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Percy was walking back from a blazing row with the four Head of Houses and Headmaster Dumbledore.
He had been trying to get those stupid, unsportsmanlike badges banned. Harry was a child. A young one who had just faced a dragon, at 14. Even dragon-mad Charlie hadn't been allowed near an actual dragon until he was 17.
Percy knew the last thing Harry needed was the extra pressure of that Malfoy brat and all his little cronies sneering at him, using those deplorable Potter stinks badges to do so.
Percy let out a deep sigh as he wandered the Hogwarts corridors. Why were all the teachers ignoring this?
He was so lost in thought that he hadn't noticed the two figures in front of him and so he ended up bumping into both Cedric Diggory and Viktor Krum as they were talking about who knows what. Percy didn't actually care what they were talking about as he pulled his shoulders back to look at the pair of them. Whilst he was the same height as Diggory, his lanky frame made him appear taller, and he was slightly taller than Krum, pity he was built like a beanpole to their broad shoulders, but either way he had perfected looking down his nose at someone, and that's just what he did.
He gave Krum a small head nod as the man helped steady Percy, pulled himself back and straightened his robes. When satisfied he turned to Cedric.
“Diggory, just the man I needed to see,” he said in his own pompous way.
Cedric couldn't help but smirk, here was Percy Weasley, sniffing him out, finally. He put on his “pretty boy” smile and looked at Percy.
“Hey Perc, haven't seen you in a while,” he said with a laid back smile.
Percy looked at him unimpressed. “You mean since I graduated, or when you were around The Burrow at the end of the holidays? What do you expect Cedric? You're at school and I'm at work?” he said haughtily.
“The Burrow?” Krum asked.
“My home,” Percy said without preamble, he had worked hard to not be embarrassed about his life and he would be damned if some international star had anything to say about it. Percy could insult the Burrow until the snitch came home, but no one else was allowed too.
“It's so cool Krum. Their house is all add ons, an orchard and chickens. It’s nothing like my house, more ramshackle,” Cedric said in a way he thought was complimentary. It however had the opposite effect on Percy as Viktor noticed his ears going pink and his freckles standing out more.
“Yes, yes. Anyway, I need to speak to you Cedric,” Percy said, ignoring the last part of their conversation.
“Now? In private?” Cedric asked, almost leering at Percy. It wasn't his fault that he had fancied Percy since he had seen him snogging Oliver Wood behind the broom sheds a couple of years ago. Percy had been a beautiful shade of red and Cedric had wanted to be the one to cause Percy to go that shade of pink.
Percy, however, hardly even noticed Cedric, apart from when he was with Percy’s brothers. Brothers who had said he was barking up the wrong tree and that Percy didn't fancy cool people, he was much too boring for that. But Cedric remembered that heated kiss between Percy and Oliver. He remembered it being his bi-sexual awakening and realising Percy was anything but boring beneath that stuffy facade. He was probably a hellcat and a half when he wanted to be, and Cedric really wanted to release that side of him, as fast as possible. Sadly, the scoff that Percy let out dissuaded him from the fantasies flitting quickly through his brain at that moment.
“Why would I want to speak with you privately?” Percy asked, confused, but not allowing Cedric any time to actually answer. “No, as the action is exceptionally public, the reprimand should be as well,” Percy said, crossing his arms as he glared at Cedric.
Cedric had seen that glare aimed at so many students over the years, but never at him and he had to say he wasn't a fan of it. He put on his most charming smile and tried again, “Ohh, ok. What's the problem, Perc? You sure you don't want to go for a walk and discuss it?” he asked with an eyebrow wiggle that made Percy glare even harder and Krum turn a laugh into a cough.
Damn, Cedric had forgotten about Krum being there.
“I just said no, Cedric. Stop it! I wanted to talk to you about those,” Percy said, pointing at the badge on Cedric's chest.
“Oh, my badge? Well, um…” he said, flushing slightly. “Do you want one?”
“Do I want one?” Percy spluttered out. “Of course I don't want one! Why in Merlin’s name would I want one, honestly?” he cried out exasperated, taking a quick glance at Krum who was obviously sniggering.
“Oh.” Cedric said, voice suddenly sadder. “ I thought you might want to support me too,” he said shyly.
Percy just sighed, he was aware of Diggory's little crush, though like the twins he didn't understand it himself. Still, Cedric was his brother’s friend so he wanted to try being kind to him.
“I do support you Cedric. I hope you win. For you, Hufflepuff and Hogwarts, but I want you to take that badge off and never wear it again,” he replied.
“Why?” Cedric asked quizzically.
“Why? Why? Really Diggory, why?” Percy asked, voice getting higher the more incredulous he became. He waved his hand and the badge changed. “That's bloody why,” Percy seethed through his teeth.
“It's just a badge Percy and I don't wear it that way,” Cedric explained as he changed it back.
“That's not the point. Look at it!” Percy demanded changing it back to Potter stinks. “How can you walk around with it, knowing that the other side is mocking Harry. He is a child, one who just faced a bloody dragon. How you could willingly take anything off that Malfoy brat I will never know. But stop wearing them. Stop your friends wearing them and leave Harry alone,” Percy demanded.
Krum looked between the two other men, amazed at the conviction this red head and red faced man had over a badge, of all things. “And why would he do so?” Viktor found himself asking unexpectedly. He hadn't planned on saying anything at all.
“Because he isn't a bully and he is a Hufflepuff,. This isn't fair, or kind. And he has enough friends and influence to stop all but the Slytherins from wearing one. This is the last thing that Harry needs.”
“If the boy can not handle it, he shouldn’t have put his name into the Goblet,” Viktor said offhandedly.
Cedric groaned as he saw Percy puff his chest out. Here came that inevitable lecture.
“Excuse you! If my brother’s, who are two years older than Harry, couldn't get their names in the Goblet, it means someone let Harry’s in for whatever reason. It doesn't matter if he tried as a dumb 14 year old. It only matters that he succeeded. Also, being strong, or brave or talented or any other amazing quality doesn't mean you should be bullied by your peers. This isn't the first time Harry has had to deal with this here, and I will be damned if I allow it again. Destroy it Cedric, or I will get the twins involved with anyone I have seen wearing them. I'm sure Hermione has a list somewhere with names that she will happily allow me to use,” Percy said unhappily as he turned and stomped off. Hoping that Cedric would listen to reason.
Percy knew that Harry wasn't always the most reliable when it came to the stories and adventures that he usually dragged Ronald and Hermione into, but the boy had saved Ginny from who knows what, and Percy would never get the image of a small, scrawny Harry, with gaunt cheeks and bars on his window, out of his mind. He had brought that up with his parents and Dumbledore but was assured Harry was fine. Considering Harry had now been entered into a death tournament, Percy was no longer sure he believed Dumbledore’s version of fine. And if Dumbledore had lied about the “Saviours'' health and safety, what else was he lying about?
Percy pondered this as he walked back to his chambers, sending a patronus to the twins to ask them to meet him as soon as they were able. They would appreciate his need for retribution in Harry’s defence if it came to that.
Stomping off, Percy couldn't see the admiring looks he was receiving off both of the men that he had left behind in his wake. Not that he would have believed that that was why their eyes were following him.
No one admired Percy after all. They mocked and insulted him, meaning he ended up having to hold his head up higher and higher. He wasn't willing to accept that for Harry too if he could do anything to stop it.
Percy stopped his rambling thoughts as soon as he saw the twins approaching him. Percy smiled at them in a way they instantly recognised, a smug smile appearing on their faces in turn as they walked into Percy’s chambers to plot revenge, just in case they needed it .
Percy couldn't help but feel relief as he scurried around Hogwarts for Mr Crouch and saw less and less of those vile badges. He also saw some of the weight drop off Harry’s shoulders as less and less students were heckling him in the corridors. Percy was sure it was a relief for the boy, especially as Percy had smuggled a letter to Sirius for him, one Harry was worried someone like that dreadful Skeeter woman would have gotten ahold of.
Percy was now helping with the preparations for the Yule Ball and he was not impressed. As if he wanted to be sat there with all those horny teenagers, 4 of them related to him, 5 if you counted Harry as most of his family did. He felt the grimace on his face as he went towards the little office he had been given. He cursed himself as he walked into another person. This was too many times in as many days. He lifted his head hoping it wasn't Cedric, who had been giving him coy grins ever since their last conversation. Percy ended up using his brothers and Ginny for interference so he wasn't caught by him. He just didn't have the time or inclinationto deal with Cedric.
Ginny in particular thought it was hilarious considering all the trouble they had gotten into during the whole Chamber debacle with Penelope. Having his little sister sniggering at him seemed to be the lesser of two evils though. As if Percy wanted to get involved with a champion, one not only younger than him, but his twin brother’s friend.
To Percy’s relief it wasn't Cedric who he had bumped into, but to his embarrassment it was Krum, again.
“Ohh, I'm so sorry, please excuse me,” he said as he stepped to the side.
Sadly Krum stepped the same way and gave a soft laugh. Percy felt himself give an involuntary shiver at how deep his voice was but disregarded the feeling, He had a job to do after all.
“Красивият човек на огъня (man of fire)." Victor couldn't take his eyes off Percy’s face. “Красивият човек на огъня (man of fire)” he said, almost mesmerised by Percy’s freckles. He had never seen so many on one face.
Percy felt his face flame up even more and decided to leave as quickly as he could.
“Well, um, thanks.” he mumbled out as he beat a hasty retreat, clutching his files close to his chest.
He couldn't help but think of the differences between Diggory and Krum as he speed walked back to his office, unable to get his flaming hot face under control. To his utter mortification the twins were also in the same corridor and noticed him, and his bright red face immediately. Percy couldn't help the groan that left him. He loved his brothers, he really did, but sometimes he dreaded seeing them. He knew this would be one of those times.
“Hey Perc, why are you so red?” Fred asked. George was just leant against the wall smiling.
“Leave it Fred,” Percy barked at him, annoyed already.
“I'm not Fr…!
“No, you're Fred, he’s George. That hasn't worked since I was 5, you demon duo. It only really works on mum when she's already flustered, so knock it off yeah? I'm not in the mood,” Percy said angrily.
Fred and Geroge looked at one another. After seeing how hard Percy had fought to help Harry they had decided to lay off him a bit.
This time George stepped forward. “Hey, sorry Perc, just horsing around. You ok?” he asked.
Percy looked at the pair of them, waiting for the punchline of the joke that he always ended up being the butt off, but felt himself relaxing as they didn't say anything else.
Percy gestured for them to follow him into his chambers where he opened his trunk. “I needed to see you two anyway,” he said happily.
Fred and George looked at one another, confused. Percy rarely needed or wanted their help, or to see them in general.
Percy, obviously, must have seen what they were thinking. “It’s not for me. It's for you two and Ron,” he continued.
“What’s for us and Ron?” George asked, confused.
“This," Percy said as he threw a pouch at George who easily caught it and weighed it in his hand.
“Blimey Perc. There's loads here,” he said, impressed.
“Umm ... whats it for?” Fred asked, confused.
“Robes,” Percy answered quickly.
“Robes?” the twins asked together quizzically.
Percy just sighed at them. “Yes robes. I saw the ones mum was going to send Ron. They belonged to Great-Uncle Septimus Weasley. It isn't fair on him. There's enough there for you two, Ron and Ginny to get new outfits for the ball,” he said, face going red from the looks the twins were giving him.
“Perc …” George croaked out.
“It isn't all from me, don't worry,” he said waving his hand, as though to wave their thanks away. “Bill and Charlie sent some over for you all too, and when I sent that letter to Sirius I mentioned Harry may need new dress robes too. Sirius said he had it covered and he and Professor Lupin sent some extra money for you all to have a good time. His exact words were that he can't have his family being outdone by Malfoy’s and stinking Death Eater children of all people,” Percy recited, his face deadpan.
Fred and George couldn't help themselves as they cracked up. When they had sobered up a bit, George looked thoughtful. “I didn't know Sirius considered us family.”
“Apparantly we actually are. 3rd cousins or some pureblood nonsense, but yeah. He said he couldn't ever repay what we did for Harry and any family of Harry’s is his family too. He appreciated everything mum and dad and you lot do for him ...” he explained, trailing off.
“And you. We know we get on your back, and you're a bit of a pretentious prat Perc, but you're our brother too. Thank you,” Fred said, quickly pulling a surprised Percy into a huge hug that George soon joined.
Percy enjoyed the unspoilt moment of being close with his siblings.
He disliked them a large portion of the time, but by Merlin did he love them all.
Percy had been so happy when Ginny had come running into his chambers to show him her new dress. She had been shopping with Hermione and Percy had to agree that the two tone green dress suited her much more than the childish green and pink one their mother had wanted to send her.
Harry and Ron had come in a few days later to show their's off too. Harry was sporting a set of black dress robes with a white shirt and white bowtie whilstRon had gone the other way. He was wearing a pale grey set with a black waistcoat and bowtie. Percy wanted to ask if they were going together but wasn't sure how to approach it.
He may have to send another letter to Sirius about Harry’s education in that area.
He had ummed and ahhed and appreciated the pair of them when the twins had suddenly come bursting in the room in a riot of colour. They both had on basic black dress robes, though pretty fine ones, but George had a turquoise bow tie and a purple waistcoat, and Fred had the opposite with a turquoise waistcoat and a purple bowtie. Percy thought that on anyone else it would have looked absurd, but the twins really did pull it off well.
He happily shared how glad he was that they all looked respectable, going back to his formal way of speaking to hide his own emotions. He was excitedly, stupidly happy that they had all come to show him of their own free will. He was about to chivvy them along when Ron suddenly asked “what about you Perc? You're coming to, aren't you?”
Percy looked at them all shell shocked. Of course he was, and he didn't have an outfit. It was in less then a week.
“Shit, yes. Out, out.” he hurried them along. Ignoring the sniggers at his swearing. He was in a rush after all.
He left them all on the way to Gryffindor tower so he could make his way outside Hogwarts to apparate. He was in such a rush that he once again bumped into the solid form of Viktor Krum.
Krum grabbed him by both arms to steady Percy, and Percy couldn't stop himself as his hands fell to Krum’s chest.
Whether it was intentional or not Percy couldn't even tell himself, but what it was, was a very pleasant chest to press his hands against. As solid as Krum’s shoulders looked. Percy couldn't help slide his hand a little lower. Krum made a noise above him, bringing Percy back to reality.
Percy went bright red and stepped back, willing himself to speak, not that anything could make the embarrassment of accidentally feeling Krum up any better. Percy was mad at himself. He was here to do a job. He was going to make something of himself.
He loved his father, respected him, but knew deep down that he could do better. His father could do so much more in his career so that Percy wouldn't have to be sneaky to get his brothers and sister dress robes of all things. No, Krum may be broad, handsome and extremely attractive but it didn't matter. Percy had a plan, and handsome quidditch players who would fly away in a few months were not part of it.
Percy nodded at Krum and went to step away, but Krum followed his path with his own body. Percy stopped quickly. Looking at Krum. He raised his brows and drawled out “excuse you, you're in my way.”
Krum smiled and answered “yes.”
Yes, yes? That was all he could say Percy thought getting annoyed now. Annoyance was the perfect replacement for his previous embarrassment.
“Well, can you move please? I have an errand to run,” Percy sneered out.
“Oh, where are you going?” Krum asked, in that accented English that Percy would never admit to anyone made him weak in the knees.
Percy groaned at having to make conversation when he just wanted to get on with his tasks. “To Twilfit and Tattings. I am in need of dress robes," he finally replied. Standing still as he waited for Krum to get out of his way.
“Ahh, for the Ball, no? You are going?” Krum asked him with a smile.
Percy needed to get out of there fast, before he did something stupid. “Yes, for work, as I'm representing my boss, Bartemous Crouch Senior. Now I must go. Excuse me,” he said as he managed to step around Krum and start to rush out off the Hogwarts gates.
Before he made it too far he heard Krum shout out “I am wearing fur and red. If you match, we could dance.”
“I don't dance,” Percy called behind himself to Krum, embarrassed and excited at the blatant ask.
He wouldn't take Krum up on his offer of course, but he couldn't help his smile because handsome Viktor Krum wanted to dance with him. Percy Weasley. Would wonders never cease, he thought to himself with a smile and soft snort.
He didn't think about it much when he was getting fitted for his dove grey dress robes, however it was purely by coincidence that he ended up with a deep red tie and kerchief in his pocket. Purely coincidence, nothing more, after all, the red looked good against his white shirt. If that was something he had to tell himself again and again then so be it.
No, he decided as he was pulled and tugged around for his fitting, he just wouldn't allow his mind to wander in that direction.
Percy had just come from finishing up Mr Crouch's correspondence when he felt his arm being tugged into an empty classroom. The sharp pull made him drop his papers. He turned to see Cedric looking at him with an apologetic grin,
“Sorry Percy,” Cedric said, suddenly looking bashful.
Percy was busy, he would never dare say anything of course, but Mr Crouch wasn't doing his job and Mr Bagman was next to useless. It was Percy organising and signing for most things, the little things they both seem to have forgotten about, like arranging for the actual tournament cup to be brought out of its retirement home and to Hogwarts just before the final task. Has anyone else thought of it? No, so now “Weatherbe” (Percy thought to himself with anger) had to do it.
So, in short, he didn't have any time for whatever trick Cedric had up his sleeve. Percy just sighed out loud however, Cedric was his friend after all.
He plastered on a smile to get through the conversation as quickly as possible. The stack of files in his arms weren’t getting lighter after all.
“It's no bother, but I am quite busy Cedric. Is everything ok?” he asked, slightly concerned since he had been pulled into an empty space.
“Yeah, sorry. It's just, I was talking to the twins and they said you had gone and bought new dress robes. So, you wanna go to the Ball with me?” Cedric finally asked. His face bright red and all of his usual confidence having left him.
Percy sighed. He had explained to Cedric numerous times he wasn't interested, as much as he liked him as a friend. He didn't want to tread on any toes, plus, he just wasn't interested in Cedric like that. If Percy was honest with himself, Cedric reminded him of a less neurotic version of Oliver. Percy had loved Oliver, however the dickhead had wanted to stay closeted and he had wanted to drag Percy back in there with him.
Percy knew his own faults, he was haughty, arrogant, a lot of a know it all and as the twins liked to say, a pompous prat on occasion. All this was true as far as Percy was concerned, but he was also a valuable partner, he loved those he loved with his entire being and it had hurt when Oliver had laughed about being his boyfriend, wanting to stay as fuck buddies. Wanting Percy to wait at home for when Oliver came back from his matches and world tours.
Their final argument had been bitter, and resentful, with Oliver saying he would never take their relationship public, and that Percy could never be anything but an embarrassment locked away.
Percy had spent his whole life trying not to be seen in that light, or feel like an embarrassment to anyone. He refused to allow a romantic partner to make him feel like that ever again.
So no, Percy wasn't interested in Cedric for a multitude of reasons, reminding him of Oliver was but one of them, a very painful one however.
He looked at an eager Cedric and sighed. “Ced, I've told you, I'm not interested. I don't even want to go to the Ball, I'm going for work. I'm not dancing, I'm not singing. I'm going to sit there and do some paperwork, alright? Invite someone else, mate.” he said as he clapped Cedric on the shoulder and walked out, not waiting for a response.
Percy felt his headache blooming now. Both with sadness and anger at having to let Cedric down again and for the memories of his time with Oliver.
He made his way to the hospital wing, hopefully Madame Pomfrey would let him have a headache potion so he didn't have to go into town to get one.
To Percy’s immense gratitude Madame Pomfrey fretted around him and practically poured the potion down his throat. Whilst Percy could have done it himself, he was too relieved to feel the soothing effect the potion had on his headache to think anything of it.
Percy was about to leave when he heard voices from the other bed.
One of which was Harry.
Of course Harry was back in the hospital wing, Percy sighed to himself. That meant either Hermione or Ron, or both, were with him.
Percy made his way to the partially open curtain at the end of the bay and called out “Harry.”
Harry opened the curtain wider, meaning he wasn't the one in the bed. That thought made Percy bristle with worry as he pushed it fully open and saw a half naked Krum led half propped up on the bed.
Percy was going to say something, a lot of things, but all he could do was gulp at all of that dark, muscly flesh in his view that had coarse dark hair trailing over it. Percy felt his hands sweating, itching to reach out and stroke Krum’s beautiful body.
It took Harry calling his name a few times for Percy to be able to tear his eyes away from the feast laid out in front of him. He noticed Krum giving him an intense look and Percy cleared his throat, finally listening to what Harry was actually saying.
“So I just wondered about that Perc,” Harry prattled on.
Thankfully Percy knew Harry well enough to guess what he had been saying. The boy wasn't very original with his questions. It meant Percy pretty much knew what he was saying so was able to respond, even whilst he was still trying to slyly ogle Krum.
“I came in for a headache potion, heard you and decided I needed to see why you were in the hospital wing, and if not you, I figured it would be Ron or Hermione,” Percy said, smiling softly at Harry’s embarrassment at the truth. “You three are trouble magnetn, no?” he asked, eyebrows raised and a soft smile on his face.
“It’s not on purpose,” Harry mumbled.
“I know mate,” Percy said soothingly. “Why are you here anyway?” Percy finally asked him.
“Ohh …” Harry trailed off, unwilling to admit what had happened.
Percy just sighed. “Who was it, Harry? Have you told their Head of House?”
Harry couldn't stop the snort that left him.
“Ahh, Slytherins? You want me to talk to Snape?” Percy asked, knowing it wouldn't really make a difference but he would try if Harry wanted him too.
“No point, but thank you Percy,” Harry said looking at his hands, refusing to look up and see the concern in his face.
“I know some of their names,” Krum suddenly said.
“You do? Can you tell me please? Percy asked Krum politely.
“What's the point, Percy? Nothing will change. I was lucky Viktor was there this time. Even if we were both surprised,” Harry tried to explain.
Percy couldn't stop himself from smiling at Krum for that. Viktor was amazed at how beautiful it suddenly made Percy’s face.
“They were Phineas Parkinson, Georgiana Goyle, and Otis Bulstrode. The fools wouldn't shut up about their siblings in Harry’s year. Someone should do something. WIll Dumbledore?”
Viktor was surprised by the joint snorts the two Englishmen gave him. Their headmaster should help, but then again, the fact Harry was in the competition in the first place showed that maybe that wasn't the case.
“Look, whatever you did for Harry I appreciate it, but the names aren't going to the teachers. They won’t do anything,” Percy explained.
“Twins?” Harry asked.
“And Hermione. And you ...” Percy said, pointing a finger at Harry’s face, taken aback at how much like his mother he sounded. “You, don't walk around alone, even if you just go with Ron and Hermione. Stop being foolish!” he all but ordered the younger boy.
Harry just smiled and made his excuses to leave.
“Oy, what did I just tell you? Send me a patronus when you to the tower or I'm coming up,” Percy all but ordered Harry.
“Sir, yes Sir!” Harry said with a laugh as he walked off with a salute.
“Snarky sod!” Percy shouted after him, unable to hide the grin of fondness for Harry that was on his face.
“You are very kind to him,” Krum said, surprising Percy who had all but forgotten he was there for a moment.
“Why wouldn't I be? He's a good lad,” Percy replied, defensive.
“I didn't mean it in a bad way. You do not treat him like an enemy like the ... Snakes? Or like a hero. He is just a boy to you?” Krum asked, surprised.
“That's because he IS just a boy. My little brother's best friend. Little hard to hero worship the kid when we've spent the last few summers together. Harry is as much as family as Ronald or Ginevra,” Percy explained, waiting quietly until he saw Prongs cantering in.
“I'm here. Happy? And Ron said your mum said to send a letter,” the patronus said sassily. Percy couldn't help the chuckle that left him as he waved the stag away. Turning back around to Krum who was staring at the patronus slack jawed.
“Haven't you seen a patronus before? Percy asked Krum with a raised eyebrow.
“Of course, mine is a shark, I'm just surprised that a 14 year old can make a corporeal patronus with what looks like no issue,” he explained.
Percy just laughed. “You just saw that 14 year old take on a full grown dragon and win. And unlike some older wizards, his dragon didn't smash her eggs …” he trailed off with a testing smile.
He wouldn't admit to anyone about the shiver it caused him when Krum threw his head back and laughed. It was a deep, sensual sound that reverberated through Percy. Making him flush and quickly bid Krum a goodbye.
He stopped in the doorway as he heard a gruff “What is your Patronus?”
Percy didn't say anything but couldn't wipe the smile off his face when he heard Krum cooing at the peacock patronus that he had conjured.
Percy smiled all the way back to his chambers. Amazed at how different Hogwarts felt now that he was an adult. If high school had been this easy during his last 7 years he would have been much happier.
The next week went by quickly, with Percy having to deal with both his workload and Mr Crouch’s. Being Head of the International Department of Magical Cooperation was a big job, especially with the fiasco that had been the World Cup not too long ago. Percy was still having to sort out the letters and howlers from that incident. His ears often rang after a long day at work because of it.
Percy still had so many important letters to write, ones that had to be out by the end of the next week and this whole Ball thing was making it much harder to do his work. Especially because his siblings kept coming in and out of his chambers.
The fact that Ron asked him, Percy of all people, how to pick a date felt like a joke to Percy. He wouldn't know how to get a date if he even wanted to. Not that he wanted to of course. He wanted to stay in his room and work. The fact that Krum’s face swam before his eyes was irrelevant.
As Mr Crouch was once again indisposed, it meant that Percy had to actually go to the ball in his stead. Something he was not thrilled about, even if he had bought an outfit beforehand. He would be grateful when this was all over at least.
Percy found himself making more of an effort to look good than he had initially planned too. If he slicked his hair back a bit more, made sure his suit was at its best and that his shoes shining brightly, well that was no one's business but his own.
He grabbed his satchel and shrunk it, and the papers inside, so it would fit in his pocket. He planned on sitting for the opening at the top table like he had too, and then sitting in a dark corner and finishing what he needed to do. He was NOT going to get involved witht he ball in any way!
Percy sat at the top table with the other Ministry Officials, already fed up with Bagman's bragging and the quaffle coming out of his mouth. He sat there quietly, nodding along, his teeth gritted with the effort not to say anything to the man who had cheated his brothers of their hard saved money.
He was relieved when the lights finally went low and the music started. He watched impassively as the french champion and her date came in. He also smiled at Cedric when he came in with Cho Chang. Hoping that it meant Cedric had moved on so Percy beamed at him, smile fading a little when Cedric winked back at him.
His jaw suddenly dropped when he saw Krum walk in. He looked gorgeous, solid, dark and so strong in his red outfit and his thick fur cape. Percy was so mesmerised by Krum’s mere presence that he almost missed who had walked in on his arm.
Percy sat there confused and really upset that Krum had Hermione, of all people, on his arm.
She was a child!
Percy sat there, almost missing Harry’s shy entrance, the Patil girl on his arm was anything but though. It was a good job really, Percy thought with a wince as she was able to make the poor lad look at least half decent. Percy avoided looking at Krum and Hermione who were gliding across the floor in favour of looking for his siblings in the crowded hall.
Ginevra looked lovely, stood next to a nervous Neville. Percy made a mental reminder to get the memory and send it to their mum. She would love it.
The twins were happily laughing with their dates and Lee Jordon and his date, but Ron had a scowl on his face, making him look miserable. Percy followed his brother’s line of sight and saw him glaring at Krum.
Ahh, he thought, he could relate.
Percy sat there fuming quietly, understanding he had no reason to be jealous really, and justifying his feelings by being angry at Krum, an international Quidditch star, who was an adult in both Magical and Muggle worlds and who had brought Hermione as a date. Were there no older girls who were fawning all over him?.
As soon as the Ball was over Percy had every intention of checking Hermione was alright and making sure Krum would go far, far away from her. She deserved an older brother looking out for her too.
Percy was almost ecstatic when the lights rose slightly and he was able to escape the top table. He made it a point to head to Harry and Ron first.
“Why are you two being all miserable over here?” he asked as he approached them.
All he received from Ron was a grunt as he continued watching Hermione glide across the floor. Harry however was a little more forthcoming.
“I don't like the Ball,” Harry admitted quietly.
“I know Harry, and I'm sorry you have to stay here. I know you wanted to spend Christmas with them, but the girls you came with aren't having a good time either are they? Just talk to them. They’re your friends, right? Have a couple of dances. Go find Neville and Ginny, or the twins are always worth a laugh. Just try and enjoy it, yeah? We're all forced to be here, you may as well try and have some fun,” Percy said kindly to Harry.
His tone suddenly changed as he looked at Ron. “You, smile! I'm sending the memory to mum and she will literally twist your ear off if she thinks you're being mardy. Drag your eyes off Hermione and next time remember to ask her first, got it?” he challenged Ron.
Ron just pulled a face at his brother before giving him a hard done by sigh. “Yeah, yeah. I’ll go dance. Hey, Harry, bet the twins have spiked the punch,” Ron said, suddenly excited.
Percy just rolled his eyes. “That's a losing bet Harry, don't take it. And yeah, I didn't hear that. I will be in the corner, come get me if you need me,” he said as he walked away. Muttering about brothers and fools and creeps under his breath. He must have been giving off some kind of"stay away" vibe as he walked because the crowd parted for him, making it easier for him to sequester himself away in a dark corner.
He sat happily with the cup of tea that the wonderful Dobby had fetched for him, slogging away at the correspondence he had brought with him.
He was interrupted by a cough. Looking up he saw Cedric stood there.
“Hey Percy,” He said grinning down at him. Percy gave him a strained smile, hoping he would leave quickly.
“You alright Cedric? Having fun?” Percy felt forced to ask.
“Yeah, yeah. Anyway, I was wondering …”
“No,” Percy said immediately, not allowing Cedric to finish his question.
Cedric looked taken aback, “I didn't even ask it.”
“You don't need to. I don't know how I'm supposed to tell you I'm not interested. I don't want to dance. I don't want to date you, and I think you should go back to Miss Chang who is glaring at me. I don't want any teenage drama in my life Cedric. I'm trying to work.” he said calmly, wishing he could just tell Cedric to go away.
“Wow, talk about harsh,” Cedric blurted out.
“I wouldn't be harsh if you bloody well listened to me Cedric. Your my friend, you are the twin's friend. I. Am. Not. Interested,” he said through gritted teeth.
“Yeah, whatever,” Cedric said as he stormed off, bypassing Cho and heading to the spiked punch. Percy just sighed and bent his head over his work again.
He managed to get through half of his stack of letters before George came over to nudge him.
“For goodness sake Georgie, couldn't you have called me, now I have to write this one again,” he grumbled at his younger brother.
“Ohh, I'm sorry Percy. I didn't realise you were writing. How can you even see in this light?” he questioned.
“Practice,” Percy laughed. “Don’t worry about it though really. You alright?” he checked with his brother.
“Yeah,I just thought you should see this, for mum and the memories and all,” George said as he motioned to the dance floor.
Percy looked up, smiling at the sight before him. Harry was dancing with Ginny, smiles on their faces, his date was dancing with Neville, Ron’s date was happily twirling with someone Percy didn't know, which meant they were not a Gryffindor. But the thing that made him smile most was that Ron and Hermione were dancing together, huge smiles on their faces as they laughed and giggled with one another.
He was happy that his brother was finally having fun, and that he had nice memories to send their mum of the evening.
“Thanks for showing me George, but go on. Have fun, Alicia is waiting right?” he asked, laughing as George's ears went pink. The curse of being a redhead Percy thought with a snigger at his brother's blush. “Go on George, don't let Fred take all the limelight,” Percy said as he ushered his brother away.
George went back to Alicia, giving a grin and a thumbs up back to Percy as he spun her around. Percy felt blessed to see all of his younger siblings having fun. It was starting to feel difficult to do so in real life, what with everything that was going on at the minute.
He sat back down and vanished the ruined letter, grabbing another sheet. He saw a shadow and looked up laughing. “What now Geor… Oh.” he trailed off as he saw it was Krum standing over him and not one of his many siblings.
He was about to smile, when he remembered he was angry at Krum. “What do you want?” Percy snarled at him.
Krum was not expecting that reaction and his smile turned to a frown. “Are you alright, Percy?” Krum asked him worriedly.
“I will be when you go away,” Percy said angrily. “And stay away from Hermione. I will set the collective mayhem that is the twins, Ginny, Harry and Ron on you if you don't,” he said, suddenly standing up to glare at Krum. “She's 14 you creep,” he all but snarled out, his hand itching to grab his wand and curse Krum to kingdom come.
Krum just looked at Percy flabbergasted. “Yes, she is my friend.” he said slowly, confused.
“And I'm an owl. Stay away from her. She's just a child. She doesn't need an adult chasing after her,” he fumed at Krum.
“I do not know what you mean by chasing? She was helping me with my English in the library,” Krum tried to explain himself, still confused.
It took a moment for Viktor to translate exactly what Percy meant, before he let out an incredulous laugh. “Wait, wait, no, she is a child. I would never,” he said, defending himself.
Percy was still glaring at him and Viktor wouldn't admit it, but that flush of anger was extremely attractive. If only the other anger was directed somewhere else, like back at Diggory again. “She is my friend Percy. She said no one had asked her to come to the ball and too many people who were willing to talk to that Rita cow had asked me,” He carried on, ignoring Percy’s spluttering.
“As you say, she's a child. But she is an intelligent one who was willing to help me. I do not find children attractive Percy, especially girl ones,” Viktor said pointedly.
Percy had been ready to tear Krum down right there and then, like the lion he was. The same way his mother would defend one of her kids, when he suddenly stopped mid word. Looking at Krum, unsure if he believed him.
“You can ask her?” Krum said, reading Percy’s face correctly. “Or the truth potion? I do not know how to say it in English, but I shall take it if you demand it. Where can I buy it from?” he asked, looking as though he would go and buy Veritaserum right then and there if it reassured Percy. “I have to say, your defence of Harry and Hermione is very attractive,” Krum almost whispered as he took a step closer to Percy.
Percy was trying to adjust to not needing to curse Krum , when he suddenly found him much closer. All Percy could do was gape at him.
“It is?” he asked self-consciously.
“Yes.” Viktor all but purred as he took Percy’s wand hand in his own and stroked his larger thumb over the clenched knuckles. “As is the colour of your ears when you become emotional,” Vijtor continued as he raised the hand and kissed the back off it, causing said ears to go even pinker.
Percy felt like he was in another universe. Why was this extremely handsome international star here, kissing his hand after Percy had just ripped into him. It made no sense to him.
“You do not see what I do about you Mr Weasley,” Krum said in that deep voice of his as he took another step so they were almost flush against one another. “And I did notice the red tie. It's very fetching on you,” Krum said with a predatory grin.
Percy was still standing there, blinking up at him like an owl, eyes suddenly looking large with surprise.
“You are mesmerising Percy. Strong, confident, loving. Any man would be lucky to call you theirs,” Viktor continued.
“They ... They would?” he asked, having to clear his throat to get the words out properly.
“Yes, they would. Do not forget that you are a treasure.” Viktor carried on.
“Ohhh ...” Percy said, unsure what to actually say.
Viktor just laughed deep and low. He let go of Percy’s hand and swept into an elegant bow, leaving Percy surprised and feeling like one of the blushing maidens in his mum’s romance books. “Mr Weasley, I would be honoured if you would dance with me,” Viktor asked.
Percy just stammered not sure what to say as he made a half hearted gesture to the pile of paperwork behind him.
Krum stood and took his first step backwards, suddenly losing a lot of his for-sure attitude. “I apologise. I didn't mean to interrupt. I shall leave you to it,” he said as he went to walk away.
Percy watched him about to leave and grabbed his arm. “No, Krum. wait,” Percy managed to say.
The frown on Viktors face didn't fade at Percy’s spluttered words. In fact it grew deeper. “My name is Viktor, you may use it if you wish,” he said gravely.
“Ok. Sorry, sorry Kr … Viktor. If you wait a moment I have to just put it all away,” he tried to explain.
Viktor’s frown suddenly turned into a beaming smile as he waited for Percy to gather his work up.
Percy quickly turned to the table, scooping everything up and shrinking it with a wave of his hand. Viktor raised an eyebrow at the easy use of wandless magic. Percy was indeed a marvel.
Percy took a few steadying breaths, most to get his knees to hold him up properly before turning around. “Ok. I'm ready, if you're sure?” he double checked.
Viktor just grinned and took Percy’s hand gently as he rested it on his own arm. The crowd parted for him as he ushered Percy onto the dance floor. “Do you wish to lead?” VIktor asked.
Percy just shook his head, he’d end up making them fall flat on their faces if he was in the lead. Viktor didn't wait for more than that and he placed his hand in Percy’s and the other on his waist. Percy could almost feel the heat of that hand through his suit. He couldn't help the flush that covered him as Viktor made them soar around the dance floor.
Percy lost track of how many dances they shared, lost track of anything but Viktor’s hands on him, Viktor’s scent in his nose, how strong Viktors hands felt holding him. All Percy could see was Viktor, Viktor, Viktor, and he felt like he never wanted him to let go.
Sadly, all too soon as far as Percy was concerned, they did slow, and Viktor let go of the hand in his own but didn't let go off Percy’s waist.
“I apologise, but I need a drink. Would you like one?” Viktor asked Percy charmingly.
It took a moment of Percy to get his brain to work again properly. “What .. ohh, yeah. I mean, yes please. That would be lovely,” he said trying to gain control of himself. He couldn't help the answering smile that formed after he saw Viktor’s.
“Very well. Come then. I believe the punch is this way?” Viktor said as he was already leading the way.
They got halfway to the punch bowl when Percy suddenly pulled him back. Viktor turned to look at him in confusion. Viktor heard Percy mumble something but couldn't make it out clearly. “What is it любими (my favourite)? What is wrong?” he asked, suddenly concerned.
“I forgot to tell you but my brothers spiked the punch,” Percy explained a little louder this time. Feeling embarrassed by their antics. Not that he would admit that to anyone of course.
“Ahh, I see. Where can we get a no spiked drink?” Viktor asked, concerned that Percy needed one after all that dancing.
Percy just smiled and pulled Viktor into an alcove, groaning as he heard a mix of voices calling after him. He turned and glared at all of his siblings and their friends looking at him. He sent a stinging hex in their general direction as they hooted and darted away in different directions.
Viktor just watched the show and laughed. “You are close to your siblings, no?” he asked, smiling at the display they were putting on.
Percy just groaned and banged his head on the wall behind him. “Sometimes. And yet sometimes I wish I could be as close as Bill and Charlie, as in, another bloody country,” Percy whined.
Viktor would happily admit he found the whining endearing. At least before his ears caught up with Percy’s words. “Wait, are there more siblings?” he asked, surprised.
Percy just sighed. “Yeah, I have two older brothers, 3 younger brothers, a little sister and a Harry. We're a large family,” he admitted.
Viktor was in awe. Wixen families were often much smaller than their Muggle counterparts. But to be one of 7 was a wonder. He said as much to Percy who just snorted. “I mean, it is. But sometimes it's a lot, you know?” he tried to explain.
Viktor just smiled softly at Percy again. “I do not know, I am an only child. Just me. It is why I spent most of my childhood in the air, it helped stop me feeling the loneliness. You understand?” Viktor asked.
“No,” Percy admitted through a snort. “I hate flying. I only ever do it when they pester me to join in the games at The Burrow with them. I'd rather keep my feet on the ground, forever, if I had my own way,” Percy admitted. Probably not the smartest thing to say to the man who had crowded him into the wall with those shoulders made broad from his many years on a broom.
“Maybe you would like to get on a broom with me? I'm sure I can make it interesting?” Viktor asked Percy seductively.
Percy found himself swallowing the saliva in his mouth. Looking at him like that, he would let Viktor do anything he wanted to him. He was half relieved and half annoyed when he suddenly heard a whizz above their heads. They both looked up and saw the mistletoe hanging above them,
Percy swore under his breath, pushing Viktor back a bit so he could peer around him. There was Fred, which meant George wasn't far behind.
Fred sent him an impish grin, causing Percy to scowl back at him. “One moment” he murmured to Viktor as he looked at his brother.
“Which Mistletoe is it?” Percy shouted at Fred.
“Guess!” Fred shouted back.
“If it's the charmed one, I'm going to murder you all. Slowly!” Percy hollered back, surprising Viktor.
“Spoilers Percy, spoilers,” Fred said as he ran off cackling like a bloody child.
“Ughhh,” Percy groaned out, annoyed beyond belief at his siblings. If Viktor still wasn't pressed up against him tightly he would have remembered why he didn't want to be at a ball with his siblings in the first place.
Viktor found himself laughing again. He couldn't remember the last time he had laughed this much. “Come my лъв (lion). Do you wish to leave your siblings behind?” Viktor asked Percy.
“What does that mean?” Percy asked in return, still shivering at the way Viktor had said the word like it was a caress.
“What does what mean?” Viktor asked, confused.
“That word? The one you just called me?” Percy asked again.
“Ohh,” Viktor said, flushing slightly himself now. “It means Lion. Lions are special in Bulgaria, like you are special to me,” Viktor finally explained.
Percy couldn't help himself. He moved forward and closed all the distance between them so every part of their fronts were touching. Percy felt Viktor's indrawn breath and felt a small amount of power at it. He put a hand on either of Viktor’s sides.
Percy smiled at him as he said “the mistletoes charmed, we can't leave.”
“We can't?” Viktor asked. “Why would your brother charm a plant?”
“Because it's mistletoe,” Percy answered.
“Yes, but it is only good for chickens, I do not understand,” Viktor tried to explain, even though he wasn't sure why he was explaining the plant above them in the first place.
“Ohh” Percy said in understanding. “Do you not use mistletoe at Christmas in Bulgaria?” he checked.
“No, why would we?”
“Right, well, in England, if you're caught under the mistletoe you have to give the other person a kiss. And this misletoe is charmed by the Weasley twins, which means unless you are family, it has to be a real kiss, not a peck on the cheek or something.” Percy tried to explain through his nervousness.
Viktor didn't look as happy at the idea as Percy was feeling. “You wish to kiss me or we can not leave this area?” Viktor asked sadly. “I do not like this charm,” he stated.
Percy quickly grabbed one of Viktor’s hands and kissed the back of it like Viktor had done to his own earlier. He then turned it around and kissed the pulse on his wrist, revelling in the breath Viktor took. “I wish to kiss you because I have wanted to since I first bumped into you, Viktor. Not because of the plant. The mistletoe just means I was able to gain the courage to tell you so,” Percy explained as he looked at Viktors lips.
Viktor noticed where Percy’s eyes were locked and licked his own. “I do not think it is courage you lack my смел лъв (brave lion)” Viktor said.
“What …” Percy asked, breath hitching as Viktor moved closer, one hand stroking down Perc’s face, the other gripping the nape of his neck.
“It means brave lion. My brave, courageous, handsome lion. If you wish to be mine of course?” Viktor whispered to Percy, the words making the other man's lips tingle.
“Yes. Yes please?” Percy answered, waiting. It felt like hours and yet it felt like no time at all before Viktor crashed his lips against Percy’s. Percy felt like he was being devoured. Like the fireworks that were exploding in the night sky were actually doing so in his stomach. It felt like his entire world had shifted and he was right where he wanted to be. Right where he was supposed to be. Right where he had never known he needed to be. Brave, courageous or not, it didn't matter because he was unequivocally Viktor’s now, the same way Viktor was his.
Viktor was someone Percy refused to let go of ever again.
He was content to stay there, standing under the mistletoe sharing soft kisses and whispers with his Viktor for the rest of the night. Percy would be prepared to stay there for the rest of forever if that was possible. Wrapped up in VIktor’s arms, and Viktor wrapped up in Percy’s heart.