A/N: Sorry this story took so long, but it just kept getting longer and longer. Hopefully that will make up for the delay!

Chapter Fifteen

Severus was pulled from unconsciousness to the sound of weak, pained whimpers. He pulled himself upright and staggered to the bed. Harry was lying prone. His eyes were open and drenched with tears. His body spasmed as he watched and another whimper escaped. Severus rushed to the boy's side and gently touched his head. Harry cried out at the contact; everything hurt!

"It'll be alright, Harry." Severus promised. "I'll be right back. I'm going to get you potions to make you feel better."

He turned and ran from the room. He knew what was wrong. Without Draco there, the transformation was less smooth, causing muscle strain and cramps as Harry's body was forced to age at a rapid pace. Luckily he had potions on hand to help with that. He opened his cupboard and found the vials he needed and hurried back to his suffering child.

"Here, Harry. Take these."

The boy was crying and gasping, but manage to open his mouth. Severus poured the potions in and helped him swallow by rubbing gently at the clenched throat. As soon as the potions were ingested, Harry relaxed and let out a pained sigh. Severus stroked his hair and murmured softly that it was alright, that it was over.

It took a good fifteen minutes before Harry felt well enough to lift his arms, asking to be held. Severus complied instantly and scooped him up. Harry lay his head down on his shoulder and wrapped his arms around his Dad's neck and his legs around Severus' waist. "Let's get you to Madam Pomfrey." Severus said and strode from the room. He knew the floo would aggravate Harry's still aching body, so he entered the castle corridors. Harry didn't speak, but at least he had stopped crying.

"You're late." Pomfrey scolded when Severus entered the Hospital Wing.

"He had a hard time of it." Severus told her.

She nodded knowingly and gestured for Severus to lay the boy out on the bed. He did so, but Harry wouldn't release his hand. The boy clutched at it and hid his face against his Dad's forearm. Pomfrey talked softly so as not to frighten the boy more and quickly ran her tests. She tisked at the damage she found and began to cast healing charms to finish the job the potions had started.

"There." She said with satisfaction a good half hour later. "He should feel good as new, though I am still worried about his weight and height. He's still well below average. He's only grown two inches and is only two and a half pounds heavier."

"If he's mimicking his growth and weight of when he was this age there may be nothing we can do about it." Severus said as he picked Harry up again. "Are you feeling better, Harry?"

The boy nodded, his wild black hair tickling Severus' neck.

"Tell Madam Pomfrey thank you." He ordered.

Harry lifted his head and waved with a shy smile. Pomfrey accepted the gesture as enough, "You're quite welcome, Harry. If you need anything else, don't be afraid to come to me. Now here's your treat for being such a good boy."

Harry accepted the chocolate, but didn't eat it. Severus inclined his head and went to her office to floo back to his rooms. Remus was lying on the couch and looked much worse for wear. The werewolf smiled at them, though his eyes were shadowed with pain. Harry gasped and wiggled until Severus put him down. The boy immediately ran over to the werewolf's side.

"You're hurt." Harry said softly, eyes bright behind his glasses with worry.

"Your dad will patch me up." Remus assured the boy and ruffled his hair.

"Why don't you order us breakfast, Harry, while I tend to Remus?"

Harry nodded and ran to the kitchen. Severus went to his lab and returned shortly with several potions, all of which Remus drank quickly while Severus told him about Harry's morning. Remus put the last vial down and his eyes were cloudy with concern. "Draco must have gone through the same. Do you think Narcissa…"

"She would get him medical attention." Severus brushed off that worry. "But we need to find them."

Remus nodded and made to get up, but fell back limply. His amber eyes fell on the Potion Master full of suspicion. Severus smiled darkly, "Yes, you just ingested a mild sleeping draught. You will feel better when you wake." Remus growled, but was asleep before he could say anything.

"Dad, breakfast is ready." Harry said from the doorway. Severus nodded and went to eat.

They were halfway through the meal before Harry spoke again. "If Moony is sleeping, who will watch me?"

"You are eight years old now. I'm sure you will be fine on your own for a couple hours. Remus will wake before lunch."

"Okay." Harry smiled gratefully at not being given to a stranger.

"If you need anything, you know how to use the floo. Just call 'Potions classroom'."

"Yes, Dad."

Severus swished his wand and summoned books to him. They were introductions to the four main subjects Hogwarts offered: Potions, Defense, Charms, and Transfiguration. "Start studying these while you wait for Remus."

"I will." Harry promised and took the books. "Have a good day."

Severus nodded and stood. He was just at the door when Harry's voice came to him. It was small and very sad. "Dad, when will Ray come back?"

"I don't know. We're still looking for him." Severus said and left him with the sleeping Wolf.

Harry studied the books by the fireplace. He didn't want to leave it in case Ray came back. Remus slept for hours and Harry got hungry so he went to the kitchen and ordered lunch. Ray had taught him that if you stood in the kitchen and called for an elf one would appear. He did so and placed his order. He sat silently at the table alone, his eyes staring at the chair Ray would have sat in.

A huge ache rose in his chest. Ray had promised to stay with him and never leave. Harry knew it wasn't Ray's fault that he was stolen away by Mrs. Malfoy. Mrs. Malfoy took him away because Harry was a worthless freak. The voices of the Dursleys rose in his mind, taunting and teasing him. His new Dad told him that he was good, but what if he was wrong? What if he just hasn't seen the badness in him yet? Maybe Mrs. Malfoy had finally seen it.

The food appeared and Harry ate half of it mechanically. He understood now. Yes, he finally got it. He was a worthless freak and he didn't deserve to be loved. Ray was taken away for his own good. And his Dad would leave too once he saw the truth. He'd be alone again. Maybe even sent back to the Dursleys where he belonged, where he would be punished.

Harry shook his head as tears spilled down his pale face. He didn't want to believe it, but couldn't pretend any longer. He shoved out of his chair and ran into his room to hide under the bed. He cried silently wishing his Dad would get it over with and send him away, wishing he'd come home and reassure him. He was so confused, it hurt!

Draco screamed and threw the glass orb by his bed against the wall. It shattered. He clutched at his chest and clenched his eyes shut to push away the tears. Harry needed him! He could feel it! And his mother wouldn't take him back until he learned all his lessons perfectly! He strode to the book shelf and grabbed the books there. He had to hurry up!

"Hold on, Baby. I'm coming back. I promise I'm coming back." He whispered and began to memorize the books on his family history and politics.

Severus came back to his quarters after dinner and frowned when he saw Remus still asleep on the couch. "Harry!" He called, but got no answer. Heart in his throat, he hurried through the kitchen and into the playroom. Harry wasn't there. He ran to the bedroom next, but again he couldn't find the eight year old. He checked every room and still no sign of the boy.

"Severus?" Remus asked groggily, woken by Severus rushing toward the fire.

"How long have you been asleep?" The Potions Master demanded, spinning around to face him.

"I don't know." Remus frowned. "What's wrong?"

"I can't find Harry."

"What!" Remus jumped to his feet and took a few sniffs of the air. Severus sneered at him in disgust, but he ignored it. "He's here."

Severus followed the werewolf silently and frowned when he led him to the boys' bedroom. "I already looked in there." He snapped impatiently.

Remus opened the door and walked in. He sniffed once and then got on his hands and knees, "Harry? Come out."

The boy crawled out reluctantly and stood before them, head bowed submissively. Severus felt his anger drain away when he saw the posture. Something had happened to erase most of the progress they had made with Harry. He knew it had to be due mostly to Draco's absence, but Harry had been coping better than this when he left this morning to teach class.

"Harry? Why didn't you come out when I called?" He asked softly.

Harry shook his head mutely.

"What's the matter, pup? Are you hurt?" Remus reached out to him and Harry flinched back. Remus pulled back his hand sorrowfully.

"Have you eaten?" Severus asked, testing the child. His suspicions were proven correct when Harry remained silent. "Harry…" He knelt and reached slowly for the boy. Green eyes met his and filled with tears as Harry was pulled forward into a hug. The boy clung to Severus, but still would not speak. "It's alright. You don't have to talk if you don't want to. Come. Let's all eat together."

Narcissa came into her son's room to tuck him in. Draco was sitting on his bed with books all around him. She sighed. She had been scared to death when he woke up that morning in severe pain. Not even the healer's reassurance that he was fine made her feel better so she canceled all her son's lessons for the day so he could rest. She had not been happy to find him studying intently and he still hadn't stopped. At least he was eating.

"Yes, Mother?" Draco asked, his face blank.

She sighed. Draco had been absolutely polite to her since she had taken him away. He followed all the pureblood etiquettes to the letter and that hurt. She missed his smiles; missed seeing his eyes heat up with love and temper. She wanted her son to forgive her, but that was not going to happen anytime soon. But she didn't regret what she had done. She would do whatever was necessary to protect her son. And allowing him to have an unhealthy attachment and obsession for the boy who lived was definitely unacceptable.

"Mother?" Draco said again, impatience creeping into his voice.

"It's time for bed, Draco." She said evenly.

He nodded once, "As soon as I finish this, I will go to bed."

"Now." She said firmly.

"No." He answered casually and turned his eyes back to the book. "If that is all?"

"Yes, Draco. That is all." Narcissa said tiredly and left her only son to his studies.

Three days passed and Harry never spoke a word and flinched when anyone touched him. Severus and Remus did all they could to help the boy, but without knowing what was wrong it was impossible. Severus was so desperate he resorted to trying Legimency, but Harry's powerful magic ejected him immediately. The boy seemed to have been unconscious of the mental invasion and Severus was glad for that. He didn't think he could stand Harry pulling even more away from him.

Draco was having a hard time as well. It took all his strength to focus when Harry's pain was constantly washing over him, but he remained cold and got his work done. Narcissa was falling into despair as her son's anger refused to shrink. Eventually, she had no choice but to keep her promise. Draco had done all his lessons perfectly and was much further ahead than when he had been eight the first time. Narcissa surrendered and told Draco she'd take him to visit his Dad and Harry tomorrow.

Harry was eating breakfast when he heard the fire flare in the next room. He dropped his fork and ran. He had just entered the sitting room when Draco crashed into him, laughing. They fell to the floor in a tangle of legs. Harry was shocked as he felt his best friend holding him tight. He could hardly breathe and it had nothing to do with the arms wrapped around him. He was happy, confused, and sad. He loved Draco and really missed him. But he knew he didn't deserve to be happy and that Draco would only leave him again.

"Don't cry, Baby." Draco soothed as he sat, pulling Harry against his chest. He rocked the smaller boy slowly. "I'm here now."

Harry lifted his head from Draco shoulder, feeling guilty at how much he wanted the blonde to stay with him. He looked up at Mrs. Malfoy, he knew she had seen the truth about him. The displeasure on her face as she looked back confirmed it. She didn't want her son tainted.

"Mother. Why don't you go and talk with Moony?" Draco asked in a cold voice.

"Yes." Remus shook himself from his shock. "Boys, why don't you go play in the playroom?"

Draco nodded reluctantly. He had a plan and in order for it to work he had to be alone in the sitting room. Well, he figured he'd just have to be patient. "Come on, Harry."

He stood and tugged Harry after him by the hand. The smaller boy followed with his head bowed submissively. They entered the play room and Draco spun around to grab Harry by the shoulders.

"Baby, look at me." Harry didn't so he took his hands from his shoulders and placed them gently on Harry's jaw, lifting his face. "I didn't want to leave you. Mother, took me away. She tricked me. But I'm back now and I won't ever leave again. I'll make sure of it."

"You should go." Harry said hoarsely. It had been days since he had spoken. His green eyes were filled with a deep sorrow and Draco's breathing got tight as he felt his friend's pain. "You shouldn't be around me, Ray. You're mother's right."

"Harry… Baby…" Draco stared at the tearful emerald pools before him and he fought against his own tears. "I love you. We're best friends. Being away from you isn't good at all. It makes me sad and it hurts really bad. Do you really want me to hurt? Don't you like me with you anymore? I said I was sorry."

"No!" Harry threw his arms around the blonde and began to cry. "No, Ray! That's not it at all! There's something wrong with me and if you stay you'll only go bad too. Everyone leaves me, Ray. My parents and then the Dursleys and then you. It's how it should be. I don't deserve to be happy."

"That's not true at all!" Draco pulled away and shoved Harry to the ground. His eyes were bright with rage. "I thought you realized that the Dursleys were a bunch of big, fat liars! That they hurt you no matter what you did and it wasn't right!"

"I don't know." Harry shook his head helplessly. "It's not fair that they punish me even if I do what they ask, but… But maybe they don't need a reason. Maybe I need to be punished because… because I'm bad. Not cause of what I do, but what… what I am."

"That's stupid, Harry!" Draco spat. "You're smarter than that!" His anger drained away as Harry curled into a ball and began to cry. He felt confusion and hopeless pain. He hadn't meant to hurt Harry more. He knelt and pulled Harry back into a gentle hug. "I'm sorry I left you. That was wrong. I won't let it happen again, okay? We'll make this better together."

"I love you, Ray." Harry smiled and held back tight. "I missed you so much."

"I missed you too." Draco grinned. "Now let's play!"

Harry smiled and followed his friend to the toy chest.

Severus stepped into his rooms with a cold, blank face. He had been struck speechless when Remus fire-called him to tell him Narcissa had returned with Draco. He had dismissed his class and walked back to his rooms to give himself time to think. As much as he wanted to lash out at the woman and bruise her face, he needed to make sure she stayed.

"Severus." Remus said solemnly as he entered. He was sitting on the couch next to Narcissa, who didn't so much as incline her head at his appearance.

"Remus." Severus answered coolly and turned hard eyes on his friend. "Narcissa."

"Harry and Draco are playing in their playroom. Maybe I should go check on them?" Remus offered.

"Yes. Please do." Severus smiled silkily.

Remus needed no further encouragement and hurried from the room. Severus stared at Narcissa. The woman stared back. Neither spoke for several long minutes. Severus broke their eye contact first and went to the cabinet where he had brandy and glasses. He poured two and took them over to his friend. Narcissa accepted the drink, but didn't lift it to her lips. Severus smirked; was she afraid he'd poison her?

"How are Draco's lessons progressing?" He asked casually.

"Very well." Narcissa answered easily.

"I am glad." He took a sip. "May I ask why you left with your son?"

"You know why." Narcissa glared icily. "He's obsessed with that boy. It's unhealthy and he was going into habits that are unbecoming of the Lord Malfoy."

"And he has improved?" Severus asked with a sneer. Narcissa said nothing and that told him he was right in believing Draco had not gotten better by isolating him from Harry. The sound of Draco chatting happily and Harry's giggles reached their ears. Remus shouted breakfast orders and the sound of utensils on plates interrupted the happy conversation. "Would you care to join them?" Severus asked the woman across from him.

"No." Narcissa said shortly and took a large mouthful of her drink. She knew that if she went to sit with them, the happy atmosphere would disappear.

"Narcissa…" Severus began.

"No, Severus." She set the drink down hard. "It is difficult for him. And that is my fault. I shouldn't have let you talk me into allowing Draco to stay. That boy in there is bending my sons mind, turning him into a slave. I won't change my mind. He may stay the night, we will leave tomorrow morning."

"Narcissa, you're being stupid." Severus said in a soft tone. "Draco is not a slave. Nor does he think like one. Nothing has changed in your son except that he cares deeply for his friend. That kind of care is not a weakness, but a strength."

"It's a vulnerability." She snapped.

"They need each other. They support each other." Severus corrected.

"Not true." She smiled grimly. "Harry needs Draco, not the other way around. Harry does nothing, but distracts and weakens Draco. For my son, the world revolves around that boy. It's wrong, Severus. I won't allow my son to be used or tamed. And that's what you've done. He will come to accept Harry's absence in his life. It will just take time."

"You are making a mistake and destroying both of those boys." Severus spat hatefully. "I never thought you unintelligent and willfully blind, Narcissa. Open your eyes."

"They are open." She said coldly. "I see what you are doing, my old friend."

"What's that?" He snapped.

"You are sacrificing my son for Harry. And while I can understand the strength of the love a parent has for their child, I won't allow you to break Draco just so Harry survives. Horrible things happened to him. It shouldn't have, but we can't change the past. Harry's dead, Severus. You are just prolonging his death and hurting yourself in the process. I won't allow Draco to be pulled under as well."

"Get out." Severus stood. Darkness seemed to roll off of him in his rage. "Now, Narcissa."

"No. I will not leave my son." She answered calmly. "If you truly wish me gone, I will take Draco with me. You don't want to cut Harry's visit with his friend short, do you?"

Their glasses exploded and the spy for Voldemort said in a voice that sent terror running through her, "You will regret this." He turned and strode from his quarters, slamming the door behind him. Narcissa took a shaky breath and folded her cold hands in her lap. She knew she had gone too far by predicting Harry's death, but it was the truth.

The boy was raped. Her eyes closed in horror at the mere thought. She wasn't unsympathetic, but there was nothing she or anyone else could do. There was no recovering from such violation or torment. Harry's life had been taken and if she didn't do something Draco would die along side of the Boy-Who-Once-Lived.

"Dad!" Draco yelled and ran to Severus who just walked into the kitchen.

Severus placed his hands around the boy's shoulders and pressed him to his chest. The boy's head was about four or five inches above his waist, much taller than Harry. "Hello, Draco."

"What are we having for dinner?" He grinned up at the man. "Something special to celebrate my return?"

"Of course." Severus sniffed and pushed the boy back to his seat by Harry. "I've already had a word with the elves."

Draco laughed and Harry's lips turned up into a soft smile. Severus felt relief and happiness rush through him at the expression on the smaller boy. It had been too long since Harry looked so relaxed and cheerful. He looked to Narcissa to see if this improvement in both boys would soften her decision, but she sitting silently by Remus, ignoring everyone around her as much as they were ignoring her.

Severus took his seat and listened to the boys talk happily about some game Draco made. Harry's voice was returned to them and Severus felt himself harden with resolve. He couldn't let Narcissa take her son away. Remus caught his gaze and told him he agreed and would help. Severus nodded once.

"You ready?" Draco whispered.

"Yeah." Harry answered squinting hard at the orb by their bed. "I think so."

It had been his job to make sure the alarms on their room to tell Severus and Narcissa if they were awake were no longer working. Harry had been reading into magical theory, but had not practical experience to draw from. He just hoped wishing really hard, like he had to get Draco desert, would work. The blonde nodded at him and opened their door. The hall was silent. Everyone was in bed asleep. The trick was going to be getting past Remus, who was on the sitting room couch.

Draco crept slowly across the kitchen and hesitated in the doorway. Harry clutched at his shirt at the small of his back and Draco felt his nerves disappear. He could do this. For Harry. He felt a smile twist his lips, glad his best friend trusted him enough to go along with his plan. It had taken a little bit of convincing because Harry didn't want to leave their Dad, but Draco promised they would see Severus again soon. They just had to get away from his mother, then they could have their Dad come and get them and help hide them away from her.

"Wish him to sleep." He whispered and Harry obediently scrunched his face up in concentration. Draco laughed quietly, thinking Harry looked silly like that. The green-eyed boy stuck his tongue out at his friend, grinning back. Draco grabbed his hand, "Alright. Let's go."

"Why do you think Draco's back?" Goyle asked after hearing from Ron the news.

"I don't now." The redheaded Gryffindor shrugged. He went to clear the map, but Crabbe stopped him.

"Wait! Look!"

"What are they doing?" Goyle frowned as he watched the two dots creep out of the bedroom, across the kitchen, and then slowly across the sitting room.

"Looks like they're leaving Snape's rooms." Crabbe was shocked. That was dangerous.

"Maybe they're hungry." Ron shook his head with a smile. "I'm not surprised that their troublemakers even at this age."

"Come on! We have to get to them." Goyle was already moving to the door. "It's dangerous for them to be walking around. Who knows who will see or what they'll do."

"Yeah." Ron hurried after him. "And no one is supposed to know Harry's shrunk too."

"He's not shrunk, just younger." Crabbe pointed out.

"Whatever!" Ron rolled his eyes. "Go faster, you big oaf!"

"Are you sure you know where we are?" Harry asked softly. There was no worry in his voice. Just curiosity. Fear couldn't touch him as long as the blonde was holding his hand.

"I think so. It's so dark!" Draco puffed his hair out of his face and glared at the corridor. He was sure this was the way to the Entrance Hall! Harry giggled at him and brought up his hands, tangling his fingers in the long blond strands. The hair became smooth and brushed, then slowly wrapped in a loose, simple braid. Draco smiled sweetly and captured Harry's hand again, "Thanks."

Harry opened his mouth to say something, but nothing came out as his green eyes looked over Draco's head and widened with fear. Draco spun around, tugging his smaller friend behind him. Large shadows loomed before them and he opened his mouth to scream, but he was so afraid that his throat had closed in on itself.

"Draco!" A deep voice called. "Are you alright? What are you doing out here?"

A tall, muscular blonde came into the light of the torch that hung above his and Harry's head. Draco relaxed, recognizing him. He was one of the Slytherins he had met to reassure them he was okay. And one of the ones that seemed so familiar and safe to him. "You scared me! Make some noise next time!" He snapped at the older, bigger boy.

But his smaller size didn't seem to hinder his ability to cow the Slytherin. The blonde stilled and smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, Draco."

"Harry!" Ron came up and knelt before Draco, his attention on the smaller boy hiding behind his back. "Are you okay? Why did you leave Snape's rooms?" He reached for his friend, to see him, but Harry flinched away and whimpered.

"Leave him alone!" Draco ordered sharply and then sneered. "Obviously he doesn't want you to touch him."

Ron scowled and opened his mouth, but Crabbe put a hand on his shoulder and shook his head. That would have pissed the redhead off more except he could tell the Slytherin didn't mean it as an order. It was just advice. Grumbling, he stood and allowed the Slytherins to talk to their Prince, but his eyes never left Harry.

"What are you doing, Draco?" Crabbe asked.

"Escaping. My mother is being difficult. We're going to hide away and then let only Dad know where we are. Maybe Moony too. You'll help us by getting us to the Entrance Hall and then you'll tell no one you saw us."

"Dad?" Ron snorted in laughter. Crabbe and Goyle ignored him.

"It's dangerous…" Goyle began.

"We'll be careful." Draco shrugged. "I have to do something or else she'll take me from Harry again."

"I'm surprise you care so much, Malfoy." Ron glared at the child.

"Who are you?" Draco asked icily. "What are you doing here? It's obvious no one wants you around."

"Shut up! Harry wants me around! I'm his best mate!" Ron yelled hotly.

"He's mine!" Draco yelled furiously. "Tell him, Baby! Tell him you want him to leave!"

Harry was struck mute, though. All the yelling and the strangers, two of whom reminded him of his Uncle, were too much for him and his voice was lost. But he did want the strangers to go and if he could get one to leave he would. There was no way he wanted to go with the redheaded stranger! He wanted Draco! So Harry leaned passed Draco far enough to kiss his cheek and then darted back behind him. Draco grinned triumphantly.

"Bye, bye." He gave a little wave at the shocked Gryffindor.

Crabbe gently caught Ron's arm and pulled him a bit away as Goyle worked out the details for Draco's little escape.

"I'm not leaving you two alone with Harry!" Ron said hotly.

"I know." Crabbe shrugged. "I just think that since Harry doesn't remember you, you should stay quiet. You'll only upset him and you don't want him to have his first memories of you as bad ones."

"How come Malfoy knows you two?"

"We told you Snape and Mrs. Malfoy brought him to us before they supposedly left the school. We were introduced then."

Ron crossed his arms petulantly, but nodded that he would be quiet. Crabbe gave a small smile and went back to his friend and leader. Goyle was nodding and Draco was giving orders. Crabbe shook his head ruefully. Some things never changed. Then his eyes slid to the obviously frightened child Draco was protecting. Maybe some things did change. He had never thought to see that vulnerable and helpless expression on Harry Potter's face.

"Well? What are you waiting for? Get moving!" Draco said haughtily, sticking his nose in the air.

Unlike Draco, the three teens knew that if they left Hogwarts' grounds the wards would record them leaving. But not if they used one of the underground passages. Goyle had seen the map enough times to know that there were some and briefly consulting Ron, they decided to use the one that led to Honeydukes.

The five of them made their way silently to the humpbacked, one-eyed witch. Ron said the password and they entered the dark passage. Harry whimpered and Draco glared at Crabbe until the teen made a light. Harry relaxed as soon as he could see and he followed Draco closely. He wouldn't allow any of the strange boys at his back so he came last and the three teens led the way.

Honeydukes owner did not wake as the teens crept out of his cellar and into the store itself. The teens froze as they suddenly realized that they had come to a dead end. They couldn't open the front door without the alarm going off and casting a spell at it to try and disconnect it would make it go off as well. They looked at each other feeling stupid for not thinking ahead.

"What's the hold up?" Draco demanded in a stage-whisper.

Ron glared at him, but it was Goyle who spoke. "There's an alarm on the door. We can't get out."

"No problem." Draco huffed and turned to Harry expectantly.

Crabbe opened his mouth to warn him not to cast magic, but was struck dumb as the small boy closed his eyes. Magic rippled out of him. It was so strong and pure that the three teens could literally feel it washing through them like a sheet of ice cold water. It passed fast, though, and the door opened silently. Green eyes opened and Harry leaned tiredly into Draco's embrace.

"We need to go somewhere to rest." Draco decided, looking to Goyle for answers. But the teens were struck dumb and couldn't move. Draco sniffed in disdain and helped Harry out of the store. As soon as the two children were out of sight, the teens came back to themselves and hurried after them.

"You'll be recognized anywhere here." Crabbe told Draco with a frown.

"There's the Shrieking Shack." Ron offered. "That's empty."

"Alright." Draco nodded absently. His attention was on his friend who was beginning to stumble from exhaustion.

"I'll carry him." Goyle offered and reached for the little boy. As soon as his hands touched Harry's shoulders, however, the boy jerked back with a frightened cry. Draco shoved at the Slytherins hands and crouched at Harry's side.

"Are you alright, Baby?" He asked gently, brushing back his silky bangs.

Harry buried his head in Draco's chest in answer.

"We need to get off the street." Crabbe said uncomfortably. Ron was glaring murder at the blonde's back.

"Can you walk, Harry? I won't let them touch you again. I'm sorry." He coaxed Harry to his feet. The boy managed to walk, but it was a slow pace. No one said anything about it, though.

The teens hadn't felt comfortable leaving to two boys alone in the Shack, but they had no choice. The plan was to go back to school and act like everything was normal. That Saturday was a Hogsmeade weekend, ironically, but Greg wouldn't be going. Instead, he'd stay in the castle and if he saw an opportunity to let either Professor Snape or Mr. Lupin know of the two escapees whereabouts were, he would. He wasn't having much luck. Neither of the men could be found.

Until then, Ron led his friends to the Shack while Vince went with Pansy. The two groups met up just outside the Shack and got into a huge fight. Ron was furious that Vince was trusting Pansy when she obviously was trouble. Hermione and Ginny were yelling at Ron for telling the Slytherins in the first place. Neville watched helplessly and when he noticed they were getting too much attention, managed to coax a truce from the others and guide them out of sight and inside.

"Who are they and what are they doing here?" Draco demanded with crossed arms as soon as they stepped in.

"These are Harry's friends." Vince said reluctantly.

"You know them, Harry?" Draco asked, looking over his shoulder at the boy at his back. Harry shook his head. "You heard him. Get out." He turned his attention to the blonde girl. "Hello, Pansy." And then back to Vince. "You bring food and water?"

"Harry, are you alright?" Hermione said tearfully.

Ginny knelt, "You two are soooo cute!"

That caught Draco's attention and he smirked at her, "Of course I am."

"Here." Vince un-shrink a bag of food and handed it over.

After confused talk and maneuvering, they settled on the floor in a half circle. Harry sat at the end with Draco between him and the strangers. He sat so close to the blonde's side that he was practically in his lap and Draco had one arm around his shoulders, though his attention was on everyone else, he'd occasionally rub the smaller boy's back to calm him. No one spoke loud after Harry collapsed in a ball whimpering when Ron and Pansy began to scream at each other.

Severus strode into his sitting room. Narcissa was on his heels. Remus came a few feet behind them. The air around the three was thick with tension. When Narcissa realized her son was gone, she immediately blamed Severus, saying he stashed the boys away. She didn't listen to him when he assured her that wasn't the case and kept snapping at her to get out of his way.

Remus was almost falling in pieces with worry. Where could the boys have gone? They had searched the whole castle and hadn't found them. Dumbledore had assured them that the wards hadn't recorded them leaving Hogwarts grounds. Remus kept feeling like there was something he was forgetting. It dawned on him and he gasped. The secret passages! Where was his head! He was just so worried… no matter, he remembered now. He turned and left Severus and Narcissa exchanging icy threats.

The teens fell silent as Harry's head came up. It had been resting peacefully on Draco's shoulder since they finished lunch. The boy's face broke out into a smile and his eyes rested on the shadows to the back of the Shack. The teens jumped to their feet, wands extended. Draco snorted at them and smirked superiorly as Remus came out of the shadows hiding the basement door. Harry got up and ran to him.

"I've been worried sick, pup." He scolded, holding the boy tight. "Though I can see you are well protected." He added as he eyed the six teenagers and their wands.

Draco glared and stood. "I wouldn't let anything hurt, Harry."

"I know you wouldn't mean to." Remus soothed. "But there are mean people out there."

"I know that!" Draco stomped his foot. "But we had to runaway or Mother would take me away again!"

Remus smiled and released Harry. The boy turned and reached for Draco. The blonde went to his side reluctantly, but his upset drained away when the smaller boy took his hand.

"Can I ask what you all are doing here?" Remus asked the teenagers. The Gryffindors looked sheepish and the Slytherins faces were blank. "Severus is going to be furious." Remus said with a sympathetic smile.

"Daddy's mad at me?" Harry spoke for the first time in a small, high voice. The Gryffindor's gasped and almost fell over with shock at what Harry called their hated Potions Master.

Remus looked down at him solemnly, ignoring the others. "I'm afraid he might be. He loves you and you really, really scared him by disappearing. He thinks someone bad has you and is hurting you."

"But we couldn't tell him before we left cause then Mother would get suspicious." Draco defended his plan as he felt Harry's fear and sorrow crash through him. "He won't be mad when he sees we're okay and I tell him why."

"I hope so." Remus shook his head and then hugged them both to his chest one more time. "Merlin, I'm so glad you both are safe."

"Sir? What's going on?" Hermione spoke up. "Why are Harry and Draco calling Professor Snape Dad?"

"And why is Draco calling Harry baby?" Ron glared.

Remus sighed and straightened, his hand still resting on the two children's backs. "I'm afraid you'll have to ask the Headmaster or Severus."

"But Professor!" Ginny and Hermione protested.

"No." Remus shook his head. "You are Harry's friend, but that does not mean you need to know everything. You should care more about what is best for Harry and not what you want. I will not answer you questions."

The shocked silence was broken by a smooth voice. "I'm impressed, Wolf. I didn't think you had it in you."

"Dad!" Draco gasped and spun to face the shadows.

"Severus." Remus was just as shocked. The room was too dusty for him to be able to smell the man's approach and the other's talking and the Shack shifting covered the sound of his light footsteps.

The dark eyes ignored the teens in the room and turned from one child to the next. Draco was unafraid. He was confident he had done what was right and what was needed. Harry was not so serene. His eyes were round with terror and his face was pale. Severus then looked to the Wolf. Draco stood close at one side; Harry was pressed into his legs. The werewolf was unconsciously comforting them with the hand he had on their backs. His face was tired, but his body was strong and his eyes were still bright with relief. He looked good with the children. Severus shook his head sharply to rid himself from the strangely flavored thoughts.

"What is going on?" Severus demanded, eyes falling again on Draco, knowing the answer would come from him.

And the blonde again explained why he had come up with the plan to run away and everything that had happened since last night. When the boy fell silent, the whole room tensed for Severus' reaction. Harry's gaze was the most intense. He looked like he was waiting for the axe to fall, there was no hope in his emerald depths, and the intensity of his despair made Draco shake and press into Remus' legs for support.

"I can respect your decision to protect Harry. I believe you honestly weighed the consequences of your actions and the consequences of not acting, and judged it best to act. I trust you to protect, Harry. But it was inexcusable not to inform me of your plan. I could have helped and should I deem it necessary to fool your mother into believing I had no hand in your flight, I am perfectly capable of such deception."

"I'm sorry, Dad." Draco lowered his eyes.

"I hope nothing like this occurs in the future."

"No, Dad." Draco answered immediately.

"You both are forgiven, but you will have no desert for three days to remind you how wrong you actions were."

Harry gasped, but it wasn't one of horror. It was surprise. A sob rose and tears spilled from his eyes. His whole body shook violently in reaction. Draco reached over and grinned at him. Harry clasped his hand in Draco's, but his eyes never left his Dad's. "You mean… You still love me?"

"Come here." Severus said sternly, but Harry and Draco could see past that to the utter relief and care in his eyes. The boys ran forward and Severus knelt so that he could embrace them both. "Of course I do. Nothing will change that. Nothing."

Ginny sank to her knees and only Neville saved her from hitting her head as she almost fainted with shock. Ron's mouth was hanging open and Hermione was blinking dumbly for the first time in her life. The Slytherins were staring a bit dazed, but you could see the sheer effort and will-power it was taking to remain expressionless. Remus knew Severus wouldn't appreciate the audience or comments the students would have and stepped forward to bring their attention to him while Severus had his moment with the boys.

"Thank you for bringing the boys food and supplies." He told them all and then looked at Ron and Vince. "And thank you for making sure they got here safe. We'll make sure they get back to the castle safely, but I think it's time for you all to head back yourselves. We don't want to make anyone suspicious."

"Of course." Pansy said and left without another word. Vince hurried after.

"Harry's doing better. It's only going to take time." Remus was telling the Gryffindors as he herded them subtly out the door. "Be sure you asked Dumbledore any questions. He'll tell you what he can, but remember that some things must remain secret for a while. Trust me that we will tell you if we ever need help."

"O-okay." Hermione stuttered.

"Goodbye, Professor." Neville smiled at Remus. He had been the least disturbed by the scene within the Shack.

"Take care of them." Remus winked with a smile. Neville laughed and led his friends away.

The werewolf waited until the sixth year students were out of sight before turning back into the Shack. Severus was sitting on the floor. Harry was in his lap and Draco was to the side of him, telling him all about his lessons and how angry he was at his mother. Severus didn't turn to look at Remus as he entered. He kept his attention on Draco and his face blank, nodding every few minutes. Harry gave Remus a smile and leaned back into Severus' chest. The Potions Master lifted a hand in response and ran it through Harry's wild hair comfortingly. Remus smiled and took a seat across from them.

"… and I don't know why I have to know all this stuff. That's why we have law-wizards! I much rather learn about magic. Where is my wand, Dad? Mother said she'd give it to me when I'm older, but that's ridiculous. I won't hurt myself with it." The blonde crossed his arms in a huff.

"I will see what I can do." Severus told him and finally brought his eyes up to meet the werewolf's across from him. He hoped none of his embarrassment reached his eyes. What were these children doing to him! "Narcissa will expect us back."

Remus nodded understanding, but his amber eyes lit on the boys with worry. "I can come back when you two go to sleep."

"We can't keep Draco away from her for long." Severus sighed and gave the blonde a sharp look when Draco looked to open his mouth in anger. "I want you here and Harry needs you. But she is your mother and will do more damage if we try to pretend we don't know where you are."

"Maybe if we tell her what Draco was willing to do to stay, she'll relent?" Remus asked hopefully.

"Doubtful." Severus sighed and stood.

Harry didn't want to be put down yet and turned, wrapping his legs around his Dad's waist and his arms around the man's neck. Severus steadied and balanced him instinctively. Draco, feeling left out, lifted his arms arrogantly at Remus. The werewolf laughed and hefted the bigger child to his hip. Draco stuck his tongue out at Harry and the boy giggled into Severus' shoulder.

"We are bringing them back?" Remus asked.

Severus stared at the man blankly, but behind his eyes he was just taking in the situation they were in. Remus so naturally holding the eight year old Lord of the Malfoy family. The boy's thick braid falling only an inch short of his hips draped over Remus shoulder. The weight of Harry in his arms, the warmth of the child on his side, the soft black hair mingling with lank ebony. This had to be a dream. Surely this wasn't reality.

"Dad?" Draco asked from Remus' arms. A knowing smile spread softly across Lupin's mouth and Severus blinked to tear his attention from almost glowing amber eyes.

"We will take them to the Headmaster." He turned and strode purposely to the tunnel entrance. "His main concern is Harry. He understands Draco must be with him until the time comes where they can be safely separated. I will pretend I still don't know where the boys are. As will you. Draco ran to Albus last night with Harry and has been there since. Albus, of course, will be able to defend himself when Narcissa discovers his location."

"Very Slytherin of you, Severus." Remus chuckled warmly. "Not only are you keeping the boys within reach, you have deflected Mrs. Malfoy's wrath."

Severus sneered at him and the boys laughed.

Severus predicted Dumbledore perfectly. The elderly headmaster was overjoyed to hide the boys away from Narcissa. Harry was very wary around him, would flinch and stay mute, but he would smile, eat, and sit relaxed as long as Draco was by his side. Draco enjoyed the headmaster's company once he got over his anger that the man had once hurt his baby. The old man gave him candy and he knew he had to be polite since Dumbledore was shielding him from his mother.

As for Narcissa, she began to believe that Severus really didn't know where the boys were. Her anger turned into fear. The boys disappeared Friday night and by Sunday evening she was frantic. The boys would age and she was terrified they would be wounded or made vulnerable. Remus didn't necessarily like the woman, but couldn't stand to her suffer such fear and his eyes bore heavily into Severus until he gave in.

He told her that he didn't know where the boys were, but that the headmaster did. Supposedly, Draco had called on him in some sort of oath and until Draco feels he will be allowed to remain, he and Harry both will remain wherever they were. Narcissa raged, but Severus raged back saying it was her fault he was denied Harry. That shut her up and she secluded herself in her room. Remus took this time to visit the boys. Severus wished he could do the same, but knew he couldn't if he were to protect the boys.

So it was that the week ended. Remus came back to their quarters and lay awake all night while up in the headmaster's office two eight year old boys slowly became nine. Narcissa paced and Dumbledore sat unconscious. But the two boys lay sleeping peacefully with tiny smiles on their faces.

Chapter end.

A/N: Okay! How many of you still want something to be worked out between Narcissa and Severus? And how many of you would prefer the story to lean toward Severus/Remus? VOTE!

A/N2: It appears I havel lost my beta for this story. Is anyone interested in taking up the job? As you can see from this chapter, I could use one.