms crossing against his back, sighing in contentment when he feels warmth and love surround him as he closes his eyes to savour the feeling.
Due to his contented distraction and his tender smile, no one comments when Aldwyn jumps, a small squeak escaping his throat when Geeney suddenly appears in the middle of the room, her round eyes blown wide as her ears seem to flap in what Aldwyn could only describe as poorly concealed excitement. He grins down at his elf.
"Is Little Master Aldwyn wishing for Geeney to be taking his new things up to his bedroom for him?"
Aldwyn nods his head, glancing at the pile of gifts once more, he smiles down at his little friend as soon as he regulates his breathing from his fright. He settles back down into his parents embrace.
"Yes, please Geeney that would be perfect thank you. Can you make sure to leave out the Slytherin family cloak, my new Dragon hide boots from Aunt Narcissa and Uncle Lucius, the pin from Draco and then place them on my bed with some fresh clothes for me. Oh, and also my new fingerless gloves if it isn't too much trouble?"
Geeney nods her head rapidly, her large ears slapping herself in the face before she bows low enough to scrap them off the carpeted floor, hands clasping behind her back as she straightens up once more, bouncing on her toes.
Of course, Young Master. It being no trouble at all. Geeney would also like to wish Master Aldwyn a very happy birthday and she makes you this."
Geeney grins widely at her master, hands holding out a small wooden carving of a snake, one that looked suspiciously like his Father familiar Nagini, who he hadn't seen much of during his stay in the manor, apparently she liked to spend most of her time hunting for rats in the manor grounds, or other small creatures. Aldwyn takes to offered sculpture, eyeing the craftsmanship with awe.
"Did you make this Geeney? It is brilliant."
"Geeney bes making it for Little master, since Little Master first bes arriving at the Manor and Geeney being asked to bes your house elf. Master Aldwyn."
"Thank you, Geeney. Would you mind finding somewhere special for this to go, maybe on one of the shelves in my bedroom. I want to be able to see it at all times."
Geeney takes the sculpture back from Aldwyn, ears flapping at her side as she once more nods her head in agreement. She clicks her fingers and the rest of his gifts float over to her as he bows to Aldwyn.
"Geeney bes doing as you wish Little master. Leave it all to Geeney. Yours clothes bes ready for you when yous be getting ready for the party."
With that said, Geeney disappears with a pop, the pile of presents vanishing along with her and the group are once again left in silence.
"Well Snakelet, I do believe it is about time for you to begin the preparations for your and Draco's birthday party, don't you?"
Aldwyn manages to tear his eyes away from his birth certificate at the sound of his Papa's voice, not making a sound as his hands smooth over the document his nerves spiking at the daunting task of meeting a group of children who, before now, wouldn't have given him the time of day except to pick on him and potentially ruin his potions work. His eyes flicker from Severus' onyx eyes to his Father warm brown sucking his lip into his mouth, eyebrows furrowing in silent question.
"Do not worry so, Snakelet. I am sure that Mr Malfoy will be needing to prepare as well. Why not invite him along with yourself while we go and prepare the back garden for the arrival of your guests?"
Almost immediately Aldwyn leans back against his parents, wide eyes seeking out the icy blue of Draco, pleading with his friend to come with him. To help him and calm him down, to stick by him while he navigates the swarm of children who will likely be milling around outside in just a few short hours. His voice, barely above a whisper travels through the silent air as he wills to Merlin and Morgana that Draco would keep him company.
"Draco…?"
Draco doesn't wait for Aldwyn to finish his inquiry for his gaze has already been directed towards his parents with an identical look of pleading which make the Malfoy Lord and lady cave instantly.
"Mother, Father may I accompany Aldwyn, please?"
His tone is polite in his attempt to remain regal as any heir should and yet the adults are still able to detect the slight underlying sound of desperation; Malfoy's do not whine nor beg. Draco subconsciously widens his eyes, their icy blue turning to a more molten silver as he mentally encourages for his parents to hurry up and allow him to go with his friend. He didn't wish to Floo back to Malfoy Manor in order to change on to have to return in just a few hours.
Draco watches in silent anticipation when his Mother is the first to shift, her hands delicately pulling a tiny bundle from the pocket of her bed robe and he couldn't supress the smile if he tried. He takes the offered pile as soon as his Mother had enlarged it, gripping his own dragon hide boots firmly to the top of the pile to ensure nothing fell as he turns to face Aldwyn with a wide grin. Jumping to his feet, Draco is quick to press a grateful kiss to his parents' cheeks. He turns to Aldwyn once again, grin widening at the look of pure relief spreading across Aldwyn's features at the silent answer.
Severus, noticing that his Godson is now waiting patiently for Aldwyn to join him gently picks his Son up from his perch between himself and Marvolo. Placing the young boy in his lap, Severus drops a kiss to Aldwyn's forehead, smoothing his hair away from his face and he cuddles the child close. He calls for Aldwyn's house elf when he catches sight of the birth certificate still being held gently in his Son's fists.
"Geeney!"
The small creature appears in a flash, bowing towards the potions master and wringing her hands nervously in front of herself; never had she been called by the Masters of the house, not since she had been gifted to Aldwyn anyway. She ponders on the fact that she may have displeased them in her services for a brief moment. Before she catches sight of the gentle smile being directed towards her by Severus. She allows herself to relax a little.
"Geeney, I would like for you to place Aldwyn's new birth certificate in one of our finest frames and hang it wherever he chooses in his bedroom."
Geeney nods her head in understanding, letting an almost silent breath of relief escape her throat. Turning to face her charge, Aldwyn didn't like her referring to him as her Master, even if she still did use that title when talking to him. Her little Master had said that they were friends.
"Of course, Master Princey. Geeney bes more than happy to place Young Master Aldwyn's special paper in the prettiest frame shes can find."
The small creature turns expectant eyes towards Aldwyn, hands thrusting out in front of herself in preparation to take the document from her Little Master and find the perfect place to hang it. Aldwyn, however, is quick to clutch the parchment to his chest, not wishing to part with the proof of his family lineage so soon. Not wishing to have such a thing taken away from him, even if it were just to his bedroom where he would be going in just a few short moments. Aldwyn shakes his head, mindful that he doesn't crease the document. He startles when a large hand lands on his shoulder, a comforting weight which drags his attention to his Father who kisses his temple.
"You need not worry so, Aldwyn. Geeney is not going to damage your birth certificate, your Papa and I made sure the Goblins warded and spelled it against any forms of accidents which may damage the document. It will be perfectly safe, I promise."
Nodding reluctantly, Aldwyn hesitantly hands the certificate over to his overexuberant house elf, chuckling softly when she bows so low that her large ears brush against the carpet, her nose not far behind. He watches her go, popping out of the room with an audible crackle and a small flash of smoke before the room is once more left in a moment of silence.
"Alright Little Snakelet. Why don't you take Draco on up to your bedroom so that you may both begin preparing for your party?"
Twisting on Severus' lap, Aldwyn's gaze flickers from his Papa to his Father head nodding once again in agreement, he didn't want to be late for his very first birthday party after all. Shuffling off his Papa's lap, with the mans help, Aldwyn once again wraps his arms around his parents in another hug, pulling back after only a moment.
"Okay, Papa. I will see you both in a hour or so. I love you both."
"And we love you very dearly, Snakelet. Now run along before Young Draco here explodes from all his pent-up excitement. Bill and Charlie will be arriving later today as well; they finally managed to get away from the old coot after his 'highly important' staff breakfast."
Marvolo chuckles at the small pout forming on the young Malfoy's face at his jibe though it subsides in the presence of Aldwyn's rising anticipation at seeing the elder two Weasley children once again and so soon after they had last been at the manor. Gently pushing his Son in the direction of the door, Marvolo and Severus smile reassuringly at their child; his actions spurring Draco into movement as he appears at Aldwyn's side. Gripping his friend's hand, Draco proceeds to drag Aldwyn out of the family lounge giving him enough time to wave a quick good-bye to his parents before they are out of sight.
Draco continues to lead Aldwyn through the corridors, only stopping when they have made their way through the maze-like hallways ending up directly outside Aldwyn's bedroom door despite the constant jostling and playful shoves they had exchanged along the way, working of some of their energy. Aldwyn is quick to push open his door, bowing lowly as he gestures for Draco to proceed him into the room with a quip of 'Ladies first' which has them both collapsing into an undignified heap as another fit of giggles seizes them.
Aldwyn, after a few moments of struggling, is the first to regain himself, pulling himself to his feet, he takes a deep calming breath to regulate his breathing as he casts a cursory glance around his bedroom, grinning when he finds that Geeney had already sorted his presents out. Placing them with the utmost care in their rightful places. His new books are resting on one of his bookshelves, potions ingredients had been organised along one of his wall shelves, in alphabetical order by the looks of things. Turning to look towards his bed, Aldwyn grins wider when he spots his birth certificate hanging on the wall above his headboard, placed in a silvery frame, the intricately carved swirls making the document stand out all the more, especially with the addition of small green gems which had been sealed within the border.
Moving to sit on his mattress, Aldwyn absentmindedly strokes his fingers down the soft material of his new cloak, eyes taking on an unfocused sheen as he stares across the room at nothing sinking deep within his own thoughts. Anxieties rising minutely as his mind spins. Draco, who has finally managed to catchi his breath notices the look shaping Aldwyn's features and is quick to push himself from the floor, silently making his way to his friend. He sits down on the edge of the bed, slowly wrapping an arm around Aldwyn's shoulders and pulling the unresisting form into a sidewards embrace.
"What's wrong, Aldwyn?"
Shrugging his shoulders lightly, Aldwyn snaps himself out of his thoughts, subconsciously leaning into Draco embrace with a small sigh. His eyes blink rapidly as they try to mitigate the dryness within them from his staring.
"I don't know."
His eyes drop to his lap, watching as his fingers tangle together, he knows what is bothering him, knows that his fears stem from his treatment at the Dursleys, knows that he can't really help how he is feeling but not wishing to bring Draco's mood down with him. He takes a breath, surreptitiously casting a glance to Draco who tightens his arm around his shoulders.
"What if… what if your friends don't like me? What if I say something or do something to offend someone and they laugh at me? What if they don't like how I dress or how I speak?"
Draco shakes his head almost as soon as Aldwyn starts speaking, knowing that his friend's worries are unfounded and yet entirely warrant given his background. His fist clenches into the fabric of his pyjama bottoms as he rests his head against Aldwyn's. He hated those blasted muggles with a burning passion for everything they had forced his friend to live through.
"You listen to me, Aldwyn. My friends are all going to love you. How could they not? You are a wonderful person, sweet, kind, caring and vindictive beyond all measures. The perfect Slytherin. You won't say anything offensive because you do not have an offensive bone in your body, unless the person is asking for it. Besides Uncle Severus and Uncle Marvolo have been teaching you in all manners of Pureblood etiquette and I know that you would much rather get along with everyone than insult anyone."
Aldwyn's eyes flicker to Draco for a second before they focus back on his hands, lips upturning into a gentle smile as he nudges Draco with his shoulder. He laughs breathlessly when he is tugged into a warm embrace strong arms wrapping around his back as Draco releases his own relieved laughter. Aldwyn wipes his eyes subtle, carefully extracting himself from his friend, he hops of his bed in hopes of having a nice, relaxing hot bath before his party.
"I think I am going to have a quick bath, Draco. There is another bathroom just down the hall if you wish to do the same."
Aldwyn informs his friend, uncomfortable with the very prospect of being even partially undressed in front of another person besides his Papa and Father. He didn't know how he was going to handle changing into his school robes on the Hogwarts Express, but he supposed he could figure that out when the time drew nearer. He offers a smile when Draco nods his head, instantly walking out of the room in search of the bathroom to have his own bath drawn. Aldwyn waits until his door clicks shut before heading into his en suite. The house elves already preparing his bath for him.
Aldwyn steps out of the bath approximately 45 minutes later, muscles relaxed and feeling much more at ease with the idea of meeting so many new people all at once knowing that the parents of Draco's friends were also going to be in attendance. Many of whom were also predominant Lords and Ladies of their own families and within the Ministry. Aldwyn pokes his head out of the bathroom door, scanning his room for any signs of Draco before he slips into the room, towel held securely around his waist.
He is quick to slips on his black boxer briefs, dropping his towel onto the floor where Geeney is quick to snatch it up without so much as an utterance. He pulls on a pair of equally black dress trousers with deep creases trailing down the centre of legs. Slipping his arms into the soft material of a silver shirt (a colour he didn't think would look as good on himself as it did) with green detailing around the hem, cuffs and breast pocket. He buttons the shirt up quickly, casting another glance towards the door as he ensures they all line up correctly before he tucks himself in.
Aldwyn turns around to sit on his bed just as the door to his bedroom opens and Draco walks back into his room with a large smile on his face. He, much like Aldwyn, is dressed in black formal trousers, though he has coupled it with a pure white dress shirt which contrasts almost angelically with his pale skin and Malfoy blond hair. His feet are adorned with plain black socks, similar to the ones Aldwyn is slipping on his feet for he had left his boots and cloak on the opposite side of Aldwyn's bed. Drawing his gaze back to what he is doing Aldwyn ensures that his socks are sitting comfortable before looking around for his boots. Spotting them after a moment at the end of his bed, Aldwyn studies them once more. The Dragonhide boots were pure black with green laces criss-crossing their way up the ankles and shins. He would have to thank his Godparents for them once again he ponders as he slips the thick boots on, loving the way they seem to mould perfectly with his feet as he carefully ties them.
Standing to his full height, Aldwyn smiles as he casts a critical eye over himself making sure that all his clothes are sitting correctly on his slight frame and that he looks presentable enough to be introduced at Heir Prince-Slytherin to his Father's associates. He didn't want to embarrass either of his parents. After confirming that everything was perfect, Aldwyn glances across his bedroom, eyes widening as Draco slips a midnight blue cloak around his shoulders, the Malfoy family crest sitting proudly on his right breast. His hair was also slicked back in typical Malfoy fashion which draws a quiet chuckle from Aldwyn.
Turning back to his own cloak still sitting on his bedspread, Aldwyn stares at the Slytherin family crest stitched into the fabric with a warm smile; he quickly ponders if he could have a cloak commissioned to hold both of his family crests; the Prince one on the left-hand side while the Slytherin one sat on the right. He picks the cloak up and throws it around his shoulder's, fingers fiddling with the clasp for a few seconds before he manages to secure the fabric around his neck.
Aldwyn is just smoothing down the material, ensuring that it hangs around his ankles regally when a pair of boots enter his peripheral vision. Lifting his head, Aldwyn smiles up at Draco who is still attempting to sort out the cuffs of his shirt, tugging at them so they sit perfectly against his wrists. Aldwyn brushes a strand of hair away from his eyes and Draco frowns thoughtfully his own hand coming up to grab a strand of raven-hair, twirling it around his fingers as he takes in the pale blush dusting Aldwyn's cheeks at his seemingly intimate actions. He knew Aldwyn wasn't that comfortable with people being in his personal space all that much.
"We need to do something about your hair, Aldwyn. It is going to be constantly getting in your way when we are playing outside."
Aldwyn nods his head in agreement, taking a strand of hair in his hand and twisting it around the nimble digits as his features morph into an expression of deep contemplation. He liked his hair now that it was reaching his shoulders and much more easily manageable; it made him look that much more like his Papa which he loved.
"It's just… I don't know how I should have it. I want to look like a proper pureblood Heir for Father and Papa and I really don't want them to be disappointed in me or for me to embarrass them too much in front of their associates."
Aldwyn glances up when he feels something warm wrapping around his hand, which he hadn't realised is tugging harder than he thought on his hair. Draco untangles the strand from his fingers gentle before cradling the hand in his own.
"I am sure that no matter what you do Raven, your parents would and could never feel embarrassed by anything you do or say. They love you too much for that to happen and are simply happy that you feel safe with them."
Draco feels his heart clenching in his chest at the desperation he can hear in his friend's voice, knowing that Aldwyn is still fearful of being placed back with the Dursleys despite all the reassurance Marvolo, Severus and even Draco's own parents had given the younger boy. He knows that it is going to take time to even begin to mitigate Aldwyn's anxieties and fears; to stop the doubts Aldwyn holds of him being an unlovable freak. He can see the doubt clouding Aldwyn's eyes now and wishes beyond all hope that he could wipe such feelings away.
"How about this, Aldwyn. I will do your hair for you today and then if your parents approve of it, I will teach you how to do it yourself, that is if you like it yourself. If they do not approve of it them it will be my fault and I will tell them that. We will keep trying until we can find a suitable hairstyle for you."
Aldwyn stares up at his friend in both delight and shock, never had he had someone so willing to help him in such a way before. Not even the blood-traitor and Mudblood offered him assistance without the prospect of getting something in return. He nods his head slowly, pulling his hand free from Draco's grasp. Aldwyn makes his way across the room to his desk, picking up his hair brush, which his Father had insisted on purchasing for him when he had first decided to grow his hair out, and the leather tie which his Papa had given to him to use when he was working in the potions labs. Handing them over to Draco, Aldwyn wrings his hands when Draco walks around to stand behind him.
Though soon his nerves melt away, even if he is still a little anxious at having someone standing so close to him without him being able to keep an eye on what they are doing. He relaxes at the feeling of his brush gliding through his hair, gently detangling the still damp strands from his bath. His face heats up a minutely when he feels the addition of soft fingers brushing against his ears, his neck and forehead as Draco gathers his hair up in a single hand.
When the light tugging of his hair stops suddenly, and the heat near his back shifts away, Aldwyn turns around slowly watching silently as Draco places his brush back down onto his desk before facing his friend once more. His own cheeks dusting lightly to match his pseudo-younger brothers when he sees the Avada eyes sparkling with appreciation. Aldwyn almost skips with giddy energy over to Draco, grabbing the boy's hand in order to drag him into the bathroom so that he could get a good look at what Draco had done to his hair.
Aldwyn stands in front of his full-length mirror, eyes wide in disbelief as his eyes trail down his body taking in the complete visage of his reflection staring back at him. He grins widely as he twists and turns every which way trying to see the completed hairstyle. After a while of checking his attire, Aldwyn turns on his heels, dragging his startled friend into a tight hug arms wrapping around Draco's shoulders as returning arms wrap around his waist. He giggles.
"Thank you, Draco. I love it. I don't even really look like me anymore. Do you think Father and Papa are going to like it as well?"
A slight quiver of uncertainty is back in Aldwyn's voice, though he does his best to mask it. Draco frowns when he hears it and hugs his friend tighter to his chest, fingers playing with the strands of hair now neatly tied together. He was pretty proud of the plait he had managed to tie, if he was honest.
"I am sure that your parents are going to be extremely proud to call you their Son and Heir, Aldwyn. I am also positive that they are going to wish to show you off to all the other adults as soon as they look at you Raven. The pinnacle of a Pureblood Heir, that is what you are, and no one will think otherwise. They love you and will never stop loving you; they could never be embarrassed by you Aldwyn because everything that you do, everything that you say makes you, you and I don't think they would have it any other way… if they do then I will hex them for you."
Draco says with such confidence, such conviction that Aldwyn cannot help but giggle; an image of Draco pointing his wand at both Severus, dungeon bat of Hogwarts and Marvolo, the Dark Lord of Britain with determination. He feels himself relaxing minutely at Draco's cool words of reassurance however, enough to pull out of the embrace at least. Aldwyn places a quick kiss to Draco's cheek giggling once more at the flush which creeps across Draco's face.
"Thank you, Dragon. Now, I do believe we are expected downstairs any minute and I would hate for us to be late for our own party. So, why don't we head on down to the gardens."
Draco smirks at Aldwyn's change in demeanour. He bows at the waist mockingly sweeping a hand out as one of his feet cross behind the other, his other hand pressing against his chest over his heart never once breaking eye contact with Aldwyn.
"I do believe you are correct in this matter, Heir Prince-Slytherin. Shall we adjourn to the finer Slytherin gardens at your behest?"
Giggling softly Aldwyn returns the bow with a delicate curtsy trying not to fall over at the unfamiliar movements as he would never hear the end of it, not even due to his balance being of kilter by his attempts in curbing his laughter.
"We shall."
They both manage to keep their expressions blank for a few seconds before they almost collapse on the floor in joyous laughter; only able to keep their footing due to them leaning against each other for some much-needed support as their stomachs twinge with slight pain.
Down in the gardens many of the guest had already arrived and were milling around in small groups talking quietly amongst themselves as they wait patiently for the appearance of the pair they were invited here to see. They were particularly excited to lay their eyes on their Lord's Son and Heir.
Severus and Marvolo are standing near one of the tables piled high with gifts for their Son, each opting to dress in their own house colours, as many of the pureblood had chosen to do, each one adorned with embroideries of their family crests. Severus had opted for a deep purple robe which could almost be mistaken for black until the material caught the sunlight when he shifted. Whereas, Marvolo, like his Son had dressed in a deep emerald green cloak adorned with silver snakes slithering and twisting along the hem line.
They are standing alongside the Malfoy's holding glasses are sparkling pop in their hands waiting for their children to arrive; though truth be told, Marvolo was highly anticipating seeing the look on Aldwyn's face when he takes his first glance around the gardens. The elves had been hard at work from the early hours of the morning to ensure that everything was perfect for their young master's birthday and they had truly outdone themselves.
The Gazebo had been covered in green and silver streamers, each hung with extreme care around the outside of the wooden structure, twisting between the beams. Small fairy lights could be seen twinkling between the silken material. Inside the large gazebo, the elves had placed a large table now overflowing with presents all addressed to Aldwyn, Draco's friends had gifted the blond with his presents during the school term as his birthday had been in late June. The pile being a rainbow of colours ranging from bright reds, blues and even yellows to dark greens, black and silver.
Rows upon rows of tables had been set up along the perimeter of the designated area for the party to be held, all covered in black and silver table clothes accented in green, coated in an assortment of muggle and wizarding foods (Marvolo hadn't wanted Aldwyn to feel too overwhelmed from the onslaught of foods he had never seen let alone tried before), platters and spreads which had the kitchen house elves up from the exceedingly early hours of the morning preparing and ensuring that everything was going to be perfect for Aldwyn.
Though the main attraction within the general vicinity of their guests was a large 5-layer birthday cake which only the head kitchen elf had the authorisation to bake and decorate; apparently Head Elf Sandy was very protective of his cakes, especially birthday cakes. The cake itself was iced in deep purple buttercream, Aldwyn's favourite colour, with an assortment of flowers, all of which had been designed with their family crests in mind. The Slytherin crest being situated at the top of the cake, flanked by both the Prince and Malfoy crests. It was a true work of art.
The fountain, which incorporated a statue of Salazar Slytherin, had been covered in various twinkling lights making silver and green sparks to dance gracefully against the marble ornament, glistening on the waters surface which is flowing steadily creating a soothing atmosphere as the sounds wash over their company, brushing and melding with the quiet murmurs.
A sharp gasp halts the conversation between Marvolo, Severus and the Malfoy family, turning around the four offer small smiles to Draco and Aldwyn whose eyes are darting around the garden trying to take in as much of the setting as they can. Aldwyn completely freezes at the sight, tears coming to his eyes when he feels Draco squeezing his hand comfortingly, most likely guessing where his thoughts were beginning to head. Carefully, tugging Aldwyn forward, Draco leads his mesmerised friend closer to their parents.
"Happy birthday, Snakelet. Happy belated birthday, Draco."
Severus greets the approaching children with a smile, eyes softening at the look on his Son's face. The pair manage to tear their gaze away from the decorations in order to grin up at the potions master.
"Happy birthday, Snakelet. You as well, Draco."
Marvolo ruffles Aldwyn's hair lightly, being mindful of his Son's meticulously neat hairstyle he is sporting, it makes his Son look even more regal than usual which he hadn't thought possible.
"Thank you, Papa, Father. The gardens look fantastic!"
Aldwyn happily accepts the hugs his parents tug him into, sighing contentedly as he buries deeper into their shared warmth, allowing him a moment to regain his composure before he, reluctantly, pulls away seen as his hand is still being gripped by Draco.
"Yes, thank you for including me, Uncle Severus, Uncle Marvolo. I appreciate the efforts you have put into celebrating with us today."
Draco murmurs with a short bow, showing his gratitude to the two people he had come to see as pseudo uncles if not Godfathers to him.
"You are most welcome, Draco."
Severus ruffles Draco's hair, chuckling when his Godson squeaks in protest, he had always been quite particular about his hair and Severus loved winding the young Malfoy Heir up about it whenever he had the chance. Draco acted so much like his Father at times, it was almost scary. He turns to his partner, smirk pulling at the corners of his lips when he spies the deeply hidden surprise shining in brown eyes.
"Uncle?"
Draco can feel his face heating up at the whispered question, realising belatedly that he had indeed called the Dark Lord his 'Uncle', he had never done that out loud before. Taking a deep breath, Draco looks into the deep brown eyes of Aldwyn's Father offering up a shy smile when he feels Aldwyn squeezing his hand in encouragement.
"Well, you are practically married to Uncle Severus, even though you are technically only courting still. We all know that you are going to be bonded in the future. So that would make you my Uncle as well. I mean it is only fair seen as Aldwyn calls both my parents Aunt and Uncle. Besides, I didn't think you would appreciate me calling you Aunt…."
"It is an honour, Draco. Thank you."
Marvolo mutters, pressing a soft kiss to the shocked Malfoy Heir's forehead, he chuckles at the cheeky remark at the end and repeats the gesture to his Son whose smile has stretched across his cheeks, green eyes sparkling with mischief when he too spots the look of bewilderment Lord and Lady Malfoy shot towards his Father. Clearly, they hadn't expected their Lord to be so lenient with anyone besides his own partner and Son. Marvolo's smirk widens causing Severus to shake his head in amusement, a quiet murmur reaching Marvolo's ears earning the potions master a light cuff round the back of his head by a highly unamused Dark Lord.
"And people say children are immature."
Deciding to turn the conversation back to the two children everyone was there to celebrate with, Severus studies Aldwyn and finally notices the tight plait which his Son is happily sporting. He wonders briefly if one of the house elves had offered to style the strands in such a way, Aldwyn was very protective of his lengthening hair after all. He feels pride swell in his chest when he notices the hair tie, which he had gifted his Son being used outside the potion's lab as well.
"Snakelet, who tied your hair for you? It looks magnificent, very regal, much like the true Heir of one of the most Prestigious Households of the wizarding world. You are using the tie I gave you."
Aldwyn preens when he hears the prideful undertones in his Papa's voice and feels himself choking up a fraction as some of his worries are put to rest knowing now that Severus is far from embarrassed by his appearance. His Papa is even touched that he had chosen to put his small gift to such good use.
"Thank you, Papa. I really like it. Draco did it for me!"
Aldwyn grins over at Draco who returns the gesture with a bright smile of his own, going so far as to give his friend two thumbs up. He pulls the end of the plait over his shoulder, fingers stroking through the loose strands at the end absently, eyes misting. He glances away from Draco back up to his parents who are still smiling at him, expressions completely open and soft. Aldwyn throws himself at his Father and Papa, allowing their arms to wrap around him in another hug before turning to embrace his Godparents before he is ushered away. Draco waves over his shoulder as he takes Aldwyn's hand once again leading his friend over towards the group of children who seemed to be having a gathering all of their own. However, before they were even halfway towards the children, a voice calls out to them.
"Aldwyn! Draco!"
Turning sharply on his heels, Aldwyn releases Draco's hand as his green eyes lock onto the person who had gained their attention. A bright smile takes hold as Aldwyn is quick to make his way towards the large men giggling happily when he is immediately lifted into a warm and familiar embrace from Bill Weasley. Wrapping his arms and legs around the older wizard, Aldwyn glances over Bill's shoulder grinning at Charlie who places a hand on his head in greeting.
Hello, Bill, Charlie. I see you have finally managed to escape the clutches of the evil old codger. How was your breakfast at Hogwarts?"
Bill scrunches his nose up in distaste drawing a short laugh from the young wizard. Settling Aldwyn comfortably on his hip, the child was still much too light for a child of eleven, as he shakes his head in exasperation. His expression mimicked perfectly by Charlie who moves to stand next to his brother.
"It was pretty amusing at first, what with the delivery of the Daily Prophet and everything, well done on that by the way Parum Anguis. Professor McGonagall even grilled your Papa about you and your Father, she was quite offended that Severus didn't inform her the second he entered into a romantic relationship. However, it quickly went down hill once Severus left, everyone started talking about lesson plans and other boring things."
Bill whines pathetically, cuddling Aldwyn closer as he chuckles at the Weasley's plight. Draco snickers along with them from his place on the floor glad that he hadn't been subjected to such trial matters. Charlie nods his head in agreement, eyes shining with mirth at the memory of Severus' face when Minerva had begun to question him about his personal life away from his teaching profession. If he hadn't been mistaken, many of their colleagues thought it impossible for Severus to have a life away from Hogwarts, if their expressions of disbelief and incredulity were anything to go by. He was looking forward to seeing their reactions when Aldwyn is called up for his sorting.
"Poor Papa."
Aldwyn laments, curbing his chuckles, he knew how much his Papa valued his privacy and how uncomfortable Professor McGonagall's questions must have made him.
"Poor Severus indeed, but enough about us and our very boring meeting this morning. How are you, Parum Anguis? Happy birthday, to you as well, Draco."
"I am well, thank you Bill and thank you."
"Yes, Happy birthday, Aldwyn, Draco."
"Thank you Weasleys."
"Oh, come on, Little Malfoy, you are allowed to use our first names, you know."
Aldwyn giggles once again, looking at the expression on Draco's face at even the thought of referring to any Weasley by their given name. he realises that Draco hadn't spent as much time with Bill and Charlie as he had before today, and even when he had been in their, mostly Bill's, company he hadn't interacted with them much.
"Are the two of you staying after the party? Have you finished moving into the Manor yet?"
"All moved and unpacked, Aldwyn. I am afraid to say that you are not going to be rid of us that easily. We are all settled, aren't we Charlie?"
"Yup, you are going to be seeing a lot more of us now, Aldwyn and of course, we are staying after the party, wouldn't want to leave you all alone with those boring adults now, would we?"
Aldwyn laughs joyously, eyes sparkling with mirth and he wonders for a second what his Papa and Father, let alone the Malfoy's would say if they ever found out that they had been called 'boring adults'. A pout comes to his lips when Bill gives him one final hug and places him back on his feet, though his smile returns when Bill and Charlie each place a soft kiss to his forehead. Turning Aldwyn around gently, Bill gestures for Draco to lead the younger boy towards the group of children still milling around conversing just a short distance away. Spying the slightly apprehensive look crossing Aldwyn's features, Bill crouches down, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"We will speak with you later, Aldwyn. Go have fun, I am sure they are going to adore you."
Nodding his head, Aldwyn allows Draco to begin leading him towards the Slytherin children once again, the small group not seeming to have noticed the arrival of their friend just yet, nor the birthday boys of the day which Aldwyn finds strange. Weren't Slytherin's supposed to be cunning and sneaky? Weren't they supposed to be aware of their surroundings more than others?
As Draco moves excitedly towards his friends, some of whom he hadn't seen since the end of term feast at the beginning of summer, he keeps a firm grip on Aldwyn's hand as a sign of protection or comfort. Aldwyn flinches minutely when his ears are suddenly assaulted with various shouts of greetings and congratulations while Draco is pulled into conversation with his housemates. Aldwyn, on the other hand, has never felt so awkward. He remains on the outside of the group, watching on the side lines as the boisterous children interact with each other warily. A fearful glint shines in his eyes as a boy with sandy blond hair jumps on Draco's back, dislodging their hands quite forcefully.
Aldwyn shrinks into himself, cautiously taking a step away from the Slytherin's, mind flying back to the conversation he had held with Draco in his bedroom. He is afraid that these children won't like him, that he will be ostracized because he hadn't been in their cliché from the very beginning. That they would see him as an outsider and despise him. His hands begin to shake as his anxieties rise and he wants nothing more than to turn on his heels and escape to the comforting arms of his parents. He didn't want to encroach on their seemingly tight friendship with his unwanted presence; didn't want these children to begin diving on him or slinging their arms around his shoulders.
His thoughts continue to spiral downwards, and his fingers clench in the fabric of his robes as he takes another few steps backwards. He is so caught up in his fears that he doesn't notice the worried glances of Bill or Charlie; the concerned gazes of his parents, nor of the Malfoy's each of whom are prepared to step in if he relapses. He can feel his breath picking up, as his chest tightens almost painfully. That is until he feels a hesitant, gentle tap on his shoulder.
Author's Note
A big hello and thank you to everyone who have followed this story from the very beginning, from when it was under the name 'To Disguise A Disguise' and I hope that you will all continue to enjoy it in the future as well! So, this is just a quick note to say that the chapters for this fanfiction are almost caught up to the chapters from the original version of the story. Hurray! I am so pleased that it has only taken me a couple of months to rewrite this all, even when I am also writing the beginnings of another Harry Potter fanfiction (maybe keep an eye out for that one when I release it sometime in the near future? Maybe?).
Thank you all so much! I am grateful to you all as a Writer is only as good as those who read!