Heh a touch late. sorry!! I was out all last night cause it was so nice. now its almost six and I have school and I've not slept. :) See you later! Hope you enjoy. Might be a little - er itchy on the grammar bit cause I was in a hurry.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Gaping silence fell over the Great Hall, as Lucius' arms immediately extended and caught the powerful wizard before he could touch the ground. Professor McGonagall and another teacher were tending to McLaggan.

Lucius stared at Hermione who looked in horror, with tears streaming down her face. Ron's eyes looked as if they could kill. "What happened?" He found himself asking, looking pointedly at Hermione.

Professor Dumbledore stepped up and touched Hermione on the shoulder, and she jumped instinctively, "It's all my fault." she said as quietly as she could, but the whole hall heard.

"N- no, it's my m- my fault." said Mary, biting her lip as she scrambled up. "He must have found out what he said to me... I tried to keep it silent you know." She looked embarrassed and guilty at the same time.

"Let's resume this in a quieter place." Of all people involved, Hermione said this.

"Yes, I think we ought too."

Lucius carried Harry out of the Great Hall, the conundrum of thoughts returned full on, and now Lucius was found glancing shrewdly from Hermione to the little girl. What had been said that set him off so powerfully? Lucius had never seen anything like it. When Harry barged through, he could feel the magic from where he sat and saw the anger radiating from his companion's body.

The Hospital Wing was deserted of all inhabitants except for McLaggan in the corner, a stunned nurse, and the flood of people including Lucius with Harry entering the room.

"What in Merlin's name is going on?" demanded Madam Pomfery, rushing to Harry's side.

"I believe he's just suffering from his emotions overpowering his magic." Lucius informed, as he very carefully placed Harry on the hospital bed, furthest away from McLaggans.

Madam Pomfery checked him out just in case.

Hermione winced and walked over to Harry, "Is he alright?"

"He's fine." said Madam Pomfery, slowly. "He's had a bit of a magical rush, but nothing that sleep can't cure. But, I'm not so sure about my other patient." she glared at Harry and then looked back at McLaggan who was motionless on the bed.

"He deserved it!" seethed Ron, "He deserved every bit of what Harry gave him for what he said to Hermione and to Mary!"

"What did he say?" asked Lucius, before anyone else could ask.

Mary's eyes closed and she looked to the ground suddenly.

Hermione swallowed and closed her eyes, "McLaggan threatened me when I er - turned him down." she began slowly, her cheeks colouring the entire time.

"He pretty much threatened to rape Hermione!" growled Ron, in rage. His face flushed with anger not embarrassment.

Hermione flinched sharply. Mary gave a hesitant nod, and stared down at the bed, her eyes boring a hole into the mattress.

Lucius looked sharply over at the bed that had McLaggan on it, while Dumbledore's eyes had flashed.

"He said this ages ago." whispered Hermione, gathering herself. "But, I never told him, until Mary." she waved her hand. "I was concerned about her when Harry told me that he had said something pretty bad to her."

Madam Pomfery was in disbelief, "Did he follow through with his threats?"

"No!" said Hermione and Mary at the same time. "I stayed around Harry and Ron for a whole week, when he said that."

"He only just threatened me." said Mary; her cheeks flushed a violent red.

"We will need your statement, Miss Molotivia, Hermione?"

They nodded simultaneously, "I don't want Harry in trouble cause of me." said Mary, softly.

"He will have to face some punishment, but I am sure it will not be as drastic as Mr. McLaggan." reassured Professor Dumbledore softly. "Minerva?" He turned to the Deputy Headmistress who looked like an angry cat.

"Yes, Albus, I'll take the girls to get their statements."

Hermione and Mary quickly followed their Head of House out, leaving Ron to stare at his best friend. "Think it's wise to keep him in the same room as him." Ron glanced scornfully over at McLaggan who was still out of it.

"I will take him." said Lucius at once, glancing once at Dumbledore, who nodded.

"Yes, yes, do that Lucius and when he wakes have him come up to my office?"

Lucius agreed, before gathering Harry in his arms. "Things sure aren't boring with you lot." remarked the Slytherin, with a dull roll of his eyes. "Well deserved however." He passed Ron who quickly backed away from Lucius.

It seemed that Ron had forgotten about being in the presence of the elder Malfoy and was just now registering the fact.

A wash of magic flowed like a wave of water through Harry's veins and he slowly came back to the coherent state of consciousness. He whimpered and found himself in a comfortable format as his eyes snapped opened to the world around him. The familiar scent of Lucius wavered across his senses. "Lucius?" He stared up at the ceiling, just as a swish could be heard.

"Harry?"

His whole body felt much heavier than normal. He lay there for several moments, aware of a hand coming to rest on his forehead. As soon as Harry's mind came back in full and he remembered everything that happened, he sat up abruptly, "Where is he?" snarled Harry, going from calm and collected to lethal anger.

Lucius gently pressed his hand against the boy's chest to stop him from moving. "He is incapacitated in the hospital wing and will soon be expelled from Hogwarts."

"How dare he!" hissed Harry. "How dare he say something so foul and disgusting to my sister and then a little girl for crying out loud. A girl whose - not even mature!"

Lucius sank down on the bed and ran his fingers over Harry's cheek caressingly trying to calm him down. "They are both just fine and have given statements to keep you from being expelled."

Harry closed his eyes, as he felt Lucius' touch. "What did I pass out from?"

"Your magic levels were so high Harry that the stunning charms McGonagall and Flitwick sent your way went wayward. Had you continued, I believe you may have killed him."

Harry bit down on his lip, "I would have." he confessed. He opened his green eyes and they were alight with a fire, in which not many had ever truly witnessed. "I would have killed him without any second thoughts, and I wouldn't have regretted it."

Lucius said nothing to Harry's confession for a moment, and leaned in and pressed a soft kiss along the boy's lips. Harry melted into Lucius' arms; the heavy bunched feeling in his muscles began to relax. Pulling away, the older man cupped Harry's cheeks, "Let's keep this between us."

Harry nodded, and pressed his head against Lucius, "I know, to tell the world this is a good way to send myself to Azkaban in fear of becoming the next Dark Lord."

Lucius laughed softly, "No, Harry. You have too much heart. You would only ever harm someone for doing something to someone you loved."

The teen sighed, and nuzzled his face into Lucius' neck. "He said the most horrific thing."

"I know, your friend and that little girl told us. Well, more like your Weasley friend said it due to their humiliation."

Harry's frown deepened as he leaned up and looked at Lucius. "I probably shouldn't have done that in the Great Hall. I dunno what happened, I was consumed with rage."

"I know I saw you and I watched you. Your wand lit up green. No one else witnessed that I don't believe. You only stopped when I told you too."

Harry closed his eyes and bowed his head, "I'm in big trouble, aren't I?"

"You will most likely be punished, but I do not believe you'll be expelled like McLaggan. The Headmaster wishes to see you as soon as you have risen."

Harry gave a low groan he knew that was coming. "Alright." said the Gryffindor in a resigned voice. He pushed the covers away; he was still clothed but his shoes were off. Lucius helped him up off the bed, and he winced at the unsteadiness in his legs.

"How long have I been out?"

"About two hours, this is surprising from a magical rush. Usually, witches or wizards all sleep for at least eight hours before even being able to move."

"If it's any consolation, my limbs feel as if they weigh a ton." He said, sinking down in the armchair and slipping his boots on.

Lucius grinned, and moved behind Harry and pushed his hair out of the way and began to massage his shoulders. His body relaxed greatly and the tension in them disappitated. "That was amazing magic. I could feel you." Hissed Lucius, into the boy's ear.

Harry smiled, "Really impressed?"

Lucius squeezed against his shoulder's a bit harder than usual, causing Harry to wince slightly, "Oh yeah. I wasn't the only one to feel your magical power, love. It went through the bloody roof."

Harry laughed, "I don't know how I did it."

"Of course you don't know. You had a surge like this a while back didn't you?"

Harry winced, "Yeah, when I got plastered that one night."

"Have you had anymore rushes?"

"Not really, only when I was small and my dad and godfather used to pick on me. I'd get so mad and beg to get away from them and my magic would apparate me." Harry regretted leaving the massaging touch of Lucius, but he had to get to Dumbledore's office.

"Pick on you?" asked Lucius frowning. 'Why would they pick on their child?"

"Well, I guess it's not exactly being picked on. It was their idea of joking and playing with me." Harry pointed out as he checked himself over in the mirror. Subconsciously, Lucius picked up the hairbrush and began to straighten the teen's hair out. "But, they did play a little too rough for an eight year old. I don't fancy being tossed into the pool at the Potter Manor. It was only because of my magic I didn't bloody drown." He stared at himself, "By the way- since when did I shower?"

Lucius snorted and touched Harry's shoulders and leaned in, "You really think I was going to lay you down looking the way you did?"

"Guess not, cleaning charms?"

"Yes and a little physical work." He guided Harry out.

Harry grinned, "Anyone else and I'd be worried about my body."

Lucius smirked, "You still should be." He teased.

Harry laughed, and nudged him with his elbow, "You don't need me asleep to take advantage."

"No, indeed, I don't." agreed Lucius, slyly.

The hallway was practically deserted, when Harry asked the time, he said, "Nearly dinner time."

"Ah, no wonder." The people, who did pass, quickly looked back at him their mouths open slightly. A few people were a bit scared of him while those in Slytherin and Ravenclaw admired the power.

Lucius' hand remained on the small of Harry's back, as they rounded a corner and toward the stone gargoyles. "Raspberry Platomines." said Lucius, lowly.

"Strawberry is better."

Lucius snorted, "You'd think so." He said, with a glitter in his blue eyes.

Harry stuck out his tongue childishly and jumped up onto the revolving staircase.

"Are you in the least bit concerned about your fate?"

"Nope, I defended Hermione and Mary, that's enough for me."

"They won't expel you."

"It would be bothersome if they did, but I wouldn't take back what I did, and I damn well not apologising. That son of a bitch, threatened my sister, with rape and so I will promise him with death."

"Ssh." Lucius grabbed him by the waist, as they took the ride on the staircase. He pushed into Harry until his lips were touching the boy's ear, "I know that, you know that, and he probably knows that now. No need for others to know."

Harry closed his eyes; he knew he had to watch his tongue. The wrong movement could land him in even more trouble. He nodded to Lucius, understanding full well, why the man was trying to quiet him down. "That's a Gryffindor for you."

"Loud and troublemaking." Harry laughed. "In your own - good way I guess." added Lucius, dryly.

With a swift tap against the Griffin knocker, they were called into the room by an overly cheerful voice of the Headmaster.

Professor Dumbledore smiled benignly when he saw Harry and Lucius walk into the room. "How you feeling Harry?" asked Dumbledore warmly, as he stood and looked the boy over quizzically.

"I'm fine, Headmaster, just a bit tired."

"Good, good, extraordinary magical talent you showed earlier this afternoon. I wouldn't have expected a more wonderful show when your emotions are sky high."

Harry blinked and looked over at Lucius, who was also looking curious. "H - Headmaster, I nearly killed a student..." He winced, as Lucius threw him a sharp look. "Well? I did!" He told Lucius, "I know, I should keep silent, but come on you're scaring me Headmaster."

Lucius' lip quirked, "I have to agree with Harry, on that one. You are taking this rather lightly."

Professor Dumbledore's smile never wavered, "It is hard, and to be upset when it is likely I might have reacted in the same way. I might not have had a bunch of watchers but that can't be helped when one's anger and emotions override logical thinking."

Harry's mouth gaped; he was stunned over the Headmaster's words. Lucius reached a hand over and gently snapped the teen's mouth shut. The teen blushed, and shook his head. "Okay, but - what's my punishment?"

Dumbledore smiled, "Unfortunately, we do have to give you one, for striking an unarmed student, and however justified it may be. The statements given by Hermione and Miss Molotovia will definitely show in your favour and I have a feeling, with being who you are and being with Lucius Malfoy may also work in your favours with the governors."

Lucius smirked, "Imagine that."

Harry's blush burned a shade darker, "So, what is my punishment until I hear from the governors?" He asked, curiously.

Dumbledore smile turned slightly grim, "Well, I have little choice but to suspend you until further notice."

Harry winced slightly, he should have expected that. "How does that go here?"

Dumbledore gave a gentle smile, "Normally the student will return home until further notice has been heard from the governors. However, I have already spoken to your parents, and they have agreed that it would be better for all involved if you remained here in the castle. You must remain under the guardianship of an appointed professor, and kept out of trouble at all costs."

"Alright." said Harry, slowly. "What's that mean anyway? That I can't go anywhere without a guardian?"

"I wouldn't recommend it." said Professor Dumbledore by way of answer. "You are vulnerable to lies, I doubt it but there may be one or two people out there that will back up Mr. McLaggan simply because of publicity matters." He said, resuming his seat behind his desk.

Harry groaned and scratched his head, "I really don't want to follow McGonagall around all week..." He sat down in the comfortable scarlet chair across from the Headmaster.

Lucius came up behind him and squeezed him particularly hard, "What do I look like?" asked Lucius Malfoy, silkily. "Am I a student? Or an elf?"

Harry laughed, unable to help himself, as he glanced sheepishly up at Lucius. "I just - I figured - uhm." But he couldn't find the words to tell the man why he hadn't given him a thought. How was he to say it?

Lucius glared at Harry as if reading his thoughts, and lowered his head and hissed, "You figured, since I already see you every day, I wouldn't want put up with you being under my care? Bloody hell, what have we been doing for two months?"

Harry felt his face burning again, embarrassed that his mind thought of this. "But it's by your choice. I don't want someone to appoint you to me."

Lucius blinked, "Have you not learned anything about me, Harry?" chastised the older man, lightly.

Harry swallowed, "Heh, I guess I shouldn't assume huh?" He stared innocently up at the man.

Lucius scowled lightly and tugged at the end of his hair, "Correct." He looked to the Headmaster, who found it amusing. "Headmaster?"

"You already have your appointed guardian. So, I will go ahead and send out the suspension, starting tonight at nine o' clock."

"I'll have Harry's stuff retrieved from Gryffindor."

Harry remained silent throughout most of the conversation. He only spoke when a question was directed at him. His mind was on something more than being suspended. They were on Hermione and Mary. He had hoped he didn't make a fool of them because of his anger.

Before the end of the conversation, Harry couldn't help but ask, "Can I still see my friends?"

Dumbledore smiled, "Yes, of course, but I would advise that you remain in Lucius' corridors or classroom during school hours and you will be unable to attend Quidditch until this is resolved."

Harry grimaced but nodded in understanding. "What about school work?"

"I am sure Hermione wouldn't argue in collecting it for you."

Soon after, the conversation was over and Harry had to sign his name on technical forms. The Headmaster had expressed, that he wished this didn't have to occur.

"It always seems that justified defence counts for very little in the eyes of the public unless it benefits them." he said sadly.

"I don't care." said Harry, standing. "Is McLaggan being expelled?"

"Yes, as soon as he leaves the Hospital Wing, which may not be for another few days..."

Harry sneered, "Yeah well, he ought to be-" But what he ought to be was never heard for Lucius covered the teen's mouth with his hand.

"Don't finish that."

Harry's eyes went from hard to a sheepish twinkle. Lucius slowly let go, "Sorry."

"That is quite alright." said Dumbledore, grinning widely.

Harry shrugged, "Heh, Gryffindor tendencies."

"Indeed."

When Harry stopped off at Gryffindor that evening, he was clobbered by Hermione with tight hugs, while Mary shyly came over and thanked him.

"So, how much damage did this cause you?" asked Hermione guiltily, as she sat down next to Harry who was between her and Ron.

"Suspension until the governors decides the proper action."

"Oh, no!" Hermione gasped, "He wasn't worth it Harry!"

"He sure was." scowled Harry. "I'd do it again in a heartbeat."

"Argh, I only wish I had a chance to get at him." stated Ron scornfully. "He had no right, Hermione. You shouldn't have kept it from us. What if he had followed through with his threat?" Hermione grimaced, Ron had never been more right. "Then Harry and I would definitely be in Azkaban."

She sighed, "I guess, I never thought it would come to telling you." said Hermione trying to keep the embarrassment out of her voice. "But, then, Mary." she whispered, "When you told me, McLaggan had said something awful to her - I knew then I had better say something just in case he went through with his threat on her, cause she's smaller and only has female friends." She shook her head, "They shouldn't suspend you."

"That's what Dumbledore said." Harry told her. "It's okay, as long as I get my homework."

"Oh, you'll get it!" said Hermione. "I'll even duplicate all my notes."

"Oye! What about me?" asked Ron, sulkily.

Hermione rolled her eyes, "You can write them yourself."

"Hmph!" He grumbled.

That evening, after Harry left Gryffindor he headed back to Lucius' corridors when Draco fell into step next to him.

"What happened?" asked the blond.

"He threatened Hermione with rape."

Draco's eyes widen, "No wonder, you were pissed."

"Then - you know the little girl on the Quidditch team?"

"The one who looks as though she's ten years old?"

"Mhmm, he did the same to her."

"Now, that's just sick!" declared Draco. "That's like - a little girl. I mean - a very small girl."

"Precisely, and Hermione said it well, she has no male friends. So McLaggan could have easily done harm to her."

When they entered the office, they saw Lucius sitting at his desk and across was Severus. They'd been in a discussion about - something, Harry had yet to figure it out, but both of them looked irritated.

"This a bad time?" said Harry, wincing seeing their looks.

Neither of them responded; Harry shared a glance with Draco, silently wondering whether they should leave and come back later.

"It's fine." said Lucius, standing abruptly and picking up a stack of papers.

Severus glanced over before standing, "I will see you later Lucius."

Lucius nodded, without saying a word. Draco nudged Harry, "I'm going to go. I just wanted to find out what the hell happened in the Great Hall."

"I hardly remember." admitted Harry.

Draco smirked, "Well, it was quite the show, see you Harry." He walked out, leaving Harry to stare at his companion with concern.

What was he irritated over? Harry walked over, and around when Lucius sat down, his eyes was glittering darkly. Harry wrapped his arms around the tense man's neck and pressed his chin against his shoulder.

Lucius' hand came up and touched the arm around his neck and he relaxed. Harry pressed light kisses against his neck. "Sometimes, I wonder why I put up with Minister Fudge."

Harry stopped kissing his neck, his lips lingered on flesh, "What happened?"

"Frivolous shite." answered Lucius. "The re-election is coming up. He requested a meeting with you." Harry tensed up instantly. Lucius shook his head, "No need to get worried. I told him there wasn't a chance of it."

"I bet he didn't like that."

"Not in the slightest." said Lucius, pulling Harry in front of him and then curling his arm around the boy's thin waist.

Harry turned and slid in the older aristocrats lap until he was straddled and facing him. "He wanted you to help - promote him."

Harry scoffed. "I will do no such thing." stated the teen in disgust.

"I didn't think you would, not for a moment. I told him I would put some money toward the sponsoring if he kept away from you."

Harry blinked in surprise, "W- what did he say?"

"He didn't like it, but he has little choice. I am only one of three that's sponsoring him."

Harry didn't really dwell much on politics, they were too dishonest and messy. It wasn't something he could ever see himself doing in several years time. Harry didn't like Fudge because he was dishonest and he cared more for himself and his lined pockets than he did the magical community.

"Whose going against him?"

"A man named Scrimgeour."

"Oh! Sirius' boss?"

Lucius nodded, "He has a lot of backing."

"You don't back him, huh?"

Lucius smirked, "I have Fudge in my hands, Harry. As distasteful as Fudge is, it's because of him that I hold the cards. Scrimgeour won't be so easy to convince."

Harry tried to piece this together; Lucius had just said that he wouldn't sponsor Fudge if he tried to get him on his side. But, Lucius wanted him to stay in office because it was easier for Lucius to remain in high power.

Ah, thought Harry. That was where the whole Slytherin ambition came in. Lucius was double playing Fudge. "How is Scrimgeour any better?"

"He wouldn't be after about five years in office. He'll turn into Fudge. They all do, but I'd rather not take five years of kissing the wizard's arse, when I've got the current Minister kissing mine."

Harry laughed softly, and wrapped his arms around Lucius' neck again and kissed him before resting his forehead against the Slytherin's shoulder. "Thank you for keeping me out of it."

"It never crossed my mind to put you into a nasty mess such as politics." said Lucius, running his hands up and down Harry's arms tenderly.

"It won't hurt your position will it?"

"No, I have Fudge where I need him. He acts like a mere child now to me. An ugly, overage annoying child..." he corrected. "He'll pretty much whine and the most ungraceful way."

Harry raised his head, he laughed again, this time louder than before. "I'd love to see that one of these days." he sniggered.

"After the third or fourth time it gets old - quick."

Harry smiled, and brushed the back of his fingers against Lucius' cheeks down to his strong jaw line; he leaned in and kissed him passionately.

Lucius' hands held Harry hips and took control. Harry tilted his head to the side and flicked his tongue amorously against Lucius'.

Wordlessly, Harry pushed himself into Lucius, when an erotic sensation flowed over him. His body heated up and his hands could not keep to themselves. He instantly made work of Lucius' shirt.

Lucius moved back just slightly and tightened his grip around Harry. He stared him in the eyes, "Again?" teased Lucius, unable to help himself.

Harry gave him an open mouthed kiss, "Your fault." he purred.

Lucius laughed and cupped the back of Harry's neck and inclined it so that he could place sensuous kisses against his flesh. "How is it my fault? You're just a horny mess."

Harry gave a strangled giggle and slid his hands down and tugged whisperingly against Lucius' restrictive belt. "Again, your fault. You made me this way."

"This is the second time today."

"Well, you know me and mornings." said Harry, grinning slyly when the belt finally came undone.

"Yes, I certainly do. Let me see - every single morning we almost always run late..."

Harry kissed Lucius, "I never hear you complaining."

"It's hard to complain, when my mouth gets full."

Harry groaned and nimbly unzipped Lucius' trousers. He then slid eloquently from the man's lap straight to the floor between his legs.

Lucius shook his head, a smile playing his features, "You're nothing but a minx." He fingered the silky black tresses of Harry's hair.

Harry's emerald eyes glittered as they gazed up at him, "Your minx."

"Hmm, lucky me."

"I would say so; you have the Saviour on his knees."

Lucius groaned and untucked his shirt, "A fine place for you to be, my love."

Harry's serene laugh soon died out and a flash of lust sparkled as he took over Lucius with his mouth.

Harry was surprised when the papers did not get a hold of him attacking McLaggan. There wasn't a trace of the story anywhere. Harry was sure that the reporters would love to jump on a story such as this.

Halloween passed with no word from the governors. Harry was still in suspension and spending all his time with Lucius in the Slytherin's Defence Classroom watching the going-ons.

It was on particular morning in November; Harry was sitting behind Lucius desk in a bit of a slump. His coal black hair fell sleekly over his shoulders and he was wearing almost all white except for the gold eagle on the back of his open and tucked in white silk shirt. Lucius only just entered with his planner and placed it in front of Harry.

"This weekend is the first Quidditch game and I can't play." He told the man glumly.

"They could have it turned around by the weekend."

"My teams hardly ready." He said, softly. "I was supposed to spend this week helping Mary get over her fright of bludgers."

"Whose co-captain?"

"Ron and Katie. Ron's the strategist and Katie well - I don't know how well she is at being a captain. Ginny's going to have to take my spot." This made the teenager look even more depressed.

Lucius gripped the boy's shoulders and began to massage gently. Harry closed his eyes to the touch, remembering it from this morning and couldn't help but give a smile however small it was.

"It'll work out."

The first class of the day was the first year Gryffindor and Slytherins. Harry sank back, pressed his knees against the desk and propped up the new book he had taken from Lucius' small library.

Most of the kids were used to seeing Harry in the classroom. The only ones it ever bothered were a few Gryffindors and Slytherins. Especially, the Slytherins. However, they knew better than to even open their mouths near Lucius, he could be worse than Severus for Lucius had no problem with slamming someone from his old house with a weeks worth of detention for opening their mouths.

Pansy Parkinson had become the first victim.

When lunchtime came, Lucius and Harry had lunch in Severus' rooms. During the middle of the lunch Lucius excused himself and left the room for about twenty minutes. Harry didn't talk much, he was too depressed.

"I thought we were passed the silence." commented Severus.

Harry blinked and looked up from his plate, "Oh, its not that." said the teen, honestly. "I'm not uncomfortable, I'm just -" He shrugged, "This weekend's Quidditch and I can't even play all because of some bastard who threatened to rape my sister and a little girl." He scowled and stabbed the grilled chicken violently with his fork. "Ridiculous."

"If this was against Slytherin, I would be amused." commented Severus.

Harry stuck out his tongue, but he couldn't help but smile slightly at the comment. "I'm just surprised that the Daily Prophet hasn't been all over this."

Severus arched an eyebrow, "Has it ever occurred to you, that because of Lucius, they may be just a little cautious to write something damaging to your profile."

Harry raised his head, "I never thought of that."

Severus smirked, "Of course not. You're a Gryffindor; it's surprising you even think at all."

Harry laughed and then scoffed as he swatted Severus' arm, "That's not fair!" sulked Harry, "Hermione's a brain."

"I wonder sometimes if the hat made a mistake, with her."

"She's brave." said Harry. "And she's not selfish. She puts others before herself. She never would have told us about McLaggan had Mary not been involved."

"You have a point."

When Lucius came back it was nearly the end of lunch, and he had a pleased look on his face.

"Where'd you go?" asked Harry, as they bid Severus good-bye and headed out of the man's office. He looped his arm through Lucius' as they rounded the Grand Staircase toward the Defence Classroom.

Lucius smirked, "You'll see."

The 'you'll see' came later that evening, after classes were over with; Professor Dumbledore sent a floo message to the fireplace where Harry and Lucius were curled up in front of that night. He requested their presence.

Lucius smirk came back and Harry eyed him warily, as he slid off the man's lap. "What's this about?"

"You'll see."

Harry rolled his eyes at the two lettered phrase, "Did I ever tell you how much I despise that very remark?"

Lucius stood and curled his arm around Harry drawing him close. He gave Harry tender butterfly kisses. "Trust me?"

Harry scowled and smacked his chest, "Of course I do. I just - hate the whole, 'you'll see' phrase."

"You'll like it. Come." He wrapped his arm around Harry and led him out of the room.

Professor Dumbledore was beaming when they entered the circular office. He was standing by Fawkes gold post stroking the fabulous phoenix who cooed with every touch.

"Ah, Lucius and Harry." he said cheerfully. "Harry, I have some excellent news for you. The Governors have decided that your two week suspension was punishment enough and you should return to classes by Monday morning. You may also continue your Quidditch duties."

Harry gasped and looked to Lucius who grinned slyly. "You did this!" He said, yanking the man's sleeve. "You got me off!"

Lucius' eyes glittered and he looked as though he wanted to comment on Harry's phrase, but with the Headmaster in the room he decided that now was not the time. "Yes, Harry, I have a few friends in the offices and at lunch I simply explained to them that it was quite unfair that you be punished for keeping a possible rapist in a school full of children. They were quick to take our side when I hinted that they would be inadvertently consorting with a man who would easily land himself in Azkaban."

Harry laughed and lost all composure or any propriety he had and wrapped his arms around Lucius and hugging him tight around the neck. "Thank you!"

Lucius laughed and locked his arms around Harry, and shook his head, "You ruin a man's reputation quicker than a kitten."

Dumbledore chuckled softly, and watched with his eyes twinkling. "I have already made arrangements for the Quidditch pitch to be booked for Gryffindor for the next three days from five to nine if that would help?"

Harry grinned, "Definitely!" He hadn't been thinking when he ran over and gave Dumbledore a hug. "Thank you!"

Lucius rolled his eyes but he had a smile on his face; Dumbledore smiled, his eyes twinkling endlessly. "You're very welcome Harry." he said, squeezing the teen, who was trying to pull back realising he was hugging the Headmaster. "Haha, I haven't had a hug like that from you since you were seven years old. I sure have missed it." Harry laughed hesitantly.

"It is finally confirmed, just who your favourite is, Headmaster. We always suspected, but you just told on yourself." stated Lucius, eyebrows twitching.

Dumbledore's smile could only widen, Harry remained flushed and looked down at his feet. "Well, I believe I'm not the only one choosing favourites, Lucius my boy."

Lucius' lip quirked, "Whatever old man." Slightly losing composure when he was called boy.

Harry burst out in laughter, knowing exactly what Lucius was thinking.

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled, "How about some tea, while you're here then?" he suggested.

Lucius arched an eyebrow, "So long as you keep the 'boy' out of a sentence with my name anywhere near it."