Ghost at the end of the table

by SweetSalt23

Harry stared, even though he tried not to, his eyes constantly going back to the ghost that sat at the end of the seventh-year table. He felt something in his chest as he took in the mere shadow of a person who for years had always had his attention. This attention was vastly different however, the feelings fluttering in Harry' chest unfamiliar when it came to the new Draco Malfoy.

10. Chapter 10

Warning: MxM, nightmares, smexy stuff

Disclaimer: READ FIRST CHAPTER

O0O

Chapter 10

A few days later

Harry laughed as Draco growled at him, the man's frustration clear. "Well, we are both equal in our wins and losses." He stated, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. They stood in the training room, wanting to let off some steam before the conference in two days. Harry picked at his sweat soaked shirt, wrinkling his nose at the smell. "I think we need a shower." He muttered, humming when Draco huffed. "Oh, hush you. I won fair and square."

"Yes, yes." Draco waved his hand and tucked his wand into its holster, reaching up and stripping his shirt off. "Now that you mention it, a shower sounds amazing." He rubbed his sweaty face against the fabric, sighing in relief when his hair no longer stuck to his forehead. "We should probably eat as well."

Harry nodded dumbly, not really listening as he got an eyeful of hardened pecs and scarred, flawed skin. "Sure…we should do that….." He murmured, his voice sounding faraway and distant. He allowed his eyes to trail down, his breath hitching when he saw that the blonde was half hard. "Merlin….." He moaned, not even realizing that he spoke aloud until he heard the Slytherin clear his throat. His gaze snapped up and he flushed from head to toe, shaking his head and trying to rid himself of any lustful thoughts. "S-Sorry, what were you saying?" He asked, voice high with embarrassment.

Draco quirked an eyebrow, crossing his arms and causing his muscles to ripple. "I said, we should probably eat after we shower." He paused, gaze growing dark. "However, I doubt that is what is on your mind, now is it?" He muttered, slowly starting to stalk towards the stuttering Gryffindor. "I bet my innocent Harry just had some inappropriate thoughts, hmm?"

Harry shook his head and quickly backpedaled, raising his hands. "N-No! Of course, not!" He yelped, his heart starting to pound at the heated look the Slytherin threw his way. "You know what?! I am going to go bathe!" He stated loudly, fleeing into his room as Draco's laugh followed him. He nearly drowned himself in the shower but refrained, instead cleaning up and getting dressed before heading downstairs. He gnawed on his lip and entered the kitchen, quickly preparing a small lunch of breads and cheeses and smoked meats. He heard footsteps behind him and he flushed, trying not to remember earlier as he cleared his throat and turned. He froze when his gaze latched onto Draco's naked chest, the man rubbing his wet hair with a towel.

The Slytherin reached forward and grabbed the plate, humming in delight at the selection. "Thank you, love." He hummed, pressing a quick kiss onto Harry's head, not realizing how frozen the man was. "Let us eat in the living room." He walked towards the door, grabbing two butterbeers on his way out.

Harry blinked before he shook his head, having half a mind to turn and brain himself on the metal cooker that sat beside him. He groaned and rested his red face in his hands, trying to wrestle his libido down. Ever since last week his sex drive has been going crazy, the attractive blonde not helping. "Merlin, this man might actually kill me." He muttered before he sighed and headed out, following the Slytherin into the living room. He quickly sat and started to pick at the plate, grinning when the blonde moaned in pleasure. "Good?"

Draco nodded, happily munching away. "Of course, it is. You prepared it after all." He replied, his attention on the plate between them. "After lunch we should probably start on the tattoos. That way we have them finished before the conference."

Harry nodded, chewing on a grape. "Sure, I don't mind. Anything I have to do?" He asked, leaning back into the couch and cracking open the butterbeer that sat beside him. He took a sip and sighed, licking the froth off his bottom lip. "I would like to have mine on my back. Probably on my shoulder." He commented, closing his eyes and savoring the warmth of the man beside him. "I know you will do your own, what with it being on your hip. It will make it harder for someone to find, I am guessing."

"Well, the only person who will see it is you. I will make sure of that." Draco growled, tone possessive and causing a shiver to work its way down the Gryffindors spine. "Anyways, it shouldn't take long to do. The ink itself will be the longest part since I have to actually draw the design on your skin." He shrugged, putting the plate onto the coffee table and sitting back. He wrapped the towel that was on his lap over his shoulders, his hair still slightly damp from his shower. "I have everything we need upstairs."

Harry nodded, swallowing hard at the sight of the man's bare chest. He felt his desire start to surge and he shook it off, not wanting to distract himself from what they needed to do. "Alright, I am ready when you are." He said, averting his gaze from the man beside him.

"Might as well start I suppose." Draco sighed and stood, finishing off his drink before he started walking towards the stairs. "You coming, love?" He asked, turning and raising an eyebrow at the immobile Gryffindor. "You alright?"

Harry nodded quickly and stood, trying to shove his desire into a little box with a lid. "Y-Yeah, lets go." He followed behind the Slytherin and gnawed on his lip, trying not to stare at the man's arse. They made their way towards Harry's room, Draco pushing the door open and making a beeline towards the bed.

"I will do mine first, but I will go to my room to do it." Draco hummed, throwing the towel he was carrying onto the corner of the bed. He quickly grabbed what he needed and turned, pausing when he realized that the Gryffindor was leaning against the closed door, effectively blocking his way. "Harry?" He inquired, brow furrowing in confusion. "I kind of need to leave to do my part."

"Why?" Harry whispered, his arms behind his back as he pressed his hands into the wood of the door. The desire that had plagued him since the morning surged, swimming through his body. "Don't I have to be there to put my magical essence into the tattoo?" He muttered, eyes half-lidded as his gaze trailed down the Slytherins body. He swallowed dryly, his throat clicking. "Why would you need to leave?"

Draco blinked, his head turned slightly to the side. "I am doing it on my hip, love." He gestured to his body, gripping a small potions vial. "I need to strip completely to get to where I want it." He drawled, his eyebrows raising at the way Harry's gaze seemed to darken. "Harry, are you alright? You have been acting-"

"I want to see it." Harry whispered, interrupting the Slytherin. He bit his lower lip and pushed off the door, slowly stalking forwards with his hands behind his back. His breathing quickened as he approached, need slamming into him as he voiced what he wanted. "I want to see it."

Draco froze, breath catching at the way Harry looked at him. "I am not clear on what you want. To see the tattoo? I have already shown-"

"No!" Harry snarled, frustration edging through the arousal as he cut in. He paused and reached forward, sliding his hand down the blonde's stomach and nearly moaning when the man started. "I want to see where you will put the tattoo…" He muttered, nerves slowly tingling down his spine as he hooked his fingers around the band of the Slytherins pants. He glanced up and locked eyes with the man, tugging gently on the fabric that he held between his fingers. "Please?"

Draco stood there, shock plain on his face as he watched his normally timid Gryffindor turn into a prowling predator. His breath whooshed out and he groaned, desire so strong it bled into his voice. "Fuck, baby." He turned and placed what he was holding onto the nightstand, never once taking his gaze off of the panting Gryffindor in front of him. "Are you sure?" He asked, voice soft. He reached forward and grabbed onto the man's hips, restraining the urge to press him close. "I know we haven't seen each other naked before. I don't want to scare you."

Harry swallowed, taking another step forward. "I know…but, I want to see you." He tugged on the man's pants, flushing as another strip of skin was revealed. "This past week, everything you do has made me so hot, Draco. Masturbating didn't help. I want to see you….to get rid of the arousal that has plagued me all day." He blushed at what he said, embarrassment coloring his cheeks even as he tugged harder on the man's pants. "Please, Draco….."

Draco growled and picked the man up, throwing him onto the mattress. "I don't know what has come over you, love." He snarled, voice dark and possessive. "However, I will do everything in my power to please you." A purr rumbled out from his chest, the sound deep and throaty. He reached for his pants and pushed them down, kicking them off and standing in his underwear. "Tell me if you want to stop."

Harry nodded, breathlessly waiting as he watched the Slytherin shove his thumbs under the band. Slowly, as if not to spook him, Draco peeled off his boxers, a hiss escaping as cool air brushed against his hardened cock. "Oh, holy fuck, Draco." Harry mewled, quickly sitting up and drinking in the absolutely gorgeous figure that the blonde cut. "You are so hot…." He panted, desire and need swirling in his stomach.

Draco smirked and reached forward, a soft croon leaving his mouth as he saw the way the Gryffindor shifted restlessly on the mattress. "Merlin, love. You are nearly trembling with need…." He muttered, pleased as he pressed a knee into the bed and leaned over the other man. "Makes me want to mark you up."

Harry gasped; eyes locked onto the man's cock. It was perfect, straight and thick with a nest of blonde curls at the base. Pre-cum leaked from the tip, shining wetly in the dull light of the room. Harry's mouth watered at the sight, stunned by the wanton thoughts that fluttered through his mind. "Fuck." He hissed, hips shifting. He felt his cheeks burn, eyes slowly trailing up before snapping back down to look at the Slytherins hardened length.

Draco hummed in pleasure, smirking darkly at the way that Harry seemed to drink him in. "You make me so hot, Harry mine." He groaned, reaching forward and pushing the Gryffindor's legs open. "Can I undress you, sweetheart? I want to see you."

Harry swallowed, nerves swelling. "D-Dim the lights first…" He demanded, fiddling with the covers beneath him. He saw the candles around them immediately go down, still bright enough to see but dark enough for Harry to feel more comfortable. He reached up and stripped his shirt off, throwing it to the side before daring a glance at the blonde. He placed his hands beside his head and lifted his hips, the silent permission loud.

Draco reached forward and slid the mans pants off, dropping them to the floor as he shuffled fully onto the bed. He dipped his fingers past the band of fabric, slowly pulling them down. His breath hitched as miles of skin was revealed, his lips curling into a heated snarl. "Fuck, you are beautiful, baby." He groaned; voice rough. He tossed the underwear behind his shoulder and leaned away, drinking in the sight of Harry for the first time. "Mine." He growled, locking eyes with Harry.

Harry nearly stopped breathing at the almost animalistic snarl that graced the usually expressionless blonde, that something dark that sometimes reared its head filling him. "Yours." He keened, reaching up and gripping the blondes' arms. He shivered at the violent spark between them, his hips shifting restlessly. "Only yours." He gasped, pupils blown wide with desire. He yelped when Draco grabbed his hips, lifting him up to press their cocks together. Harry shuddered, eyes rolling back into his head and mouth opening in a silent shout.

Draco thrust sharply, chest rumbling in pleasure at how hard the other man trembled. A soft purr left his mouth and he began a slow, deep slide, their hardened lengths dripping. "Feel so good against me, baby." He muttered, hot and heavy. "Can't wait to feel you cum all over my cock. You're going to make it nice and wet, aren't you sweetheart?" He panted, groaning when Harry cried out and dug his nails into his back. "Merlin, the noises you make drive me wild." He wrapped an arm around the Gryffindors waist and propped himself up with his other hand, bending lower to rut harder.

Harry sobbed brokenly, thighs shaking at the glorious feeling of their cocks rubbing together. Never in his life had he been so hard, a trail of pre-cum dripping onto his stomach. "Yessss, wanna make you feel good." He slurred, voice high and needy. His eyelids fluttered; gaze clouded with heated want. "Am I? Am I good?" He whined, not really listening to himself as the pleasure caused words to spring from his mouth.

"Fuck yes, you are so good, sweetheart." Draco groaned, dipping his head down and sucking marks onto the Gryffindors skin. He savored the broken cry that escaped the man beneath him, sucking harshly before releasing him with a wet pop. "Gonna mark you up all pretty." He snarled, his hips snapping forward. "Want me to claim you, love? Want me to create a collar of bruises around that gorgeous neck of yours? Come on, baby. Tell me what you want."

Harry jerked, his hands snapping up and pressing against the headboard as the Slytherin quickened the pace. "Do it, please!" He whined, not even caring what the blonde asked of him, just knowing that he wanted to please the man above him. "Claim me! Make me yours!" He sobbed, pushing against the headboard as the Slytherin grew rougher. It was amazing, all the heat and wetness, panted breaths and whispered moans. Nothing Harry had ever experienced could top this; however he knew that it was only the beginning. "Please, please, please." He panted, eyes rolling back when Draco sat up farther on his knees and pressed him into the mattress while hauling his arse higher. It caused his back to bend in a beautiful curve, sweat beading off his shivering skin.

"Fuck," Draco hissed, teeth bared as he bit and sucked large blooming bruises against the Gryffindors shoulders. "You are the prettiest thing I have ever seen, Harry." He groaned, the noise rumbling out of his chest. He heard the man's breath hitch loudly, the cries and kitten whimpers increasing. The blonde didn't think much of it, praise pouring from his mouth as he thrust hard before suddenly curling a hand around their lengths and stroking them wetly. "Look at you…." He purred, eyes sparking hot and bright. A pink flush sat high on his sharp cheekbones, his golden hair pushed back and damp with sweat. "Pretty boy…." He fisted their cocks and continued to thrust roughly, fucking into his own hand and stroking Harry tightly. "So wanton in your lust. I love how quickly you fall apart in my hands." He dipped his head and sunk his teeth deep into the Gryffindors neck, nearly breaking skin as he quickened the pace. "Mine."

"Yours!" Harry shouted, stars bursting behind his eyes. The feeling of the blonde's hand on his cock was enough to nearly send him over the edge, but he refrained. He wanted to make sure that the blonde found pleasure when he did. He shook in his effort to hold back his orgasm, his cries sharpening and frame twisting so much that Draco had to tighten his grip around his sweaty waist. "Please!"

Draco grunted, rubbing them faster as he felt the base of his spine tingle. "Fuck, Harry. I wanna see it. I want to see you orgasm." He panted, voice going impossibly deep. "That's it, baby. Make my cock nice and wet. Cum for me, won't you pretty?" He snarled, sound dangerous and tipping Harry right over the edge.

Harry's body locked up, his back curved sharply and breath lodging in his throat. His eyes rolled back, nails digging into the blondes back as the best orgasm of his life tore through him. "DRACO!" He shouted, voice high and broken. He shuddered almost violently, his cock twitching as he spilled all over his stomach and Draco's. However, the wave of ecstasy didn't recede, the shocks shivering down his spine.

Draco groaned and pressed his forehead against the Gryffindors shoulder, hips bucking as he reached the peak of his own pleasure. He came, covering the smaller man's stomach with slick heat. He gasped roughly, cock twitching before he nearly collapsed against the Gryffindor, the man still huffing out small moans as he trembled through the aftershocks. "Holy, fucking hell."

Harry whimpered, nodding in silent agreement as his limbs went limp and his back was dropped onto the mattress beneath him. He sucked in a sharp breath, trying to calm his racing heart as the cum cooled on his heated skin. He tried to speak, throat clicking dryly. "D-Draco…." He muttered, useless as he basked in the warm glow of the aftermath of what they did. "Amazing…" He heard a chuckle above him but he didn't react, slowly dozing off.

"So pretty, Harry mine."

Harry smiled before slipping into a doze, utterly relaxed for the first time in his life.

O0O

Few days later

Harry fidgeted nervously, swallowing the panic and anxiety that tried to choke him up. He felt a hand suddenly fall onto is shoulder and he tensed. "I don't know if I can do this, Draco. I am literally already sweating, and it hasn't even started." He rubbed his palms on his pant legs, the cloth bunching up under his frantic fingers.

"You will be fine, Harry." Draco lifted his wand and spelled Harry free of sweat, layering on a cooling charm just to be safe. "We have practiced enough. There is little else we can do beside going out there and physically fighting them to get them to listen."

"I would prefer that honestly….."

Draco chuckled, smacking the Gryffindor lightly on the head. "Stop it, you. You will do perfectly up there." Draco scratched his nails down the Gryffindors nape and smirked at the shudder that rippled through the man's body. "Thirty minutes will go by in seconds just you wait."

Harry nodded, taking a deep breath before shaking himself. "A-Alright. I guess we shouldn't leave them hanging." He sighed, shaking his head when the blonde laughed. "Well, here it goes." He grabbed the door to the building and pulled it open, blinking when he heard several shutters click and flashes nearly blinding him. "Merlin."

Draco nodded, mask firmly in place as he pushed Harry gently and made his way to the podium that sat on a raised platform. He calmly stepped up and snapped his robes behind him, his figure imposing besides the much smaller Gryffindor. He reached up and tapped his wand against his neck, clearing his throat to gain the attention of the reports in front of him before his monotone voice carried across the packed courtyard. "Hello, everyone. Now, I doubt I have to explain why you are all here. However, it stands to reason that in thirty minutes we can only answer so many questions." He ignored the angry muttering, nearly flashing a devious smile. "Harry will do the choosing. However, there are some questions that I am better suited to answer. Do not be surprised if I jump in." He turned to Harry, wanting so much to kiss the crease on his forehead. "Harry Potter will now begin."

Harry nodded nervously and swallowed, stepping to the podium and taking a fortifying breath. His eyes scanned the crowd, knowing from Draco who to avoid allowing to ask questions. He pointed to the far left, his sleeve lifting to reveal the gold bracelet that encircled his wrist. "You there, in the red dress and yellow shawl." He waited patiently for the woman to gather herself, smiling reassuringly at her. "What is your question?"

"Yes! I would like to ask what prompted you to try to push bills through for Dark Creatures rights?" She asked, her pen posed above her paper as she waited for the Gryffindor to answer.

Harry smiled, glad that this was somthing he could answer easily. "Voldemort." He said simply, smile disappearing as his expression grew serious. "He gained so much power during the war because he appealed to the ones who are shunned. Vampires, Elves, Centaurs and every creature that has been labeled Dark have been kicked again and again by the council that we put so much faith in. The same Council that allowed Muggleborns to be hunted and for Dark Wizards to gain control of the very thing that is supposed to keep us safe." Harry paused, his heart growing calm as passion lit hot in his chest. "As a wizard, and a human being, I am ashamed of how the creatures we deem weaker than us have been treated up till now. That is why I am pushing these bills through." Harry waved his wand, the air shimmering as he showed a vampire lovingly cradling a child in his arms and smiling. The scene passed and another blended in. A centaur family trotted through the forest, fowls laughing. It blurred slowly as another gained light, showing a mermaid humming happily and planting coral in a large garden with kits swimming about. "How are these creatures any different than us? They have a family, a life that Wizards don't wish to think of because that would make our actions wrong. And we are. We are wrong." He flicked his wand, voice booming around the courtyard and causing the people standing to shift nervously. "I wish to create a fairer environment for those who we have pushed aside. When we had no right to do so. With these bills we can make it safe for them, and for us, too slowly grow closer and build a foundation of trust." He smiled, nodding to the woman before he turned and pointed to a man that stood in the middle of the group. "Now, you. What is your question?"

"I wish to know how you intend to make it safe for us. They are creatures! Some of them killers!" He said, voice causing a murmur to sweep through the crowd. Harry paused at that before turning to Draco, cocking his head.

Draco turned and raised his wand, the paper in his hands flying up and enlarging big enough for the whole crowd to see. "Now, before I even began to answer that I would like for you to go over this with me." He set his wand down and crossed his arms, starting to list of numbers from the paper he had memorized. "This year, there have been 120 Dark Creatures killed by wizards. The number that Dark creatures did to us? 3. They only killed 3 people in the span of a year and two of those cases were for self-defense. The year prior 169 creatures killed, 7 wizards." He paused, enjoying the way that some people frowned up at the large banner that floated above him. "The year before that was the reign of the Dark Lord. Do you want to know many wizards died that year at the hand of Dark creatures? A measly 34. Do you know how many we killed in return? Almost 300." He snapped his wrist and the paper flipped, a very long list of wizards who had died from Dark creatures with summaries of why underneath. "It is not that we have to keep us safe. What we need is to keep wizards who think themselves better just because they can to stay away from Dark Creatures." Draco shook his head, voice raising slightly. "I am of pureblood, the one Heir to the Malfoy name. I have been raised to think certain things and to feel certain ways about the creatures that the Ministry have incorrectly labeled dark because of their fear. I know now how horrible it is to cast aside people and creatures just because they are different from us. Muggleborns and wizards are no different. The same goes for Dark creatures. They are not dangerous. It is us who is to them." He flicked his wand, the banner rolling up before resuming its original form. "If you would like to know where I found this information you can speak to Kinglsey secretary." He cancelled the spell that was tied to his throat and took a step back, allowing Harry to take the lead again.

"How about you in the blue shirt and white hat?" Harry pointed to the far right, nodding as the man stood straighter. "Your question?" He inquired, his head titling somewhat to the side, his hair brushing against the gold of his collar.

"If we pass these bills, will the Dark Creatures mingle with wizards? Have they shown any interest in going to school or joining the Ministry?" He asked, voice wavering slightly.

"They have made no indication that they would want any of that. They simply want to be left alone and at peace. The only creatures who wouldn't mind going to school or working amongst wizards are vampires and werewolves. The centaurs and mermaids don't have intention of doing any of that. Now, when the bill passes and they start to drift closer to us without fear, we will make sure that both sides are safe from one another." Harry shrugged one shoulder, lips quirking into a small smile. "We only have time for one more question unfortunately." He turned his head, sharp eyes scanning the group before catching on a pregnant witch. "How about you?"

The woman smiled, rubbing her stomach absentmindedly. "Well, if these bills get passed, what will be your next move? It seems you want to change things, and I am interested in how far you are going to go."

Harry blinked, not expecting such a question before he chuckled. "I have many plans. However, those will need to be kept a secret as me and my partner in crime, Draco Malfoy, would like to have an advantage over you reporters." He smirked, teeth sharp at the angry huff from several people close to him. "Now, I will hand out some papers for you all to read. It will highlight questions you didn't get answers to and will show you the process of how we got the information we did." He flicked his fingers, not realizing he had down wandless magic as papers flew into the reporters' hands. "Now, we bid you farewell. We shall see you all at the passing of the bill." Harry turned and left the way he had come, knowing that Draco was following closely behind. He sighed and entered into a parlor room, dropping into the couch and resting his head against the back. "Even thirty minutes was too much for me. I thought I was going to explode."

Draco laughed, flicking his wand to make sure that the room was sealed and that there wasn't any listening or seeing devices. "You did amazing, sweetheart." He purred, noting the blush that erupted across the Gryffindors cheeks. "Now, would you like to go home? I had the house elves at the manor deliver us some food. I knew you wouldn't want to cook, and I am not so great at it at the moment."

Harry nodded, eyes closed as he shifted on the couch. "Yes, please. Sidelong me. I am too drained to get up." He grumbled, raising an arm and ignoring the blonde's snort. He didn't even flinch when he felt a hook tug at his navel, his world spinning and leaving the morning behind.

O0O

Next day

Harry sighed, blinking the blurriness from his eyes as he groaned and sat up. He glanced around and huffed at the empty bed, pouting. He quickly got up and walked down the stairs, hearing banging from the kitchen. "Draco?" He called out, turning the corner and smiling at the Slytherin. "What are you doing?"

"Burning breakfast, apparently." Draco snarled, crossing his arms and glaring at the ruined mess of pancake that sat in the pan in front of him. "I was going to try to make you something to eat before you got up." He grumbled, sighing and rolling his eyes. "Now, I know. I am a failure of a chef. Luckily, I thought ahead and got Muppet to make us some breakfast in case I ruined it. Which I did." He didn't comment on the snort that left the man beside him, instead swishing his wand and pulling the food packages from out of a basket that sat on the counter. "Bon appetit."

Harry chuckled and slid into one of the bar stools, humming happily. "It is okay, Draco. You don't need to be bloody perfect at everything." He teased, smiling when the blonde leaned over and gave him a quick peck on his cheek. He nodded his thanks when the man handed him a loaded plate, groaning in satisfaction at the taste.

Draco slipped into the seat beside him, a glass of fire whiskey in his hand. Harry knew that when the Slytherins appetite disappeared he usually took a glass or two of the hard alcohol. He claimed that it worked most of the time to regain the need to eat after a few hours. Harry didn't really question it as it was a rare occurrence.

Harry hummed happily, pausing when Draco set a firm hand around his bare thigh. He tended to walk around in a shirt and underwear nowadays, far more comfortable to do so in front of the blonde than anyone else. He blinked at the Slytherin but shrugged, going back to eating. Silence grew between them, comfortable and familiar, neither of them feeling the need to break it.

Once Harry was done eating he snapped his fingers and put everything away with magic, the dishes cleaning themselves. He turned towards the blonde, scooting his chair closer to the man. He leaned forwards, smiling at the Slytherin. "Kiss me?" He asked, quickly cleaning his teeth with a whispered spell.

Draco smirked, something dark lurking in his eyes that Harry hadn't seen before. "Of course, love." He muttered, taking a sip of his whiskey before setting it down. He reached forward, dragging the Gryffindors stool right up against his. The blondes' legs caged him in, the rough fabric of his slacks rubbing against Harry's thighs.

The Slytherin ran his fingers up Harry's arm, his movement slow and easy. He paused at the shoulders, quickly going up and rubbing the Gryffindors lips. Draco had never been this slow with him, usually it was quick fire and snapping sparks. Now, it felt like the blonde wanted to savor him. It caused a deep tremble to shake up his spine.

Draco brushed his lips against Harry's eyelids, causing them to close with a flutter. He pressed a quick kiss to each cheekbone before descending down, finally catching the other man's mouth with his. He tasted like fire whiskey, hot cinnamon heat coating his tongue. It made Harry moan, the Gryffindor leaning forward and pressing his palms into the man's thighs to get closer.

"Patience." Draco murmured, unhurried as he nibbled the Gryffindor's lower lip. His tongue swept gently across the light sting, almost sultry in is teasing. He pressed a thumb against Harry's mouth, pulling a bit to part the man's lips. "Lovely." Draco whispered; eyes dark with desire. He pressed a palm against the back of the Gryffindors neck, splaying his fingers and bringing him closer. Draco turned his head, suddenly kissing deep and slow.

Harry mewled, body surging up at the dirty way that the Slytherin played with him. He had never been kissed so deeply, the blonde usually holding back a bit to not make him too anxious. Now though, their tongues twined in a slow glide and drool began to slip from the corner of his lip. He didn't even notice, to far gone to care. Harry moaned brokenly, feeling Draco press him closer. He started to pant, cheeks burning hot.

Draco hummed, suddenly pulling away to take a sip of fire whiskey. He smirked as the Gryffindor whined in protest, quickly bending back down to capture Harry's mouth again. He tangled his fingers in the thick locks of the other man's hair, pulling it to turn his head. He still held the glass of fire whiskey in his hand, the amber liquid shining.

The way that the Slytherin stayed so unbothered while Harry was growing more and more frantic began to make that 'something darker' that Harry sometimes felt to rear its head. He moaned deep in his throat, gasping when Draco pulled away to finish off his glass. "Draco." Harry whined, voice trembling with need.

"Yes, sweetheart?" The blonde muttered, rubbing soothing circles into the back of the Gryffindor's neck. He grinned when Harry growled, shaking his head when the man tried to pull him close. "Sorry, love. I don't think I can go much more without losing it." He whispered, leaning an elbow against the counter and resting his temple on his fist as he stared. The air around him was tense but also relaxed, comfortable but also not. It was like Draco was aware of his shortening leash, trying to keep his composure even when he allowed himself to taste the man in front of him. His eyes shone with a dangerous light, but his face was serene and still. Harry trembled at the calm slow way that the Slytherin dealt with his deeper desire, obviously holding back for the Gryffindors sake.

"O-Of course, I don't want to make you uncomfortable." Harry replied, not moving away as he watched every emotion that played past the blonde's expression. "We should probably try to distract ourselves." He remarked, finally leaning away. He felt the blondes predatory gaze on his face, his skin shivering as a result of the heated stare. "W-Why don't we talk about the case? We did say we would question the people mentioned in the file." He threw his hand out and caught the manilla folder that flew from the living room, blushing when Draco remained silent but wrapped a large hand against Harry's leg. The Gryffindor shivered at the spark between them but tried to ignore it, instead opening the file between them and flipping to the last page.

He quickly began listing the people he thought would be the easiest to speak with first, running his wand over the names to highlight them. "I think after school we should hit one person every other day. It will make it easier to deal with the ten names in the file. What do you think?" He glanced at Draco, pausing when he realized the man hadn't moved at all. His eyes remained focused on Harry's face, a small smirk pulling at the corner of his mouth. "D-Draco?" He stuttered, blushing hot at the unwavering stare. "W-What is it?"

"Nothing, love. I am just taking in how absolutely gorgeous you are." Draco replied, voice soft and edged with such raw sincerity that Harry didn't try to deflect the compliment. After a moment the blonde sighed, seeming to shake himself before he straightened. "I think it is a good idea. We should start later this week. Will give us enough time to come up with questions we want to ask." He lifted his hand off of the Gryffindors thigh, his mannerism calmer than before as he ran a finger under one of the names. "We should do this one first since I am acquainted with her." He remarked, lips pursed. "We used to flow in the same circles. You know, the purebloods and purists."

Harry nodded, almost missing the odd aura that had cloaked the Slytherin only moments before. "Well, that makes it easier then since I don't know anyone on this list." He flipped the page, pointing to another list. "This is the family members who had one of their own killed. We should do that last and with as much care as possible. I don't want to bring up old memories." He sighed and closed the folder, pushing his chair away from the bar and standing. "Well, we have a rough plan. However, I know that in that head of yours you are already thinking about a million things." He teased, feeling warm when Draco smiled. "How about we meet up later in the library? It will be far more comfortable to start sketching out questions there." He tapped the folder with one finger, running his other hand through his unruly hair. "Thank you for breakfast, Draco. I think I will take a quick shower before we dive in." He sighed, leaning forward and giving the man a quick kiss. He pulled away, about to turn when he felt the blonde grab his wrist. "Draco?" He questioned, lifting an eyebrow.

Draco hummed, pulling the Gryffindor closer. "Can I join you?" He muttered, eyes still and bright.

"Join me…?" Harry paused, trailing off before a blush erupted high on his cheekbones. "In the shower?!" He yelped, staring in shock as the blonde nodded. "W-Why?"

"We have seen everything of each other, and I would love to bath with you." He whispered, raising the man's hand and kissing his fingers. "Please, love?" He nibbled on Harry's knuckle; expression intense.

Harry pursed his lips, nerves lightening up his back before he slumped and sighed. "Fine, but you keep your hands to yourself." He demanded, pointing a finger at the man. "Got it?"

Draco smirked.

O0O

A few hours later

"What did I say about keeping your hands to yourself?" Harry muttered, throwing open the library door with a huff. He heard Draco chuckle behind him and he glared, cheeks still red from their shower. "You have been insatiable lately." He commented, dropping into the love chair and kicking his feet up.

Draco hummed, shrugging. "Can you blame me? I have a hot, eager partner who is pretty much the sexiest thing I have seen." He growled, smiling when Harry shifted restlessly on the cushion. "I can't keep my hands off you."

Harry frowned and crossed his arms, even as his eyes sparkled with pleasure. "Not true." He deflected, smirking when Draco still and leered at him. "Oh, hush you. You know you can have me whenever you want." He flushed at the implications of his words before he surged forwards and grabbed the crime folder. "Anyways, how should we do this?" He asked, flipping it open. "You are better at this than I am, so you get to lead this."

Draco nodded, still staring at the Gryffindor before collecting himself. "Well, we should definitely make sure that each set of questions are tailored towards the person we are speaking to. Sometimes, saying one thing to one person is completely different than another. Let us start with the one I am familiar with." Draco grabbed a notepad and his purple quill. "We should definitely not be sympathetic towards dark creatures with this one. She is venomously against the bill since she always preached about hunting them down to extinction." Draco began writing, the soft scratching filling the air between them. "I know you won't like speaking to her, so I will do most of the asking. However, if she does want to speak with you I would tread very carefully. She is not one to anger. Her magic becomes volatile when she is, even with the suppression charms layered on her."

"Can she not control her magic?" Harry inquired, staring at the list of questions that the blonde was quickly writing.

"No, she can. However, for some reason anger is her trigger. I know when we spoke of it before she had no clue why. Neither did the medic witches." Draco tapped the plume against his cheek, frowning in thought. "I have only seen her lose it once, during one of the galas that her family holds every year. It was definitely a sight to see." He grinned, chuckling. "She was apparently talking with a man who tried to grope her and she just lost it. Serves him right, the wanker. Luckily, he did not die but he made sure to steer clear of her."

Harry nodded, feeling disgusted at the thought of someone touching someone else without consent. "Yeah, he definitely deserved it." He muttered, leaning against the back of the couch and bring his legs up. "Well, I appreciate the warning. Since you know her, it will be good if I just stayed out of it."

"Well, I won't be surprised if she asks for you. Just try not to give her something to be angry about."

"That will be impossible."

"Oh, I know how good you are at getting a rise out of people." Draco laughed, tapping the Gryffindors leg with his free hand. "Look at us. It took you seconds to make me want to hex you. You know exactly what to say in that regard." He shook his head fondly. "I didn't realize until much later that the feeling I had whenever you got close was actually desire than any real sort of anger. After all, must of the things you said were true." Draco pursed his lips, scratching out another sentence before pausing again. "Now, whenever you want to get a rise out of me I just have to get you underneath me for you to stop." He smirked heatedly, not bothering to react when Harry gasped and smacked his arm. "It isn't my fault that you get my blood pumping whenever you get all feisty."

"Draco!" Harry yelped, burying his face in his hands and kicking the man lightly on the leg with his foot. "Stop!" He whined, shifting when the man chuckled darkly. "I swear, you are going to kill me. Now, hurry up to the next person."

Draco snorted, dropping it as he flipped to a clean page. "It is someone going by the name of Avory Finch. Not a very unique name, that." He read the summary under her picture, cocking his head a bit to the side. "It seems that she managed to get away but lost her arm in the process. I would not show any type of pity, it might make her defensive."

"That must have been extremely painful. Why didn't Saint Mungo's grow her another one?"

"If the magic is dark enough, the flesh will not want to change in anyway. Must likely they tried to attach something else and spelled it to only accept an arm that already exists. Magic is very fickle, especially when it has to do with healing." Draco started to write, slower this time as he thought of what was appropriate to ask.

"Well, I should be the one to talk with her. No offense, but your mask makes people hate you." Harry winced at his own words, gesturing with his hands to make a point. "I know it is useful, but this time I doubt it would help us at all."

"No, I agree. You are the only one I drop my mask for. I would not do that for some random stranger that I do not know." Draco nodded, flicking his gaze towards the Gryffindor before continuing. "After all you are the passion out in public when we are together."

"What, like fire and ice?" Harry chuckled, leaning closer and resting his head on the blondes arm as the Slytherin continued to write. He snorted when Draco merely hummed. "I don't mind the public not knowing how fiery you are in private. After all, that is all for me."

"Of course, love. Now, read over this and tell me what you think." He handed the paper towards the Gryffindor, kissing his cheek in the process. "Do you want to add anything else?" He nuzzled Harry's neck, breathing in his calming scent. The Gryffindor smelled like smoking wood and charcoal, of wet pine and lemongrass. It was intoxicating.

Harry quickly read through the list, not reacting when the Slytherin burrowed into his neck. He ignored the spark that the skin-on-skin contact caused, instead grabbing the man's quill and beginning to write his own questions. "I think you did amazing, but I want to add one or two." He muttered absentmindedly; his handwriting awful compared to the blonde. "I don't want to bring up bad memories, but I think asking about her arm would be good. No pity and no shying away from it. It would seem like she appreciates honesty if her file is accurate." He paused and tapped the purple feather against his lip, losing himself in thought. "This one might take longer since she remembers most of what happened." Harry murmured, flinching when Draco scraped his teeth against the throat of his neck. "Stop it, you animal. I am trying to gather enough brain power to formulate more questions." He smiled when Draco chuckled, the man calming and simply breathing him in.

They sat in silence for what seemed like hours, Draco and Harry alternating with writing down questions. By the time they finished the first set, an alarm on the Slytherins wand went off.

"I think that would be lunch time." Draco commented, swishing his wand to stop the blaring alarm. "What are you in the mood for, love?" The blonde began tidying up, setting everything they had been using onto the coffee table for later use. "I can get Muppet to cook something for us if you aren't in the mood."

Harry hummed and stood, following the blonde out. "I would love some Indian food. I haven't had it in a while." He skipped up the stairs, reaching and grabbing the Slytherins hand in his. "What would you like to do after?"

"Something you hate, but I love."

"More core stuff?" Harry whined, frowning.

"Yes, that exactly. We haven't done it in a while. We might as well pick up where we left off. After all we were making some good progress. My notes said that there was a slight increase in magical strength last time we had done it. I want to see if the trend will continue." Draco turned into the kitchen, smirking at Harry. "Don't worry, love. I promise to keep my hands to myself."

"No, you fucking won't."

Draco laughed.

O0O

That night

Harry sighed and crossed his legs, glaring at the blonde. "You know, I hate how much you like doing this." He grumbled, pouting. He hissed when the Slytherin chuckled, the man getting ready for bed.

"I like it because I get to see my partner in the throes of pleasure." Draco hummed, eyes darkening and pupils swallowing up the blue color of his iris. "It does it for me, honestly. You can't begrudge me that." He sat on the bed and crossed his legs, knees almost touching Harry's. "If you want, I can be the one to twine them together."

Harry pursed his lips before nodding, grabbing his wand and waiting for the Slytherin to hold his up. They went through the motions of making their magic appear, the gold strands glimmering between them. Harry dropped his wand and bit his lip, frowning as he prepared himself. He locked eyes with Draco, the man nodding before he slowly reached forward. The moment his fingers brushed across the shimmering thread, they both moaned.

Harry struggled to keep his eyes open, wanting to watch the man in front of him. Oh, fucking Merlin. He thought, catching Draco's smirk right before he snatched up one of the strands. "Fuck!" Harry cried, his fingers digging into his knee. Sweat began to bead down his neck, the sparks that they usually ignored dancing hotly across their skin. Pleasure bloomed between them, the blonde not hesitating before grabbing another thread and pressing them close together. Instead of struggling like Harry had before, he clapped his hands together with ease, the burst of light from the combined strings startling.

Harry hissed and slumped; head bowed. "Fucking hell. Give me some warning next time." He panted, cock aching and hard.

"Alright." Draco paused. "I am doing it again."

Harry's head snapped up, his mouth opening to argue when the Slytherin grabbed another thread. The whine that left his mouth was loud and piercing, immediately causing Harry to blush with embarrassment. "Draco!" He snapped, glaring at the blonde. If it wasn't for the man's rock-hard cock, Harry would think he was unaffected. "Really?"

Draco shrugged, holding a strand of gold light tightly as he searched for one of the Gryffindors to grab. "Just so you know, I am having a great time watching you absolutely melt without me even touching you." He ignored the man's growl and choose a much bigger strand then the rest, quirking an eyebrow. "Ready?"

"No, I am not. However, that hasn't stopped you before." Harry snarled, eyes sparking as Draco laughed heatedly. "Go on. Get on with it." He shivered when the blonde leered at him, trying to ignore the strum of desire that constantly swept through his body when the man held onto one of the golden threads. He watched with bated breath as the blondes' fingers wrapped around a thick coil, nearly sobbing at the pleasure that whipped down his spine.

Draco grunted, quickly yanking the threads together and growling when they twined with a flash of light. He sat there panting, watching Harry tremble from the force of the sparks that danced on their skin. "Fuck, I need you. Now." He snapped, grabbing his wand to make the golden light disappear before he lunged.

Harry yelped, gasping when the Slytherin yanked him into his lap. "Fuck." He mewled, wrapping his arms around the man's neck. He keened when Draco immediately started a rough grind, Harry sitting astride the blonde. "Yessssss."

"Feel so good, love." Draco growled, gripping handfuls of the man's arse as he quickened the pace. He knew that neither of them would last, the pleasure from them combining cores still ringing through their blood. He moaned when Harry sobbed into his ear, shivering at the wanton sound. "Oh, fuck." He shuddered and peaked, knowing that Harry was right behind him at how hard he trembled.

"Holy shit, Draco." Harry panted, not fighting the blonde when the man tipped him back onto the bed. "I swear, it gets more intense every time." He moaned, smiling when he felt the mess in his pants disappear with a whispered spell. "Thanks."

"I think it does, but I would have to check the data." Draco muttered, slipping under the covers and dragging the Gryffindor with him. "I will check in the morning. Now, we sleep."

"So demanding." Harry teased, smiling and burrowing against the Slytherins side. "Love you, Draco."

"Love you, Harry."

O0O

"Are you part of a cult?"

Harry blinked, gaze rising from the book he was reading towards the redhead that was suddenly seated in front of him. "What?"

"I asked if you were part of a cult." Ginny repeated, reaching forward and snagging a piece of toast that sat on Draco's plate and ignoring the mans raised eyebrow. "So, I am guessing you haven't read the prophet yet?" She smirked, shoving the newspaper on top of the Gryffindors open book. "Apparently, they think you two are part of a cult."

Harry frowned, eyes scanning the paper quickly and pausing. He glanced up, staring at the other Gryffindor with a dumbfounded expression. "You have to be joking." He stated, not moving when Draco leaned against him to read over his shoulder. "This is a joke, right?"

Ginny snorted, shaking her head. "Nope. They really do believe that you two are the leaders of some weird dark creature loving cult." She snickered at Harrys expression. She quickly leaned forward and pushed his sleeve up, his golden bracelet shining in the candlelight of the Great hall. "It is because of these. You both were wearing them at the conference and some reporters noticed. Also, when you meet up with Kinglsey." She rolled her eyes, slumping onto the table. "It is a load of bullocks, but it is hilarious."

"To you, maybe." Harry muttered, going back over and reading what Rita Skeeter had written. Of course, it would be front page. "Remember when you said this woman would be a thorn in our side? I think we have to go with plan b and blackmail her."

Draco pressed his lips together tightly, trying not to laugh in front of the ginger Weasley. "Yes, I assumed it would come down to that. After breakfast would you like to send her a letter?" He asked, sipping at his coffee. "Or we could be dramatic and storm into the Prophet."

Harry paused, considering the idea before the blonde nudged his shoulder with a look. "You were the one who suggested it…" He muttered, handing the woman back her newspaper. "Let us draft something up, I guess. Thanks, Ginny."

"No problem. Let me know if we have to bury a body. Mum has been complaining that the soil in our garden needs fertilizer." She waved and hopped up, ignoring the twin looks of shock as she flounced away.

"Well, plan c will go perfectly if Ginny is involved."

"Draco!"

O0O

"This sounds vaguely threatening." Harry pointed out, brow furrowed as he read over the blondes shoulder as the man continued to write. "Is it supposed to be threatening?"

"Of course, it is. Just because my father decided to tarnish the Malfoy name, does not mean that it still does not have the power to beat her down. She knows this. However, she still chooses the course of action that would reside in conflict. It is the woman's fault if you ask me." Draco shrugged, unbothered. "This also shows that we aren't afraid to use all the things we have at our disposal to get what we want. A very Slytherin approach I know, but this one reeks of being a snake." Draco smirked, folding the paper three times. "Now, the last thing is to seal this up." He pulled the top drawer open, moving things around before pulling out a large black ring. "The Malfoy crest is one that cannot be mistaken for something else. This way she can't give the excuse of not getting the letter if she does not show out the time and place that we provided."

Harry nodded, smiling at the blonde. "You are very clever." He hummed, pressing a kiss to the Slytherins temple and watching him drip wax onto the parchment before pressing the ring against it. "Now, I suppose all we do is wait."

"It won't be long, trust me." He grabbed the letter and stood, nodding his head to the door. "Walk with me to the owlery?" He grinned when the Gryffindor bounced forwards, his happiness almost palatable. "I am glad you are this excited at blackmail."

"Well, I haven't done it before." Harry chuckled, pushing the door open and heading out of the Seventh-year dorms. "I haven't done something so Slytherin since the sorting hat." He remarked, blinking when Draco paused and raised and eyebrow. "Did I not tell you? The hat wanted me in Slytherin, but I convinced it to sort me into Gryffindor." He laughed as the blonde openly gaped at him. "I know, crazy right? It said I would have made a great snake, but I don't really like reptiles." He teased, reaching forwards and grabbing Draco's arm. He pulled him through the portrait, quickly turning a corner to go the long way.

"You could have been in Slytherin this whole time?" Draco breathed; his eyes unfocused as his mind raced. "Merlin, that would have been a sight to see. You? Wearing our colors?" The blonde suddenly snapped to look at Harry, making the Gryffindor start. "You would look lovely in green."

Harry blushed, averting his gaze as they continued to walk. "You would know better than me." He shrugged, rounding the corner towards the stairs to the owlery. "Anyways, after we send this letter we can head out and start our questioning."

Draco nodded, whistling sharply as they entered and waiting as a brown falcon descended. "Since we don't have classes, we might as well. I know that at this time she would be taking her morning tea." He sent the bird off, smiling and turning towards Harry. "Let us go and gather our things. Then we can head out."

Harry nodded, quick to follow the man downstairs. It took them no time at all to get ready and head out through the gates of Hogwarts, the two quickly spinning on the spot and disappearing. Harry gasped as he appeared in an empty alleyway, nearly falling flat on his face if it wasn't for the blonde grabbing him. "Thank you."

"You are quite clumsy." Draco stated, voice filled with amusement that only Harry could hear. "After our meeting would you like to walk around town and grab something to eat?" He inquired, reaching out and grabbing Harry's hand to pull him onto the bustling sidewalk. "After all we deserve it for braving the masses."

Harry chuckled, feeling disappointed when the blonde dropped his hand now that they were in public. "Definitely. I am fine with anything, so you choose today." He made sure to stick close to the imposing Slytherin, nearly smirking when the witches and wizards around them started to part like the sea. "I am surprised reports aren't here yet." He commented, shoving his hands into his pockets and fingering his wand in case anyone tried to get to close. "It isn't like we are being sneaky."

"Don't worry, they will eventually show up. Especially now that the ridiculous article that Skeeter wrote was published." Draco muttered, his mask firmly in place as his eyes wandered around at the people who stopped to stare at them. "I don't like this." He whispered, noticing how many people were talking behind their hands and pointing at them.

"I know. I don't either." Harry pressed close to the blonde, breathing a sigh of relief when they finally stumbled into a bar with a Floo. "It still unnerves me how people still care about what is going on in my life. It isn't like it is any of their business." He growled, following the Slytherin closely.

"At least you know that when we graduate, we can travel the world and leave London behind." Draco stated, flashing Harry a quick smile before grabbing a handful of Floo powered. "Ready?"

Harry nodded, beaming up at the blonde when he mentioned life outside of Hogwarts. With them together. "Ready." He threw the powder in, quickly stepping through heading towards the Kings manor. He yelped when he feel out moments later, crashing into the floor and hitting his head. He groaned and curled up, cradling the back of his skull. "Fuck me."

"Only when we get home." Draco drawled, amused as he helped the Gryffindor up. "You are a danger to yourself." He tsked, quickly spelling the pump away from the mans head. "I will make sure to be the one to go first next time so I can catch you."

"Don't rub it in." Harry muttered, flicking his fingers and spelling them clean of soot and dust. "Now, let us go and question out first victim." He ignored the blonds huff, instead slowly making his way through the foyer and towards the gardens. He spotted the madam of the manor and he quickened his pace, knowing that Draco was following behind. He waved when the woman turned, quickly bowing his head before gesturing to the Slytherin behind him. "Hello, Miss Amelia. Draco sent a letter to inform you that we would be coming?"

Amelia nodded, pointing at the two chairs in front of her that sat beneath the shade of a large oak tree. "Yes, dear Draco told me that you two want to speak with me about the chimera case?" She paused and waited for them to nod, grinning politely as she sipped from a delicate piece of China. "Well, I don't have much more to say, but go ahead."

Draco nodded and pulled out a notepad from his bag, lifting his hand and spelling his purple quill into his hand. "I apologize that this visit isn't pleasant, however we are in a bit of a rush." He stated, tapping the colored plume against his chin. "Now, during that day, what were you doing?"

Harry sighed, toning them both out. He didn't want to speak and didn't want to hear what would come out of the woman's mouth. He knew that the blonde would fill him in later. An hour passed this way, the Slytherin asking questions and Amelia answering them to the best of her abilities. It was going smoothly until she turned to Harry, her eyebrows quirked up. "Yes?" Harry asked, suddenly toning into the conversation. "What is it?"

"I asked if you are going to go after the group that kidnapped me."

"Oh, no that isn't our goal." Harry shook his head, keeping his tone light. "We just want to make sure that they aren't going to do repeats. As in, the methods they used for capture. It will give us a slight advantage in case they try it with me or Draco."

Amelia nodded, sitting her cup down and grabbing a folded fan. She flicked her wrist and spread it out, using it to cool off her face. "I am sorry if what I said wasn't enough. I swear this is all I know." She stated, crossing her legs and leaning back in her chair. "Now, if you two are finished I have some guests arriving in the hour."

Draco nodded and stood, knowing a dismissal when he heard one. "Of course, thank you for your time. Maybe in the future we might meet under more pleasant circumstances." He packed up his things and bowed, waiting patiently for Harry to get himself situated.

"I hope so. Have a nice evening you two." Amelia called out, turning and staring out into her garden as the two men disappeared from view.

"Well, that didn't take to long." Harry commented, following the blonde out of the manor. "I am glad that she didn't ask me anything that would cause the both of us to lose our temper." He sighed and grabbed a handful of Floo powder, smiling at the blonde. "I did good, yeah?"

"Let us hope that the next one will be the same." Draco drawled, dipping his fingers into the jar that sat beside him. "Ready?"

"Ready."

With a burst of flame they disappeared, leaving the manor behind.

O0O

Harry moaned, shifting his head back and forth and jolting awake when he felt rough stone instead of a soft pillow. He sat up quickly, frowning when all he saw was wisps of smoke that seemed to curl in the air around him. He slowly stood, eyeing the dark air around him. Unease shivered up his spine, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end.

Harry glanced up and down, blinking when all he saw was a patch of pebbled beach underneath his feet. He bent down and touched the smooth stones, suddenly freezing as he felt a presence at his back. "Whose there?!" He shouted, wincing at his voice. It sounded like he was speaking three times at one, the echo wavering and weaving around him endlessly. "Show yourself!" He growled angrily, grinding the heel of his foot into the pebbles beneath him. With a pause and a huff he began to walk, his spine tingling with every step.

Long moments stretched by, the void around him ever moving. The silence that surrounded him made him grit his teeth, his eyes narrowed as he gazed thought he black smoke. Frustration began to build when all he encountered was more smoke and coiling fog, the emptiness spanning as far as Harry could see.

Harry paused, throwing his arms out as he lifted his head. "Can anyone hear me?!" He screamed, his voice booming and echoing around him. He growled when nothing happened, about to just lay down and hope for the best when a shiver raced up his spine.

"I can."

Harry gasped, turning quickly. Cold terror filled him as the shadow that followed him everyday stood in front of him. He cried out and backpedaled, trying to create distance as the figure simply loomed in front of him. "You spoke!" Harry exclaimed, shock and fear and anger rushing through him in a blaze of emotion.

"I can."

"Stop that!" Harry growled, raising his hands and gripping his hair. "Don't come near me!"

The shadow stood still for a moment before walking forward, coping what Harry was doing as if it was the surface of a mirror. "I can't." The shape muttered, its voice slowly changing and becoming an echo of Harrys.

The Gryffindor gaped, horrified as he heard his own voice speak back at him. "Stop it!" He shouted, throwing his hands up and growling when the figure copied him immediately. It was as if strings were attached to Harry and every movement was then mirrored in unison with his. "I don't care what you are, I want you to leave me alone!"

"I can't." The shadow replied, the strange echo from before ringing through its voice. It didn't move save for what Harry did, its shape shivering with static darkness. "Harry."

Harry screamed, all the anger and fear that flooded him causing him to lunge. Just as his hands reached for the shadow, so did the figure towards him. Right when the two were about to touch, the darkness around them swelled and swallowed them.

O0O

HELLO! I am on a roll with this story! i also have to more in the works. but that will be a surprise for later! i hope you guys enjoyed it. i loved writing it. next chapter will be somewhat spicy but also sad. so get ready for the whiplash. Love you guys!