AN: Dear readers, thanks for reading this story. It is really absurdly long, there will be two more chapters which I will be uploading on the following Sundays. I also apologize for not explaining that this is a multi-chapter fic due to uploading troubles. FF net is still half a mystery to me so please bear with my ineptness a bit longer. If you enjoyed - or not - please let me know with an itty-bitty small review or a PN. Thanks! :-)
Not So Speechless After All
Chapter 2
Barely a week had passed when Merlot came crashing into Harry's living room. He looked ruffled and crazed. Harry quickly picked him up from where he had landed on the bookshelf and looked him over. Thankfully the owl was alright, he had just a few damaged feathers and a racing heartbeat.
"What happened to you?" Harry asked, concerned. He had never seen Merlot so excited, usually he was a rather placid bird. "Did you get into a fight?"
Stroking the poor owl's feathers, Harry muttered sweet nothings to calm it down. Only when he was sure Merlot could handle sitting in Hedwig's cage alone he untied the letter from his leg and sat down in his favourite armchair.
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, December 3rd 2005
Dear Harry,
Through my many channels in the Ministry I heard that the process against Rita Skeeter has started. They're collecting useful evidence, and your friend, Ms Granger, is helping them. I believe she's using that exceptional opportunity to do her doctorate. I'm quite impressed, actually. Let's just hope it will lead to something.
What do you say about a quiet night together in Italy? I got tickets for a good opera and I'd like for you to come with me. (Before you ask: no, I couldn't think of anyone else, for various reasons.) Let's celebrate the fourth advent away from everybody.
Yours,
Lucius
--
Harry chewed on his bottom lip. He would love to go, especially now when everybody else already had other plans for the last few weeks before Christmas. On the other hand it was risky … he knew that he still found Lucius interesting, and every day he spent together with the blonde he tangled himself more in the web of cautious, hopeful daydreams.
Oh, he was so stupid, falling for the man yet again. He had that fatal soft spot for Lucius' gentlemanly attitude, but also for his undeniable strength. And gods, the man was beautiful!
Lucius had so many desirable qualities, Harry was mildly astounded that he wasn't head over heels in love with him already. He admired him, and he liked the blatant flirting; he could even go so far and say he loved him for the friendship he offered him, but he didn't think he was in love.
Yet.
Harry groaned about his own stupidity and quickly turned the parchment around, absently grabbing his quill.
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, December 3rd 2005
Dearest Lucius,
I thought a bit about your offer, and I think I'll come with you. I have one condition, though: you have to go to the Christmas fair with me. I already picked one I'd like to see, and you'll come with me. It's a big one in Vienna, with lots of cartwheels and roller coasters. We'll have a lot of fun.
What opera is it? Where will we go? I'm getting excited all over again, although we have been out of Britain only last week. To be honest, I could pack my things and move right away. England is so cold and dreary most of the time.
Well, tell me what you think about my blatant attempt at blackmail. I can hardly wait to get hit by your witty comments.
Amused,
Harry
--
It didn't take very long for Merlot to come back yet again. Lucius wasn't living very far away, and they could talk via Floo if they wanted, but Harry enjoyed the exchange of letters. On paper Lucius seemed to open up, and every time he read a new letter it was a small moment of happiness for Harry to learn another thing about him. Besides, the letters he could keep, and until now he had kept every letter he had ever received from Lucius.
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, December 3rd 2005
My dearest Harry,
Yes, it really is the poorest and most blatant attempt at blackmail I've ever seen. But don't worry, I'll forgive you and even spare you further efforts by just agreeing.
You know, of course, that for the opera you'll need at least a tux. Sadly, it's a Muggle event. If Muggles ever did something great, it was music. Wizards are appallingly lacking talent for making music; you might have noticed that already.
Anyway, I'm glad to find you so agreeable tonight, so you'll most likely not object when I announce that I plan to go into a very exclusive Italian restaurant with you after the opera. I planned the whole evening, so you might as well spare yourself the trouble and just write "Yes, I will spend the weekend with you."
See, it's very easy.
Yours,
Lucius
--
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, December 3rd (crossed out) 4th 2005
Lucius,
You're a horrible man. But, as a means of revenge, we'll go next Saturday evening and return when we are sober again. I demand that you have a go with at least five different cartwheels and roller coasters AND you will not spoil our fun with undignified whining. Behave like the child you probably never were and everyone will be happy.
Honestly, forcing yourself to wear Muggle clothes for two hours of Muggle music? I see a definite change here. Did you know that they sell gigantic music systems with all-round-sound-system? Install one in your living room or the library and it sounds as if they play the concert right in front of you.
Is the restaurant Muggle or magic? If it's our kind I think I'll take my wand.
Curious,
Harry
--
And it continued on to the wee hours of the morning. Merlot already refused to fly once more in the night, so Hedwig volunteered. Paja was pouting in his chandelier; the English winter weather was definitely too cold for him. When Hedwig didn't return Harry finally turned in, smiling in amusement and excitement. He would go to the fair after all.
This night, he was dreaming wonderful things that would make children happy, and those who never had a proper childhood in the first place. Harry had never been to a real Christmas fair before, only a small wizarding version in Diagon Alley, but his dreams of cotton candy and colourful, fast cartwheels were awaking his expectations.
Harry was just having breakfast when Lucius' reply arrived. He invited Hedwig to bacon and a sip of his tea, and then he opened his letter.
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, December 4th 2005
Good morning Harry,
Did you sleep well? I'm sorry I left you hanging but Hedwig insisted on her beauty sleep. Hopefully I didn't keep you up for too long.
Oh, no, I'm not at all resentful about wearing Muggle clothes. They have developed a myriad of ways to make women look younger and slimmer. The same goes for men, of course. It's a gift to mankind! Wizarding robes are too simple for my tastes but it took me twenty years and the death of Voldemort to discover that. I find Armani and Gucci quite agreeable, although Hugo Boss has some merits.
If you want I can help you pick out a suit. As usual your style is much too casual – for any kind of event. And I seem to have developed quite a masochistic streak, because I like being manhandled by you.
Oh, well, I don't HAVE anything better to do, now have I? How about Wednesday afternoon? Severus will be just gone and I could do with some cheering-up then.
Yours,
Lucius
--
--
--
Wednesday December 7th …
--
Wednesday couldn't come too soon for Harry's tastes. He felt a bit guilty for awaiting their meeting so anxiously, but then again he hadn't had much fun since the wedding.
However, some people had found it obviously audacious of him to go shopping at all; the newspapers were plastering the whole story over their front pages for the next few days, and a new wave of Howlers swamped the mail box in the Ministry and money was flowing like water in Harry's vault. This, in turn, enraged even more people, and they sent letters which, naturally, cost them more money and brought Harry some.
It was madness!
And the day had started out so well …
--
Earlier that day …
--
Harry woke to the chimes of his old grandfather clock. Although it was almost winter the sun was glaring brightly through his windows and tickling his still brown skin. Hedwig hooted softly in her cage; how lucky for Harry that Wednesday was his day off. Hedwig was always waking him on work days, and she had a loud screech.
Stretching lazily, he decided to take a shower and get ready for the day. Lucius had told him to meet him at four in the afternoon in the Leaky Cauldron. From there they would Floo to the only boutique that was warded against Apparating for more than five miles. By Floo, Lucius had said, it was no problem getting into the business area – if you had an appointment.
Despite having the day off, Harry walked to Mr Pipe's office and talked a bit with Lori, the secretary. She was a matronly woman, not unlike Mrs Weasley, although not half as clingy. And she, unlike other people, had never given a damn about Harry's reasons for leaving Draco in front of the altar.
Later, when he met Lucius, he felt charged with good energy. Some people glared at him when he entered the Leaky Cauldron but Harry was so used to it by now that he didn't even notice.
Lucius, however, did. After greeting Harry like a perfect gentleman he glared at the offenders and led Harry away to a secluded Floo suite.
"I see that your fans are happy to see you," he murmured tightly.
"Ignore them," replied Harry, who was too chipper to care. "Tell me where to Floo to."
Lucius inclined his head, seemingly acquiescing. His eyes, however, held that stubborn glint that told Harry that it wouldn't be forgotten. "To Nr 15, Mandola Maze."
Harry took a handful of Floo powder, threw it into the flames, stepped in and vanished after saying the destination out loud. Lucius followed suit, not wishing to leave Harry alone for too long.
Lucius hadn't been exaggerating when he'd said that the shop was rather exclusive. Nr 15, Mandola Maze was only the destination address, the customers still had to actually walk half a mile to the boutique. It was better than having to walk five miles, Harry decided, cheeks red from the cold.
The area was Muggle, which Harry found strange enough but Lucius moved through the people with ease. Nobody glanced at his robes twice; in fact, several young people wore similar cloaks although Harry couldn't feel any magic coming from them. There were young artists, smeared with colours and carrying brushes or frames or maps with pictures in them. Others talked loudly about classes: acting, music and arts.
"This place is weird," said Harry quietly. "How come I've never heard of it?"
Lucius smiled in mild amusement. "Mandola Maze is a district where young people meet and give life to their eccentric ideas and plans. Some of them are wizards who wanted to mix with open-minded Muggles, and I guess our fashion impressed the Muggles along the way. The last thing I heard was that a well-known designer was picking up the idea of old-fashioned cloaks and clothes. We can only hope that it will bring back some sense of style."
Harry smirked. "You'd like that, wouldn't you?" He watched a couple walking hand in hand past them. Both the young man and woman wore richly frilled and decorated Baroque clothes, and it was well appreciated by the other passers-by.
"I would find it refreshing," was Lucius' airy reply.
"But why didn't I know of this? I never even heard about it. Are we still in Britain?"
Lucius chuckled. In the waning autumn light his eyes looked as if fog was laying over the sea, calm and mysterious. Even the usually sharp pupils seemed misty.
"Yes, we are still in Britain, but nowhere near London. We're in Kingston upon Hull. As to why you never heard of it … I guess there never was a need for you to go there. You didn't need a place like this to put your plans to action."
"Yeah, I rather travelled around," said Harry thoughtfully. "And art never was quite my thing."
They admired the many different stores and cafés that seemed to buzz with life and youthful energy. Lucius told Harry little things about the district, and then the walk was already over and they stood in front of a very expensive looking boutique. Harry found that it looked obscenely normal for a street like this but Lucius just pushed him through the door and walked up to the counter.
"How can I help you, gentlemen?" a very tall and thin man asked haughtily. He had a thin, slick looking moustache and similar hair that was plastered to his head. He looked like some gent from the nineteen-forties or earlier with his formal business attire, Harry thought. His slight pausing in his speech was very close to an insult.
"Lucius Malfoy," said Lucius, equally haughty and insulting. "If you don't mind dragging the creative part of your business from his work, we would be much obliged."
The thin man nodded stiffly. "Certainly, Mr Malfoy. I'll get Robert for you." Like a shadow he glided from his place behind the counter and through a backdoor.
"He's a tad creepy," said Harry, rolling his eyes.
"Oh, he's just trying to impress new customers," said Lucius with an indulgent smile. "Primus always tries to out-snipe me. He has yet to win, of course."
"Of course," said Harry sweetly.
Only moments later another tall, thin man emerged from the backdoor, with Primus right behind him.
"Lucius!" the man called. Although he looked like Primus' brother he had nothing of his stiffness. Crinkles around his eyes and mouth showed that he smiled and laughed often, and his stance was open and friendly. His clothes were casual and a bit dusty, and here and there a piece of thread stuck to them.
They shook hands and Lucius introduced Harry as 'lost cause' who needed a suitable attire for the opera. Robert tutted in amusement and immediately set to work, measuring Harry and then rifling through the racks.
"I daresay he would look smashing in Armani," said Robert, smiling happily. "Try it on, Mr Potter." He pulled out a wand from his sleeve and swished it once, dressing Harry up like a doll.
"Too uptight," commented Lucius after a few moments of silent contemplation, and the suit was put away.
Harry, who was the victim of this fashion-ambush, thought Robert and Lucius took ages to decide over his fate but in truth both men only needed forty-some minutes to decide which cut, fabric and colours would be fitting. Lucius bought some shirts and ties, only glaring at Harry when he tried to protest.
All in all the afternoon had been a success. The clothes would be delivered in a few days and Harry stoically ignored that Lucius paid for everything. He had made it very clear that Harry offended him with his protests, and rationally Harry knew that the man had more money than he could ever spend, even if he tried.
He didn't like it, though. It made him feel dependent and indebted, something he had never liked. And after that wedding disaster he abhorred the thought of owing Lucius even more.
"Why are you so sensitive when it comes to money?" Lucius asked, steering Harry to a cosy little café.
"Because I feel like a bloody gold digger, that's why," snapped Harry angrily.
Lucius raised both eyebrows. "That's rather harsh, Harry. Obviously you have never seen a true gold digger in action." He smirked. "And if you were you'd offer me lousy services." He intoned the word lewdly so Harry knew exactly what he meant.
"That's not the point!" groused Harry, annoyed that Lucius didn't understand what he was trying to say. "The point is that I feel like I make you spend that money on me, and it's … wrong."
"You're not used to being pampered, that's all," replied Lucius reasonably and put his gloves on the table. "It's about time someone started doing it, honestly."
"But why would you want to pamper me?" Harry asked, feeling irrationally confused about the whole conversation.
Lucius' eyes were smouldering when he looked directly in Harry's. "Because you deserve it and because I enjoy your company. I like spending money for my pleasure, and why shouldn't I extend that courtesy to you as well?" He made a sign and a waiter came over to them. "Cappuccino for me and English chocolate for my guest, please."
"Certainly, sir." The waiter bowed slightly, obviously awed by Lucius' regal appearance, and ambled to the kitchen to place their order.
"You just did it again!" growled Harry, insulted that Lucius had done this little move.
"I can afford many things, Harry," Lucius sighed, "but the things I really want I can't buy." He thought about it, and then smiled crookedly. "Even if I tried, I'm afraid."
At this Harry felt instantly guilty. He knew that Lucius was rather lonely with only him, Snape and sometimes some people from the Ministry as company. Of course he could buy people's affection, or rather their physical presence, but not true friendship. And that was not the way Lucius was going about things, anyway - for doing something like that he had way too much pride.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring that up," Harry murmured. He felt like a class-A-idiot.
"You didn't. I just want to make clear that I enjoy spending money; on you, with you, for you, whatever. I enjoy our times together very much, and you'll forgive me if I plan to make our future get-togethers as pleasant as possible. I can afford it, why not make use of it?"
"I would feel like a … well, a whore," said Harry quietly. "Even though my services are lacking, as you so kindly put it."
"And I'll soon feel like buying you if you keep up complaining," retorted Lucius, an amused glint in his eyes but biting back a snort. "I hope you know how bad this would be for my self-esteem."
Harry could indeed imagine. "Well, we'll take turns from now on. That should solve the problem."
"All right, if that's what you want," said Lucius, sounding awfully placating. Harry chose to ignore the satisfied expression on Lucius' face.
At least the conversation lightened up considerably now, and when the waiter came with their drinks the world was whole again.
--
As pleasant as the afternoon and evening might have been, coming home wasn't. Since Mandola Maze was a Muggle district and Apparating was out in the area, Harry and Lucius opted for Flooing back from Nr 15 rather than walking the five miles or taking the bus. Lucius went first to make sure everything was okay at the Leaky Cauldron. However, only a minute after he'd gone through his head appeared in the flames.
"Muggles be damned, Apparate back somehow, Harry. Things aren't pretty in Diagon Alley." Flames licked around Lucius' disembodied head and along his hair. "Somebody must have recognised us and told the papers."
From outside the pub Harry could hear enraged cries and shouts through the Floo connection; people were demanding his head!
"All right, I'll Apparate," said Harry through clenched teeth. "Thank you."
With enormous effort he calmed himself down and Flooed into the nearest inn and then immediately Apparated back to his flat in London before someone saw his face. As soon as he hit the floor of his corridor he started pacing through the rooms. Hedwig was watching him carefully from her seat on the chandelier while Paja sat on the desk, crowing hoarsely.
"Yes, girls, the next few days will be dreadful," said Harry sarcastically when he noticed the birds' stares. "Be prepared for ambushes of all kind."
Hedwig hooted shrilly and shook her white head.
--
Harry was glad when Saturday finally came. Every single wizarding newspaper had taken it upon itself to report his shopping trip and, more importantly, with whom he'd spent the time with. At work people managed to sneak hateful messages past a watchful Lori, which finally resulted in Harry calling Arthur Weasley on Friday and asking for another Ministry decree for his working place. Saturday didn't mean he was getting off the hook for a change, mind, but it was time for his and Lucius' trip to Vienna!
Throughout the last two, horrible days this was his only ray of hope on an otherwise dark horizon and he had sworn that he'd hex any offenders to pieces if they dared to disrupt his weekend.
Lucius was already waiting when Harry Apparated to the International Apparating Spot near Gringotts. He wore a black, fitting Muggle coat. Underneath he probably wore a suit if the grey pinstripe trousers and the black, shiny leather shoes were any indication. Around his neck Lucius had a champagne-coloured scarf, and his hands were gloved in black leather gloves that looked expensive even from afar.
In one word, the man looked gorgeous. In Vienna, a known city for its relatively open gay scene, he would certainly catch a lot of eyes.
It was just beginning to get dark, and the frosty air was biting every patch of uncovered skin. Over London the sky was cloudy and grey but the weather forecast had promised stars over Germany, Austria and Switzerland tonight.
Harry took Lucius' offered hand and squeezed it affectionately. Seeing the man was already helping him to forget the ugly slander in the newspapers. Lucius was squeezing back, the only sign of appreciation they dared to show in public. They exchanged the customary pleasantries, pointedly ignoring staring passers-by, before they stepped into the power circle and Harry Apparated them over to Austria.
"Sometimes I hate the British stiffness," confessed Harry as soon as they had landed. He pouted. "I should be able to greet you properly if I want to."
Lucius raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what would this 'proper greeting' consist of?"
"I don't want to be rude," said Harry quickly. "You surely wouldn't approve, so it's out of the question anyway."
"Try me," replied Lucius, regarding Harry with his icy eyes. His voice had that daring edge that always managed to make Harry do what he knew he better shouldn't, no matter how much he actually wanted it.
Harry swallowed. Quickly, before he could change his mind, he stood on his toes, wrapped his arms around Lucius' neck and embraced him in heartfelt affection. After a while he let go of the pliant yet firm body and blushed.
"Thanks. That felt really good." Harry couldn't look Lucius in the eyes for a second. "And thanks for keeping the biggest mess away from me. They went right at you as well, though. I'm sorry."
"There's no need to be so distraught about it," said Lucius, watching Harry amusedly as he fidgeted uncomfortably. "I had it worse. In fact, I'm quite enjoying their gormless blundering."
"Tell me if you ever get mad at me for being such a clumsy, stupid ox," said Harry, crestfallen.
"You'd know if I was," Lucius' lips curled into a soothing smile, a rather foreign look on his face. "You are spoiling me with greetings like the last, I hope you know that. I'm a creature of habit, so you shouldn't do that too often, otherwise I could get used to it and insist you do it every time."
"I'm quite a creature of habit, too," replied Harry, perking up at Lucius' teasing tone. "And I wouldn't mind too terribly. That is, if you want to be spoiled."
"The question should be: when wouldn't I want to be?" Lucius quirked a smirk at Harry.
"Too true," said Harry and rolled his eyes. "Come, we have to walk for a bit until we get to the fair."
Anticipation rose when they meandered, together with hundreds of other people, through the old streets of Vienna. Harry was awed by the old buildings and churches, and Lucius found the way the Austrians spoke very amusing. Even a few streets away, they could already hear the howling of the roller coasters and the blaring of the loud music. People were laughing and squealing and shouting.
The crowd became thicker the closer they got to the entrance of the fair. Soon it was so crowded that Harry resorted to taking Lucius' hand in his again. Purposefully he strode through the masses of people, skilled at making his way through them after his year in Thailand where big crowds were quite usual.
Since Lucius hadn't got any other money than their wizarding money Harry paid for them both, a smug smile etched in his face.
"My treat this weekend," he said sweetly and then tugged his blond companion away to the first roller coaster.
"And you really expect me to set foot into that contraption?" Lucius asked incredulously. They had watched a few rounds and Lucius' face had paled a bit. "It looks rather rickety to me."
"Don't be a spoilsport," replied Harry. He paid the woman in the little house the money and took the plastic chips. "Here, take one. And I remember that you agreed not to whine or protest. I even have that in writing."
"I should have looked that Christmas fair thing up when I still had the time," grumbled Lucius. The chip looked ridiculously small and out of place in his elegant hand. "And I should be more careful what to promise to you as well."
"Whining again," tutted Harry, hiding his smirk behind his hand.
They waited for the roller coaster to end its turn, and then they climbed in. Lucius stayed by Harry's side, clearly not wishing to be separated from him during the ride. He looked a bit pale and anxious, so Harry decided to have mercy.
"You can hold my hand if you'd like," he said generously, mere seconds before the warning bells got off, announcing that the ride was starting now. "But you'll see, it's not bad, it's fun!"
Harry was right, of course. After the initial shock of being whirled around in a Muggle contraption had faded, Lucius visibly started to enjoy the odd entertainment and went on almost all rides, except the ones he just knew would turn his stomach. Harry didn't mind, though. Lucius had more than served the promised five rides and had been very good about all the Muggle things as well – Harry found it was time to reward his friend for his patience.
"What about mulled wine?" Harry asked happily when he came off a horrible cart wheel that had shaken him up like nothing else ever had before.
"Are you sure you can handle it after that … thing?" replied Lucius with a touch of amusement.
"You'd be astounded by what I can handle," replied Harry cockily, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Slowly they wandered away from the latest cart wheel, over to some stands that sold food or sweets or mulled wine. The lights were making the night warm and inviting, although the cold was so biting that ears and noses were red all around. The blaring music had faded into the usual noisy background, now that they had spent more than three hours at the fair. Harry was holding Lucius' hand again, although there weren't as many people around them as before. Neither seemed to notice really, as they were far too content right now.
Finally they found a stand that took their fancy, and Harry ordered two mugs of mulled wine and, after some discussion, Belgian mushrooms for Lucius and a roasted sausage for himself.
"I know it's not your usual classy food," said Harry, chuckling at Lucius' indignant face, "but it tastes fantastic. Just give it a go." He nicked a mushroom from Lucius' plate and tasted it with relish.
They ate in silence, watching the laughing people walk past them. Some joined them for food and drinks but most simply moved on, pointing at this or that and talking merrily with each other.
"You were right, it was quite good," said Lucius when he had finished eating. "Although it's really not the usual quality, of course."
"Spoiled brat," muttered Harry and then yelped when Lucius' hand connected sharply with his behind. "Ouch, you evil git! What was that for?"
"This is nowhere near evil, my dear Harry," purred Lucius, slowly advancing on Harry.
Harry squeaked when Lucius made a grab and quickly dove away. He ducked under his arms and sprinted away. He couldn't quite believe it but Lucius was actually running after him, and gaining on him rapidly!
With deft moves Harry slipped through the crowd, getting amused stares when people noticed his little hide-and-seek game with his predator. Some tried to help him, hiding Harry behind them, others tried to stop him. All in all it was a funny race all over the fair.
At long last Harry hid in the spook house, taking deep gulps of the freezing air to come down from all the excitement. Even though he knew that the house was designed to make people scream he couldn't help but jump at some noises, like creaking floorboards or squeaking doors. The simplest things were the most effective, and he of all people should know that!
He was still huffing and puffing in exhaustion when suddenly someone grabbed him around the waist and put the other hand over his mouth to prevent him from screaming.
"Got you, my dear Harry," Lucius' rough voice whispered into Harry's oversensitive ear. Harry's heart beat a mile the second, and he was flushing from their close proximity, although it was still icy around them. "Now, what to do with you?"
Harry could smell the wine Lucius had drunk, and even the mushrooms he had eaten. The gloved hand over his mouth was slowly loosening its grip, and a finger was stroking over his lower lip teasingly. A sharp pang of desire and abandon coursed through Harry's chest and belly, and he wished that he could just give in to the blatant coaxing.
Lucius noticed his hesitancy and pressed even closer, wedging a strong thigh between Harry's slightly shaky legs. His warm breath caressed Harry's hair and skin and once again Harry was losing the battle against himself. He sighed and closed his eyes, admitting defeat and feeling ridiculously happy when Lucius' lips found his own in a languid kiss full of smouldering passion.
After snogging in the spook house like teenagers they wandered over the fair and just enjoyed the sight of people getting into roller coasters, children running about and the heavenly smells of the food. Harry was very grateful that Lucius didn't demand more than he could give. True, they had kissed and shared some body heat, but Lucius had stopped himself in time, behaving like a perfect gentleman yet again.
An hour later they started to freeze, though, so they left the fair regretfully and walked through the streets of Vienna, looking at hotels and discussing where to spend the night. Finally they chose the Hotel Ambassador, a handsome, old-fashioned yet modern hotel that had an excellent wine cellar and comfortable suites. Harry paid for two rooms which had Lucius pouting playfully.
"Don't you want to share a room with me tonight?" he asked in a sultry voice, pushing a lock of his silky hair over his shoulder.
The concierge, who had taken their order, suddenly smiled much warmer at them. "Sirs, if you are interested I could recommend a first-class bath which will surely serve your … inclination."
"Oh, really?" Harry asked curiously.
"Yes, it's the old royal bath …," the concierge described the way, all the while smiling knowingly. "You should see it, Sirs, it is grand."
Lucius inclined his head. "I'm sure we will." He quirked an eyebrow at Harry. "Tomorrow, Harry?"
Harry nodded, tipping the young concierge for his refreshing manners. "Yes, absolutely. Do we need something special?"
"Towels, perhaps," said the concierge slyly, "but I'm sure you can get them there, or you just take some from us." He smiled broadly at Harry, an obvious attempt at flirting.
"Very good," replied Harry obliviously. "Come, Lucius, let's go and see our rooms."
They left the reception and used the elevator to get to the fourth floor. Lucius decided that he needed a shower so they split up and did their evening ablutions. It was only eleven o'clock, too early in Harry's opinion to go to sleep. Hopefully his friend wouldn't have something against nightly company.
He tied the sash of his silk robe tighter and knocked at Lucius' door.
"Enter."
Harry pushed the handle of the door down and stepped in. The fireplace was lit – always comforting for a wizard – and Lucius was standing by the phone, quietly talking to someone. Harry had barely time to wonder about Lucius' knowledge of how to use the phone when the call was ended.
"I was hoping for your company," said Lucius. "And you even appeared in my favoured outfit." He smirked. "I ordered wine and ice cream, do you want to join me in being ridiculously decadent?"
"Very," said Harry, grinning. "Can I sit on your rug?"
"If you leave a bit space for an old wizard," quipped Lucius, padding bare-footed through the room to join Harry on the soft sheepskin rug.
"I don't see any old wizards," said Harry in kind but scooted over nonetheless. For a small while both sat there and looked thoughtfully into the flames. He was wondering if he should breach a subject that was pressuring him greatly lately. Finally Harry conceded to himself. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course," said Lucius, sounding mildly surprised that Harry even had to ask.
Harry sighed and stretched his naked legs, wiggling his toes in front of the golden fire. "I don't quite know how to go about it," he admitted quietly.
"Just start," offered Lucius, frowning slightly.
"If it were just that easy," said Harry, now taking his eyes from his toes to look directly into the dancing flames. "I guess you'll have to excuse my lack of subtlety and etiquette but it's really bothering me."
"I won't react harshly, I promise," said Lucius, obviously alarmed at Harry's serious voice and his beating around the bush.
Harry was just about to start speaking when it knocked at the door. Lucius muttered an elegant profanity and went to get the door. It was the room service who brought the ordered wine and ice cream.
When Lucius returned, looking rather cross and put out, Harry had lost his bravery and was accepting the offered glass of wine gratefully.
"Stupid Muggles," said Lucius distastefully. "He had the nerve to look at you like some piece of wrapped-up candy. And then he had the even greater nerve to ask if he has disturbed us." He sat back down and looked imploringly at Harry. "Cheers, my dear. For a bright and merry Christmas."
Harry looked into Lucius' eyes when he toasted back, as it was custom, and smiled softly. "You're one big softy, Lucius Malfoy," he teased gently. "Cheers."
They drank and fell back into that comfortable silence that came so easily to them. This friendship was, without a doubt, a wonderful thing, something Harry never had expected and was grasping only tighter for that exact reason. Lucius meant so much to him, so much in fact that he felt like bursting every now and then; as if he was blessed and overflowing with gold from the inside.
"Have some ice cream," said Lucius after a small while. "I'm sure it's not as good as Fortescue's, but we'll manage."
Harry's eyes brightened at the mention of ice cream and he took a plate from Lucius' warm hands, looking at the artful creation appreciatively. "It sure looks good," he said, dipping his index finger into the cream and licking it off slowly. "Mmh, cinnamon."
Lucius glanced at Harry amusedly before he dipped his spoon into the ice and took a bite. "Yes, it's quite agreeable," he admitted, slowly letting the taste of baked apple melt on his tongue. "Very Christmassy."
"Too wonderful to be true," said Harry wistfully.
Lucius' eyes gleamed knowingly, yet he waited for Harry to broach the subject once again.
Feeling rather anguished, Harry put his plate away and curled around his drawn-up knees, facing the comforting fire once more. "I know it's not the best of times to talk about it," he said, feeling the first tendrils of tangible pain rise in his chest.
Lucius offered his undivided attention by setting his plate aside as well and turning to face Harry. "When is it ever?" he said calmly.
Harry snorted. "I guess you're right." He sighed again, deeply this time. "Lucius, I would like to be frank with you." He snuck a glance at his friend, once more astounded about how beautiful the man looked, and more so in the firelight. "I know you're getting mixed signals from me, and I just wanted to say I'm sorry-"
"Don't be," interrupted Lucius at once. The look of deep sorrow on Harry's face hurt. "Don't be sorry for something you don't have control over."
Harry bowed his head, resting it on his knees. "I'm trying to get over Draco, and you make it easy, but I feel like I'm using you. I don't want that, it feels wrong."
"It's hardly your fault," corrected Lucius reasonably. "Besides, I offered help, didn't I? And it is me who sought your company." He inched closer to Harry and started to rub his tense shoulders. "What is really troubling you? I'm flattered by your scruples but there must be something else."
Harry glanced up once again, and this time his bright green eyes were glazed over with a sheen of adorable confusion and hopeless despair.
"The thing is, I'm forgetting well," he said in a choked voice, "but I don't have to try at all. And that feels very wrong."
The silence after that admission was heavy. Harry closed his eyes, expecting the worst, not knowing what the worst was. He had offered so much of himself just now, practically saying out loud what had been simmering in him for quite a while now. Only a few weeks ago he had himself believed freed of the silly machinations of love. And now here he was, entangled in a web of great joy, unresolved tensions and expectations and fears and also the all-encompassing hopelessness that was distracting him from the actual disaster that was his recent life.
"It's wrong to feel like that when my wedding to Draco just crashed, isn't it?" Harry asked in a small voice. His toes were now curled tightly in the soft fur beneath them. The cracking of the fire almost swallowed his words and the remnants of their ice cream was slowly melting into puddles of sweet goo.
Lucius floundered for words; it literally was the first time in his life that he actually failed to say anything at all. All he could do was stare at Harry's withdrawn figure, and the misery that was emanating from him.
"It's wrong to bother you with my problems and probably confusing you along the way," continued Harry heavily. His emotion-laden eyes settled on Lucius', passing a message along that Harry couldn't speak aloud. "I don't want to be a burden but I just can't seem to help it."
Lucius' stilled hands now wrapped themselves around Harry and pulled him against his broad, strong body. "That wedding was four months ago," he said, raking his fingers over Harry's back, "and you're no monster for wanting some attention and help."
"But I'm leeching on you for comfort," said Harry, his voice muffled by the fabric of Lucius' own silk robe. He felt exhausted from feeling so guilty all the time.
Lucius' chest rumbled as he chuckled. "Yes, and I worked very hard to come into that position, didn't I?" He gently carded through Harry's wild hair. "Why shouldn't you enjoy the brighter sides of life? The papers and your admiring fans aside, you should have some fun with your friends and find a way back to your normal life."
"I'm having fun already," muttered Harry defiantly, snaking his arms around Lucius' waist, "and my life will be back to normal once that Skeeter woman is out of the picture."
"Oh, I can certainly help you with THAT," said Lucius, his smooth voice bordering on cheerful. "All I really expect from you is that you are yourself and do whatever you want to do. Don't worry about me, I doubt I'll ever have so much fun again in my life, recent occurrences notwithstanding."
"Somehow I can't quite believe that you'd like to be thrown back into the roller coaster of youthful floundering," replied Harry, sounding deliberately sceptical. His voice turned serious again. "All I really have is not that much, Lucius, and you're taking up a big part of what I do have. I don't want to hurt you."
"I know that," murmured Lucius softly. He held Harry securely and continued to massage Harry's back with soft movements of his fingers. Much, much quieter, he whispered, "And I don't care if you do."
Harry froze, and his heartbeat quickened. Those words were more than he could comprehend, in more ways than one, and yet, oddly, they were very, very comforting. Sighing, Harry snuggled even closer to Lucius and breathed in the warm scent. Lucius smelled a bit smoky from the fire, and a bit like the washing gel he had used.
For a long while they lay on the sheepskin rug, ice cream forgotten, and just cuddled for the sake of cuddling. The steady, soft thudding of Lucius' heart was almost as hypnotising as the shore in the Caribbean, when Harry had lain on the beach and just listened to the endless, gentle noise. Harry felt his heart clench sadly when Lucius sighed inaudibly. He had missed that: just touching and being touched in a platonic way. To be calmed and held and reassured that everything would be fine again.
Slumbering away, they didn't notice that the fire burned down to a pile of glowing embers, and that the room became chilly. Much later, Harry woke with a start when his toes began to freeze, wondering for a second what he was lying on, or rather, whom.
Lucius already stirred under him, groaning quietly in discomfort. Slowly they disentangled and got up. If they hadn't been so tired the sight of both of them sneaking around in an almost completely dark room would have been hilarious. As it was, Harry stood on unsteady legs and banished the plates and the glasses sleepily, and then, as an afterthought, rebound the sash of his rumpled robe around his waist.
"You could have left that to the personnel," said Lucius in mild reproach. He went with Harry to the door, resting his hand on the handle.
Harry's eyes sparked in amusement, but he decided to let that snobby barb slide. "It's late," he said unnecessarily, just to say anything at all before he left. His voice was rough from slumber. "Sleep well, Lucius."
"You too," said Lucius quietly, "and sweet dreams."
Harry smiled a small, somewhat insecure smile. "Thanks." He clumsily touched Lucius' shoulder in a soft caress before he raked the same hand through his hair and stumbled tiredly out of the room, to his own bed.
--
Back in London, Harry damned the whole world (minus a few select individuals) to hell. The papers had spotted him visiting Ron and Hermione on Monday, successfully managing to ruin his day with setting every reporter on him they could find. And God, they had been asking stupid questions!
Harry, who considered himself a rather well-balanced guy, had had serious problems restraining his wand hand that had been straining to reach the wand and send curses at the offenders left, right and centre. Ron and Hermione had just grinned and let him into their house, raising the wards and thus effectively shutting the nosy reporters out.
Thankfully the visit itself had been very good for Harry. He, Ron and Hermione had hugged and cuddled and talked about everything, even the things Harry didn't really want to talk about. Still, he felt better now, and he had known he would. Hermione and especially Ron had long since given up on drilling common sense into him and had just been asking haltingly if they were interpreting right what they were seeing. Harry, of course, really couldn't answer that particular question, but he was glad that they didn't seem to be angry at him.
On Tuesday he got his suit sent by a house elf, together with the shirts and belts and the pair of shoes Lucius had picked. Harry felt his throat constrict for a second at the sight of the expensive garments, and just like that he shook it off. Lucius had told him not to think about it, so he wouldn't.
He put the whole suit on and stood in front of Hedwig and Paja, who both eyed him critically.
"What do you think, girls, is this all right for the opera?" he asked, turning around.
Hedwig cooed and Paja croaked, so Harry assumed that they approved. He undressed and hung the suit away for Saturday. He was feeling antsy already. Harry had never quite learned the art of moving through upper society and was always deadly nervous when such occurrences arose. He just hoped that Lucius wouldn't let him down.
Sighing fondly, he thought about the Sunday in Vienna. They hadn't visited the bath the concierge had recommended. Instead, they had taken a long, leisure stroll through the old town, admiring the old buildings in daylight and looking at the many stands that offered gingerbread, scent oils, candles, jewellery and other knickknacks that nobody really needed but everybody bought just the same.
Feeling oddly out of place, Harry decided to make himself a cup of tea. He had nothing to do, other than thinking about his time with Lucius and why he felt so damn good with the man. Every time he met him he had a great time. They never argued about stupid, trivial things, and they respected each other.
Respected what they wanted out of life.
Harry ignored the shrill hooting of his kettle when the water boiled, so much was he ensconced in his thoughts. Knowing that Lucius was there, no matter what … life seemed so much brighter suddenly.
--
December 17th, trip to Rome for the opera …
--
Harry was very anxious as soon as he opened his eyes on Saturday morning. Hedwig and Paja were crooning amusedly at him when he staggered out of bed, stumbled around his room to switch the radio on until he finally made his way into the bathroom and took a very cold, refreshing shower.
The whole day long Harry tried to occupy himself in his flat, so he wouldn't have to think about Lucius all the time. He feared that he wouldn't live up to the man's high standards, and even though Harry knew that Lucius would never say anything if he didn't, he didn't want to embarrass him. And the opera was a parquet that demanded style as well as self-confidence. Harry just hoped that he could provide at least one of those things.
During the endless hours of waiting for the early evening to approach, Harry cleaned his flat from top to bottom, did the laundry and changed his bedspread. It felt good to just DO something, working was out of the question at the moment, after all.
It was just around four in the afternoon when his doorbell rang. Harry was busy dusting off his bookshelves, so he went to get the door, the feather duster still in his hand. Hedwig trilled after him, preening her feathers.
Opening the door, Harry couldn't imagine who would come visiting now. Lucius was supposed to pick him up around six-
"Hello, Harry," said man said, chuckling about Harry's decidedly rumpled look. Rendered speechless, Harry stepped aside and waved Lucius with his feather duster in. "Thank you."
"What are you doing here already?" Harry finally asked.
"I just thought I could watch out for our timing," replied Lucius, idly looking around the flat with obvious interest. "Although I'm sure you'd look stunning even if you threw your clothes on five minutes to departure."
"Ha-ha," said Harry. He led his guest to the living room and offered him a seat, taking the heavy winter coat and putting it away. "But fine, have it your way."
"I wonder why you still haven't got a house elf yet," said Lucius, looking pointedly at the feather duster in Harry's hand.
"I wanted to," said Harry, flustered that the man had seen him doing such domestic tasks. "But somehow I never got around to visiting Hogwarts and asking Dobby if he wants the job."
"Dobby?" Lucius' voice immediately took on a dangerous timbre which wasn't quite playful. "As in the elf you tricked out of my possession?"
"Don't start that now," said Harry pleadingly; he had heard the underlying tone and feared for their night out. "I know it was a mean trick, but yes, you deserved it at that time."
Lucius rose from his seat; even without his imposing coat he looked like a dangerous animal, ready to strike and kill. When he advanced on Harry, the tension was palpable.
"My dear Harry," purred Lucius, "all I really want to do is to applaud your inner Slytherin. Of course I was mad, but we could make good of your robbery now." He stopped right in front of Harry, looming over his apprehensive, miserable form. "And I know just the price for that elf."
"Price?" Harry asked weakly. "I didn't know house elves had a price." He vaguely wished he had his wand with him; Lucius' eyes were unsettling him.
"This one does," replied Lucius, purring rather than speaking, "but don't worry, it's not impossible to pay."
His hand reached for Harry's that was still holding the feather duster. With one gentle move the thing changed possession. Slowly, as if dealing with a shy animal, he caressed Harry's face with the feathers, carefully keeping them away from Harry's nose. His other hand snuck around Harry's waist, almost unnoticed by him.
"Name it, then," said Harry breathlessly, leaning into the tender caresses. The tension was so thick between them, almost unbearably so. He wished for something, anything at all.
"Why wait," whispered Lucius and bent down to kiss Harry devoutly on the lips. His arm around Harry's waist pressed the young man tightly against him, and soon he dropped the feather duster and wound the other around Harry's pliant body as well.
"Mmmh," moaned Harry when Lucius' tongue slipped into his mouth, seducing him to kiss back. Just this kiss was so damn arousing that Harry almost instantly wanted more. Forgotten was his resolve to keep away from Lucius before he really knew what he wanted. He worried for Lucius' virtue though - months of celibacy did make him rather needy. "Don't," he moaned, desperately grasping onto his rapidly waning control. "Don't, if you don't want to-"
"Shhh," Lucius interrupted. He ignored the lame struggles, only pressed Harry tighter to himself, kissing him passionately and feeling him up shamelessly.
Harry happily gave up his feeble attempts of warning Lucius and responded in kind, slipping his hands under Lucius' carefully tucked-in shirt and dragging his nails over the broad, muscular back. The only sounds in the suddenly hot apartment were the soft, encouraging moans and the harsh breaths either man sucked in greedily before they dove into a new, hungry kiss.
Harry was groaning appreciatively when a strong hand pushed its way into his trousers without preamble and started to stroke him like THAT. Blood roared in his ears and he was blinded by his desire. It was so good, so wonderful, so hot that he forgot everything around him besides the man who was giving this pleasure to him. He pulled Lucius' head down and nipped at his ear playfully.
"Keep doing that," he panted darkly, "and I'll rip your clothes to shreds and rape you right on this carpet." The hand clenched around him, and Lucius uttered a strangled sound. "I WANT to take you," Harry murmured hotly.
The lips were back on his, furiously opening him up and taking everything Harry had to offer. It burnt, pushing Harry to really tear at Lucius' clothes and demand MORE. The kisses became almost violent, and then Lucius' hand in Harry's hair forced his head back, and his throat was attacked by ardent bites and licks.
Harry whimpered and offered as much skin as he could, slowly going crazy from the pressure of Lucius' thigh against his straining cock and the fiery, maddening kisses along his neck and on his shoulders. One big hand was now grabbing his behind firmly, still squeezing Harry closer to Lucius. How that was possible Harry didn't know; he felt the fine linen of Lucius' shirt against his bare chest (where his own shirt had gone he didn't know either, and right now he couldn't care less, really), felt every little button, the strong muscles, his equally hard and straining cock and, of course, the underlying heat that was coming from Lucius. His own hands raked hungrily over the blonde's back, digging into the flesh and tangling in the long hair.
"Want you so much," whispered Lucius hoarsely when Harry bucked and arched against him.
"Yeah," groaned Harry, kissing Lucius yet again, feeling a tingle in his abused lips and in his groin. "Want you, too …" That leg between his always managed to turn him to putty, Harry thought hazily. It was just the right kind of pressure and force, just the right rhythm to set him off …
He kissed Lucius' jaw and neck, ripping his shirt open with unsteady hands and licking the exposed, incredibly sexy chest, sucking briefly on a nipple before going deeper down. Lucius' hands let go of him without hesitation. A heavy six pack of muscles invited Harry to push his tongue into the navel before he nipped at them.
"Yesss," hissed Lucius sharply when Harry's tongue pushed against his erection through the fabric of his trousers.
"Oh, God," Harry moaned breathily. He wanted, WANTED to open those damn trousers and get what he desired, he WANTED to have Lucius' cock in his mouth, WANTED to do naughty things with it. His fingers shook even more when he tried to undo the buttons impatiently. Lucius' breath was laboured, his right hand was heavily caressing Harry's hair-
"Goddammit," came a cursing voice from the corridor. "Damn, fucking Floo connections nowadays! Harry! Harry, are you at home?" It crackled ominously, somebody called via Floo.
"Ignore him!" snarled Lucius testily and not too quietly. Harry was inclined to follow that comment. His fingers curled eagerly around Lucius' now free cock, and his lips were just about to close around the desired piece of flesh.
"Harry! The light is on, is everything okay?" the voice yelled again. "I can come through if you have problems."
With a jolt Harry shot away from Lucius and stood back on his feet, faster than a lighting bolt could flare up and die again.
"Harry, it's important!" called the voice urgently, unnecessarily: Harry was already stepping away from Lucius. With his hands he made a slitting motion across his throat, vehemently showing that his employer was the last person he wanted in his apartment right now.
"Just one second, Mr Pipe," Harry called back hastily when Lucius had nodded tersely and unhappily, looking frantically for his shirt. He found it hanging on the lamp and quickly put it on. Rushing into the corridor, he tried to flatten his stubborn hair with both hands, but to no avail. He looked debauched as it was, though.
Lucius watched disbelievingly as Harry ran from him, leaving him frustrated and feeling extraordinarily cheated. Harry's shamed look did nothing to quell the urge to do something deadly to the offending, disrupting man, like wringing his neck or stabbing him with a soup spoon.
For a few minutes Mr Pipe had all of Harry's attention. They didn't talk for long, in fact Harry was back sooner than he had thought. Still, the time had been enough for Lucius to get halfway dressed again.
Harry's face was red when he came back into the room. "Merlin, I'm sorry," he said, flustered beyond description. "I don't know what he really wanted, all he said was that Lori was being swamped with Muggle mail, and that a few curses have hit her. She's in St Mungo's right now …" He trailed off and eyed Lucius apprehensively. "Obviously they found yet another way to send them, although I already have a Ministry order for work …"
Lucius bit back a growl and ran a hand through his hair. "Just smashing," he said with a hint of bitterness in his voice.
Harry buried his face in his hands and sighed. If only his face would stop burning from embarrassment! He had gone down on Lucius, for crying out loud! What in the seven hells had prompted him to do that, other than his own, selfish needs? It didn't matter that Lucius had been more than willing, the only thing that mattered was that Harry felt even worse for using Lucius to satisfy his desires.
"I need a drink," said Harry and quickly went to pour himself and his guest a Firewhisky. The glasses were much fuller than usual, and he was tempted to tip his back in one go.
"As do I," muttered Lucius sulkily, accepting the glass and deliberately curling his fingers around Harry's.
They stared at each other and then drained their drinks in shared frustration. Harry felt awkward whereas Lucius only seemed angry and annoyed. Harry understood the unforgiving mood, because he trusted Lucius when he said that he hadn't taken any new lovers after his divorce from Narcissa (and that tryst with himself).
Harry blushed heavily once again. The thought of a randy Lucius did NOTHING to calm his own, still boiling blood down. If he wasn't so embarrassed he would have even considered starting making out again, maybe even …
"Maybe you should get dressed," said Lucius, still sounding petulant and a tad angry.
"Please don't be angry," said Harry pleadingly. "I'm sorry, I really am."
"It's not your fault," sighed Lucius. "Still, if you don't get dressed I might think again about your offer to rape me and take you up on it." His lips curved in a teasing smirk. "Or perhaps I'd just reverse the roles."
Harry swallowed the sound of appreciation that wanted to leave his throat and quickly nodded. "All right, I'll get ready. Would you mind waiting? I could switch on the stereo, or the television."
"I'll just have a look at your apartment," said Lucius, still smirking. "And I'll redo my outfit, thank you."
Harry bit his lip and left the living room. Maybe it was a good thing that he was taking a shower now … enough time to let off some steam.
In the shower his mind was seemingly exploding with images of him and Lucius, and his body was acting on its own. Desire surged through him, burning him from inside out. The rushing water from above sounded his choked moans out, and much too soon Harry felt himself letting go.
But this was nothing, nothing in comparison to Lucius' touches. He felt empty and still wrung too tight for comfort. His little five-finger-trip had brought him nothing but the aching revelation that he simply couldn't stay alone. For Merlin's sake, he was still aroused!
Groaning in despair, he wrapped himself in a big towel and traipsed out of the shower into his bedroom. From his wardrobe Hedwig and Paja were looking at him knowingly. Hedwig even blinked conspiratorially. Just then there was a tapping against his window and Harry resignedly went to let Merlot in as well.
Dressing while having three curious birds sitting on the wardrobe was an experience Harry could do without. At least he managed to look decent when he was done. A bit hair gel completed his out-of-bed style. Without his glasses he looked much better, he thought once again when he looked at his reflection. The scar was still standing out but since they were going to a Muggle event Harry didn't think he would be recognised.
Finally he pulled himself together and left his bedroom. Maybe it was a good thing that Lucius had come earlier after all. That way he could tell Harry if there was something wrong with his appearance.
Said man was just having a look at Harry's quite extensive collection of Dark Arts books when Harry entered. Lucius' index finger gently slipped off a book spine when he turned around. His steely eyes took every inch of Harry in, the way he had done his hair, and how his champagne-coloured shirt and his caramel-coloured, silky tie contrasted with the black suit as well as the black leather shoes.
"I'm impressed," said Lucius softly after a few moments. "You look fine."
Harry blushed. "You too." Lucius had redone his cravat and repaired his shirt. Harry was colouring up again by just thinking about how eagerly he had ripped that shirt to shreds. Lucius had donned the classical colours: black suit, silvery grey vest, creamy white shirt and dark bluish-grey, shimmering cravat that set off his light eyes stunningly. His hair was bound back with a bow of the same colour. "Sorry for your buttons," he offered lamely, wishing the earth would swallow him up.
Lucius chuckled. "Don't worry about them, my dear." He offered his arm and Harry accepted shyly. "We're a bit early, we could have a drink before the opera starts."
"That would be nice," replied Harry, relieved that Lucius no longer seemed angry for being interrupted. To be honest, Harry was cursing his kind, old employer profusely for his decidedly lacking sense of timing. Honestly, who was calling a young man on a Saturday night?!
Lucius helped him into his coat before he donned his own, and then they already Apparated away to Diagon Alley. Quite a few people were on their way out of the country tonight, so Harry and Lucius had to wait for a bit. They both sensed the stares of the people, and they heard the whispers.
When it was their turn to Apparate Lucius looked ready to kill the next person who said something about them. Harry intervened though, grabbing Lucius' hand tightly and urging him on to Apparate them to their destination. They would deal with those people later; this night out was theirs, and Harry would be damned if he let them ruin it.
The rush and the distinct feeling of leaving a part of you behind until both parts snapped back together, couldn't come too soon for both of them. They had landed in a street that obviously was the Italian equivalent to Diagon Alley. They left it soon and Lucius hired a carriage, giving the driver instructions in Italian.
"Do you speak it fluently?" Harry asked, impressed. Lucius helped him into the carriage and then sat next to Harry.
"Yes, I do," he said. "A branch of my family descends from the Medici and my ancestors were quite proud of that fact. Every Malfoy speaks Italian ever since." Lucius smiled coolly. "Of course, it goes without saying that the Medici were quite ambitious, and the few offsprings with magical powers were quickly married off into our circles to further their influence."
"All I know is that the Medici were rather insane," said Harry carefully.
Lucius' eyebrows rose slightly. "That, too. But as you can see, it took an undesirable and unfortunate end with most of them, so it doesn't matter anymore. After that menace my ancestors were wise enough to spread the blood far and in between to keep it healthy. I don't know how or why Muggles weakened their own families like they did."
"And yet it remained pure?"
"Yes. My elders had sense in that matter but it didn't lessen their drive to keep it pure." Lucius smiled suddenly, a warm, true smile. "But it doesn't matter anymore. Draco already chose to do whatever he wishes to do, and I doubt that I'll have the nerves to have another child with someone."
"Isn't it sad to see your traditions die like that?" Harry asked quietly. The night over Rome was clear and beautiful. Both his and Lucius' eyes fell on an old villa that was illuminated by spots and looked as if it was taken from a fairytale.
Lucius sighed and leaned back. "We might wish that things can exist forever, but they don't. That's history, and that's life. In a way it's very liberating not to have that pressure on me anymore."
Harry silently took Lucius' gloved hand and squeezed it comfortingly. He, who had never had that deep sense of tradition and belonging, felt the loss only deeper on Lucius' behalf.
Together they watched old buildings and parks and open construction sites. Cars were honking all the time, and despite the cold time of the year people were out and about, talking excitedly with each other in that rhythmic, animating language. The deeper the carriage brought them into the old town of Rome and its tourist areas, the more beautiful the sight got. Harry was so in awe of the old houses, villas and streets and churches that he almost forgot that he was still holding Lucius' hand tightly.
Finally the carriage stopped in front of a huge palazzo. They stepped onto the street and walked slowly over the place and to an exclusive looking café. Lucius led Harry in; it was obvious that he had been here before. Even the chief waiter seemed to know Lucius and bowed when he saw him. Every guest was dressed up just as they both were, and Harry wondered if he would see some of them at the opera again.
Even though it was Saturday and thus very crowded they got a table immediately. Lucius answered Harry's curious look with a smug smile. A young waitress asked for their orders and Lucius answered, speaking easily to her. Harry tried to catch the words but it was difficult since they were both talking so quickly.
Only minutes later she brought them their drinks, Martini for Lucius and Prosecco for Harry.
"I like it here," said Harry, carefully sipping from the sparkly, bubbly liquid. It was stronger than sparkling wine, or at least he thought it was, but it still tasted nice. "And I like the language."
"I knew you would," replied Lucius, toasting to Harry. "To you, my dear."
Harry blushed and toasted back. They had just time for one drink, then they went back onto the piazza where the carriage was waiting for them. They climbed in and enjoyed the ride to the opera house.
The whole city seemed to be dressed up for Christmas, Harry noted. There were lights and spotlights everywhere, illuminating even the smallest sights. Groups of tourists wandered through the streets, chatting loudly with each other and shooting pictures of everything. From afar Harry could see a Christmas fair amidst old, respectable houses. The distinct lack of snow didn't lessen the festive atmosphere in the least.
They stopped in front of a huge building that looked as Italian as it possibly could. It too was illuminated by spotlights. At least one hundred people stood already there, waiting for newcomers and looking who was showing up. Lucius exchanged a few words with the driver and then tipped him.
"Come, let's get this circus over with," murmured Lucius when he helped Harry out of the carriage.
"Do you know anybody here?" Harry asked, silently revelling in the feel of Lucius' hands around his forearm.
"Unfortunately," said Lucius with something akin to self-pity. "Let's find them before they find us."
Together they made their way through the people. Lucius greeted a lot of people along their way. He presented Harry as his company for tonight and as a close friend. Harry did his best not to embarrass Lucius; he kissed several women on the cheek or the hand and shook a lot of hands. A few were even interested enough to ask about his job and where he and Lucius had met. In some faces he could also see the aloof suspicion that Lucius was only interested in his company for certain physical reasons.
In his opinion the upper society was as much of a circus as he'd always believed it to be. Harry was slowly getting angry when the twentieth woman eyed him up like some piece of candy and the seventeenth man looked at him with a sneer. Naturally Lucius noticed and was reassuring him with his hand on the small of Harry's back.
Finally they were through the crowd and went up the stairs of the opera house. They entered, and two men in uniform greeted them politely. The hall was already filled with a vast number of people; much more than those who had been standing outside.
Lucius took Harry's coat and went to give it to a young man in the cloakroom. When he came back he had two programs and opera glasses with him.
"Here, you'll need that," he said smoothly, teasing Harry with the glasses. "Our play tonight is 'La Traviata'."
He took Harry's arm, and together they wandered through the hall, watching portraits and paintings. Lucius told Harry the story of the play so he wouldn't get lost, especially since the language was Italian and not English. Some people approached them and talked shortly with Lucius. Most the blonde knew but some obviously just wanted to meet him because he looked wealthy. Sharp looks out of Harry's bright green eyes chased them away soon enough, anyway.
"I hope you'll forgive me that," murmured Lucius, leaning very close and almost brushing Harry's ear while speaking. "They're like vultures, aren't they?"
"Not even marginally better than OUR kind," said Harry in a clipped voice. A fat woman had tried to hold his hand, simpering at him in a horrible, Umbridge-like fashion. Only Lucius' possessive grip had kept him from hexing her.
"I'll make it up to you," promised Lucius. His eyes were gleaming in the soft lamplight, taking in Harry's pursed lips. His lips curled in a smile. "And soon."
Another man in uniform was leading them to a secluded door which led to a loge. He bowed when Harry and Lucius entered, and after them he closed the door respectfully.
"Wow, this is grand," said Harry, astounded about the perfect view they had at the stage. Under them other people were filing into the hall and taking their seats. Loud chatter sounded up to him. He also saw other loges and watched their occupants for a while, smirking when fat matrons and men tried to seat themselves without embarrassing themselves too much.
When he turned around again there was an open bottle of Pinot, two glasses and a bowl with salted peanuts on the table. Lucius waited until Harry had sat down in the comfortable plush chair before he poured them both a glass and sat down himself.
Soon the light music tuned out, the lights were turned off and the play began. Harry was instantly captivated by the colourful costumes, the theatrical way the actors played, and, of course, the music and the voices.
He watched through his opera glasses as the play unfolded and progressed. The singers' voices rose and fell, creating moods along with the little world in which the play took place. Harry was so excited and fascinated that he drank more wine than usual and even grabbed hold of Lucius' hand when the drama started.
Lucius' little side comments helped him understand the story rather than annoying him, especially since he only talked when the actors were talking as well, never during singing.
The language and the energy of the music and voices filled him with enthusiasm, a feeling that he had had several times already when visiting another country and learning new things, and each time it had brought him nothing but joy.
Lucius' warm hand held his until the play was over and both applauded the actors and the orchestra. Harry was feeling a bit light-headed; he wasn't used to Italian wine or Prosecco. Still, he was feeling good, ecstatic even.
Half an hour later they left the opera house and Lucius hired another carriage. Harry was pleasantly tipsy and leaned against the blonde during the ride, admiring everything his eyes fell onto. Lucius, who was holding Harry comfortably, thought that Rome was that much more beautiful if there was someone with you who saw it for the first time. Harry's enthusiasm awakened so many different feelings in him.
They stopped in front of a palazzo and got off the carriage. People were meandering around them, walking here and there and watching the stars interestedly. Somewhere a big church bell started stroking, and others joined from all over the city. Lucius took Harry's arm again, and together they strolled over the piazza and into the foyer of a big, elegant restaurant.
A waiter greeted them as soon as they set foot into the foyer. He gave a sign to another waiter and then proceeded to lead Lucius and Harry to an elevator. They rode upstairs until they reached a winter garden. Only two other couples sat there, each of them carefully shielded with large plants. Somewhere, quite hidden from view, a few musicians were playing classical Italian music.
The whole winter garden was only illuminated by uncounted candles and small oil lamps. Lucius helped Harry out of his coat before he took his own off and handed both to the waiting waiter. When the man was gone he held Harry's chair out for him.
"Somehow I can't shake off the feeling that you want to achieve something with your gentleman attitude," said Harry teasingly.
"Don't I ever?" teased Lucius back.
"Rome looks like a city out of a fairy tale," sighed Harry happily. His eyes swept over the vast sight of the glittering city and the clear night sky. Myriads of stars twinkled back. The moon shone brightly to their left, and its image mirrored in the dark blue sea far, far away. He could feel a touch of magic, so perhaps the window was charmed to show the sea. His eyes turned back to Lucius, and he couldn't help but let his admiration and gratitude show. "Thanks for tonight."
"You're very welcome, Harry," replied Lucius, trying and failing miserably to repress a smug smile. Yet another waiter approached them and asked for their wishes. He noted Lucius' orders for wine and vanished just as quickly.
The wine came, without the bothersome ritual of the maitre clinking around with his many keys. Lucius had obviously gone out of his way to ensure his and Harry's privacy, which was much more of a gift than anything else. The chief waiter accompanied the wine, giving out richly decorated menus.
Lucius asked for today's recommendations but quickly declined when the chef waiter mentioned scampi. Harry bit back a chuckle, not even bothering to hide his amusement. After a while Harry decided to try a lamb dish while Lucius chose saltimbocca alla romana. Soon aperitifs and small entrees, the antipasti, were served, and Lucius encouraged Harry to try everything, including the drinks.
"Now, Harry, we never got around to talking about your wishes for your future," said Lucius after they had finished their first drink. "I meant to ask you for a while now."
Harry's eyebrow rose. "Yes, well, I don't have many plans at the moment. It's a bit difficult to make plans when everybody is hating and sabotaging me."
"I guess you're right," admitted Lucius, smoothing his napkin slowly. "But what if everything was all right? Would you really want to spend your life in London?"
Harry drained the last of his Martini. He was feeling rather drunk already but still pleasantly so. Usually he didn't drink as much, maybe that shot of Firewhisky that afternoon had been pushing it.
"See, that's my dilemma," he said, refusing another drink with a smile. "On the one hand I really like that job, and I also like Mr Pipe and his team. On the other hand I'd love to leave England for a good long while. I was even considering moving away for good, forever." He smirked sardonically. "And with nearly everybody hating me I almost think it'd be best."
"Why do you let yourself be tied down like that?" Lucius asked, sipping on his drink. His hair shone luxuriously in the candlelight. "You're young, you have money and you certainly deserve a break."
"I don't deserve the money," said Harry at once. "And I owe you some for that wedding, too."
"Let's not talk about money now," said Lucius with a fine sharpness in his cultured voice. "In fact, I would like it if you could forget about it."
"Why are you doing that?" Harry asked. "You know I hate it. And I can pay you back. I want it, because it's my fault you wasted it. I'll only feel good when this is settled."
"Harry," Lucius looked at him with a force that unsettled Harry; he had never seen Lucius look at him like that. "That wedding, or it's disaster, is rather my son's fault than yours. If I were to demand the money back from you I would have to get it back from Draco as well." He took Harry's hand and squeezed the fingers almost painfully. "And if I were to decide whose fault it is that it crashed it would be my son's, not yours."
Just then two waiters appeared, each carrying a tray that was covered with a silver bowl. They set the table, took the aperitif glasses and the dishes from their pasta away and bowed before they vanished again. Lucius was forced to let go of Harry's hand while they served, and Harry snatched it back. Suddenly he felt so insecure again because no matter how often or how kindly Lucius told him that it didn't matter it was hard to believe.
"I told you that I'm glad you found out what you want before it was too late," said Lucius, much milder now. "I'd have given a lot more than that money if it had helped you find that out for yourself."
Harry sighed deeply and dared to look up again. "Why are you doing that for me?" he asked quietly. "I'm such a bother to you. I wish I could make it up to you."
"If we tried to make everything up to each other we would waste our time doing nothing else," chided Lucius gently, smirking. "I prefer to spend my time with you without worrying about that. Why don't we just call it even and start over?" He leaned a bit over the table, lowering his voice a bit. "And if you keep up moaning about that money I'll spank you until you're too hoarse to do it any longer. Are we clear?"
Harry smiled softly. "Very clear, Sir," he murmured, glancing cockily at his generous host.
"Very good, my dear," purred Lucius and raised his glass. When Harry had done the same he said, "To us."
"To us," said Harry and sipped from the excellent wine.
For a while they busied themselves with the food, enjoying the wonderful taste. After a while they started exchanging bites so they could have a taste of each others' food. Instead of just swapping plates they fed each other over the table.
Now that the money wasn't an issue anymore Harry relaxed quickly and enjoyed Lucius' witty company thoroughly. The man told him stories about the Ministry that had Harry bristling and laughing at the same time. He also made cutting remarks about the board of governors and Hogwarts in general. For once Harry wasn't inclined to disagree; everything Lucius had to say had fact value.
They made to finish their food. Even though it had been a good portion Harry didn't feel as full as he'd feared he would be. The cart wheels of a big Christmas fair a few streets away reminded him of something he'd wanted to ask Lucius for days now.
"Do you know what you'll do on Christmas?" Harry queried carefully, watching Lucius from under his lashes.
The blonde sighed and set his cutlery down. "I don't know. Severus asked me if I'd like to spend it with him and Weasley, but you'll understand that I've politely declined his generous offer."
"And I guess Draco isn't coming home this year," said Harry with a touch of bitterness.
"No, he won't," replied Lucius stiffly. "I wouldn't wish for his company, anyway."
"Well," said Harry, biting his lip, "would you want to spend it with me?" He looked up, and in Lucius' carefully schooled, indifferent face. "I mean, not only for Christmas Eve but the whole holiday."
"Don't you have a family party at the Weasley's?" said Lucius rigidly. "I assume they'd be quite upset if you didn't show up for the festivities."
Harry waved that away. A smile was blossoming on his face, and his shyness quickly vanished. "So? I have been there every year so far. It won't hurt if I have my own plans for a change." He grinned. "Besides, now that you declined Snape's offer you are aware that Charlie will drag him to said festivities. Kicking and screaming if he has to."
Lucius raised both eyebrows in surprise. "I wasn't aware that Severus was that desperate to escape Molly's clutches."
Laughing, Harry playfully grabbed Lucius' hand and stroked it affectionately with his fingers. "I can do without this trouble for once, believe me. We could spend the time at my place, just, I don't know, hanging around and talking and waiting for Christmas. I'll cook and we'll spend a wonderful, decadent time."
"I hope you're not pitying me, Harry. Otherwise I'd be very much offended," retorted Lucius a bit shortly.
Harry snorted with laughter. "Believe me, I'm anything but. In fact, I believe my selfishness shows yet again, and you'll rescue me from a very loud and disturbing Christmas with the Weasleys who'll maul me upon sight and ask millions of annoying questions." He shuddered exaggeratedly and then grinned.
"In that case I find myself very much obliged to accept your invitation," said Lucius lightly. "After all, when will I get the chance to be a knight in shining armour again?"
"Too true," sighed Harry with a meaningful smirk. "It's settled then. I expect you next Saturday around five. That way we can have tea and see how it progresses from there."
"I'd like that," purred Lucius with a lewd smirk. There was no doubt about what he meant.
"Oh, you!" admonished Harry with much less force than he probably should. Instead he grabbed his glass and took a large swig of his wine.
"Well," said Lucius when they were finally done extinguishing their food half an hour later. Harry had dutifully been drinking the wine Lucius had poured him tirelessly and was now quite drunk. "What do you say to a little game?"
"What game?" Harry asked pleasantly. Lucius looked so good tonight, so … edible. His head swam but he couldn't bring himself to care.
"Twenty questions," replied Lucius slyly. He told a waiter to bring them two dishes of tiramisu and then waved him away. "I ask and you answer."
"Can I ask you too when you're finished?" Harry asked. "Fair play, my dear."
"I forgot how annoyingly Gryffindor you can be. But you may." Lucius smirked at Harry and sipped on his own wine. His barely concealed leer told clearly that he wasn't about to ask innocuous questions. "Question number one: how do you like your kisses?"
"Involved," said Harry at once, a wistful smile on his lips. "I like them hot, then gentle, then deep and then shallow, teasing me." He leaned back and watched Lucius thoughtfully. "But most of all I like them passionate, persuading and seducing me." He emptied the last of his wine and accepted Lucius' offer for more.
"Number two: Where do you like to be touched?" Lucius' eyes were now glittering hungrily but Harry was far too relaxed to notice.
"Curious, aren't you?" Harry teased. "You did a good job, you found a lot of my sensitive areas." He eyed Lucius openly, as if seeing the man for the first time. "You bit my neck and my shoulders … I loved that, and my nipples, and my thighs …" He shuddered in delight when he recounted that night with Lucius. Without shame he listed all of his sensitive spots. He didn't even notice when a waiter cleared the table and exchanged his wine glass with a shot glass and the wine with amaretto liquor.
Lucius asked a lot more questions, and Harry knew that he should answer them more carefully, or at least be suitably indignant about the intimacy. But really, he couldn't care less. It was such a wonderful night, and he was having so much fun talking about his desires, because other than his boyfriends he'd never had someone to discuss this with, not even Ron and Hermione. And with Lucius he could at least be sure that nothing of this would find its way into the newspapers.
"You like it when you're held down?" Lucius asked, the last of his twenty questions, with audible surprise and hunger in his voice. Harry, drunk as he now was, ignored it blissfully and just nodded.
"Yes, and also to be overwhelmed and," he stared at the blonde and licked his lips, "claimed." Harry felt desire surge up in him, but he was also tired. The wine and all his other drinks had reduced his scruples into non-existence and he just wished that they weren't in a fancy restaurant but in a bed, and that they wouldn't wear so many clothes and that Lucius would simply kiss him with those Merlin-be-damned sexy lips and-
--
"Uuuuuh," moaned Harry when he woke from his deep sleep.
"Good afternoon, Harry," said Lucius with a broad smile. "Did you sleep well?"
Harry groaned and pressed his palms against his eyes. The waning daylight that filtered through drawn curtains hurt, his throat was parched and he generally felt like shit.
"I take it as a no," Lucius continued jovially. He held a glass of water against Harry's lips and urged him to drink it down.
Harry obeyed but not without making a face. "That tasted disgusting," he said crankily when he was done, plopping back into the pillows.
"Yes, but pure you'd never have drunk the hangover cure, let alone kept it down," chuckled Lucius amusedly. "Honestly, whatever prompted you to drink so much?" His catty smirk was raising Harry's hackles, and he obviously knew it.
"And why didn't you stop me?" Harry hissed testily. The stuff was working WAY too slowly!
Raising both hands, Lucius tried to look innocent. "I would never tell you what to do or not. You're an adult, Harry. Don't try to put the blame on me."
Beaten by such flattering arguments, Harry just sighed in defeat. "Thanks for the potion, then," he offered meekly.
"Don't you want to ask me if I did naughty things with you after you passed out?" Lucius asked saucily. "It was the perfect opportunity, after all."
"Did you now?" Harry answered unconcernedly. "Since when do you enjoy doing sleeping people?"
"Touché." Lucius pretended to sulk. "I'd rather they are awake and responding to my amazing skills."
The fog started to lift in Harry's head, and the pain was ebbing away, thankfully. He sighed. "Oh dear, I'm sorry for passing out on you. I just hope I didn't babble some utter nonsense to top it all off …"
"Don't worry about that," quipped Lucius, smiling rather meanly. "I took a few pictures, that's compensating me for everything."
"Mean, evil bastard," muttered Harry. The last remnants of his sickness and tiredness vanished and he felt refreshed enough to get up and take a much-needed shower.
After that he dressed and then he and Lucius left the hotel, just wandering through the streets of Rome. It was dark again outside, and the air was very chilly. The noise coming from the Christmas fair seemed especially loud and finally Harry convinced Lucius to walk over the fair and have a look. He even managed to drag him into several cart wheels.
"This was the last time I'm going to a fair with you," growled the blonde when they had gotten off a particularly vicious roller coaster.
"I have one year to convince you," chirped Harry sweetly, batting his eyelashes. "And don't think I won't do everything in my might to try."
Lucius raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Well, we'll see about that, then." He smoothed out his hair and then took Harry's arm, steering him into a spook house. "But now I think it's best if we go home. You need some rest."
Harry snickered. "I gave you every reason to think that, didn't I?" He snuggled up to the man and wound both arms around his waist. "I'm sorry for embarrassing you."
"As you should be," replied Lucius teasingly, wound both arms around Harry's body and Apparated them home.
Diagon Alley was packed with people, and those who saw them were staring, so they quickly said their goodbyes and Apparated away to their respective homes.
End of chapter 2
