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bottom_draco_commPart 4
*
The night before Harry's birthday, they had a quiet dinner, with just the four of them. There were plans for a birthday luncheon the next day, before they headed out as a group to face off with Tom Riddle. Harry was excited and terrified, and exceptionally jumpy. The next day was his seventeenth birthday, and he wasn't convinced he would live to see his eighteenth.
He was pacing the room, while Draco watched placidly from the bed. He'd tried to lie down earlier, but his mind was racing and his body too full of nervous energy to rest. There was simply too much riding on his actions the next day and he could admit even to himself that he was over thinking it.
“You know, there's nothing you could have trained at that would leave you better prepared,” Draco commented.
“I know.”
“And we've researched absolutely everything we could to make sure it'll work,” he added.
“I know.”
“And you're driving me crazy with all this pacing,” Draco stood up from the bed, and began to chase Harry down. It didn't take long as the room was not very big.
“Draco, let me go,” Harry said, glaring at his boyfriend as Draco cornered him between the dresser and the wall.
“You're just going to exhaust yourself, and then you won't be at your best tomorrow,” Draco said, moving close and running his hands up Harry's chest, under his shirt. Harry shivered.
“I know, but I just can't relax,” Harry admitted, sighing.
“Then perhaps I can think of a way to relax you,” Draco replied, pressing his body against Harry's, his intent unmistakeable.
“I'm not sure I'm in the mood,” Harry tried to slide out from between Draco's arms, but Draco was not letting go that easily.
“Since when are you not in the mood?” Draco asked sceptically. “Come to bed, I'm sure I can do something to change your mood.”
“Alright,” Harry agreed at last. “But I make no promises.”
“Fair enough,” Draco said, tugging Harry's t-shirt over his head, before doing the same with his own. He manoeuvred Harry backwards until he could go no further, then pushed him down onto his back.
“Scoot up,” he commanded, and Harry obeyed. Draco climbed on top of him, pressing his naked chest against Harry's as he brought their lips together, kissing him softly before sliding his tongue into Harry's willing mouth.
They tugged each others clothes off as Draco kissed Harry until he was breathless. He shifted to the side, sucking his way down Harry's neck, not leaving any marks until he reached his collarbone, where he sucked deeply, bringing the blood to the skin deliberately. Then he continued downwards, leaving a trail of wet skin and love bites as he went. He spent particular time on Harry's sensitive hipbones, avoiding his cock which was now hard despite Harry's previous protests.
“Draco, that's wonderful,” Harry sighed, brushing his hands over Draco's hair, but not urging him further. He let Draco do what he wanted to, no pressure. But Draco was not in the mood to waste any time.
“Lift your hips,” he said after he had unfastened Harry's jeans, using the tilt of Harry's hips to pull them down all the way. He stripped Harry naked, taking everything off in one long pull. Leaning in, he licked his way around Harry's navel, torturing him with feather light licks on his hipbones again before taking the tip of Harry's cock into his mouth and sucking, the suddenness of the move making Harry arch off the bed with a high pitched moan.
“Mmm,” Draco hummed around the tip, loving the way Harry's body quivered with pleasure. He bobbed his head, sucking Harry down before letting up again, teasing him to the edge and back again over and over.
“Draco, please,” Harry begged, trying to push Draco down further and pull him away at the same time. “Please,” he pleaded again, groaning in relief and disappointment when Draco pulled off. He sat back on his heels, tracing his fingers over the sensitive muscles on Harry's inner thighs.
“Do you want me, Harry?” Draco asked teasingly, smirking when Harry lifted his head and glared at Draco.
“Yes, dammit,” Harry bit out. “You little tease, come here.” He reached down and captured Draco's hands, pulling him upward until their lips met, but Draco pulled back far too soon for Harry's liking.
“I'm just getting naked, calm down,” Draco said, at Harry's groan of complaint. He stripped his trousers and pants off, taking his socks at the same time, then crawled back on top of Harry, his cock straining eagerly upward.
“Naked yes, I love it when you're naked,” Harry agreed, letting his hands roam all over Draco's body, pulling him down for a kiss as he pressed his hips up to gain friction against his cock.
“Accio lube,” Draco said, grinning like a loon when the lube leapt out of it's drawer and into his hand.
“You like that, do you?” Harry asked. Draco sat up, moving down so he had a good view of Harry's cock, which he slathered with lube, stroking him just enough to spread it around.
“Harry, I was basically without magic for five years. With no wand and no you, I couldn't even make a Lumos work.”
“No worries about that, anymore,” Harry said, clutching Draco's hips as his boyfriend moved into place over his slickened cock.
“No, no worries at all,” Draco answered, bracing himself on Harry's chest with one hand while the other held Harry's cock in place. Then he sat down, sinking on to Harry's cock and pulling a moan from both of them.
"Draco...you're so tight,” Harry gasped, rotating his hips as Draco settled himself, both hands pressed to Harry's chest as Harry's hands roamed his back and shoulders. Draco sighed in contentment before lifting his hips up, allowing Harry to slip almost all the way out before sliding back down again. No words were needed for this, just groping hands and straining bodies as Draco continued to take Harry in and out.
Harry helped him along, thrusting and twisting until he knew by Draco's gasps that he had hit the right spot. They found a rhythm, Harry nudging Draco's prostate and Draco clenching tighter around Harry's cock with every brush across it.
“Harry, Harry,” Draco chanted, when he felt is orgasm approaching. “Harry, harder,” he said, gasping when Harry did as he asked, pushing up harder and faster, his fingers gripping Draco's hips so tight he'd be left with round bruises to decorate his pale skin.
“Yeah, that's it,” Harry choked out, shuddering under Draco as he came, losing all his rhythm before slumping back on the bed, boneless and sated.
“No fair,” Draco whined, still rocking back and forth as his cock leaked all over Harry's stomach.
“S'okay,” Harry said, pulling Draco forward and off his softening cock and up, until Draco was sitting high enough on his chest so that he could reach back and thrust his fingers inside Draco's loose passage and rub his prostate. He gripped Draco's cock and stroked roughly, rubbing in time with his strokes until Draco came with a grunt, splattering his release all the way into Harry's hair, though most of it ended up on his lips, or dripping off his chin.
Draco leaned forward to kiss him, licking the come off his chin before thrusting his tongue in. Harry kissed him back without hesitation, though the pungent taste of Draco between them was rather disconcerting.
“That's totally disgusting and insanely hot,” Harry commented when they pulled back to breathe.
“I know,” Draco laughed. “I can't believe I did that.”
“It was unexpected, but I liked it,” Harry said, waggling his brows at Draco.
Draco threw his head back and laughed, before sliding to the side and laying beside him on the bed.
“Clean us up, would you?” he said, and Harry obeyed, murmuring 'scourgify.' The tingle was immediate and powerful.
“You have nothing to worry about,” Draco said, pulling the blanket over them and snuggling close. “Even when you murmur the spells, they're powerful.”
Harry lifted his head, dragging his fingers across Draco's cheek reverently. “As long as I have you with me.”
“I'll always be with you,” Draco said, leaning in to kiss Harry softly. They settled together, warm and comfortable. They slipped into a sated sleep, finally at peace.
*
They woke up the morning of Harry's birthday well rested and happy. Harry figured he might as well spend the morning in sated bliss, since it may be his last. The thought was sobering, so Harry brushed it aside. Instead, he focused on the things he had control over, the most important of which was Draco's morning erection, only inches from his hand. Harry smirked and ducked under the blankets to wake Draco up the best way he knew how.
It was almost lunch by the time they made it downstairs for breakfast. Remus merely gave their flushed faces and sappy smiles an amused look, while Ron snorted and rolled his eyes.
“Happy birthday, Harry,” Hermione said happily. “How are you feeling?”
“The way anyone who woke up in bed with Draco would feel,” Harry commented, wrapping his arms around Draco's waist from behind and kissing his neck. “Like the luckiest man alive.”
“Better you than me,” Ron said, earning a smack from Hermione.
“You're such a sap,” Draco said, but he turned his head and accepted a kiss. “Now leave me alone, I'm hungry,” he said, pushing Harry away with a laugh.
They tucked in heartily, the atmosphere at odds with the seriousness of their coming task, but the time for seriousness was fast approaching. They spent the afternoon chatting, then by three o'clock, the house had filled up with people wishing Harry a happy birthday. Every member of the Weasley family was there, and Harry felt a twinge of loss for Ginny and Bill. Their memory was one more reason why Harry needed to succeed today. Many order members were there also, and the large group filled the house with laughter and chattering voices. Everyone was nervous but they were doing a fine job covering it up, choosing to celebrate life before they went to battle.
Harry despised being the center of attention as much as he ever had but Draco, once he had become accustomed to the sheer volume of people, took to it like he was born to be in the spotlight. And perhaps he was, he was certainly made for Harry, and Harry supposed that someone had to make nice in public. Besides, Draco's love of the spotlight took some of the pressure off Harry, and he was able to sit back and enjoy his party more.
He loved watching Draco entertain, especially when he was talking about something he was passionate about. His gestures became more expressive and his voice took on an urgency that made Harry want to drag him to bed. Instead he just sat back and watched, his chest filling with an ache that he could only describe as love.
There was plenty of food, mostly provided by Molly Weasley and after they had eaten Harry was inundated by a plethora of gifts. Books, clothes, magical items, gag gifts...notably from Fred and George, and a card from Draco with an IOU for a gift to be opened in private. Harry kissed him, full on the lips and was unable to hold back from slipping him some tongue, to the delight of half the room and the disgust of the other. But they all ended up laughing, and Harry's cock twitched at the sight of Draco's fetching blush. If there was ever a reason to try his hardest to make it out of this alive, the anticipation of opening Draco's gift was more than enough.
Far too soon, the evening waned and as the sky darkened the mood of the crowd sobered. More Order members were arriving and people huddled together in smaller groups, talking quietly, mentally preparing for the coming fight. Just after ten o'clock, Dumbledore called everyone together, to speak a few words before they left.
"I want to thank you all for coming this evening,” he began. “Our task is as vital as it is dangerous, and some of you may be injured or killed in the pursuit of success. Walking bravely into the face of possible death is not something I wish to ask of any of you. But if I do not, Tom Riddle, Lord Voldemort himself, will surely take over the Ministry, and the entire wizarding world. From there he will spread his wrath and dominance over all of Britain before moving on to the rest of the world.
“He must be stopped. Prophecy declares that the only person who will be successful is a young man, barely of age. Fate is not fair when it chooses its champions, but Harry has acquitted himself exceptionally, and I have no doubts about his commitment to his task.
“A second, lesser known prophecy declares that Draco Malfoy, the White Dragon, will give Harry the power to accomplish this task. As we have discovered in the past few weeks, this prophecy is genuine, as their love for one another has formed a bond between them that has brought out a power in Harry that is unexpected and profound. We can only assume that the first prophecy is as genuine as the second and as such, the task of defeating Tom Riddle falls to him. I ask each and every one of you to do everything in your power to protect Harry and Draco, to keep them from being separated, and to do whatever necessary to bring them safely to the confrontation with Riddle.
“This is a lot to ask of you, a lot for you to trust in without certainty. Yet I must ask you to trust me, as you ever have and with luck we will all come out together on the other side.”
He paused and surveyed the solemn group, willing them the strength to face their tasks without fear.
“We will begin departing immediately. Each of you is aware of your designated apparition points. I urge you all to use stealth and awareness as your main weapons. Good luck.”
With a nod, he dismissed them, and the crowd broke up as people began wandering toward the door. Harry took the opportunity to pull Draco through the crowd, barricading them into their room, for a few short moments of peace before they faced their destiny.
*
September 1981
“Malfoy!” Lord Voldemort bellowed from the entrance hall of Malfoy Manor. Beside the tall imposing figure of the Dark Lord, a smaller man stood cowering in fear. He had been sure his information would please Voldemort, but it seemed to throw him into a furious panic instead.
“Lucius Malfoy!” he called again, his impatience obvious.
A door opened down the corridor, and a well groomed Lucius stepped into the foyer. “Yes my lord,” he said humbly, bowing his head in deference.
“I will speak with you, Malfoy,” Voldemort said, moving down the corridor to the study. “Now.”
“Yes my lord,” Malfoy agreed, looking disdainfully at the man cowering by the door.
“Matthews, you too,” Voldemort commanded, causing the man to jump. He shuffled forward, reluctantly following the other men.
Voldemort settled in the largest, plushest armchair in the room, waving Matthews to a smaller, much less comfortable seat while Lucius poured them drinks.
“How may I serve you, my lord?” Lucius said, once they were all settled with their glasses, Matthews toying nervously with his rather than drinking it.
“It's not what you can do for me, Lucius,” Voldemort said. “It's your son who interests me at the moment.”
Lucius' already pale face whitened. “My son,” he said apprehensively. “Is a mere child. What possible use can he be to you, my lord?”
“What use indeed,” Voldemort replied, half to himself. “Matthews here has overheard something of great interest to our cause. As you are aware, there is a prophecy regarding the so called 'Chosen One' who will have the power to defeat me. A ludicrous claim, but nonetheless, I am planning the strike even now.”
“Strike?” Lucius said. “You have determined the identity of the boy, then?”
“That is a detail you need not concern yourself with,” Voldemort replied. “A plan is in place for both brats, just to be safe. But this is not your concern.”
Voldemort took a sip of his whiskey, nodding to the still very nervous Matthews, who had yet to touch his drink. “Another prophecy has been brought to my attention, on that involves another. I have spent much time determining the validity of this prophecy and have come to an inescapable conclusion.”
Lucius swallowed, while Matthews seemed to become aware of the alcohol he was holding, and drank it down in one shot.
“And what conclusion is that, my lord?” Lucius' face was paler than seemed possible.
“That your son, very aptly named, I might add, is the boy this second prophecy refers to. The 'White Dragon,' if you will.” Voldemort took another sip, eyeing Lucius unblinkingly.
“I do not understand,” Lucius said, as the import of the Dark Lord's words began in sink in.
“The White Dragon it is said, will possess the power without which the Chosen One cannot defeat me. While I am confident I will be able to destroy the brat, I feel the need for further reassurance.”
Lucius put his glass down with a shaky hand. “You mean to...my son,” he was beginning to babble as panic set in.
“Oh Lucius, do relax. I have no intention of harming your boy, but I cannot allow him to...fall into the wrong hands, as it were.” Voldemort finished his drink, placing the glass on the table beside the chair. He rose, looking down at Lucius. “I am taking him.”
“You, what?” Lucius said, standing up as well. “Taking him? Where, why? There is no reason to take him from his mother, surely,” he pleaded, but Voldemort interrupted him.
“There is every reason. I must be certain the boy is raised with the proper attitude in regards to me.”
“I can assure you my lord, that he will be.”
Voldemort held up a hand to silence Lucius. “I intend to bond with him, at the time of his seventeenth birthday to ensure that whatever power he possesses will become mine. It matters not that the 'Chosen One' will be long dead. His power will be mine!” Voldemort was a powerful wizard indeed, and Lucius was sworn to obey him. But his only son, still a baby, was not a thing that was easy to give up.
“My lord, I am certain that we can come to a compromise,” Lucius said, but Voldemort would not hear it.
“Matthews, go get the boy,” Voldemort commanded. Matthews put his glass down and all but dashed out of the room, in search of Draco.
“My lord, please, he's just a baby. Surely there is something that will satisfy you, without resorting to such desperate measures.” Lucius spoke quickly, toying nervously with his glass.
“I doubt that very much, Lucius,” Voldemort replied. “The boy must be educated as I see fit, to ensure he is a proper servant, much like his father.”
“Yes, I understand my lord, and I would not attempt to dissuade you if you've determined it necessary.” Lucius was employing his best placating tone. “But if you were to leave him with us and oversee every part of his education, would that not be acceptable? We will keep him home for his schooling, teaching him what you see fit. He will understand what his place is from the start my lord, of this you can make certain.”
Voldemort eyed Lucius appraising. “I am unsure that you and Narcissa are up for the task, Lucius. But perhaps we can, make a deal, as they say.”
Lucius nodded eagerly. “Yes, my lord, I am certain that we can.”
“Very well, Lucius, you shall have your wish,” Voldemort declared, as Matthews reentered the room carrying a still sleeping Draco. Narcissa followed close behind, frantic.
“Lucius, what is going on?” she exclaimed, dashing across the room and gripping Lucius' arm.
“Calm down dear, it's going to be alright,” Lucius said, cupping her cheek.
“How can it be alright! This man says they're taking our baby away,” she wailed.
“I understand your distress, Narcissa,” Voldemort stepped forward, gaining Narcissa's attention for the first time.
“My lord,” she said quickly, attempting to recover her composure. “I apologize, I didn't realize...”
“Shh, Cissy,” Lucius said, drawing her attention away from Voldemort. “Lord Voldemort and I have come to an agreement. There is a prophecy that shows a future of great power for our son, and Lord Voldemort is merely taking steps to ensure that he reaches his potential.”
Voldemort smiled coldly at Lucius' deception. He did not lie, nor did he tell the truth. A proper Slytherin. Voldemort approved.
“A prophecy? About Draco?” Narcissa was confused and distracted, her attention mostly focused on the nervous man holding her son. Draco had begun to whine, and her mothering instinct began to rise.
“Yes, indeed,” Voldemort spoke up. “The prophecy claims that young Draco will have exceptional power, that he will grow to be a well respected and well feared wizard. You are most fortunate in him, you must be very proud.” Lucius was not the only Slytherin in the room, by half.
“But, you won't take him away, will you? He's just a baby, he needs his mother, I...I need,” Lucius cut her off, not unkindly. It wouldn't do to show too much weakness in front of the Dark Lord.
“Draco will remain with you, for the time being,” Voldemort declared. “In a few years, when he is ready to begin training in earnest, we will make the appropriate arrangements. He will not be kept from you, but for his own good he must be kept isolated from the world at large. Is that acceptable to you both?”
Narcissa opened her mouth, as if to object, but Lucius placed a heavy hand on her shoulder. She kept her silence, but didn't take her fearful eyes off her son, who was beginning to cry properly now.
“It is more than acceptable, my lord,” Lucius answered. “You do us much honour with your interest in Draco, your caring for him. We are most proud, and grateful.”
“Excellent,” Voldemort declared. “Give the boy to his mother, Matthews, before she faints.”
Matthews did as he was told, and Narcissa took the baby gingerly. Draco wrapped his chubby arms around her elegant neck, clinging as if his life depended on it, his whines becoming whimpers in the relative safety of his mother's arms.
“Thank you, my lord,” Narcissa managed, through the lump in her throat.
“Lucius, I will confer with you more about the boy's education, in private,” Voldemort said. He tilted his head Narcissa's way, but she knew a dismissal when she was given one, and she took the opportunity most gratefully, giving a curt bow to Voldemort before making her escape. The feeling of relief was hardly comforting; she knew well that there was more that she was not being told. She would not discover how much more until Draco's twelfth birthday, when Tom Riddle would come once again to claim him. He would not be denied a second time.
*
July 1997
They apparated into a copse just outside Godric's Hollow. Harry was grateful for the Apparition lessons Remus had given him; it was still not Harry's favorite method of travel, but it was easier when he was doing the apparating himself that when he went side along with someone else. Draco popped up a second after him, and immediately reached out to grip his hand.
Dumbledore was right beside him along with Ron, Hermione, Remus, Arthur and Charlie Weasley and Kingsley Shacklebolt. Small groups of disillusioned witches and wizards were filling up the woods all around the cemetery where, even now, Riddle's minions could be seen preparing for the arrival of their master. They were waiting for Riddle to arrive, before they re-illusioned themselves and went in to face him.
They didn't have long to wait. Before their eyes, the cemetery filled with Death Eaters in black robes. Shortly afterwards, Riddle apparated into the center of the circle, followed by two more Death Eaters who were restraining Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy. Draco's grip on Harry's hand tightened.
Dumbledore nodded at Harry and he nodded back and gripped his wand tightly. They had all agreed that using his wand would throw people off, as they would not be expecting him to cast non verbal spells, especially without a wand. “A bit of misdirection is always a good idea,” Dumbledore had said.
Suddenly, red sparks flew into the air from the tip of Dumbledore's wand, and chaos descended. From all angles, stunners flew and Death Eaters were knocked over and quickly incarcerated in magical ropes. Most of Riddle's men were taken out easily, but the ones who remained turned their wands outward and the battle picked up. Harry and Draco shot out of cover with the rest of their group, eyes open and wands drawn. The others covered them as Harry and Draco made for the center of the circle, where Riddle and the Malfoys were.
“Potter!” shrieked Riddle when he spotted them. “It's just like you to take up a whore like that,” he said, gesturing at Draco, who was half hidden behind Harry, still holding tight to his hand.
“If you mean Draco, you won't get a rise out of me with lies like that, Riddle,” Harry said. “You know as well as I do that he's an innocent.”
“Now that you've had your filthy hands all over him, I doubt that very much,” Riddle sneered. “It's no matter, he won't be able to save you, boy.”
Harry could feel the eyes of both elder Malfoys on him, he felt the weight of their hope in addition to that of every other person fighting with him. He could feel Draco's desperation as well, but instead of weighing him down, it inspired him. He would protect Draco with his life, he would not allow Riddle to touch him again.
Then Riddle hissed, and Harry knew what was coming. He was summoning the great snake, commanding it to attack Draco from behind, but Harry understood every word. He spun around and spotted the snake immediately. He felt the word on his lips, but before he could speak he felt the magic of Sectumsempra leap out of him, slicing the snake into slivers of twitching flesh.
“No!” He heard Riddle shriek as the snake died. Draco was prepared for any incoming spells and cast a protection spell before they could hit. His shield failed quickly under the onslaught, as spells were now coming from three angles. The men holding the Malfoys had bound their charges and were attacking. As the shield spell failed, Harry saw Dumbledore and Charlie Weasley coming to their aid, their hexes catching the two directly, taking them out of the battle.
But it was to late, the spell had fallen and Riddle sent one final, fatal spell in Harry's direction. The roar of “Avada Kedavra!” echoed across the space, freezing the assembled fighters in their tracks, as the green light over took and engulfed Harry.
*
The blackness was murky and cloying, but Harry pushed up, back into consciousness. He gasped from breath, coming around to the sight of Draco above him, sobbing and calling his name. He could feel the hum of protective magic around them, and hear Dumbledore engaging Riddle.
Riddle sounded smug, victorious, but Dumbledore did not give ground.
“Harry, can you hear me? Are you okay? Harry!” Draco's voice was high pitched, a perfect match for his wild eyes, and Harry couldn't help but smile.
“I'm fine Draco, I'll be okay,” he said, reaching out to brush away the tears that streaked Draco's cheeks.
“You died,” Draco said wildly. “I saw him kill you, you were dead.”
“Dying is over rated,” Harry choked out. “I thought I'd give it a pass.”
Draco looked at him in awe, then pulled him up and kissed him passionately, desperately. Harry kissed back, wrapping his arms around Draco and pulling him closer. They pulled apart after a moment, pressing their foreheads together. Harry could feel the relief emanating off Draco, and his chest filled with happiness knowing just how much this beautiful boy loved him.
“Now let's get this over with, shall we?” Harry said, pushing up and letting Draco help him to stand. He was a little shaky, having just died and all.
“Yes please,” Draco said. “I want to go home.”
They were surrounded, protected by more than just a Protego. Harry could hear Riddle's gloating and Dumbledore's even tone.
“That is what you believe, Tom,” he was saying. “Your victory is far from assured, in actuality, your actions have hastened your defeat.”
“Your delusions are grand, Dumbledore. You know nothing about me. Even if you should kill me today, I will return, while you fade and wither.”
“To the contrary,” Dumbledore replied. “I know about your depravity, the horrendous things you have done in the pursuit of immortality. But you have failed, Tom, it has all been for naught. We have discovered and destroyed all your Horcruxes, even as you yourself have destroyed the remnant of you that remained within Harry.”
Harry and Draco shared an incredulous look as gasps sounded around them.
“You lie,” Riddle raged. “It is impossible.”
“It is done,” Dumbledore was as calm as ever, showing nothing but what he wanted to show. “The diary was rendered useless when you used it to return. The ring, the locket, the diadem, the cup...all destroyed as well. You yourself have rid Harry of the Horcrux you made of him, albeit accidentally.”
Riddle's face was a mask of horror and rage, but Dumbledore was unmoved. “Your attempt at making another has failed, and there is nothing left to turn to. Give up now, Tom and perhaps you will live to see tomorrow.”
“Never!” Riddle, screamed. His face was changing, the handsome facade was slipping and revealing the beast underneath. “I will never surrender to you and your pathetic little army. None of you can kill me, not since I've killed your golden boy.”
“Actually,” Harry said, gripping Draco's hand and pushing past Dumbledore. The gasps of shocked rose up around them again, on both sides of the standoff, as everyone realized that somehow, Harry had again survived a killing curse. “I'm fine. Have a bit of a headache perhaps, but otherwise good.”
“Impossible!” Riddle shrieked. “I saw you fall.”
“You did indeed,” Dumbledore agreed, moving back to let Harry stand across from Riddle, Draco pressed into his back. “But as you can see, Harry is quite alive.”
“I don't know why you keep trying, Tom,” Harry said, taking a page out of Dumbledore's book and bringing Riddle down to his level. The man did not deserve to be acknowledged formally. “It'll take a better wizard than you to kill me.”
Draco snorted in amusement behind him, burying his face in Harry's shoulder. Harry couldn't help but smirk, which turned Riddle's rage up a notch, or two. Riddle's once handsome face was transformed once more, making him look less a man and more a creature of evil. It was chill inducing to see a glimpse of his true self.
“You can't kill me, you little pissant,” Riddle sneered, but instead of inducing fear, all it did was make Harry roll his eyes.
“Right, I'm done with this,” he said, lifting his wand at the same time Riddle did.
“I'll kill you for good this time,” Riddle said, yelling “Avada Kedavra!” at the same time as Harry sent an “Expelliarmus,” at him.
The result was dazzling. The spells collided in a shower of sparks, the shock wave reverberating the air around them. A hum built up, its pitch rising as the spells fought one another for dominance. Harry could feel the icy grasp of the death spell slide toward him. The power coming from it was tremendous, but Harry had Draco with him, a part of him, giving him the strength to push harder. He could feel the magic in the earth below them, in the air around them...all the power from the assembled witches and wizards slipping into him. Draco's magic was a balm that soothed the conflicting magics, bringing them together into a force that Harry could use.
With that power he pushed, forcing his spell down the connection, watching as it moved closer and closer to Riddle. As it approached, Riddle began to transform, his handsome visage melting away to reveal his true self, his snake-like face frozen in a rictus of terror. Harry pushed harder, and the killing curse that Riddle had cast was forced back on him.
His own hate was his undoing. With an unearthly shriek his body spasmed, disintegrating upon itself before exploding outward, falling toward the earth in a cloud of dust. Just then a wild wind came up, blowing the ash into the sky, scattering it across the cemetery and the forest beyond.
Silence descended as everyone tried to comprehend what had just happened. That Riddle was gone, that he wasn't coming back...it was suddenly real to Harry in a way he'd never imagined. While his scar hadn't bothered him more than sporadically since he met Draco, it now felt almost as if it had never been there. He'd always known what he'd wanted to do when it was done and he still did, but what he didn't know was how to get through this moment. It seemed however, that Draco knew.
Harry felt Draco drop his hand before gripping his shoulders and turning him around. He was still in a daze, but when Draco's lips touched his, he came alive again; brighter, stronger and better than ever before. He kissed back, sliding his tongue against Draco's and with no regard for the dozens of people watching.
It was over.
“That was fascinating,” Dumbledore broke the silence at last, breaking apart the kiss as well. “But we have a lot of work to do still. Celebrations will commence when every task is completed.”
There was a chorus of acknowledgement before everyone began moving again. The Aurors among them began organising and identifying the downed Death Eaters, there were a very few left who had not been captured, and no time was wasted in apprehending them. Soon Ministry officials began arriving, Aurors who were not part of the Order and, before long, the Minister himself.
Draco had pulled Harry away from the bustle, followed by Ron and Hermione, the latter having wrapped Harry up in an enormous hug as soon as they had gained some semblance of privacy.
“You are amazing,” she whispered in his ear, before pulling back and kissing him, full on the lips.
“Oi!” Ron exclaimed, but Draco just laughed. Until she planted one on him as well, giving him a hug and thanking him for being there for Harry.
“Congratulations, mate,” Ron said, shaking his hand, before turning to Draco and offering him a handshake as well.
“Thank you, Draco,” he said seriously, pulling Draco forward into a one armed hug. “Thank you for helping us out, for helping Harry. But most of all, thank you for making him happy. He deserves it.”
“Wow, Ron,” Harry said.
“That was...unexpected,” Draco added, somewhat uncomfortably.
“Yeah, well,” Ron said, blushing. “I think I'll go help with the clean up.”
Harry and Draco stayed where they were, accepting thanks and congratulations from passers by until Dumbledore made his way over to them, followed by Lucius and Narcissa who were awake and apparently none the worse for wear.
“Draco, my love,” Narcissa called, running the last few steps and sweeping Draco into her arms. He returned the hug, clinging back, unable to keep the tears from springing to his eyes at seeing her again.
“I missed you so much,” she said, pulling back and cupping his cheeks tenderly. “I wanted to come to you this week, but Riddle sent Bella to watch me. I'm so very sorry I...that we...”
“It's alright, Mother,” Draco replied, smiling weakly at her. “It worked out for the best, really.”
She hugged him again, tighter, if such a thing were possible, before Lucius admonished. “Let the boy breathe, Narcissa.”
“Yes, I'm sorry,” she pulled back, wiping a few stray tears but leaning forward to kiss Draco on the forehead.
“Draco,” Lucius said formally, nodding to his son.
“Father,” Draco replied, saying nothing more. They stood in awkward silence for a moment before Lucius cleared his throat.
“I do hope...previous events will not keep you from coming home, now that the danger to you has passed,” he smiled wryly before adding. “If we are allowed to return home, that is.”
“That Narcissa will be freed is certain,” Dumbledore said. “There will be consequences for yourself, but they will be mitigated by the information you provided us.”
“Thank you,” Lucius said. “I will accept the consequences, and I will rest easy in the knowledge that Draco and Narcissa will be safe together.”
“We will be, if Mother agrees to come back to the house with us,” Draco said, meeting his father in the eye with a steely gaze.
“You are not intending to join her at the Manor?”
“No,” Draco said firmly. “My place is with Harry.”
“It's okay Draco, you can go home with her, if you want,” Harry said, fidgeting in what Draco had come to learn was nervousness.
“How many times, Harry?” Draco said simply, turning to meet his lover's eyes.
“One more?” Harry replied.
Draco rolled his eyes, but took Harry's hand and entwined their fingers. “I'm not leaving you. Ever. Get it through your thick skull.”
Harry beamed at Draco, who smirked back. “Okay.”
Draco turned to his parents once more. “I'm sorry Mother, but I can't come back with you. If you would like to be with us, that can be arranged, and if not we will come to visit, but you are my past, and Harry is my future.”
“I understand,” Narcissa said, hugging him again. “You are so grown up now.”
“I believe it's time for us to depart,” Dumbledore interjected. “Unless you wish to have an interview with the Minister, Harry.”
Harry scrunched up his face in disgust. “No!” he declared. “Let's go home.”
“I will inform him that you will owl him at your leisure,” Dumbledore said, twinkling down at them. “And now, Mr. And Mrs. Malfoy. There are formalities that must be observed.”
“Indeed,” Lucius said, nodding at the four youngsters before turning away.
“I will see you soon, Draco,” Narcissa said, dropping another kiss oh his forehead. “I'm happy you've found your place,” she whispered before pulling back and following her husband.
Draco let out a sigh, then said, “Take me home, Harry.”
Harry did just that.
*
End
Please return to LJ and leave a comment
The night before Harry's birthday, they had a quiet dinner, with just the four of them. There were plans for a birthday luncheon the next day, before they headed out as a group to face off with Tom Riddle. Harry was excited and terrified, and exceptionally jumpy. The next day was his seventeenth birthday, and he wasn't convinced he would live to see his eighteenth.
He was pacing the room, while Draco watched placidly from the bed. He'd tried to lie down earlier, but his mind was racing and his body too full of nervous energy to rest. There was simply too much riding on his actions the next day and he could admit even to himself that he was over thinking it.
“You know, there's nothing you could have trained at that would leave you better prepared,” Draco commented.
“I know.”
“And we've researched absolutely everything we could to make sure it'll work,” he added.
“I know.”
“And you're driving me crazy with all this pacing,” Draco stood up from the bed, and began to chase Harry down. It didn't take long as the room was not very big.
“Draco, let me go,” Harry said, glaring at his boyfriend as Draco cornered him between the dresser and the wall.
“You're just going to exhaust yourself, and then you won't be at your best tomorrow,” Draco said, moving close and running his hands up Harry's chest, under his shirt. Harry shivered.
“I know, but I just can't relax,” Harry admitted, sighing.
“Then perhaps I can think of a way to relax you,” Draco replied, pressing his body against Harry's, his intent unmistakeable.
“I'm not sure I'm in the mood,” Harry tried to slide out from between Draco's arms, but Draco was not letting go that easily.
“Since when are you not in the mood?” Draco asked sceptically. “Come to bed, I'm sure I can do something to change your mood.”
“Alright,” Harry agreed at last. “But I make no promises.”
“Fair enough,” Draco said, tugging Harry's t-shirt over his head, before doing the same with his own. He manoeuvred Harry backwards until he could go no further, then pushed him down onto his back.
“Scoot up,” he commanded, and Harry obeyed. Draco climbed on top of him, pressing his naked chest against Harry's as he brought their lips together, kissing him softly before sliding his tongue into Harry's willing mouth.
They tugged each others clothes off as Draco kissed Harry until he was breathless. He shifted to the side, sucking his way down Harry's neck, not leaving any marks until he reached his collarbone, where he sucked deeply, bringing the blood to the skin deliberately. Then he continued downwards, leaving a trail of wet skin and love bites as he went. He spent particular time on Harry's sensitive hipbones, avoiding his cock which was now hard despite Harry's previous protests.
“Draco, that's wonderful,” Harry sighed, brushing his hands over Draco's hair, but not urging him further. He let Draco do what he wanted to, no pressure. But Draco was not in the mood to waste any time.
“Lift your hips,” he said after he had unfastened Harry's jeans, using the tilt of Harry's hips to pull them down all the way. He stripped Harry naked, taking everything off in one long pull. Leaning in, he licked his way around Harry's navel, torturing him with feather light licks on his hipbones again before taking the tip of Harry's cock into his mouth and sucking, the suddenness of the move making Harry arch off the bed with a high pitched moan.
“Mmm,” Draco hummed around the tip, loving the way Harry's body quivered with pleasure. He bobbed his head, sucking Harry down before letting up again, teasing him to the edge and back again over and over.
“Draco, please,” Harry begged, trying to push Draco down further and pull him away at the same time. “Please,” he pleaded again, groaning in relief and disappointment when Draco pulled off. He sat back on his heels, tracing his fingers over the sensitive muscles on Harry's inner thighs.
“Do you want me, Harry?” Draco asked teasingly, smirking when Harry lifted his head and glared at Draco.
“Yes, dammit,” Harry bit out. “You little tease, come here.” He reached down and captured Draco's hands, pulling him upward until their lips met, but Draco pulled back far too soon for Harry's liking.
“I'm just getting naked, calm down,” Draco said, at Harry's groan of complaint. He stripped his trousers and pants off, taking his socks at the same time, then crawled back on top of Harry, his cock straining eagerly upward.
“Naked yes, I love it when you're naked,” Harry agreed, letting his hands roam all over Draco's body, pulling him down for a kiss as he pressed his hips up to gain friction against his cock.
“Accio lube,” Draco said, grinning like a loon when the lube leapt out of it's drawer and into his hand.
“You like that, do you?” Harry asked. Draco sat up, moving down so he had a good view of Harry's cock, which he slathered with lube, stroking him just enough to spread it around.
“Harry, I was basically without magic for five years. With no wand and no you, I couldn't even make a Lumos work.”
“No worries about that, anymore,” Harry said, clutching Draco's hips as his boyfriend moved into place over his slickened cock.
“No, no worries at all,” Draco answered, bracing himself on Harry's chest with one hand while the other held Harry's cock in place. Then he sat down, sinking on to Harry's cock and pulling a moan from both of them.
"Draco...you're so tight,” Harry gasped, rotating his hips as Draco settled himself, both hands pressed to Harry's chest as Harry's hands roamed his back and shoulders. Draco sighed in contentment before lifting his hips up, allowing Harry to slip almost all the way out before sliding back down again. No words were needed for this, just groping hands and straining bodies as Draco continued to take Harry in and out.
Harry helped him along, thrusting and twisting until he knew by Draco's gasps that he had hit the right spot. They found a rhythm, Harry nudging Draco's prostate and Draco clenching tighter around Harry's cock with every brush across it.
“Harry, Harry,” Draco chanted, when he felt is orgasm approaching. “Harry, harder,” he said, gasping when Harry did as he asked, pushing up harder and faster, his fingers gripping Draco's hips so tight he'd be left with round bruises to decorate his pale skin.
“Yeah, that's it,” Harry choked out, shuddering under Draco as he came, losing all his rhythm before slumping back on the bed, boneless and sated.
“No fair,” Draco whined, still rocking back and forth as his cock leaked all over Harry's stomach.
“S'okay,” Harry said, pulling Draco forward and off his softening cock and up, until Draco was sitting high enough on his chest so that he could reach back and thrust his fingers inside Draco's loose passage and rub his prostate. He gripped Draco's cock and stroked roughly, rubbing in time with his strokes until Draco came with a grunt, splattering his release all the way into Harry's hair, though most of it ended up on his lips, or dripping off his chin.
Draco leaned forward to kiss him, licking the come off his chin before thrusting his tongue in. Harry kissed him back without hesitation, though the pungent taste of Draco between them was rather disconcerting.
“That's totally disgusting and insanely hot,” Harry commented when they pulled back to breathe.
“I know,” Draco laughed. “I can't believe I did that.”
“It was unexpected, but I liked it,” Harry said, waggling his brows at Draco.
Draco threw his head back and laughed, before sliding to the side and laying beside him on the bed.
“Clean us up, would you?” he said, and Harry obeyed, murmuring 'scourgify.' The tingle was immediate and powerful.
“You have nothing to worry about,” Draco said, pulling the blanket over them and snuggling close. “Even when you murmur the spells, they're powerful.”
Harry lifted his head, dragging his fingers across Draco's cheek reverently. “As long as I have you with me.”
“I'll always be with you,” Draco said, leaning in to kiss Harry softly. They settled together, warm and comfortable. They slipped into a sated sleep, finally at peace.
They woke up the morning of Harry's birthday well rested and happy. Harry figured he might as well spend the morning in sated bliss, since it may be his last. The thought was sobering, so Harry brushed it aside. Instead, he focused on the things he had control over, the most important of which was Draco's morning erection, only inches from his hand. Harry smirked and ducked under the blankets to wake Draco up the best way he knew how.
It was almost lunch by the time they made it downstairs for breakfast. Remus merely gave their flushed faces and sappy smiles an amused look, while Ron snorted and rolled his eyes.
“Happy birthday, Harry,” Hermione said happily. “How are you feeling?”
“The way anyone who woke up in bed with Draco would feel,” Harry commented, wrapping his arms around Draco's waist from behind and kissing his neck. “Like the luckiest man alive.”
“Better you than me,” Ron said, earning a smack from Hermione.
“You're such a sap,” Draco said, but he turned his head and accepted a kiss. “Now leave me alone, I'm hungry,” he said, pushing Harry away with a laugh.
They tucked in heartily, the atmosphere at odds with the seriousness of their coming task, but the time for seriousness was fast approaching. They spent the afternoon chatting, then by three o'clock, the house had filled up with people wishing Harry a happy birthday. Every member of the Weasley family was there, and Harry felt a twinge of loss for Ginny and Bill. Their memory was one more reason why Harry needed to succeed today. Many order members were there also, and the large group filled the house with laughter and chattering voices. Everyone was nervous but they were doing a fine job covering it up, choosing to celebrate life before they went to battle.
Harry despised being the center of attention as much as he ever had but Draco, once he had become accustomed to the sheer volume of people, took to it like he was born to be in the spotlight. And perhaps he was, he was certainly made for Harry, and Harry supposed that someone had to make nice in public. Besides, Draco's love of the spotlight took some of the pressure off Harry, and he was able to sit back and enjoy his party more.
He loved watching Draco entertain, especially when he was talking about something he was passionate about. His gestures became more expressive and his voice took on an urgency that made Harry want to drag him to bed. Instead he just sat back and watched, his chest filling with an ache that he could only describe as love.
There was plenty of food, mostly provided by Molly Weasley and after they had eaten Harry was inundated by a plethora of gifts. Books, clothes, magical items, gag gifts...notably from Fred and George, and a card from Draco with an IOU for a gift to be opened in private. Harry kissed him, full on the lips and was unable to hold back from slipping him some tongue, to the delight of half the room and the disgust of the other. But they all ended up laughing, and Harry's cock twitched at the sight of Draco's fetching blush. If there was ever a reason to try his hardest to make it out of this alive, the anticipation of opening Draco's gift was more than enough.
Far too soon, the evening waned and as the sky darkened the mood of the crowd sobered. More Order members were arriving and people huddled together in smaller groups, talking quietly, mentally preparing for the coming fight. Just after ten o'clock, Dumbledore called everyone together, to speak a few words before they left.
"I want to thank you all for coming this evening,” he began. “Our task is as vital as it is dangerous, and some of you may be injured or killed in the pursuit of success. Walking bravely into the face of possible death is not something I wish to ask of any of you. But if I do not, Tom Riddle, Lord Voldemort himself, will surely take over the Ministry, and the entire wizarding world. From there he will spread his wrath and dominance over all of Britain before moving on to the rest of the world.
“He must be stopped. Prophecy declares that the only person who will be successful is a young man, barely of age. Fate is not fair when it chooses its champions, but Harry has acquitted himself exceptionally, and I have no doubts about his commitment to his task.
“A second, lesser known prophecy declares that Draco Malfoy, the White Dragon, will give Harry the power to accomplish this task. As we have discovered in the past few weeks, this prophecy is genuine, as their love for one another has formed a bond between them that has brought out a power in Harry that is unexpected and profound. We can only assume that the first prophecy is as genuine as the second and as such, the task of defeating Tom Riddle falls to him. I ask each and every one of you to do everything in your power to protect Harry and Draco, to keep them from being separated, and to do whatever necessary to bring them safely to the confrontation with Riddle.
“This is a lot to ask of you, a lot for you to trust in without certainty. Yet I must ask you to trust me, as you ever have and with luck we will all come out together on the other side.”
He paused and surveyed the solemn group, willing them the strength to face their tasks without fear.
“We will begin departing immediately. Each of you is aware of your designated apparition points. I urge you all to use stealth and awareness as your main weapons. Good luck.”
With a nod, he dismissed them, and the crowd broke up as people began wandering toward the door. Harry took the opportunity to pull Draco through the crowd, barricading them into their room, for a few short moments of peace before they faced their destiny.
September 1981
“Malfoy!” Lord Voldemort bellowed from the entrance hall of Malfoy Manor. Beside the tall imposing figure of the Dark Lord, a smaller man stood cowering in fear. He had been sure his information would please Voldemort, but it seemed to throw him into a furious panic instead.
“Lucius Malfoy!” he called again, his impatience obvious.
A door opened down the corridor, and a well groomed Lucius stepped into the foyer. “Yes my lord,” he said humbly, bowing his head in deference.
“I will speak with you, Malfoy,” Voldemort said, moving down the corridor to the study. “Now.”
“Yes my lord,” Malfoy agreed, looking disdainfully at the man cowering by the door.
“Matthews, you too,” Voldemort commanded, causing the man to jump. He shuffled forward, reluctantly following the other men.
Voldemort settled in the largest, plushest armchair in the room, waving Matthews to a smaller, much less comfortable seat while Lucius poured them drinks.
“How may I serve you, my lord?” Lucius said, once they were all settled with their glasses, Matthews toying nervously with his rather than drinking it.
“It's not what you can do for me, Lucius,” Voldemort said. “It's your son who interests me at the moment.”
Lucius' already pale face whitened. “My son,” he said apprehensively. “Is a mere child. What possible use can he be to you, my lord?”
“What use indeed,” Voldemort replied, half to himself. “Matthews here has overheard something of great interest to our cause. As you are aware, there is a prophecy regarding the so called 'Chosen One' who will have the power to defeat me. A ludicrous claim, but nonetheless, I am planning the strike even now.”
“Strike?” Lucius said. “You have determined the identity of the boy, then?”
“That is a detail you need not concern yourself with,” Voldemort replied. “A plan is in place for both brats, just to be safe. But this is not your concern.”
Voldemort took a sip of his whiskey, nodding to the still very nervous Matthews, who had yet to touch his drink. “Another prophecy has been brought to my attention, on that involves another. I have spent much time determining the validity of this prophecy and have come to an inescapable conclusion.”
Lucius swallowed, while Matthews seemed to become aware of the alcohol he was holding, and drank it down in one shot.
“And what conclusion is that, my lord?” Lucius' face was paler than seemed possible.
“That your son, very aptly named, I might add, is the boy this second prophecy refers to. The 'White Dragon,' if you will.” Voldemort took another sip, eyeing Lucius unblinkingly.
“I do not understand,” Lucius said, as the import of the Dark Lord's words began in sink in.
“The White Dragon it is said, will possess the power without which the Chosen One cannot defeat me. While I am confident I will be able to destroy the brat, I feel the need for further reassurance.”
Lucius put his glass down with a shaky hand. “You mean to...my son,” he was beginning to babble as panic set in.
“Oh Lucius, do relax. I have no intention of harming your boy, but I cannot allow him to...fall into the wrong hands, as it were.” Voldemort finished his drink, placing the glass on the table beside the chair. He rose, looking down at Lucius. “I am taking him.”
“You, what?” Lucius said, standing up as well. “Taking him? Where, why? There is no reason to take him from his mother, surely,” he pleaded, but Voldemort interrupted him.
“There is every reason. I must be certain the boy is raised with the proper attitude in regards to me.”
“I can assure you my lord, that he will be.”
Voldemort held up a hand to silence Lucius. “I intend to bond with him, at the time of his seventeenth birthday to ensure that whatever power he possesses will become mine. It matters not that the 'Chosen One' will be long dead. His power will be mine!” Voldemort was a powerful wizard indeed, and Lucius was sworn to obey him. But his only son, still a baby, was not a thing that was easy to give up.
“My lord, I am certain that we can come to a compromise,” Lucius said, but Voldemort would not hear it.
“Matthews, go get the boy,” Voldemort commanded. Matthews put his glass down and all but dashed out of the room, in search of Draco.
“My lord, please, he's just a baby. Surely there is something that will satisfy you, without resorting to such desperate measures.” Lucius spoke quickly, toying nervously with his glass.
“I doubt that very much, Lucius,” Voldemort replied. “The boy must be educated as I see fit, to ensure he is a proper servant, much like his father.”
“Yes, I understand my lord, and I would not attempt to dissuade you if you've determined it necessary.” Lucius was employing his best placating tone. “But if you were to leave him with us and oversee every part of his education, would that not be acceptable? We will keep him home for his schooling, teaching him what you see fit. He will understand what his place is from the start my lord, of this you can make certain.”
Voldemort eyed Lucius appraising. “I am unsure that you and Narcissa are up for the task, Lucius. But perhaps we can, make a deal, as they say.”
Lucius nodded eagerly. “Yes, my lord, I am certain that we can.”
“Very well, Lucius, you shall have your wish,” Voldemort declared, as Matthews reentered the room carrying a still sleeping Draco. Narcissa followed close behind, frantic.
“Lucius, what is going on?” she exclaimed, dashing across the room and gripping Lucius' arm.
“Calm down dear, it's going to be alright,” Lucius said, cupping her cheek.
“How can it be alright! This man says they're taking our baby away,” she wailed.
“I understand your distress, Narcissa,” Voldemort stepped forward, gaining Narcissa's attention for the first time.
“My lord,” she said quickly, attempting to recover her composure. “I apologize, I didn't realize...”
“Shh, Cissy,” Lucius said, drawing her attention away from Voldemort. “Lord Voldemort and I have come to an agreement. There is a prophecy that shows a future of great power for our son, and Lord Voldemort is merely taking steps to ensure that he reaches his potential.”
Voldemort smiled coldly at Lucius' deception. He did not lie, nor did he tell the truth. A proper Slytherin. Voldemort approved.
“A prophecy? About Draco?” Narcissa was confused and distracted, her attention mostly focused on the nervous man holding her son. Draco had begun to whine, and her mothering instinct began to rise.
“Yes, indeed,” Voldemort spoke up. “The prophecy claims that young Draco will have exceptional power, that he will grow to be a well respected and well feared wizard. You are most fortunate in him, you must be very proud.” Lucius was not the only Slytherin in the room, by half.
“But, you won't take him away, will you? He's just a baby, he needs his mother, I...I need,” Lucius cut her off, not unkindly. It wouldn't do to show too much weakness in front of the Dark Lord.
“Draco will remain with you, for the time being,” Voldemort declared. “In a few years, when he is ready to begin training in earnest, we will make the appropriate arrangements. He will not be kept from you, but for his own good he must be kept isolated from the world at large. Is that acceptable to you both?”
Narcissa opened her mouth, as if to object, but Lucius placed a heavy hand on her shoulder. She kept her silence, but didn't take her fearful eyes off her son, who was beginning to cry properly now.
“It is more than acceptable, my lord,” Lucius answered. “You do us much honour with your interest in Draco, your caring for him. We are most proud, and grateful.”
“Excellent,” Voldemort declared. “Give the boy to his mother, Matthews, before she faints.”
Matthews did as he was told, and Narcissa took the baby gingerly. Draco wrapped his chubby arms around her elegant neck, clinging as if his life depended on it, his whines becoming whimpers in the relative safety of his mother's arms.
“Thank you, my lord,” Narcissa managed, through the lump in her throat.
“Lucius, I will confer with you more about the boy's education, in private,” Voldemort said. He tilted his head Narcissa's way, but she knew a dismissal when she was given one, and she took the opportunity most gratefully, giving a curt bow to Voldemort before making her escape. The feeling of relief was hardly comforting; she knew well that there was more that she was not being told. She would not discover how much more until Draco's twelfth birthday, when Tom Riddle would come once again to claim him. He would not be denied a second time.
July 1997
They apparated into a copse just outside Godric's Hollow. Harry was grateful for the Apparition lessons Remus had given him; it was still not Harry's favorite method of travel, but it was easier when he was doing the apparating himself that when he went side along with someone else. Draco popped up a second after him, and immediately reached out to grip his hand.
Dumbledore was right beside him along with Ron, Hermione, Remus, Arthur and Charlie Weasley and Kingsley Shacklebolt. Small groups of disillusioned witches and wizards were filling up the woods all around the cemetery where, even now, Riddle's minions could be seen preparing for the arrival of their master. They were waiting for Riddle to arrive, before they re-illusioned themselves and went in to face him.
They didn't have long to wait. Before their eyes, the cemetery filled with Death Eaters in black robes. Shortly afterwards, Riddle apparated into the center of the circle, followed by two more Death Eaters who were restraining Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy. Draco's grip on Harry's hand tightened.
Dumbledore nodded at Harry and he nodded back and gripped his wand tightly. They had all agreed that using his wand would throw people off, as they would not be expecting him to cast non verbal spells, especially without a wand. “A bit of misdirection is always a good idea,” Dumbledore had said.
Suddenly, red sparks flew into the air from the tip of Dumbledore's wand, and chaos descended. From all angles, stunners flew and Death Eaters were knocked over and quickly incarcerated in magical ropes. Most of Riddle's men were taken out easily, but the ones who remained turned their wands outward and the battle picked up. Harry and Draco shot out of cover with the rest of their group, eyes open and wands drawn. The others covered them as Harry and Draco made for the center of the circle, where Riddle and the Malfoys were.
“Potter!” shrieked Riddle when he spotted them. “It's just like you to take up a whore like that,” he said, gesturing at Draco, who was half hidden behind Harry, still holding tight to his hand.
“If you mean Draco, you won't get a rise out of me with lies like that, Riddle,” Harry said. “You know as well as I do that he's an innocent.”
“Now that you've had your filthy hands all over him, I doubt that very much,” Riddle sneered. “It's no matter, he won't be able to save you, boy.”
Harry could feel the eyes of both elder Malfoys on him, he felt the weight of their hope in addition to that of every other person fighting with him. He could feel Draco's desperation as well, but instead of weighing him down, it inspired him. He would protect Draco with his life, he would not allow Riddle to touch him again.
Then Riddle hissed, and Harry knew what was coming. He was summoning the great snake, commanding it to attack Draco from behind, but Harry understood every word. He spun around and spotted the snake immediately. He felt the word on his lips, but before he could speak he felt the magic of Sectumsempra leap out of him, slicing the snake into slivers of twitching flesh.
“No!” He heard Riddle shriek as the snake died. Draco was prepared for any incoming spells and cast a protection spell before they could hit. His shield failed quickly under the onslaught, as spells were now coming from three angles. The men holding the Malfoys had bound their charges and were attacking. As the shield spell failed, Harry saw Dumbledore and Charlie Weasley coming to their aid, their hexes catching the two directly, taking them out of the battle.
But it was to late, the spell had fallen and Riddle sent one final, fatal spell in Harry's direction. The roar of “Avada Kedavra!” echoed across the space, freezing the assembled fighters in their tracks, as the green light over took and engulfed Harry.
The blackness was murky and cloying, but Harry pushed up, back into consciousness. He gasped from breath, coming around to the sight of Draco above him, sobbing and calling his name. He could feel the hum of protective magic around them, and hear Dumbledore engaging Riddle.
Riddle sounded smug, victorious, but Dumbledore did not give ground.
“Harry, can you hear me? Are you okay? Harry!” Draco's voice was high pitched, a perfect match for his wild eyes, and Harry couldn't help but smile.
“I'm fine Draco, I'll be okay,” he said, reaching out to brush away the tears that streaked Draco's cheeks.
“You died,” Draco said wildly. “I saw him kill you, you were dead.”
“Dying is over rated,” Harry choked out. “I thought I'd give it a pass.”
Draco looked at him in awe, then pulled him up and kissed him passionately, desperately. Harry kissed back, wrapping his arms around Draco and pulling him closer. They pulled apart after a moment, pressing their foreheads together. Harry could feel the relief emanating off Draco, and his chest filled with happiness knowing just how much this beautiful boy loved him.
“Now let's get this over with, shall we?” Harry said, pushing up and letting Draco help him to stand. He was a little shaky, having just died and all.
“Yes please,” Draco said. “I want to go home.”
They were surrounded, protected by more than just a Protego. Harry could hear Riddle's gloating and Dumbledore's even tone.
“That is what you believe, Tom,” he was saying. “Your victory is far from assured, in actuality, your actions have hastened your defeat.”
“Your delusions are grand, Dumbledore. You know nothing about me. Even if you should kill me today, I will return, while you fade and wither.”
“To the contrary,” Dumbledore replied. “I know about your depravity, the horrendous things you have done in the pursuit of immortality. But you have failed, Tom, it has all been for naught. We have discovered and destroyed all your Horcruxes, even as you yourself have destroyed the remnant of you that remained within Harry.”
Harry and Draco shared an incredulous look as gasps sounded around them.
“You lie,” Riddle raged. “It is impossible.”
“It is done,” Dumbledore was as calm as ever, showing nothing but what he wanted to show. “The diary was rendered useless when you used it to return. The ring, the locket, the diadem, the cup...all destroyed as well. You yourself have rid Harry of the Horcrux you made of him, albeit accidentally.”
Riddle's face was a mask of horror and rage, but Dumbledore was unmoved. “Your attempt at making another has failed, and there is nothing left to turn to. Give up now, Tom and perhaps you will live to see tomorrow.”
“Never!” Riddle, screamed. His face was changing, the handsome facade was slipping and revealing the beast underneath. “I will never surrender to you and your pathetic little army. None of you can kill me, not since I've killed your golden boy.”
“Actually,” Harry said, gripping Draco's hand and pushing past Dumbledore. The gasps of shocked rose up around them again, on both sides of the standoff, as everyone realized that somehow, Harry had again survived a killing curse. “I'm fine. Have a bit of a headache perhaps, but otherwise good.”
“Impossible!” Riddle shrieked. “I saw you fall.”
“You did indeed,” Dumbledore agreed, moving back to let Harry stand across from Riddle, Draco pressed into his back. “But as you can see, Harry is quite alive.”
“I don't know why you keep trying, Tom,” Harry said, taking a page out of Dumbledore's book and bringing Riddle down to his level. The man did not deserve to be acknowledged formally. “It'll take a better wizard than you to kill me.”
Draco snorted in amusement behind him, burying his face in Harry's shoulder. Harry couldn't help but smirk, which turned Riddle's rage up a notch, or two. Riddle's once handsome face was transformed once more, making him look less a man and more a creature of evil. It was chill inducing to see a glimpse of his true self.
“You can't kill me, you little pissant,” Riddle sneered, but instead of inducing fear, all it did was make Harry roll his eyes.
“Right, I'm done with this,” he said, lifting his wand at the same time Riddle did.
“I'll kill you for good this time,” Riddle said, yelling “Avada Kedavra!” at the same time as Harry sent an “Expelliarmus,” at him.
The result was dazzling. The spells collided in a shower of sparks, the shock wave reverberating the air around them. A hum built up, its pitch rising as the spells fought one another for dominance. Harry could feel the icy grasp of the death spell slide toward him. The power coming from it was tremendous, but Harry had Draco with him, a part of him, giving him the strength to push harder. He could feel the magic in the earth below them, in the air around them...all the power from the assembled witches and wizards slipping into him. Draco's magic was a balm that soothed the conflicting magics, bringing them together into a force that Harry could use.
With that power he pushed, forcing his spell down the connection, watching as it moved closer and closer to Riddle. As it approached, Riddle began to transform, his handsome visage melting away to reveal his true self, his snake-like face frozen in a rictus of terror. Harry pushed harder, and the killing curse that Riddle had cast was forced back on him.
His own hate was his undoing. With an unearthly shriek his body spasmed, disintegrating upon itself before exploding outward, falling toward the earth in a cloud of dust. Just then a wild wind came up, blowing the ash into the sky, scattering it across the cemetery and the forest beyond.
Silence descended as everyone tried to comprehend what had just happened. That Riddle was gone, that he wasn't coming back...it was suddenly real to Harry in a way he'd never imagined. While his scar hadn't bothered him more than sporadically since he met Draco, it now felt almost as if it had never been there. He'd always known what he'd wanted to do when it was done and he still did, but what he didn't know was how to get through this moment. It seemed however, that Draco knew.
Harry felt Draco drop his hand before gripping his shoulders and turning him around. He was still in a daze, but when Draco's lips touched his, he came alive again; brighter, stronger and better than ever before. He kissed back, sliding his tongue against Draco's and with no regard for the dozens of people watching.
It was over.
“That was fascinating,” Dumbledore broke the silence at last, breaking apart the kiss as well. “But we have a lot of work to do still. Celebrations will commence when every task is completed.”
There was a chorus of acknowledgement before everyone began moving again. The Aurors among them began organising and identifying the downed Death Eaters, there were a very few left who had not been captured, and no time was wasted in apprehending them. Soon Ministry officials began arriving, Aurors who were not part of the Order and, before long, the Minister himself.
Draco had pulled Harry away from the bustle, followed by Ron and Hermione, the latter having wrapped Harry up in an enormous hug as soon as they had gained some semblance of privacy.
“You are amazing,” she whispered in his ear, before pulling back and kissing him, full on the lips.
“Oi!” Ron exclaimed, but Draco just laughed. Until she planted one on him as well, giving him a hug and thanking him for being there for Harry.
“Congratulations, mate,” Ron said, shaking his hand, before turning to Draco and offering him a handshake as well.
“Thank you, Draco,” he said seriously, pulling Draco forward into a one armed hug. “Thank you for helping us out, for helping Harry. But most of all, thank you for making him happy. He deserves it.”
“Wow, Ron,” Harry said.
“That was...unexpected,” Draco added, somewhat uncomfortably.
“Yeah, well,” Ron said, blushing. “I think I'll go help with the clean up.”
Harry and Draco stayed where they were, accepting thanks and congratulations from passers by until Dumbledore made his way over to them, followed by Lucius and Narcissa who were awake and apparently none the worse for wear.
“Draco, my love,” Narcissa called, running the last few steps and sweeping Draco into her arms. He returned the hug, clinging back, unable to keep the tears from springing to his eyes at seeing her again.
“I missed you so much,” she said, pulling back and cupping his cheeks tenderly. “I wanted to come to you this week, but Riddle sent Bella to watch me. I'm so very sorry I...that we...”
“It's alright, Mother,” Draco replied, smiling weakly at her. “It worked out for the best, really.”
She hugged him again, tighter, if such a thing were possible, before Lucius admonished. “Let the boy breathe, Narcissa.”
“Yes, I'm sorry,” she pulled back, wiping a few stray tears but leaning forward to kiss Draco on the forehead.
“Draco,” Lucius said formally, nodding to his son.
“Father,” Draco replied, saying nothing more. They stood in awkward silence for a moment before Lucius cleared his throat.
“I do hope...previous events will not keep you from coming home, now that the danger to you has passed,” he smiled wryly before adding. “If we are allowed to return home, that is.”
“That Narcissa will be freed is certain,” Dumbledore said. “There will be consequences for yourself, but they will be mitigated by the information you provided us.”
“Thank you,” Lucius said. “I will accept the consequences, and I will rest easy in the knowledge that Draco and Narcissa will be safe together.”
“We will be, if Mother agrees to come back to the house with us,” Draco said, meeting his father in the eye with a steely gaze.
“You are not intending to join her at the Manor?”
“No,” Draco said firmly. “My place is with Harry.”
“It's okay Draco, you can go home with her, if you want,” Harry said, fidgeting in what Draco had come to learn was nervousness.
“How many times, Harry?” Draco said simply, turning to meet his lover's eyes.
“One more?” Harry replied.
Draco rolled his eyes, but took Harry's hand and entwined their fingers. “I'm not leaving you. Ever. Get it through your thick skull.”
Harry beamed at Draco, who smirked back. “Okay.”
Draco turned to his parents once more. “I'm sorry Mother, but I can't come back with you. If you would like to be with us, that can be arranged, and if not we will come to visit, but you are my past, and Harry is my future.”
“I understand,” Narcissa said, hugging him again. “You are so grown up now.”
“I believe it's time for us to depart,” Dumbledore interjected. “Unless you wish to have an interview with the Minister, Harry.”
Harry scrunched up his face in disgust. “No!” he declared. “Let's go home.”
“I will inform him that you will owl him at your leisure,” Dumbledore said, twinkling down at them. “And now, Mr. And Mrs. Malfoy. There are formalities that must be observed.”
“Indeed,” Lucius said, nodding at the four youngsters before turning away.
“I will see you soon, Draco,” Narcissa said, dropping another kiss oh his forehead. “I'm happy you've found your place,” she whispered before pulling back and following her husband.
Draco let out a sigh, then said, “Take me home, Harry.”
Harry did just that.
They got back to Grimmauld Place before anyone else. The house was eerily quiet, at odds with the busyness of that evening. It was also completely the opposite of the battlefield they had left, and it hadn't quite sunk in yet.
“I...I don't know what to do,” Harry said, staring at Draco with wide eyes. “I know it's over, I...I don't know how I should feel.”
“You shouldn't,” Draco said. “You just do. Whatever you feel is...it's good. It's over.”
“It's over,” Harry repeated, a wide smile splitting his face.
Draco smiled back, his grey eyes shining. “We should celebrate,” he said.
“But everyone is still at the...” he began but Draco cut him off with a kiss.
“No, Harry,” he said, pressing close to Harry. “I said, let's celebrate.”
“Oh,” Harry clued in, as his body began to respond to Draco's proximity.
“Now he gets it,” Draco leaned in for another kiss, one Harry returned eagerly. They stumbled back a few steps as Harry's hands began roaming Draco's back, clutching him closer. Draco's hands were tugging on Harry's hair, turning his head whatever way Draco pleased.
“Upstairs,” Harry said between biting kisses. “They'll be back soon.”
“Yes,” Draco agreed, pushing Harry away with his hands, while his eyes beckoned Harry closer.
“You're a tease,” Harry said, reaching out to pull Draco back again, but he was too late, Draco was already at the stairs. He turned and took the steps two at a time, stopping to send Harry another burning look before disappearing down the corridor and into their room.
“You'd better be naked when I get there!” Harry called after his retreating back, taking the steps as quickly as Draco did, then stripping his shirt off as he entered the room.
Draco was almost naked. He was on the bed, shimmying out of his trousers and pants, his socks and formerly pressed shirt in a pile on the floor. Harry wasted no time undressing. Now was not the time for slow love making, this was a time of urgency and desperation. Harry hadn't really believed he would live through the day, so when he'd made love to Draco that morning, he couldn't help but wonder if it would be his last. But he was alive. Draco was alive. Very alive, if his erect cock was any indication.
Before climbing on top of Draco, Harry grabbed the lube from the bedside table and slicked himself up with it. He didn't bother to prep Draco, he was much too impatient and he knew Draco would still be reasonably loose from the morning sex. And didn't that thought make his cock throb.
He climbed between Draco's legs, grabbing them by the ankles and pushing them up until he was almost doubled, with Harry braced between his spread thighs. Harry pushed them back further which opened Draco up wider, leaving his hole right where Harry's eager cock could get to it. He wasted no time, thrusting in all the way on the first push, capturing Draco's gasp with his mouth, swallowing the burn and easing it by nudging Draco's prostate. Harry loved this position, loved the clench of Draco's arse around him and the way they could kiss while they fucked. Loved the way he could control the angle and the speed, while Draco lay helpless beneath him, pinned by Harry's body.
He let go of Draco's legs and braced his hands on either side of his chest, letting Draco's legs slide down his arms. He paused there for a moment, his cock throbbing inside Draco's clenching arsehole while his leg muscles spasmed against Harry's upper arms.
Harry opened his mouth to speak, but was silenced by the look in Draco's eyes. They were filled with love, desire, trust, completeness; all the things that Harry was feeling. He realized that no words were needed, they understood each other perfectly. Finally, after all these weeks with Draco and the months pondering the prophecy, Harry gave over the lingering disbelief, the doubt that Draco wasn't really his. He had faith that Draco would never leave him, that he would never want him to. Fate had brought them together, but the love they felt was real.
Harry began thrusting deeply, quickly, drinking in every moan and gasp from Draco's lips with his own. The intensity was building, not just in his body, but in his heart, his need and desire for Draco going far beyond the physical.
“Harry,” Draco whispered against his lips as his hands gripped Harry's shoulders. He came with a shuddered gasp, as if he hadn't been expecting it so soon. Harry understood, his own orgasm was approaching far too quickly but the certainty that they would get to do this over and over again gave him the push he needed to just let go, releasing into Draco in pulses.
Harry slid down, letting Draco's legs fall to the side, wrapping his arms underneath Draco's shoulders unable to move but unwilling to leave any part of their bodies untouched.
“I love you,” he whispered into Draco's ear, letting the simplicity of the feeling fill him up when Draco replied.
“I love you too,” Draco was tracing his fingers up and down Harry's back making him shiver. Draco's legs were still wrapped around Harry's waist, his arse still holding Harry's softened cock inside, his lips on Harry's shoulder. 'There is no feeling better than this,' Harry thought. He rolled them to the side, letting their legs tangle, mimicking their tongues as they kissed, lazily stroking each other in blissful aftermath.
Before long, he felt himself begin to harden again and he wondered idly if there would ever be a time he didn't want Draco every second of the day.
“I suppose we should get ready for the party,” Harry said with a sigh, shaking his mind back into reality.
“Oh, they don't need us to celebrate,” Draco replied. “Besides, you haven't opened the birthday gift I got for you.”
“You're right, I didn't,” Harry pulled back and smiled. “Where is it?”
“Under the bed, right within reach,” Draco said, winking at Harry lecherously. Harry laughed and rolled over to get it, pulling it up and sitting beside Draco with the box in his lap.
“Right then, let's get this party started.”
End
