A/N: I've really gotten back into the groove of writing this. And I'm also really excited to begin the next part aswell. But, I've got nothing else to add, so, enjoy this new chapter!
Chapter 24 -The End?
After all their hard work and celebrations, had finally lead up to this. Graduation day. Students from 7th and 8th year all began to put on their robes and smarten themselves up for their final day. Tears and laughter filled the castle whilst they packed the rest of their belongings for the final time. They all made their way down to the Grand Hall for the graduation assembly, lead by Professor McGonagall.
"Welcome, Hogwarts' graduates, and congratulations for all making it through your 7, or 8, years here of study. It makes me, us all, so proud to see how far you have all come, how much you've grown and how much you've all learnt. Granted, your years here were not the easiest, however, you've made it through. Each student in this room has done incredible things, but more incredible things are yet to come."
As she rambled on, Draco leant over to Harry, sat beside him, and whispered, "Well, you've defeated a very powerful dark wizard, and found me, so I don't expect you'll do anything any more incredible."
Harry smiled at him and replied "I definitely agree with you."
"Now, if you would all like to spend the next hour to enjoy your final time here, speak to your Professors, take one last look around, but make sure you spend it well."
The students within the hall rose and began to take different directions around the castle for their final times.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and Draco stayed together, they began a trio, ended as four, made up of two pairs of lovers. The group of friends was a very powerful one, with many things to come their way. They strolled around the castle, finding Professors and wishing their goodbyes to each. Just as they had finished speaking to Professor Flitwick, they bumped into Professor McGonagall.
"Oh, hello you four, it's a great shame to see you all go. You've had the biggest challenges out of everyone else. Dumbledore would be so proud of you." she continued when seeing Draco's face drop, "Yes, even you Mr Malfoy. Despite your wrongdoings, Albus always believed that you were a good person, and he was right. He would have loved to see what you have become, it's a shame you were placed into such horrible positions. I wish you all the very best of luck with your futures. Ooh, actually, can I speak to you a second Potter?"
He stepped aside and motioned his friends down the corridor.
"What is it Professor?"
"Well Potter, you see, there has been word that Mr Malfoy's father has lost his appeal in the Ministry's hearing. He will be confined to Azkaban for life now. It is up to you to tell Mr Malfoy yourself, or wait until a the letter arrives to tell him. But either way, you must be there for him. Comfort him. "
"Of course, Professor. But, Draco already thinks that his father has a life sentence, how come it's only just been decided?"
"Ah, I see, well recently, under a new law that's been passed, regulations for crimes against wizards based on discrimination mean that punishments are tougher. Therefore, every prisoner arrested for the these crimes had another hearing. Naturally, no one was released, or had shorter sentences. However, Mr Malfoy may still require you to support him."
"I will, Professor. I love him and I'll stand by his side through everything. Also, can I just say thank you. You've helped me so much, without you, I would have really have struggled, especially after Dumbledore died. And, I think you make a great Headmistress."
"Why thank you, Potter. You've been a pleasure to teach. And, I've spoken to some other Professors, and we'd love to have you back. As a full time professor, or as a guest speaker, if you would?"
"I'd be delighted to. Although, I'm afraid it'd have to be the speaker option. Thank you very much."
"I'm glad, now, go along, you havent got long before you must leave."
"Ok, see you later Professor."
He caught back up to his friends and considered when would be best to tell Draco. He knew today would not be the best option, and so he would wait, for he was enjoying his last day as a student.
\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/
"HARRY POTTER!"
He rose from his seat and made his way to Professor McGonagall. He smiled at her and took her hand, shaking it firmly.
"Thank you Potter. Congratulations, good luck for the future. Goodbye." She felt a slight tear roll down her cheek.
Harry broke the formality and hugged her, "Thank you, Goodbye. For now."
He pulled away and went to join Hermione and Draco by the boats. Draco neatened up Harry's collar and smiled at him. Ron was towards the end alphabetically and so would take a while longer. While they waited, they spoke to Hagrid about how Professor McGonagall offered him his job to stay for as long as he liked, as both Groundskeeper and Professor. Ginny eventually joined them all with a grin, indicating Ron was next to join them.
"Hagrid, how many are to a boat?"
"Well, either one of me, or five of yous."
They chucked with him and Harry was glad to know the five could all share their graduation ceremony. Ron walked down, and before long, so did the rest of the school. They all lined up on the steps to wave goodbye as Professor McGonagall nodded her confirmation to the ginat beside them.
He roared, whilst climbing into his own boat, "All hop in then!"
And with that, Ginny sprang into a nearby boat, allowing Ron and Hermione next, before Harry and Draco. They all got comfy and Hagrid shouted again, "All ready? Let's go!"
He banged the side of his boat with his hand and away they all went. It was a lengthy ride and Harry and Draco sat with arms around one another, staring into the sunset.
"This is beautiful."
"Not as beautiful as you."
"What makes you say that?"
"I love the way the sun shines off your smooth blonde hair."
Draco smirked and pulled Harry in for a kiss, presumably thanking him for the compliment. They enjoyed the rest of the ride in each others' embrace and sat quietly, listening to the calming sounds of the boats moving across the lake.