A/N Heyyy. Sorry this took a little longer than planned but here it is! This chapter is extremely long so enjoy that. And kinda angsty so beware. Oh, and this is where the whole story becomes AU so it's not really following canon anymore. After this chapter I'm writing Year 7 and then an Epilogue. Next chapter should take about 2-3 weeks and I'll put the update date in my bio if you feel like checking. Anyway thanks for reading and reviewing! I love reading the reviews sm lol.

Happy Reading :)

Dear Potter,

The dark lord is inside my house. I got home, and there he was, sitting at my dining table like it was completely normal for him to welcome me home. I'm so scared I feel like passing out. I can't breathe, I can't think. Why is he here? In my house. He smiled at me and I let out a squeak before sprinting upstairs. I half expected him to murder me as I ran away or curse me, or I don't know. Do something. But he let me go. And now I'm sitting here, shaking and trying to think about something else. I know now that my father is in Azkaban. I missed my mother's first letter about that. I know that you're the reason he's there. And I mean, I feel like I should miss him. But I don't really. I won't be getting any more letters about doing better in school, or trying to get you expelled. Maybe, for once I can have a somewhat normal year without my father's expectations hanging over me. Although that is probably not true because for some unknown reason the dark lord is in my house. And-

There was a sharp rapping on Draco's door and he quickly shoved the letter under a book.

"Come in." he called, trying to keep his voice steady. His mother came in, looking pale and shaken.

"Draco." she began, her voice quavered and she glanced over her shoulder. She shut the door silently and sat on his bed, drawing in a breath. Draco studied her face for any sign of what was going on.

"Your father has displeased the dark lord greatly and-and he needs you to carry out a task for him. To bring-" She broke off, choking on the words. He reached a hand out to comfort her but she stood abruptly. She began pacing the length of his room.

"To bring back favor, for our family. And you need to take the dark mark, so the dark lord knows he can trust you." Draco thought he had known terror before, but nothing compared to the way his stomach plummeted in this instance. His chest grew tight at the look on his mother's face. What would happen to her if he didn't take it and carry out the dark lord's plan?

He nodded, not trusting himself to speak. A tear traced itself down her cheek.

"I'm so sorry." she mouthed. Perhaps the dark lord was listening to this very conversation.

"When?" he asked, after a long silence.

"Now, if that's alright." She said quietly, not meeting his eyes. Draco guessed he didn't have much of a choice.

"That's fine." he said, swallowing hard. His heart was pounding so hard he wouldn't have been surprised if everyone could hear. She pulled him into a hug before motioning towards the door. Together they walked down the stairs. Towards the dark lord. He was still seated eerily at the table, tracing his fingers along the smooth wood of it. He was so pale, nothing about him was human.

"Draco." He said softly, not even bothering to look up.

"Yes my lord?" he asked. He clenched his hands into fists to stop himself from making a beeline out of the room.

"You will take the mark." It was not a question, and every word was drawn out extremely slowly, as if he was daring Draco to say no.

"Of course my lord." He tried nodding to make it seem more convincing. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see his mother shaking. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears.

"Come." The dark lord stood from his seat and turned to face them, his red eyes narrowing in on them. Draco walked unsteadily towards him, already pushing up his sleeve. As soon as he got within arms reach of him, the dark lord roughly grabbed Draco's arm and placed the tip of his wand to it. Draco didn't have time to think what would happen before a sharp, stabbing pain was making its way up his arm and the mark was spreading over it. He nearly passed out from how badly it hurt, and looked quickly away when he saw it. It was disgusting. He would never be able to get rid of it. It was always going to be there, taunting him. And he couldn't do anything about it.

Dear Potter,

Sorry about my last letter. I was interrupted by my mother and the dark lord asking me to take the mark. No, I'm not joking. That was actually what happened. I'm a fucking death eater. I hate everything. At least he's gone for now, I have no idea where he went and I couldn't care less. I have the house to myself right now actually. Mother and my Aunt have gone somewhere, Aunt Bellatrix looked like she was trying to stop my mother from doing something but I couldn't imagine what. My Aunt was terrifyingly thrilled that I had "finally" accepted the dark mark. You should've seen the way her eyes gleamed when I showed her the new mark on my arm. I could hear my mother crying half the night after I was branded. I sat here and pondered my new task. I have to kill Dumbledore. The headmaster. The dark lord wants me (ME) to kill the most powerful wizard in the world. I am fairly sure he has given me this task so that I can fail. There is no way in the entire wizarding world that I could kill him. First of all, I don't want to. And secondly, even if I did, there is literally no way I could. I mean, he's Dumbledore. He's on chocolate frogs and has entire volumes written about him and his achievements. I, a 16 year old boy, am somehow supposed to murder him? No, no of course not. This is a punishment for my father's failure in getting something done for him. So naturally I am the one who faces the consequences. I wonder how my family got involved with the dark lord in the first place. Not that it matters now. I'm already stuck in this fate so there's no use thinking about everything that could've been. Well this has been depressing. I think I will mope around and try not to think too hard.

Sincerely,

Your worst enemy

Draco was constantly worrying these days. It was all he could do really. In his mind there were no loopholes. There was absolutely nothing he could do to get out of this situation. So he worried. Every single second he worried. About every single damn thing. And he could no longer send letters to Pansy and Luna because the mail was being watched. He would have to wait until they got onto the train to tell them. Which was quickly approaching and he still had not figured out exactly what he was supposed to do in this dreadful situation. Eventually his mother told him that they would need to go to Diagon Alley for some new robes and his books when a rather brilliant idea struck him. He would simply pretend to kill Dumbledore until he could think of an actual solution. He would pretend he was trying but not able to succeed. And surely after he bought himself a couple months he would've thought of a real plan. A real plan in which no one got hurt and perhaps the dark lord ended up dead.

Steeling himself he decided the first thing to be done was to go to Borgin and Burkes and pretend to be very interested in some dark sort of items. He managed to escape his mother well enough, but what he hadn't anticipated was Potter and his two friends following him. He had first seen them in the robe shop, and all three of them had stared at each other for a solid ten seconds before Draco hurried out and left his mother behind.

He had thought they would've left him alone after that, but he soon learned he was mistaken when soon after he had entered Borgin and Burkes. Out of the corner of his eye he glimpsed three unmistakable shadows. Damn. Of course the golden trio had followed them. No matter, they had no way of finding out what he was doing.

Draco swept his eyes over the shop and his eyes settled over the old magic wardrobe. This was the same one Montague had disappeared through, right?

"There's another one like this, do you know how to fix it?" He asked, turning to face Borgin. He didn't look very happy.

"Possibly." They stared at each other and Draco raised his eyebrows, questioning.

"I'll need to see it though. Why don't you bring it to the shop?"

Draco put a finger to his lips and thought quickly. He couldn't bring a wardrobe all the way from Hogwarts, that would be extremely suspicious.

"I can't. It needs to stay where it is. Can't you just tell me how to do it?" he asked, his eyes flickering briefly to the shadows.

Borgin was silent for a moment before sighing. "I suppose, but it won't be easy." All the better, hopefully it was so complicated it would take most of the year.

"I can do it." Draco nodded eagerly. Borgin narrowed his eyes at him and searched his face. Draco quickly drew up his mental shields. He didn't know if Borgin knew occlumency but he did not want to take any chances.

"Alright then."

"Great." Draco almost smiled, then realized that was probably a bad idea. "I have to be off, and keep this safe for me please?"

"Yes." Borgin said through gritted teeth.

Draco nodded at him swiftly and turned to go.

"Oh, and don't mention this to anyone. Even my mother." Draco said, glancing back. Borgin glanced upward before bowing and replying.

"Naturally." He said in a low voice. Draco hurried out of the shop and tried not to look pleased with himself. Even though he was. Because perhaps he wouldn't end up dead after all. He decided to stay hidden in an alcove for a few moments to see what Potter and his friends would do. He could hear them arguing and then seconds later Granger appeared out of the shadows. He held his breath, praying she didn't see him. Her eyes were bright, and almost wild looking as she strode into the shop. He heard muffled talking inside the shop, but after only a brief minute or so she came back out, looking dejected and rather embarrassed.

"Ah well, worth a try but you were a bit obvious-" Weasley said. Granger and Weasley broke into an argument and Draco was puzzled when he heard nothing of Potter. Where had he gone? Surely he was still with them.

"Malfoy." said a voice in his ear. He screamed, not bothering to hide his shock and terror.

"It's just me. I'm not gonna-"

"I can't see you." He interrupted, trying to keep the panic out of his voice.

"Oh, er-It's Harry." After a beat. "Potter." Well duh Potter. How many Harry's did he know?

"Oh. What are you doing?" It was odd to have a conversation when you couldn't see the person you were talking to. It was also much easier.

"I saw you, and I wanted to talk."

"About what?" Draco snapped, not really understanding why he was feeling annoyed. He didn't say anything for a while and Draco started to wonder if he had left.

"Nothing really. I was just thinking about…" He trailed off and there was silence once more.

"About what?"

"That day. In the corridor." Draco sucked in a shallow breath and wished he could see Potter's face. He wanted to know just how close he was to him. Draco took an uncertain step forward.

"And?" His heart was pounding and his stomach swirled in excitement.

"What did it mean?" He wished desperately that he could see his face so that he could pull him into another kiss to show him exactly what it had meant to him.

"I-" Draco started. Then warm hands pulled him closer and Draco couldn't think of anything else to say. He was shaking again. And he knew Potter was too. He reached a hand to run his fingers through Potter's hair, however he immediately yanked it back when he heard voices. Granger and Weasley. Of course.

"Harry?" Granger called. The warmth of his hands vanished, but not before giving Draco's shoulder a squeeze.

"I'm here. Just thought I saw something." The two of them appeared and Potter slipped out from the alcove to join them.
"Bloody hell mate, mum thought we'd lost you."

"Sorry." Draco could hear the sheepishness in Potter's voice from here. After the three of them had vanished from sight Draco dragged himself out from the alcove and tried not to look too depressed. He didn't want his mother asking what was wrong. Because. Everything. Everything was wrong and Potter was confusing and he was still a death eater.

Dear Potter,

The dark lord came to my house again to remind me of my task. As if I could forget. I don't know how you're able to say his name. I can hardly talk in his presence. I'm actually rather surprised he didn't kill me after how much I stuttered. It was just him and I this time, and that made the whole thing much more terrifying. Aunt Bellatrix practically leaped into the room after he had left and gave me a hug. Which was extremely disturbing. She's over the moon that I've gotten the "opportunity" to do this task. It's as if she's pretending she doesn't know the whole thing is a punishment for my father's failure. She kept giving me tips on how to slyly murder people and Potter, she had this excited look in her eye that made me realize just how many people she has killed. I'm living in a house with two murders. I'm guessing it would've been three if my father was still around. Well at least I can go to Hogwarts now. I have never been more thrilled in my entire existence to get away from this place. I cannot wait to be out of his presence and free to actually talk to my friends again. I know I could still talk to you, but you don't count. We're not friends. We're worst enemies (who kind of sort of are in love with each other maybe?). Oh, my mother's calling. She sounds sad. I am leaving her alone with the dark lord and her...sister. I better go.

Sincerely,

Draco Malfoy

Draco practically flung himself into the barrier after waving goodbye to his mother. He was free. Not forever. And for who knew how long, but he was free for now.

"Draco! Draco get your ass over here we've been worried sick!" Pansy called from where she was standing with Theo. Some of Draco's excitement started to fade away at that. He had hardly spoken to Theo since he had kissed him under the mistletoe. Draco shook himself, these were his friends and he owed them some sort of explanation.

"Er, hi. Sorry about not getting back to you." Draco said with a small shrug. Pansy shook her head and glanced around to make sure no one was listening.

"Is it true? Is he really staying at your house?" she asked in a hoarse whisper. Draco stiffened, then nodded quickly.

Theo let out a small gasp and Pansy turned pale. They looked horrified. Draco shared in the sentiment.

"I'm sorry." Theo said.

"Not your fault, but thanks." Draco replied, staring at his shoes.

"We better get on the train." Pansy said, her voice shaky.
"Right." Together the three of them walked onto the train. Pansy and Draco waved to Theo as they slid into the Prefect's compartment. Draco bounced his knee up and down as he waited for the signal that they could go sit with their friends. He needed to find Luna and tell her what had happened. Not what had actually happened obviously, but bits and pieces to explain his disappearance over the summer. Weasley and Granger kept glancing at him, and he started to get rather annoyed by it. Why did they always have to stare at him like he was some sort of puzzle that needed piecing together? He was not a puzzle. He was a death eater in love with Harry Potter. Once the headboy and girl had come to tell them they could leave, Draco leapt up and hurried out the compartment door. He had to find Luna. Would she be with Theo and Blaise or...Potter. She was probably with Potter, because Ginevra was there. And now wherever Ginevra went, Luna went. Muttering under his breath he stalked down the train, looking left and right until he could find Luna. Finally he skidded to a stop when he spotted them. Luna, Ginevra, Longbottom, and Potter. Obviously. Luna was swinging Ginevra's hand back and forth, yet she did not look blissfully happy. She was chewing her bottom lip and kept glancing out the window. Draco stood there for a few more moments, wondering exactly what he should do when she turned her head and realized he was there. Her eyes widened and she quickly flew out of her seat and shut the compartment door behind her. He had a second to view everyone's confused glances, and Potter's flushed face, before Luna yanked him down the hall.

"Umph." She dragged him until they were near the front of the train.

"Where the fuck have you been?" she demanded. Draco blinked and drew back.

"I'm sorry, hey it's okay." Tears had started to pool from her eyes and she wrapped her arms around herself.

"I thought you might be dead. I heard-I heard things over the summer, and I worried for you and when you didn't respond…" She choked off and pushed him weakly. "Why didn't you respond?"

He rapidly blinked back tears of his own. "It's a long story, but our mail was being watched."

"He was really staying at your house." Dismay wrote itself all over her face.

"Er-yeah. But, I'm here now. And I'm gonna figure something out."

She blinked and turned her head a little. "Figure out what?" He winced, he would need to be more careful with his words.

"I can't tell you everything anymore Luna." He said softly, trying to say it as gently as possible. She sighed and suddenly she no longer looked 15.

"I know, you're just trying to protect me."

He nodded, "Yeah, hopefully all of this is over soon."

"It won't be." she said darkly.

"You're supposed to be the positive one." he protested. She stared at him with a grim expression on her face.
"I'm merely being truthful." she replied, crossing her arms.

"Er-tell me something happy?" he asked, trying to break the dark mood.

Her upper lip twitched.

"Ginevra asked me to be her girlfriend this summer." she said, all of a sudden grinning. A blush was also creeping up her neck and she rocked back and forth on her heels.

"That's amazing, and you're happy right?"

"Of course! She's brilliant and amazing, and oh my goodness her hair is so soft and nice to touch." Luna giggled and the sound was bright and bubbly. A sharp contrast to her tone only moments ago.

"I'm so happy for you." he grinned at her.

"Thanks." she smiled. "I better get back, do you wanna come sit with us?" And for a moment Draco thought about saying yes. He imagined that he was Potter's boyfriend and he would be reuniting with him after a long summer apart. They would kiss and then he would hold Potter's hand and smile like an idiot for the rest of the train ride.

"You okay?" she asked, looking concerned.

"Er-yes. Yes to being okay. And no I can't go sit with you guys, I'm sorry."

"Why not? I'm sure Harry would be thrilled." She smirked and it actually scared Draco quite a bit.

"No, no I don't want to intrude."

She rolled her eyes. "He's been talking about you for like half the train ride you know."

Draco let out a small sound. "He was-he was, talking about…" he swallowed.

"Yes! Yes, he was talking about you. That's what I just said." She groaned. "Come onnnnn. What's the worst that can happen?"

Everything. Anything. He could not go in there and sit next to Potter. Yes he would very much like to, however he was a death eater. And it was dangerous to be anywhere near Potter now.

"No, I should go sit with the others." Draco said sadly.

She waited for a moment before responding. "I knew you would say that."

There was someone else in the car. He'd heard thumping above them and nearly sprinted out of the car. He was always easily scared these days. He had been about to leave with the others but then glimpsed a flash of a shoe. Potter's shoe. Damn it. How did he know what Potter's shoes looked like?

"You go on, I've got to check something." he muttered to his friends.
"Alright." Pansy said, her brows coming together in confusion.

He waited until they were all alone until he spoke.
"I know you're there Potter." After a rustling from above Potter was in front of them, holding a silvery looking blanket. Wait a second.

"Is that an invisibility cloak?" he asked, eyes widening in amazement.

"Er, yeah." Potter said sheepishly. He was turning red and Draco found that extremely adorable. Shite. He was losing it again.

"Why'd you come in here?" Draco fiddled with his robes to give his hands to something to do.

"I wanted to talk." Potter said, rubbing a hand on the back of his neck.

"About what exactly?" he asked, trying to remain cool and not completely lose it in front of him.

"You know what Draco." He took a step forward.

"What does it matter now?"

"Of course it matters, I can't stop thinking about it!" Potter also drew near him and Draco tried his best not to look like he was about to pass out.

"You can't?" Was the only thing that came out of his mouth. And damn him. He sounded hopeful. Because he was damnit. He was so hopeful that Potter had actually enjoyed the kiss.

"This-this is so…" Potter trailed off and Draco noticed how close they were. How close their hands were. Without thinking he threaded his fingers through Potter's and relished in how warm his hands were. How their fingers fit perfectly together. How Potter's hand was rough against his smooth one.

"So?" Draco asked breathlessly. Potter placed a hand on the small of his back and drew him even closer. Draco couldn't breathe. He was going to pass out on top of Potter because of how fast his heart was going. Could one go into cardiac arrest from feeling so much at one time?

Draco leaned in, not even thinking anymore, only knowing that Potter's lips were mere inches away from his now and with a single second he could part them.

"Unbelievably excellent."

Draco smiled a little. Potter thought that they were unbelievably excellent.

"Well…" Draco placed his free hand on Potter's face, feeling brave. "I think so as well."

"Really?" Potter was grinning like an idiot and so was Draco. What was happening. He was so happy, so happy, so happy he couldn't think. Draco nodded and was fully intending to lean in when a gasp broke them apart. It was his cousin. Tonks.

"My eyes. I'm sorry, I don't know what's going on. This burns, oh my, oh Merlin, oh shite. Harry and-and my asshole cousin. Ew, ow. Guys-" She was staring at them with eyes as large as plates, her hands clasped over her mouth. Draco realized they were still holding onto each other. Draco could feel his face burning, and he was sure Harry felt the same sentiment. Awkwardly they stepped away from each, looking in opposite directions now. Of course she had to come right when they were about to kiss.

"Did I just see what I thought I saw?" she asked, shaking her head back and forth. Harry cleared his throat but said nothing. There wasn't really anything they could say at this point. She had seen them- Draco felt light headed all of a sudden. She had seen them holding each other close and smiling, like lovers. Except that wasn't what they were. At least not right now because she had interrupted them.

"I'm gonna take that as a yes then." she sighed and looked tired all of a sudden. "Look, I won't tell anyone, alright? Just please, please be careful." She massaged her temples and groaned. "Come on Harry, everyone's been wondering where you went. And Draco too, Snape was looking for you." Tonks turned her eyes upwards and heaved a great sigh.

"Right…" Potter glanced at him and smiled uncertainly at him. Draco felt himself turn even redder, if that was somehow possible. He smiled back, feeling his mouth twitch upward uncontrollably.

"Oh dear Merlin." Tonks rolled her eyes and stormed the other way. Draco bit back another smile and followed them out of the train. As they were walking Draco wondered if he could hold Potter's hand. Was that okay? Why did Tonks have to come right when they had been about to figure things out? And, what was going to happen to them now?

When they approached the gate Severus looked angrily between the three of them. Uh oh. Draco knew he was going to get another lecture about this sometime soon.

"I found them." Tonks said, arms crossed.

"I can see that Nymphadora."

"I hate that name." His cousin practically growled. Severus said nothing, only staring at Potter. Oh shite. He was trying to legilimence Potter. Draco drew up his own shields but had no way to warn Potter about what Severus was doing. Or...Harry. Could he call Potter Harry now? Draco had so many questions that he needed answered. He was going insane, standing here next to him but not being able to hold him. Severus's eyes snapped to Draco and he gulped. He certainly did not look happy for Draco.

"Come." Severus said in a low voice.

"I can take-"

"I will bring them to the castle."

Draco felt his stomach tighten. He wanted to go back to a few minutes ago when he had been about to kiss Potter. He did not want to go inside the castle where there would be responsibilities and consequences and dark lord shite.

Dear Potter,

I don't remember much of what happened at the feast. Only that Severus was glaring at me most of the time. Not that I blame him too badly. I know deep down he only does these things because he cares. Even though he often pretends he doesn't, he does. Anyway I hope we get a chance to meet again soon. I wonder what you're thinking right now. I'm scared that you thought it was all a mistake, but then again, why would you keep seeking me out? It doesn't make any sense. You're a very confusing person Potter (Harry? Can I call you that now?) And I want to know what's going to happen with us. I have so many things I should tell you. Like that I'm a death eater. And that I've fallen hopelessly in love with you and I believe you might actually feel some sort of affection for me. Oh I had something to tell you. Severus is very very very veryyyy pissed at the both of us. He made me come to his office to yell at me. I thought he was going to start crying. He was so angry. I mean he didn't look like he was going to cry but I just had this feeling that he was scared and angry and sad. He doesn't want either of us to die I suppose. And he seems extremely worried that this will put the both of us in danger. And he's right. But both of us already have targets on our backs. So what's the point of making it through this whole thing without even living? The whole point is, we feel this way for each other and there's a good chance we both will be dead soon. Why not try then?

Sincerely,

Draco (Your maybe boyfriend?)

The very next day Potter dragged him behind some curtains. Draco had been alone, intending to go to the library to do some thinking about his situation. Er-or about Potter. That seemed to be where his thoughts always wandered anyway. Then suddenly a familiar rough hand had pulled him behind heavy curtains. And Draco hadn't been scared, he had been thrilled.

"Hey." Potter whispered, his breath pleasantly brushing Draco's face.

"Hi." Draco said, feeling warmth spread all over him.

"So, I think I like you." It took a shit ton of self control for Draco to not scream and jump up and down. He wanted to fling himself into Potter's arms and cry. Harry Potter liked him.

"I like you too." Understatement of the fucking century.

"Er, do you think we could just do this in secret?" Potter asked hesitantly. Draco felt his heart drop a little but he knew it was a good thing Harry had asked that. (He was going to call Potter Harry now and no one could stop him) After all who knew what the dark lord would do if he got word of his death eater and Harry Potter kissing in the middle of the great hall.

"Yeah, yeah of course." Draco nodded, slipping his hand into Harry's.

"Thanks-" He had been about to say something else but Draco couldn't wait any longer. He kissed Harry Potter this time. And it was just as perfect as the first. It was as if their mouths were made for each other, they melted into each other and Draco was so happy he could scream. He let his fingers wander into Harry's hair and felt the softness of it. He loved his hair so much. He loved everything about this boy.

Harry pulled away gently and said in a rough voice, "You're beautiful." ARGHHHHHHHHH. Draco couldn't do anything except smile and kiss him again.

Voices pulled them apart and both of them glanced at each other, embarrassed.
"I'm gonna go." Harry mouthed, and Draco nodded, trying not to look too disappointed.

He opened his mouth to ask when he would see him again, but Harry had already left him standing alone, hidden behind the curtain. He blew out a slightly frustrated breath and left the curtains after counting to ten.

"Where have you been?" Luna asked, running up to him.
"Er, hey. I was just getting something." Draco stammered, looking above her head.

"Getting something, I see." she grinned.
"Stop that."

"I ran into Harry, his aura is very joyful."

"His aura?"

She waved her hand in the air. "Yes, Draco. His aura. It gets stronger when someone is experiencing strong emotions."

He blinked. "Really? That's a thing?"

"Yes! Yes it is a thing, obviously. Honestly you and Hermione are so alike sometimes."

"Me and Granger?" Draco laughed. "No way."

Luna crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. "Okay, whatever. I think wrackspurts are crowding your brain at the moment. Go clear your mind."

"My mind? Luna what-?"

"Nevermind!" She was already skipping away, swinging her arms in the air.

Dear Potter,

Turns out you're a potions prodigy. Fascinating. I wonder how you did so good in a subject you're normally so terrible at. No offense meant but it was incredible how you beat Granger. She looked very pissed about it. I was a bit too preoccupied to pay much attention to what I was doing. Slughorn seemed rather annoyed with my potion, although I don't really care what he thinks. He's kind of creepy. He collects kids, Blaise told me about it. Who collects people? Apparently him. No matter, I'm just glad I get to have another class with you. Although we haven't talked since then. Which is sad. It's been like two days but it feels like much longer. That's terribly cliche isn't it. Oh well. I can't help it. My emotions have been off the walls bonkers these past few days. First I was overjoyed. Then I was terrified. Then angry. Then depressed. Honestly I don't even know what I'm feeling now. I can't stop thinking about what will happen when (if?) the dark lord finds out. Will he kill me and then my mother? Or will he torture me to find out your secrets? Not that you've told me any. We haven't actually gotten a chance to talk. Just make out. Which was nice, don't get me wrong, but it feels like we should probably discuss what the fuck is going on. I best be off now, Severus wants to talk to me. Can't imagine why.

Sincerely,

Draco

Draco placed the letter with the others and hurriedly slid it under his bed. He glared at Severus's owl as it continued to fix him with it's intense stare.

"I'm coming. You can tell him I'm on my way." He folded his arms and stared back. It didn't even blink.
"Bloody bird." Muttering under his breath Draco shoved his shoes on and stormed out of the dormitory. It was nearly dinnertime and most students were already on their way to the Great Hall. He better not miss dinner for whatever this was. Although some part of him could guess. Potter. It was always about Potter. Or Harry. Harry now he supposed. Shaking himself he brought his hand up to knock on Severus's office door. It swung open before he even could touch it. He drew back, a little scared at what was going to happen.

"Get in here." Snape motioned quickly and Draco did his best to ignore his instincts to run in the other direction. They had already had this conversation. Was there really a need to have it again? Cautiously he entered the office and glanced around. He let out a small sound. Harry was here too, arms crossed and staring at the ceiling. When he saw Draco he stood, chair nearly falling over in the process.

"Sit, both of you." Severus said in a low tone. Heart beating wildly he took a seat next to Harry.

"You both are incredibly stupid."

Draco twisted his hands and glanced at Harry. He seemed rather annoyed and opened his mouth to say something but Draco shook his head a little. Harry caught the motion and stayed silent. Draco never liked to mess with Severus when he was angry.

"Do you know what would happen if the dark lord found out about this?" Severus gestured between the two of them. Draco felt a twinge of annoyance at those words. Of course he knew. He wasn't a child. He wasn't stupid. He was a death eater for Merlin's sake. He knew the consequences one's actions had in regards to the dark lord.

"You-" He pointed at Draco. "Could be killed, or tortured. And you." He whirled on Harry. "He is just another way for the dark lord to hurt you."

Draco could hear Harry's swallow. No one spoke for several moments, then Draco gathered up the courage to ask,

"Well what would you have us do?"

"Stop this immediately." Draco felt as if he had been punched in the stomach. Stop. This. Immediately. But it had not even begun.

Beside him Harry was shaking his head frantically,

"No, sir, you don't understand-"

"Exactly what don't I understand Mr. Potter." said Snape in a low voice.

"We can hide it from Vol-him, I mean. I'll get better at occlumency, or whatever, learn to clear my mind and all that." Harry gushed.

Snape was already shaking his head, "And if that is not enough?"

"It will be, we'll make sure of it. We'll be so careful no one will know I swear." Draco said, nodding his head.

"Yes, we'll do anything."

Snape was silent for a moment, he had turned away and was studying the wall, hands clasped together behind his back.

"No. It's not enough. Go." He motioned for Harry to get out of his office. Harry jumped up, practically shaking with fury, and for a second there Draco thought Harry was going to scream at the man. But instead he walked out in silence and slammed the door behind them.

"Please…" Draco began, and then it hit him. He did not have to do what Severus said. He was good enough at occlumency to hide this from the dark lord. And he would teach Harry to do the same. They could occlude from Severus and the dark lord. If they truly were careful, neither of them would ever know. He didn't say anything else, only waited in what he hoped resembled resolute silence.

"I'm sorry Draco. This is war." War. They were still kids, they shouldn't have to think about war. Without a word Draco stood from his seat and left the room. He glanced around, trying to find wherever Harry had gone to tell him of his plan. After searching the area he realized that Harry was no longer there. No matter, he would tell him later.

Dear Harry

You think I'm bloody brilliant. I'm going to pretend I didn't spend a couple minutes staring at my ceiling in blissful happiness because of what you said. I told you of my plan to hide our relationship (YOU CALLED IT A RELATIONSHIP). And you grabbed my hands and said it was brilliant, that I was bloody brilliant. You also asked me about my blood prejudices. So I told you the truth. They are not mine, they are my fathers. I don't share the same sentiment and I very much wish to unlearn what my father attempted to teach me. You kissed me after I said that, and told me how proud you were of me. I almost passed out on top of you. Harry I don't think I've ever been this happy in my entire life. Yes, many things have brought me happiness. But nothing feels the same as when I am with you. I know we have been together for only a matter of days. So what could I possibly know about relationships? I will admit although I do not know much, I know that you make me so happy I could cry. And maybe I did cry a little when you called me your boyfriend. So what if we're a secret. You're my precious secret to keep. At least until the war is over.

Sincerely,

Draco

For a couple days Draco had forgotten about the problem that should've been in the forefront of his mind. He was a death eater. A death eater who was supposed to kill Dumbledore as soon as humanly possible. And so far he had one very flimsy pretend lead on the wardrobe in the room of requirement. So he was kind of screwed. How was he going to get out of this situation without ending up dead or accidentally killing someone else in the process. For a little while he thought about asking Harry for his opinion on the situation, then realized it was not a good idea to tell Harry that he was a death eater. For one Harry might never talk to him again, and two if someone tried to read Harry's mind that thought would most likely be in the front. Currently Draco was attempting to teach Harry to clear his mind. And…

He was hopeless.

"Just breathe through only your mouth." Draco suggested after several fruitless attempts.

"Does that actually work?" Harry asked curiously, tilting his head.

"Try it." Draco said with a shrug. They were in the room of requirement, which only had two pillows placed on the floor. A very good place to try and clear your mind. But it wasn't working very well for Harry. They had been at this for nearly two hours now and curfew was quickly approaching.

Harry closed his eyes and breathed deeply. Draco resisted the urge to sigh loudly.

"Okay, think of something calm."

"Like what?"

"Er-what makes you calm?"

"You." said Harry, opening one eye. Draco flushed and looked away. They were never going to get anywhere at this rate.

"Anything else?" he tried.

"Flying I guess." Harry closed his eyes again and took another breath. Draco tried to breathe normally as well.

"So think about that, and try breathing again. And I'm going to try and legilimance you."

Harry nodded. Drawing in a quiet breath Draco pointed his wand and whispered,

"Legilimens." He was immediately flung into Harry's mind and memories zoomed past. Damn. His mind was the furthest thing from clear. Then he felt himself come up on a wall. And the memories stopped. He was pushed back into the presence and he immediately grinned.

"Brilliant! You did it." He jumped up and grabbed Harry's hands. Harry pulled him into a hug, grinning broadly.

"I knew you could do it." That wasn't really true but Draco was going to pretend that it most certainly was.

"Thanks for helping me, you're a much better teacher than Snape ever was." Draco felt a pang of guilt at that. He never liked going behind Severus's back.

"He's complicated." Draco finally said. Harry shrugged,

"Suppose you're right."

"Damn, it's 8:30." Draco glanced at the clock that had just appeared on the wall behind Harry.

He was about to suggest they part ways when Harry pulled him into a kiss. He tried not to burst into giggles as Harry tugged him closer and ran his finger down Draco's cheek. He put his hands to Harry's neck, heart beating rapidly. He had never known lips could feel so soft as his parted gently and allowed for Harry's tongue to slip inside. Warmth came over Draco as he kissed Harry back and he tried to breath in the sensation of the moment. They pulled away from each other, both breathing a little harder.
"Goodbye." Harry whispered. Draco swallowed,

"Bye Harry." he whispered back. It was the first time he had called him that to his face. Harry blinked, before a slow smile spread over his face.

"See you Draco."

Dear Harry,

This whole death eater is going to be harder than I thought. And believe me, I was already pretty damn sure it was going to be hard. You see the thing is, Snape is trying to help me, so now I have to have my guard up 24/7. Which is very exhausting. I don't know why he's trying to help me, I mean it's my problem and the dark lord will probably kill him if he ever finds out what he's doing. So why even try? But apparently he made some sort of vow with my mother. And why Harry, why. It's as if they think I can't do this myself. Okay I know, I can't do this myself because I'm trapped. Yet I did find a short term solution and am currently working on the bigger picture. I mean so far the only thing I've come up with is to run away together, but something tells me that isn't the brightest idea I've ever had. The other problem I have is you. I don't like keeping this from you. I don't know if you would understand, or if you wouldn't. I've contemplated telling you just to see what would happen but I don't want you to be put in danger because of me. So I suppose the only thing to do is feel guilty all the time. I wonder if you can tell if something is troubling me. If you can, you haven't asked. Which is a good thing I suppose. It's already hard enough keeping this from you, I don't want to have to lie to your face. Even though I sort of already am. This is stressing me out further. I'm going to think of a solution now.

Sincerely,

Draco Malfoy your "worst enemy"

Blowing out a breath Draco folded the letter and put it away. He wondered if he would ever actually give these letters to Harry. Perhaps when they were older and all this was very far behind them. He didn't know what to do. He was trapped in an ever enclosing box with no perceivable way out. If he pounded his fists on any side, it would topple on top of him and everyone he cared about. He drove the heels of his palms into his eyes and shuddered a shallow breath.

"You alright Draco?" Theo asked. Draco's head snapped up, alarmed. When had he come in?

"I was just-just-"

"You don't have to explain to me." Theo said with a shrug.

"Oh, alright." But Draco found himself wanting to tell him. Because who else could he tell? However before he could open his mouth to spill it, Theo made a stifled sound and grabbed his arm. The one with the dark mark.
"You got it too." Theo breathed, his eyes glistened and he raised the sleeve of his uniform to reveal a twin mark to the one on Draco's own arm.

"I'm so sorry Theo." Draco said. What else could he say?

"Not your fault."

"Still."

"Hey at least we're in this together." Theo said, not quite looking at him. Draco had a feeling they weren't quite in this together, as they had barely spoken in months since that kiss.

"Right." Draco said, twisting his hands together.
"I better go." Theo continued after a moment of awkward silence.

"Okay, see you in potions?" Draco asked, just to give himself something else to say.
"Yeah, of course." Then he was gone and Draco was once more alone with a huge secret.

It was a couple weeks later when Draco learned just how knee deep he was in this hole. It was closing in on Christmas and he had yet to think of anything. Big shocker there. The only thing he had done was continue to work on the wardrobe. The one who's twin lay in Burgin and Burkes. He knew if he somehow got both wardrobes to work again, he could invite some death eaters into the school without anyone detecting. And then from there they could...do something else.

Fuck. So he had nothing. Except an imposing death sentence that was ever approaching as the days continued mournly.

Okay perhaps he was being a tad dramatic. Harry was still his boyfriend after all, and being near him made Draco so bubbly he didn't know how to contain himself. However hiding things from one's significant other was never an easy task. Draco simply did not want to hide things from Harry. He wished he could share every single detail of his life with him, and he wished Harry to do the same. But he was a death eater. Who would probably be dead quite soon.

So he found himself wandering the corridors at night, intending to return to the room of requirement. Not really to work on the wardrobe, the solution for solving it was fairly simple, he merely wanted to sit there so he didn't have to surround himself with people he was constantly lying to. He hadn't expected to get caught as he knew that Slughorn was having his little gathering this evening and students were likely to be around the area. However on his way to the room of requirement he realized too late that Ms. Norris had been tailing him. Bloody cat.

"Shoo, damn. Don't look at me like that." Draco glanced over his shoulder, ready to make a run for it, but he was caught by the back of his beck and he let out a small gasp.

"Ay, student out of bed." Flich said in a low voice. Draco could practically feel his smirk. Honestly, didn't he have anything better to do?

"I was just-just-"

"Spare me, come on then." He dragged Draco towards a lighted room down the corridor, and all too late Draco realized they were headed straight into Slughorn's party. Where Harry was, where Luna was, and Merlin knew who else was there. He blinked as he was pushed into the loud and brightly lit room. His eyes immediately began searching for Harry's, he found Granger's instead. Her eyes widened when she saw him, and she ducked away immediately.

"Why did you bring me here?" he asked, but was ignored.

"Professor Slughorn, I discovered this boy lurking in an upstairs corridor. He claims to have been invited to your party and to have been delayed in setting out. Did you issue him with an invitation?" Draco flushed and tried not to look incredibly guilty. He hadn't been about to do anything terrible after all. What was the point of him being publicly humiliated? What was he supposed to say to this? He hadn't said anything of the bloody sort!

"Er-I was studying late, lost track of time I needed an excuse-"

"Lies!" Draco attempted to wrangle himself out of Filch's grasp but he held on tight.

"That's all right, Argus, that's all right. It's Christmas after all! Poor lad probably needs a break anyway!" Slughorn grinned and raised his glass. Flich shoved him away, grumbled something under his breath, and left the room. Draco rubbed a hand to the back of his neck, and looked cautiously around the room. Could he make a break for it?

"Thanks sir." Draco said awkwardly.

"Why of course! I knew your grandfather after all!" Slughorn seemed to always speak in a disgustingly happy tone.

"Oh, yes I believe he told me that." Draco wasn't paying much attention to the conversation, Harry was nowhere to be seen. How odd.

"I'd like a word with you Draco." Came Severus' stern voice. Shite. He was here too? Finally, Harry came into view. He ducked out from under some curtains, looking puzzled. He mouthed something to Draco but he was no good at reading lips. He settled for gesturing wildly with his hands, not quite sure exactly what he was hoping to convey to Harry.

"Now Severus," said Slughorn with a hiccup. "Don't be too hard-"

"I am his head of house." Severus spoke in a familiar low and dangerous tone. "Come along Draco." He drew up his mental shields and followed Severus out warily.

He led him to an abandoned classroom, and locked the door carefully behind them.
"What were you doing wandering around the castle this evening?" He immediately began, narrowing his eyes on Draco.

He felt a jolt of anger and annoyance. Why did his godfather always have to intrude on everything he did?

"I was working on my task for the dark lord." Draco said coldly, clenching his hands into fists.

"I see. What exactly-"

"I don't need your help! He trusted me with this and I can do it by myself, I don't need your help." Draco repeated, he set his jaw stubbornly and didn't meet Severus' eyes.

"I want to help you, I made the unbreakable vow to your mother and swore I would protect you. The Unbreakable vow Draco." Draco's heart sank. Why on earth would he make the Unbreakable vow? That was a bloody terrible idea. And what exactly had he made the unbreakable vow to do? He opted to say nothing, merely staring at the ceiling in silence.

"I've asked you to come to my office several times of late." It was true. But Draco was tired of being called in to have Severus lecture him about something or other. Lately he wanted to know what Draco had planned, how exactly he was going to accomplish this. And Draco was certainly not about to tell Severus that he had no bloody idea what he was doing. He was simply trying to stay alive, what else was there for him to do?

"I've been busy." Draco said testily.

"Busy." His tone was flat and he spoke almost in a whisper. Merlin, why was Severus always so dramatic?

"Yes."

"You can't simply wander around all night without any sort of plan in mind. Now if you would tell me what you were supposed to be doing maybe then-"

"I've got it under control." he snapped, temper flaring. Could he get away with just leaving the room?

"It's Potter." Severus pressed his lips tightly together and shook his head. "You're distracted, I can tell." Well, okay. It was Potter. But not in the way he thought.

"No, it's not."

"Don't lie to me." That was enough for Draco to turn and leave the room. He practically broke into a sprint as he flung the door open, and ran down the corridor. Some part of him expected Severus to come chasing after him and curse him. Then force him to listen to everything he had to say. What Severus didn't understand was that they no longer wanted the same thing. Draco wanted to be free of this burden, to live a normal life with Harry. He wasn't going to kill Dumbledore if he could help it.

Dear Harry,

You're gone and I'm here at Hogwarts for Christmas. I was not about to go home only to find You-Know-Who in my bedroom. Probably not in my bedroom, I mean I sure hope not but who knows where he goes. Anyway the point is, that I'm not about to go face the dark lord once more and have him murder me once he realizes that I have done absolutely nothing. (Not nothing actually but perhaps he'll get to excited and break into Hogwarts or something, I don't fucking know.) So now I'm here. Luna stayed, and so did Blaise, but everyone else has left. And Severus is here as well but I've barely talked to him. I feel bad for walking out on him, I guess he is trying to help in his own twisted way. I don't want to believe he's the bad guy now but isn't he? You told me that Severus was supposedly a spy for the dark lord, however you didn't quite buy it. I'm not really sure what to think of him anymore to be perfectly honest. I didn't want to talk about this when I started this letter. My letters always get so insanely rambly I shouldn't be surprised this is the direction I headed in. It feels like I can tell you anything. Although not really, because I'm not actually talking to you. I'm talking to myself pretending I'm talking to you. I'm a very complicated person Harry, I'm not sure how you like me. Even though I'm extremely glad that you do.

Sincerely,

Draco 3

Once all the students had gotten back, Draco was trying not to look too eager as he sat with Luna in the library. It was taking nearly all of his self control not to run outside and snog Harry in front of everyone. Which was a terrible idea, he knew this very well, but he could certainly dream.

"Draco, Draco, your head is practically buzzing, it's distracting." Oops. He was supposed to be helping her finalize a potions essay. Not that he'd been much help so far. He was way too excited.

"Sorry, I've just been doing a lot of thinking lately." She frowned and tilted her head.

"Is everything okay with you?"

Er-not quite. He was a very bizarre mix of devastated, worried, and blissfully happy. He settled for a nod, not really trusting himself to speak. Her brows furrowed together, as if she was thinking very hard.

"You sure? You can always talk to me, you know."

"I know, but I'm fine really. How are you-" And Ginevra, he had been about to say. But then Harry walked in, head whipping around and Draco realized with a jolt he was probably looking for him. He stood and nearly knocked Luna over in the process. She whipped her head around to see Harry standing there, staring at Draco with a small smile on his face, his cheeks red.

"OH MY FUCKING MERLIN!" Luna had fallen out of her seat, making a loud clang as her chair went down with her. She scrambled to her feet, head whipping back and forth between the two of them. Her mouth was soundlessly shaping the words you-you-you over and over again.

"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?" Madam Pince bellowed, coming into view. All three of them immediately stiffened.
"My fault, Madam." Luna piped up after a moment. "I thought I saw a rat, they scare me quite a bit you see. But it was just Draco's shoe." She blinked a few times and tried a smile.

Madam Pince glowered at them for several seconds before sweeping away with one nasty look back. Harry was standing stiffly, rocking back and forth.

"Oh bloody hell, come on you two." Luna swung her book bag over her shoulder and dragged Draco by the hand, motioning Harry to follow them out of the library. She tugged Draco into an abandoned classroom and waited impatiently for Harry to enter. She kicked the door shut and turned to face them.

"How could you not tell me!" She yelled, gripping her hair in frustration. "I had to think you two were still kidding yourselves, coming to me for advice about the other person, it's been driving me insane!"

"Oh, I'm sorry we just didn't want anyone else to be put in danger." Harry said with a sheepish shrug.

"But we're already in danger, there's a war going on, you can't protect everyone. And this was something I wanted to know, you two mean a lot to me I wouldn't tell anyone. She blinked rapidly and looked away.

"I'm sorry." Draco knew he didn't regret it though, they were already taking enough chances as it was. The last thing he wanted was for Luna to be put into danger because of them. She had been the person who was always trying to help him, for once he wanted to make sure he was able to help her.

"It's fine I suppose." Her face quickly broke into a wide smile. "At least you both have stopped acting so stupid."

"Hey!" Harry protested weakly.

"You can't say anything, you know it's true. Back and forth for five years and finally-" She rolled her eyes. "Finally you got together. I always knew it would happen."

"Course you did." Draco said with a fond smile.
"I did! I knew before both of you. Honestly the two of you are so bloody thick sometimes."

She wasn't exactly wrong. Draco was still very stupid for getting himself into this situation in the first place.

Dear Harry,

The only conceivable solution to not dying is to actually go along with the dark lord's plan. It would also require Severus's help, which is quite unfortunate. The wardrobe is nearly fixed, and what I would need to do is send a message to the death eaters to let them know when they can come through. I would then need to tell Severus I can't kill Dumbledore and ask him to do it instead. And after that I would somehow need to get a message to you to tell you about Severus's plan. Following that you would have to go alert Dumbledore to Severus's intent. Assuming all of this somehow works out, all the death eaters would then be inside Hogwarts, probably trying to murder you, or kidnapp you. So then all of us would have to get them out somehow. And that's the extent of my plan. I could tell Dumbledore of all of this right now I suppose, but I'm not really sure that would work. For one I don't think he likes me very much so maybe he would assume that I'm lying. And then you would probably hate me, and so would Severus, and how do I know Dumbledore won't give me up to the dark lord anyway? See this is all very complicated and it's late and I'm getting very tired. I'll see you tomorrow Harry.

Sincerely,

Draco Malfoy who is exhausted but still loves you quite a bit

A few weeks later Harry told him about a funeral that he had gone to the previous night. For a giant spider named Aragog. That certainly had not been what he was expecting Harry to tell him when he said he wanted to tell him something. They were in the room of requirement, their legs tangled together as they sat on the couch that had appeared when they entered.

"Yeah, and I somehow managed to get this memory from Slughorn as well." Harry shook his head. Harry had told Draco some about what Dumbledore was showing him in their private lessons, but not much. And Draco hadn't pushed, he had many secrets of his own after all, he wasn't going to try and force Harry to share his own with him.

"Oh?" Draco situated himself closer to Harry and drew infinity symbols on his right arm. Harry shivered a little then said,

"I was supposed to get it a while ago but I kind of forgot." A blush crept up his neck and Draco bit back a smile.

"Well you got it now."

"True, I think we're one step closer to defeating Voldemort now." Draco flinched at the name. He couldn't understand how Harry could use it so carelessly, especially considering everything. Then he straightened a little.

"Really, do you think he'll be gone soon?" Harry shrugged and sighed.
"I don't know, I hope so but it might take a little while."

"Oh."

"Don't worry though." For a moment Draco thought Harry was going to say something else. He was biting his lip, not meeting Draco's eyes. Instead they settled into a silence and Draco moved even closer so that he could rest his head on Harry's shoulder. Harry laughed a little and put his arm around Draco, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. Draco smiled into Harry's shoulder and rubbed his nose lightly against it. He was going to say something about how blissfully happy he was, but his eyes were drooping and the words grew heavy on his tongue. Before he knew it he had faded away into sleep and so had Harry.

"Draco, wake up love it's morning. We have classes." Harry was whispering gently in his ear. Love. Love. Love.

"Morning?" he asked sleepily, rubbing a hand to his eyes.

Harry shook his head and smiled. "Morning." he repeated. His mouth began to turn down at the corners and he grabbed Draco's arm. The one with the mark. The sleeve had ridden up, exposing the dark mark.

"Is that the…" Harry trailed off in horror, head shaking quickly. "No, no it's fake right. You're not actually one of them?" Draco didn't know what to say, he yanked his arm out of Harry's grasp and pushed his sleeve down. Tears were already springing to his eyes, and his heart was cold with horror.

Harry realized what his silence meant.

"What...I don't understand. I need to get out of here." Abruptly he sprung off the couch and practically ran out the door. Draco made to follow him but the door already slammed shut, nearly hitting Draco in the face. His head was reeling, what did that mean? Fuck. He should've told Harry before they got so far. Maybe if he had told him...what? He wouldn't have been pissed? Of course he would have. Draco was a death eater for Merlin's sake.

"No." he said in a low voice, running both hands over his face. It couldn't be over so quickly. They hadn't been together that long. How could he have screwed it up that fast?

Dear Potter,

You've gone back to pretending I don't exist. This feels like last year after that kiss, except so much worse. I'm sorry, okay? But I had my reasons, I know that fact doesn't excuse me from hiding this from you, believe me I know. I just didn't know what to do. More like I didn't know how to tell you, I was scared you would never look at me the same way again. Though I don't have to worry about that now, you'll probably never look at me for as long as you live. It doesn't feel good to be invisible. Luna doesn't understand what's going on and I don't know what to tell her. She deserves the truth but it will just put her in danger as well. I know you didn't tell her about what I am, or else she would've confronted me by now most definitely. I wonder if you ever will. A part of me wants to tell her, because I know that she will be sympathetic and understanding as she nevers fails to be. I don't like this feeling of loneliness. How could everything go from being so great to being so lonely and terrible? I can't talk to my best friend about what's going on and my (ex) boyfriend won't even glance my way. Not to mention that all of this screws with the extremely flimsy plan that I had come up with. Well I'm not going to think of anything else because really, there is nothing else I can do short of killing Dumbledore myself. I'm just hoping that you don't have me enough to dismiss the truth.

Sincerely,

Your worst enemy once more

"Wait, Malfoy." Granger stopped him as he made to get up from his seat in arithmancy. He froze, slightly scared for his life.
"Walk with me?" she asked quietly, moving to stand next to him. He nodded, jerkily.

"Alright." What could she possibly want? She wasn't going to slap him again was she? Together they walked out of the classroom and turned down the corridor. Instead of going towards the Great Hall she motioned towards an empty alcove. Eyeing her warily he followed. She cast a spell around them and Draco was nothing short of terrified. Was she going to murder him here? No one would hear him scream, everyone would find his lifeless body here-

"Oh don't look like that, I'm not going to do anything." Granger said testily, rolling her eyes.

"Right. What did you want?"

She pressed her lips together and he could practically see her holding back another eye roll.

"I know that you're a Death Eater Malfoy." Draco made a small noise in the back of his throat. Should he make a break for it while he still had a chance?

"Don't worry I'm not going to report you, and neither is Harry. He's not that senseless, he still cares about you."
Draco felt his heart rate pick up. He still cared about him? After everything?

"I-I didn't know how he felt now." he finally said.

Her face softened slightly. "He's a bit stupid at times, I will admit. He's not really ready to accept that you hid all this for a good reason I'm sure. For a while I thought you were actually loyal to Voldemort, but after I did some thinking I realized that couldn't be right." She shook her head and began pacing.

"I kept thinking about it, you could've easily kidnapped him, or let the Death Eaters in but you didn't. Voldemort wanted you to do something but none of us knew what it was, he sent you on some sort of quest and Harry trusted you enough never to pry. He assumed you were just going to ignore Voldemort and then go into hiding with Snape or the order eventually. But I don't think that's true either." She said everything in a rush, making broad gestures with her hands all the while. Now Draco knew why Granger had continued to beat him year after year in every single class. She was a bloody genius.

"Er-I don't know what you want me to say to all that." Draco said haltingly.

"Tell me the truth! I'm going insane over here trying to figure this all out and I can't, and I want to help you but I can't if I don't even know what's going on!"

"I was-" He swallowed thickly. "I was forced to take the dark mark, as a punishment for my father's failures." Granger's eyes grew wide but she said nothing.
"And he assigned me a task, to kill Dumbledore. I couldn't refuse, I knew he'd go after my mother, so I agreed. Obviously I'm not actually going to kill him." He reassured her, after her expression had grown more and more panicked. She nodded,

"Okay…"

The rest of the story came tumbling from his lips after. Every last bit of it. He knew he was putting her in danger by telling her nearly everything. But once he began talking he couldn't stop. The words were flowing out of him, he hadn't realized how desperately he needed to talk about this.

"Oh my...This is quite the predicament." Granger shook her head and resumed pacing. "Okay, okay." She began muttering to herself then stopped to turn and face him.

"Here's what we're going to do." He blinked in surprise, a small kernel of hope growing in his chest.

"We?"

The edge of her mouth tilted upwards. "Yeah, us Malfoy. I'm going to help you so we can all make it out together."
"Thank you, Granger," he said sincerely. He couldn't believe his good fortune in meeting someone like her. Someone who wasn't willing to let him work through everything by himself.

She didn't speak for a few moments, her brows were furrowed and he could tell she was thinking hard about something.

"Don't sweat it. And call me Hermione." She nodded at him firmly.

"Alright then. Draco." He stuck out his hand before he could think twice about it. She grinned and huffed a short laugh before shaking his hand.

Dear Potter,

Hermione Granger truly is the brightest witch of her age. I can't believe she hangs around with you and Weasley all the time (no offense). All this time she was here and we never even talked! Save for the times I would insult her because I was a senseless prat, those don't count alright? Anyway I meant to say that she comes up with the most ingenious plans. Honestly if you and Weasley listened to her more often you wouldn't have ended up in half those deadly scenarios. She told me quite a bit about him, I think she's in love with Weasley. Don't tell her I said that though, I nearly asked her about it but it seems she knew what I was thinking and shot me a deadly look. That's really besides the point though. We might all actually make it out of this alive Potter, how incredible is that! Here's our new and improved plan;

First I'll blab to Severus about how I can't kill Dumbledore, but inform him that other Death Eaters will soon be on their way. After I tell him this I shall send a message to the Death Eaters to come through the wardrobe and into the castle that way the dark lord believes I'm still on his side and doesn't decide to spotaneoulsly murder my mother. Then I'm going to give Granger a signal and she's going to run and inform Dumbledore about Severus's intentions. Although she continues to tell me that Severus has to be on our side I am not so inclined to believe her. This would be one incredibly elaborate scheme for him to be playing. Ah, it hurts my head to think about it. Okay moving on, Granger will inform Dumbledore and he will presumably lock them in the room of requirement. You see this is where the plan gets the tiniest bit fuzzy because the two of us are going to have to work extremely fast. Then he is going to call in the aurors and send them all to Azkaban. (Yay, no more Aunt Bellatrix) And that's the plan. I guess. I am well aware there are a plethora of mishappenings that could occur on the evening of our oh so great plan, however I no longer care. Because now there is a chance that I might make it till next year. And oh! The best part of the plan is that afterwards Granger said I could come home with Severus. Since she continues to believe that he is not actually working against us, we shall see. I hope he isn't a completely terrible person so that I may no longer have to go home and face the wrath of the dark lord. This does mean I will have to figure a way to get my mother safe though but do not worry. I'm sure we can all think of something. Well I have to go meet Luna. Granger said I should tell her about the plan in case something goes horribly horribly wrong.

Sincerely,
Draco Malfoy

The plan immediately went to complete and utter shit. For one thing, they hadn't even been planning to pull the whole thing into motion for a couple weeks. However his dear Aunt Bellatrix had sent him a vast amount of concerning messages regarding the impatience of the dark lord, and both Draco and Hermione thought it best to just do it immediately. The dark lord had begun threatening his mother.

"Okay, okay." Hermione was pacing back and forth shaking her hands out as they went over the plan one last time.

"They're going to be here any second." He said thickly, doing his best to ignore the tightening and swirling of his stomach.
"I know! Merlin." She buried her face in her hands for a moment and moaned. "This was a terrible idea. Maybe we should've just gone to Dumbledore in the first place."

"It's too late for that!" Draco said, not bothering to keep the annoyance out of his voice.

"Obviously." She shot him a dirty look and chewed on her thumb. "I'm going to go warn Harry and Ron, they should know what's about to happen."

He ignored the way his chest ached as she said his name. "Alright then. I'll send you the signal soon." He took out his DA coin and nodded at her.

She took a shuddering breath and squared her shoulders. "Okay then. Be careful." He was about to tell her to do the same but she took off at a sprint before the words had even formed on his lips. He was left alone in the corridor, waiting for the door to the room of requirement to appear. His stomach hurt terribly as the seconds dragged on for hours. This really hadn't been a very good idea. Abruptly a door appeared in the empty corridor and Draco sucked in a shallow breath, waiting for them to appear. Slowly, it creaked open, making a long whining sound as several Death Eaters emerged from behind it. His Aunt Bellatrix among them. Her hair was as wild as ever, and her eyes held the same bloody thirsty glint they usually did.

"Draco! Brilliant, the dark lord will be pleased." She made a hissing noise in the back of her throat and made to embrace him. Draco resisted the impulse to flinch as she flung her arms around him and squeezed tightly.

"Mummy will be proud as well." Her hot breath stung his ear and Draco pulled away quickly.

"Right, yes. Anyway." He gripped the coin in his pocket and rubbed it like Hermione had taught him to.

"Come on boy!" Greyback called, baring his nasty yellow canines. "Show us where he is!" He. Dumbledore.

Draco cleared his throat. Where on earth was Hermione? And where the fuck was Severus? Surely he didn't expect Draco to deal with all these people alone, hell they could all murder him in a heartbeat.

"This way." Draco said roughly, pushing aside Bellatrix to lead them out of the corridor. Now what should he do? Severus wasn't here, Hermione hadn't given him any sort of sign she had alerted Dumbledore, and now he was leading a horde of Death Eaters through Hogwarts. Draco's insides felt frozen, this really had been a bullshit idea. He decided to take them out to the grounds, through a back door not many people often went by.

"Where are we going boy?" Amycus asked, clearly annoyed with Draco.

"To Dumbledore." Draco said simply, making up a rather terrible lie on the spot. To Dumbledore. Yes. That was exactly where they were not going.

"Mmmm." Alecto rolled her eyes and groaned. "The dark lord will not be pleased that this is taking so long. He wanted us to do other business tonight." Her cold voice cut through the wispy night air smoothly. Other business? Besides killing Dumbledore? Wasn't that enough for one night?

"Yes, we're almost there-" Draco broke off as a hooded figure stepped in front of him. He let out a muffled scream and made for his wand.

"It is I! Severus Snape." The drawling voice came from the hooded figure and Severus threw back the hood of his cloak to reveal himself. Shite. Was this a good thing?

"Have you already killed him?" Alecto asked eagerly, even in the dark Draco could see that her eyes were glistening with excitement.

"No, no not yet. Dumbledore has fled the castle it seems." Severus gazed at Draco with an expression that he was unable to read. Fled the castle...What the bloody hell was going on?

"Shall we call the dark lord then?" Bellatrix asked, already clasping her forearm eagerly. Draco could feel his heart pounding in his throat. What had he done?

"Not yet." Each word was drawn out slowly from Severus's lips, every syllable made clear on his tongue. Not yet. As all of them headed back to the castle, Draco continued to check the coin when he hoped no one was looking. Finally he felt the coin grow warm and he stiffened. Now didn't seem like a very good moment for him to whip out the coin and read the message.

"Why do you look so down Draco?" His Aunt asked with a laugh, she came over to him and squeezed his shoulders all too tightly. "We are about to make history!" She threw her head back and let a laugh bubble out of her chest. Oh sweet Merlin he was so fucking screwed.

"I'm not. Down. Not at all. This is me being happy." He tried a smile but was sure he only succeeded in looking constipated.

"Gone soft that one." Amycus nodded somberly at Draco. "Bet he doesn't want to kill Dumbledore." Draco tried to make a sound of annoyance, though it came out as more of a squeak.

All the Death Eaters began laughing to themselves before Severus hissed at them to be quiet, they were nearing the castle once more.

"Wait by the door. Don't make a sound." Severus said in a quiet voice before pulling Draco aside. In a voice so low Draco almost could not hear he said,

"Go hide, I will find you when it is done." Draco nearly vomited on the spot. Did that mean…

"You're going to kill him?" His voice shook even as he tried to keep it steady. Severus looked pained for a moment so briefly Draco almost didn't catch it. But it was there nonetheless.

"Yes." His voice was hoarse and to Draco's horror he realized his eyes were glistening. Oh dear. Emotions. Now was when he was going to show emotions? Was he supposed to hug him? What-
"Go." Severus said gruffly, giving Draco a push then a nod towards the empty corridor. Draco nodded hastily and waved a pitiful goodbye before breaking into a run to find Hermione. He yanked the coin out of the message and tried to ignore the pitfalls of his stomach as he read the message.

E.

That's what the message said. Shite. The only thing Granger had to say about this whole situation was shite. Which was true, clearly, but bloody unhelpful. He ignored the stitch in his side as he flung himself down the stairs. Honestly he was surprised Filch hadn't come running by now. His heart nearly stopped when he saw a hand stick itself out of a classroom and wave furiously.

"Get in!" Hermione's voice hissed. Draco took a long breath to try and get his heart rate to return to normal and hurried into the classroom.

"Where have you been? I sent the signal to you like-"

"Harry and Dumbleodore aren't here." She breathed, shaking her head like mad.

"What?" Draco felt like he was watching this whole scene play from above. This couldn't possibly be happening. How was it possible for so much to go wrong in one night?

"They left! I have no fucking idea where but they're not here and-and, I don't know what we're supposed to do." She sobbed a little, wringing her hands out. Draco wanted nothing more than to join her in sobbing, however he took another shuddering breath and did his best to compose himself.
"Severus left the other Death Eaters there, I don't know what he's planning but he must be thinking of something." He said, trying to convince himself that Severus was actually on their side.

"You saw Snape!" She turned to him and gestured for him to elaborate.

"Well we couldn't really talk much because the Death Eaters were there, but he told me to go hide. I don't really know what that means though…"

"Hide. He wanted you to hide. From what? Oh this is terrible, we have to tell a Professor." Her face was tight, he had never seen her like this before. It was scaring Draco to pieces.

"I-Yeah, alright." Maybe if he was lucky he wouldn't get sent to Azkaban. But perhaps he deserved it for causing this mess.

"I'm sorry Draco, I know you didn't want to tell anyone because well...You know. But we don't have any other options! There are literal Death Eaters in the castle!" She buried her face in her hands and grabbed at her hair. "Okay." She muttered to herself. "Okay. Let's go, we should go to Mcgonagall I think."

"Right, probably best. Lead the way." He motioned stiffly towards the door. The pair of them made to leave but stopped when a figure barrowled past. Draco's heart faltered in his chest. That had looked a lot like-

"Harry! Harry stop, we're right here!" Hermione ran after him, giving up completely on the pretense of being quiet. He hurried after her, feeling his insides already begin to heat up. Now was the worst possible moment for him to feel all tingly and mushy inside. He nearly crashed into Granger as he left the room, she was gripping Harry's shoulders and shaking him slightly.

"What happened? Where were you? I tried to come after you, I thought you were with Dumbledore and you were gone-"

"He's dead." Harry croaked, his eyes glassed over, not looking at either of them. His expression was vacant, haunted.
"Whose dead Harry?" Hermione tried to get him to come into the classroom they had just left, but he tugged his arm out of her grip. He was shaking, Draco realized. His hands were clenching and unclenching and he continued to rub his nails against the skin of his thumbs.

"Dumbledore, Snape murdered him." His voice was flat as he rubbed a hand against his nose. "He's dead." He repeated. Hermione had gone rigid.
"No, no no no. Snape was-he was supposed to be-shite. We need to find Mcgonagall he's going to let the Death Eaters in, Draco." She made to face him, even though he could not see her expression clearly in the dim light he could tell that she was bloody terrified.

"Death Eaters?" Neither of them said anything to that. They had really gone and fucked this one up. They had put everyone in the castle in danger. These people were ruthless, they wouldn't care who they hurt in getting what they wanted done. Other business...Exactly what other business did they intend to get done tonight?

"We have to tell Mcgonagall." Hermione replied. "We're wasting too much time just standing here doing nothing."
Both of them nodded but kept silent.

"Okay." Hermione whispered to herself and broke into a run down the corridor. Draco gave Harry a glance before following after her, even now his heart was pounding softly in his chest, the way it always did whenever Harry was around. They were nearing Gryffindor tower when a huge crash echoed through the castle and bone chilling screaming began.

After that everything happened very fast. The three of them were thrown to the floor by a big blast and students and teachers began pouring out of the walls.

Everyone was screaming run run run run but Draco couldn't move. He could only blink in horror as Severus stood over him and offered him a hand. His arm was no longer his own as it raised itself and placed it's hand into Severus's.

"Run." Severus placed his hands on both sides of Draco's face and nodded solemnly. It was the most affection Severus had ever shown him. Hell it was more affection than his own father had ever shown him. He didn't know what to think anymore. Who was this man? Why did he kill Dumbledore but continue to show Draco tenderness?

"Go." This time he pushed Draco away from whatever was happening. People were still screaming and duels had broken out everywhere.

"FIND HIM!" Bellatrix was screaming from atop the Slytherin table. Him. She had to be talking about him. Harry and Hermione had disappeared in the chaos, and he wanted to search for them...yet the thought of Bellatrix finding him and pressing her wand to his throat had already burned itself into his brain. And he was too fucking scared to go looking for them with her right there. So he ran. Again. Intending to find Luna and take her with him. Where, he did not know. Just away. Away from whatever was going to happen. He didn't find her. He was searching the library when Amycus found him and told them they were going home. That the dark lord wasn't going to be happy with him but he would still have earned glory. At first Draco hadn't understood. Glory? Amycus had scoffed and looked at him like he was an idiot. Yes, glory. You're the reason we were able to take over Hogwarts. And fuck, while we were at it we captured Harry Potter.

Draco had vomited on his own shoes at those words. Amycus had rolled his eyes and half dragged, half carried him off the grounds. Draco didn't care. Harry was captured. And it was all his fault.

Dear Harry,

I'm sorry. I didn't mean for this to happen. It was all supposed to work out. I used to think I was an okay person but now I think I must be a monster. I caused all of this. And I don't see how I can fix it. But I'm going to try. I haven't seen you. I've tried, believe me. It's rather that there are death eaters all over my house these days and I don't know how to get past them. I'm going to though. I'm not going to stop until you're out of here safely and you're safe for good. I don't know much about what's going on, though I've heard bits and pieces. Mother doesn't want to tell me anything. I've barely talked to anyone in days, I can't complain I know. I'm sure you have it much worse. I better go. I have to think of some sort of solution. And Harry, for what it's worth, I do love you.

Love,

Draco Malfoy (your worst enemy as always)

It was that same day Draco discovered Harry. It was much easier than he had thought it would be. The house had gone quiet and his mother had come to tell him that they were going to a Muggle village to investigate something or other, she had pressed a brief kiss to his hair before shutting his door with a quiet click. The second he sensed everyone had left he flung open every single door he could think of. He went quiet as he heard a quiet rattling from the dungeons. Damn he was stupid. Of course they would keep him in the dungeons. All of a sudden feeling much less sure of himself he crept down the cool stairs, wand aloft.

"Hello?" he called softly, into the darkness. "Lumos." Light flowed from the tip of his wand to reveal Harry, sitting on the floor, staring at the ceiling. He scrambled to his feet when he saw Draco.
"Draco." He motioned for him to come closer. Harry brought his hands to Draco's face and pressed a kiss to the top of his head through the bars. Draco shivered and grasped his arm.
"I'm sorry love, you need to obliviate me." Some part of Draco had known that he was going to say that.

"No."

"I'm shite at Occlumency, they'll find out soon enough." About them. Everything they had done in the past year. No, not in the past year. In the past five. Draco shook his head.
"I can help you, we'll make it work."
"That's what we said last time."

Draco felt hot tears burn the back of his throat, but he didn't want to cry in front of Harry. Not right now anyway. When Harry was locked in a cell.

"I can't."

"You have to. You know what they'll do to you once they find out." Despite practically having been sentenced to death Harry didn't look scared.

"What about you?" His voice cracked and he put a hand to his eyes, as if he could hold the tears in that way. Bizarrely, he was reminded of Theo, who had done the same exact thing a year and a half ago.

"Find a way to escape. Find the order, they'll help you. Tell them the whole story. Hermione will probably have already told some of it I gather." He snorted softly. Draco wanted to die.

"I didn't mean for this to happen." he whispered, unsure his voice could go any louder than this.

"I know, baby. But you have to obliviate me, I need you to be safe." Draco's chest ached, he couldn't speak, he was sure. His throat was filled to the brim with angry tears and it felt like someone was punching him in the stomach over and over and over-

"Okay. I'll come back for you." He choked out, doing his best to pretend he wasn't falling apart.

"I love you." Draco sobbed and grabbed Harry's hand to keep himself upright. He pressed his lips together as they shook. It wasn't supposed to be this way. Love shouldn't have to hurt this terribly.

"I love you too." He laid his head against the bars and let Harry brush the hair gently out of his eyes. He let himself feel Harry's cold hand against his sweaty one, and their foreheads now pressed together. His heart rate began to slow as Harry rubbed slow circles across the back of his thumb. Draco stepped back and raised his wand. He closed his eyes, thought about running back up the stairs and out the door. But that wouldn't do anyone any favors. The incantation left his lips and he opened his eyes to find Harry's confused ones staring back at him. He bolted up the stairs and to his room. He grabbed a vase from his bedside table and threw it at the wall. He watched as the glass shattered and the tiny broken pieces were flung all over the room. He screamed along with it.