Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or any of the characters and I'm not making any money from this story. I do own the story line and any original characters involved.
Warnings: seriously AU; some bashings of Albus, Molly, Author, Ron, Hermione, Fudge, and Malfoys; sex scenes; slash; het; many OCs
Author Notes: The story is finished and I will be posting one chapter a day. Here's the next chapter, a bit sooner as a christmas present. Tell me what you think in a review please.
!#$
Two years have passed. Harry is now twenty two years old. He no longer had the permanently messy hair. Instead, it had grown out so it laid neatly, a bit below the shoulder blades, but it didn't give him a feminine look; not at all. He also has finally completely adjusted to life as a muggle. The raven hair still works at the bakery he started at when he was twenty. When he's there, he wears his hair in a ponytail to keep it out of the way. More often than not, he wears a hairnet if he's working with the food. Cory has taken over for his father and Harry's not just the pastry chef there anymore. He is also part owner. Cory had offered it to him when they became closer friends; it also helped take some of the pressure off of him. Harry loved the bakery so much that he couldn't resist the opportunity. They have the most popular bakery in Manhattan; it was so popular, that they had to hire two other pastry chefs to work under Harry in order to take some of his work lord as people from other parts of New York drive 45 minutes to come to their bakery.
Harry also doesn't live with his godfathers anymore. They encouraged him to get his own place in order to have some independence. Harry used part of his inheritance which had been converted into muggle American money, barely making a dent in it, to buy a small townhouse. It's in the same neighborhood as his godfathers' as he wanted to stay close to them and he has dinner with them almost every night. Harry doesn't work on Sundays and devotes that day to spending quality time with them as they all have that day off as well. Without even talking about it, Sunday became their family day. The three of them are still going strong and with the same jobs from two years ago.
Andy is still Harry's best friend, even after two years. Breaking up was the smartest thing they could have done. It essentially protected their relationship and in a way they're stronger than ever.
Although Andy is Harry's best friend as well as the only person in New York that he knows besides his godfathers that know about magic, Cory is a very close second best friend. It definitely helps that the two of them hit it off as well. The three of them can be seen hanging out regularly. Cory also got bonus points for being a very open minded straight man; he actually jokingly flirts with Andy. Unfortunately, that had the slight side effect of making Andy develop a bit of a crush, which he thankfully got over. Cory knows about Andy's lapse in sanity and finds it hilarious because he can't seem to keep a girlfriend, but he attracts guys. Harry doesn't understand why Cory has so much trouble finding a girlfriend. He's not devilishly handsome or gorgeous like Lucas, who Harry still think about from time to time, but he's boyishly cute with the most adorable dimples when he smiles, not to mention a wonderful personality to match the looks. Any girl should be lucky to have his attention.
As Harry had thought, for awhile he kept touch with his friends from the culinary institute, but they slowly dropped out of contact. As for his magical friends, Harry is aware of the fact that his godfathers kept them up to date with his life, even the Weasleys, when he wasn't sure if he was ready to trust them yet. Harry hadn't been ready to talk to them as it was painful knowing that they had magic while he didn't. He had told his godfathers to use magic around him so he could get used to it, but he didn't want to talk to anyone else who had it. It hurt way too much, even though he was ready to accept the consequences of denying a magical contract.
The one thing that Harry missed most about magic was Hedwig. Hedwig was his magical familiar. Without magic, she didn't recognize him anymore. She knew who Harry was of course, but she didn't feel any magic pulling herself to him, which made it hard for her to acknowledge him as she had once done. Although she knew Sirius, Remus, and even Severus on some level, she didn't choose to stay with them so Harry could at least see her, even if she'd never respond to him in a familiar way. Oddly enough, she chose infant Victoire Weasley, Bill and Fleur's daughter, who had been almost one year old at the time of the contract. Hedwig adored her and vice versa. Fleur assured Harry through Sirius as he hadn't been talking to them at the time that they were making sure Hedwig was well taken care off. Although he missed his companion quite a bit, he was happy the snowy owl was making a little girl very happy.
It was just a regular day. There was a rare lull in business. Cory had run out to go to the bank, so Harry was running the store front instead of working with the pastries. He didn't mind though. Harry might have gone to school to be a pastry chef, but he was definitely a people person, so he didn't mind leaving his pastries every now and then. Instead of taking a break during the lull, Harry wrapped up some orders that were scheduled to be picked up a little later today. His back was turned to the door as he packed a Bavarian Cream cake that was to be an anniversary desert, the wife's favorite. The bell chimed, indicating a customer.
Harry turned back to the door, an easy smile on his face, but his breath caught. A tanned man with a hooked nose, dark hair, dark eyes, and round shoulders stood in the doorway. His dark eyes seemed as surprised as he felt. "Harry Potter, is that you?"
Harry vaguely noticed that his accent was almost completely gone. "Viktor, it's been awhile…I suppose." The door opened again as the bell chimed, and Viktor, who was still standing in the doorway, was bumped into.
"Sorry," Viktor's deep voice said as he stepped to the side, his eyes not leaving Harry.
The distracted man smiled. Harry closed his eyes before bestowing a warm smile onto the customer. "Hello Mr. Kaiden. I have your Bavarian cream right here. I was actually just packing it."
"Wonderful, my wife will be thrilled. She always goes on and on about your cakes." He was rung up and paid for the cake, putting two dollars in the tip jar.
"Thank you Mr. Kaiden. I hope you have a good anniversary."
"Thank you Harry. We'll be back soon for my son's birthday cake."
"I'll see you then." With the man gone, Harry was forced to focus on the quidditch star. "So Viktor, what are you doing in America, never mind the muggle world?"
Viktor didn't smile. "I'm here for the world cup. It's Bulgaria versus America this time around."
"Congratulations; I also see your accent has almost completely disappeared."
"Yes, I spent some time abroad in America during breaks from quidditch. I guess it rubbed off on me a bit. I wasn't expecting to see you here. The last time I spoke to Hermione, she said you had skipped out on your responsibilities and had abandoned her and Weasley." Viktor's voice was accusing.
How dare that bitch continue to spread lies about him? Harry's face scrunched up in his rage. "Don't believe everything you hear, especially when it comes from that conniving witch's mouth."
"What are you talking about? Hermione is a wonderful person with a pure heart—"
"who lied to you. Tell me Victor, did she actually tell you what my so-called responsibility was?" Viktor shook his head 'no.' Harry whispered as he didn't need the other workers overhearing him. "It had nothing to do with Voldemort. I killed him like I was expected to. I was being forced to marry Draco stinking Malfoy. I chose to become a muggle instead. As for 'abandoning' her, she and Ron did that when they lied and faked their friendship with me. Hermione was only friends with me to avoid the normal problems that muggle borns have when it comes to getting a job. Ron only wanted to be my friend because it was something to have that his brothers and sister didn't. You shouldn't be so naive Viktor and believe everything you're told. I learned the hard way."
The door chimed; this time it was Cory. "Hey Harry, am I interrupting something?"
"Of course not Cory. Viktor, this is Cory, a good friend and my partner in business. Cory, this is Viktor, an old acquaintance from England."
Cory's eyes lit up. "Really? You never speak about anyone from your home country. I've been wondering about that. It's nice to meet you Viktor."
Viktor nodded slightly, but his eyes were still on Harry, searching for lies, but finding none. "Harry, I'm sorry. I couldn't help but believe her. I may not love her, but I believed her to be a good person who put her friends before everything else. I haven't seen her since Bill and Fleur's wedding and I took her word for everything."
Harry took a deep breath. He had to remind himself that it wasn't Viktor's fault, He was under her spell, figuratively speaking of course, all through my fourth year and Harry knew they kept in touch afterwards. It wasn't like he was able to defend himself when Hermione told him that bunch of crap. "It's okay Viktor; I forgive you. Just don't be so quick to believe everything you hear."
Viktor nodded while Cory's brow was scrunched up. "I'm confused."
"Don't worry Cory. It was just something between us." Harry turned back to Viktor. "Why did you even come here if you didn't expect me to be here?"
"I heard about the desserts here from passing people and was curious."
"Cory?" Cory knew what Harry was asking and nodded. "I'll give you a slice of Oreo double fudge cake, no cost. It's a favorite among our customers." He got a piece from the refrigerator and packaged it up, silently telling Viktor that he wasn't to stay any longer. "I really have to get back to work. Now that Cory's back, I can get back to what I do best, but we should meet up if you have time. I have some questions for you and I'm sure you have some for me."
"How about when you're done with work?"
"I'm supposed to have dinner with my godfathers, but I'm sure they can make room for you. Be here at six thirty. We'll walk over together."
"See you then." He left, the bell chiming as the door swung open and then closed.
!#$
They were silent during the walk. Normally, Harry would have taken a cab because of his godfathers' constant worrying about his safety. With Viktor able to do magic though, he wasn't too concerned. "So, I understand why you're here in America and why you were at the bakery, but why did you even come in the muggle world? You're a pureblood aren't you? I can't imagine you being used to the muggle world and knowing how it works so you won't draw attention to yourself."
"You'd be surprised Harry. When the fans and press gets too much for me, I tend to hide in the muggle world. I get peace and quiet here, and no one chases me or asks if they can have my children. My parents, teammates, and coach know where I am and that all that matters. They understand my need to get away."
"I can understand that need too. If I had to choose one thing that I loved about being a muggle, it's being a normal person who can slip under the radar, the fact that strangers don't know me or know more about my parents than I do. I love the fact that I can blend in. I have my friends, but I know they like me for me and not for doing something I don't even remember doing."
To say that Remus, Sirius, and Severus were shocked to see a recognizable face from the magical world would be an understatement. Although they had kept in contact, they hadn't visited or allowed anyone to visit them, not trusting Dumbledore or the Malfoys and not wanting to take the chance of them finding out about the visits. It was also why the three of them had stayed out of the magical world; Harry wasn't the only reason for that decision. Harry explained the situation and they were more than happy to make room at the dinner table for Viktor, especially since Harry didn't seem to mind, considering his light blush.
Over dinner, Harry got into a heated discussion with Viktor about quidditch. The others were glad to see that he didn't seem bothered by the conversation, as he would never be able to even fly a broom again.
All held their breath though, when Viktor seemingly put his foot in his mouth. "You know, you're the one person I actually really wanted to compete against. During my stay at Hogwarts, I heard about your daring stunts on a broom and how the only time you lost was when you had outside influence. I was hoping to test myself against you, but I guess that can never happen now."
Harry's eyes were sad and Remus ached for Harry, wanting to go to him and comfort him, but Severus stopped him from doing just that. "Besides Hedwig, the one thing I miss the most is flying. Not quidditch necessarily, considering I just fell into the sport, but flying. I never thought I'd get over the fact that I had to give my broom up. I debated keeping it for sentimental reason, but it would have been too painful for me. Although, I still miss it, it's not like I'm missing a part of myself anymore. Two of the people that I would have loved a chance to compete against are you and Charlie Weasley. I guess I'll just have to settle for watching you."
"What?" Sirius questioned, ever so eloquently.
"I love the muggle world, but I'm sick of being afraid of the wizarding world because of certain people. I may not be allowed to live there, but I can still visit like families of halfbloods and muggle borns do. I want to go and watch Viktor at the World Cup…if it's possible to get tickets, that is." Harry added as an afterthought.
Viktor smiled. "Of course it's possible; I can get you the tickets myself, free of charge."
"Sirius? Remus? Severus?" Harry's expression was pleading for an affirmative.
None of them could deny him this. "Yeah, we'll do whatever you want. We just don't want you to have that empty feeling again, watching them do something that you can't anymore."
"I won't. I think I'm finally ready to visit the magical world, after about four years of avoiding it."
!#$
Viktor promised to get the tickets, but meanwhile, Harry convinced him to go to a club with him for some fun since he had already told them that he had some free time on his hands. It wasn't easy to, considering Viktor has never been to one. Harry got him to agree by taunting him about being scared to try something new. Viktor prided himself for being brave and fell for Harry's taunts.
That was why they were now watching a crowded dance floor. Harry was in his standard tank and tight jeans that showed off all of his best assents that he had worn that first time. He had gotten quite comfortable in them and definitely wasn't as risqué as what some of the other guys wore. Viktor couldn't be talked into anything as extreme. He wore loose jeans and a long sleeved shirt that hugged his chests slightly. Harry knew when not to push.
Harry wasn't sure if Andy was there, but he was hoping the two of them would meet. He told Viktor about his squib friend and thought they might get along, although he hoped not too well. He knows his godfathers noticed his looks over dinner, but he wasn't even sure if Viktor would be interested in him, even after admitting he was bisexual.
Suddenly, Harry felt his skin heat up. There was only one person to ever make that happen with him. He looked to his left, and sure enough, Lucas stood there in all of his glory, sky blue eyes glinting with something Harry couldn't describe. The man, with his fans following like puppies, strode over. He glanced at me and smiled warmly, giving me chills. "Harry, haven't seen you in awhile. I assumed you were seeing someone who wasn't fond of this place."
Harry laughed quietly. "Trust me, if I had a boyfriend, I would have met him here. I've just been busy at the bakery. Every week, we seem to have even more business. Viktor here is an old friend. I decided to show him a good time so to speak. Viktor, this is Lucas, Lucas, this is Viktor."
Harry glanced up at Viktor's face, seeing his dark eyes narrow in suspicion, and didn't understand why. Looking at Lucas, Harry saw him giving Viktor a predatory look and his gut twisted. Lucas wanted Viktor, and what Lucas wanted, he got. Harry could deal with it though, knowing it would only be one night.
"May I have a dance Viktor?" Lucas all but purred. Seemingly numb, Viktor nodded. Harry watched as their hips ground together erotically, making Harry harden at the sight. There was no doubt about it, the two were hot together. They were at the same height so it was easy for Lucas to tilt his head and claim Viktor's lips in a bruising kiss and Viktor didn't seem to mind it. Harry knew nobody could resist Lucas, but it didn't make it hurt any less even if he was hard from the sight. Harry had been honest when he said he wouldn't be able to deal with Lucas as a boyfriend, but that didn't stop the feelings. He accepted though that all they would ever be was friends or even just slight acquaintances. With Viktor, he had slight hope, although minimal, that Viktor might be interested in him. It was obvious though that Harry wasn't Viktor's type; completely ignoring the fact that Lucas can make himself anyone's type. Harry turned away from the sight, not wanting to watch.
!#$
Lucas felt a shooting pain where his heart should have been, forcing him to pull away from the lips. He wasn't even sure why he went for Viktor. He usually went for ones of smaller stature, like Harry. It brought out his dominant instinct. For some reason though, Viktor attracted him. He went after Viktor, even after sensing Harry's interest and that wasn't like him. He was quite fond of Harry, more so than any of the other tricks that he had fucked, and had no desire to hurt him. His thoughts of Harry are what reminded him about the shooting pain he felt. Looking to where they left the raven hair, Lucas saw him making his way out of the door and he felt guilt swell up inside him. It was enough to make him step away from Viktor. Lucas freely admitted he was fond of Harry, but he's never felt guilt about anything before, so why now?
Looking into Viktor's eyes, Lucas sensed the confusion and the deep seated lust. He wanted to take Viktor so bad, but his thoughts of Harry wondering the streets alone so late stopped him. "Viktor, Harry's gone and we should find him. New York can be dangerous."
Viktor's eyes flashed as he too looked to the spot where they had left Harry. "Why did he leave?"
"That's my fault, but we have no time to talk. Come on. We need to move."
They pushed through the crowd, trying to hasten to the exit, but people kept stopping them. Lucas was getting fed up, but kept his temper in check. Finally they made it and felt cool air wash over their heated skin. Viktor's eyes showed his frantic worry, and for the first time, Lucas realized that Viktor may have some feelings for Harry as well, and he might be the reason they never get together. Viktor spoke up. "We don't know which way Harry went, so we should split up."
"You're not from around here though. I can't have you getting lost."
"Trust me, I won't have a problem. I'm worried about Harry so don't argue with me about this."
Against his better judgment, Lucas agreed. He started at a run and when he was sure he was in no one's line of sight, he leapt up onto the roof of a building. It would be better to have a bird's-eye view. He was light on his feet as he ran across the rooftops. He halted when he saw a guy flirting with Harry; it was very unwanted by the looks of it. The guy didn't seem to realize that. His feet soundlessly touched the floor. "Fuck off." His deep voice commanded. Harry's eyes showed gratefulness. The guy turned his attention to him, looking him up and down as he licked his lips. Lucas was disgusted. "I'm not interested. Find another target." The man grouchily left after failing to grope Harry, thanks to Lucas' interference.
Harry was fidgeting as Lucas gazed him. "Thanks Lucas, I guess. But you should go find Viktor."
Lucas shook his head 'no.' "We should find Viktor; he went in the other direction looking for you and is quite worried."
"He is?" Harry's eyes lit up with hope.
"Yes, and I'm sorry."
"Whatever for? You didn't do anything, except maybe saved me just now."
Lucas wanted to apologize for almost separating the two…because he did realize that they cared for each other, even if they hadn't figured out the other's feelings as of yet. Instead of spilling his guts about his knowledge, he leaned down to bestow a gentle kiss on Harry's oh-so-tempting lips, his hand massaging the pale cheek. Harry responded, hands gripping the waistband of Lucas' tight trousers, pulling their groins together. He groaned. Harry's lips were so intoxicating; the only other's who ever compared to them was Viktor's. That should have made him stop and think right there, but he didn't bother. He sensed Viktor quickly approaching, and pulled away, not wanting to ruin the possible relationship.
Harry was confused and was about to question Lucas about his behavior when Viktor spotted them. Seeing Harry unharmed and without thinking, Viktor rushed to him, arms squeezing the younger man. "Thank god you're safe. New York is dangerous. What were you thinking going off on your own?" Before Harry could open his mouth to answer, Viktor's lips were crashing against his in heated passion. After initially resisting, Harry began to return the kiss in equal fervor. Hands clutched shirts as both desperately tried to get closer. They acted like they wanted to get in each others' skin. It was passion personified as hips bucked and lips became red and swollen.
Lucas watched from the sidelines, his heart twisting. They did look good together. Viktor had a dark complexion and Harry had a light. They were like yin and yang. There was no place for Lucas in their blossoming relationship and he refused to get in the way. That kiss he had given Harry was the last of its kind. He just wanted one last taste of Harry's lips. Unlike those previous boyfriends of Harry's, he knew Viktor was there to stay and he refused to ruin it.
!#$
Harry eventually managed to pry himself away from Viktor's embracing, need to talk to Lucas. He didn't think Viktor would mind about the topic of conversation; after all, they had kissed at the club. When Harry looked though, Lucas was already gone and there was no sign of him anywhere. Harry vowed to speak to Lucas as soon as possible, but right now, he wanted to feel Viktor's lips on his again.
Author Notes: I've made a new poll, as there were 4 choices way too close to tell. Will you please go and vote again for those of you who have already voted. For those of you who didn't vote in the first poll, please go vote now.
I'm also going to be participating in the Harry het Big Bang as it's moderated by the lovely Kammereon and I want to practice writing a full het story. I know many of you won't be interested, but in a couple of days, Sunday or Monday, I will have a new poll up for pairings. I'll appreciate a vote, even if you won't read the story. There must be some females in the Potter verse that you like. I won't even consider Ginny (hate her) or Luna (love her but can't write her properly). I'll remind you when I'm ready for votes.