Chapter Text
(20) Tenacious
Harry and Draco met up with Ron and Hermione in the main courtyard so they could all walk to Hagrid’s together. Hermione was in high spirits– as she often was after school. Ron, however, seemed to be in a rather foul mood, and was heavily plodding through the stones.
“Don’t take it personally,” Hermione was saying, “Ron’s had a bit of a rubbish first day. He just needs a bit of space right now.”
“Hopefully Hagrid’s’ll cheer him up.” Harry said. Ron glanced glumly over his shoulder, gaze slightly hardening when he made eye-contact with Harry and Draco. This gave Harry more than an inkling about the fact that some of Ron’s foul mood was definitely because of him. But for what reason, he didn’t know. What he did know, however, was that stirring the cauldron by asking Hermione to confirm that was not the move. So, he opted to talk to him about it later.
The walked up the pathway to the door and knocked. As soon as they did, a large, deep bark was first to greet them. As soon as the door opened, Fang came flying out the hut, jumped down the stairs, and bounded straight at them. He stopped to greet [and slobber all over] the trio, yipping and whining with excitement, jumping up and putting his two huge front paws on their shoulders as if giving them an embrace. His tail stirred up dust and created a draft of air.
“Hey you lot. Welcome back! Fang’s missed ye’ so much.”
“We can tell.” Hermione laughed, scratching him behind the ears. Harry patted him on the back. Even Ron cracked a smile despite his foul mood.
Once he had had his fill of greeting them, he saw Draco, and then, with an excited bark, barrelled straight at him, tail wagging so quickly it looked like it might pull him off the ground. He jumped on the blonde, with a force powerful enough to knock him to the grass. Draco fell with a yelp of surprise. As soon as he hit the ground, Fang started licking him all over the face.
The trio burst out laughing.
“Ack! Uggh! G-get off me, you mangy mutt! Disgusting! Oi- Stop it! You're getting your nasty slobber all over my robes!”
Fang did not stop.
“Aggh! Harry!”
“Alright, Fang, that’s enough, now! Away– away!” Hagrid lightly tugged the dog’s collar and then tossed him a small branch. “Look– stick– go fetch the stick! Fetch!” Fang leapt off of Draco and bounded after it. Draco scowled after him.
“Sorry about that, Malfoy.” Hagrid apologized as Harry helped Draco off the ground, “He’s harmless, he jus’ don’t know his own strength sometimes.”
“Yeah, that’s obvious…” Draco grumbled, dusting off his robes and turning up his nose at the slobber the dog had left behind.
“Well, go on, go on in- make yuerselves at home.” Hangrid invited, gesturing the group towards the open front door.
Moments later, Fang returned with the stick and dropped it at Hagrid’s feet.
“Good boy.” Hagrid scratched his head and threw the stick again. He came back, and then proceeded to carry the stick in the house to gnaw on it in his basket. Hagrid headed back in behind Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
The trio made themselves at home straight away, [a feat which involved them lightheartedly squabbling over the armchair], but Draco spent time lingering in the entryway. He’d never actually been in Hagrid’s hut before. It smelled musty, with a hint of campfire, and a hint of dog. It was a large, single room, cluttered and shabby inside, with a lot of empty cages, wicker baskets, ropes, random supplies, furniture, and cooking pots and pans, and other knickknacks hanging from the ceiling. Everything was oversized. There was a very large fireplace, which was currently ablaze and heating up something in the swinging cooking pot, an old threadbare rug in the center of the room, a wicker basket with a grungy pillow that was currently occupied by Fang, and a worn blanket draped over a giant worn armchair that definitely needed new upholstery. One corner of the single room hut had a large round table, an oversized wooden chair, and a bench with firewood underneath. However, despite the general distasteful appearance, there was an air of welcoming charm and warmth about it too.
“No need to linger in the doorway, Malfoy.” Hagrid said warmly, “Come on in, don’t be shy, there’s plenty of room.” Draco stepped onto the creaky floor and skeptically glanced around.
“Sit anywhere’s ye like.” Hagrid added.
Draco removed his robe and hung it off a nail sticking out of the wall by the doorway, and crossed the room to where Harry was seated in the armchair [he had seemingly won it in the squabble]. The chair was big enough for two to comfortably [albeit slightly snugly] share the cushion, but Draco lowered himself onto Harry's lap instead.
“Uhh…hi?” the brunette blushed.
“You don’t mind, do you love?” Draco asked, casting Harry the sweet look that he knew could get him anywhere.
“Bruv, you could literally both fit in the chair…” Ron grumbled.
“No, of course I don’t mind– but could you balance your weight a bit? It’d be more comfortable if you sat across me.”
Draco wriggled, adjusting his body so he was lounging across Harry’s lap instead of sitting on one knee. He stretched his long legs out and rested his feet on a short stool, crossing his ankles. The hem of his uniform pants rode up slightly, revealing more of the violet-bottomed, lace up leather boots he was wearing. He then started fiddling with Harry’s tie and drawing random shapes with his finger on the front of the dress shirt.
“Right, tea’s about done.” Hagrid said. “Rock cakes are also done if you’d like somethin’ to snack on while ye wait.” he placed the steaming plate on the table, “I recently improved the recipe.” Hagrid was saying, “Cuz I realized I was cookin’ ‘em too long and they were too hard. So hopefully ye’s won’t break yer teeth on ‘em. I also added some orange zest and cinnamon to to improve the flavor of it.” Ron reached for one first.
“There’s plenty of seats, y’know. Ye don’t have ter cram into one chair.” Hagrid said when he saw Draco and Harry.
“It’s fine, Hagrid.” Harry reassured, “I don’t mind.”
“I appreciate it.” Draco furthered, “But I am perfectly comfortable right here.” he added, smiling politely. I don’t really want to sit on anything…
He drew his wand and pointed it at the plate, “Accio rock cake.” One of the shapeless lumps flew straight through the air and landed with a shower of crumbs into his waiting hand. He broke it in half and handed off one piece to Harry. He then took a nibble. It was crunchy and dry but not inedible. And the center was a little bit softer. The cinnameg and cloves added something to it. The orange zest was bold and one particular bite overpowered his taste buds with citrus. [Though it would taste better dipped in tea, for certain.]. It wasn’t the worst thing he’d eaten, but it was far from something he’d want to have again. But he kept his mouth shut about it.
A bit later, Hermione and Draco decided to go back to the castle, which left Harry and Ron sitting on the steps of Hagrid’s hut.
“You alright?” Harry asked.
Ron scarcely glanced up at him, “I’m fine.” He grumbled, “it’s nothing. Just had a long day.”
He certainly was not fine. Based on his response, it was obvious to him that something was up other than simply “a long day” but he could not get anything more out of him. The tension that radiated from him was all too familiar to Harry. But he also knew that there was no point trying to get it out of him now. He would come around and Harry would be sure to hear about it later.
-xXx-
At dinner, Harry and Draco once again found themselves waved down to sit at the Slytherin table, and once again sat with the twins, Greengrass, and Nott.
“Hermione was really impressed with your bombardment charm, today, by the way.” Harry said to Hestia, once they were part way into their meal. Her face promptly lit up.
“She said that?”
Harry nodded.
“I would like to properly introduce myself at some point…” Hestia indicated, “But I don’t know…”
“It would be sort of nice to introduce our respected friend groups, wouldn’t it?” Astoria put in, “I mean if one of the goals for this year is to make those sorts of connections…we should have lunch together.”
“Yeah, if Weasley decides to get out of his funk then I think the idea is not half bad.” Draco replied.
“Oi, give him time. He will come around. Everything’s an adjustment for him, babe, you know that.” Harry replied. He glanced across the aisle. Ron was eating, and appeared to be sulking whilst stuffing his face.
Harry also happened noticed that Astoria appeared to be watching Ginny with a dreamy look in her eyes.
“Say, Potter?” she asked.
“Yeah?”
“Who’s that girl with the red hair next to your friend, Granger? I know she’s a Weasley but I’ve forgotten her name.”
“That’s Ginny. She’s the friend I was telling you about– the one with the pygmy puff.”
Astoria’s face promptly lit up, “Really? Her?”
“Mmm hmm.”
Astoria glanced her way again, face dusting pink, “She’s pretty.”
“It might interest you to know she’s Harry’s ex-girlfriend.” Draco piped in.
“Oh. I see.”
“Really, babe?” Harry huffed and rolled his eyes.
“I don’t mean anything by it, love. I’m just stating a fact is all.”
“Right.” Harry turned back to Astoria, “Yeah, she is. But we’re cool. I mean she’s my best mate’s sister and the break up was a collective agreement. Actually, she knew I liked Draco before I even realized it. And she was secretly rooting for the two of us the whole time, allegedly.”
“Oh. Well, that’s a good thing, I suppose.”
“Yeah, sure…yeah, she’s cool. She’s captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team this year.”
“Is she? That’s brilliant.” Astoria took a drink of her water and lightly nibbled at a dinner roll on her plate, trying not to visibly swoon.
They continued eating. Moments later, Draco leaned into Harry, whispered, “Sorry…” and kissed him on the cheek.
Harry glanced towards Draco, “I realize there was no point in me saying that. It was a bit crass of me.”
“Yeah, a bit.” Harry affirmed, “But it shows progress– I mean you noticed it. And I appreciate the apology. Just– you know– maybe don’t go around mentioning that next time somebody asks about Ginny.”
“Alright. I’ll keep that to myself.”
“Thanks.”
-xXx-
“So, Potter,” Nott started when they were near the end of their meal, “You planning on sneaking into the common room again?”
“Not tonight. Ginny actually gave me the Slumber Party pass she won in D.A.D.A this afternoon, so I don’t have to. But I might not use it..” Harry replied, “Might just save it for a rainy day instead. And if I can get around perfectly fine in other ways, it’s not really necessary.”
“Or, if you’d like, instead of sneaking, I could, theoretically, as Prefect, grant you special permissions so you don’t have to. I’d, of course, have to get approval from Professor Slughorn, but it wouldn’t be too hard. He seems to like you, Potter.”
“You’d do that?”
“Yeah. If you have permission then you won’t get in trouble and neither will Malfoy for sneaking you in.” Nott said, “That way there’ll be no risk of detention or loss of house points for Slytherin- or, I guess, Gryffindor too– for that matter.”
“That’s a wonderful idea, Theo. Why didn’t I think of that?” Astoria asked.
Theodore shrugged. “I don’t know. Perhaps it was because you were too focused on pygmy puffs and cute girls.”
She blushed, “You’re totally right.”
Theo cracked a small smile and rolled his eyes. Then he finished the rest of his pumpkin juice, “In fact, I will go and speak to Professor Slughorn now.” he got up from the table, “See you in the Common Room. Are you coming, Greengrass?”
“I’ll be along in a moment. Still eating.”
“Oi, Nott?” Draco called after him.
Theo turned over his shoulder, “Yeah?”
“Thanks.”
Nott nodded, “Slytherins look after each other.” he said. And then headed down the corridor towards the great double doors.
“So, Potter, when are you going to introduce me to your friend?” Astoria asked.
“Umm…soon-ish?”
“Actually, we should all go for a picnic one day. That’d be cute.” she declared.
“A picnic?” Draco echoed.
“Yes, Draco, a picnic.”
“But why a picnic?”
“Because. Picnics are lovely. And we’d all be on neutral ground. It might be easier that way.” she said, “And we may as well enjoy the warm weather while we’ve still got it. And I’ve always wanted to have a picnic with friends. But Daphne–” she was cut off with a dry cough. She took a moment, and then took a sip of water. “--She never permitted it. She was worried that being outside too long would aggravate my condition. So now is my chance. She’s not here to tell me otherwise.”
Draco nodded in understanding. “Fair enough.”
“Anyway. I’d better be off.” she said, “I’ll see you two later. Bye boys.” she got up from the table, and headed out of the Hall.
“I guess we’d better figure out the date and time of this picnic then.” Draco said, “If it means that much to Ash, we’d best make it happen.”
“You seem to have a soft spot for her.” Harry commented, feeling a slight tinge of jealousy claw against his chest for a moment.
“She reminds me of my sister, Marjorie, a bit.” Draco replied, “She’s always been a bit of a ray of sunshine in the dreary House of Slytherin. I thought she was a bit annoying at first, but I started to grow fond of her– in a sort of– elder sibling platonic way. She’s never let her blood malediction control her or dampen her spirits. Even if it does shorten her life significantly. She’s one of the strongest people I know.”
“Shorten her life?”
“She won’t make it to old age,” Draco said, “She may not even reach middle age. She doesn’t have long, so she’s trying to live her life to the fullest while she can– that’s her ambition. And I’d like to help her.” he confessed, “...Unlike her sister, Daphne, who, though she meant well, was overbearingly controlling and overprotective and never let her do anything. So I guess I empathized with her in that way, too.”
“That makes sense.” Harry glanced towards the door, “I sort of feel bad for her in that case.”
“Don’t.” Draco said, “If you show her pity, she’ll hex you. And don’t ever assume she needs assistance and start helping her without asking– she won’t thank you for that either.”
“Got it.” Harry nodded.
-xXx-
The next morning, they were actually on time for breakfast. As soon as they arrived in the Hall, Ginny waved them down. They walked over to the Gryffindor table.
“Morning.” Ginny said.
“Hey.” Ron grumbled.
“Good morning you two.” Hermione greeted, not even glancing up from the Daily Prophet.
“Hi guys.” Harry replied. Draco nodded at them. They set their bags down, and then proceeded to go and grab breakfast from where it was set buffet style at the High table. Most of the teachers were in their rooms– and the only staff members present in the Hall were Professor McGonagall, and a small, mousy woman that Harry recognized as the mouthy juror from Snape’s hearing.
“She was at Snape’s trial,” Harry whispered, “And she was trying everything she could to get him convicted. I bet you she’s trying to convince Professor McGonagall to kick him out of Hogwarts.”
“I saw her at the staff table yesterday.” Draco replied, “Whoever she is, she’s teaching classes this year. I wonder what subject…”
Great… Harry thought, She was already annoying enough at the trial, as a teacher she’s probably ten times worse…
“Oi, Harry?” Ginny piped in.
“Yeah?”
“Who’s that girl at the Slytherin table that sits with you and Draco?” she asked, “The one with the wavy dark hair?”
“That’s Astoria Greengrass.” Harry said.
“She’s cute.” Ginny commented.
“Funny you should say that because she was actually asking about you yesterday.” he said, “She said you were pretty.”
“Did she?” Ginny perked up.
“Yeah, she also wants to meet you. She’s very interested in Arnold.”
“And you two didn’t invite her to sit with us today, why?”
“Uhh…”
Before he could say anything, Ginny was turning and talking to Draco.
“Oi, Malfoy,” she started, “You should invite Greengrass to sit with us at lunch today.”
“She did express interest in meeting you lot.” Draco replied, “I’ll consider it. But in the meantime, I’m starving.”
He looked out across the hall at the breakfast buffet. It was the same type of breakfast food as always– oatmeal, bagels, pastries, muffins, different kinds of breakfast sandwiches, eggs, bacon, roasted potatoes, sausages, belgian waffles and pancakes–and more things to put on them than what was probably needed. For drinks, there was coffee, tea, waters, and a couple different kinds of juices- pumpkin, apple, and orange.
“Harry, love, let’s go and get breakfast before all the good pastries are gone– if they aren’t gone already.” Draco said, lightly tugging the brunette’s arm.
“Sure.”
Harry and Draco picked up their plates, and slowly began to move down the table. As they headed down the line, Harry noticed a group of students staring them down–glaring dangerously at Draco from across the hall. It was Yaxley, Mulciber, and Avery, and the fourth, fifth, and sixth students Harry recognized to be Cormac McClaggen and two of his friends– a broad, husky meathead by the name Albert Heinz, and the other, Armin Morrow– a bloody, smooth-talking git that looked like a prince but was as vile and arrogant as Lucius Malfoy.
What the hell? He thought, Why are they talking to McClaggen? And why is McClaggen still here? I thought he graduated…
They turned and stared him down. McClaggen worse a devious, cruel smirk. Harry placed a hand on Draco’s back, and returned the glare– with a subtext of, mind your own bloody business. The group turned back to continue whispering amongst each other. Harry rolled his eyes and turned back to scooping his food.
They continued to move down the length of the table.
Moments later, Harry felt them staring again. And this time when he turned to look, Mulciber, Avery, and Yaxley had sat down, and Heinz and McClaggen were moving towards the High Table, talking amongst themselves. Harry kept his eye on them.
“Love?” Draco’s voice cut in. Harry shifted his gaze towards the other boy.
“Yeah?”
“Hold my plate, will you? I need to get drinks.”
“Oh, sure.” Harry took the plate from Draco’s hands. The eyes of the boys burned into his back. The hushed voices were louder now.
….look at that f— looks just like his father…
….fuckin’ skinny-arse t—-
…he should be in Azkaban– can’t believe ol’ McGonagall let that entitled little bitch boy come back….
….I bet he’s got Potter under the imperious curse…there’s no way–
Harry suddenly turned sharply over his shoulder, “Really, McClaggen?” Harry snapped, “Do you get off by insulting other people?”
McClaggen stared at him, wide-eyed.
“Insult my partner again and I will hex you.” Harry threatened, stepping towards them.
The boys reared back, “Oi, whoah– we’re just joking, man…” said Heinz, putting up his hands in surrender.
Harry continued to glare, “Didn’t sound like it.” he said.
Heinz and McClaggen did not respond.
“Piss off.” Harry glowered.
“And what if we don’t? Will his father hear about it?” McClaggen mocked.
From beside Harry, Draco paled.
“Shut up.” Draco hissed through gritted teeth, “...Just shut up.”
The boys sneered at them. “That’s your best come back, is it? Damn Malfoy, you’ve really gone off the deep end.” Morrow taunted.
“They lost the war, now he’s got no power anymore.” Heinz added. Draco averted his gaze. Harry clenched his fists.
“How’s it feel to be such an insignificant nobody, eh Malfoy?” McClaggen continued to taunt.
Harry’s blood boiled over and he was speaking before he could stop himself, “I said sod off McClaggen!” Harry shoved the much taller boy back. McClaggen didn’t even flinch. Instead, he nodded at Heinz, who shoved Harry backwards. Harry stumbled into the table, nearly losing the breakfast plates.
McClaggen and his friends laughed. However, the laughter was quickly cut off when a sharp gust of wind came out of nowhere and splattered McClaggen’s pumpkin juice all over his face and robe.
McClaggen gaped.
“You’d best watch who yu antagonize, McClaggen.” Draco sneered, lowering his wand, “Next time it’ll be hot tea down your trousers.”
“You–”
“And for the record, I am not insignificant. I have significance, to him.” Draco replied, indicating Harry, “Harry bloody Potter. And that’s more than enough for me. None of the rest of you can say that. So you can shove your petty insults back up your arse and fuck off.”
The boys gaped. Harry smirked.
“Yeah, that’s right.” Draco affirmed, “Piss off. Now if you don’t mind. I’m going to go enjoy my meal. Go pick on someone else.”
“You’re gonna regret this!” Cormac squawked.
“Fuck off, McClaggen.” Harry glowered, “Your threats are as empty as your head, clearly. Otherwise you would have graduated by now.”
McClaggen glared and began to reach for his wand.
Draco tugged on Harry’s arm. “Come on, Harry love.” he picked up a full glass, “Here’s your pumpkin juice. Let’s just go and sit down.”
Harry nodded, and they made their way to the tables, with the flabbergasted bullies glaring after them.
“Sorry about him.” Harry apologized, “He’s a bloody twat. Don’t think on anything he says– because he certainly doesn’t.”
“Yet another feeble attempt on Avery’s part.” Draco said as they carried their food to the Gryffindor table, “Putting someone else up to try and antagonize me. As if that’s going to work…”
Harry glanced over his shoulder at the three Gryffindors, then back at Draco– in time to see the blonde’s confidence flicker away.
They made there way over to the Gryffindor table, sat down, and began to eat their breakfast. As they sat and ate, Draco went quiet…
….Until something on the Prophet caught his attention.
“Oi Granger, let me see that for a moment.” Draco half-ordered. Hermione gave him a disapproving look over the edge of the paper.
“...Please.”
She sighed, “Okay, but I’m warning you now, you aren’t gonna like it.” she handed the newspaper across the table. Draco took it from her hands
She handed it over, Draco took a look at it. And then instantly promptly slammed the paper down onto the table. “No! NO! I can’t believe this! This is outrageous!”
Hermione sighed, “Skeeter’s done it again, Harry.” she said.
Harry looked down at the newspaper. The headline photo was of Harry and Draco kissing in the Hall from the first night back. It was followed by several photos of them taken in the castle. The headline?
“True Love or Publicity Stunt?” -- Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Saved-the-World publicizes romantic relationship with Draco Malfoy, former child delinquent and Junior Death Eater. But is it really love? Or is it just a ploy?”
….Recently, Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy have kicked off the new year at Hogwarts with a ferverous declaration of love in the form of a passionate kiss in front of the entire school. It was followed immediately by an inspirational speech by the Wizarding World’s Hero about love, tolerance, and acceptance as we enter an Era of peace.
But the Wizarding World is divided over this display. And one can’t help but question the sincerity of their relationship…Are their feelings true? Or just for show? Does Malfoy have ulterior motives? Did his beloved father put him up to this? Is Potter just stringing him along to emphasize his victory speech? Updates to follow…
….It seems the Malfoys, having disappeared after the end of the 2nd Wizarding War, are in the public eye with yet another scandal---"
The paper promptly disintegrated to ash before Harry could finish reading.
“Oi!”
“Hey!” Hermione exclaimed.
Draco lowered his wand.
“What the hell, mate? That was ours!” Ron snapped.
Draco paled, “My father will certainly hear about this…” he said, “He and my mother don’t read the Prophet regularly…but anytime in mentions Malfoys anywhere– or any of the Sacred 28 for that matter, they will. Now my parents are gonna know where I am! I’m gonna hear it…they’re gonna try to win back my favor….”
“You don’t have to answer to them.” Harry reminded.
“No, I know! It’s just…it’s far easier said than done.” They get to me, ““...How dare she! Who in the Seven Hells does she think she is?” Draco exclaimed, “Questioning the sincerity of our relationship!”
“This is an unfortunate habit of hers.” Hermione grumbled, “The bloody cockroach has been sticking her nose into Harry’s business since the Triwizard Tournament.”
“Yeah. It’s borderline obsessive.” Harry grumbled, “She’s always given me a bit of an ick.”
“How in the hell did she get the photo of us snogging in the castle!? How did she get any of these pictures!?” Draco exclaimed.
“She probably stole it off of Dennis’s end table.” Hermione said, “She’s a beetle animagus which means that she can sneak about whenever she wants. That’s probably how she’s managed it. I had her captured in a jar at one point but she managed to escape.”
“Well you’d better catch her again. I’m not dealing with this.” Draco demanded.
“Oi. Don’t be orderin’ my girlfriend around, Malfoy.” Ron said.
“It’s okay Ron, I didn’t see it like that. He’s right, though.” Hermione replied, “We should capture her again. And then report her to the Ministry. Ruin her reputation so she can’t report for them anymore.”
Draco perked up slightly, “Alright, Granger. I think that’s the most devious thing I’ve ever heard you say.” he said.
She nodded, “I’ve just gotta come up with another strategy.” she said, “I’ll work on it.”
“And we’ll look out for you, babe.” Harry assured, “It’s gonna be alright, okay?”
Draco forced a nod, but didn’t look anywhere near convinced, not even when Harry tried to offer a reassuring squeeze to his shoulder.
-xXx-
During the school day, Draco was quiet. He went through the motions in each class—taking notes, completing the tasks—but his usual sharp commentary, muttered asides, and small flirtations towards Harry were gone. Harry noticed the stiffness of Draco’s shoulders and the flicker of tension in his expression whenever someone whispered nearby.
Harry had a feeling it was the combination of the Skeeter article in the Daily Prophet and the miserable encounter with McClaggen and his friends that morning. The whole thing had clearly left Draco on edge, even though he had tried to assure his partner he was fine.
At lunch, Draco, of course, was a bit too preoccupied to ask Astoria to sit with them. And even he hadn’t been, Astoria wasn’t at lunch.
Draco watched the windows anxiously, hoping that the owls would not bring him any mail, but at the same time, waiting, pale-faced, for that strongly worded letter from his parents to drop on the table in front of him.
When the time came for Draco to head off to his music class, Harry found himself reluctant to let him go. The thought of Draco sitting alone in that room while people continued to gossip and scheme behind his back made something uneasy twist in Harry’s chest.
“You really don’t need to glue yourself to me, love,” he said, “I assure you, I’m fine.”
“Could I at least walk you there?” Harry asked.
Draco sighed and adjusted the strap of his schoolbag, “If you must.”
The walk to the music wing was quieter than usual. A few students glanced up as they passed, and this time, they didn’t bother to be subtle. It was as if the entire school had collectively decided that whispering around corners wasn’t enough– or– they had decided that since it had made the Prophet, now it was a problem.
The stares and murmurs followed them openly. Harry did his best to ignore it, but every pair of eyes that darted away– every student that murmured around him– was a royal nuisance, and though he was so used to this now– it was really bothersome because of how much it was getting to Draco.
Draco looked like he wanted to disappear. Draco was reluctant to hold Harry’s hand. He didn’t hold his head up in the proud, haughty way he usually did. Instead, he kept his gaze fixed to the floor and his jaw clenched tight. In his carefully, and meticulously conditioned– no– manipulated mind– right now he was nothing but a noble in a scandal. And his father’s voice hissed dangerously from the dark edges of his mind- overtaking his thoughts– reminding him of that. It cursed him, told him how much of a traitor, a shame, a disappointment he was. Told him that this was a fate worse than death and he deserved it and it was all his fault the Malfoys were ruined now…
When he reached the end of the corridor, Draco strayed from Harry’s side and quickened his pace– as if suddenly quickening his pace would get him away from his father’s voice in his head, and whispers round them in the Hall.
When they reached the door of the music room, Harry gave Draco’s hand a reassuring squeeze. Draco silently mouthed “I love you”, slipped his hand from Harry’s, and then slunk quietly into the room without a kiss goodbye. It stung a little.
Harry lingered a moment more, and then turned and headed for Study Hall. Ron and Hermione were there today, and his spirits lifted a little when they waved him down.
“There you are.” Hermione declared, “About time. I was starting to think you weren’t gonna come.”
“I was just walking Draco to Music.” Harry replied, “It’s two floors above us.” He sat down in the available chair across from her, and started taking out his homework and sighed.
“You seem a bit put out, mate.” Ron commented.
Harry cast Ron a disapproving look, “Oh, now you’re talking to me?”
“Oi, come on. It wasn’t you– I just had a shit day yesterday, that’s all.” Ron assurred, “I mean, yeah, I was a bit upset we weren’t partnered up yesterday but i’m over it now. And anyway– nevermind me– what’s got your pants in a twist? Did Malfoy do something to upset you?”
“Not exactly. I mean– it’s just been a rough day– between the Skeeter article and being harassed by McClaggen this morning– and on top of it all the gossip that’s going around now– he’s taking it pretty hard and I’m concerned about him.” Harry replied, “Acutally, he’s taking it so hard he didn’t even kiss me before he went into his class. So that didn’t feel particularly fantastic.”
“I’m sure it isn’t you, Harry.” Hermione reassured, “I don’t want to kiss Ron when I’m in certain moods. So try not to take it too personally.”
“No, I know that,” Harry replied, “But still.”
“Your feelings are perfectly understandable, though.” Hermione assured.
“I’m sure Malfoy just needs a bit.” Ron offered, “He’ll come ‘round. He’s too clingy not to, I mean he’d probably sit in your lap all day if he could, mate.”
Harry managed a chuckle.
“He is quite tenacious,” Hermione agreed, “But so is Harry.” she smiled at him, “Right now, you’re itching to get up and go sit in on music class just to be with him, aren’t you?”
“I am not.” Harry replied, blushing fiercely.
“You are.” Hermione said, seeing right through him.
“No,” Harry repeated, but then confessed, “...I’m just worried about him.”
“I understand that. But try not to worry too much. He’ll be fine. He’s perfectly capable of handling himself for 90 minutes.” She glanced up at the clock on the wall, “83 minutes now, to be precise.”
“You’re probably right, Hermione,” Harry replied, “The music kids tend to be pretty alright, anyway. I don’t think many of them will give him a hard time.”
“Exactly.”
83 minutes dragged on. Then two minutes before the end of Study Hall, Harry was packing up his things and was out the door less than one second after the bell started to ring. He headed straight back up to music wing, and headed down the corridor to Music Room #3.
When he arrived outside the open double doors, his ears were graced by the beautiful sound of melancholy piano music. When he poked his head inside the room to find the source, lo and behold there was Draco, sitting at bench of the baby grand, playing some poignant piano song.
Harry quietly slipped in the room to listen more closely. He took a moment to admire the way Draco’s lithe, nimble fingers danced so effortlessly across the keys. He hadn’t noticed Harry, either. He was completely caught up and entirely focused on what he was playing.
And he went the entirety of the song without noticing Harry. He appeared to be in some sort of flow state, actually, and didn’t even bat an eye when Harry approached the piano. When Harry was close enough, he also noticed Draco’s mouth moving, and when he listened hard enough, he discovered that Draco, was, in fact, singing, in a gentle, raspy timbre.
…Can't not think of all the cost
And the things that will be lost
Oh, can we just get a pause?
To be certain we'll be tall again
Whether weather be the frost,
Or the violence of the dog days
I'm on waves, out being tossed
Is there a line that I could just go cross?
And when I was shipwrecked,
I thought of you,
In the cracks of light,
I dreamed of you.
It was real enough.
To get me through.
Out on waves being tossed,
Out on waves I’m being tossed,
But I swear,
You were there…
“I didn’t know you played the piano.” Harry commented.
A resounding, dissonant chord engulfed the room and made Professor Flitwick jump a mile out of his desk.
“Harry!” Draco exclaimed, recovering from his shock, “Merlin’s arse! You know better than to sneak up on me like that!”
“Sorry, babe. I was trying not to interrupt your song.” Harry replied, “Seriously, you sound really nice.”
“Well, I do have a good 12 years experience.” Draco said, “I was put in lessons when I was young, and I’ve been playing ever since. And playing has always sort of helped me when things are difficult. I’ve had to keep quiet about it for the longest time, but this year, I’m playing accompaniment for the school choir. That’s the only reason I’m in music class.” He closed up his songbook and sheet music folder and slipped it into his schoolbag.
“It certainly seems like you feel a little better.” Harry affirmed.
“A bit, yeah.” Draco closed the key cover.
“So how come you never played the piano at Grimmauld Place?” Harry asked.
Draco got up from the bench, and slung his bag on, “Because that dusty old thing is so disastorously out of tune. And it needs about a dozen other repairs.” Draco answered, “It’s basically unplayabale at the moment.”
“I could get it fixed up for you.” Harry offered as they headed towards the door.
“That’s sweet of you, love– but when exactly would you have time for that if we’re stuck living at school?” Draco asked.
“The holidays or something.” Harry replied.
“Well, if you insist, it would be nice to have a piano at home too.” Draco said.
Harry nodded, and they headed down the corridor. They walked in silence for a bit. As they were walking, Harry debated whether to bring up the “no kiss” situation from earlier or to let it go. Was it really a big enough deal to rehash? Did Draco really need to know, at the moment, that earlier he had accidentally done something to upset Harry on top of everything else? This debate prodded the back of Harry’s mind as they headed towards the Astronomy tower for some fresh air.
Their walk was quiet, for the most part, with a couple of small conversations lingering here and there.
“Did anyone give you a hard time in music class?” Harry dared ask.
Draco shook his head, “No. No one actually spoke to me much at all.” he said, “Which is fine. I’d rather be left alone than harassed.” he commented, “DId anyone give you a hard time?”
“No.”
They climbed up the spiraling stairs, crossed the chamber and stepped out towards the overlook of the tower. When they arrived, the group of younger students who were there immediately halted their conversation, took a moment to stare at Draco and Harry, and then scurried passed them, disappearing down the staircase with whispers and giggles. Harry rolled his eyes. Draco looked positively ready to hex something.
As soon as they had gone, Draco slipped his hand from Harry’s and stepped up to the railing, and leaned over to look out at the view, drawing in a couple of deep breaths. Harry gave Draco a moment, and then joined him by his side, brushing shoulders as he came to stand beside him.
“Look, I know it must feel like absolute rubbish right now.” Harry said, “I get it. I know better than anyone what this is like. It’s happened to me my entire life. But after awhile, I learned that there was no point wasting my energy feeding into it. And that eventually, people would let it go and come around. Even though it doesn’t seem like that now. It’s happened that way every time. If you let them get to you– then you’re feeding into it. You’re giving them the satisfaction, you’re giving them what they want. You’re giving them the control. And it makes it worse for you.”
“I know that.” Draco replied, “It’s just that– quite frankly– I don’t know how to not let it get to me. I can bluff as much as I want, act like it doesn’t bother me, but deep down, it continuously boils and festers. Growing up as an aristocrat, you know, it’s been embedded into me- pounded, drilled into my head– to always care about reputation and…things like that.”
“I get it. I know what it’s like to have to uphold a certain reputation. I know the pressures of a title and name. You know I do.”
Draco nodded, “I know.” he said, “Just having someone understand helps loads.” he managed a smile. “But however did you manage to get passed it?”
“I just got used to it. I became desensitized and stopped giving a shit.” Harry replied, “And I had people who stuck with me through all of it. Which made it a bit easier.” He squeezed Draco’s hand, “You’re not alone this.”
“No. I’ve got you this time.” Draco replied, casting Harry a real– albeit weak– smile. Then he said, “Well perhaps, then, I just need to try harder to not let it get to me– because if I do, I'm stuck in a situation similar to the one I tried so hard to get out of over summer…”
“Exactly.”
Draco peered back out at the view. The small burst of confidence was once more overtaken by the usual anxiety and doubt.
“It’s just– well it seems the universe has decided to throw a wrench in that.” Draco replied, “The second my father hears about this– the moment he sees that article…I will hear it from him. And it won’t be pleasant.”
Harry scooted closer, and slightly tilted his head to rest against Draco’s shoulder. Draco sighed against him, and leaned towards Harry as well.
““Your parents can’t really do anything from where they are in Wiltshire. Other than send strongly worded notes.” Harry reassured.
Draco pulled back, “I don’t want their strongly worded notes. I don’t want anything to do with them. But the stupid article in the Prophet has given them a way to get to me. Now they know I’m back at school.”
“Who said you have to respond to any strongly worded notes?” Harry asked. Draco perked up.
“You could very easily just ignore them– use them as fuel for our fireplace instead.” Harry suggested.
“Tempting, but knowing me I wouldn’t be able to stand NOT knowing what they say.”
“You could always read the letter, then burn it.” Harry offered again, “It’d be like a... symbolic “fuck you.”.”
A meek chuckle escaped Draco’s throat like a breathy exhale. “A symbolic “fuck you”?” he echoed.
“Yeah. I mean what better way to say you don’t give a damn what someone thinks than by literally destroying what they have to say to you?”
“Actually, I can’t say I’m entirely opposed to that idea.” Draco replied, “It’s one of your better ones.” Draco looped his arm around Harry’s, kissed Harry on the cheek, and leaned back into him.