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Chapter Text

General:

Harry sat down at his usual spot in potions class, Ron sitting next to him. Snape was assigning potion partners, though Harry wasn’t paying attention, he didn’t even notice when Ron got up to sit down next to Seamus. He did however look up when a loud thud of books appeared next to him. Draco Malfoy. Pulling out his chair and sitting down with a large sigh. “What are you doing here Malfoy?” Harry questioned in a confused state.
“Were you not listening Potter?” Draco said, sounding annoyed, “We are potion partners.” He said with some sort of disgust presence in his voice. “Well brilliant” Harry exclaimed with gritted teeth. “What potion are we to make?” Harry asked, still confused.
“Calming Draught” Draco responded with a sharp tongue. The rest of the lesson seemed to be a drag, never ending. As they had a double for potions they were in each other's presence for three hours.

Harry's POV:

I am not sure as to what I am supposed to be doing, Malfoy has taken control and is not letting me touch anything in case I ‘Mess something up’. Why is he always so stuck up, and how can he look so good? No, why am I thinking about this!? A loud grunt pulled me from my train of thought, looking up I see Malfoy rapidly flicking through his notes, trying to find, Merlin knows what. “What are you looking for?” I asked as he continued to flick through pages. He ignored me, of course he did. He is always ignoring me or if he is not he is being a dick. So I asked again and this time I got a response, “None of your business Potter.” he said tone sharp.
“Well it sort of is my business as we are partners-” I said, cut off by his look, he looked at me in a weird way “Potion partners I meant” I could feel my face becoming heated.

An hour past and I was just getting more bored by the second, a loud explosion made everyone jolt and look up to see Seamus and Ron covered in what was supposed to be there potion but turned into an explosion, of course no one is surprised to see that Seamus was the one to cause it, he has quite the record for explosions, in a number of classes across the curriculum. I looked around the room to see Hermione partnered with Malfoy’s best friend, Pansy, though they looked a bit too comfortable with each other, smiling at one another and being touchy with the other's arms. Hermione caught Harry’s gaze and smiled, going red in the face and quickly resuming her calming draught potion. I bring my attention back to where Malfoy is making the potion, he looks at me “Well if you want to make yourself useful for once, start to pulverise these caterpillars, make sure to collect as much juice as possible, tell me when you are finished so I can add it to the cauldron once it has finished steeping.” Malfoy handed me the equipment and I got to it, pleased I am no longer bored out of my mind.

Collecting juices from the caterpillars takes me about 10 minutes, Malfoy was watching me the whole time ensuring I did not mess it up. I handed him the vial which contained the juice, he took it from my hand, slightly brushing it, then poured it into the cauldron, mixing it and letting it boil for about three minutes. We continued to somewhat work together for the next couple of hours until the class had ended and we had completed our calming draught potion though Malfoy had done the majority of the work due to his potion skills and hatred towards me. Snape called Malfoy and I to the front of the class while everyone began to pack their things and leave. “Well done to the both of you” Snape said, he gave me a look “Potter maybe next time you will help more? I will assign you two together again in the future, Malfoy could give you some tips in the meantime can’t you?” He looked at Malfoy and he nodded back at the professor “Well best you pack up now” Snape said as he walked over to his desk, Malfoy and I headed back to our desk to grab our things, neither saying a word to one another. We both walked out of the class, Hermione and Ron waiting for me, Pansy waiting for Malfoy.

Chapter Text

General:

Weeks past tension was high between Harry and Draco, they would give each other looks in the corridors, both giving each other grimacing faces. Nothing was out of the ordinary really, just the noticeable tension they were giving off. Draco bumped into Harry one day, both on their way to different classes. Pansy and Hermione saw this and decided the two needed to talk. Hermione told Harry to meet her in the library at 4pm, Pansy told Draco to meet her there at the same time as well though neither would be there, setting Draco and Harry up. It was the perfect plan, that was the idea though, for it to be perfect.

Draco's POV:

Pansy and I were walking to charms when she told me to meet her in the library at 4pm, I am not sure why, maybe she might confess her unrequited love for me, I sniggered at the thought of that and how I would immediately reject her on the spot. We are better as friends, best friends rather than lovers, Merlin imagine that, Pansy and I in a relationship, I could never. Though that would be rather unlikely, I know she has a thing for Granger but won’t admit it to me, perhaps they are in a secret relationship, that wouldn’t be a shock due to how snuggly they looked in potions, it made me feel repulsed. Potter seemed to notice too but he did not seem to mind the fact they could possibly be together. Pansy and I eventually arrive in charms class, there is talk of a Triwizard tournament this year, unfortunately we can not participate due to how young we are, sad Potter can’t be selected and possibly killed.

Charms class was rather quick today, Pansy and I parted ways to our next class and then we would meet in the library. Two hours have passed and I am on my way there. I think Potter is stalking me because he has been following me ever since I left our Defense Against the Dark Arts class. I arrived at the library and started my search for Pansy. Potter seems to be searching for someone as well, probably Granger or Weasley. I was not able to find Pansy so I took a seat at one of the nearby tables as I awaited her arrival. Curiously I watched Potter as he seemed to do the same thing. Strangely he sat at MY table, why? There are plenty of free tables around the room so why sit with me? Then he spoke. “Waiting for someone?” he asked in his Potterly way, Merlin why is he always so bright and bubbly, it is rather annoying. “Pansy” I responded, I didn’t look up, though I knew he was staring at me, I could feel his eyes burning a hole through my soul. “Do you know where she might be? I am also waiting for someone, Hermione, she told me to meet her here at 4pm and it is not like her to be late, especially to the library.” I just nodded. I did not know what I should respond with.
“Maybe they are off snogging together, imagine that!” I exclaimed and I started to laugh, Potter giggled too. His laugh was so nice to hear… Wait…Why am I thinking about him in that way!? I brushed the thought away as quickly as possible, luckily I had been laughing so the red blush on my face was not that visible, then I realised what I had done, I had laughed, smiled even, a Malfoy shouldn’t do that, we shouldn’t smile, at least not around people, especially Potter of ALL people.

Potter brought me back and out of my train of thought. “Well then, we shall wait together I guess,” he said. “You don’t have to, we don’t have to wait together for them.” Why won’t he just go away! “Well true but Snape did say you were to give me some ‘tips’ on potions as I clearly can not brew one, even when I am given the chance.” He shot me a look once he finished the last part. I simply rolled my eyes at him. “Fine.” I had caved, why have I caved to Potter OF ALL PEOPLE. I stood up, walking over to a bookshelf. I gathered a pile of books and placed them in front of Potter. He jolted at the loud thud “Thanks…” he said with the sound of confusion present in his voice. “Well don’t just sit there, read them.” I said, I was getting a bit annoyed. Potter did as I said and started to study the books I had given him. Merlin, why was he so nice to look at, especially while he is reading, he looks so peaceful and- Why do I keep doing this, why does this keep happening to me, I need to get him out of my head. I stood up, pushed my chair in and was about to walk away so Potter was not able to see the rising blush on my face when he said “Dra- I mean Malfoy where are you off to? These books are not of much use if you're not here to assist me…” he trailed off. I was still looking away from him, “Come back and talk to me once you have finished reading all the material I have selected for you” and with that I walked out of the library and back to the Slytherin Common Room.

Pansy POV:

Draco has not come back from the library yet, which means either Hermione and I’s plan actually worked or they have sent one another to detention or the Hospital wing. I snuck out of the Slytherin common room as I do not want to run into Draco. Time to find Hermione. After a while of searching the ground I finally spotted her with a book in the courtyard. I snuck up behind her and covered her eyes “Guess who?” I said in an excited tone.
“I know it is you Pansy.” she quickly responded, shutting her book and turning to me.
“Merlin, how can you always guess?” I asked
“Well for starters Ron and Harry do not do that, secondly I know what your hands feel like, and I know your lovely voice.” as she finished she reached for my hand, I let her take it.
“Want to go somewhere a bit more private?” I asked blush overtaking my face.
“Please” she said and grabbed her book as I pulled her away, we found a broom closet and I charmed the door shut behind us. As soon as I heard the click I pinned her against the wall, my mouth on hers, we were so insync. People think Hermione is so innocent, but she is the complete opposite, that is when she is with me. A realisation hit me and I pulled away, Hermione pouted at the loss. “What time is it?” I quickly asked, knowing Draco would be back at the dorms soon. “I'm guessing about 4:30-45?... Why?” she questioned
“Shit- Draco will be back and he is going to be pissed at me.” I exclaimed
“Harry too, we will have to pick this back up another time” and with that she gave me a quick peck on the lips, grabbed her book, took a final glance at me, smiled and left.

As I arrived back at the dorms I found a moping Draco seated on the couches, his head popped up as he saw me enter. He stood quickly, “And where might have you been? I had to talk to Potter, he was waiting for Hermione, we thought the two of you might have gone off and started snogging together or something.” I was speechless. He was correct, but I couldn’t let him know that though he was my best friend, best friends are allowed to keep secrets from each other… right? “Hermione and I thought that we would set the two of you up, we couldn’t help but notice the tension that was between you two, both the usual fire and maybe a bit more…” I said Draco looked at me in confusion “What do you mean by ‘maybe a bit more’?” He sounded a bit pissed off but when doesn’t he? “You know enemies to lovers kind of stuff, please don’t kill me, or Hermione!” I said quickly. Draco stood jaw dropped, practically on the floor.
“I have no such feelings towards Potter, only feelings of hatred and disgust! And since when did you start calling Granger by her first name?” He was questioning me, oh no this could go terribly, all I have to do is admit to liking Hermione, not that hard… “Uhhh since we started to talk more as we have been assigned partners multiple times in different classes, we sort of may have become friends…” To that Draco nodded, sighed and stormed off to his dorm. Why couldn’t I just say it, seven little words ‘Hermione and I are seeing each other’ Merlin! Why am I making this so difficult for myself!

Harry POV:

As Draco left me alone in the library I continued to read, the books were boring but helpful I suppose. About half an hour of reading these books had passed and I have decided that Hermione for once in her life is a no show. I took the library books with me as I left and headed up to the Gryfindor common room. On the way up I stumbled into Hermione. I shot her a look. “And where were you? I was waiting for you for over half an hour. I ended up talking to Malfoy who gave me some tips on potions” I gestured to the large pile of books I was carrying.
“He definitely gave you a look to read through, how will you cope?” she said with a smirk
“He told me to go back to him once I finished them, though that will not be anytime soon…Oh that was the point, so I didn’t bother him with any more questions about potions…” I trailed off Hermione for some reason, seemed to be rather disappointed with my conclusion. I do not know why and I ended up ignoring it. We got back to the dorms Ron was waiting for us. We chatted for a bit about anything really, I eventually went to bed, tired of the long day. After finally being able to get to sleep I woke up, weirdly Draco Malfoy was in my dreams…Shirtless… Looking very sexy. No, why am I picturing this of all places of all people! Embarrassed, I shut my eyes and fell back asleep.

Chapter Text

Harry POV:

I woke up earlier than I would normally. I grabbed my glasses and put them on,I could see the sun was just rising and painted a soft orange sort or yellow shade across the walls of our shared dorm. All seemed well for the few seconds of the early morning. Until I remembered something, the dream I had that night… It was about Malfoy, he looked so sexy, I wonder what he looks like in real life… Is it just the same or is he even hotter- Wait… I’m doing it again. I need to get Malfoy out of my mind. Merin, how will I face him now knowing me it will be a disaster. And what does this dream mean…Do I have a crush on Malfoy? What sort of thought is that, why in Merlin's beard would I ever have a crush on Draco Malfoy! Of all people for me to have a sexy dream about! Draco damn Malfoy. Some rummaging brought me back from my panic. “You alright mate? You are very red. You feeling alright?” It was Ron. Shit was my face that red!? I look over to Ron who has just gotten out of bed and was starting to get ready for another day of classes. “Yea I’m alright I just had a really weird dream…That’s all” I responded trying not to make myself blush even more. “Oooo, I had a weird dream too, it was about Hermione…I need to tell her something but she will probably reject me…” he said
“What is it mate?” I asked, I am not intrigued to hear what he has been dreaming about… Maybe he has been having the same dreams. “I have a crush…On Hermione… And I don’t know what to do. She is just so incredibly amazing and smart and funny and kind the list could go on.” He was now spread out on his bed head facing the ceiling.
“I say you should go for it mate.” I say now sitting up to look at what seemed to be a melted Ron. “Yea I might. Oh you know how the Triwizard tournament is coming up and how they select the champions, well Fred and George told me they were going to try to put their names in the cup, even though they aren’t of age! Apparently they are using some sort of potion that will age themselves up for a short period of time.” he exclaimed. I was in shock
“How are they going to get that to work! Surely there is some sort of magic that protects people from doing such things…Right?” I asked
“Not sure mate” and with that I got off my bed and started to get ready for the day.

General:

Over the course of the next few days leading up to Halloween, more and more students were putting their name into the Goblet of Fire. Once Halloween finally arrived and the visiting schools were at Hogwarts it was time for the selection to begin. “Viktor Crum From Durmstrang” Dumbledore announced to the great hall. Classmates of Viktor’s began to cheer rapidly for him as he walked up onto the stage. “Fleur Delacour from Beauxbatons” Dumbledore yet again announced, and another eruption of cheers broke out. Finally the last name was spat from the cup. “Cedric Diggory from Hogwarts” Dumbledore pronounced, cheers erupted yet again. “Congratulations to our Champions-” Dumbledore was cut off by Snape as he pointed at the cup to show another name had been drawn. “Harry Potter…” Dumbledore whispered in a very hushed tone not many could hear. “Harry Potter” he announced louder for everyone to hear. Everything went silent, no one said a word as Harry stood up and walked his way to the front of the hall.

“HARRY POTTER!” a voice boomed from the front of Dumbledore's office, it was Dumbledore of course. “Did you put your name in the cup? Get one of the older boys to do it for you?” he interrogated Harry and quickly responded with “No Sir… I am just as shocked as everyone here…” He trailed off and Dumbledore nodded.
“Very well then. There will be four champions this year instead” The gathered teachers were not impressed with the conclusion of the previous events but didn’t argue with the headmaster.

Draco POV:

Of course Potter gets to be in the Triwizard tournament, he is the ‘Chosen one’ after all. Merlin, why is he so annoying? Maybe he will die in this tournament and that will be him gone for good! Forever. He hasn’t come back to me to tell me that he has finished reading his books yet…It doesn’t surprise me he is a bit daft at times. I wish I didn’t walk out of the library as soon as I did a couple weeks ago, he looked so peaceful reading, it was rather cute and he is kinda nice to look at- WHYYY do I keep thinking of him in such disturbing manners, maybe this is why I haven’t seen him much aside from in classes. Maybe he can hear my thoughts or something…know that I’m thinking about… know I’m thinking about him…

I made some dumb badges… Written on them was ‘Potter Stinks’, originally they had ‘Support Cedric Diggory’ written on them, which was a bit boring… Maybe this will grab Potter’s attention, maybe he will come and talk to me, maybe I will find out if there is ‘maybe a bit more’ there like what Pansy had said to me a couple weeks ago after Potter and I were set up in the library.

I was just sitting in a tree one afternoon trying to catch Potter’s attention and this new Professor, I think his name is Mad Eye Moody, he came up to me and turned me into a Ferret. It was a weird feeling and worst of all everyone was looking at me and laughing. He tossed me around and I ended up in one of my mates pants…I think I’m traumatized for life now. The reason behind me being turned into a ferret was due to the fact that Professor Moody thought I was going to hex Potter? I just want to talk to him, normally I would love to hex him but things have been changing recently. I don’t know if this is a good or bad thing.

It is now early November and the first task is upcoming and approaching quickly. I hope the Durmstrang school wins, anyone from any other school BUT Hogwarts cannot win, I dislike Diggory and I have no idea how I currently feel about Potter, nor do I know how I’m supposed to feel, part of me hates his living being and the other part wants to hold his hand and hug him and- Nope not gonna think about that anymore.

Ron’s POV:

I’ve done it, I’ve worked up the courage to ask Hermione out! What if she rejects me…NO Ron don’t think like that. Alright, time to stop being such a cowardly loser!. I wander around the castle in an attempt to find Hermione and of course she is in the library, her nose stuck in a book. She puzzles me sometimes, how can she pay attention to a book of all things for so long to the point she finishes it the very same day she gets it out. I end up finding myself at her table. “Well hello Ron, what are you doing here of all places?” she questions. Merlin why did she question everything, I don’t know why but it makes it a lot harder for me to get my point across to her. “Uhhh…Well I was looking for you and I knew you would be here of all places because you like to read and all and you have probably read the whole library by now and now I am rambling on aren’t I?” I took a deep breath, steading my rising heart beating in my chest. She looked at me concerned. “Are you ok Ron?” Another question, great!
“Yea I’m fine” I quickly say “Would you like to go with me on a date to Hogsmeade?” I blurted it out, I had finally done it, faced my fears and… oh that look…I know that look. “Ron… uhh I’m flattered but I thought you would have known by now…I’m dating someone…” she trailed off. I probably looked like I had seen a ghost or two when she asked “Ron… are you ok? I hope this doesn’t affect our relationship, I would still love to be friends.” I just nodded and stood up
“Sorry for wasting your time… you can go back to your book now.” and I left just like that. She rejected me, I probably should have seen this coming and who was she already dating, surely Harry would know, but if he did why would he tell me to go for it, makes no sense. I didn’t hear Hermione calling out for me as I left.

General:

The first task was only a day away, the air was full of excited students and worried ones for both their friends and/or classmates. The champions were a mix of anxiety and boastfulness due to how popular some were getting due to all the attention and being chosen to participate, though everyone seemed to have it out for Harry, everyone seemed to look at him like he was some sort of plague that everyone was told to keep away from. Ron had grown distant from Harry as well due to the fact he told him to ask Hermione out even though she was already in a relationship. Pretty much everyone knows at this point apart from the oblivious Harry and Ron. Hermione is being treated as if she was an owl, delivering messages between the stubborn boys.

Harry POV:

Today is the day. Today is the day of the first task. I went into the tent where all the champions and some teachers were gathered, we were told to pick a dragon to fight from the bag and of course it was me to get the Hungarian Horntail, also known as one of the most dangerous dragons from the lot we were to dip and pick from. It's just my luck. One by one each champion was called out to face their dragon until I was the final one in the tent standing awkwardly waiting for my turn to arrive. Ready to get this over and done with. “Harry Potter” a loud voice boomed throughout the quidditch stadium. I walked slowly and emerged into the bright light, almost blinding, though I already am blind so there wouldn’t be that much of an effect on me… Just like that I was facing my own dragon, everyone was watching, especially my so called friends before this all happened and strangely Malfoy is looking at me intensively, he probably has a running beat with his mates on how long I will survive in the tournament. I brought my mind back to the game, ok we got this. I ran and as soon as I did a wall of fire appeared from the large dragon blocking my path, suddenly I found my broom? I got on and whizzed past the dragon and crowds. The dragon tried to fly up and catch me but the chain was in the way until it wasn’t… the chain snapped freeing the dragon, gasps echoed through the crowd. I turned around and SHIT it was right there, I quickly bolted away, dragon trying to catch me, it was close behind my trail. I was dodging blasts of fire left, right and centre. I flew over the school and for a minute I forgot the dragon was following me until I heard a loud crumble and turned to see what damage the dragon had done. Now was my time, I sped away as fast as my broom would allow, I got to the golden egg and picked it up, I had completed the challenge I did it! I held the egg high in the air, the crowd burst into cheers.

The celebration seemed to never end, it continued on into the Gryffindor common room where people were shouting and cheering, Ron hasn’t said anything to me since I won. I’ll talk to him later, I thought. “Who wants me to open it?” I was talking about the egg. I was sitting on top of Fred and George. Everyone yelled back a response of yes’s and celebratory noises. I opened the egg, Fred and George immediately dropped me to cover their ears, as well as everyone else in the room, the egg was screeching a horrid noise, I was quick to close the egg. Everyone sighed in relief at the lack of noise coming from the egg now. Hermione came up to me and gave me a hug. “Congrats” she said and handed me an envelope “Ron found it on your bed, presumably brought in by Hedwig, he wanted me to give it to you, I don’t know why you couldn’t have gotten it yourself or found it but anyways here” I took the envelope.
“Thanks” I said and took a look at the letter, it wasn’t Sirius’s or Remus’s handwriting but it looked familiar. I tore it open to find a piece of parchment that read “Meet me in the courtyard at 9pm sharp. -D.M” What did he want with me, maybe to tell me the running numbers on my head for when I am going to die. Well at least I have time before then to relax before dealing with him.

Chapter Text

Harry POV:

It’s now 6pm, three hours left until I am to meet up with Malfoy. I made my way to the great hall to gather for dinner, as I walked in my mates were already seated, though no one was giving me a kind look, I ended up sitting on the very end of the table rows, close to the exit. I sat alone, no one wanted to be seen with me or talk to me, funny that it was the complete opposite when I was eleven. All this over being chosen to be a champion unwillingly. Surely anyone would understand that I didn’t choose this for myself. That this is not some act I am putting on for everyone to watch. I did not want this for myself. Why can’t anyone understand? I was lost in thought thinking about everything that was going on when I forgot the time, Hooked up and almost everyone was gone, there were only a couple students from Slytherin and Gryffindor, including myself. I hadn’t touched my food nor was I hungry, I was already full of anger and rage. I stood and left, my body ached from task one.

Draco POV:

It’s almost time to meet with Har-Potter, I need to sort that out. I can't be going around calling him by his first name…People may think I’m ill. Potter hasn’t been having a great time lately, noticed in the Great Hall how everyone avoided him, fair enough time to get a taste of what it's like to be normal, to not have excessive attention due to a scar on your forehead. I don’t know why I’m ranting about stupid Potter.

Before I knew it, it was 8:57pm and I was heading my way over to the courtyard making sure not to get caught by any prefects on the walk there. As I arrived the moon was rising over the school, I stared for a while until a cough interrupted my gazing. I instead turned my gaze to look at Harry Potter standing in front of me, his arms folded to his chest with some sort of cloak hanging on his arm. It was a rather interesting pattern but I tried not to think too much of Potter's fashion sense.

Nice of you to join me, I pulled out my pocket watch “Two minutes late I see, what part about being here at 9pm sharp did you not get?” Potter just looked at me, clearly annoyed. “Never mind that, shall we go for a walk where we aren’t so out in the open?” I asked
“Sure…” he sounded skeptical
“I’m not going to harm you or pull a prank rather the opposite.” I lead the way out of the courtyard and into the open grounds of Hogwarts.

After a few minutes of walking we made our way over to the black lake, the moon reflecting on the surface of the water, stars glittering. It was a clear night and everything was visible in the night sky. “Why am I here Malfoy?” Potter asked as we stopped and sat down on some rocks, they were cold. “I have something I want to ask you…” I trailed off and looked at Potter, he seemed to be questioning it in his mind. “Want to form a truce between the two of us? Like obviously we would still insult each other in corridors but if we were to hang out we would have fun… I don’t know just a thought… We could potentially become friends as well and…” Potter interrupted me
“I would like that very much, Malfoy.” he stated “In private… Are we to call each other by first or last names?” he asked.
“In public only last names would be appropriate for the time being, in a situation like this, first names are acceptable.” I said he nodded and a grin spread across his face.
“Ok Draco.” He announced confidently “That sounds odd to say out of my mouth…” He told me.
I agreed with him and the night went on. Harry…That IS weird. Harry and I talked like we were old mates sitting by the lake and skimming stones.

Eventually I looked back down at my pocket watch, the time read 3:28am. Shit. “Hey Harry…” I said, glancing back up to meet his eyes with mine.” It's almost 3:30am…” His eyes widened at my statement and quickly he shot up.
“Shit time really went fast…How about we keep meeting up like this, it's nice, send me an owl during breakfast to tell me when we are to meet up next.” to this I nodded.
“I will do” and with that we walked back to the castle together.

“Do you need help getting back to your dorm unnoticed?” Harry asked me with a smile spreading across his face “In what way could you be of help, wouldn’t it be more obvious the two of us heading there?” I asked
“Well…I may have an invisibility cloak…” he casually stated and unfolds the cloak in his arms, throwing it over us, I gladly accepted the offer and we started our walk to my dorm, we were careful not to make too much noise, although we didn’t do a very good job as we kept on giggling about something random neither of us knew about but our subconscious did, causing the laughter.

After another 10 minutes of walking, careful not to disturb the paintings, we arrived at the Slytherin common room door. “This is where I leave you…” Harry trailed off
“I guess it is” I agreed
“I enjoyed tonight and hope to enjoy many more like it?” His statement was practically a question, though I wasn’t sure whether or not to answer it. “I hope to do the same, I will owl you over breakfast. I suggest that it is best not to tell your friends about our newly developed friendship. I assume they would not be the biggest of fans.” I stated and Harry nodded at my opinion. We said our goodbyes and I headed into my common room.

Harry POV:

Once Draco walked away from me and into his dim cold common room I made my way up flights of moving stairs in order to get back to my common room. By the time I got there it was getting close to 4:00 am.

Heading up to my shared room all I could think about was how Draco and I are now friends, words I did not think I would ever use in the same sentence. I giggled at the thought, Draco and I are friends! What a weird thing that is. But Draco is right about one thing, not to tell Ron or Hermione about our new friendship, Ron would freak out, though I think Hermine would eventually come around to the idea of it.

Rumors are spreading, Hermione’s in a relationship…People are suggesting that Viktor Krum and hooked up in a broom closet one day as someone believes to have seen the pair leaving the closet. I am not sure whether or not to believe the rumors to be true or whether I should just ask Hermione who it is, though it isn’t any of my concern of course. I am just worried for my best friend. And also for Ron, I mean he has had a crush on Hermione for a while now even if he thought she was a bit of a know-it-all to start off with, but that didn’t affect the friendship from blossoming, no matter the fall out we have had and are bound to have in the future.

I think of this all, waiting for my mind to go to sleep, allowing me to have the much needed rest I require after tonight's and this morning's adventures. No matter how hard I tried my mind kept drifting back to Draco, how I enjoyed his company and how he is actually a decent person once you get to chatting, and when we are not at each other's throats all the time. It will be weird fighting nowadays, we won’t actually mean anything we say, unless this is just some large elaborate prank he has going with his friends to get in my head during the triwizard tournament. I quickly removed such thoughts from my mind and closed my eyes.

I later woke up, grabbing my glasses from my bedside table, the usual sunrise that would be glimmering in through the windows was not, the sun had fully risen and the room was bright. I sprung out of bed and saw the time 11:28am “Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit” I exclaimed racing around the room and getting my uniform on. Why didn't anyone wake me up??

I made my way to Transfiguration, I was about 10 minutes late to the lesson by the time I stepped into the room. “Nice of you to join us Mr Potter” McGonagall announced, everyone turned heads as I quickly found a seat near the front of the class. Hermione and Ron were seated in front of me. Hermione turned around and placed a letter on my desk “Arrived for you at breakfast but you were obviously a no show, so here you go” she said in a hushed voice.
“Thanks” I said and smiled, she turned back around and continued to work through the text book they had been given, most likely at the start of the lesson, I don’t remember being given it in any other lessons.

Half way through the lesson a ball of paper goes flying and hits me square on the back of the head. I immediately turned to see what it was and picked up the piece of parchment from the floor and uncrumpled it. It read ‘Meet me after class, just hang around longer or wait outside? See you then, also your uniform is rather sloppy. - D.M’. Of course Draco comments on how I am presented, I was in a rush this morning so there is that…

Class came to an end and I slowly packed up ensuring little people were present in class. I waited until they had all left but Draco and I. I approached him, “You wanted to talk?” I asked and he nodded “Yes, just not here. Follow me but not too close behind” I agreed and off we went. Draco led me to the library. We found a vacant booth and sat down. “So where were you at breakfast?” he asked of course.
“I…uh slept in, I wasn’t able to sleep much until early hours of the morning, and no one woke me up for class…” I said, he smirked.
“What? Thinking of me Ha-Potter sorry?” He asked, I chuckled. We were to only use first names when we were in private- That sounds odd now I think about it- anyways. “Why are you going red Potter?” Draco questioned and I quickly hid my face and laughed.
“I don’t know why this keeps happening to me…” I trailed off. Draco again smirked at my answer. “I know I’m attractive Potter, but no need to stare!” Draco laughed, he actually laughed.

I hid my face further into my hands. My attention was snapped back when I heard somewhat of a familiar voice. “Draco what are you doing here? And hanging out with Potter of all people?” It was Pansy. “Just chatting” Draco said, how was he so calm in this moment? “Ready to go then?” He asked Pansy she nodded and briskly walked off, Draco quickly said goodbye and trailed along behind her.

General POV:

“Soooo” Pansy started off with.
“Sooo…?” Draco repeated in question
“Are you and Harry friends or ‘friends’” she asked excitedly. Draco rolled his eyes at her and her question. “Potter and I have only just established being friends, literally this morning, or well last night. We hung out till about 3:40am. That’s why Potter came in so late to transfiguration” Draco caught Pansy up on the recent events of his life. “I’m sooo happy for you, I’m sure you will be more than friends in no time at all!” she exclaimed. They then continued to walk to the great hall for some lunch before classes started again.

Chapter Text

General POV:

Christmas was quickly approaching. Hogwarts was getting more and more festive, trees spread out through the castle as well as other decorations. There are about six days left until the students leave, which is on the 21st of December. Harry is not required to stay behind this year as he has a loving little family to go back to, Sirius and Remus would be at Kings Cross station on Platform 9 and ¾ awaiting his arrival.

Sirius POV:

“Moony” I called out from where I was sat in the sitting room of our home.
“Yes Pads?” he answered as he walked in, Merlin's beard, he is hot. A smirk spread across my face, I want to do some very bad things to him. “Have we got everything ready for when Prongslet arrives in a week?” I asked and Remus was quick to respond.
“I believe we do have everything ready for when Harry arrives.” He exclaimed in a tone that it made me roll my eyes. For Christmas we were surprising Harry with adoption papers, so he does not have to go to the Dursleys house ever again. Moons and I do not want him in that environment anymore, that has caused him enough pain and stress to last him many lifetimes. Moony sat down next to me on the sofa with a book in his hand, I love him so much. I lay down with my head placed in his lap. He smiled at me, placing one of his lovely hands into my hair and playing with it. Merlin I love when he plays with my hair, it feels so nice and soothing.

We were like that for who knows how long but it was getting dark. I cuddled closer to my moony as the night grew colder, I’m not sure how I got into bed, assuming Moons carried me. All I think about is how much I miss Harry, I can’t wait for when he finds out we are adopting him. I check my watch, and it reads 1:09 am.

I turn my head to see Rem fast asleep, his arms wrapped around me, his head buried in the crook of my neck, his breathing tickling each time he exhales. It was nice, this is nice, this is good, this is safe. I never thought I would be back at Grimmauld place, the place that I was tortured for many years of my life. The place that James helped me escape from. The place I use to hate has become home. More of a home than it ever has been in the past. Nowadays it feels homely enough for Remus and I to settle in, Harry here some of the time too when he isn’t at school.

I wake the next morning to the smell of coffee, 5 days until we get to see our boy. Moons is sitting up in bed with a warm cup of coffee in hand. I lay on his lap with my arms wrapped around his waist. I look up at him and he looks back down at me. We both smile and I bury my face back into Moony.

“5 more days left” I mumbled
“What was that Pads?” he asked me while brushing his fingers through my long black hair. It was a mess, I mean it always is. I lifted my head up to look at him “5 more days until we get to see Harry” I said smiling
“5 more days” Remus repeated, smiling back and taking a sip of coffee. I closed my eyes again and snuzzled my way back to my previous position.

Draco POV:

I haven’t a clue as to what I am going to do for Christmas. Obviously I will go home, but it is so dull and boring there, nor do I want to go back to my Father after the last time I saw him, I didn’t leave on a good foot. No doubt he will have a stern talking to me about Merlin knows what. Mother will be as quiet as usual, she barely sticks up for me when Father is mad, it's not her fault I know that but as my Mother I feel as if she should step in when he starts to get physical…That sounds wrong…I wonder what Harry will be doing for Christmas he will probably be here as per usual. He always stays at Hogwarts for Christmas. I only know this as I don't see him getting on the train nor off of it. Unless he goes home with Weasley.

I grabbed a piece of parchment from my desk and began to write a quick short note to Harry… “Hey, wanna meet up before break starts? How about tomorrow night? Reply when you can. -D.M” I signed in my usual, put the parchment into an envelope and wrote “H.P” on the front and gave it to Eurasian my family’s owl.

The next morning at breakfast Eurasian swooped down and dropped a letter on my plate “Sounds good to me! Meet in the usual spot at 9? - H.P” I smiled and nodded to myself but quickly removed the smile from my face. I looked up to see none other than Harry looking in my direction. I nodded, gesturing to the note and he smiled happily until a nosy Granger asked what he was looking at. That's what I am guessing anyways because he was quick to pull away from our eye contact and to somewhat brush Granger off. She looked confused and suspicious until she caught eyes with I think it was Pansy? She went a violent shade of red, did a weird little smile and quickly turned her head.

I turn my attention to a now very read Pansy. “What's up with you? Why are you so red all of a sudden?” I asked though I had already guessed the answer. She looked at me and I think she got more embarrassed as she seemed to go even more red if that was even possible at this point in time. “Uhh…Nothing. I’m not red…Your red!” she exclaimed, quickly hiding her face from me. “Uh huh and this has nothing to do with Granger who practically had the same reaction as when you two locked eyes?” I asked Pansy slowly turned back to me
“I’ll tell you later, in private, alone.” She gestured around us to the fellow Slytherins who would be most definitely eavesdropping especially if someone like Pansy is bright as bright as Merlin knows what. She’s not the type to burn such colour. Breakfast came to an end and we headed off to Charms class.

General POV:

The clock tower struck 9:00 pm Harry was waiting for Draco in the courtyard. He could hear footsteps around the corner. He quickly hid himself behind one of the beams. Thankfully it was just Draco. He looked around the courtyard for Harry until he spotted the startled young boy holding the pole like it was his last lifeline. Draco chuckled at the sight.

Draco POV:

He looks like he has seen a ghost. Though that is a common occurrence at Hogwarts. I smirk and approach Harry. He seems to relax. “Thought you were a teacher or a prefect.” he said
I laughed “Well clearly I’m not, ready to go? Before we actually do get caught by a prefect or a teacher?” I asked. He nodded, I grabbed his wrist, I’m not sure as to why I did but it kind of just felt right.

We made our way to the black lake, the moon shimmered off the pitch black surface of the water. We sat down in a secluded area where no one would be able to spot them.

“Excited for the Yule ball?” I asked, nudging his shoulders a bit with a smirk rising on my face.
“No. No I am not, nor do I have a date STILL I mean I need a date to dance with for the traditional champions dance or whatever.” He sighed loudly after finishing his answer. I laughed a bit. “So…” He trailed off.
“Soo…?” I said in a questioning tone.
“Do you have a date yourself?” He asked, I wasn’t prepared though I know I should have figured he would ask such a question.
“Uhh…No, not yet though I will most likely just ask Pansy if she wants to go with me, safe option plus she is a lesbian. Safe. She won’t be clinging or develop feelings for me over the night. Though I’m not sure if she and Granger will risk going together…” I looked up to see Harry looking rather confused at my statement.
“What do you mean Pansy and Hermione risking it?” He asked
“Shit- Granger hasn’t told you? Hermione and Pansy have been going out for a while, they are girlfriends…” He looked like he had seen Merlin himself.
“WHAT, I thought Hermione would have told me that! No wonder Ron was mad at me after he went to ask Hermione out to Hogsmeade. He would have obviously been turned down…” I placed a hand on his shoulder “Breathe Harry” I told him and he obliged.

We continued to talk for the rest of the night into the early hours of the morning until we decided to go back on our own paths to our common rooms.

General POV:

A day passed since their meet up and it was time for the Yule Ball dance lessons. Not many seemed to be enthusiastic about learning some new moves.

Harry POV:

The Yule ball, I totally forgot about it since I talked to Draco yesterday. My house was called in to practice dances for the night it was to take place, Christmas. Shit- Christmas, I wouldn’t see Pads or Moony until the 26th of December.

I make a mental note to write them a letter after all the dancing nonsense is over.

I continued the practice, the boys were just sitting around. We didn't want to participate in DANCING of all ghastly things to learn at Hogwarts. Why was it dancing? Of all things to teach at a magic school, you teach muggle moves. It was rather boring until Professor McGonagall called upon none other than Ron to demonstrate to the class how we were to dance. It was a great laugh. Fred and George were loving it, they were not going to let him live this one down. Nor the fact that Ron had to place his hands on her hips. McGonagall corrected Ron on multiple occasions when he tried to move his hands from her hips.

It was then our turn to show what we learned. I forgot about this part. All the girls got up so excitedly as well as Neville. On our side of the room we were all groaning about having to get up and practice dancing.

McGonagall finally released us from one of the worst forms of torment I think I have ever experienced.

I woke that night to find Neville up. He was dancing, actually dancing though he looked rather asleep? Was he seriously sleep dancing? There was no way. I got up and tapped him on the shoulder and he did not react. NO WAY. I am not letting him live this down. I chuckled to myself.

That’s when I realized I still needed to send a message to pads and Moony. I got to writing

“Hi Pads and Moony,

I totally forgot to tell you but the Yule Ball is on and I am obviously required to go…It's on the 25th of December so I won’t be there for Christmas with you guys but I will be there the following day.

I miss you both tons and I can’t wait to see you soon.

Love Harry”

I placed my quill down, reread the letter and I nodded at my work. I found an envelope and placed the parchment inside and addressed it to Grimmauld place. I will take it to the owlery in the morning I thought as I yawned and crawled back into the warmth of my bed. Neville was still dancing a bit but it was dying off, slowly, hopefully he might go to bed soon I thought. I shut my eyes.

I woke the next morning to the blinding sun streaming in on my already partially blind eyes. I reached for my glasses and sat up putting them on. I then remembered the letter I wrote to Pads and Moony that I was to take to the owlery that morning. I quickly got dressed for the day, collected the letter from where I placed it last night and headed out to send it off.

As I was walking there I spotted a certain Slytherin ferret going to the owlery as well. I closed in on him pretty quickly and yelled out to him, I checked beforehand of course to make sure there were no other students around, which there weren’t due to the early hours of the morning. He turned around and saw me. A smirk appeared on his face but quickly faded as he checked his surroundings, just as I had done.

“Well hello Harry.” He said in a pleasant tone “Surprised to see you awake so early” he exclaimed. I laughed. “Sending a letter home about the Yule Ball, how about you, what are you doing in the owlery?” I asked as we walked in the room, loud squawking surrounding Draco and I. “Same here, forgot to mention the ball was happening and I need a suit to be tailored for me by this weekend” He approached his owl and gave it a pet as well as the letter and she flew off with it. I smiled at his kindness and found Hedwig. I gave her a treat before giving her a scratch on the head and the letter. She flew off as well.

I turned back to Draco “I have utterly no idea as to what I am going to wear to the ball.” I casually said as I patted the other owls that were currently there. Draco looked a bit shocked but then he said “You would look good in a tux..” He trailed off. I raised an eyebrow at him which made him chuckle a bit before he straightened himself back up. “I suppose a tux wouldn’t look too bad huh.” I said “Only problem is I need to actually go and get one…” I mumbled a bit to myself. We walked out of the owlery together.

“Who do you plan to be taking?” Draco asked me. I feel blush rise on my cheeks. “Uhh…I’m not sure yet, probably won’t end up taking anyone” I laughed to myself, I think I was trying to make myself feel better about the situation. “Well you better hurry because the champions have to have the first dance with their date. I mean if you're desperate I could lend a hand” he said laughing a bit.
“Not sure that would be allowed with the restrictions at the dance.” I said Draco almost looked somewhat disappointed at my statement. We continued to talk about the ball but eventually parted ways due to the increase of students in the general area we were in.

I already miss him… Is that bad? I mean we are ONLY friends, and friends can miss each other…right?

I received a letter over breakfast as well as a package from Pads and Moony. They were rather quick to respond the letter read:

“Hey Pots,

That’s unfortunate, but we can’t wait to celebrate Christmas with you on the 26th! Have a special surprise planned for you!!!

Lots of Love

Pads and Moons

P.s Thought you might need something to wear for the Yule Ball, it should fit as it adjusts to you and your size. Good luck and wish you well, hopefully you find a nice girl to take or boy…we don’t mind either way as long as you are happy.”

I smiled at the letter. Gathering my things I headed to the Gryffindor common room where I opened the package without many eyes on me, watching my every move. It was a white and black tux. I grinned. Draco would be pleased at this selection. I wonder how Draco was getting on with finding dress robes for the ball.

I placed my package on my bed with the letter and headed to the first lesson of the day…History of magic…yay. It was one of my most boring classes, I really only enjoy watching Draco while he reads- I need to stop thinking about him.

Draco POV:

The Yule ball is tomorrow, I have finally sorted out my dress robes. One thing I am yet to sort out would be a date. Pansy is going with Granger, supposedly? Leaving me with no other possible candidates that would be pleasant enough to hold a conversation with. Although there is one other person I could possibly go with, it would just have to be friends as I don’t know if he has those sort of feelings about me. Harry Potter. He needs a date. I need a date. It works out pretty perfectly for the both of us. Plus unlike Harry I can actually dance. I must prepare my feet for how many times they are to be stepped on by the clumsy oaf.

I found Harry and Weasley outside Hogwarts heading to Hagrid's shack. I quickly ran up behind him. As I got closer I slowed down to a brisk walking pace. “Potter.” I yelled out, both Harry and Weasley turned to me. “What do you want, Malfoy?” Ron snapped back at me.
“Nothing to do with you Weasel. Potter, come with me for a second. I want to talk to you without the red head.” I stated Harry nodded and followed me.
“Go on without me Ron I’ll meet you there” Harry said. Weasley hesitated but obliged and headed on his way. I led Harry to the base of a tree.

“Soo…How’s it going finding a date for the ball?” I asked
“No luck, you?” he asked
“Same here, say I was wondering, we both don’t have dates and the ball is tomorrow how about we just go together? As friends of course. It may confuse people but it's better than dancing on your own for the special champion dance.” Harry took this into consideration.
“We will get weird looks, rumours might start and I already have enough of those…” Harry trailed off. “You alright?” he asked. I must have looked a bit disappointed so I was quick to change my expression. “So is it a yes or a no?” I asked.
“I really shouldn’t…But I won’t be able to find anyone else to go with so yes.” There was a small trace of blush appearing on his face after telling me yes. HE SAID YES! Harry Potter and I will be going to the Yule ball. TOGETHER. I smiled and nodded. “Awesome, I’ll meet you…” I trailed off.
“The courtyard?” He asked.
“The courtyard.” I confirmed.
And with that Harry ran off to Hagrid’s hut and I went on my way to the library for some study.

General POV:

The Yule ball was just an hour away from starting. Everyone was doing their final touches on their outfits and makeup. Some were meeting up with their dates beforehand. Some were just meeting up during the ball.

Pansy POV:

It’s now 7:43 pm, just 17 minutes left until Hermione and I are officially out as a couple. I’m petrified. I am yet to meet with Hermione. We agreed on meeting at 7:45 pm just outside the library, not sure why, but she is my little bookworm so I can’t blame her, might make her more relaxed? I don’t know but I am heading my way there now. Before I left the common room I caught a glimpse at Draco, he looked nice. Not sure who he was taking to the ball though. I made it to the library where I was greeted by a very stressed Hermione. I took one look at her “Breathe, it will all be ok? Alright?” She nodded. I took a look at her dress, it was beautiful, pink, layering all over different shades of pink were used too. “You look stunning” I said, my breath taken from me due to such a lovely sight. “You look quite nice yourself” She said blush forming across her face. I smiled. I was wearing a flowing dress, the shade was a dark sage green, there were not as many layers as Hermione’s but it still had some, enough to make an effect but not enough for it to be too big or poofy. Hermione’s dress was the perfect balance.

She still looked to be panicked, I quickly but carefully pulled her in for a hug, as I hugged her I placed a kiss on her cheek, then her jawline and I eventually found my way down to her neck. I was glad no one was around, no one there to share our moment. My kisses seemed to cheer her up a bit, as I pulled away from her she was smiling from ear to ear.

We chatted for a bit, while we were free from the eyes of our soon to be audience. Until we realised the time and had to make our way to the great hall entryway.

Harry POV:

I honestly wished we were going as more than friends…I really like hanging out with Draco and I feel like a rumour is about to start so it would just make the rumours true.

I was doing the final touches to my dress robes when Ron walked out in his, a strong smell followed him from the behind. I had to stop myself from laughing. “I look like my Aunt Tessie!” he exclaimed in horror. I smiled and patted his shoulder “I’ll see you there?” I asked him. He nodded back as a response.

I made my way to the courtyard to meet with Draco. I found him already there, he was pacing “Thought you weren’t going to show for a bit there” he said
“You look nice” I said though I’m not sure if that sounded like a friendly compliment or something more… “Thanks, you look good yourself” Draco replied. We both shared a moment where we were staring into the others eyes, Draco’s eyes were a glittering grey in the moonlight and not their usual icy feel.

“Shall we get going? We will be late otherwise.” Draco pointed out.
“Shit your right quick, let's go.” We both hurried our ways to the great hall. Draco a bit more time, I assume he doesn't want to mess up his robes or hair.

As we entered the great hall with the other champions and their partners we got a few strange looks but nothing really unsurprising. Ron looked as if he had seen Merlin himself and then gritted his teeth and crossed his arms. Draco and I shared the first dance along with the other champions, it was great fun and I only stepped on Draco’s feet like two times! New record.

The night continued on with many strange looks but overall fun. There was no doubt that a rumour would start about Draco and I dating or some shit like that. We are only friends even though we shouldn’t even be that, especially not out in public. We were playing it dangerously.

Half way through the band playing I told Draco I had a headache and I left the Yule ball to find some peace and quiet. Though Draco followed me. “Are you alright Harry?” he asked.
“Yea, just really loud in there, getting a bit of a headache plus the amount of people staring doesn’t help.” I stated and Draco nodded. I sat down on some steps, Draco followed my lead. He sat up perfectly straight while I was slumped over with my head in my hands.

All of a sudden Draco gently held my face and pulled it close to mine and then we kissed. I was shocked but I didn’t back out. I kissed him back. We sat there passionately kissing each other until Draco was the one to pull away. His eyes were wide like he had just committed murder. “I’m sorry” he said and ran away quickly. I was too in shock to follow him after the events that had just taken place.

General POV:

The Yule ball flew by incredibly fast and before anyone knew it they were pretty much all packing their bags to take home with them for the Christmas holidays. Harry hadn’t a clue as to what he should pack, this is the first time he will not be at either the Dursleys or Hogwarts for Christmas. His first Christmas with a real family that loves him. Draco wasn’t packing though, he was confused he was questioning himself. What did he just do to Harry? Why did he do it? Panic was high on the erosion.

Chapter Text

Draco POV:

Instead of packing I found myself sitting on my bed after the ball, why did I do that, I’m not gay? What if someone saw us? My father would have my head. I did enjoy the few seconds it lasted though… But what does this mean? Am I actually gay? I mean I never have had feelings for anyone, no girls and I’m guessing from Harry and I snogging moments ago that I do like guys, I thought quietly in the back of my mind. My chest started to tighten, this has only happened a few other times before when my father would punish me for something I had done. Of course I never acted in such ways in front of him but rather in the comfort of my own room that was far from any sort of comfort.

My breathing started to speed up, “I can’t breathe” I muttered to myself over and over again, my hands on top of my chest and throat trying to help myself, tears streaming down my cheeks, memories of the ball flashing past…

Pansy and Hermione danced together, everyone was happy for them. Ron glaring at Harry and I as we danced. Harry and I kissed outside the great hall. I ran away.

I ran away from Harry! I need to apologise to him, explain what happened, and tell him it was a mistake. He kissed me back though…

I was snapped out of my thoughts.

“Draco!” Pansy’s voice came from somewhere, not really sure where, my vision was blurred and my hearing had diminished through the course of my panic attack. My body felt numb but yet some warmth reached me.

I was pulled into a hug, though I couldn’t bring my body to move nor to hug back. All I could do was cry, so I did, not sure as to who’s shoulder I was crying into.

It took me several moments for myself to calm down and for my vision and hearing to be restored. Once I had gained sight again I saw Pansy crouched down next to me. “Why are you here? Why aren’t you with Granger?” I asked, my voice hoarse and shaky.
“I’m here because I’m worried about you, I couldn’t find you after you and Potter danced at the ball, figured Potter had something to do with your state. Hermione has gone with him to ask him what happened, as you were not in a state to be answering her complex questions.” She explained. I nodded a tear rolling down my cheek, my voice wobbling as I said “I kissed him…” Pansy gasped.
“That’s amazing Draco!” she exclaimed.
“He kissed me back” A large sob came out as I said that.
“So what's the issue?” She asked.
“We kissed, I’m not supposed to be gay. We could have been caught! My father could find out! If he did find out he would have my head.” I managed to get out.

Harry POV:

I was going to follow Draco when I was finally snapped out of shock. Pansy and Hermione had just caught Draco running away from me. Then I felt warmth creep beside me. I look to my right to see Hermione sitting with me, her hand placed on my shoulder. Pansy walks off “If you stay with him I’ll go find Draco”. Pansy stated as he hastily followed the route Draco took.

“So what happened to lead Draco running off and you frozen?” Hermione asked, intrigued.
“We kissed,” I murmured.
“Did he not like it? Is that why he ran?” She pressed.
“I don’t know, he initiated it, I kissed him back, then we sort of were going at it for a couple of seconds, then he hops up and runs just before the two of you entered, I’m guessing all you saw was Draco running away?” I finally finished. Hermione nodded.

This was my first kiss, it probably sucked, that may be why Draco ran from me. He didn’t want to tell me to my face how bad of a kisser I am. I chuckled to myself. Hermione raised an eyebrow at me.
“I was just thinking he ran away as that was my first kiss and it was probably terrible” a small smile crept on my face, Hermione looked surprised.
“That was your first kiss?” she exclaimed, shock took control of her face.
“I’m assuming that you have had your first kiss due to your reaction?” I asked grinning, Hermione turned a rose red, she must have been thinking of a time that she and Pansy had kissed.

Hermione POV:

I could tell Harry was concerned and scared as to what he could have done to earn the reaction that he received from Malfoy. I am happy for him and surprised that that was only his first kiss. It makes sense though we are only 14 and death follows him wherever he goes.

“Right best get you to the dormitories” I say standing up and providing Harry my hand as a support to help him stand. He takes it.
“I suppose so, I want to check on Draco to make sure he is ok though…” He trailed off.
“I’ll go find Pansy later on and ask her how he is for you, I’m not sure if it is the best idea for you guys to see one another as we both know the strong reaction Malfoy had to your kiss.” I stated Harry nodded.

We made our way to the dormitories, the staircases were of course playing about tonight, making the trip back exceptionally long, almost 30 minutes of waiting for the correct staircase leading to the Gryffindor tower.

Pansy POV:

I got a quick message from Hermione to meet up at 9:20 pm outside my dorms, most likely in the situation that had just taken place. I feel bad for Harry, he must feel so confused, I wonder if he is even gay or bisexual or maybe he was just questioning and wanted answers.

It is now 9:15 pm, I head out and make my way outside the Slytherin common room, of course Hermione was already there waiting for my arrival, there were few students around, majority were snogging in a corner or making their way back to their dorms for probably more snogging.
“Hey” I said in a flirtatious manner.
“Hi” she said, a flush of pink creeps upon her face.

We talked about the events of the evening, I told her how Draco was worried that his father would find out he is gay, if he is gay. Draco wasn’t quite ready to put a label on it just yet. Hermione told me how Harry is just worried he did something wrong which pulled on my heart strings, he thought that he was a bad kisser, I think he was alright if he made Draco question his sexuality! I don’t know of many people Draco has liked, if any, nor do I know of anyone to make him question who he actually likes in the long run, whether that will be men or women, or both, or someone of a completely different gender identity.

General POV:

Pansy and Hermione went their separate ways after hugging and saying goodbye to one another as they wouldn’t see each other for a short while.
By the time it was morning, almost everyone was packed and ready for the Hogwarts express, to see their families they have missed ever so much. Harry was thrilled to be seeing his true family that wasn’t the Dursley’s.

Harry POV:

I grabbed my trunk as well as my final belongings for our short break. We all made our way to the train and loaded our gear on. I’m still tired from the Yule ball as well as confused due to Draco avoiding me, though Hermione helped me clear a few things up. I guess it makes sense that he is afraid as to what his father may say if people start talking if anyone was to see us.

I saw Draco once, since last night, as we were boarding he was headed to the Slytherin compartments. I smiled and did a small wave towards him though he ignored me.

Ron, Hermione and I made our way to an empty compartment. Ron and I sat on one side while Hermione sat opposite of us.

As the train started moving, we were all talking about the Yule ball, Hermione and I decided it would be best not to tell Ron as to what had happened between Draco and I.

The compartment doors made a loud thud which broke our conversation. Pansy Parkinson. Standing in the doorway with a grin on her face.
“What are you doing here?” Hermione asked, her cheeks were bright red as she tucked a piece of her wild hair behind her ear and looked straight at Parkinson.
“Thought I would say hello to my wonderful girlfriend!” She exclaimed “Plus Draco is being git” she added looking in my direction then quickly back to Hermione.

For the rest of the train ride Hermione and Parkinson were chatter boxes, occasionally I would hear my name in their conversations though it would be said in a hushed tone, probably so I didn’t hear, wasn’t effective.

Ron and I would occasionally laugh about something either of us had said, otherwise we stayed pretty quiet throughout the journey.

The trolley lady came past with sweets at some point, Hermione and Parkinson got a mix of sweets in which they would share together, I didn’t get anything, Ron got Bertie Bot’s Every Flavour Bean. They mean every flavour.

I must have nodded off at some point as I don’t remember the trip being so quick. We had arrived at platform 9 and ¾.

Sirius POV:

Today is the day, I barely slept a wink last night thinking about how we get to see Prongslet. I’ve been through his room more times than I can count, making sure everything is there and set up ready for Harry’s arrival.

Remus has only just woken up, so I brought him a coffee. He was grateful for that as he is not a morning person at all. Nor am I but my energy is bursting from its seams.

It was about 6 pm, Harry would be arriving at Kings Cross around 7 pm. Leaving an hour for us to get ready and leave Grimmauld place, though we will just apparte our way there when the time is near.

Moony came into the lounge where I had decoratively thrown my body on the sofa. I beamed up at him as he walked in, he looked hot.
“Does this look ok? I’m not sure if it is ok…” he trailed off, but quickly continued to doubt his styling. I was quick to get up and pull him into a kiss, he kissed back. I pulled away.
“You look amazing, don’t ever doubt yourself again, you hear me?” I was grinning, Rem grinned back and nodded, I pulled him into a hug where we stood like that for a couple of minutes until I realised I was still yet to get ready.
“Moons, I gotta get ready too” I said while releasing him from my hold, he sighed and nodded.
“Alright but be quick we don’t want to be late to pick up Harry, he may think we have forgotten him.” Remus said this got me on high alert as I quickly ran upstairs to our shared room and rummaged through my wardrobe. I found a suit that looked casual while making it look like I put effort into my outfit.

I would love to be wearing some skinny jeans and a leather jacket right now but I don’t feel like that would be appropriate nor would it look good as my body has significantly changed since I was in my 20’s.

“You almost ready Pads? It's time to leave!” Moony yelled from downstairs, I quickly grabbed a few final things and popped my head into Harry’s room and nodded to myself in approval, I hope he likes it.

I thunder down the stairs, nerves and excitement flowing through my veins. I grab Remus’s arm and we apparate to platform 9 and 3⁄4 's. Harry’s Train has not yet arrived.

Remus POV:

Sirius is practically jumping up and down at how excited he is to see Harry. Don’t get me wrong I’m excited to but not jumping to show.

After ten minutes the Hogwarts Express arrives, just the same as I remember it when we used to go to Hogwarts. Students flooded out of the train. Sirius was trying to get a view to see if he could see Harry. After about 2 minutes Harry came out of the train and made direct contact with us. Not sure if it was by chance or the fact Sirius has been yelling out his name, too excited to contain his joy.

Harry quickly made his way to us but was stopped by a student I vaguely remember from teaching at Hogwarts last year, a young girl in Harry’s year. I overhear the conversation.

“Did you hear, Draco Malfoy was kissing some guy outside the Yule ball, do you know who? You two were dancing together at the start…” She trailed off and Harry shrugged but he looked scared.

“You alright Pots? You look like you have seen a ghost” Sirius laughed and pulled Harry in for a hug. “I-I was the one kissing Draco…” He said in a shocked demeanor. I pulled him in for a hug as well.

“We will grab your stuff and then we can talk about this further when we get home.” I said, Harry nodded and went off to collect his belongings. I eyed Sirius.

“Do you think he is gay?” Sirius asked.
“No clue, but whatever he identifies as, we support him”. I said and Sirius nodded in agreement.

Harry eventually came back carrying Hedwig's cage as well as his trunk. Sirius took his trunk, I took his owl and then we apparated.
General POV:

Harry, Remus and Sirius arrive at Grimmauld place, Harry still in shock, barely saying anything. Sirius led Harry to his room which was rather spacious compared to the cupboard and Dudley's second room. Sirius sat on the bed and Harry joined him. Remus standing in the doorway. They need to talk about the newly found information.

Chapter Text

Remus POV:

“So…” Sirius trailed off “Uh, you went to the Yule Ball with Draco? That’s great Pots, really happy for you, but what was that girl saying about Draco kissing someone outside where the Yule Ball takes place?” He asked in a concerned tone, worried for Harry.

“I-I. He umm.. He kissed me when we were outside. I had said to him that I needed a break as I wasn’t feeling my best. He followed me out, we sat down on the steps and then he just went for it and kissed me. I-I kissed him back. Draco must have seen the person who caught us, as he ran away rather quickly. The person must have run away too. Pansy and Hermione found me just as Draco had fled.” Harry finished and took a deep breath.

“You like him?” I asked curiously.
“Well I think so, I’m not entirely sure but I do believe I have feelings for him, I get flustered when we hang out, I have these weird dreams about him in less clothes then what is considered to be appropriate.” Harry exclaimed, blush rising on his face, he shoved his face into his hands to attempt to hide his embarrassment. Sirius and I nodded, neither of us really knew how to handle a situation like this.

“Yea, that’s definitely a crush if i have ever seen one.” Sirius said, looking at me with a small smile spread on his face as well as a tinge of blush.

“Then what do I do about it? I don’t think he is willing to talk to me! And what happens when people figure out it was me he kissed? What if he spills as revenge for him being outed?” Harry frantically said his hands were now fidgeting with his sleeve. I stepped into the room, taking a seat on the other side of Harry.

“Harry, first breathe.” I said, “You can’t do much about it right now, if you wanted, you could send him a letter. If people find out it was you he kissed, which they probably won’t figure it was you. You can’t stop people from making their own discoveries and as for Malfoy telling others it was you is highly unlikely as if that spread to his Father. Malfoy would be in deep trouble, knowing how Lucius can be about homosexuality, he isn’t particularly open to such a topic, especially when it comes to his own son.” I explained this, which seemed to calm Harry down a bit. Sirius gazed at me, smiling, I smiled back towards him.

“I think if you wanted to, send him a letter, see if he responds, if not wait until school goes back and confront him there.” Sirius stated. Harry nodded along.

“I might send him a letter in the morning, after I sleep on it… Thank you both so much” Harry smiled

“Of course, we’ll let you rest and we can talk about this again in the morning if you want to?” I asked, Harry nodded. “Oh and Merry late Christmas” I smiled and gave him a hug before leaving him to fend off against his very own thoughts

Sirius and I stood to leave him be for the time being, shutting his door behind us and heading to our room. This happened to be not far from Harry’s door, just around the corner.

“He will be alright won’t he Moony?” Sirius asked, concerned as we made our way to our room.

“Of course he will be, he's gone through tougher things, and this time he has us there to love and support his needs and wishes” I told him rubbing circles on his back. Sirius took a seat on our bed, and proceeded to get ready for the night's sleep ahead. I followed not far behind him.

“So…When do you want to give Harry the adoption papers?” Sirius asked, looking at me as I changed, I was still a bit self conscious as to how I look considering the amount of scarring I had present on my body. Though, Sirius made me feel loved and supported me always.

“We can see how he is tomorrow and if he is ok by then we can give them then. If not tomorrow, then the following day” I stated climbing into bed and pulling the covers over myself. Sirius nodded and crawled in next to me and cuddled into me. Sirius claimed I was his personal heater, which I take as a compliment, not sure as to how one is supposed to take on a comment like that. As always, Sirius was freezing cold, especially his hands and feet which had made their way around my body, stealing my warmth.

“You shithead, why are you always so bloody cold” I said as I was trying to drift off to sleep. Sirius didn’t say anything but the smile that crept onto his face as he proceeded to provide me with more of his freezing body.

General POV:

Sirius and Remus cuddled in together, getting a much needed rest. Harry took a few more hours of overthinking and panicking in order to get to sleep, but eventually he did, though the sleep was restless and he only managed to get a few hours of sleep.

Harry POV:

I awoke to birds chirping and to loud clattering noises being made down stairs, I woke startled as I had thought I was at the Dursley’s house and had forgotten to get up to make the fat shits breakfast, sorry I mean Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon and dear Dudley, I rolled my eyes at the thought of them. I then remembered the events of the previous days.

Anxiety and worry crept over me taking control, my breath had shortened and rapidly sped up to the point it was a pure struggle to breathe. I had to make sure I was quiet in order not to disturb Moony or Pads downstairs. Tears threatened to fall. Footsteps could be heard wandering about the house, this made Harry forcefully make himself stop breathing and to try his best to relax.

About 5 minutes later Remus knocked on Harry’s door. “Hi Pots, you up?” Remus asked behind the door. Harry took a few moments to sort himself out before he managed to get out a response.

“Yea I am” He managed to say.

“Is it alright if I come in?”

“If you wanna” he said though his voice was hoarse and crackly. Remus opened the door and must have seen the state of Harry, his face was reddish and sort of puffy as though he had been crying, his breathing was somewhat in control now but his breaths were clearly laboured.
Remus took a seat on the end of Harry’s bed and presented a warm smile. “Are you alright? You look as though you have been crying and your breathing pattern is a bit messy…” He trailed off.

“I’m fine, had a scare that I was at the Dursley’s house, then I realised I wasn’t, one because I hadn’t been yelled at to get up and make them breakfast and two because the room is like three times bigger than Dudley’s spare room and his actual room combined, though I was never allowed in his room.” Harry finished, Moony looked at him with love and care.

“You and most certainly not there, Sirius and I would never yell at you, unless you killed someone, even then we probably wouldn’t yell. Also you are definitely not getting up to make breakfast in the mornings, we want you to relax as much as possible, no chores allowed while you are staying with us.” Remus said warmly. “When do you plan to write a letter to the young Malfoy?” He enquired me.

“I don’t know, I probably will do so later in the morning, if not later in the day.” I told him trying to keep a smile on my face, making sure the panic levels I felt in my body did not reach the surface and boil over. I don’t know if I was doing a very good of a job as Moony looked at me with concern.

“You know you can talk to Pads and I about literally anything right?” To that I nodded, we shared a smile before Remus got up and headed towards the door.

“Oh, by the way, breakfast is ready when you're ready to come down stairs, warning Sirius is a mix of excitement and nervousness. Oh and we have a surprise for you when you are ready for it.” My eyes perked up at that but I tried to make it not look too obvious.

Remus chuckled a bit before walking fully out of my new room and shutting the door behind him.

Draco POV:

I can’t get Harry off my mind, there are rumours spreading through students that someone caught me kissing another guy at the Yule Ball and now I am stressing, how long will it be until my Father will hear about this. How long before he kicks me out of the house.

It was late into the morning, getting closer to lunch time, I would have to face my Father’s wrath at some point, whether that is if he has heard about the rumours or not. I prayed to Merlin himself that he has not heard of what has happened.

Much to my joy, he hadn’t brought up any rumours including me kissing another boy, Harry. My Mother did tend to give me a few looks which indeed made me wonder if she was the threat, if she knew.

Lunch seemed to drag on forever, I never thought I would see the light of day where it would end and I could return to my room where I continued to have some sort of mental breakdown. After being alone for what felt like a few seconds, in reality it was about ten minutes he heard a soft knocking at the door. I guessed it was either my Mother or a house elf that had a message for me or something to give to me.

It was my Mother.

“Hi sweetheart” She said like she always did when she greeted me when we were alone, my Father not insight.

“Hi” I managed to respond.

“Can I come in?” I nodded. “How are you? Did you enjoy the Yule Ball? Haven’t had an opportunity to talk to you about it yet until now.” She said as she took a set on the edge of my bed.

“I’m doing alright” This of course was not true, his eyes were slightly puffy from either stress or crying. “The Yule Ball was good, I had fun.” I responded as bluntly as I could, trying not to let information spill in case she knew anything at all.

“How are you coping with the rumours, or is it true?” The dreaded question I had so looked forward to avoiding.

I put my head in my hands as I mumbled “So you know…” she placed a hand on my back, making me look back up at her, she was smiling, not a mean cold one but one that made me feel loved and cared for.

“Yes, I have love, and taking from your response it is true then?” I nodded. I didn’t have words, I didn’t know what to say or do but nod.

“Y-your not-t angry at me?” I asked with anxiety creeping in on my voice, I tried to squash it.

“No, why would I be? I have a Mother’s instinct, I also figured you were some form of gay or bisexual from the time you were rather young? Maybe around the age of six or seven?” She trailed off, I was in complete shock, so was she ok with this? She didn’t hate me? She wasn’t angry at me for being gay?

“You knew all this time and didn’t tell me, you must not hate gay people as much as Father does?” I somewhat stated as well as asked.

“I wanted you to figure it out on your own terms, and I do not hate the community, your Father has strong beliefs and has tried to push them on me in the past but I just couldn’t…” She trailed off and took a breath. “You know my cousin? Sirius Black?” I nodded. “He’s gay, rather open about it frankly, oh and his little brother Regulus, he was also gay, he died in a cave many years ago, not long before you were born.” This shocked me.

“How come I never knew about their sexuality??” I asked slightly offended that no one had mentioned it to him sooner.

“I never really thought about it until now…” she said, she was about to say another thing when there was another knock at the door, this time a house elf, holding a letter that was clearly addressed to me. It read:

“Dear Draco,

I hope your break has been nice so far and will continue to be, I am so sorry about the rumour that started, hey at least no one will think it was me! Sorry. Hope your Father isn’t angry at you, that is if he knows about it? Does he? Anyways, how are you doing with everything going on and all?

Hope this letter finds you well and you're not in trouble! Thinking of you, can’t wait to see you back at Hogwarts so we can go back to hanging out if you want to? I can understand if not, trying to deflect the rumours you know?

Yours sincerely

Harry Potter”

My mother of course had read over my shoulder and smiled brightly at me “Sooo, Harry Potter is the guy you kissed then ay?” She chuckled before standing to leave. “I hope you write the boy a response, he seems to be very worried about you.” I rolled my eyes and she left me alone again. Alone with my thoughts. Alone with my ideas. Alone with the thought of Harry- I cut my train of thought off, ignoring that last statement completely.

I took a look over the letter again and noticed the address in which it was sent from ‘12 Grimauld Place’, that’s where Sirius lives isn’t it? I asked myself. Does Harry live there with him? Surely not…

Sirius POV:

“So did you send the letter?” I asked a nervous looking carbon copy of James, though his eyes shone like Lily’s. All I got was a nod in response.

Chapter Text

General POV:

It was the next following days that seemed to drag on forever, not necessarily meaning it was a bad thing… Harry was enjoying his time at Grimauld Place, he loved being around Sirius and Remus, often playing exploding snaps, or playing a match of wizards chess with Remus. There had been no words from Draco, but Harry had somewhat expected that, knowing that he was most likely upset about the rumours. This however did not stop the worry that had been creeping over Harry and wrapping him in a blanket of dread. The new year was approaching fast, only two days from now.

Sirius POV:

“Moonyyy” I groaned, my arms were wrapped around his torso, we were in bed, and Moons being the nerd he was, he was reading, it was barely seven o’clock yet, the smell of tea filled the air.

“Hey Pads” I felt him smiling down at me, he grazed his fingers through my hair, he knew I loved this, it made me melt, made me forget everything that I was about to do and/or say, it prevented me from thinking as long as his hand was there, and of course he knew this, probably why he did it so often, for some peace and quiet.
“Today is the dayy” I said through a yawn. Remus set his book aside as I opened my eyes and looked up at the incredible man before me. We shared a grin, “I wanna just give it to him nowww, but he probably isn’t awake quite yet, that boy loves to sleep in, much unlike his father” I groaned at the memories of James pulling me out of bed early in the mornings.

Remus laughed and sipped at his tea “Best we wait for him to be fully awake so he is aware of what we are offering him” Remus stated.

“But that could take foreverrrr” I said, stretching out and rolling out of bed. “I might just wake him up now…” Remus gave me a look, but I ignored it and made my way to Harry’s room, excitement over taking me.

I knocked on the door, no response, I waited a few seconds before opening my door to a sound asleep Harry Potter.

“Heyy Pots” I whispered, trying to ease him out of his slumber. I sat on the edge, near the middle of his four poster bed. I probably should let him rest but my excitement is close to bursting from my skin. I rest a hand on his arms and lightly move my hand up and down in hopes of getting some sign of life from him. He’s a deep sleeper as this didn’t wake him up.

I was about to take upon a louder approach in waking Harry up but I was unfortunately stopped by Moony.

“Pads, just let him rest while he can, we both know he won’t when he gets to school and sees Draco again” He said leaning up against the door frame arms folded.

“Finee, but I just want him to be our son already” I said, almost a bit too loudly.

It only took Pots another couple hours to wake up and stumble his way down stairs for breakfast. I was eagerly waiting to ask him our news, Remus told me prior to Harry getting up to wait at least ten minutes before I bombard him with questions, I reluctantly agreed.

Once he was full of breakfast I could finally break the news to him.

Remus POV:

Sirius has been bouncing off the walls all morning waiting for the time he can tell Harry we want to adopt him. I could see his struggle in his eyes to not tell him while Harry was eating breakfast.

“So, Pots…” Harry looked up to Sirius who was once exploding with excitement and is now hiding in his nerves. “Uh… Do you- Remus and I were wondering-”. He was clearly struggling and Harry seemed to be rather confused as to where this was going.

“We want to know whether or not you would be happy for us to adopt you?” I blurted out quickly. Sirius gave me a strong, stern glance, Harry looked shocked.

“Y-You want to adopt me!?” Harry exclaimed I don’t think he could believe it.

“Of course we do Pots, we love you and want you to have a live family” Sirius stated I glared at the last part.

“Yes! Of course!” Harry said practically jumping with joy and running to hug both Sirius and I, the hug lasted for several moments before we pulled apart.

“I’ll be back” I said as I scurried away, making my way to the drawing room where I kept the paper work for Harry’s adoption hidden. I placed the papers on the table and placed a pen on top, both Sirius and I had already signed prior to giving him the papers, ready for his signature.

With little hesitation Harry signed and slid the paper back over to myself and Padfoot.

Draco POV:

My Mother has been nothing but a bother recently. She has been pestering me for days to write Harry back. I think I want to but a part of me is on edge. The rumors are likely to have spiralled by the time I get back to Hogwarts, this in which I do not look forward to dealing with, my reputation has been ruined all because Potter and I snogged for a few seconds.

I don’t know why we kissed though… I thought he was straight, I thought that I was straight. But I did enjoy the kiss-

“Why can’t I make up my mind!” I yell.

Fuck it. I’m writing that letter, not for him, but for me, and for the fact that my Mother won’t leave me alone until I do so.

“Dear Harry,- Why is this so hard.

“Dear Harry,

My break has been fine, my Mother has been pestering me pretty much the whole time. There is nothing much we can do about the rumors, yea you're lucky. You are always lucky, you manage to get out of every situation, someone will come forward and say it was you, just you wait.

As for my Father, I do not believe he knows about the kiss and rumour and if he does he has not confronted me about it. Yet.

When we get back to Hogwarts I will probably be staying on the down low, it might also help if you are not always attached at my hip. So we may not be ‘hanging out’ as frequently as we had been.

Sincerely

D.M

Done.

Now I can send this letter and be done with it, for now at least.

~A day later~

“Draco, darling” My Mother called from outside my room before entering. She looked nervous but attempted to hide it behind her warm smile. “Your Father is wanting to speak to you, he is in his office.” I rolled my eyes at this, well shit, he knows. I take a dramatic look back at my room, might as well, I’m about to get murdered by my own Father.

I look back at my mother who is still trying to smile but it looks like a struggle, it looks forced. “Does he want me now or later?” I asked, my voice wavering as I spoke.

“Unfortunatley now.” She said, stern but loving. I nodded, walking over to my mirror and fixing the state of my clothing. The time before I left it was 2:34pm.

It takes me around seven minutes of walking across the manor in order to reach my Father’s office. The dark demeanour looming around the entrance of the door. I know he knows. I know what his reaction will be. I know the words he will use. The actions.

I knock on the door and immediately I get a response. “Come in.” An emotionless voice came through, I entered as I was told, not making eye contact with my Father. Rather I took an interest in my shoes and the ground beneath me.

“Draco.” he started, I flinched at the coldness in his voice. “What are these rumours I hear you're involved in?” This was most definitely going to be an interrogation.

“Just- Some classmates made them up… For a laugh! It’s not true I swear!” I plead my case but I have a feeling I’m not going to win, I will be proven guilty.

“Is that so? Then what is this?” He pulled out a folded piece of parchment, it had Harry’s address written clearly on it. I’m absolutely fucked. “Since when did you become pen pals with Mr. Potter? And why does it discuss a kiss? Rumour may be true, but who did you kiss? I best hope it was not Mr. Potter. And what do you mean by ‘Hanging Out’?” He pressed.

I can’t seem to defend myself, I can’t get a single word out and now I will be punished for liking someone of the same gender…

“Talk boy.” He raised his voice, making a shiver run down my spine. I was on edge.

“I- um- It’s- It’s true, Ha- Potter and I kissed… The night of the Yule Ball. There has been a rumour spread about me kissing someone but little people know the identity of who I kissed. Potter owled me the other day asking after me, Mother thought it would be rude not to respond…” I trailed off, finally lifting my head from my spot on the ground.

“Well. No one knows his identity, correct?”

“Uh well… Pansy and Granger know…”

“Why would you tell a mudblood?” He asked and I shuddered at the word, I’ve been avoiding it as much as possible since I began to have feelings for Harry.

“I didn’t directly tell her-” I was cut off.

“Then how did she find out?” His voice was gaining power, sharpening with each word that left his cold lips.

“She walked in and saw us…”

“So it was HER, that mudblood, she spread the rumour about you.” He was stern and confident in this decision.

“I highly doubt that-” Cut off. Again.

“You doubt that? Are you being serious? Mudbloods are a disgrace to the Wizarding world. They shouldn’t be allowed in this society.” I rolled my eyes, but he caught that, glaring into my soul.

“They aren’t all that bad, Granger is the smartest witch of her age.” I defended her.

“What, you got a crush on a mudblood now? Why aren’t you saying mudblood now?”

I didn’t really have a reason that would be valid in my Father’s mind, he wouldn’t take ‘Oh I’ve got a huge crush on Harry Potter and he likes me back, so I don’t want to offend him by calling his best friend a really rude word that I may have called her once in the past’

“Well?” He is not letting this go.

“I do not have feelings for Granger” Or for that matter, any women, but I didn’t dare say it, he was pissed off at me enough.

He sighed. A deep disappointed sigh.

“What will I do with you?” Fuck. What will he do to me? My Father’s wand was in his hand. I start to prepare myself for the pain I am about to receive.

His Wand. Pointed directly at me. “Crucio!” He yelled.

I fell to the floor immediately, pain washing over me and sticking. I yelled and screamed, the pain unimaginable. This seemed to last for hours or even longer. I remember passing out during stages of the crucio.

Finally it stopped and my Father kicked me from his office, leaving me to slowly make my way back to my room on the other side of the manor.

I trembled at every step. As soon as I made it to my room I locked the door, though that wouldn’t do much while magic existed. It provided a sense of comfort over me.

Walking to my desk I shakily took a quill, dipped it in my ink well as I grabbed a piece of parchment and sat down.

Dear, Harry,

My Father knows. Please stay safe, he found my first letter, so I’m writing it again. My break has been fine up until this point and I will fill you in when we get back to Hogwarts.

When we get back I will need to stay a low profile and I suggest you do not hang out around me, where people can see. Rumours may spread further and I cannot deal with my Father’s wrath again.

Sincerely, Yours

D.M

I was careful to tie the letter onto the owl directly rather than having it be sent downstairs to avoid the risk of my Father going looking again.

Now to await a response or to see Harry in person when at Hogwarts.

Chapter Text

Hey guys, no chapter as I will be rewriting this story.

I don't like how it is going so far and feel unmotivated to continue updating.

I will start rewriting it this week and publish it to a new fic page (not sure what to call it lol).

Thank you for reading this so far and apologies.