A/N: Last chapter – this was only meant to be a quick story. (Then just an epilogue of sorts)
Exchange Student
Al's mum had complained about the state of Al's trousers and he confessed he had been paddling in the stream. She shook her had and moaned too quietly for Al to make out what was being said.
It was situations like this that Al wished he was allowed to do magic outside of school – he would have just cleaned his trousers and dried them and his mother wouldn't be going off on one.
"...not a bloody laundrette service. I do have better things to do." he heard his mum gripe as they reached home.
Harry told Al to go change and stay out of his mothers way for a bit give her a chance to get over her strop.
"I heard that Harry – I am NOT having a strop. You..." Al left and went straight to his room before he witnessed his mum laying into his dad about all the small things that annoy her.
Scorpius sat on his bed, "Think your mum is fed up with me being here? An extra set of clothes to wash and all that." He wondered out loud.
Al frowned and sat next to Scorpius, "No not at all. In fact it's probably been nice having you here as you pick your towel off the bathroom floor when you're done with it, you help take the dirty plates into the kitchen and you take your shoes off without trekking mud through the house. Unlike me, dad, James and Lily. Mum just does this every now and then. Dad usually ships us off to grans and they go out for a romantic meal and spend some much needed time together. They're obviously due a date night or whatever." He didn't want to think about his parents sex lives.
Al grinned and angled his body towards Scorpius, "I'd say we have at least an hour before mum runs out of steam and we get called down for dinner. A whole hour, whatever shall we do to occupy our time?" He asked, leaning in closer.
Scorpius smiled but didn't bother playing along he went straight in for a kiss. Al was completely inexperienced in this area, his history of kissing was limited at best and with girls. Scorpius was the first boy he'd ever kissed. About half an hour later a knock came at Al's door and they broke apart.
"Come in." Al begrudgingly said, feeling a little put out as his and Scorpius' make out session was interrupted.
Lily walked in, Al supposed he should be thankful it was Lily. James wouldn't have bothered knocking and would have barged in and caught them kissing.
"Hi Lily can I help?" He asked kindly.
Her eyes darted from Al, to Scorpius and over their flushed faces. She gave a small smile but didn't comment, "Dad has hidden my phone charger. I think he is hoping my phone battery will die and I won't be able to message Connor. I was wondering if I could use yours, see as you hardly use your phone."
Al shook his head, his dad was being ridiculous. "Sure. I need to look for it, one sec." He started rummaging in the storage boxes he had under his bed.
Lily sat on the edge of Al's bed and smiled at Scorpius, "Which parent is coming to collect you?" Lily asked.
He frowned, "Probably mother. Although it wouldn't surprise me if father came, he is incredibly nosey deep down. Just hides it well. He'll want to use collecting me as an excuse to see what your dad lives like."
Lily grinned, "Like a pig if you were to listen to mums ranting at the moment. Poor dad, just nods and apologises. He has no idea what she's so stressed about really he tunes her out."
"At last." Al exclaimed and handed Lily his charger.
"Mum still going at it then?" He hesitantly asked, he wanted a snack but no way was he venturing into the kitchen and getting caught in the crossfire.
"Yep. I was moaned at about my hair clogging up the shower drain! Like I'm cleaning that out, when she has a wand and can do it in seconds without getting dirty. She expects me to do it with my hand. Gross. Apparently we won't get pocket money anymore unless we do our share of the chores." She said outraged.
Al groaned, "Great. I'm happy to do the washing up, but no way am I doing laundry or anything James related. He's disgusting, I swear his socks have a life of their own."
Lily laughed, "James has to hoover!" both he and Lily laughed.
"I know right. I have to do laundry and you are on bins and washing up and I think we all have a few more chores. Apparently Aunt Hermione helped mum draw up a chore rota. Traitor." Lily didn't mind really she was surprised they had gotten away with doing so little up until now. Always relying on the fact that their dad never wanted them to do chores, something to do with the way he grew up apparently.
She stood and grinned, "Thanks for this," meaning the charger as she held it up, "You can get back to...uh hanging out." She laughed and left.
At dinner everyone was on their best behaviour, no one wanting to set Mrs Weasley off again. She seemed happy enough, Al assumed his dad must have managed to cheer her up.
His dad was a brilliant Auror but when it came to dealing with a teenaged girl and her crush he was useless. Al rolled his eyes when he heard his dad not so subtly ask, "How's your phone Lily? I heard that the batteries on those things run out of charge quite quickly."
She shrugged, "Nope still got life in it. Besides I have a charger don't I?" She remarked.
"Oh I thought you said you couldn't find it." He replied, confused as he knew the charger in question was in his desk draw at work.
"I couldn't but I found another one. Nice try dad." She added the last bit smugly.
He looked torn between admitting he took it and denying everything.
"Besides it's not me you should be worried about." She added without thinking. She grimaced as soon as the words left her mouth and looked down at her plate, not daring to look at Al or Scorpius just in case their dad figured out she was referring to them.
"Whys that? And who should I be worrying about?" He prompted when she wouldn't look at him.
James could sense something big was going to happen if he didn't step in. He had a headache and really didn't want to sit through a family meeting so he said, "Teddy and Vic – you know."
Harry narrowed his eyes but didn't question James or Lily. Lily sighed internally and sent James a quick thank you smile.
After dinner James took Lily and Al to one side and demanded what Lily had meant, as he knew for a fact she wasn't referring to him.
Lily shuffled her feet and Al remained silent.
"Come on, I'm your big brother you HAVE to tell me, Or Shall I go ask dad?" He goaded.
"No don't. I just..." Lily started trying to think of a lie.
Al shook his head and interrupted, "No it's fine Lily no need to lie for me. You're not going to like it. I'm gay okay. There! Don't tell mum or dad please. I want to tell them myself." He pleaded.
James seemed momentarily speechless and a bit stunned by the announcement, "What makes you think I will tell them! I know I can get on your nerves but something that big – shit I wouldn't betray you like that."
Al grinned, and Lily pulled them both into a hug, declaring, "It's not everyday that we're all on the same side and I think that this warrants a family hug."
Ginny walked by and noticed all three of her children smiling and willingly hugging one another. She didn't want to know, it was a good job she wasn't as curious as her husband.
James pulled away and spotted their mum, "Alright mother dearest. Taken a chill pill yet?"
She narrowed her eyes, "I suggest you walk away darling son." She joked.
He laughed, "Okay mother whatever you wish."
She shook her head and hoped whatever the three kids were doing, wouldn't be anything too bad. She suspected it was James or Al who had given Lily an extra charger so they weren't above doing something they probably shouldn't be doing.
Strangely she would miss Scorpius when he returned home. He was polite, wasn't demanding or a fussy eater and was tidy. She wondered if she could convince Malfoy to do a swap, he takes James and she keeps Scorpius. She was only joking, besides James was growing up and fast, knowing James he would want to move out as soon as he was of age and earning money.
Al found Scorpius in the back garden talking with his dad.
"...maybe. I'm sure your dad would support you." Al heard his dad tell Scorpius as he approached them. He wondered what they had been talking about.
"Yes I'm sure he would. I just dislike upsetting him – but moving back...well not back as I've never called England my home, but moving here is something I have my heart set on." He admitted.
He turned and spotted Al walking towards him and smiled.
Al sat the other side of his dad, "Sorry I was talking with Lily and James." He explained his absence.
Harry's brow furrowed slightly, "That can't be good. If you'll excuse me I promised your mother I'd run her a bath." He stood, smiled at the boys and left.
Scorpius moved so he was now next to Al, "Your dad really is a nice guy."
Al knew that, "Sure is – too nice sometimes. You know he really has to learn to say no. Takes on too much work, always helping friends, mum and us. Poor bloke never gets any time for himself but I think that is how he likes it."
Scorpius smiled, he really had grown to like the Potter family – all of them. He was made to feel welcomed and even though it would upset his father he would move to England. He had already been told by numerous Potters and Weasleys that when he does move he was to call on them for anything he needed. Al's gran had even offered to help cook him meals.
He only had two year's of schooling left, he supposed he would maybe stay with his parents for a bit after graduation but he would hopefully be back permanently in two years. He looked at Al and knew it would be difficult. Would Al even wait for him? Were they even an item? He really didn't want to ask and give them a reality check – it was nice just enjoying each other and forgetting that they would soon be in different countries.
"Sooooooooooo James knows I'm gay now. I think I'll tell my parents soon, maybe wait until you're gone get you out of the inevitable aftermath. It won't take long for mum to ask if you and I...you know. It wouldn't even cross dad's mind. Best you're not here just in case mum thinks you led me astray." He laughed.
Scorpius smiled, "I'm pretty sure she knows, mothers intuition and all that. Beside, like I already told you you need to find a better hiding place for your gay porn." He smirked.
Al blushed, "I've hidden it somewhere else."
Scorpius really enjoyed seeing Al blush, but he couldn't kiss his cute face, they were outside and anyone could see.
"Glad to hear. I only have a few days left – I'm going to..." Scorpius started but Al interrupted him.
He put his index finger over Scorpius' lips, "Shh Ditto but let's not voice it out loud – that will make it seem even more horrid than it does in my head. Let's leave this conversation for your last day. No. Not the last day, your last five mins." He removed his finger and smiled sadly.
Typical really that the one guy Al had crushed on and by some miracle liked him back was leaving soon.
"Do you want to go chill in my room?" Al asked his eyes sparkling.
"Sure." Scorpius answered and followed Al. He wasn't adverse to more kissing. He knew the more he kissed Al the harder it would be to say goodbye, but being around Al for four days and not kissing him seemed wrong.
Al really wished his bedroom door had a lock, he couldn't wait until he could do magic outside of school then he would lock it with magic. The reason for wishing for a lock was due to James once again walking in without knocking and uninvited. Luckily he and Scorpius had yet to get to the heavy kissing, just low level kissing.
James grinned, "Alright love-birds."
Al rolled his eyes, although James was teasing he was actually handling the whole situation well. Al had pegged James as being one of his family who would react badly to him being gay, let alone walking in on him kissing a Malfoy.
"What do you want?" Al asked, trying not to blush. After all he had caught James and Zara kissing plenty of times.
"No need to get like that." He turned to Scorpius, "Your dad has firecalled, he's in dad's fireplace in the study." James grinned, "Um you may want to run a comb through your hair." He chuckled and left.
Scorpius ran his fingers through it and Al gave him the thumbs up. They both walked to the study. Scorpius and Al paused upon seeing Harry and Draco having a normal conversation.
"I see Scorpius is here now. Nice talking with you." Harry stood and guided Al out of the room to give Scorpius and his dad some privacy.
Harry nudged Al's shoulder, "Why so glum?"
"Nothing! Can I get a lock for my room? Like a massive bolt that I can put on the inside." He complained.
Harry shook his head, "No way. Besides your mother and I can do magic so it would be pretty useless. And before you say it is to keep James out, he can do magic too soon he's seventeen next week."
Al groaned, "I forgot. He's so inconsiderate."
Harry didn't want to know what Al wanted to keep private. He was aware what boys get up to when on their own, he had been a teenaged boy once too.
"With any luck he'll be too busy apperating to Zara's to bother you." Harry cheerfully added.
Al grinned, but soon stopped, what was the point in having privacy he would have no Scorpius to kiss anyway.
"Life sucks." He whined in true teenager fashion.
"Yeah you're life is a bitch compared to mine at your age." He teased.
"Shut up dad." Al said humorlessly.
Scorpius informed Al that apparently it was his father that would to be collecting him. Scorpius said his dad was just being nosy.
OoOoOoO
A couple of days spent hanging out in muggle London and getting acquainted with Scorpius' mouth and Al was really dreading the day after tomorrow when Mr Malfoy was to arrive and collect his son.
He knew many people would call Al pathetic for falling so hard and fast for Scorpius. After all it had only been two weeks, and less time than that actually kissing. Scorpius was intoxicating, he made Al feel alive and awake, this thing with Scorpius put a smile on his face and a spring in his step. Al knew it was cliché but that was how it was.
He didn't want to come across obsessive – for all he knew this was just a bit of fun for Scorpius and as soon as he returned to France Al would be forgotten. Al desperately wanted to ask if they were an item? If so were they going to try the whole long distance thing? They could write, and visit one another in the holidays – they had two years. That wasn't long – right? Al was sure two years in a long distance relationship would feel like an eternity. Besides Scorpius may not even want that.
Al's head hurt from too much worrying and thinking. He and Scorpius were led on Al's bed side by side, legs entangled. Scorpius had fallen asleep and Al was just quietly obsessing over the moment he would have to say goodbye to him.
Al very lightly ran his thumb across Scorpius' sharp cheekbone and whispered, "What am I going to do? I don't want to let you go." He sighed and closed his eyes too, deciding to have a nap and hope he woke in a better mood.
Harry had taken the next two days off to help with the arrangements for Scorpius' farewell party and to just spent time with their guest. He was wondering if Malfoy- no Draco he supposed. He was wondering if Draco was adverse to any of the food on the menu so he went in search of Scorpius to ask if he knew his fathers dislikes.
He knocked lightly on Al's door, he didn't hear a response but opened the door slightly and poked his head into the room. He wouldn't walk in uninvited as he knew James does that and it really bothers Al. What he saw had the question about Draco's eating habits freeze on his lips. He stared speechless at Al's bed. There was no mistaking what he saw, no interrupting it the wrong way. His son was stretched out on his bed, entangled with Scorpius. Both were asleep, and both looked peaceful and happy.
Harry quietly shut the door and returned to the kitchen, he would ask Scorpius later about the menu, for now he'd let them sleep. He sat at the kitchen table and on autopilot took a sip of his tea. He didn't really know what thought process or emotion to decipher first. The most prominent one wasn't even about the fact that his son was gay. Nope his brain unhelpfully kept thinking about one black head of hair and one blond head of hair on the same pillow. In his mind he couldn't even see faces clearly, just two faces obscured by hair and together. It seemed right somehow and he wasn't sure if he was even referring to Al and Scorpius anymore.
The shock of walking in and seeing his son so intimately entwined with Scorpius must have muddled his brain. He wasn't thinking straight – no pun intended. Harry ran his hands over his face, he could admit that it was the way that he had found them that had him so unsettled. If he had intruded on them kissing then he could put it down to experimentation, teenage hormones – whatever. But no they were intimate on a whole different level, falling asleep like that with someone was more that just a passing thing. He wasn't against it – no not at all. It just shocked him was all.
He had read in one of Ginny's magazines once that a couples sleeping positions said a lot about their relationship. He laughed about it when he had read it, telling Ginny they had been in a relationship for a long time and they were over the honeymoon phase and it didn't matter if they slept with their backs to one another – it didn't mean they didn't love each other.
But giving that magazine article more thought now, Harry concluded that he and Ginny never really slept as closely entwined as Al and Scorpius. Ginny would go to bed before him for a start, he would try and avoid going to bed to escape the nightmares. He would climb into bed quietly and sleep on his back whilst Ginny slept on her side facing away from him. He never questioned it, after all it was about getting the best nights sleep. He thought it would be nice to fall asleep and wake up with someone – no not someone with Ginny the way that his son was currently asleep.
He must have been pondering for a long time as Al and Scorpius came into the kitchen. Harry was lost to his thoughts so he didn't even have time to think about the awkwardness of knowing but Al not knowing he knew.
"Alright dad. Any food going?" Al asked.
Harry blinked then after a delay answered, "Sure. Um try the pantry. I think your mum made sandwiches and put them under a preservation charm." He offered.
Scorpius sat at the table across from Harry and Harry noticed one side of his face was slightly red from sleeping on it.
Scorpius greeted Harry and Harry asked about Draco's dislikes of food, showing him a copy of the menu and asking him to point out anything he knew his father wouldn't like.
Scorpius scanned the menu, "Seems good to me. Father is lactose intolerant though." He pointed out.
Harry's eyebrows rose, "Oh. Come to think about it he never had cereal for breakfast at Hogwarts, and he didn't take milk in his coffee."
Scorpius smirked, "You seem to remember a lot about my fathers eating habits."
Harry shrugged, "Weird the things you remember from school. Ask me about astronomy and I've completely forgotten all that I learnt, but Draco Malfoy's breakfast routine I have it down." He joked.
Al joined them with a plate of sandwiches, "So your dad can't have any dairy products at all?" Al asked, before taking a large bite of his lunch.
Scorpius picked up a sandwich and placed it in front of him, "Father isn't allergic to dairy. If you're allergic to something, even a tiny particle can be enough to trigger a reaction, while most people with lactose intolerance can still consume small amounts of lactose without experiencing any problems. However he does tend to avoid it to be safe."
Al hummed in answer, "Interesting. Can you eat dairy?"
Scorpius shook his head, "Blimey Al think about it. I've had cereal, milk in my hot drinks and Merlin knows how much cheese since I've been staying with you. So no I'm not lactose intolerant." Scorpius chuckled before biting into his own lunch.
Looking at the two boys Harry wasn't sure if he should mention what he witnessed. Scorpius was going home the day after tomorrow. Harry also wanted to give Al the chance to tell them he was gay when he was ready.
Harry never used to care what Draco Malfoy thought of him, but he wanted Scorpius' farewell party to be a success and for that to happen Draco had to be impressed.
"What are you boys doing this afternoon?" Harry asked after a long silence.
"Was going to see if James wanted to play quidditch but he's gone to terrorise Zara. Lily is meeting up with some friends and going shopping. Mum is stressing about a news article deadline and not sure about all the cousins." He rattled off.
Harry suspected that the group of friends that Lily was meeting up with included Conner but he chose to let it slide for now. It wasn't unusual for James to be at the Zabini residence with his girlfriend Zara. When Harry asked him why Zara doesn't come over here more, James replied that the Zabini residence was much cooler and her parents were rarely home. Again Harry chose to think the best of his children and hope that James was being sensible. As for Ginny she had a much bigger workload now that Lily had been at Hogwarts for some time.
"Right. So you want to help me get the house ready for the farewell party tomorrow?" Harry asked even though he was sure that the answer would be no.
Al grimaced, "No thanks dad. Scorpius only has a short time left, I want to...um..." He was going to say not waste his remaining time he had with him, but then his dad would get suspicious.
"...Show Scorpius um..."
Harry grinned, "Sure Al. You go show Scorpius whatever it is." He tried not to think about it, he was sure Al didn't intend for it to be anything dirty he was just flustered.
Scorpius laughed, "I think Al said he was going to show me his guitar and play for me." Scorpius coolly answered.
Al sighed, "Yes! Yes that's it – show Scorpius my guitar. Wait what?" he said turning to Scorpius. In his letters he had told Scorpius about him playing and singing but he was not confident enough to actually play for Scorpius.
Harry shook his head slightly, now he knew about their relationship he could see it was obvious. The way they acted around each other, the blushes (Mainly Al) and the lingering looks.
Scorpius looked directly at Al, "Please play for me."
Harry would have had to been deaf not to notice the seductive tone of Scorpius' voice.
Al blushed and looked at the plate of sandwiches, "I'm not very good. Trust me you wouldn't want to hear me play."
Scorpius rolled his eyes, "Let me be the judge of your skills will you."
Harry could see Al was struggling, Al never played for anyone – not the family not his friends no one. Harry had only heard him if he happened to be playing when he thought no one was listening or home. Harry had come home from work early on a few occasions and heard Al playing guitar and singing in his bedroom. He was good, better than good but Al didn't need his dad pushing him right now.
Al looked up and met Scorpius' eye, they shared a moment that Harry felt guilty about witnessing and Al smiled, "Okay. But let me grab my guitar and we can go for a walk somewhere and I can play in private."
Scorpius smiled a genuine proud smile, "I'd love that."
Harry coughed, "Maybe you should go visit your gran at The Burrow and get her to pack you a picnic. Then you can go back to that stream and play there. Its private and secluded. You're not going to find somewhere like that in London really." Harry suggested.
Al had forgotten his dad was their, what with the intense staring into Scorpius' eyes. He knew he must be blushing again when he answered, "Thanks dad. I think that is a great idea."
They floo'ed to The Burrow and spent half an hour with Al's gran, then they took the picnic down to the stream. Al was nervous about playing for Scorpius, yet the same time he wanted to share this part of him with Scorpius.
They reached the same spot as the previous visit to the stream. Scorpius set the blanket up but left the food in the hamper. Al settled on the blanket with his guitar, as Scorpius sat opposite. It was daunting, not only was he playing the guitar for the first time in front of someone, but that someone was Scorpius.
"Any requests?" Al managed to ask.
Scorpius shrugged, "Not really, play what will make you comfortable. You don't have to sing immediately, you can just play if you wish." He soothingly answered. Smiling at Al hoping he would relax.
Al took a few steadying breaths, then looked down at the guitar – he couldn't meet Scorpius' eyes just yet. He began to play a song by The Beatles – cliché but they really were an inspiration for Al and he never really cared that they were in the charts before he was even born.
At first he just played the guitar, but by the second song he had looked up and could see Scorpius was liking it. Scorpius had moved to lay on his back and look up at the sky, his hands behind his head and ankles crossed.
Al smiled and began to sing – Scorpius was startled at first, as he wasn't expecting Al to suddenly start singing. But he soon settled back down and closed his eyes, letting Al's unique voice wash over him. He sounded really good and Scorpius hoped he would get confident enough to maybe show people his talent. Al's voice was comforting, intoxicating and Scorpius could fill his skin prickling – his attraction for Al increased immensely after watching him play and hearing him sing.
Al stopped and put his guitar to one side, Scorpius sat and walked on his knees over to Al.
"Amazing – truly amazing. I'm not trying to blow smoke up your ass, you have a gift. You really should consider sharing that with the public. If you don't want people you know to know, then why don't you try and get some gigs in muggle places – or busking. Just to get your confidence up, and get experience." He suggested.
Al shrugged, "Maybe after school." He then kissed Scorpius thanking him for being a great listener.
By the time the boys returned home it was gone 7pm, and they looked so peaceful and happy. Harry greeted them and told them that James was still out, Lily and Conner were in the living room and Ginny was at the office, writing a quick article on a quidditch scandal she discovered today.
Al was surprised, "You let Conner come over and left him alone with Lily?"
Harry smiled, "Oh Conner and I had a little chat. He knows I could make him disappear and get away with it."
Al laughed, "Dad this isn't some Mafia film. Conner fell for it, what an idiot."
Harry grinned, "I know. But he is sitting on the chair away from Lily on the sofa and hasn't dared touch her since I had that little chat, so as long as he is scared of me – I think I can deal with them."
Al snorted, "Don't go frightening off any of my b-partners." Al quickly corrected.
Harry pretended not to notice the slip up, "You're a sixteen year old boy, I'm sure you can take care of yourself."
Al rolled his eyes, "Lily can probably take care of herself better than James and I can of ourselves. Besides she has already told James she knows the perfect way to make a man back off – a swift kick to the valuables."
Harry smiled, "That's my girl." They all walked into the living room and could see Lily was sulking.
"Thanks a lot dad. Conner won't even sit next to me now." She grumbled.
Harry played innocent and denied everything. Conner made his excuses and went home. Lily showed him out and didn't return for a long time.
When she did return she smirked at her dad, "You know daddy you should never tell me not to do something, because it only makes me want that thing more. I talked Conner around and we just shared a goodnight kiss." She then left to go to her room.
"Too much like her mother I think." Harry finally said.
Al laughed, "Like you and mum, stubborn, challenging, opinionated – demanding – okay maybe more like mum but still."
Harry frowned, "I've been planning this farewell party all day – your mother has gone AWOL and I could use your help." He pleaded.
Al had been avoiding doing anything party related as it reminded him that Scorpius was leaving soon – too soon.
"Fine, but don't make a big deal out of it yeah." He relented.
Scorpius laughed, "I can't wait. Father in a house full of Weasleys, Potter and just generally happy people."
"He's not that bad is he?" Harry asked.
"Of course not, not when you know him. Besides he doesn't really mean half of his sarcastic remarks – it's just him. I find it funny and he can get creative with his complaints, remarks or insults." Scorpius sounded happy, he really missed his father.
"Be great to see him actually." He admitted. Al squeezed his arm and they shared a look.
Harry couldn't believe no one noticed – but then again James and Lily may already know it wouldn't surprise him. Ginny was far to busy with work, socialising with work friends, going to games and generally avoid Harry to even notice who her son was crushing on. Harry sighed, maybe it was time he faced up to a few home truths.
Al and Scorpius helped Harry for about an hour, then the snuck away when Ginny returned home and Harry was distracted.
Once in Al's room Al wasted no time, he began kissing Scorpius feverishly – knowing his remaining time with him was getting less each minute.
"Sleep in my bed tonight." Al proclaimed.
Scorpius sat up leaning on his elbows, "Of course – but what about your parents?"
Al shrugged, "Fuck them. No I didn't mean that – I mean this is your last night alone with me. Tomorrow it's your party and then you're staying with you father before returning to France the next day."
Scorpius really didn't like the reminder that he and Al would soon be parted, "I will, just...lets not talk about me leaving."
Al nodded and returned to kissing Scorpius. It was getting late, Al made sure he said goodnight to his parents so they hopefully wouldn't disturb him later tonight. He closed his bedroom door, stripped to his boxers and climbed into his bed to join Scorpius.
He hadn't invited Scorpius into his bed for anything sexual, he just wanted him close, to feel his warmth and just cling to him while he could.
They soon fell asleep and Al didn't wake again until very early morning, his glow in the dark clock said 2:34am. He watched Scorpius for a few moments, and jumped when he heard, "Go to sleep Al – it's late or early or whatever."
Al chuckled and kissed Scorpius' shoulder, "Too much on my mind to sleep." He answered.
Scorpius opened his eyes, "Hey, stop thinking about the moment I leave." He reached out and started running his fingers through Al's hair above his ear, "Hey...please Al...you look so sad."
Al smiled, "I can't help it."
Scorpius kissed him softly, and continued to kiss him until they both forgot what they were worrying about.
So far they had only kissed and groped each other – but never had they touched one another sexually. Scorpius shifted closer so his pelvis pushed up against Al's pelvis. He put one hand on Al's hip and pushed him forwards. Both gasping into each others mouths as they felt friction as their erections rubbed against the others.
Their kissing became hotter, firmer and with such need behind them – they both clearly wanted more.
Al had never felt so aroused, it was exhilarating and he just wanted Scorpius but he didn't want to rush things he wanted to kiss him all night. Kissing Scorpius was turning him on, he touched as much as he could from his position on his side facing Scorpius. Soon he needed more, he caressed down Scorpius abdomen, his fingers moving under the waistband of Scorpius' underwear.
He slowed his movements giving Scorpius time to protest, but Scorpius nibbled on Al's earlobe and whispered, "Go on."
Al smiled and put his whole hand down the front of his boxers, gripping onto Scorpius. Scorpius bucked his hips and moaned. Al didn't think he had ever heard such a delectable sound. Al had no idea what he was doing, but he just went with his instincts. He knew what he liked when pleasuring himself and he could tell what Scorpius liked by gauging his reactions.
"...boxers in the way." Al said breathlessly, voice thick with desire.
Scorpius moved to lay on his back, he arched his bum off the bed and pulled his boxers down and kicking them out the way. They were still under the duvet, although he was now completely naked – Al couldn't see him.
Al copied Scorpius and removed his own underwear, he felt like such an armature, nervous and slightly awkward. However he mostly felt aroused and really wanted to not be embarrassed about this and just enjoy whatever was about to happen.
Scorpius turned on his side, and began caressing Al, moving up and down his shaft slowly but firmly. Al moaned and captured Scorpius' lips in a clumsy kiss.
"Can I take this fucking duvet off? – I'm hot." Scorpius complained.
Al chuckled, and answered, "Thought you'd never ask."
Scorpius sat up and grabbed the duvet and chucked it onto the floor. Turning around he could see Al in all his naked glory – Al looked unsure about how to position himself under Scorpius' scrutiny – but he needn't worry. He was sexy and inviting and Scorpius was extremely turned on.
He ran his left hand up Al's inner thigh as he moved in to kiss Al. Kissing one another helped them relax and caused them to become lost in the moment. They were both led on their sides facing one another. Kissing and touching, both stroking the other into a frenzy. It didn't last long and it wasn't a flawless encounter but to them it was glorious.
After they had came, they moved closer to cuddle and kiss.
"I'm cold now!" Scorpius complained.
Al laughed and climbed off the bed. He handed Scorpius the box of tissues so he could clean himself. Then he did the same, pulling his boxers and PJ's on
Scorpius arched an eyebrow at him, "Don't worry I'm taking it all off again when I get back. I'm just going to the loo and then getting us a drink. I'll be back in a bit." Al explained.
Thankfully Al didn't run into anyone else, he knew it was still early – around 3am. He returned and could see that Scorpius had put his boxers on but nothing else, and he had also put the duvet back on the bed. Al handed him a bottle of water and stripped to his boxers, climbing in the bed to join Scorpius.
Al kissed him briefly, "Night."
"Goodnight." Scorpius said around a smile, they settled back down, limbs tangled and soon fell asleep.
Scorpius' eye flew open and he quickly jumped out of Al's bed and scrambled under his own covers. Al looked at him sleepily and he whispered, "I heard my father. Think they're coming up." They both led back down and pretended to be asleep.
A few moments later there was a knock and the door was pushed up slightly.
"Al...you awake?" Harry called.
Then a clear sharp voice, "Scorpius never sleeps in late – what have you done to him Potter."
"The boys were probably up late chatting." Harry replied.
Scorpius called out, "Morning father. If I was asleep I'm not anymore. Where's my car?"
Draco laughed and came the rest of the way into the room, "Morning son. It's 10:30am hardly early. As for your car it's safe, I sold it to..."
Scorpius sat bolt upright, "What!"
Draco eyed Scorpius' bare torso but didn't comment but you could tell he was wondering why Scorpius wasn't covered.
"I said I sold it." He answered, but his voice sounded amused.
Al had also sat up, Scorpius glanced at him and had to bit the inside of his cheek to stop the laughter. Al had awful bed hair, red wrinkles down one side of his face and an adorable sleepy confused face expression.
Scorpius returned his gaze to his father and Mr Potter, "Who did you sell it to?" He demanded.
Draco smirked, "I'll answer your questions once you are showered and dressed." He then turned walked into Harry and muttered under his breath, leaving Al's room.
Mr Potter smiled, "Morning boys. Sorry I tried to stop him, I said I was letting you sleep in, but he insisted on waking you." He then left to go find Draco.
Scorpius sighed, "My father knows."
Al still half asleep wasn't sure what he was on about, "Huh?"
Scorpius stood closed the bedroom door and then walked over to Al's bed bending down to give him a quick kiss. "My father has figured out something is going on between us – I can tell."
He stood and grabbed his dressing gown and toiletries, "I'm going for a shower."
Scorpius returned refreshed, clean and teeth brushed. He looked over at Al and noted the git had gone back to sleep. He dressed quickly, fully aware that his father was downstairs waiting – not to mention that he was missing out on all his dad funny remarks.
He walked over to Al and shook him, "Get up, get dressed. I'll see you downstairs." Then he kissed his cheek before leaving.
Harry was relieved when Scorpius came into the kitchen, "No Al?"
Scorpius shook his head, "Nope lazy sod went back to sleep."
Harry tutted and said he was going to make sure he got up, leaving Scorpius alone with his father. Scorpius hugged him briefly, then he poured himself a fresh orange juice and sat down.
"How long have you been sharing Albus' bed?" His father cut straight to the point.
Scorpius knew there was no point denying it, "I only slept in his bed last night, for the first time. How did you know?" He was intrigued.
"His pillow is covered in blond hair. He has finger marks on his arm and a sizeable love bite on his neck – I'd be stupid not to know, or Harry seeing as he has no clue." He remarked.
Scorpius frowned, "Well we were sleeping, I only woke up as I heard you as you were coming up the stairs. I didn't have time to check for random hairs on Al's pillow. You're not mad?"
"No why would I be. I think maybe it wasn't the wisest thing letting you share a room, but I assume the Potter's do not know that you and Al are interested in men let alone each other." He never treated Scorpius like a kid, well unless they were playing pranks and joking. However where it counted he treated him like an adult, unless Scorpius gave him reason to treat him like a child.
Scorpius really had missed his father, his father just got him. They weren't just father and son, they were friends.
"When I first arrived no one knew about Al. His sister figured it out and then James soon found out – but that's it. We didn't actually...well not get together as I'm not sure what we are...but we didn't start whatever this is straight away." He was always honest with his father if he asked him a question.
Draco appreciated his sons honesty, he couldn't begin to vocalise how much he appreciated their relationship, it's honesty, the laughs and such love. He loved his own father but wouldn't dare go to him to discuss his relationships or feelings. He was immensely grateful that he had done something right and Scorpius was open with him.
He knew he wasn't completely open and honest with Scorpius, but some things were difficult to discuss with his son – mainly his relationship with his wife. Draco didn't want Scorpius to feel like he had to take sides or be stuck in the middle. For as long as he could remember he tried to keep Scorpius and his wife happy and not let on to Scorpius about the lack of love between his parents.
"Dare I ask what you were doing in his bed last night?" He ventured to ask, unsure if he needed to have a talk with Scorpius.
Scorpius grimaced, "Ew no don't ask. Don't worry I'm not having sex." He was mortified.
Draco laughed, "So you can get embarrassed."
Harry returned, "Sorry about that. Al was asleep. I dragged him out of bed and pushed him towards the shower."
Harry sat opposite Draco and poured himself a hot drink, "That boy is like Inferi when he's just woken up."
Draco shook his head, Scorpius could tell it was in an amused manor, "That joke was in poor taste Potter."
Harry smiled, "You of all people should know I have no taste – or so you always told me. Besides I've seen the horrible things and I think I am educated enough to know that Al is like them when half asleep." He declared.
Scorpius gaped at Harry, "Wow you've really seen Inferi. Shit, that's..."
Harry laughed, "Yep. Shit pretty much sums it up." He was casual and seemed comfortable enough discussing it, after all he was the one to bring it up.
Scorpius shuddered, "You should make muggle horror movies – you'd make a killing – no pun intended."
Draco laughed along with Harry. "I'm not cut out to be a director, maybe your father he seems to excel at bossing people around." Again Harry was teasing.
Draco arched an eyebrow, "Some people need direction. I'm sure without your wife you wouldn't even be a functional adult."
Harry rolled his eyes, "For your information Ginny is hardly home – I am capable of looking after myself."
Al shuffled in and Scorpius could see the sizeable lobe bite on Al's neck now. He couldn't do magic so he couldn't spell it away and it was far too hot to wear a scarf or jumper. Scorpius smiled at him, "You're tired today Al, sleep ok?" He cheekily asked.
He grumbled and mumbled something about bacon sandwiches, "Food. Need food."
"What a great conversationalist your son is." Draco remarked.
Harry shrugged, "What can I say the boy needs sleep and food to function."
Harry stood and started making Al's sandwich, making enough for all of them. It was weird picturing Draco eating something as simple as a bacon sandwich, but he guessed he must eat them as he didn't object to one when Harry offered.
Al rubbed his neck and Scorpius smiled, "Sore neck?"
"What? No." He said glaring at Scorpius willing him to shut the fuck up.
Scorpius was only teasing Al, he knew Harry was busy the other end of the kitchen and his own father knew about him and Al. Although Al didn't know that. Scorpius liked winding people up in general – something him and his father has in common.
Draco leaned in towards Al, "Looks bruised maybe we should get your father to have a look at it."
Al looked panicked, "No..no it's fine. It's nothing."
Draco chuckled and discreetly cast a spell to remove the love bite. "There gone. So what girl managed to mark you?" He asked around a smile.
Scorpius grumbled, "Father stop."
Al blushed, "Um..."
Harry returned and placed a platter of bacon sandwiches in the centre of the table. He took one look at Al and could see he was embarrassed and nervous, Harry assumed it was because of Draco's presence.
To help Al out Harry asked, "So who did you sale Scorpius' car to?"
Al sent his dad a small smile and Scorpius leant forwards, "Please tell me it isn't true."
Draco laughed, "Of course it isn't true. I wouldn't dare sell that car – it's like a child to me."
Scorpius huffed, "Wanker."
"Brat." Draco retorted playfully.
Harry ate in silence, surprised at this side of Draco. Scorpius had told him stories of pranks and a sense of humour but witnessing Draco being playful with his son made him happy.
Al was out of sorts, being around Mr Malfoy was unnerving.
"Uh where is everyone?" Usually once the smell of bacon filled the air the kitchen suddenly became full of Potters.
"Well your mother is at the office." Harry refrained from adding again.
"James stayed over at Zara's last night and is yet to return. Lily has decided to see if she can turn my hair grey before returning to school by going out with Conner. I asked where she was going, she said it was none of my business and slammed the door on her way out." He informed Al.
Al snorted, "Lily is only dating him to annoy you. She's going through a rebellious phase I think. James will be back to say goodbye to Scor won't he?" Al asked.
"Scorpius." Draco corrected looking at Al.
"Um sorry that's what I meant, he'll be here to say goodbye to Scorpius?"
Harry glanced at Draco quickly then returned to looking at Al, "He said he would so I assume so. Zara is probably trying to drag his arse out of bed as we speak."
"Lazy kids you have – sleeping in." Draco remarked, to anyone but Scorpius it sounded rude, but Scorpius knew his father – he was winding Mr Potter up.
However Harry didn't get annoyed, "You're right."
Al asked what was happening between now and the party. He didn't want to abandon Mr Malfoy, but he didn't really fancy hanging out with Scorpius and their dads. He wanted Scorpius all to himself.
Draco glanced at his son, "Maybe Harry and I can get the place ready for this evening, while you and Scorpius go run some errands?"
Scorpius sent him a grateful smile and Harry added, "Sounds like a plan. You can go to the grocery store and get all the things on this list. Then come home and drop the bits off before flooing to The Burrow to pick up the party food. As long as you're back by 6pm to get ready. The party starts at 7pm."
Al stood took the list off the table and then held his hand out, "Money please."
Harry handed him some money and told him to go before he changed his mind. Scorpius also stood said bye to his father and Mr Potter. Following Al out the front door.
Harry looked around his now empty kitchen bar Draco, "Right sooooooo..."
Draco arched an eyebrow, and they proceed to work together organising and setting up for Scorpius' farewell party. They discovered they actually got on and enjoyed each others company without having to try too hard. The boys had returned briefly to drop the groceries off and then head out to The Burrow to collect the food, with a detour to the stream for an hour or so alone.
After a few hours of working along slide Draco with no issues Harry randomly asked, "How do you and your wife sleep?"
Draco seemed to find when he and Potter were alone he was relaxed, open and honest. So when Potter asked him a too personal question, instead of lying or telling him to shove off he replied, "In separate beds."
Harry appeared shocked by the utter honesty, "Oh...sorry I asked."
Draco and Harry moved to sit at the kitchen table and got a hot drink, "No need to apologise. Why ask?"
Harry slumped slightly, "Just trying to work out if my marriage is normal. You're the last person I thought I could talk to about this, but I guess it is because you are an outsider and can give genuine advice."
Draco would never have imagined he would be on good terms with Harry, it seemed they had changed since they last crossed paths. An unspeakable truce had occurred and maybe because they knew that Draco would be returning to France, it didn't matter what they discussed it would stay between them.
"How do you sleep then?" He asked intrigued.
Harry looked at Draco a bit glum, "Away from each other, backs facing – not connected or touching at all. In fact Ginny sometimes goes to bed before me, and when I retire to bed she moves from her back to her side facing away as soon as I get into bed." He admitted. Maybe he was reading too much into it.
"It could mean nothing or it could mean everything. You need to work out which." Draco offered as advice.
Harry sighed, "I guess. I'm frightened to look into it too much, for fear of what I might find. I rather like my little bubble and hate change."
Draco reached out and squeezed his shoulder, "Trust me you're not the only one. However I have been here since 10am and I have yet to see a glimpse of..Ginny. I get the impression this is a common occurrence."
Harry nodded, "Yeah it is, but usually I am at work and the kids at school so it isn't as noticeable."
"As they say ignorance is bliss. Not knowing something is often far more comfortable than knowing it." Draco said seriously.
Harry knew deep down that his marriage was in trouble, and he had a feeling Ginny knew it too. He put his elbow on the table and placed his head in his hand – brooding.
"You know facts do not cease to exist just because they are ignored." He wisely said.
Harry snorted, "Do you take your own advice?" Harry countered.
"To some extent – however I feel maybe I need to re-evaluate my situation." He replied.
They couldn't talk anymore as James walked in with Zara. Zara seemed surprised and exclaimed, "Oh hello Mr Malfoy."
Draco smiled, "Zara."
James grinned at his blushing girlfriend, "Aw how cute my girlfriend has a crush on Mr Malfoy." He announced in a sing song voice.
She elbowed him in the side, "I do not!"
"The lady doth protest too much, methinks." He exclaimed.
She glared at him, "Shakespeare, really James?" She shook her head and stormed out of the kitchen.
James laughed, "Merlin I love that girl. I better go kiss and make up." He nodded to the two adults and left calling to Zara, "The course of true love never did run smooth."
Harry laughed, "Berk."
Draco smiled, "Indeed. Hamlet and A Midsummer Night's Dream."
Harry was smiling again, James always cheered him up. "Yes James studied Shakespeare as he though he could woe ladies with it. I take it you know Zara?"
Draco grinned, "Of course, she is Blaise's daughter after all and I am her godfather. I only see them on major holidays. Blaise visits us in France occasionally."
Harry supposed that made sense they were dorm mates and friends in School. Draco continued, "Also Blaise is Godfather and Pansy is his godmother."
Harry wondered if Scorpius would live with Blaise when he returned to England – from what James had said the Zabini residence was certainly large enough. Then he remember Malfoy Manor and started thinking about Scorpius roaming around there alone and shuddered.
Draco mistook Harry's shudder, "Pansy isn't that bad, she's wonderful really."
Harry grinned, "I'm sure she's a delight."
Scorpius and Al returned, "Gran said she shrunk everything so we could transport it easier." He plonked a few small containers in front of Harry.
"Have fun dad." He went to leave.
"Uh why do you have grass stains on your knees?" Harry asked before he could think about it. Then he blushed and rushed, "Never mind – go clean up."
Scorpius chuckled, "Al fell down a grass embankment."
Al glared at him, "You pushed me down!"
Harry laughed, "Really?"
Al crossed his arms, "Really!"
Scorpius grinned, "I warned you Potter – I don't do empty threats."
Al huffed, "Twat." He was smiling though and they left the kitchen together laughing.
Draco watched them leave, "I think Scorpius will miss Al immensely."
Harry agreed and said at least they would be returning to school, so the boys would have a distraction.
Ginny then stepped out of the fire and Harry said, "Blimey it's like a bus stop in here. No one around then everyone comes at once."
Ginny frowned, "Hi to you too." She looked around and her gaze landed on Draco, she didn't smile but she didn't grimace either which was an improvement.
"Malfoy." She nodded.
Draco nodded in return but remained silent.
"Can you believe my luck at getting the exclusive on that scandal." She happily boasted to Harry.
Harry sighed, "How are you Harry? Fine thank you. How are the kids Harry? Oh they're good too."
She rolled her eyes, "Don't be dramatic. Besides you would have contacted me if the kids were in trouble. I suppose I better get ready for tonight." She strode out of the room.
Draco breathed out, "Well that's a much better greeting than I get from my wife." He tried joking, suddenly there was an awkward tension in the room.
Harry groaned, "Sorry about that."
Draco left not long after to go to his hotel and change for the party. Harry reluctantly went to his room to get ready. Since he began thinking about his marriage he realised he couldn't just ignore the obvious. It wasn't just him, Ginny snapped at him, was often out or they mainly discussed work or the kids. The intimacy, the spark died a long time ago.
Ginny left the bedroom when Harry arrived, claiming she had to go check on the kids and wait for any early guests arriving.
By the time Harry had showered, dressed and made his way to the back garden. Everyone was ready and waiting for the other party guests. Draco was talking with Scorpius and Zara, James was discussing his mums recent article with her. Al was with Lily trying to hang a banner that read, 'Au Revoir Scorpius'. Everything else the food, decorations and Zara smiled at him and said she was going to find James.
"Alright Scorpius?" Harry asked, he couldn't think of anything to say.
Scorpius shrugged, "Sure. Sad to be leaving. Thank you for letting me stay in your home and being such a wonderful host. I will miss all of you and I hope we stay in touch." He sincerely told Harry.
Harry smiled, "Sad to see you go too. I'm rubbish at keep up correspondence but you're welcome to visit whenever you're in England."
Scorpius smiled and glanced over at Al, he stopped smiling – he really didn't want to have to say goodbye to Al.
"Nice talking with you Mr Potter. If you'll excuse me I'm going to find Al." He walked away and Harry was left with Draco.
"Must be awkward for you. No one to mingle with other than Scorpius and Zara." Harry stated the obvious.
Draco shrugged, "I think I can manage, it's only one night and then we'll be going home."
Other guests started to arrive and they all wanted to say goodbye to Scorpius and Al was frustrated that they were taking up all of Scorpius' time.
Al just hovered by Scorpius' side as he thanked various members of his family. They exchanged pleasantries and said goodbyes. Scorpius went to thank his mum so Al took the opportunity to slip away. He went to his room to have a few moments to himself – he had just realised that Scorpius wouldn't even be staying tonight. The plan was for Scorpius to go back with his father and stay in his hotel and then leave tomorrow morning. Al didn't even have one more night with him, he'd be lucky to get one more hour of alone time with him.
Sometime late Scorpius opened Al's bedroom door and closed it behind him, he walked over to Al and crouched in front of Al, who was sat on the edge of his bed, elbows on his legs and head in his hands.
Scorpius reached out and caressed his wrist, "Hey."
Al didn't look up, "I knew this would be awful. I tried not to think about it, but I should have. Then I would be better prepared for you going."
Scorpius tugged at Al's wrist, "Can we not have our last moments together ruined by sadness."
Al sighed and looked up, "Sorry. I know...I just can't help it. I'm going to miss you and I have no idea what we are, or what is going to happen and I just don't want to deal with any of it." He complained.
Scorpius could relate to that, but he wanted to saviour the last evening together. He moved to sit next to Al on the bed, putting his arm around Al in the process. Scorpius tilted his head and rested his cheek against Al's shoulder.
"Spending this time with you has been..." Scorpius was cut off by Al's lips. When he moved away he rushed, "Don't do this. Don't tell me how great it has been, how wonderful and how you won't forget me. I cannot bare to hear that from you – please just don't make this any worse than it already is."
Scorpius nodded and resumed kissing Al until they were called down by Harry.
"Boys you up there? It's getting very late, Scorpius needs to say a quick goodbye to everyone and then he's leaving with his dad. Boys!" Harry called up the stairs.
Scorpius and Al had moved to laying entangled kissing on Al's bed, they pulled apart and Scorpius reluctantly stood and smoothed out his clothes.
"I guess this is it." He dryly remarked.
Al had also stood, "Will you write to me?" Al hated how clingy and desperate he sounded.
Scorpius pulled Al into a tight embrace, "Do you need to ask – of course I will."
Harry shouted, "Boys hurry up! Or I'll come up there." He threatened. He tried to leave them alone for as long as possible but it was very late and Draco and Scorpius needed to get back to their hotel.
Scorpius and Al broke apart and silently watched each other a moment before they headed downstairs. Scorpius thanked Al's family and said his goodbyes, then before it could even hit Al Scorpius was gone.
Al didn't stay downstairs to help clean up after the party and his dad didn't make him. He threw himself onto his bed and sulked about the situation. He pushed his hands under the pillow and he felt a parcel. He sat up and pulled the package out. Opening it he found a letter and a stack of photos. Smiling he realised it was from Scorpius, various photos from their days out and a few of them by the stream. Al unfolded the letter and read a heartfelt goodbye from Scorpius. He returned the package under his pillow and soon fell asleep fully clothed and on top of his covers. Dreaming about Scorpius and wondering if he would actually ever see him again.