Chapter 51
Sleepless Nights
Harry stood in the sitting room waiting for Malfoy and Snape. Tonight, had been his assigned night to clean up after dinner and they had both gone upstairs. He wasn't sure how long he had been standing in the sitting room, but it felt like a long time.
He had spent the afternoon reading an Arithmancy book and loving on Edgar who had been very vocal when he had returned to his room. Harry had felt bad when he noticed his food dish was empty. After feeding him and pulling out one of the cat toys he had bought, he had tried to lose himself in his book.
His Occlumency shields still didn't seem to be working like they had been. Every time he tried to pull up the wall he got a splitting headache. He had mostly managed to keep himself distracted. He didn't want to think about Snape or the Dursleys or the war. He just wanted to be a normal kid on summer break.
With a sigh he shuffled his feet a little. His back was starting to hurt standing in one place. It had been kind of George to let him sleep on his bed, but it hadn't been the most comfortable. Not that the one here was any better, it wasn't, but he'd cast cushioning charms on it.
He finally heard footsteps coming down the stairs. He was sure it was Malfoy. Snape walked in careful, measured steps. He wouldn't call the steps he heard running, but they were definitely quick.
Harry glanced up as Malfoy entered the room. He had books in his arms and only spared a quick look over at Harry before setting his things down on the table and sitting.
Harry swayed a little but kept his head down.
A few more minutes passed, and Malfoy finally spoke.
"What are you doing Potter? Does Snape have some sort of rule I don't know?" Malfoy asked.
Harry looked up. The tone hadn't been sharp like he had expected. Malfoy was looking at him with one eyebrow raised and his hands neatly folded in his lap.
Harry shook his head before looking back at the floor.
Another beat of silence passed, and Malfoy spoke again.
"So…Why are you standing like that?" Malfoy asked.
Harry shoulder sagged a little and he bit his lip before taking tentative steps closer to the chair. He took a few deep breaths trying to remind himself that he wouldn't be punished for sitting down. He'd been at Snapes for exactly a month now and the man had never scolded him for sitting on the furniture. Still, he sat softly, keeping his muscles tense, ready to get up if he was told to.
He glanced back at Malfoy who seemed to just be watching him. It made Harry wildly uncomfortable.
He finally heard Snape walking down the hall.
"I appreciate you both being prompt. I intend to read. Please maintain civil conversation." Snape said, settling into his armchair and opening a book.
Harry watched him for a minute and then looked back at Malfoy. He had no idea what he was supposed to say in this interaction.
"What are we supposed to talk about?" Harry finally asked softly.
Malfoy shrugged.
"I don't know. First year it was mostly getting to know are year mates. Now, we mostly just spend time together." Malfoy answered.
Harry nodded. That wasn't helpful at all and his anxiety at the situation was starting to rise. He didn't want to disobey Snape, but he also didn't know what to say. He finally just asked the first thing that came to mind.
"Who were you paired with?" Harry asked.
"Teddy." Malfoy answered.
Harry furrowed his brow at the answer. He had no idea who Malfoy was talking about and finally shook his head.
"Nott." Malfoy answered.
Harry nodded. Images of a brown-haired boy vaguely came to mind.
"I don't really know him." Harry said.
Malfoy shrugged.
"He mostly keeps to himself." Malfoy answered.
Harry nodded and fidgeted a bit.
"You guys don't have anything like this in Gryffindor?" Malfoy finally asked.
"No, were just sort of on our own to get to know everyone." Harry answered.
There was another long pause and Harry caught Snape looking over at them. He swallowed and tried to think of something neutral to ask.
"Do you play chess?" Harry asked.
Malfoy smirked and nodded.
"I'm one of the best in Slytherin. The only one who ever beat me consistently was a girl who finished school last year." Malfoy said, pride thick in his voice.
Harry nodded.
"I play with Ron sometimes. He's the best in Gryffindor. Has been for years. I'm not much of a challenge for him." Harry said quietly.
He loved playing with Ron. Even if he always lost. It made him feel included.
Malfoy snorted.
"Have you gotten to fly much this summer?" Malfoy asked.
"No, I haven't gotten to at all. I never do unless I get to go to see Ron before we go back to school." Harry answered quietly.
He really missed flying.
To his surprise Draco also looked wistful.
"I haven't been out either." Draco grumbled before subconsciously reaching up and rubbing at his cheek.
Harry nodded. He supposed having Voldemort as a house guest hadn't left much time for leisure activities.
"When do you think they'll send out OWL results?" Harry asked.
Malfoy shrugged.
"Haven't a clue. Hopefully soon. I'd like to think I did well, but I also don't want to complete essays for classes I won't be taking next year." Malfoy said.
Harry nodded. He hadn't really considered that when he had written his essays.
"You haven't finished?" Harry asked.
Malfoy shot him an angry look.
"Haven't exactly had time. Been a bit preoccupied." Malfoy growled.
"Draco." Snape said in warning, though he didn't look up from his book.
They both sat silently for a while.
"I'm sorry." Harry finally said quietly.
Malfoy just shrugged.
The topic of flying got brought back up and they ran out the time they had left talking about their favorite tricks. When the hour was up Malfoy flipped one of his books open. Harry said a quiet good night and then headed to his room hoping to get some sleep.
Draco woke to a sudden noise. He wasn't sure what it was, but it had sounded like a door banging. He pulled the covers off and grabbed his wand. He heard another strange noise and crept to his door. When he opened it, he could see Potter on the bathroom floor. He was leaning against the bathtub.
Draco considered what to do for a moment but when it seemed Snape hadn't heard the commotion he stepped out into the hall.
The bathroom was dark. Only lit by the low glow of the hall light and the moon. Even with the small amount of light Draco could see the sheen of sweat on Potter's skin. He looked ill.
"Are you okay?" Draco asked quietly.
Potter's head turned in alarm at the question. His green eyes nearly glowed in the moonlight.
Draco held up his hand in a show of peace.
Potter grimaced. Before Draco knew it Potter was up and getting sick in the toilet.
Draco froze for a moment, not sure what to do. Finally, he strode into the bathroom and flipped on the lights. He opened the cabinet door and found a stomach soother. Then stepped closer to Potter who seemed to just be sitting there panting slightly.
"Here." Draco said holding out the vial.
Potter shook his head.
Draco rolled his eyes.
"Do you want me to get Severus?" Draco asked, a slight annoyance to his voice.
Potter's whole body seemed to be shaking but then he nodded.
Draco put the potion away before walking down the hall to Severus' room. He knocked twice and waited.
The door flew open, and Severus scowled down at him. Draco could tell he had woken the man from a deep sleep. His eyes seemed unfocused, and his hair was a rumpled mess.
"What Draco?" Severus grumbled; his voice was thick with sleep.
Severus raised his hand and rubbed at his eyes before pushing his hair out of his face.
"It's Potter." Draco answered.
Severus brows creased in confusion.
"He's in the loo. I think he's sick." Draco answered.
Severus looked down the hall and nodded before disappearing back into his room. He came back a moment later with a shirt in his hand. He pulled it over his head as he walked down the hall.
Draco followed quietly in curiosity.
He leaned against his bedroom door and watched as Severus knelt next to Potter. Draco couldn't hear what was being said. He caught sight of Potter's eyes. He looked terrified.
Draco sucked in a sharp breath. Perhaps Potter was sicker than just a stomach bug. He'd seemed fine earlier. Then Draco thought back to all the Potions he'd seen in his room.
Severus stood and walked out of the bathroom and stared at Draco like he had forgotten he was there.
Severus' hand came back up and rubbed at his face. Draco caught sight of the mark and he fought not to grab at his. His was thankfully covered by a long sleeve sleep shirt.
"I need to make a call. Can you…" Severus trailed off in frustration.
With a sigh he met Draco's eyes. He could see the concern in Severus' eyes and wondered if it was concern about Potter or something else.
"Can I trust you to stay with him?" Severus asked seriously.
Draco nodded.
Severus nodded and disappeared into his room. Draco took a deep breath and walked on shaky legs into the bathroom. Potter didn't even look up at him.
Draco stood awkwardly for a moment and then sat down and leaned against the wall.
He kept an eye on Potter. He seemed lost. His eyes just fixed on nothing. His hands gripped tightly onto his over large shirt. His whole body was wracked with tremors like he'd been held under the Cruciatus. He kept swallowing hard like he was thirsty.
Draco stood and walked to the sink to find a paper cup. He quickly filled it with water before turning around and kneeling in front of Potter.
"Here. Have some water." Draco said quietly.
Potter turned his head and seemed to finally realize he was there. His eyes were red and shiny like he was about to cry.
"It's okay." Draco said softly.
He wasn't sure what it was about this moment, but Potter didn't seem like the brash Gryffindor. He seemed like a little kid. Like the look he'd seen on the Hufflepuffs' face before they'd fled the manor.
Draco swallowed hard.
Potter looked at the cup of water and finally nodded.
He took the cup in shaking hands and brought it to his lips. He sipped slowly, spilling some of it down his shirt.
Draco pulled his wand, and he saw Potter flinch. He supposed that was to be expected. If Potter pulled a wand on him, he'd probably flinch too.
"Just going to dry your shirt." Draco said.
Potter looked down at the large wet spot in the middle of his chest and nodded.
Draco waved his wand, and the shirt was dry.
He hoped Severus would return soon. He guessed he was getting Pomfrey. Potter looked grey. He hoped whatever he had wasn't contagious. He didn't want to spend the next week in bed drinking potions.
To Draco's relief he heard footsteps. When he looked up, he was confused to find Dumbledore instead of Pomfrey.
"Good evening, Draco." Dumbledore said quietly.
Draco just nodded.
Severus stepped up next to Dumbledore in the doorway. He gave Draco a pointed look. His eyes glancing at the wand he still had pointed at Potter.
Draco tucked the wand away and stood.
He shuffled foot to foot before making his way out of the bathroom. Once again he leaned up against the wall and watched as Severus helped Potter off the floor, then the three of them made it into Potter's room before closing the door.
Draco sighed and shook his head before turning back to his room. He laid back down on his bed and just stared at the ceiling in the dark room for a long time. He didn't know what was happening and he felt like he probably wasn't going to get to know.
Harry felt his shoulders relax as he made it to the door of the Book Nook.
Last night was horrid. Talking to Malfoy had been horribly awkward. Then he'd fallen down a rabbit hole of study after coming across something he didn't understand in Regulus' journal. He had fallen asleep under his Arithmancy book and had woken up screaming after having a vision.
His stomach had revolted, and he'd made a mad dash to the bathroom.
Malfoy had been…polite. He wasn't really sure. It had been the strangest interaction he'd ever had with him.
Then there was Snape. He was so mixed up about how to feel about the man now. He'd dreaded coming back yesterday. However, other than healing his arms and forcing Malfoy to apologize, the incident had mostly gone unacknowledged.
Snape had been kind and gentle with him in the middle of the night. He felt terrible for waking them both. Then he'd explained what he'd seen when Dumbledore had arrived. He hadn't had much to give the man. There had been an attack, but he didn't know where or who. The people were dead.
Harry swallowed hard as their deaths played in his head again. He had saved them the horror of what the Death Eaters had done to them. No one needed that in there head.
He hadn't been able to go back to sleep and was itching to leave this morning. He'd made breakfast and escaped after he'd eaten a few bites.
A soft mew at his feet brought his attention back to the present.
Harry smiled softly as Edgar wove through his legs.
"Come on." Harry said as he pat his chest. The cat took a leap and climbed up him before settling on his shoulders.
He'd noticed the kitten following about halfway to town and decided to just bring him with.
Harry opened the door and ran right into something hard. He heard an oof and some quiet swearing and realized someone was standing in front of him with a large box.
The box disappeared and Harry found himself face to face with Maggie.
"Max!" Maggie cheered.
Harry gave her a half smile.
"Sorry." Harry said looking at the large box now sitting between them.
"No worries. Don't suppose you would haul that out the door for me?" Maggie asked, gesturing to the box.
Harry nodded but became concerned when he saw several other boxes sitting behind her.
"Is something going on?" Harry asked in concern.
Maggie smiled widely.
"Street fair starts tomorrow." Maggie answered.
Harry's shoulders relaxed and Edgar mewed.
"Aww. Where did he come from?" Maggie said cooing over the cat that she had apparently missed.
Harry smiled and rubbed Edgar's head affectionately.
"Found him in the park." Harry said with a soft smile.
"Cute." Maggie said with another smile.
"Grandma probably won't mind him in the shop as long as he doesn't make a mess." Maggie said.
At that Edgar bounded off Harry's shoulders and promptly strolled over to one of the armchairs. He stretched out in the chair. He seemed content with laying in the warm sun, shining through the window.
Maggie giggled and Harry smiled, shaking his head at the kitten's antics.
Harry hauled out the first box and then several more before Mary appeared from the back of the shop.
Harry gave her a smile before he noticed the strict look on her face. Harry lowered his head.
"You come with me." Mary said, all but stomping into the back-room.
Harry followed quietly.
When they were in the room Mary turned to him and crossed her arms.
"You, young man are going to put me in an early grave." Mary scolded.
Harry blushed and wondered what he had done this time. He'd come to town hoping for a little escape.
"I'm sorry?" Harry whispered, though it came out as a bit of a question.
"Severus called here the other day after his visit and told me you took off again. I worried about you all day. Wondering if you were going to show up or if you'd gotten yourself in some sort of trouble." Mary said.
Harry felt like he was getting an in-person howler.
He blushed heavily and twisted his hands together. He hadn't meant to worry anyone. He didn't even know Snape had contacted anyone else. He wondered if the Order had been informed.
"I'm sorry ma'am." Harry said contritely.
Mary nodded and stepped closer to him. He realized then that he had finally grown a little as they were now almost eye to eye.
"I've come to care about you a great deal. I don't want you to get hurt. You scared me. You can always come to me if something is wrong. Okay?" Mary said, putting her hands on Harry's arms just above his elbows.
Harry felt tears sting his eyes. He swallowed hard before nodding. Before he knew it Mary had moved her hands and pulled him into a tight hug. His body froze at the sudden and unexpected embrace. He felt a single tear slide down his cheek and hesitantly wrapped his arms around Mary.
She had been a beacon of light in all of the darkness this summer.
"Thank you." Harry whispered softly as they stepped out of the hug.
Mary gave him a soft smile and nodded.
"Anytime." she said earnestly.
Harry returned her smile and blushed a little as he wiped his face.
"Now, I saw that you and Maggie already got most of the boxes out. If you could help set the tables up that would be wonderful. I think Maggie and I can manage to get the books on the tables but the tables themselves are bulky." Mary said.
Harry nodded.
"Of course. Anything you need." Harry said.
Mary smiled.
"Do you think you might be able to give Julie a hand once you have the tables up?" Mary asked.
"No problem." Harry said with a nod.
Harry followed Mary. He collected the tables and got them set up. Mary had caught sight of Edgar at some point and had gone over to pet him. Julie had even shown up for a minute. Edgar had soaked up all the attention.
When everyone was done cooing over the kitten, Harry followed Julie next door.
Harry was grinning like a fool as he walked home. He had ended up helping several of the shop owners set up. None of them had needed much help but they had all been very thankful. He'd helped Julie move boxes of pet toys. Then quickly hung a few signs.
Then he helped Noah, the owner of the Art store. He had set up easels and table's to display paint on. He had apparently remembered Harry and asked about his drawings. Harry had shown him a few and Noah had been impressed with his skill. The complement had caused him to blush but the warmth in his heart had stayed with him as he moved on to the next shop.
Harry had continued down the road and helped Herbert move boxes of personal care items. The chemist didn't have a big display. However, to Harry's delight he'd had a box of Wixen candy he was putting out. It was under muggle repelling charms and the man had smirked when Harry had picked up a chocolate frog.
He had smiled knowingly and offered him a few sweets for helping him. Harry had thanked the man and put the sweets in his bag.
Harry had been surprised to learn that the owners of the music store were the Harding's, the parents of the little boy that he had saved. Harry had been happy to see the little boy, Johnny, again. He had named the dog Max. Which Harry had laughed about.
He had helped Mr. Harding move a few boxes before being told he should stop by tomorrow. Harry had agreed and headed down the road.
He'd helped others along the way. Several people were setting up booths selling homemade goods. Soaps, candles, jewelry, and other things. By the time he had made it to the diner he was starving. He had remembered Snapes warning and figured he should eat before he continued.
Jane had been all smiles when he had arrived and quickly got him a sandwich and some chips. They'd talked a little as she and Tommy, the cook, wrapped premade sandwiches to sell tomorrow.
This had led to Harry helping tommy in the kitchen for nearly an hour. Jane had been impressed with his work and told him that if he was back next summer, she might have a job for him.
Harry had felt a lot of mixed emotions by the offer. Knowing his mother had once worked there stirred a longing for connection. However, He knew he would likely never return to the little mill town. For all he knew by next summer they would be in the middle of a war, or he could be dead.
He had smiled and nodded. Telling her he would keep it in mind before he'd left.
He'd briefly glanced at the sundown, wondering who was watching the office if Maggie was gone. He saw a sign that just said to go to the Book Nook.
It had made Harry smile at how peaceful this small town was allowed to be. All of their stands were being set up the night before and no one seemed concerned about leaving them out overnight.
He had continued on and helped briefly at the hardware store, though there display was nearly done. He had used his small size to run an extension cord under some tables and had laughed at the ridiculousness of it.
When he had made it to the nursery, he had smiled widely at all the beautiful flowers. They even had some honeysuckles which he had stopped to smell. Mrs. Lewis, the owner, had asked if he wouldn't mind moving a few pots and he had happily helped. The pots were terracotta, and Harry had been struck by a memory of a terracotta sculpture that the Dursleys had once bought for Dudley.
Harry had been instructed to spread some sort of paste on it and it was supposed to grow. He'd actually had a lot of fun doing it, even if it was for Dudley. He had never gotten to see if the strange paste did grow, Dudley had smashed it a day later and blamed it on Harry.
When Harry finally made it to the grocery store, he was hot and sweaty. He slipped in and managed not to be noticed by anyone until he returned to the checkout with a large bottle of water.
Jack had smiled widely and asked if he thought he could do some work for him. Harry had cracked open the bottle of water and drank greedily before agreeing.
He'd helped jack set up tables and move some products to them. Mostly candy and chips. As the sun had started to get low in the sky, he told Jack he had to leave. Jack had insisted on a smoke before he left, and Harry had agreed. He knew Snape wouldn't be impressed with his choice, but frankly he wasn't sure he cared right now. He'd had a surprisingly good day.
He had quickly made his way to the Book Nook and collected Edgar before heading back to Snapes.
He nearly skipped up the steps. Today was great. He had stayed distracted from his thoughts and had felt useful helping everyone out. He quickly shifted his appearance and opened the door.
He could smell something cooking and his stomach gave a slight grumble. It surprised him. He wasn't used to feeling hungry at all. He supposed it was his potions that were finally starting to work. His anxiety started to rise as he walked to his room and put Edgar on his bed. He wasn't looking forward to facing Snape. Nor was he looking forward to the mandatory 'chat' with Malfoy after.
He smiled a little as he pulled a couple of wizarding candies from his bag. He pocketed them before making his way downstairs to dinner.
Draco sighed as he set his books down on the coffee table in Snapes sitting room. He'd had a rather boring day working on his homework. He'd been frequently distracted by thoughts of last night. He wasn't sure what was going on with Potter but clearly something.
Potter had been gone all day. He had gently pried at lunch, but Severus hadn't given anything away. Potter had seemed antsy at dinner and was now cleaning up. Severus had gone upstairs to collect his book.
Draco tapped his foot as he waited.
Shortly Severus joined him and settled into his chair. Draco considered striking up a conversation, but he honestly didn't even know what to talk about. Severus obviously wasn't willing to talk to him about what was going on with Potter, and everything else on his mind seemed like small talk. Questions about homework, or what they were going to do in there dueling lesson tomorrow.
His summer had gone from intense to rather boring quite quickly. He was thankful to no longer be in the manor, however he wished he had more to do. He was looking forward to going back to the school, anything to break up the monotony around here.
Potter walked in and stood awkwardly like he had last night. It was such strange behavior and Draco couldn't really understand it.
He glanced over at Severus and then back to Potter.
Potter fidgeted for a moment then pulled something from his pocket and stepped closer to Draco. Draco shot him a confused look but held out his hand. Potter dropped something in his hand and Draco smiled.
It was a chocolate frog. They had always been his favorite.
Draco looked up and met Potter's eyes. He was a little taken aback by their color. Potter wasn't wearing his glasses, and his eyes were somehow more striking like that.
Potter gave him a half smile and then walked over to Severus and gave him one as well. Severus seemed perplexed as he looked down at the candy.
"Did you need something at the chemist?" Severus asked.
Potter shook his head.
"No, sir. The street fair is tomorrow, and everyone was setting up today. I got these for you." Potter said softly before walking back over to stand by the other armchair.
Severus nodded.
"I'd forgotten. I'm sorry you won't be able to attend tomorrow. We are expected at the school for your lesson.
Potter's face fell and he lowered his head before nodding.
"Yes, sir." Potter said softly.
Draco looked at Severus and saw a calculating look before he turned back to his book.
Draco looked back at Potter. He felt a little bad for him. He'd had a rough night and clearly, he was disappointed in not being able to go to the street fair.
"Come on Potter. The quicker we start the quicker we can be done. You look like you could use a decent night's sleep." Draco said.
Potters' eyes flicked to Severus for a moment before he nodded and sat precariously on the chair.
Draco furrowed his brows before he shook his head. Potter was acting like a frightened house elf.
Talking was easier tonight. They avoided the awkward first part and moved straight to talking about Quidditch. They talked about teams and players. Then moved on to games they had played at school. The conversation hadn't been very deep, but it wasn't bad. The hour was up quickly and like the night before, Potter left as soon as he was allowed.
Draco watched him leave. He looked down at the chocolate frog that was sitting on top of his books. He realized he'd forgotten to say thank you.
He stood and walked into the hall and saw Potter halfway up the stairs.
"Potter." Draco called.
Potter turned and looked at him.
"Thanks." Draco said.
Harry furrowed his brows.
"For the chocolate frog. They're my favorite." Draco said with a smile.
Potter gave him a half smile and nodded before continuing up the stairs.
Draco walked back into the sitting room. He collapsed back on the couch and dreaded opening his textbooks. The words were all starting to run together without meaning. He needed a break from them.
He sat up and popped the chocolate frog box open. The frog jumped out and Draco slammed the side of his fist down on its back, evenly breaking the frog into five pieces. He picked up one and popped it in his mouth before looking at the card inside.
"Here." Severus said.
Draco looked up from the card and saw Severus holding out the Chocolate frog Potter had given him.
"You're not going to eat it?" Draco asked.
Severus shook his head.
"They are not one of my favorites." Severus said, shaking the box a little.
Draco took the box and looked at it before he looked back at Severus.
"But you taught me how to eat them. How to break them like that." Draco said, gesturing to his broken frog.
Severus smiled a little.
"Yes, I did. However, do you have any idea how many you would make me eat when you were little? We probably ate a box every time I saw you." Severus said with a small laugh.
Draco blushed and nodded. Those had been good times. He'd always loved spending time with his godfather. It felt like everything was wrong now.
"They were good times for me too, Draco." Severus said softly.
Draco smiled and nodded.
He popped another piece of chocolate in his mouth before pulling a textbook into his lap.
Severus was startled awake by knocking on his door. He swung his legs out of bed and rubbed his tired eyes. When he pulled the door open, he was greeted by the terrified eyes of his godson.
"He's really bad. What the hell is going on Severus?" Draco asked a little hysterically.
Severus realized he could hear muffled sounds from the end of the hall and sighed. Harry had been nearly non-responsive last night after a vision. He hadn't explained what had happened to the people he saw, just that they were dead and that the Dark Lord was planning something.
Albus had called this afternoon when the Wixen had been found. Albus had looked ten years older as he explained that it had been a couple, and they had been skinned alive.
Severus couldn't imagine how Harry was coping after having seen that.
He walked into his room and grabbed a t-shirt before pulling it on. He had started keeping one handy. He didn't want to further upset Harry if he was needed in the middle of the night.
Severus walked down the hall and found Harry balled up against the back wall of the bathroom. He had tears streaming down his face. He was rocking and making a high-pitched keening noise.
Severus walked into the bathroom and Harry paid him no mind. He realized the boy had gotten sick and missed the toilet. He grimaced before waving his wand and vanishing the mess.
They had to find a way to keep the Dark Lord out of the boy's mind. He was going to drive him insane.
"Harry." Severus called.
There was no response at all.
Severus tried a few more times and eventually stood and opened the bathroom cabinet. He withdrew a Dreamless sleep. He waved his wand and spelled the potion into the boy's stomach. Harry's eyes drooped for a moment before closing.
He stepped closer and then reached down and picked Harry up. He was still far too light. He gently carried him back to his room and laid him on his bed. When he turned around, he found Draco staring at him.
Severus sighed.
"Go back to bed Draco." Severus said softly.
Draco gave him an incredulous look.
"Are you out of your mind. You think I'm going back to sleep after this. I was barely able to go back to sleep last night. Tonight, Potter was screaming and crying. You expect I'll just go lay down and go back to sleep?" Draco said with a challenge in his voice.
Severus sighed again.
"Would you like a dreamless sleep?" Severus asked.
"No! I want to know what's going on!" Draco yelled. Edgar darted from under the bed and passed Draco to get out of the room.
Severus pinched the bridge of his nose.
"It's not my place to tell you Draco." Severus said softly.
Draco just glared.
"I need to call the headmaster. If you can't sleep, can you sit with Harry for a little while? I only gave him a small dose of dreamless sleep. If he starts to stir, I need you to come get me." Severus said, heading back past Draco and down the stairs.
Severus stood in the sitting room feeling shaky. He was waiting for Albus to come through. To his surprise the man had actually been asleep when he had called. He'd decided years ago that the man must never sleep. Though of course that was ridiculous.
The floo flared green and a moment later Albus stepped out. His robes were a more subdued blue-grey tonight which Severus was thankful for. The mood in the house was not that of the flamboyance that the headmaster usually brought with him.
"Severus." Albus said softly, worry obvious in his voice.
Severus shook his head. Harry was not all right. All he could hope was that the boy would have a little time to recover while he was under the dreamless sleep.
"It's not good, Albus." Severus said softly.
Albus looked over him in concern before nodding.
"Where is the boy?" Albus asked.
"I gave him a small dose of dreamless sleep. He was non-responsive. I have Draco sitting with him now." Severus said quietly.
"I see. Let's make some tea. Then we'll go and check on him." Albus said with a sigh, before walking out of the sitting room.
Severus sighed before following.
Draco sat in the desk chair and stared at Potter. His body was still, other than the slight rise and fall of his chest.
He glanced around the room and realized that Potter's trunk was gone. He grimaced at the memory of Severus finding out that he'd gone through Potter's trunk. He had known when he did it that he shouldn't. However, he hadn't found anything, and he hadn't expected anyone would find out.
Draco leaned forward and folded his hands. He was struck by the same feeling he'd had last night. Potter looked younger and smaller when he was like this. He had such a big personality at school it seemed to overshadow how small he really was.
That had not been the same since he had been staying here with Severus. Potter seemed to just shrink away into the corners of any space he was in.
Draco bit his lip. It reminded him of Teddy.
He had realized today that Potter's behavior reminded him of the way Teddy often acted. It wasn't exactly the same, but it was startlingly similar. He wondered if that was the real reason Potter was here. He knew Severus didn't tolerate child abusers. He supposed that made the most sense. What else could have caused Severus to do a complete turnaround concerning Potter.
Draco sighed. It didn't matter if he was right. There was clearly something else going on that was being kept from him. He thought perhaps Potter was just having nightmares but the fact that Severus had called Dumbledore both nights left the impression it was something else.
He was shaken from his thoughts by a soft groan. He looked and saw that Potter's previously relaxed body was now tight with tension. His face was lined, and he looked like he was in pain.
Draco stood and walked to the door and was thankful to see Severus and the headmaster coming up the stairs.
"I think he's waking up." Draco said softly.
Severus nodded.
"Thank you, Draco." Severus said.
Draco nodded and briefly met the headmaster's eye.
"Something to settle the nerves." Dumbledore said holding out a mug.
Draco reached out and took it before looking at Severus.
"It's calming tea. Take it to your room. It should help you settle enough to go back to sleep." Severus said.
Draco sighed and nodded. He hated that he was being shuffled off without any information again.
He heard Potter's door close and no other sounds. They must have put up silencing spells.
He closed his door gently and made his way to his bed.
He sat cross legged with his mug of tea clasped between both hands. He really didn't feel like going back to sleep. Sunrise was only an hour or two away. With a sigh, he set the tea on the side table and laid down and stared at the ceiling. He let his mind wander over all the things he had seen since he had come here.
The longer he sat there the more it all made sense. The more certain he was about why Potter was staying here.
He sighed. He felt like a prat. He couldn't imagine how he would have behaved if someone had treated Teddy the way he had treated Potter this week. No wonder Severus was being so short with him.
Draco groaned and rubbed his face.
Severus sipped his coffee as he stared at the newspaper in front of him. The attacks from the last two nights had both made the paper, as well as a photo of the Dark Mark hanging over a house. His chest felt tight. War was truly upon them.
Harry had been able to tell them there was another attack but again hadn't given more details than that. The people involved were dead. He also ominously told them something bad was coming. He couldn't be more specific. Only that the Dark Lord was 'happy' about something to come.
Albus had left an hour ago to inform the Order. Severus had told Harry to get some more sleep.
He doubted the boy would go back to sleep. Not after seeing whatever it was that he had seen but Severus didn't know what else to say to the boy at four in the morning.
There was a creak in the hallway and Severus looked up.
Draco walked into the kitchen looking exhausted. He had bags under his eyes and a tightness around his mouth. His shoulders were slumped.
"Morning." Severus said softly.
Draco only nodded before going about making his tea.
A moment later Harry also joined them. He looked just as rough. His eyes seemed haunted. Severus was surprised he wasn't occluding.
"Morning." Severus said softly.
Once again, he received only a nod before Harry made himself a cup of coffee and came to sit at the table.
Severus eyes bounced between both boys. Neither was in any shape to go to the school and have a lesson. They'd be more likely to make a mistake and get hurt. They didn't need that today.
Severus raised his hand and rubbed his face. Albus was holding an Order meeting tonight, so he would still need to go to the school but that wouldn't be for hours.
A thought occurred to him as he looked at Harry. The boy had been excited about the street fair. Perhaps that would get everyone's mind off the hard night. They could go to the school tomorrow.
He nodded, decision made, before standing and walking to the lab.
When he returned Draco had taken the newspaper and was staring at it intently. Harry was working over a pan, getting breakfast started.
To his surprise Draco threw down the paper with a sneer. He stood and made his way to the cupboard and collected plates and silverware before setting the table.
Harry finished the breakfast and joined them at the table.
The atmosphere was tense, and they ate in silence.
Before Harry popped up to start clearing the table Severus waved his wand and set the dishes to start washing themselves.
A spark in Harry's eyes told him that he should probably teach the boy the spell. Perhaps knowing a few cleaning spells would help to break the boy out of some of his obsessive cleaning.
Severus retrieved three vials from his pocket and set them on the table.
"I think we will forgo the dueling lesson today. I don't think any of us are in the right head space." Severus said calmly.
There was a range of emotions on both boys' faces. Draco seemed mostly disappointed and Harry seemed relieved.
"These potions are an energy potion. They won't cure our lack of sleep last night, but it should help us get on with our day. Similar to a caffeine boost." Severus said.
Harry lowered his head.
"Sorry." He mumbled.
Severus wished to reassure Harry but chose instead to let the matter drop. It wasn't Harry's fault, and he didn't want to dwell on the long night they'd had.
"It should be enough of a boost to get us through the day." Severus said.
Both boys nodded and reached out for a potion. Harry examined it for a long moment before meeting Severus' eye.
"This won't…um…it's okay for me to take this?" Harry mumbled.
Severus gave him a slight smile and nodded. The potion was safe to take with everything but draught of peace. It also thankfully did not contain any of Harry's allergens.
Harry nodded and drank the potion down.
Once he had collected the empty vials, he watched a little energy come back into the boys. He also felt slightly better.
"I think for today we should go to town and enjoy the street fair. We can make up the lesson tomorrow." Severus said.
Harry seemed to perk up immediately though Draco still looked a little hesitant.
"I'll get you more chocolate frogs." Severus said with a slight roll of his eyes.
That seemed to be all the encouragement Draco needed.
However, when he looked back at Harry, he looked disappointed.
"I shouldn't go." Harry mumbled quietly.
Severus brow crease in confusion.
"You seemed excited to go last night." Severus said softly.
Harry shrugged his shoulder.
"'Harry Potter' shouldn't be in town. Right? I'm in hiding." Harry said with a heavy sigh.
Severus was even more confused. Harry hadn't been going to town in this form. Then it dawned on him that Draco didn't know that.
Severus sighed.
"I don't think you're going to be able to keep that from Draco. If you don't want to come to town with us that is your choice, but I think it would do you good to go out." Severus said softly.
Draco looked lost by the conversation.
Harry sighed before looking at Draco and then back to Severus. He nodded and stood from the table.
"I'm going to go get dressed. Mary wants me to hang a sign for her today." Harry mumbled as he shuffled out of the room.
"What was that about?" Draco asked.
Severus rubbed his temples before turning to Draco.
"Harry is a metamorphmagus. He has been going to town under a different identity." Severus said pushing himself up from the table.
Draco shrugged.
"Okay. So? What's the big deal? I mean it's a cool ability but why is he acting all weird about it." Draco asked.
"Because the identity he has chosen for himself is his base form. I imagine he will feel exposed shifting into that form. For all intents and purposes, you have been his enemy for years." Severus said, pouring himself another cup of coffee.
Draco snorted.
"Are you telling me he chooses to walk around with that bird's nest on his head? How bad does he look in base form?" Draco asked sarcastically.
Severus rolled his eyes at the boy's antics.
Draco walked out of the kitchen and Severus sighed. He hoped he was making the right choice. Both boys needed a break, and this could be a good one. He wasn't a fan of the crowds that the street fair produced, but he would endure it for the hope of a peaceful day.
