I am really, really, really sorry for the late update. I work, go to university, do extra-curriculars, and have a social life; fanfiction is not my priority, but nine months between updates is fairly excessive even for me. I apologize to those of you who are still following my story. I actually had to go back and read over my work to make sure I didn't contradict anything. This is pretty good; I don't remember writing most of it. Well, here is your long, long, long awaited update. And I am happy to announced that this story now has over 100 reviews. Happy reading!

Jade woke up alone. He smiled to himself. Panicked and ran did he? He stretched, enjoying the luxurious feel of the soft sheets against his skin. Looks like I managed to get some sleep after all, and nightmare free too. It was Sunday, his day off, so he did not even have to worry about having overslept. How nice of snake-faced bastard to plan his meetings for such a convenient night. In a ridiculously good mood, Jade bounced out of bed, folded last night's robe over his arm and wandered into the sitting room.

Severus was perusing a copy of Potion's Monthly_How clichéd_ and steadfastly refusing to look up, though his eyes no longer moved across the page. "Are you feeling better then? You must be if awkwardness has already set in." This made the man raise his head with a snarl on his lips and no doubt a caustic reply just waiting to be unveiled... It never came.

Severus stilled, his eyes roaming over the virtually unclad form before him. It was nothing he had not seen before but he had never had the opportunity to just look. Merlin, the boy is beautiful! He could still remember the feel of that smooth flesh against his own, even if he had been too exhausted to properly appreciate it at the time.

"What? Your sarcasm has failed you?" that smirk was entirely too smug.

"Just blindsided by your absolute lack of decorum," Severus held back a flinch at his own words. Sure, let us alienate the boy. That would just serve our purposes perfectly would it not?

Jade did not miss a beat, "I'd say decorum went on holiday when I spent the night in your arms. Or was I supposed to pretend that never happened?" He grinned, "I have no intention of holding last night against you but I am not the sort to bury my head in the sand. You're not going to make me regret helping you by being an utter bastard about it. Maybe my actions were a bit inappropriate but I am your apprentice not your student, so what does it matter?"

How can he be standing there, mostly naked, and still have the upper-hand? "It is your day off; surely you have something more interesting planned than giving self-righteous speeches?" Just like that, the tension dissipated.

"Yeah, Draco's probably got my whole day planned. I just have to present myself."

"You have been spending a great deal of time with the Malfoy heir."

The youth shrugged, "Not like I'm doing it on purpose, he's just always around, and he's not bad company."

Snape was left alone to ruminate over this new piece of information. The Malfoy brat could be trouble.

Ron Weasley was frustrated. How was he supposed to be the best friend of the Chosen One if the boy in question was missing? Not that it was any great loss; the attention seeking prat was just trying to make everyone go through the effort of hunting him down. Ungrateful git. He was missing his perks though. After the first month of telling everybody who would listen that Potter was off training to defeat You-Know-Who, they stopped trying to get him to tell them anything. Now he could barely get them to talk to him. It was so unfair that Potter hogged all the glory when he was the one risking his life just by being friends with the twerp. The selfish brat had better get him a damn good Christmas present to make up for his treatment, and none of this Chudley Cannons crap either. They might be his favourite team but their merchandise is the cheapest on the market and Potter could afford to just buy the whole team. How stingy can you get? You would think that as the best friend I would rate at least a top-of-the-line broom or a phoenix egg or something.

Hermione was being more annoying than ever. When she was not nagging about homework she was ranting about that new Snake. She seemed to think it was Potter in disguise. For someone so smart she could sure be stupid. There was no way Potter could ever be a Slytherin. He would have notice for sure. Besides the Prat-Who-Lived had all the cunning and ambition of a flobberworm. If Ron still could not manage a decent glamour, there was no way Potter could do it. No, Hermione just did not want to admit she was wrong. What a know-it-all. It was a good thing she was not bad to look at and a decent lay. The Weasley clan needed some fresh blood and she was smart enough to make loads of money. She could work full time and they would be able to afford servants to watch the kids. Now if only I could train her to shut-up.

Hermione Granger was exhausted. She had been searching the library for months and could still not figure out how Harry was disguising himself. It was just so frustrating. Her only consolation was the fact that Harry was not intelligent enough to manage such a thing on his own; Professor Dumbledore had to be helping him. She was offended that she was not a part of whatever plot Harry was creating. Had she not proved herself to be the sensible, brilliant, and talented member of the Golden Trio? Sure Harry had more raw power, but he had not the brains to back it up. He was too reckless to be trusted on his own; the fiasco in the department of mysteries proved that much. Why was Snape in on the plan but not her? Clearly Harry could not have gained an apprenticeship on his own merit; the idea was laughable.

Ron was driving her insane. Without Harry around to set a good example the redhead flat out refused to do his homework. He did the absolute minimum to stay out of detention and usually just copied hers or made up his answers. He did not believe that Jaden Lefey and Harry Potter were one in the same and had the nerve to mock her conclusions on the subject. The boy was absolutely useless. She would not bother with him at all if wizarding society was not so backwards. In order for a muggleborn to get anywhere in life she would have to marry a pureblood. Ron, with all his personality defects, still managed to hold a higher status in their world than she could ever manage. It was not like she had pureblood suitors lining up down the halls, and he was easy enough to control. She would just have to make certain to make enough money at whatever career she chose to afford servants; otherwise she would be expected to look after the broad of squalling redheaded brats she would, no doubt, be expected to pop out. Given the choice, she would rather marry Harry, but he had never shown the slightest interest and Dumbledore would likely interfere if she tried love potions. The Golden boy was, after-all, supposed to marry some sweet little pureblood witch.

Remus was, for the first time since his pack-mate's death, content. He was living in Potter Manor with all his needs provided for before he realised they were there. It had taken some convincing from both Harry and Moony, but Remus finally accepted that he was living here as family under direct orders from his alpha and not as a guest. Narcissa's presence was an unexpectedly pleasant addition to his home. The moment she set foot in the door of the manor she had recognised the coat-of-arms in the entryway. As a properly raised pureblood, she was instantly at ease, safely under the protection of the current Lord Black and delivered there by her own son. The Lady Malfoy had wasted no time in divorcing her husband. She was left without a penny to her name as her dowry was forfeit upon destruction of the marriage, but she seemed to accept this as fair trade for the return of her maiden name. Her manners were friendly and engaging, and he found himself spending much of his days by her side. He was grateful that she did not show any apparent prejudice against his lycanthropy. She was stunning when she smiled.

George was sprawled across his twin's chest. Their mother would disown them both if she saw them now. She would never understand. It was not incest, not really, just their unique version of masturbation. How was it that only the people who could tell them apart would also accept them as two halves of a single entity rather than two separate interchangeable people? Their mother had never been able to tell them apart. Their father could, as well as their eldest two brothers, Lee, and Harry. The twins were starting to give up hope of ever finding someone who could love them both. Harry, or rather Jade, was their brother and Lee was straight. Everyone they had ever tried to date had either been uncomfortable with the idea of dating two people at once or just liked the idea of twins and not even bothered trying to tell them apart.

Draco was happy. For the first time in his life he was sure of his place in the world; he belonged at Jade's side. For better or worse, that was exactly where he would remain and neither his father, the dark lord, nor Dumbledore would stand in his way. The raven was stunning, brilliant, powerful, wealthy, and a pureblood, if only first generation, with a heart of pure gold. He was everything a Malfoy could desire in a master, or a mate. Draco was unashamed to admit that he was head-over-heels in love with the man. It did not exactly come as a surprise. Ever since he had laid eyes on the other boy in the robe shop, first year, he had been irresistibly drawn to the raven. Now, at least, he could entertain some hope of acceptance. He was determined that whatever Harry's response to his advances, Draco would never again turn his back on the man. The friendship was more than he had ever dared hope. Should he be rejected, it would have to be enough.

Molly was busy. All of her children were coming home for Christmas, even Percy and her two eldest. She was knitting and baking, and cleaning, everything a good housewife should do. The only unfortunate part was her recent difficulties getting into the Potter trust vault. Dumbledore had promised to take care of it. She had been forced to dip into the dowry she had set aside for Ginny. Her husband knew nothing of course. She had always handled the family's finances. She could not wait for Ginny to be the next Lady Potter. Poor Harry was not likely long for this world and the least he could do was ensure that his surrogate family was well taken care of. And on the off chance he survived the war, at least there would be beautiful green-eyed grand-babies. Now if only the Brat-Who-Ran would drag his cowardly arse out of hiding.

Albus was frustrated. There was still no sign of Potter, Gringotts had blocked his access to the Potter Vaults, and Snape had been pressing for special privileges for his new favourite Slytherin. If the spy wanted to bugger the child that was fine but what was the point in providing extra education to a future deatheater. Worse, he had managed to get the backing of most of the staff. As if the child in question was not enough of an annoyance already, Lefey had managed to singlehandedly breach the gap between houses. He was well-liked by all the houses; less than a third of the Griffindors were still wary of the boy. It was Tom Riddle all over again. And if the child was truly a Lefey, then he could use politics to take over Wizarding Britain and not have to resort to terrorism. The boy's very existence was a disaster. Hopefully Severus would break the child physically and mentally and Albus would not have to resort to desperate measures. What was the point in keeping a pet deatheater if they could not do one's dirty work?

Arthur was worried. There was still no sign of Harry. Hopefully the poor boy had finally realised that it was in his best interests to disappear and was having a grand time over in America or somewhere off the beaten track. The boy had proven time and again that he could handle himself but that did not stop Arthur from worrying about the young man he had come to consider his youngest son. He was suspicious about his wife's and daughter's plans for the boy. He adored Ginny, but he could admit that she had grown up rather spoiled and would not make Harry the best wife. He was concerned that Ron was just using the Boy-Who-Lived. It was a sad day when a man could not completely trust his own family. He hoped Percy, at least, would come to his senses soon.

Neville and Luna were amused. The whole country searched desperately for Harry while he was hiding under their noses. As if they each would not recognise their first real friend, he had not even bothered to disguise himself. They had agreed not to approach him, in case they revealed him by accident. They would wait out this year and befriend Jade the next. They would support him in any way they could even if they each had little to offer. In the mean time, they both kept their eyes and ears open for any information he might find useful_ being invisible had its uses_ and studied everything they could get their hands on that might help in battle.

Jade crept quietly across the common room. His quarry continued to read, entirely unaware of the danger. Jade lunged, tackling the oblivious blonde and pinning him to the sofa.

Draco glared up at him, "You realise you just mussed up my hair?"

Jade grinned, "Terribly sorry, next time I'll cast a stasis charm on your head first."

"See that you do." Draco made no attempt to push the other boy off.

Jade released the blonde's arms and made himself comfortable on the boy's chest. "I notice you didn't put your name down as staying for Yule. Does that mean you're coming home with me?"

"Where else would I go?"

"Maybe you missed your father and wanted to go spend the holidays with him and his lord."

"I have my own lord. Why would I want to spend quality time with his."

Jade frowned and pulled himself off the other boy, "I'm not your lord Draco."

"Yes, in the eyes of the law, tradition, and magic itself, you are and always shall be my lord and master." He sat up and reached a hand to cup Jade's cheek, "I am yours Jade, to do with as you will. It would do you good to remember that."

Jade sighed, "I had better go meet Severus. I'll see you tomorrow."

Jade tried to put Draco's words out of his mind as he slipped into his and Severus' quarters. You cannot own a human being even if they are sworn to you.

"You are early; should I be concerned?"

Jade smiled and turned to the only man he would ever call his master, "Draco said something I would rather not think about so I came down here to avoid the topic."

"It is unlike you to run from confrontation. What was it that bothered you so?"

Jade loved how easy it was to talk to Severus. "He called me his lord and master, and not in jest."

"This troubles you?"

Jade bristled, "Of course. I'm nobody's master. You can't own another human being."

"Hmm, tell me, what am I to you?"

Jade blinked at the sudden change in topic, "You are my mentor, my master, and occasionally my friend. Why?"

The man just smirked.

Jade frowned and thought over his choice of words. "…My master... It's not really the same, though."

The man rose from his chair and prowled slowly to Jade, "Is it not?"

Jade's back hit the wall before he realised he had been backing up. "No, I mean, our agreement is temporary. I could end it at any time. I chose this."

Severus laid one palm flat to the wall and ran the other slowly through Jade's hair. "Would you, though? If I asked something of you that you wished not to give, would you refuse me?" the tone was low, dangerous.

Jade swallowed. His whole body thrummed with excitement, pulse reeling and breathing erratic. That hand had travelled to his throat and was playing at his collar. He licked his lips and gave the only answer he could. "No."

"Why not?" a command this time.

"I trust you."

The hand stilled and pulled away. Severus stepped back, his eyes displaying a mixture of awe, lust, and guilt. "You should not."

Severus sighed, "That aside, you call me your master because you choose to. Mr. Malfoy is no different. The only difference is that you renew your choice every time I give you an order while his actions are based on a single decision made previously. You have never nor, if you are the man I believe you to be, will you ever give him reason to regret that decision. What is important is not whether you own him, but that he wishes to belong to you."

"You want me, don't you?"

Snape scoffed, "Do not ask questions for which you are unprepared for the answer."

"I have long since learned my lesson about being caught unprepared."

Severus quirked a half-smile, "You should go to bed. I left your assignments on your trunk."

"Who gives homework over Yuletide?" Jade paused before the door to his room, "Oh and Severus, thank you for helping me sort out my perspective."

"What are mentors for?"

Jade and Draco took the train to Kings Cross and apparated straight to Potter manor. Tabby met them at the door.

"Master Lefey and Master Malfoy is most welcome. Master Lupin and Mistress Black be in the upper greenhouse. Missy will take Masters' luggage to Masters' rooms. Would Master Lefey prefer Master Malfoy be in the blue room in the north wing or the brown room in the south wing?"

"Actually, I was thinking the green room in the west wing."

"But that be Master's wing."

"And Draco is family. See it done please."

"As Master wishes."

Harry grinned over his shoulder. Draco was blushing a pretty pink. "Shall we go find our guests?"

As the boys wandered into the greenhouse, the first thing they noticed was the laughter. Remus and Narcissa were sitting rather close together, smiling joyously and gazing into each other's eyes.

Harry cleared his throat. Remus was on his feet instantly with his wand in hand.

"Jumpy are we?"

Remus narrowed his eyes, "Cub? Is that really you?"

"Who else would it be?"

Harry found himself with an armful of ecstatic werewolf. "Sorry about the greeting, but you had your hood up at our last two meetings. This is the first time I've gotten a good look at you. You've really grown up."

"It's good to see you Remus."

"So what are you calling yourself these days?"

"Jaden Leonus Lefey, at your service," He executed his most flourishing bow.

Jade moved across from Narcissa and gave a more proper bow. "Lady Black, forgive me for being here to welcome you properly to my home."

She rose and curtsied elegantly, "Not at all, Lord Potter-Black. I thank you most humbly for your hospitality in my hour of need."

"You are family, Milady. You shall always have refuge here."

"Thank you Milord."

"Please, call me Jade. Formalities are rather new to me after all."

"Then I insist you call me Narcissa. We are, as you say, family after all."

Jade smiled, "It would be a pleasure, Narcissa."

Draco chose that moment to pull his mother into an embrace, "Mother, you are well I hope."

"Of course darling, I have been well taken care of, and the company is most tolerable," she flashed Remus a smile.

Jade smirked, "We noticed."

Remus blushed but Narcissa just smiled contentedly. Draco looked a bit green.

The unorthodox family settled into an easy routine. They all ate breakfast together, then the boys would go flying or tromping through the forest or whatever else struck their fancy until lunch, leaving Remus and Narcissa to each other. After lunch Jade would tuck himself away in either the library or the lab until dinner. Sometimes Draco joined him, sometimes not. Draco always had tea in the afternoon with Narcissa, while Remus went into town to hear the newest whispers concerning the war.

It was after dinner and Jade once again had his nose stuck in a book when Draco strode in. His eyes were determined. He stood directly in front of Jade's chair and pulled the book from the raven's hands, carefully marking the page before setting it on a nearby table. He turned back to Jade and licked his lips nervously.

Jade leaned back in his chair and studied the blonde curiously, waiting for him to speak.

Draco never said a word. He climbed onto the chair, straddled the shocked raven, and kissed him like he may never get another chance.

It was good, really good. Jade was pretty sure his brain short circuited, though that may have had something to do with the copious amounts of blood currently heading south. For a long moment he could do nothing but respond with equal fervour. After a blissful eternity, Jade finally gather enough of his wits to gently push the blonde away.

Draco was searching Jade's eyes desperately. He did not seem to care for what he found there.

Jade saw the realization and pain enter the other boy's eyes. He grabbed the blonde's wrist before the boy could flee, "Draco stop. I'm sorry, but I can't be what you want, however much my body is screaming yes. I love you, but not like that. Somewhere along the line you became my best-friend, but I can't offer more than that."

Stormy blue eyes narrowed, "There's someone else."

Jade grinned sheepishly, "Sort of."

Draco smirked viciously, "It's Snape isn't it?"

Jade felt his face heat up, "How did you know?"

He sneered, "I'm not stupid. He's the only person you have any time for, besides me. The whole school thinks he only gave you the apprenticeship so he could fuck you. Clearly they were right. Is he any good?"

"Draco that's enough! We're not… I mean… He's never… Oh hell, we're still at the 'does he like me' stage. There is nothing going on. It's the very fact that I can feel so strongly for someone else, anyone else, that means it would be unfair to start a relationship with you. I won't start something knowing that it will probably end badly, not with you. I refuse to risk our friendship like that."

The blonde attempted a smile, "I understand; I'm just a bit bitter about it at the moment. I'm going to get some sleep. I'll see you at breakfast."

"Goodnight. And I really am sorry."

As Draco shut the door behind him, Jade reached for his previously abandoned book but thought better of it. He stood and wandered over to the healing section of the library. Studying healing magic usually helped calm his mind. He selected a book at random and settled into an armchair. He opened the book to the middle section where most texts keep the really interesting tidbits.

The first page he read had his eyes popping out of his skull, and him frantically rereading to make sure it really said what he thought. He then lunged for the dark arts section and pulled out an old dog-eared manuscript that he had discovered just that afternoon. He spent the rest of the night cross-referencing and scribbling down notes. The theory was sound, the idea was brilliant, and what he had in mind would probably buy him a one way ticket to Azkaban. Now if only he had some way to test it…

There it is for better or worse. And no, no matter how long it takes to update, this story has not been abandoned. Cheers!