Hello everyone, thanks again for reading and reviewing. This time, I finally want to thank my wonderful beta, furorscribiendi, for her fantastic work on my sometimes bumpy English g Thanks a lot for your input, I really appreciated it.
Well, this is a Christmas chapter, although it's late June. I apologize but really, would you like to wait until the appropriate time comes? I thought not ;-)
Have fun reading. Please leave a note and let me know if you liked it, or not, or something in between.
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December 24th, Christmas Eve …
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Harry was humming happily when he cleaned his flat. The whole last week had been trouble without comparison; the papers had yet again gone out of their ways and published articles about him and Lucius, one more ludicrous than the last. Rita Skeeter (under her latest nickname) had even dared to call Harry Lucius' newest boy toy, which had Harry hating her even more. And here he had thought it wasn't possible to hate someone more than Voldemort.
Ron, Hermione and all the other Weasleys had been appalled when Harry had confessed his plans for Christmas. Molly had screamed herself hoarse and Bill was now sulking for all he was worth. Of course Harry wished to see them, but really, he didn't HAVE to spend each and every Christmas with his adopted family. He was happy to celebrate without them for a change. Besides, he needed a break from big groups of people.
In the end he had haggled out a get-together after the second day of Christmas. He knew that they would miss him, as he would miss them. Still, this time he wanted something else, and he was very far from bringing Lucius along. Ron had asked him (and rather incredulously too) if he really chose Lucius over them and Harry hadn't been ashamed to say that, yes, he would, and had. After that admission Ron had just looked at him strangely and then let it rest.
Right now he was putting on the finishing touches. A beautifully adorned tree stood in his living room, in a niche next to the merrily burning fire in his fireplace. Oh, after that incident last Saturday he was so grateful that he'd had the sense to only open the small one in his corridor for the Floo network! He didn't want to think what would have happened if Mr Pipe had seen him doing … things to Lucius.
Christmas dinner for tomorrow was standing in the fridge, already prepared. He had just planned a bit of cheese fondue and raw vegetables for tonight. He didn't plan on stuffing himself or his guest before the real feast.
Ten past five the doorbell rang and Harry went to get the door. This time he was mindful to put any domestic cleaning items away before he did. That make-out session was firmly imprinted in his mind and he didn't want to embarrass himself by getting hot just having a feather duster in his hand.
Opening the door, Harry instantly noticed how good Lucius looked with his simple yet elegant black cloak and his loose hair. He let him in and put his cloak away. Lucius spelled his shoes clean of the snow that had been falling all week. Without a word Harry hugged him tightly, enjoying the warmth that radiated off the man so generously. Gods, it had been mere days in which they hadn't seen each other, but he had missed him.
"Spoiling me again," tutted Lucius teasingly, gently stroking Harry's back. "Last week was hard, wasn't it?"
Harry rolled his eyes. "I'm really doubting their intelligence," he said long-sufferingly. "But I kept the articles to remind me of their stupidity."
Lucius kept a straight face when he said, "I bought shares of the Daily prophet a while ago. They're really doing nicely with you as main target. In a few weeks I'll sell everything and watch how the stocks are falling." He smirked. "And I'll take care of that."
Harry led his guest into the living room and offered a seat by the fire. He knew of Lucius' weakness for single malt whiskey and had a bottle, two glasses and ice standing on a small table between the armchairs. Soft swing music was sounding through the room, giving the festive atmosphere the little animating kick. Both he and Lucius could do without sappy Christmas songs.
"I like your apartment," said Lucius after he had settled down elegantly. "Your style is fitting your personality."
"Thanks," said Harry, strangely touched by the compliment. "Ron always says that it's just a mess of furniture." He stroked over his liquor cabinet. "I collected a lot of my furniture during my travels. They remind me of the best times of my life." He grinned. "I have a lot more in store at Gringotts, though."
He sat in his armchair and raised his glass. "Thanks for coming. To a merry Christmas, I guess."
Lucius smirked and raised his glass. "I still can't believe that you stood up the whole Weasley clan for me. I'm touched."
"I know," said Harry smugly. "After years finally a Christmas that passes like I want it to pass." He glanced at Lucius, and mischief was dancing in his eyes. "Besides, how could I enjoy it, knowing that you're all alone? That way I get to annoy you thoroughly for three days in a row. I simply couldn't let that opportunity pass."
"Evil brat," retorted Lucius with an amused smirk.
They spent an hour or so just sitting in front of the fire, enjoying their drinks and talking. Minutes passed by, and the more time passed the more Harry wished he could be closer to his friend. Lucius' smooth, manly voice drew him in, just like his moving hands. He had rolled up the sleeves of his shirt, and never had Harry been gladder to have killed Voldemort than in that moment. Lucius' left forearm was unblemished and pale and perfect, just as it was supposed to be.
When they started on their third drink Harry was getting restless. He got up and wandered through the living room, all the while debating with Lucius about the pros and cons of supporting Muggle-borns. Naturally Lucius was against it, Harry was for it. From there they progressed to wizards and witches who lived as famous Muggles, Shakespeare, for instance.
"How can someone miss the magic in his sonnets?" Lucius asked rhetorically. "Of course he was a wizard." He smirked and quoted, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate …"
"And why would he live as a Muggle if he was a wizard?" Harry argued vehemently. "Obviously he didn't like OUR society and I bet he had ample reason not to."
"I beg to differ," retorted Lucius mildly. "If anything, it was his own wish. Our society was worshipping him. True, his father was a Muggle, but he did make a good living, even then when the pureblood society of his time was notorious in their claim of being the best. No, he fell in love with a Muggle woman from the Queen's court, so he left the wizarding world." He sneered. "He wasn't that good-looking, his idealistic heart got broken, but he remained there, falling in love with woman after woman and the occasional boy until he died. He never returned."
He got up and sauntered over to Harry's bookshelves, searching and quickly finding a small book of sonnets. "Let's read them," he suggested. "In some of them you can feel the magic tingling over you."
So they reclined on the sofa, Harry leaning against Lucius and listening to his expressive voice. The blonde had been right, during some sonnets he really felt a tingle of magic pass over his skin when Lucius read them.
A bit later Harry prepared their light dinner. Lucius insisted on helping him, and so Harry watched the cheese melt while Lucius heated the mulled wine and cut up vegetables. The mood was light and carefree, as if only the two of them existed.
Dinner was a different affair. Lucius wasn't used to finger food and needed a bit time to come to terms with stubborn, runny cheese and having to dip his pepper slices by hand into said sticky substance. They managed though, more or less unharmed. Harry was still snickering about Lucius' unfortunate handling of their dinner when they had made it through.
"I don't see a point in eating without cutlery," said Lucius indignantly, moving in front of the fireplace and settling on the soft rug. "It's rather unhygienic to touch your food with bare hands."
Chuckling, Harry waved his wand and cleared the table. "Perhaps, but it does strengthen your immune system." He poured two glasses of mulled wine and handed Lucius one. He then sat next to him. "Stop pouting. Tomorrow you can have as much cutlery as you want."
"Impertinent brat," said Lucius with a playful scowl. He pushed his hair over his shoulder, staring into the fire.
"Are you angry at me for laughing at you?" purred Harry, wrapping his arms around Lucius' neck from behind. "Hypocrite, if you weren't so well-educated you'd laugh at me all the time because I'm messing things up."
Lucius drank his mulled wine and kept silent. Only his smirk was a tell-tale sign that Harry was right. For long minutes they just stared into the fire, Harry still hanging literally off of Lucius throat. When their glasses were empty, Harry sighed and rubbed his cheek affectionately against Lucius' soft hair. His hands snuck from Lucius' shoulders to his chest, stroking it slowly, purposefully.
"Don't be angry at me. I couldn't stand it," he murmured tenderly. His voice turned darker, almost to a begging sigh. "I'm lonely, Lucius. I miss lying in someone's arms." The blonde's sculptured chest felt wonderful under his fingers, and the shirt did nothing to obscure the tantalising forms.
"What are you trying to say?" Lucius asked quietly, breathlessly. He turned his head and looked carefully into Harry's smouldering eyes.
Harry sighed again and licked lightly over Lucius' ear. That warm, inviting scent nearly drove him crazy. "Only that I'm feeling lonely, and that I'd like it to be your arms that I can lay in." His hands were still massaging Lucius' chest, now concentrating on his nipples. "I'd like to kiss you …"
Now Lucius turned fully around, gathering Harry in his arms and sealing his mouth with his own. Without needing any other words of encouragement he lowered him onto his back, pressing himself against the pliant, willing body. The kiss was gentle, yet passionate, sweet when it really should be hot and tangy.
The swing music sounded through the room, enveloping the men that were kissing each other hungrily until they couldn't kiss anymore in fear of losing themselves too much. Hands travelled devoutly over heated skin, removing pieces of clothing along the way, one by one in a slow process.
Harry arched against Lucius when he suckled at the spot just between his neck and shoulder. His needy whimpers were only encouraging his lover further; with small kisses Lucius meandered to the other side, repeating his teasing. Their naked chests touched, and Harry's arms were holding on to Lucius tightly, as if fearing to let him go again.
This felt right, all of it. Lucius' elegant, strong hands were holding Harry just the right way, his wonderful mouth was just sucking on his nipples the right way, and his hard abdomen was just pressing against his erection like THAT.
Moaning and sighing, they groped and bit and sucked and licked and, above all, kissed. Harry rolled them over, and this time his hungry gaze promised to make good of what they'd started a week ago. Like a snake Harry slithered down on Lucius' body, licking here and nipping there, freeing his prey of the last few garments that were obscuring his prize.
Lucius pushed himself on his elbows, watching Harry out of heavily lidded eyes. Harry revelled in the attention, taking his sweet time. His tongue first tickled Lucius' cock teasingly before it ran up the shaft slowly. Oh, he wanted to play with it forever, give Lucius so much pleasure.
Humming contentedly, Harry traced Lucius' cock devotedly with his tongue before he swept over the head and tasted him for the first time. Suddenly there were hands in his hair, gripping tightly, but not hurtfully so. Carefully Lucius urged him to do more, to please him. Harry complied; he had barely room for any other thoughts right now anyway. He went down on Lucius, taking as much as he could into his mouth before abandoning him with a swift move and sucking only on the head of his cock as compensation. Lucius' pants and hisses of pleasure encouraged him to do it again and again. His hand started fondling Lucius' balls like he'd wished to do for a while now.
Soon he kept down, however, deep-throating Lucius easily as if he'd never stopped doing it a few months ago. Lucius lost his composure, groaning roughly and still demanding more. Humming again, Harry swallowed around that cock and so brought Lucius quicker to orgasm than he would have thought possible. Salty come burned in his throat and he happily swallowed it all before he slithered back up the heated body to kiss his lover on the mouth.
"Little minx," rasped Lucius, embracing Harry tightly. He kissed back, stealing the taste of himself from Harry's tongue. "Thank you."
"You're very welcome," replied Harry lazily and a bit hoarsely, rocking his hips against Lucius'.
For a while they just kissed and caressed before Lucius pushed Harry on his back once more. Again he attacked his neck and chest before he pushed Harry's legs apart and went down on him as well. He ignored his dripping cock, though. In its stead he turned to the inside of Harry's thighs, licking harshly over the sensitive underside before biting not too gently. He also kept a tight hold on Harry's hips and one ankle.
"You're going to kill me, I know it," moaned Harry, shuddering when Lucius had found an particularly sensitive spot. Those hands that kept him in place were arousing him so much that he failed to put his pleasure into words and phrases.
Lucius tortured him a while longer before he slid back up to Harry's chest and started biting and sucking on a nipple. Instantly Harry arched up again, uttering breathless little cries. Pleadingly he pressed his body against Lucius', begging him to give him more.
"Get your lube," ordered Lucius softly, pushing his tongue in Harry's ear and curling his fingers around his erection, squeezing tightly.
"A-accio lube," gasped Harry, bucking right into Lucius' hand. "God, please, stop torturing me, I beg you!"
A jar sailed into Harry's trembling, outstretched hand. He uncapped it with some difficulty and put it next to his hips, close to Lucius' torturous hand. With big, black eyes and lush lips he stared at the blonde, begging him with more than just words to finish what he'd started.
Lucius moaned when Harry pushed against him and grabbed his behind firmly. Hastily he left Harry's cock and dipped his fingers into the lube. Without waiting any longer he grasped Harry's hardness again, slicking it, before he travelled lower and rubbed over his perineum, eliciting the most grateful sounds he had ever heard. His own composure was visibly crumbling, and with almost vicious moves he pushed first one and then two fingers into Harry's body.
Harry cursed his celibacy when the penetration sent an uncomfortable burning through his lower body. Still, he wanted it more than anything. Lucius was mindful to stretch him at least a little, rubbing over his prostate purposefully. Impatiently he practically raped Harry's mouth with his tongue to pass the time he had to wait. But soon he released Harry from the forceful kiss, staring at him with such hunger that a sharp tremor passed through Harry's boiling body. He would give Lucius everything, anything at all, if he'd just spear him with his cock now, push into him as deeply as he could.
Without a word, just staring into Harry's eyes, Lucius spread Harry's legs apart to settle between them. With a few quick moves Lucius' slicked his cock. Both were breathing raggedly, fighting for air. And then, just like that, Lucius pressed down onto Harry, into Harry, taking what he desired to take and Harry desired to have taken. It only took Lucius one, hard stroke to sheathe himself completely, and to touch Harry as deeply as he'd fevered for it to happen.
A wave of fulfilment and lust racked Harry's sweaty, overeager body before Lucius had even started to set a pace. His calves wound around Lucius' hips, and his arms held onto his lover desperately. Harry saw nothing, and thought about nothing other than Lucius and the wondrous things he did to him.
Oh, he was filled so exquisitely, claimed so egoistically, aching so beautifully, straining so hungrily for release. Harry whimpered and moaned, kissing Lucius wetly, passionately, licking his already abused neck where he had left his own marks of his fiery desire. The gentle rocking soon turned into a harsher pace, making him plead and beg and moan unintelligible nonsense.
Lucius was still staring at him with his silvery, catty eyes, watching Harry lose himself in the lust he created. Harry's heart thudded wildly in his chest. He hurt, he died, he flew and he fell, rushing towards completion like a comet. With a few last, hard thrusts Lucius took the last shreds of Harry's reality away, undoing him completely and leaving him as a shattered, blissful mess.
With a desperate cry Harry exploded, clawing at Lucius' back and tearing him over the edge as well. What did it matter if he regretted it tomorrow. Right now he thought nothing, remembered nothing …
--
Harry woke in his bed, which was strange. He remembered falling asleep in front of the fire, curled around Lucius. Sleepily he groped around and found, much to his delight, vast planes of warm skin to hold on to. With a soft grunt of appreciation he cuddled closer to Lucius, pressing against him. His lover had brought him to bed – again.
"Morning," the blonde offered just as sleepily. He was just waking up but sounded instantly distracted because Harry was sucking on a spot just below his armpit, making him shiver.
Harry muttered a cleaning spell over them both, easily freshening them up, before he got on top of Lucius, rubbing his aching morning hard-on against Lucius' equally interested cock. "Morning," he crooned back, diving down to kiss Lucius fervently. He pushed against Lucius' hips with his own, shuddering with pleasure at the friction.
"Insatiable," muttered the blonde, still obviously groggy. He held on to Harry tightly nonetheless, pushing back up against him. "Going to rape me now?"
"If you want me to," said Harry hungrily. His hands were running up and down Lucius' broad, strong body. He remembered that body taking him so completely …
After the man's vague grunt of agreement he summoned his lube from the living room and got off of Lucius. With sure movements he slicked the man's straining cock, making him arch up in early-morning-helplessness. Lucius made to get up and probably throw Harry on his back for further use but Harry was quicker. He mounted Lucius like he would a horse, grasped that delicious cock tightly and lowered himself on it with a satisfied moan.
"Merlin, Harry," panted Lucius hoarsely, "give a man some warning here!" He sat up, his arms closed around Harry's waist and they met in a heated kiss.
Harry's sleepiness vanished quickly. Lucius' cock was pulsing inside of him, pressing at all the right spots. Sure, this was quick, but Harry wasn't about to let that opportunity pass. He knew now, and admitted it to himself, that he DESIRED Lucius, desired to be taken by him. And even though this seemed artless in comparison to yesterday night, it felt just as wonderful.
"Next time," groaned Harry against Lucius' lips, not sounding sorry at all. He started a slow rhythm, undulating in Lucius' lap. His neck tingled from the abuse Lucius gave it; he was sucking hard on the skin, biting the juncture between throat and shoulder and also nibbling along his collarbone.
It didn't take both long to reach orgasm. Lucius had been on edge from the start and Harry was feeling too elated to hold it off longer than he had to. With a breathless, choked moan he tensed up, arching against Lucius' hot body and into the vice-like hand around his cock. The teeth on his neck only made the sting of completion more intense. And having Lucius spend himself in him was feeling so unbelievably great; that last, sharp tug at his sanity demanded everything from him. The hard body under his bucked up like a wild animal, and Lucius uttered a matching groan before both sagged back down onto the bed contentedly.
"Evil imp," groaned Lucius, smacking Harry on his ass. "Assaulting me like that."
"This was nowhere near evil," muttered Harry with a smirk. "And you did ask if I wanted to rape you. Just took you up on your offer."
For a while they were lying in bed, just listening to each others' breathing and thinking about what had happened between them. Harry traced slow patterns on Lucius' chest, tickling his nipple teasingly. From the outside he seemed calm but his mind was really racing. He had slept with Lucius, his closest friend. He had crossed the line that he had so feared to cross.
Just like that.
But this time there was no guilt eating at him. Not because of Draco, at any rate. Only because he felt like he had used Lucius again. But right now not even that wanted to work. He felt so good, just lying in Lucius' strong arms and listening to his heartbeat.
They got up eventually, leaving Harry's bed for a shower and breakfast. Lucius went first, giving Harry some time to think things over. When he came back, fully dressed and completely awake, Harry still didn't feel regret or guilt. He smiled warmly at Lucius before he left for the shower and fresh clothes.
It was well after breakfast when Harry finally noticed the pile of presents under his tree. He hadn't expected much, only the usual Weasley presents but there was a whole mountain of them. Cautiously he stepped closer, waving his wand over them. Sure enough, most of them were from some loyal fans. How they got here was a real mystery to Harry, but at least nothing was cursed with nasty jinxes that would be very unpleasant when let loose.
The best gift, however, was just popping into the room with a loud crack, making Harry jump in fright.
"Dobby!" said Harry, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"Ooooh, Harry Potter still remembers Dobby's name!" the elf cried happily. "Old Master came and told Dobby that he would serve Harry Potter now! Dobby is so happy to serve Harry Potter, Dobby is!" He hopped up and down in visible delight, and around his large feet mismatched, ugly socks were quivering.
Harry tackled Lucius joyfully and bit him into his neck, adding yet another mark to the others that Lucius hadn't bothered to heal. "You! I should have known!"
"Just like I knew that you wouldn't go to Hogwarts anytime soon," quipped Lucius coolly. "Take that damn elf, at least he has something to do then." He smirked. "Besides, I got much more than I originally wanted for him, anyway."
Harry's cheeks burned. "Yes, well, thank you, then," he said. He sank against Lucius when he embraced him. Neither noticed that Dobby popped away, leaving them to themselves.
Dinner was grand. Dobby and Harry had finished it together, giving Lucius ample opportunity to peruse the rest of Harry's books and his photo albums. He also chose a new CD to hear and set up the chessboard for later. Sitting at the table, Harry had outdone himself to equip his guest with any kind of cutlery he could think of. This was one of the rare times that Lucius really, full-heartedly, laughed and couldn't seem to stop.
Spending so much quality time together mellowed Harry, and more than ever he thought that affection perhaps wasn't overrated after all. He even wistfully thought that falling in love with Lucius didn't seem to be hard at all. But the question remained: did he really want it? And, more importantly, did LUCIUS want it? Despite the man's willingness to tend to his needs and desires Harry wasn't sure what to think of him.
In the evening they played chess and listened to real Christmas songs for once, revelling in the gift this year had given them. Much later, after Lucius had beaten Harry again spectacularly, they sat on the couch. Or rather, Harry was sitting and had convinced his friend to lay down, with his head in his lap. When Harry had started to stroke his hair, Lucius had closed his eyes to enjoy it fully, which led to Harry tracing his face in wonderment. He stroked his elegant eyebrows like an artist would paint them, he caressed the few lines and teased the hard-looking, yet sensual mouth with his index finger.
"You are a piece of art, Lucius," sighed Harry after what seemed to be an eternity of silent assessment and contemplation. "Beautiful."
Lucius' mouth curled in a gentle smirk. "Why, thank you, Mr Potter." He opened his gleaming, enigmatic eyes and looked up at Harry. "One could almost believe you complimented me."
Harry put both hands over Lucius' penetrating gaze. "I was, you ungrateful git, you're just fishing for more." He took his hands away and smiled in heartfelt affection at him. "Not that you don't deserve it, though."
Lucius grasped the hand that was still lying on his temple and kissed it tenderly. "I don't deserve your admiration. If anything, you should be wary of me …" He kissed the hand again, licking over the sensitive palm. He was looking straight into Harry's eyes. "I might have ulterior motives."
"You always do," replied Harry in a placating manner, shuddering when Lucius only furthered his ministrations.
Lucius got up, turned around and coerced Harry to lie down as well before he snuggled up to him again, this time laying contentedly on top. "Many talents, Harry," he murmured softly. "Not only clever but also comfy."
Harry sighed again, shifting until he and Lucius were perfectly aligned. Without thinking he wound his arms around Lucius' body, hugging him even closer. The strong heartbeat against his own chest was hypnotizing him, lulling him to close his eyes and just slip into a light slumber. Lucius nuzzled his neck, and his breath tickled Harry's ear. It was so peaceful.
For a while they laid there, dozing for a bit and enjoying the closeness. The fire cracked quietly in the fireplace and warm light poured over them. For the first time in a very long time Harry felt truly at home in his flat. He felt complete, and this was the best Christmas present he could have gotten.
Pressing closer to Lucius, he revelled in the warmth of his body and its obvious strength. Unconsciously he stroked over his shoulders and head, sleepily kissing what he could reach, which happened to be Lucius' temple. Sleep was calling to him, and all he could think of amidst that insane sense of happiness was a mantra of LuciusLuciusLucius …
--
The last day wasn't spent in peaceful decadency but with actual, hard work. Lucius explained what they had against Rita Skeeter so far and helped Harry completing his complaint about her. The latest newspaper articles had been worse than expected, now that people and press had seen them together on several occasions.
For some snuggling there was still enough time left, and they made use of it. Lucius didn't demand anything at all, although the mood turned more than once from just content to erotic. Harry felt he wasn't ready for more, and Lucius respected it.
Harry had never met a man that had been more willing to tend to his moods than Lucius, although Bill had really tried to read every wish from his eyes and do everything in his might to make Harry happy. This devotion wasn't what made Harry leave, but now he knew for sure that he and Bill hadn't been a perfect couple. A happy, fun-loving couple, but not perfect. Bill was free, but he had wanted to settle down when Harry still wasn't ready for it. And he just knew that living in Egypt would have tied him down just as much as living with Draco in England would have.
Sighing, Harry closed his eyes. Draco was still a very sore spot. He never expected his former lover to cheat on him, not when he had said that he wanted to have a future together with Harry. This betrayal was almost worse than just the act of cheating in itself, and Harry hated Draco for it. He had bitched and ranted afterwards, punishing Lucius for opening his eyes. A bit late it had been, granted, but helpful all the same. His vengeful outburst had hit the wrong person.
"What are you thinking about?" Lucius queried softly. He moved his king and smirked. "Check."
"Nothing important," replied Harry, just waking from his musings. He pushed a knight in front of his king. "Now Check to yourself."
"You're improving," said Lucius easily. He moved his king away and then stared at Harry. "But you're a horrible liar."
"I plan to improve that, too," retorted Harry in a bratty, cheeky voice and grinned. His queen cornered Lucius' king. "Checkmate, my dear."
--
Leaving his comfy home and Lucius' enjoyable company for the loud Weasley clan was harder for Harry than he wanted to admit. Lucius had teased him over a last breakfast with it before he had Flooed home and left Harry to his fate.
Meeting the Weasleys was fun, though. Fred and George told Harry all about their business and handed him a Gringotts paper that listed all of Harry's winnings for the year. Angelina and Katie were hugging and kissing him when Harry told them flat out that they should put the money to good use and fund their new inventory lab with it.
He liked to help them; he had been the first who truly believed in their idea of an own shop, and he had never really handled his wealth well. As long as he could provide a decent living from his payment he was content. And despite their sky-rocketing business the twins were always grateful for his support.
Ron and Hermione almost flattened Harry with their demanding hugs before they deposited a crowing toddler into his arms. He tried to avoid the boy's chubby hands while he talked, but it wasn't easy.
"I read you're hanging out with Malfoy senior now?" Ron asked casually, sipping on his coffee. "Really, you're such a sucker for those arrogant gits."
Harry didn't even bother trying to set Ron straight in that matter. It was painfully futile, although his friend really tried to understand his choices in men. "Well, it's the dreaded Malfoy Charm, I suppose," he joked, trying to lighten the mood.
Hermione smirked. "Yes, and Lucius has a tremendous amount of it, hasn't he? He's so obviously your type, it's embarrassing."
Ron choked on his coffee. "Honestly!" he yipped.
"I just hope you know what you're getting into," continued Hermione, taking her struggling, whimpering son back. "You only broke up with Draco a few months ago. Lucius might take advantage of your …," she fished for words, "delicate state of mind. I don't hope for his sake that this is some elaborate plan to get back at you."
Harry honestly didn't believe that but once again kept his mouth shut. He wouldn't and couldn't tell them about his wonderful time with Lucius. He valued it too much to have it torn apart by his angry and worried friends. So he just nodded and smiled, saying, "I'll be careful, 'Mione. I promise."
After receiving this lecture Molly Weasley dragged him away to the others, completely taking up his whole attention by prattling on about the latest news in the Weasley household. Mr Weasley briefed Harry on the Rita Skeeter case and what Hermione had been doing for the Ministry already.
Charlie and a very disgruntled Snape were the next to meet. Harry told his former Professor in clear terms that he considered that marriage-issue done and over with, and that he shouldn't mess with his life anymore. Other than that they had a surprisingly pleasant chat about Charlie's new dragon breed and Snape's developments for dragon treatment.
Even Bill was there, squeezing Harry to his hard, lean chest and holding him tight with his long arms.
"Missed you," he said into Harry's messy hair. "Merlin, you're getting more handsome each time I see you. I wish you'd give me a second chance."
Harry sighed sadly. "I can't," he admitted.
"I hope it's not Lucius Malfoy," growled Bill. "He's no good, believe me." He pushed Harry away, at arms length, and frowned. "The articles in the papers are bad enough. Don't tell me it's true."
"There's nothing," said Harry in relief. He hated it to see Bill so upset. "Not really, anyhow."
"That's already too much, knowing you," replied Bill, sounding oddly defeated. "You slept with him, didn't you?"
"It was hard not to," said Harry meekly. "I was lonely, and he was there and willing to help out, and it was good." He took a deep breath and then plunged forward. "Listen, I know you all don't like it, and sometimes I don't understand myself, but he's good for me. He's done nothing to make me regret a single thing. I can look out for myself. After Draco I know what to do."
"I fear to lose you to yet another Malfoy," said Bill vehemently. "I don't want to see you hurt again. Please be careful, and don't let him in too close before you're absolutely sure."
Harry choked. When others put his rampant thoughts into such clear words it came like a shock. As if it was thoroughly possible that he and Lucius started a relationship with each other. Could that really be? Did he want it? Was he ready for it?
"I will," he promised for a lack of anything else to say.
Bill occupied him for a bit longer, then Harry went over to Ginny and Dean, catching up with them. Both had a lot of questions, most concerning his wedding and what he was doing with Lucius lately. Well, Harry didn't tell them what he was DOING with him, but he recounted how Lucius had offered his help against Rita Skeeter and how they had developed a close friendship. He was careful to phrase his tale innocuously; it was bad enough that he had admitted it once today. Bill knew him too well. And Ron and Hermione were probably suspecting the same thing.
He was tired when he finally managed to pry himself from them. It was late and he only wanted to sleep. The Floo spat him out after another hair-rising trip and Harry hurried to slip into bed before he could get really sick. Unfortunately he had drunk way too much to Apparate safely, much to his chagrin.
After a quick cleaning charm Harry slipped into his pyjamas and snuggled under the covers of his big bed. He wanted to bang his swooning head when all he could think of was that someone was missing.
--
December 31st, New Year's Eve …
--
New Year approached steadily, and Harry found himself cleaning his flat once more from top to bottom alongside Dobby. He sorted everything old and useless out and threw it away. It felt good to leave a part of his old life behind. It had been long since overdue and now he relished in it.
Dobby was also a bigger help than Harry had imagined. He made breakfast, sorted his mail, informed him of firecalls that had come during his absence and restocked his kitchen with everything he needed. Somehow Dobby also knew not to interfere with Harry's desire to cook. He helped him prepare the ingredients and sauces but left it to Harry to actually do the cooking. If anything the house elf was admiring his new master even more for his skills.
Harry had arranged to meet Ron and Hermione at the Weasley's for the party but somehow he didn't feel up to their company. It would be so loud and hectic, everybody would inquire how he was and ask him about Lucius and the articles in the papers.
Nervously he paced through his freshly cleaned apartment and wondered if he could just call it off. The correspondence with Lucius was rather dissatisfying, now that he had practically lived with the man for a few days. He still missed his presence. The flat seemed so empty without someone else in it.
After agonising some more he made up his mind. He went to the fireplace in his corridor and called Ron via Floo. To his embarrassment both Ron and Hermione squeezed in to talk to him, so now he had two disembodied heads taking him down a notch or two. In the end, however, they forgave him his cowardly last-minute backtrack and demanded to see him no later than on January 3rd for breakfast, his treat. Harry agreed, relieved that he had gotten off the hook so easily.
Now that this was done he felt oddly aimless. He had wanted to get out of this party, true, but New Year without any kind of celebration seemed wrong as well. And he already knew who he would bother. It seemed that everything came back to it.
"Malfoy Manor, Lucius Malfoy's study," he called into his fireplace, biting his lip nervously. Ants were crawling through his stomach, and he itched to bolt and hide in a dark corner.
Before he could do that, however, Lucius himself answered the call. He looked a bit weary. "Good evening, Harry, what can I do for you?"
Harry fought back his insecurities and smiled. "Hi. I wanted to ask if you're interested in a small trip?"
"Now? Shouldn't you be at some party?" Lucius replied. Harry wanted to hug him and chase that damned weariness away that resounded clearly in Lucius' voice.
"Called it all off," said Harry truthfully. "I didn't want to be bothered with more questions about … well, you know what. So, are you coming? It'll be fun."
Smirking, Lucius cocked an eyebrow. "I feel very privileged right now, Harry. Although it just might be a trap to finally get rid of me, I'll come with you." He looked strangely at Harry before he admitted, "It's not as if I had something else planned, anyway."
Harry chose to ignore his friend's slight bitterness and smiled brightly. "Wonderful. Meet me in Diagon Alley in an hour." He would make it good for Lucius. He deserved it.
An hour was short but Harry managed to hop into the shower, pick a delicious outfit, consisting of tight-fitting blue jeans in a used look, a black shirt with dark green MATRIX patterns and a dark brown leather jacket. He decided to wear leather boots instead of trainers, and with a few, quick strokes and a bit of hair gel he tamed his hair into his favoured out-of-bed style. After one last look into his mirror (the non-talking kind) he grabbed his wand, his wallet and his coat and left his flat.
Lucius was already there when Harry arrived five minutes early. And he looked gorgeous in his Muggle attire. How he had known to wear something Muggle was beyond Harry, but maybe Lucius had only guessed rightly that Harry wouldn't want to spend New Year in the wizarding world anyway. At any rate, his loose blond hair was moving gently in the cold breeze, and his black coat looked as if it cost a year's salary of a lower Ministry employee.
The streets were crowded, so Harry decided to Apparate first and greet his friend later. The less attention they got the better. A bit rudely Harry pushed through the masses that also wanted to Apparate away, for once using his fame to his advantage. No one questioned him, and when Harry Apparated himself and Lucius away, many shocked looks were following them.
The Center Square, New York, was crammed with people. Masses over masses were squeezing through the wide street, cheering and yelling. Horns were howling and fireworks were going off every other second above their heads, lighting the black, starlit night sky in every colour imaginable. Sparkling wine and beer was passed around all over them, and a bottle made its way into Lucius' hand before they had even exchanged a word with each other.
Harry immediately grabbed Lucius' arm so he wouldn't lose him in the crowd. Then they looked at each other, and only one moment later Harry was swept up in a tight embrace.
"That's grand," said Lucius over the noise. He was obviously stunned at how big the party was. "Thanks for taking me with you."
"Don't mention it," replied Harry, glowing with pride. "Just enjoy, because I plan to greet the new year properly."
"Properly, hm?" said Lucius, smirking lecherously. "I wouldn't object to some PROPER party afterwards …"
Harry laughed and struggled out of Lucius' promising embrace. "Come, let's party, then!" he said enthusiastically and dragged the man with him.
They went with the flow, following the slowly meandering crowd until they somehow squeezed into the masses on the Center Square. More bottles were passed to them and they accepted the offer, although not before Lucius had cleaned them from any traces of their predecessors.
To Harry's big surprise he met some of his friends he had made during his time here and engaged in a heated conversation. Heath had a new girlfriend and was snogging her thoroughly as soon as Harry started talking. Yet he managed to listen and asked unabashedly about Lucius. His eyes twinkled when Lucius put a possessive arm around Harry's waist and rubbed his cheek in the wild, dark hair. They all laughed and Harry knew that Lucius had a great time, even though they were among Muggles. The music was loud and cheerful, and the crowing of the people got louder by the minute.
When midnight approached both were pleasantly drunk and ready to greet the new year. Heath and Candy, his girlfriend, swayed next to Harry and Lucius, counting the time until midnight with sloppy kisses. And Harry was far too drunk and far too comfortable to thwart Lucius' advances any longer. Hot kisses on his neck made him swoony, and the big clock and the loud voice out of the speaker furthered his anticipation. He had the tingling feeling that the new year would be great.
Harry counted cheerfully from ten backwards, together with Candy. Both their men were very busy devouring their necks by then, but it didn't matter because this was the best New Year's Eve Harry had ever had. It was loud, it was crammed, they were drunk and they were happy. What more could he want?
When the big clock stroked midnight with booming, demanding sounds, cheers broke forth from everywhere. A huge firework went off over their heads, turning the night to day for minutes on end. Every face changed colours rapidly, blue, green, red, orange, violet, yellow. Music sounded again, and people began to snog and dance and drink, all at once.
"Happy New Year!" cried Candy over the commotion, and then she was engulfed in a possessive hug and kissed passionately.
Harry returned her greetings; he couldn't fall quickly enough into Lucius' arms and give in to the snog of his life. A nameless heat spread through him that had nothing and everything to do with lust and an affection that was too wonderful to put into words. Lucius' arms around him warmed him against the coldness, and his kisses made him feel incredibly happy.
After minutes and literally snogging off the heat of the moment, Heath invited Harry and Lucius to a party. As it was, Heath was a young entrepreneur and very successful with his business. The party took place in the top tower of the Center Square, and was an absolutely exclusive young-and-rich-party. They accepted the invitation and rode up to the top floor. They all shed their coats and quickly mingled with the other guests. With his coat, Lucius also left his royal, uptight demeanour behind.
And he could dance! Harry, who had always been much better at dancing to his kind of music, Muggle music without formal dancing rules, enjoyed it immensely to dance with Lucius. They swayed to exotic beats and felt each other up shamelessly, kissing hungrily and ignoring everything else around.
They celebrated the start of the new year until the wee hours of the next morning. Harry's neck was covered in new, vivid hickeys, and Lucius' shirt had seen better days with all its buttons either ripped off or hanging precariously on some last threads. His chest too had a lot of new, dark marks on it.
Minding their surroundings, they bade their admittedly drunk goodbye to Heath who didn't seem to notice them anyway, and then, after hiding in a dark corner, Lucius activated a Manor Portkey and transported himself and Harry safely home to Malfoy Manor.
It was a short way to bed.
--
One month and three days later …
--
Harry had just seen Lucius off from their private Imbolc feast and was now slumping against his door, grinning stupidly. Since the feast was supposed to take care of one's home and hearth, Harry had invited Lucius over, suggesting a quiet house-warming and an equally quiet honouring of Brigid, the goddess that protected witches and wizards on this holiday.
Well, the feast hadn't been quiet at all, but Harry didn't mind. His body still tingled where Lucius had kissed and nipped at it, and his backside was deliciously tender. They certainly had honoured Harry's home, just not in the traditional sense.
Their dates had become a frequent and welcome instalment in Harry's life. He got to see many interesting sights in different cities and Lucius encouraged him to read a lot, poems, novels and books about nature and sciences. He was, of course, especially interested in criminology and crime scene investigation, and the Muggles had a lot of books about that.
Asking Lucius out had lost the scare factor as well. For Harry it was now only natural to pen a quick note or make a call, because Lucius would always try to make time for him. Usually their plans worked out, and if not Harry could be sure that Lucius really regretted it. He knew that HE certainly regretted it himself if he had to put his friend off.
Despite going out with each other, they never really talked about it. They landed in bed far less than Harry had expected, now that he had lost his shyness. But it was good like this. They enjoyed it when the opportunity arose, and he enjoyed the mostly romantic settings even more. It made him feel cherished, rather than just egoistic and needy, because this way he believed that Lucius was truly enjoying himself as well, something that was becoming more and more important to him.
Stupidity really had never felt better.
--
Another two months later …
--
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, March 30th 2006
Dear Lucius,
I heard that 'Mione finally found hard evidence against Rita Skeeter. I'm so happy right now, I could step-dance naked on the table and sing "Halleluja". The Wizengamot is already informed, of course, and the process is starting next week. I hope the whole madness will be over and done with then. If not, well, SHE won't be able to drag both our names through the mud any longer. Who would have thought that even hundred Gallons per letter aren't putting off our admiring fans? As if you need any more money.
On another note: Easter is approaching. Do you have any plans or can I impose on your free time yet again and bother you until you shut me up? How does Malta sound to you? I heard they have wonderful orchards that bloom beautifully in spring.
Yours,
Harry
--
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, March 31st 2006
Dear Harry,
Malta sounds wonderful. When are we leaving?
Yes, I heard about the process. What a lawyer would I be if I didn't? I plan on squeezing every single Knut out of that woman, and I will succeed. You will be required to show up once or twice, express your discontent about her actions and sway the jury in your favour. The Wizengamot, unlike the Ministry, does have the ability to think and act accordingly, and we shall make use of that unexpected yet highly appreciated show of common sense. Hermione's effort in that case is also highly appreciated, I can assure you.
Dancing naked sounds promising, although I must decline your offer to shut you up. I very much prefer you vocal, my dear, sweet Harry. But I might be affable to the compromise of distracting you of your respective current task or question with my hands, if you'd like.
Yours,
Lucius
--
--
Toucan from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, April 1st 2006
Dear Lucius,
We're leaving on Monday 10th if that's all right with your schedule. We would stay until the 17th. Did you know that my godfather owned a house there? I went through his things and found the documents. I already sent Dobby to clean the place up, and he says that it's wonderful. I fear he's a bit bored with just my flat, so it's lucky I found it.
I'm very glad you don't want to shut me up. Your idea of distracting sounds good, so I think I'll accept your offer.
Ha, and I KNEW that calling 'Mione Mrs Granger-Weasley would tire you eventually, although it took you longer than I gave you credit for. Besides, I think she's going to get rid of that stupid hyphenation. Who needs it anyway? She told me that emancipation is great and all, but practicality should put a stop to such things. I'm glad she thinks so because it's bloody annoying to address her letters like this just because their owl is a pedant. And just think her son Jerry Granger-Weasley would marry a Gwendolyn Rosebud-Hawsthorne and each insisted on keeping their names? Well, let's not go there.
Can we 'distract' each other again soon?
Yours,
Harry
--
--
Toucan from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, April 1st 2006
Dearest Harry,
How good for me that you don't do April fool's stuff to me, otherwise I would have hexed your bloody toucan by now. The stupid thing actually HID in the manor until I summoned it! Not even the house elves could get it out of its bloody hiding place! That menace will be the death of me yet if you don't manage to kill me first somehow.
The date is acceptable, although we do have a date with Rita and the Wizengamot the day before we leave and also after we return. Other than that there should be no problems. I just hope that they don't manage to ruin whatever relaxation we manage to get. And, my lovely Harry, 'distracting' doesn't come even close to describe what I'd like to do to you.
Yours,
Lucius
--
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, April 2nd 2006
Dearest Lucius,
Paja is lonely, and he's a bit miffed because we don't really trust him with our mail. I know he's conspicious and a tease, but can you try to accept him? Do it for me if you don't want to do it for his poor ego. Ouch, the bloody beast just bit me! Forget everything that I-
I hexed the bloody thing, I've had enough. I threatened him to give him to Snape for testing purposes and now he behaves quite amiably. Stupid, straw-headed bird. I'll bring it back to Brasilia where it should have stayed all along. I'll probably wonder forever how your owl could convince him to get your letter to me. Do I even want to know?
Gods, Lucius, you're evil. How will I know that you're not promising such enticing things to any young man that happens to cross your path? I'll admit to a certain jealousy at that thought, although I think I might be the best young man you could have happened upon.
Anyhow, I'm anticipating our holiday. You'll see, Sirius' place is the cutest house with the most beautiful garden, right next to some grand orchards. There'll also be a huge event and fireworks in the village nearby. I can't wait to see it, and I'm glad you're coming with me.
Yours,
Harry
--
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, April 3rd 2006
Dear Harry,
Yes, I quite agree to your claim to be the finest young man I could have happened upon. In fact, since I can't think of anyone else to date and, quite frankly, don't want to, I want to proposition the possibility of an exclusive relationship to you. I know it's soon, maybe too soon for you, but I've come to enjoy our time together very much, so it'd be delightful if you'd at least think about it.
Sirius is still a sore spot for you, isn't he? I'm sorry that he didn't make it through the war, if only for your sake. Out of Narcissa's demented family he was the only one with an honest bone in his body. It's regrettable and a shame that he should manage to cut all ties with his family and I couldn't until it almost was too late. I respect him for that, and I'm honoured that you're inviting me to his house. I'd like to know more about him, now that I have the chance.
Yours truly,
Lucius
--
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, April 7th 2006
Dear Lucius,
Sorry for the delay. I got a Howler from Draco, of all people and things, and I was pretty shaken for a few days. What he said was just so … how dare he accusing ME of cheating on him with you when he was doing it behind my back all along. Well, it's over and done with now, I don't want to think about it any longer.
I'm glad that you want to get to know your family better, even if it's post mortem. We both don't have much of a family left, now do we? Dobby told me that he found old journals and photo albums. We can look them through if you really want.
Yours,
Harry
P.S.: I can't answer your question just yet. I'm sorry.
--
--
Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Harry Potter, April 7th 2006
Dear Harry,
I understand. Draco sent me a Howler as well, so I can imagine what he had to say to our acquaintance. I'm not amused. In fact, I'd have the little harlot sued as well if I knew it would beat some common sense into him. How dare he, and if he keeps this inane complaining up I'll disown him. Don't be sad about it though, it's not worth your time.
What do you think about breakfast at the Manor? I'd like to discuss our holidays and what we could do there.
Yours,
Lucius
--
--
Owl from Harry Potter to Lucius Malfoy, April 7th 2006
Dear Lucius,
I need a break from it all, that Howler really had me depressed. I managed to preserve it, in case I should mellow and allow Draco to get close again. Last year, after the wedding, I already thought I hated him, but it is nothing in comparison to what I feel now. I hope he's happy with Blaise and stays in Greece forever, because I'll hex him if he ever comes near me again.
Damn, Lucius, I treat you so badly because of it, even though I know I shouldn't, and I feel absolutely rotten. I wish I could start clean and just forget about that disaster. I should have known that it was a mistake from the start. But at least I got to know you, that's a lot as compensation.
Breakfast is fine, I need to talk to you in person soon anyway, otherwise I'll go crazy. When should I show up?
Yours,
Harry
--
Two hours later Harry got Lucius' affirmation to meet him around ten at the Manor. It was past midnight by then but Harry wasn't tired. He felt restless and angry and burnt out and really needed Lucius' comforting embrace and his strong shoulder to lean on.
Hedwig cooed quietly from her perch on his wardrobe. It was conspiciously empty of Paja; he had flown away the day before, screeching insults at Harry. Merlot the owl was snoozing peacefully in the chandelier, for once not prancing around Hedwig.
Putting Lucius' latest note on top of all the others he had collected, Harry called it a night and prepared for bed. Draco's Howler was stashed away in a file where he didn't see it, and yet it glared at Harry, rattling his thoughts.
--
April 8th, breakfast at Malfoy Manor …
--
Harry Apparated punctually to the Manor. He couldn't wait to see Lucius again while at the same time he was rather nervous without really knowing why. Since Lucius had keyed his magical signature to the wards a few months ago Harry could pop in and out as he wished. To him it meant the world because Lucius was a very private man. It showed him how much the man trusted him, and also how much he enjoyed Harry's company.
Breakfast was set up in the patio. It was still cool outside, and a bit mist floated over grass and small crocuses. Warming charms all over the place made the place comfortable, and the first sunrays of spring caressed hair and skin and shiny furniture and delicate crockery. Lucius rose from his seat and put his paper away to greet Harry with a hug and a kiss, something that had come naturally just weeks ago.
Harry melted into the embrace and sighed, deeply inhaling Lucius' scent. How he wished that it could always be like that, so calm and wonderful, but despite Hermione's efforts and the Wizengamot's work to drag Rita Skeeter to court she still managed to spew her articles all over England. Gradually the hysteria was coolling down but it only was a small consolation. Adding to that, Harry now had so much money that he didn't know what to do with it. Gringott's was handling it but Lucius had already offered to manage it in the future with better benefits on Harry's behalf.
"You look dreadful, Harry," said Lucius with a gentle smirk. He led Harry to the table and pulled the chair out for him. "I had Twinny brewing your coffee." He sat opposite of Harry and handed him the paper. "For once there are only two smaller articles about us, and they're not even that bad. I think they finally gave us up."
"I hope so," muttered Harry tiredly. He rubbed his face with both hands before he looked into the depths of his coffee cup. "It's too late for me, though. I quit my job a few days ago."
Lucius frowned. "You loved this job, why ever would you do that?"
"Mr Pipe lost his clients because of me, so I quit before he was ruined. He'd rather lose his business than firing me, so I decided for him. He's old and he needs the money, I couldn't allow for that to happen. He's too nice for his own good."
Both were silent for a moment. Then Lucius offered Harry the roll basket. "Well, maybe you can start again when it has calmed down a bit more."
"It's nice of you to try to cheer me up," replied Harry with a small smile, "but I don't think that I'll ever find work in Englad again. Everybody knows me and that I busted my wedding to get it on with the father of my supposed spouse." He sighed heavily. "No, it's impossible." His heart did a funny leap in his chest when he phrased it like this, because that wasn't what he thought about his confusing relationship with Lucius at all.
"You don't sound that put out about it," Lucius stated, buttering his roll with quick, efficient strokes of his knife. "Do you have plans already?"
Harry shrugged and broke his own roll in two halves. "I didn't plan on staying anyway. I'll go somewhere else and find a new job. I learned a lot from Mr Pipe and the books. Maybe I'll take up a study in America, or in China or wherever I feel like it."
Lucius remained uncharacteristically silent, making Harry wonder if he had hurt him with his plans. They spent breakfast in silence, just enjoying the spring sun, the twittering of the birds and the fresh, clean air.
"Let's go for a walk," said Harry when they were done. "Your whole garden blooms."
Lucius ordered a house elf to get their cloaks, and then they meandered through the extensive gardens, admiring the young buds and blossoms. Harry linked their hands, revelling in the feel of Lucius' strong fingers around his. He could feel each tenon and every muscle working tenderly under the soft, firm skin. Even Lucius' hands had character, he thought, smiling.
They didn't talk much that day at all. Harry didn't know what else to say, in fear to say something wrong. Instead, he tried to show Lucius his appreciation with small gestures, like a brush of his thumb over the back of his hand, or a soft kiss beneath a cherry tree that was just starting to bloom.
In the evening Lucius kept Harry from Apparating away with putting his hands around his waist. He gently kissed Harry's temple and then looked him deeply into the eyes.
"When shall I meet you on Monday?" he asked quietly.
"Come around ten, so we'll have time to settle in and then we have the day to explore the village," replied Harry just as quietly. "I hope our date at the Ministry won't be that bad."
"Yes, it's impudent enough to have this meeting on a Sunday at all," Lucius sneered. "But don't worry, we'll give them their tongue-lashing and then I'll take you out for lunch."
"Great," said Harry, smiling brightly. He kissed Lucius affectionately and then Apparated home, right out of the warm embrace.
--
The Sunday was a day to behold and remember fondly for future years: not only did the Wizengamot got a complaint from one very pissed Harry Potter that had every member of the jury and the onlookers muttering angrily on his behalf, but there was also an equally pissed off Hermione Granger-Weasley listing her evidence against Rita Skeeter which had several owners of papers blanching in fear and guilt.
But the topping on the already delicious cake was the great entrance of Colin and Dennis Creevey, who strutted in the room as if they owned the place and presented Rita Skeeter herself to Madam Bones.
Captured in a glass in her Animagus form and buzzing very unhappily against the walls of her small prison.
It solved a lot of their problems at once.
Madam Bones ordered to have her taken in immediately and also set a date for a hearing under Veritaserum. Harry and Hermione were elated with happiness, and even Lucius seemed genuinely relieved that the elusive reporter was finally found. Of course the Creevey brothers had every right to ask for a favour now, although Harry knew that they had helped him from the good of their heart. Right now he had no reservations whatsoever to promise them a nice, long interview and a photo-session as a show of gratitude though.
"This is as good as over," rasped Lucius as soon as they were out of the law court of the Ministry, pressing Harry against a wall of an unused corridor not very far away from it. "They'll question her and find everything out and then we can live in peace and quiet." He held Harry's head by his dark locks and kissed him roughly.
Moaning, Harry arched against Lucius. "Oh Gods, I hope so." He felt Lucius' tongue fight his own and wished for nothing more than a bed they could lie on, because the floor here was dusty. If Lucius kept this kissing up, however, even the dirty floor wouldn't deter him much longer. "Mmh, oh, no, stop, somebody could see us," he gasped after minutes of heated snogging. He tried to push Lucius away by his shoulders, to no avail.
"I like it when you try to resist me," replied Lucius in a hoarse, dark voice. "It only makes me want to ravish you sooner." He pressed Harry's body not too gently against the wall and felt him up greedily. His hips rubbed against Harry's and provoked a string of muffled curses and pleas.
"Lucius!" Harry choked when the man bit along his neck, renewing the faded dark marks under his collar. They were just out of sight so nobody would see them, but Harry felt them burn every time Lucius just looked at him.
"You'd better not planned anything PRESSING for our holiday," whispered Lucius darkly, making Harry shiver with arousal. He pushed his thigh between Harry's, now an old and often used trick to turn him into putty, and pressed even further against him.
Harry just moaned and threw his resistance and caution overboard, letting Lucius do whatever he wanted to do with him. Very soon the kissing pair had found a rhythm and rubbed heatedly against each other. Only that delicious friction of Lucius' magnificient body and their clothes and Lucius' talented hands were enough to make Harry come harder than he had with some of his boyfriends. Lucius was simply overwhelming him.
They left the corridor a few minutes later, having cleaned their robes and rightened their appearances with quick flicks of their wands. Elated as he was, Harry blithely ignored the stares he received from several Ministry workers. Lucius did not but didn't bother to point their rude staring out to Harry.
When they had almost reached the exit of the entrance hall with the ghastly fountain, a man said non-too-quietly, "Hey, boy toy" to Harry and then smirked when Harry looked at him sharply. Hiding behind a paper that had a huge article about Harry and Lucius with matching headline didn't help him any, especially because Lucius looked ready to kill.
"Care to repeat that, Gordon?" he drawled icily, advancing towards the blond nephew of Fudge. He lowered the paper with his cane and glared hatefully at the owner.
Nigel Gordon lowered his paper completely and sneered maliciously at Lucius. "Certainly. What a catch, Malfoy, you and Mr Potter. Who would have thought he would seek comfort in your arms?" His sneer turned ugly. "You of all people, what a hoot." Several others, who had listened in, muttered in agreement. Gordon looked Harry up and down before he stared him haughtily in the eyes. "The Boy Who Lived To Be Lucius Malfoy's Boy Toy, what a pleasure to meet you again." His leer was disturbing.
Lucius' face was so calm that Harry could practically see the seething rage behind the façade. He touched his arm gently.
"It's not worth it. Let the idiot be, he comes after Fudge after all." With some difficulty he steered Lucius away from the staring crowd and out of the Ministry. Whispered insults followed them, but Harry chose to ignore them before he himself hexed them seven ways to Sunday and from there to hell.
Harry Apparated them away, to the front gates of Malfoy Manor. Only then did Lucius seem to get out of his raging fit.
"Why didn't you let me stuff his big mouth with his tasteless tie?" he asked. "Or kill him on the spot, the insipid little bugger."
"He's not worth another sentence in Azkaban," replied Harry and sighed. "Besides, he's right. It's what I am, isn't it?" With that he stood on his toes and pecked Lucius on the grim mouth. "See you tomorrow at ten."
He left before Lucius could say something about it. He had their holidays to look forward to, and then they had lots of time to talk about these things.
--
Getting to Malta and settling in their little cottage took very little time, given that Dobby was very eager to help his masters settling in. There were already drinks waiting for them, and delicious scents promised a wonderful lunch. They both took their time exploring the house, then they had lunch and just enjoyed the great weather from under their sunshade. Harry also hadn't promised too much when he had told Lucius about the orchards. Everything around the cottage had just started to bloom, and it smelled wonderfully like spring.
Later they made their way down to the village, did some shopping and just admired the old, white houses. Harry had brought a camera and insisted on taking pictures of the houses, the flowers and Lucius. Soon Lucius took the camera and shot snaps of Harry in return, capturing him eating ice cream, sniffing on some blossoms and dancing on the beach, just touching the cool shore with his bare feet.
At night they snuggled on a rattan canapee on their open veranda and watched the stars. Lucius held Harry tightly against him and caressed his hair with slow, languid strokes.
The days passed by, one by one, and each seemed like an own world to Harry. They would go out on the sea on a fisher boat, or wandering around the island. The next day they would visit all the old castles and manors the island had to offer. In the evenings they would both go through Sirius' photo albums and journals and discover what kind of man he had been. Even Harry hadn't really known him, despite the time they had had together.
"I wish he could have been around longer," he said sadly, looking at a picture of a much younger, happier Sirius.
Lucius put the journal down he had been perusing. "I never thought I would ever say this, but I feel guilty for what happened in the Ministry that night."
His voice seemed cool, but Harry knew him better. It warmed him that Lucius really meant what he said, even though it made no difference now. Not where Sirius was concerned.
"We were who we were at the time," he replied honestly. "I'm rather grateful that you didn't kill me and my friends on the spot then. Besides, you didn't kill him." Harry sighed deeply. "Let's not talk about it, I don't think Sirius ever wanted someone to be so miserable over him."
"I'm still feeling guilty," said Lucius softly. "You're miserable because of me as well, and I'm not dead yet." He put the journal down and leaned a bit closer. "What Gordon said about you is an infamy without comparison."
"You mean that boy-toy thing?" Harry asked. A smile quirked around his mouth. "Well, I do sleep with you, so the term is rather fitting, don't you think? Besides, they can just go get bend for all I care." He raised his chin stubbornly. "It's my life."
"Harry, my question still stands. I want to make our friendship exclusive. I don't particularly care to share you, and I want to be able to defend you when I have to."
He looked so vulnerable right now, Harry thought, touched by Lucius' sincerity. And if he was honest, his stalling for time had changed nothing. Draco's Howler had rattled him, but that was all water under the bridge now. He wanted to be with Lucius, and that was that.
"I'd like that," said Harry softly, smiling. "I'm so sorry that I couldn't say that sooner. I had to be sure that I want it." He leaned forward and brushed Lucius' lips with his own. "I'm sorry for troubling you so much."
Lucius embraced him, just holding Harry close. "From now one you're mine," he said. "And I'll take care of you properly."
"When don't you?" Harry teased back, kissing Lucius affectionately on the neck. "You're spoiling me rotten, Mr Malfoy."
"Finally I'm doing something right," said Lucius before he kissed Harry on the mouth.
--
The holidays were over much too soon. Harry was back in his apartment, sorting his correspondence and his paperwork. He wasn't particularly fond of it but did it all the same so he wouldn't die of boredom. Being without work wasn't funny; he needed to do something to be happy and content.
At least the sentence against Rita Skeeter had been most satisfactory. As Lucius had predicted she got what she deserved, which were several years in Azkaban, a lifelong ban of her Quick Quote Quill and a penalty of fifty-thousand Galeons of which every little Knut wandered straight into Harry's vault.
"I can't believe they gave me all that money!" said Harry in agitation.
They had left the Ministry, initially in high spirits about Rita's sentence, but now the money made Harry irritable. Lucius, who was walking next to him, only chuckled about his indignation.
"You better believe it. If you'd like I could manage it for you. I have excellent connections to highly profitable shops and companies all over the world, and all of them would love to be funded by the famous Harry Potter." He leaned slightly over to Harry and lowered his voice, "And you could come with me when I start travelling to renew my acquaintance with them."
Harry pursed his lips and thought about that offer. "It's not as if I had anything better to do," he admitted. "But someday I want to work as investigator again. I'll have to study criminology and other subjects."
Lucius smirked. "As long as I get to see you often enough I won't stand in your way, my dear." He grabbed Harry's hand and Apparated them both back to Malfoy Manor.
"Were we just making plans?" Harry asked, genuinely puzzled. "Oh god, we did." He looked anxiously at Lucius and fidgeted. "I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet." Unnoticed, a house elf took his cloak and vanished again.
Lucius raised an eyebrow, but his look was full of understanding. "Sometimes you think too much. Severus always overrates thinking, and see where that landed him: he's committed to a touchy-feely Weasley who's only thinking as much as he has to. Even he needs a break from all the thinking he does." He gently steered Harry into one of the countless living rooms and offered him a seat on the couch before he sat down himself, next to Harry.
Taking a deep breath, Harry tried to calm down. "I just can't help but asking myself if you're happy with me," he confessed meekly. "I just broke up with your son-"
"Eight months ago," Lucius threw in helpfully.
"- and it really seems wrong to feel so good with you. Shouldn't I be more … well, angry? Or perhaps sad because you remind me of Draco? Shouldn't I be unable to have a new relationship so soon?" Harry sighed angrily. "I don't even know what I'm trying to say!"
"If you have to remind yourself to still be depressed …," said Lucius, trailing off without completing his thought. "I am happy with you, and I was under the impression that you are quite happy with me as well." He smirked. "I could make you miserable, of course, but what would we achieve with it?"
"I'm just being stupid," huffed Harry and crossed his arms.
"You just try to fulfil people's expectations when you don't have to," corrected Lucius gently. "It's your life, you said so yourself. If you want what we have, why shouldn't you have it then? Only two persons could put a stop to it, and that's us." He encircled Harry with his arms and kissed him on the forehead. "You don't have to be perfect for everyone. It's enough that you're perfect for me."
Harry shivered. This sounded like a declaration of love, and gods, his heart hoped it was, because he really felt for Lucius. Being with Lucius had nothing of the strains it had had with Draco. Everything just happened and they had to put very little effort into their relationship. He swallowed around the lump in his throat and cuddled against Lucius' broad chest.
"Of course I'm happy with you, how could I not with the way you're treating me," he said, burying his burning face in Lucius' shirt. "And I do want to be with you, my stupid insecurities notwithstanding. I'll get over it."
As usual he missed Lucius' smug smile.
--
April 31st, Beltane …
--
"This is my first official Beltane!" said Harry excitedly. "Thanks for taking me."
"It's about time you celebrated it, then," said Lucius. "Come, here's our hotel. Let's get ready."
Harry followed him, awed by the beauty he saw. The hotel Lucius had taken him to was a wonderful mansion with big windows in the heavy stone walls. The whole façade was adorned with oak branches, colourful ribbons and other plants that were wrought to wreathes. It was dark already, around nine in the evening, and the lamps and spotlights made a true fairytale castle of the manor.
Now that they were officially a couple they took only one room, of course. The whole hotel was decorated for Beltane as well. Lucius had told Harry that this was one of the most famous houses in the world. It was said to only appear on certain holidays, such as Beltane and Samhain, or Halloween, as it was called more commonly.
Harry saw very little of their suite. Lucius handed him simple black trousers that were cut off at the knees and a thick, black cloak and then ushered him into the shower. Harry showered and changed, feeling strange in this clothing. It seemed to be too little for the cold nights out there. He shook these thoughts away and joined his lover in the living room.
Feeling extraordinarily naked, Harry saw the desire in Lucius' eyes, and also his control.
Not yet, his body seemed to purr. Not yet but very soon.
His lover – that word alone let shivers of pride, arousal and even love dance over his heated skin.
The living room was very dark and only lit by the fireplace and two dozens of candles. The walls were covered with wooden panels, and over most of them shawls were draped artfully. Bundles of raw grain, a basket with apples, pigtails of garlic and other such things hung from the few empty places of the wall, and in the middle of the dark, comfortable, seductive room stood a roughly built, wooden table. It was laden with the most delicious food Harry had ever seen. Rost beef, fried quails, apple tart, apple cider, Butterbeer, mashed potatoes, juicy saucages, bread, onion quiche, green salads, cheese and breads of all kinds and lots of other things invited him to eat and drink his fill.
Wordlessly, Lucius led him to the table and motioned for Harry to sit down on the rug in front of the fire. The table trembled and then lowered down until they could eat from it without problems. Lucius started to feed Harry grapes, cold cuts, the crisp, salty skin of the quails and other things, and then Harry returned the favour. He admired Lucius shamelessly. He looked so otherwordly in that light, painted in darkness and gold.
He really didn't know how it had happened, but after a while they shared each bite, kissing deeply over the apple cider and the pumpkin soup. Their eyes looked nowhere else than the other's eyes, and casual touches of their fingers against lips and cheeks heightened their sense of feeling tenfold.
Still Lucius did nothing to really touch Harry, something that drove him crazy. They finished their meal and the table cleared, leaving only two bowls with a strange, dark substance in them.
"Now let's begin," murmured Lucius, reaching for one bowl. "Just do what I do, all right?"
Harry nodded and watched as Lucius dipped his right index finger into the substance. It came out black on the tip and Harry suddenly knew what it was: body paint. Carefully, Lucius painted the skin around Harry's eyes black, so that the startling green colour shone out even more than usual.
When he was finished Harry did the same to Lucius, admiring the face of his lover and friend yet again. How or why someone so educated and handsome would want to be with him was beyond his comprehension but he found he didn't care anymore. He wanted Lucius, and he felt great that Lucius wanted him in return.
Teasingly, Harry smeared the rest of the colour on this hands and made dark prints right on Lucius' chest, on his impressive muscles. Lucius retaliated, painting black stripes on Harry's arms and printing his own hand onto his belly.
At last the blonde put the bowls away and reached for something else. Harry felt a shiver run through him when he saw the masks made of wood and fur and feathers. They were polished and shone mystically in the dim, golden light. Feathers crowned them over the eye holes and fur made it look softer.
Lucius took great care in fitting the mask onto Harry's face and tying the laces. When it was Harry's turn his hands trembled and suddenly there was nothing he knew about his lover anymore. Now he looked at a wild god of nature, a faun or satyr that would make the night a day for him and take whatever he desired.
With the grace of a big cat Lucius stood up, pulling Harry with him. Together they left their suite. The corridors looked just as mystical as the rooms, and not a soul was there. Candles flickered in their niches and spices sent their heady scents into the cool yet heated air. Harry became dizzy, although he was not drunk at all. It was a strange feeling. Lucius' strong hand pulled him along until they reached the entrance door of the hotel. It stood open and they passed through.
Harry gasped when he saw the place before the hotel. Now it looked nothing like it had before. It was devoid of any magical cars or carriages, instead there stood simple, wooden waggons filled to the rim with straw and adorned with fruits and meats. All around the place stood big bowls out of which roared yellow and golden flames. Masked people stood everywhere; men and women in various states of undress and all with masks. In the middle of the place stood a huge May pole around which several people were dancing, cheering loudly and swinging the colourful strings playfully. Harry felt eyes on him, hungry eyes that promised dark, beautiful, sensuous things. Drums sounded through the cool air of the night, and then other instruments followed. Flutes, violins and bag pipes all played together, creating a hair-rising melody that captured Harry at once in its intensity.
Still holding his hand tightly, Lucius led Harry right into the masses of people and towards the far end of the place where the forest began. The music played faster, more erratic and the dancing became wilder. Lucius' eyes burned through his mask, and his broad chest heaved with obvious desire. He didn't seem to be cold, although his cape was thrown back over his shoulders, revealing his naked upper body to several interested onlookers.
Harry took a tiny step back, half afraid and half aroused by the beast Lucius seemed to have become. Still the music played gayer and quicker, as if sprinting toward a final staccato that had Harry reeling. Suddenly the instruments all stopped, and only the drums were still beating. Harry's heart was beating along, racing in fright. Then even the drums stopped, giving an eerie pause.
"Run," growled Lucius deeply. "Run as fast as you can." The drums started again, now slowly. It sounded downright menacing, and Lucius' dangerous look wasn't helping at all.
So Harry didn't hesitate for a second. He turned on his naked heel and shot off into the forest. Behind him he could hear several others running like the devil was on them as well.
"Run, my dear, I'll chase you to the end of the world if I have to!" roared Lucius in that dark, rough voice. "Run, I'll get you anyway! You're mine! MINE!"
Bodies crashed through the underwood, and Harry heard his own, harsh breathing. Soon hands were trying to grab him but he pushed them away or dodged them. Nobody but Lucius was allowed to touch him, he would see to that. White fog was coming from his nose and mouth, the only signs of the cold that still ruled the nights. Lucius would get him in the end, he knew. He was sweating and he was pumped up with adrenaline. With each meter he ran it became calmer around him until the only sound in the dark forest was his gasping for air.
After minutes he slowed down for the first time, granting himself the time to catch his breath. Luckily he was in good condition; he didn't know if he felt up to facing Lucius so soon. The man was downright scary tonight! There was nothing gentle about him now, it was all instincts and greed, and Harry was admittedly a tad bit afraid of that unleashed power.
Still gasping for air, he leaned against a tree trunk and closed his eyes. Ashamed, he felt his legs shake and his hands tremble. His pulse was racing and he felt tense to the point of snapping.
And then there it was: the faint sound of agile feet running through the woods and old foliage that was covering the ground. Harry swallowed dryly, took a last, shaky breath and took off again, running blindly deeper into the forest to evade his pursuer.
The chase led them through fields of mist, small streams, over patches of moss and gigantic, fallen, moss-covered trees. Harry tried every trick he knew to hide and outsmart the predator, but in the end, as he had known it would happen, Lucius got to him.
With a growl of victory Lucius tackled Harry from behind, making them both crash to the ground. Harry's head was still reeling from the spectacular fall when his capturer was already kissing him, plundering his mouth greedily.
"No!" he managed to pant out. He wanted to say, "Not like this!" but couldn't get a single word out after that. He tried to push Lucius away by pressing against his shoulders, but it was useless. Lucius was hard and unyielding, his body glowed with heat, and his weight pressed Harry effortlessly down.
A hand grasped Harry's dark hair and forced his head back, making him even more vulnerable than before. Lucius' wet tongue slid against his own demandingly, pushing in deeper and stronger than anyone else Harry had ever kissed. He moaned, feeling a fire ignite in him that threatened to blind him by its intensity.
"You're mine," growled Lucius while harshly kissing Harry over and over again, opening his mouth for him by pushing against Harry's lips and breaching them before imitating a hungry love-making with his tongue.
Lucius' hips crashed down against Harry's, rendering him completely helpless. Fingers were everywhere: they opened his cape and spread it out so they could lie halfway comfortably on it, and then they opened Harry's trousers unceremonously. With short, precise movements they were slid down Harry's legs and over his feet, flying away so they wouldn't be in the way.
"I want you," panted Lucius while getting out of his own black trousers. His hands grabbed where they pleased, his arms pushed Harry's legs apart effortlessy and his fingers probed the young body underneath greedily.
"Oh god," sobbed Harry, torn with fear and arousal. "Please don't hurt me, Lucius!"
"Never," whispered the blonde. His fingers were slick and cool when they entered Harry, and hot lips kissed his face reverently. The kissing started anew, now combined with two fingers fucking Harry thoroughly.
Harry's fears were overcome quickly by fiery desire. The drums were back, beating together with his heart that wanted to spring out of his overheated body. Lips closed tightly around his left nipple, fingers grazed that spot deep inside and Harry arched against Lucius' form with a loud groan.
"I'll make you never forget this night," Lucius crooned, biting Harry's ear gently. His fingers curled yet again in that tight body and Harry gave up the fight for composure and came without Lucius needing to touch him.
"What are you doing to me?" Harry asked weakly when Lucius backed off a bit. Bonelessly he let it happen that he was pushed on his knees, with his shoulders down on the soft cape. Hot kisses scorched his back and then, without preamble, Lucius' thick cock took possession of him, touching him so deeply again.
"Loving you," was the husky, breathless reply. "Cherishing you."
Harry closed his eyes, welcoming the deep thrusts. Waves of arousal were gripping him again, and he felt himself firming up under Lucius' ministrations. Pleasure ripped pleas from his throat by which he would be embarrassed if he were able to hear them over the rushing of his blood in his ears.
It didn't take Lucius very long to roar his climax out into the black night, and the feeling of his seed burning in his body made Harry come again, this time harder than the first. Lucius rode his orgasm out, gripping Harry's twitching member to give him the same pleasure. This and the feeling of being used yet being cared for made Harry sob again.
Panting for breath, they seperated. Lucius leaned halfway over Harry's prone form and studied him with those intense eyes of his. His left hand, formerly so firm and unyielding, was now soft like a feather and caressing Harry's face devoutly.
"You have no idea how much I want you, my dear," he purred.
Harry had a rather good idea, since Lucius' cock was up again and pressing against his thigh. He sighed. "Insatiable, that's what you are." He hated how thick his voice sounded.
"Are you afraid of me?" Lucius asked, putting the caressing hand on Harry's stomach to stroke it slowly. His voice sounded interested again, mirroring the signs of his body. Still, there was concern showing through.
"Don't hurt me," Harry said pleadingly, hating that he sounded weak and needy. "Don't play with me."
Lucius bent down and captured Harry's lips in a very tender kiss. His pale hair tickled Harry on the neck and shoulders. "I intend to play with your body as long as you'll let me, love, but I'd never play with your heart." He moved over Harry's body, covering it with his broad frame. "I'll show you that you can be afraid, but never need to be afraid of me. I'll tend to you like you deserve it." He kissed Harry again, conquering everything of his mouth with painstaking patience and thoroughness.
Along the way he started rubbing against Harry's cock, teasing it to hardness yet again. With a satisfied groan he settled fully between Harry's legs and sank into that willing, hot body, filling it up completely.
"Mine," Lucius rasped, thrusting maddeningly slowly and caressing every sensitive spot inside of Harry.
Harry pressed himself tightly against Lucius' body, giving up control completely. It felt so good to be here, to feel Lucius so closely like never before. His words were comforting him so much, welling up so many emotions. Being taken so thoroughly, instead of scaring him, really showed him how deep Lucius' desire for him was. His eyes felt wet, and he choked on tears.
"I love you," he gasped out, overwhelmed by the feeling that it finally needed to be said. Tears blurred his vision but he didn't care.
"My love," whispered Lucius into Harry's ear, pausing and visibly revelling in the feel of just being inside of his young lover. "Say it again."
"I love you," whispered Harry shakily. He clung to Lucius, shedding tear after tear of relief. He had said it at last. But what would happen now? He had laid himself bare for the man who was possessing him.
"Again," demanded Lucius softly. He licked the tears from Harry's face and kissed his lips lightly.
Fear was gripping Harry, and an agonising feeling of numbness spread in his chest. Why was his lover doing that? Did he want to humiliate him after all? He wasn't sure how much more of this he could take. "I love you, Lucius," he said quietly anyway, hating his voice for breaking. His heart was close to breaking, too.
Lucius' eyes lit up with a triumphant fire, and the fiery kisses were back. "I heard your vow, beloved," he rasped. "Three times I heard love from thy lips so sweet."
Harry, through the haze of hurt and lust, didn't understand a word. It sounded like an ancient chant, though.
"Three confessions thou gavest me, and now my love must ransom yours, pure and unpure, hurtful and tender." He pushed as deeply into Harry as he could, then kept still. The soft sound of pained arousal Harry was uttering was kissed away gently. "I love you, my desire, my beautiful friend." He kissed Harry deeply, thrusting gently into him, touching the centre of his aching desire. "I love you, my heart, my sweetest ache." He kissed Harry again, hungrier now. Harry writhed under him, on fire with the incredible fiery lust slowly crawling through him. Lucius smiled. "I love you, my soul, my other half."
The kiss that now followed was so pumped up with desire and magic that Harry orgasmed at once. He clenched around Lucius, ripping the skin on his back open with his fingernails. He felt a hard tug inside him and then something flooded him so sweetly he had no words to describe it. He barely noticed himself screaming the incredible feelings out into the night, together with Lucius who held on to Harry's body with a bruising grip.
When they had finally come down Lucius took Harry's mask off and regarded him like he was made of finest glass or porcelain. For seemingly an eternity they stared at each other, breath slowly stilling. White mist was coming from their noses and mouths, making the masked and the unmasked face look mystical and enigmatic in the moonlit night.
Shakily, Harry reached out and touched Lucius' cheek. His fingers were still burning from heat, and his heart was still beating so fast as if it wanted to jump out of his chest. "Lucius," he whispered, not knowing what he wanted to say.
"I love you, Harry," he said softly in his velvety voice. Lucius leaned down to kiss Harry's face all over again, caressing it tenderly with his lips.
Carefully Harry took Lucius' mask off, taking everything of his face in. Something in him had changed. He felt warm and secure now instead of anxious and nearly heartbroken.
"Please forgive me for hurting you," Lucius whispered, caressing Harry's ear with his tongue when he did. His eyes, surrounded by black paint, stood out like glowing little moons.
Harry shuddered in delight and wound both arms around his lover's broad, deliciously naked back. "No, you must forgive ME for hurting YOU." He traced a scratch on Lucius' shoulder. "I'm sorry for these."
Lucius purred. "It doesn't matter, love." He shifted, and since he hadn't left Harry's body yet, a lovely little gasp left Harry's kiss-swollen mouth.
Moaning softly at the gentle ministrations, Harry revelled in the feelings that filled him up completely now. A dam was broken, and the wall made of reluctance, fear and shame had dissolved into nothing at all, leaving Harry overwhelmed with the heat of his true feelings for Lucius. It was as if it had become true because Lucius had wanted him to say it.
And it was true. So true and pure that Harry's heart ached sweetly and he was branded with it.
"You're mine now, Harry," Lucius growled. He attacked Harry's neck with fervor, firming up again, still inside him.
"Yes, I am," Harry sobbed, clinging to his lover desperately. His tears had smeared the paint on his face, making him look like a pagan offering. "Let me be yours, Lucius, and be mine also."
Teeth were biting the tender, abused skin of his neck, mingling with a wetness that was foreign to Harry. Being filled up yet again, he writhed in heat and arousal. Lucius' body against his was so hot, and his legs were now shaking from the exertion. Their body heat was steaming off of them, making the crisp, cool air around them misty.
When Lucius finally left his neck to kiss Harry's mouth again, his paint was just as smeared as Harry's, and they shared a kiss of passion so deep both seemed to choke on it.
"Marry me, Harry," Lucius gasped, barely restraining himself from taking Harry like the pagan beast he was tonight. "Wed thyself to me and be mine forever."
"Ask me again," Harry moaned.
"Marry me," growled Lucius, setting a slow rhythm and trusting reverently into his lover's body. It was not a question but a demand, and Harry reeled by the lust that held him tightly. "Marry me!"
Harry wound his trembling legs around Lucius' body and accepted each trust into his body. His fingers tangled in Lucius' hair and they looked each other into the eyes when the lust reached its highest pitch. Both screamed their climax into the night, waking birds and scaring little animals that had been lurking around them.
Lucius left Harry this time to give him some time to recover. They never had had so much sex in one night; usually they made love more slowly, drawing the pleasure out. Harry sighed contentedly and snuggled up to Lucius, hiding his face against his chest.
"I'll ask you as often as you need to hear it," said Lucius softly after a while. "I mean it very seriously with you."
Harry kissed his lover's chest. "I don't need to hear it again," he replied. "What I need is you. I need you to actually be there for me."
"No silly games," Lucius agreed. He bent down and kissed Harry's unruly hair. "Wed yourself to me and I'll make you happy." He kissed Harry again. "I plan to make you my husband for forever, and the longer you refuse to answer me the longer I'll follow you until I hunt you down."
"How will I know that you're true?" Harry asked shakily. He hated himself for being weak like this but he was like a child, bitten once and twice as shy. "I couldn't bear to lose you."
"I promise you in this night and under these stars that I'll remain true until we die and meet again in our next lives." Lucius smirked. "But, perhaps, my dear, lovely Harry it would be you who's getting restless first?"
Harry slapped Lucius against his chest and scowled playfully. "You're trying to goad me, you evil man!"
"Of course I am, I'm a Slytherin after all," said Lucius smugly. "And I'm a Malfoy who is used to getting what he wants, and above everything else it is you I want, my dear." He leaned down and started nibbling on Harry's ear. "Give in, spare yourself the chase, as delightful as it would be. It only shortens the precious time we can spend together, sharing one name."
"You really want to marry me?" Harry asked, his throat tight with emotion.
"Not just marry," Lucius purred. "I want to be with you, I want to share my life with you and, perhaps, even give life to another part of us …"
"Gods, you're evil, promising me such enticing things," sobbed Harry, winding his arms around Lucius and hugging him close. "How could I not say yes?"
"So, you will marry me?" Lucius asked again, voice velvety with affection.
"Yes, I do," said Harry, letting out a breath of relief. He didn't even notice that he was crying again, only started slightly when Lucius licked his tears away again.
"You're crying too," Harry stated softly, feeling a wetness on his face that was not his. He traced the skin next to the trails on Lucius' skin, not wishing to destroy the piece of art they had created together.
"Because I'm happy," murmured Lucius, lying contentedly down and holding Harry possessively close to him. "Because you make me happy, love."
"You make me very happy, too," offered Harry shyly and cuddled even closer to his now fiancé.
Lucius chuckled, and then, soon after, the couple was caught up in Morpheus' dream world, resting for the remainder of Beltane Night.
--
