“Doesn’t he look sick to you?” Harry asked on a Tuesday morning, glancing towards the Slytherin table.
A few months ago McGonagall had sent all of them a letter, informing them that Hogwarts would be opening its doors soon. They were invited to return to their ‘seventh year’ at Hogwarts, even though it would be like their eight year by now.
At first, Harry thought of not coming back. This place had so many memories, so many secrets… it was a reminder of all the ones who had died.
The battle of Hogwarts.
They had won, but was it worth it? They got their happy ending, but after so much loss and pain, it didn’t feel happy. He just felt… nothing. He felt nothing.
A bit of relief, of course, but other than that… nothing.
“Harry we’ve been through this already.” Hermione sighed.
“Wha—”
“Harry.”
“Hermione.” Harry mimicked her.
She rolled her eyes. “Don’t even think of it, Harry. Leave Malfoy alone.”
“I kind of agree with Harry on this one, Hermione. Bloke looks like he’s seen a ghost.” Ron murmured as he ate (yet another) piece of treacle tart.
Hermione glared at him. “Well, even if he’s sick, that is not of our concern.”
Harry glanced towards Malfoy again. He was looking paler than usual and extremely thin. He kept playing with his food, barely eating it. It was pissing Harry so much that he was so close to standing up and force him to eat.
He looked at Hermione again. “But maybe he’s—”
“Enough, Harry! It’s like sixth year all over again.” She said tiredly. “Your obsession with him has to stop.”
“It’s not an obsession.”
Hermione’s look sharpened.
He scoffed. “Fine! I get it. I’ll drop it.”
For now.
“Thank you. Now let’s finish our meal in peace.” She said and went back to eating.
Harry did the same, but he couldn’t help but wonder.
What’s going on with you, Malfoy?
Two weeks later.
“Oi Malfoy!” Harry called as he caught a glimpse of that platinum blonde hair on the corridors. No one had that hair except Malfoy. He knew it all too well.
The blonde didn’t turn to look at him, as if he didn’t register Harry calling him.
Harry scoffed and walked faster. “I’m talking to you, Malfoy.”
He stretched his arm to touch the boy’s shoulder.
Malfoy turned at that.
His grey eyes looked… tired? Almost sad.
“What is it, Potter?” He asked.
Harry blinked for a moment. It was the first time Malfoy hadn’t talked to him in a mocking way, or as if he was annoyed by Harry’s presence.
He still got a bit of the posh accent though.
“I— um” He stuttered. Now that he thinks of it, he didn’t really have a reason to talk to Malfoy.
The blonde raised an eyebrow.
“Where are you going?” Harry asked at last.
Malfoy frowned. “And why would I tell you that?”
Harry could sense Malfoy had wanted it to sound bitter, but it just seemed like he was surprised by the sudden question.
“Just wondering. Or are you up to something?” He narrowed his eyes.
Malfoy sighed and shook his head. “No, I’m just going to the Astronomy Tower.”
“Not planning another murder, are you?” Harry said.
Malfoy’s eyes widened and he…
Wait. Was he going to cry?
“Shove off, Potter.” He sniffed and walked away.
Harry stared at the corridor where Malfoy had disappeared a few seconds ago. He was quite shocked. Malfoy looked like he really wanted to cry, and that was odd.
Too weird.
Malfoy crying? Come on!
Harry did see him crying once. It didn’t end up very well… so he decided to give him some space. Maybe he was just being paranoid and Malfoy was not doing anything.
Finally, he managed to walk away from there, but this odd encounter didn’t vanish from his mind.
“Mate, careful!” Ron yelled.
They were in the middle of a Quidditch match. Ravenclaw vs Gryffindor. It was raining so much you could barely see the snitch, or anything really.
But after what felt like an eternity Harry spotted it. The golden snitch. The Ravenclaw seeker, who was watching his movements, noticed when Harry made a dangerous dive, so he followed him immediately.
Harry didn’t focus on anything but the snitch. They were already a few points behind and the game was taking longer than usual. He was tired and covered in sweat and he just wanted this to end.
When he was close enough he stretched his arm, his fingers brushing the little wings of the Snitch. So close… So close…
He grabbed it and —
SMACK!
“HARRY!” He heard someone yelling before all went black.
He woke up to see his friends worried faces, both of them around him and watching him closely.
“Oh Harry…” Hermione sniffed. “We were so worried about you.”
His head was spinning a bit. “What happened?”
“You caught the Snitch, but then a Bludger hit you in the face. You fell off your broom, but Seamus managed to catch you just in time. Quite a shock you gave us, mate.” Ron said.
“Oh…”
“Are you alright?” Hermione asked. Her brows furrowed in concern.
“Yeah… just that my head hurt a bit.”
Hermione eyes widened and she seemed on the verge of tears. “Oh no! What if he has a concussion?!” She cried.
“I don’t think—”
“Madam Pomfrey! Help!” She screamed.
Harry sighed.
“She just wants to make sure you’re okay, Harry.” Ron said.
“I know.”
Madam Pomfrey rushed to Harry’s side. “What happened, dear?”
Hermione talked first. “I think he might have a concussion.”
“I don’t—”
“He said his head hurts!” Hermione cried.
“It’s ok—”
“Oh dear!” Madam Pomfrey said. “Okay, I’ll fix him right away, but it’s better if you leave him so he can rest.”
Hermione nodded. “We’ll come back later, Harry. Take care!” She grabbed Ron’s hand. “Come here, Ron.”
“See you later, mate!” Ron said as Hermione pulled him out of the room.
Harry smiled fondly in return.
“Here, drink this, boy.” Madam Pomfrey gave him a glass filled with a purple potion.
“I really don’t think it’s necessary—”
“Nonsense! Drink this and off to bed!”
“But—”
“No complains, Mr. Potter!” She glared at him and walked away.
Harry looked at the potion.
Ugh, it smelled like a dead fish!
He took a sip of it, only to spit it out.
“Ugh! And it tastes like dead fish too!” He groaned.
The next morning.
Harry’s sleep was interrupted when a loud ‘bang’ came from somewhere in the Hospital Wing. He opened his eyes and yawned. It took his mind a few moments to catch up with his surroundings.
A few feet in front of him was Draco Malfoy talking to Madam Pomfrey.
“Sorry about that, I tripped.” Malfoy said sheepishly.
So he was the one who interrupted Harry’s sleep.
“Oh, it’s fine, Mr. Malfoy.” She smiled. “How are you feeling today?”
Malfoy sighed. “The same as the day before. Not much progress, as we expected.” He said sadly.
Madam Pomfrey gave him a sad look, which Harry thought it was very odd.
“I’m sorry.” She said.
Huh?
“It’s fine. I mean, I knew it was not going to work, it’s just… I really wanted it to.” He managed to smile weirdly, but his eyes watered.
“I know, Mr, Malfoy.” She sighed. “Well, you still need to rest, unless you want to speed up the process.” She raised an eyebrow.
Malfoy chuckled. “Alright, I’ll take care. Shall I come tomorrow too?”
She nodded. “Same time as always, I still need to check your vitals daily.”
“Even if it’s not getting better?”
“Even if it’s not getting better.” She agreed.
With that, Malfoy nodded politely and left the room.
Harry was dumbfounded after he heard their chat. It was literally the first time he had heard Madam Pomfrey said ‘I’m sorry’ to anyone. That was extremely weird.
Besides, the way Malfoy looked? That was even weirder. He looked so sad, but… calm? All at the same time. What was he even doing in the Hospital Wing? Was he sick? What does ‘it’s not getting better’ mean?
A million questions popped into Harry’s head, but he snapped back to reality when Madam Pomfrey called him.
“Oh Mr. Potter! You’re awake.” She smiled. “Well, you’re all done. Feel free to leave anytime.” And she left.
Harry blinked for a while. Then, he stood up and left the Hospital Wing. His mind still thinking about Malfoy.
“Very well, everyone. Today we’re brewing the potion that’s on page 245 of your book.” Slughorn announced one day. Gryffindors and Slytherins shared Potions — Ha, what a coincidence. “You’ll work with partners, so pair up everyone!”
Harry looked at Hermione, but she was already with Ron. They gave him apologetic looks and left him alone. He sighed, looking around for a partner, but everyone seemed to be paired up already.
Even the Slytherins.
Great, so they were an odd number.
Suddenly, the classrooms doors opened, only to reveal a flushed Draco Malfoy.
“My apologies for being late, Professor.” He said politely.
“Don’t worry about it, Draco.” He smiled and turned to look at Harry. “Oh! Harry, my boy, looks like you found a partner after all.”
Harry’s jaw dropped. “Malfoy?”
“Well, there’s no one else, right?” Slughorn said.
“But—” He closed his mouth and sighed. “Fine.”
He walked towards the only desk left and waited for Malfoy to join him. When the blonde finally arrived, he was still flushed in embarrassment.
Harry was irritated. His morning hadn’t been the best and now working with Malfoy was the cherry on top. His mood was definitely ruined.
They worked in silence for the first minutes, it was… decent.
Harry started stirring the potion, but Malfoy interrupted.
“You’re doing it wrong, Potter.”
Harry turned to glare at him. “What?”
Malfoy sighed. “I said you’re doing it wrong.”
“No, I’m not. I did everything the book says.”
“You’re stirring it the wrong way, you have to do it counterclockwise.” Malfoy said.
That git.
Harry checked the book and damn it. Malfoy was right, even if it hurt his pride to admit it.
“Whatever.” And he started stirring on the proper way.
“You’re welcome.” Malfoy murmured and rolled his eyes.
Harry’s anger grew even more. “Excuse me?”
Malfoy stayed silent.
“At least I’m working. I’m doing my best and you’re not even helping. Who do you think you are?!”
“You’re sure that’s your best?” Malfoy teased.
That’s it.
Harry couldn’t help it anymore, he punched Malfoy straight in the face. The boy stumbled backwards, his hand going up to his nose, which had just started bleeding.
Harry froze. He never wanted to punch him that hard, or punch him at all, but something about him just made him do it.
Malfoy cried in pain and Harry’s stomach dropped. He felt guilty.
Everyone was staring at them. Harry heard a few gasps, but he didn’t care.
“Malfoy, I’m sorry.” He stepped closer to the boy. He stretched his arm, but Malfoy flinched at the touch.
“Get away from me, Potter!” He yelled and stormed out of the classroom.
After the events in Potions, Slughorn gave him a detention. He groaned and complained, but he deserved it. Malfoy had barely teased him and he reacted like that.
Harry didn’t know why, but there was this feeling on his chest. He felt so guilty. Even a bit worried.
People in the Great Hall were giving him judging looks as they whispered. Harry could feel loads of eyes on him, he felt awful.
“He’s still in the Hospital Wing.” He heard Pansy Parkinson whispering to another Slytherin. “Madam Pomfrey wanted him to stay for the night, must’ve been really bad.”
Enough.
Harry stood up and left the room. Hermione and Ron asked where he was going, but he just said he was going out for a walk.
Where he was really going was the Hospital Wing. He needed to apologise. The guilt was consuming him.
When he got there he finally saw him.
Malfoy was the only student in the room. He was laying on his back, looking extremely pale and in pain. Harry’s stomach dropped again. There were some purple bruises on his face.
Was he really that strong?
He stepped closer. “Malfoy.” He whispered.
Malfoy turned to look at him, just then his eyes widened and his brows furrowed in confusion.
“Potter?”
Harry stepped even closer.
“Came for a second round?” Malfoy asked, trying to tease, but he just sounded scared.
Harry shook his head. “I’m so sorry. I have no idea what happened to me.”
Malfoy gave him a puzzled look. “Who are you and what did you do to Harry Potter?”
Harry chuckled. Malfoy was a big idiot. “You got me there.” He raised his hand in surrender. “I’m actually using polyjuice potion.”
Malfoy smirked. “Idiot.”
Harry chuckled again. “You started it.” He sighed. “But seriously, I am sorry. I- I feel like I’m an awful person.”
“You are.”
Harry looked to his feet. He was disappointed with himself.
“Hey,” Malfoy whispered then. “I’m just kidding. I forgive you, and you’re not an awful person.”
“Funny to say that when you’re literally covered in bruises.” Harry said, looking at Malfoy again.
Malfoy smiled. “I just bruise easily, that’s all. Besides, I’ve done worse things to you, we’re finally starting to get even.”
Harry frowned. “So… you’re not mad?”
“Oh I am mad, terribly mad. I mean, you just broke my nose! It hurts like hell, but I’ll get over it. And like I said, I’ve done worse to you, so I kinda deserved it.”
Harry eyed him curiously. This is not the Malfoy who had spent years torturing him. He seemed like a whole new person. He seemed more… understanding and not so evil.
Still rude and sarcastic, but evil? Not at all.
“Who are you and what have you done to Malfoy?” He said, remembering Malfoy’s words.
Malfoy chuckled. “Oh, don’t be daft!”
Harry let out a laugh. “So… all good?”
Malfoy nodded.
“Does it really hurt a lot?”
“Oh, my broken nose? Not really, it’s nothing. I mean, I lost so much blood I nearly fainted, but…” He shrugged.
Harry rolled his eyes. “I’m sorry. I really hope I could make it up to you.”
Malfoy smirked.
Harry just realised what he had said.
Oh no.
“Hmm, well… I could think of some ways you could make it up to me.” Malfoy said ‘innocently.’
“You’re insufferable!” Harry groaned. “What do you want?”
Malfoy smirked again. He looked particularly smug, just like when they were children. “I want loads of sweets.”
Harry chuckled.
Really?
“Anything else?”
“Well, if you insist.” Harry rolled his eyes. “I want you to play chess with me.”
Harry blinked. “Chess? Why?”
“Yeah, I want to play chess with you.” He smiled. “But, if you loose, you’ll have to wear a Slytherin uniform and scream ‘Malfoy’s the best seeker and I’m so lucky to have met him.’”
Harry’s jaw dropped. “WHAT?!”
“Come on!” Malfoy said. “Or what is it? Scared, Potter?”
Oh, they’re on.
“You wish.” Harry smirked
One week later.
Harry was eating in the Great Hall when a piece of paper bumped on his head.
“Ouch!” He hissed in pain.
Hermione and Ron shared a look. “What is that?” Ron asked.
“I don’t know.” He grabbed the piece of paper and opened it.
‘Potter,
I’ve been waiting my sweets for a week! Did you forget about it? Or you just don’t like to keep your promises?
Anyway, I’ll keep waiting. But don’t take so long, move your bloody arse and get my sweets. Really, I might die before you get them!
Draco M.’
Harry rolled his eyes as soon as he finished reading the letter.
What a dramatic git.
He glanced towards the Slytherin table. Malfoy was staring at him with a smug look on his face, he stuck out his tongue when Harry stared back.
Harry chuckled and turned to his meal again.
“Hermione, do you have a parchment and a quill?” Harry asked.
Hermione frowned. “Yes,” She searched in her bag, “here it is. Take it.”
“Thanks.” Harry said as he started writing.
‘Malfoy,
What a dramatic git you are! You won’t die if I don’t get your sweets. Besides, I didn’t promise anything! And sticking out your tongue at me? What are you, five? Stop being childish, and ridiculous!
Anyway, meet me at the Room of Requirement today at seven o’clock. I’ll be there with your sweets.
Be patient!
Harry.’
He folded the paper and threw it across the Hall. He laughed when it hit the back of Zabini’s head. Malfoy turned RED and asked Zabini to hand him the paper. The bloke looked so confused!
“Harry,” Hermione began, “did you just threw a paper at Malfoy?”
Harry nodded.
“Um, why?” Ron asked.
He shrugged. “I just needed to tell him something, not a big deal.”
Hermione and Ron shared a look again, but he ignored them and went back to finishing his meal.
When Harry entered the Room of Requirement Malfoy was already there, waiting for him.
He was sitting in a couch with a book on his hands. His brows were furrowed in concentration, Harry thought it was adorable.
Wait, no he didn’t.
“Malfoy.” He cleared his throat.
The blonde jumped in surprise. “Merlin, Potter! Don’t scare me like that ever again.”
Harry chuckled. “What?! I just said your name, not my fault your scared of everything.”
Malfoy scoffed. “I am not scared of everything! It’s just… ugh, never mind.” He stood up. “Well, do you have my sweets?”
Harry rolled his eyes and handed him the bag of sweets. “There. I didn’t know what you liked, so I got you a bit of everything.” He shrugged.
Malfoy’s face lightened up. He really looked like a five year old. “Thank you!” He said excitedly.
He sat on the couch again and opened the bag. “Well, even if you didn’t know what I liked, let me tell you you did an amazing work. I like all of them!” he smiled.
Harry grinned. “Glad you like them.” He said, and somehow he actually meant it.
He was hesitating whether he should sit on the couch or not. Would that be weird?
Whatever.
He joined Malfoy on the couch, sitting to his right.
Malfoy started with the chocolates. “Do you want some?” He asked.
Harry nodded. “Can I have a chocolate frog?”
“Yes,” Malfoy handed him one, “but I’m saving the card!”
Harry shook his head and chuckled. “Fine. I don’t care about the cards.”
“You’re mad then. It’s really cool!” After a few seconds he gasped. “Oh look! This one’s you!”
Harry’s eyes widened. “Really?!”
“Yeah!” Malfoy began reading, “‘Harry Potter, The Boy Who Lived (twice). Known for defeating the most powerful dark wizard of all times, Lord Voldemort.’ Okay, they’re definitely boosting you ego here.”
Harry laughed. Genuinely laughed. “That might be true.”
“Might?” Malfoy raised an eyebrow.
“Alright. It is true.”
Malfoy nodded and grinned.
They ate together and chatted about random stuff until it was too late, so they went to their dorms.
When Harry was on his bed he thought about more about it. He couldn’t believe it, but he enjoyed spending time with Malfoy.
They met in the Room of Requirement a week later. Malfoy had insisted to play chess with him.
“I’m awful at this.” Harry said in the middle of the game.
Malfoy laughed. “You truly are.”
“I don’t understand how you do it. I think I’m so close to winning and then you do something weird and I’m loosing again.”
“It’s not weird, it’s called intelligence. I analyse your movements and then I play. Easy.”
“Yeah yeah, whatever.” He rolled his eyes.
Harry gave up after loosing five times in a row. “I’m done. Never playing chess again.”
“That’s a shame, you’re not that bad.”
“You literally humiliated me today.”
Malfoy rolled his eyes. “It’s because I’ve practiced since I could talk.”
“Why?”
Malfoy shrugged. “My father wanted me to be… talented. In everything, really. He said I had to work on my extracurriculars. He said chess developed my mind, so I’ve known how to play since I was little.”
Harry chuckled. “So what, you’re telling me he made you play chess for hours?”
“Precisely.” Malfoy nodded. “There were other lessons as well.”
“Like?”
“You know, a bit of everything. Piano, guitar, violin, that kind of stuff. He even singed me up for dance lessons, since I had to attend to many galas.”
“Sounds boring.”
Malfoy chuckled. “Quite. Not the music lessons, though. I enjoy playing instruments. If there’s something good about all those lessons, It’d be that. I can play whenever I want.”
Harry was rather curious about that. He, obviously, never knew about all these talents Malfoy had. It seemed nice, actually. Harry himself had wanted to play the guitar once, but he found it difficult, so he stopped. Well, for that and because the Dursley’s would’ve never supported his idea, nor pay for the lessons.
He felt intrigued. He wondered if one day, maybe, he would listen to Malfoy playing piano, or guitar or any of the instruments he knew how to play.
“Yeah,” Harry agreed after a few seconds, “that seems nice. I wanted to play the guitar once, you know.”
“Really?” Malfoy asked, surprised.
Harry nodded. “Quite sad I never did.”
Malfoy hummed in agreement. Harry saw how something in Malfoy’s eyes changed, something like hesitation or fear.
“I- I could teach you, maybe.” Malfoy said nervously.
Harry’s face lightened up. “Really?!!”
“Yeah, why not?”
“Thank you!” Harry smiled. “That’s awesome!”
“We could practice here?” Malfoy suggested.
“Great idea.” Harry agreed.
Malfoy smiled.
Harry's stomach fluttered. Malfoy's cheeks were a bit flushed and his grin was so... cute. Malfoy had always been a quiet person, barely smiling or laughing, but in here, he seemed... alive. Harry remembered those days in Sixth year, where Malfoy had looked so pale and sick, this boy was so much better. He prefered this version of Malfoy, the new Malfoy. Sometimes the blonde still looked a bit sick, but not so dreadful or unhappy. Harry's own cheeks started to flush at the sight of this happy Malfoy. He looked nice.
The silence began to feel a bit awkward so he stood up. “I- I gotta go. Hermione and Ron might be worried, it’s getting late.”
Malfoy stood up as well. “Sure. Even if I enjoyed beating you in chess, I wouldn’t want your friends to worry.”
Harry shoved him playfully. “Prat.”
Malfoy laughed.
The fluttering sensation in Harry’s stomach returned. “Um— see you, uh, sorry… when am I supposed to see you?” He asked sheepishly.
“What about every Thursday? Same time as always?”
Harry nodded. “Okay, great. Fine by me.”
“Brilliant.”
“Uh, yeah… um, bye!”
“Bye, Potter.” Malfoy smiled and waved.
Harry ran to the Gryffindor common room. The fluttering sensation never stopped.
They met every Thursday at the same time. At first, they only practiced the guitar. Harry kept complaining a lot about how hard and confusing it was, and Malfoy kept chuckling at every single comment.
However, as the weeks passed they started focusing less on the guitar and more on the chatting. They talked about Quidditch, random stuff they were both interested in and they even shared complains of classes they disliked. Turns out, they both hated Arithmancy. Ha.
It was a bit surprising, but Harry grew fond of these meetings. He actually started looking forward to them. It was the best part of his day, disappearing from the whole school and having a good company for a few hours.
He liked spending time with Draco. It was comfortable and pleasant. He never thought he would be saying this, but… Draco was his friend. Or at least that’s what Harry hoped, because he really enjoyed Draco’s company. The blonde seemed to understand Harry in ways he never imagined, it was impressive. Draco always listened to him and never judged him.
When Harry told him about something difficult or stressful, Draco always asked first how was he feeling, instead of focusing on the problem. Harry thought it was weird, so one day he asked him.
“Why do you always asked how do I feel?”
Draco shrugged. “I think it’s really important to be aware of your own feelings. When things are difficult we can forget about us, even if that’s the last thing we should do.”
Harry blinked. That was… deep.
When did Draco become this wise?
Wait. When did Malfoy turned into Draco?
Harry questioned himself, but he didn’t care. Draco felt right.
“I guess you’re right.” Harry said.
Draco smirked. “As always.”
Harry rolled his eyes, but he couldn’t help the way his lips were twitching upwards. A grin forming on his face.
After a few months, everything began to crumble.
Harry had noticed that on their meetings Draco began to act different. Still the same sweet boy—
Wait, sweet?
— but less… energetic. He always had a soft look on his face, but his eyes weren’t bright. Harry missed the way they sparkled, he wanted Draco to be happy, but every time he asked him if he was okay, Draco’s answer was always a yes and a weak smile.
Harry was starting to get worried. Each day Draco looked more tired. When they stood up for a long time Draco’s breaths became heavy, and every time Draco moved his body flinched, as if he was in pain.
Harry decided to ignore it, but one day, he exploded. He stormed out of the Room of Requirement (where he had waited Draco for an hour). It was a Thursday. Draco couldn’t have forgotten. Something felt very wrong.
If Draco was or had been busy then he would’ve cancelled the meeting before, or at least sent a note to Harry, apologising for the inconvenient; but there was nothing. No note, no message, no signal, nothing. This felt so wrong.
Harry’s stomach twisted in concern as he went to his dorm to check his map. He unfolded it quickly,
“I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.”
The map revealed itself and Harry’s eyes looked for the ‘Draco Malfoy’ dot.
Gotcha!
But then… Harry frowned. It said that Draco was in the Slytherin common room, but that couldn’t be. Was Draco avoiding him? Did he simply forgot? Had he done something wrong?
No, this couldn’t be it. Besides, the weird feeling on Harry’s chest was still there. ‘Follow your intuition.’ Miss Trelawney used to say. Well, what a better moment to follow her advice!
I must be mad.
Harry thought as he walked towards the Slytherin common room. He knocked the door. A few seconds passed before Zabini appeared on the door, eyeing him curiously.
“Potter?”
“Where’s Draco?” Harry interrupted. He couldn’t wait.
“What?” Zabini frowned. “Draco? Uh, he was in his room, I don’t reckon he’s left.”
Harry nodded. “Great, can I come in?”
Zabini’s eyes nearly popped out of his head. He stared at Harry as if he’d grown another head. “What? I- I don’t think you’re allowed—”
“Zabini,” Harry said dryly, “I will come in whether you like it or not, the question was just to be polite.” His tone low and serious.
Zabini looked afraid for a moment, Harry kinda felt bad, but there would be another moment for apologies. “I-”
Harry glared at the boy. His look murderous.
“O-Okay.” Zabini nodded and let him in.
The common room, fortunately, seemed to be empty.
“Where’s Draco’s room?” He asked.
Zabini pointed at the stairs. “Upstairs, to the left.”
Harry nodded. “Thank you.” He said and ran to Draco’s room.
When he opened the door there was no one in sight. Harry frowned. Then, he heard a distant sound of water.
The bathroom.
Maybe Draco’s shower just took longer than usual?
He thought, suddenly embarrassed of the show he had just done, but no. That couldn’t be it. He stepped closer and knocked the door.
“Draco?” He asked, “are you in there?”
Silence.
“Draco? Is everything alright?”
Silence.
Harry’s nerves grew even more. “Draco?”
Silence.
Oh, fuck it!
“Draco, I’m coming in. Okay?” He pushed the door open and his blood turned cold when he saw it.
When he saw him.
Draco’s figure was slumped in the floor. He was unconscious, looking as pale as a ghost and so thin. The bathroom sink was full, water spreading everywhere.
“No no no no no,” Harry shook his head as he kneeled next to Draco. He took Draco’s hand in his, it was as cold as ice. “no! Please wake up!”
Tears were filling Harry’s eyes, his vision becoming slightly blurry. Draco looked dead. Harry thought this was a living nightmare.
He shook Draco a bit. “Wake up! Please wake up!”
Nothing.
Harry casted a levitation charm and levitated Draco’s body out of there as fast as he could. Zabini’s eyes widened as he saw the scene but Harry didn’t care.
He needed to take Draco to the Hospital Wing. That was the only thing that mattered.
He kept murmuring things as he ran,
“Don’t you dare die, Draco! Or I’ll kill you!” He cried. “Please… wake up…”
When they arrived to the Hospital Wing Madam Pomfrey let out a horrified gasp and started healing Draco right away.
Harry, unfortunately, was forced to leave. Madam Pomfrey said he needed to calm down, he protested he just needed to see Draco, but Madam Pomfrey technically threw him out of the room before his protests could get any further.
As stubborn as he is, he didn’t go outside the building or to his dorm. He stayed outside the doors of the Hospital Wing. He just sat on the floor and ran his hands through his hair, refusing to be far from Draco.
If anything happened he could just walk into the room and help.
After a few minutes he managed to breathe properly. The concern and awful feeling was still there, but he managed to recover a bit.
Harry doesn’t know how or when, but he fell asleep.
“Potter! Mr. Potter!” An annoying voice stirred Harry from his sleep.
He blinked and yawned. “What?”
This person muttered something under their breath. “Mr. Potter! I told you to go away!”
Oh, Madam Pomfrey.
He smiled sheepishly. “But I did go away. I left the room, didn’t I?”
Madam Pomfrey glared at him before sighing tiredly. “Mr. Malfoy is awake—”
“Can I see him?” Harry interrupted and stood up immediately. Ignoring the sharp look from Madam Pomfrey.
“I was just getting there, Potter.” She shook her head. “Yes, you can. Only for ten minutes though, Mr. Malfoy needs to rest.”
Harry nodded excitedly and ran inside. He could’ve hugged Madam Pomfrey right there, but that would’ve probably earned him a disapproving look.
When he entered he saw Draco, looking so much better and livid. An adorable flush tainting his cheeks— oh, Harry had missed him.
He let out a breath he didn’t even know he had been holding and walked towards the bed Draco was sitting.
Draco’s eyes met Harry’s and Harry’s stomach fluttered again. But with so much intensity now. Draco smiled — oh, that lovely smile — and Harry felt such a relief.
Before even thinking, he launched himself at Draco. He wrapped his arms around Draco’s waist and pulled him into the most tight and loving embrace ever.
Draco froze for a moment, but then he returned the hug. Harry rested his head on Draco’s shoulder, breathing the scent of Draco.
How did the git managed to smell so good all the time?
Harry’s eyes closed when Draco ran his finger’s through his dark messy curls. It was the best feeling in the world.
Draco must’ve noticed the way Harry relaxed at the touch because he spoke.
“What are you, a cat?” He teased.
Harry pulled back in embarrassment. His cheeks were probably a deep shade of red. “Sorry.”
“Nothing to apologise for, Harry.”
Harry flushed even more. A grin spreading across his face.
They had fallen into a comfortable silence when Madam Pomfrey rushed into the room.
“Draco, dear…” she said, “I am so sorry—”
Huh?
“— We knew this was going to happen, but I didn’t expect it to be so soon. I thought you had a year or two if you followed the right treatment, but…” she shook her head sadly. “I don’t know what happened, but there’s only two weeks left.”
Draco’s eyes widened. Harry remained frozen, he couldn’t understand a word of what had just happened.
“Are— are you completely sure?” Draco asked, his voice quivering.
Madam Pomfrey nodded. “Absolutely sure, dear.”
Draco’s eyes watered. “Alright then, I guess there’s nothing we can do.” He smiled weakly.
Madam Pomfrey sniffed. “So sorry, dear,” she murmured as she left the room, “I am so sorry…”
Harry frowned.
Was Madam Pomfrey… crying?
That felt… wrong. Madam Pomfrey hadn’t cried since… ever! Madam Pomfrey never cried! What was going on?
Harry snapped back to reality when he heard Draco sniffing. He turned to look at him, only to see him crying.
“Draco? What’s wrong?” He whispered and stepped even closer. “What just happened?”
Draco sobbed. “I’m sorry, Harry.”
“What?”
“I didn’t know how to tell you…” Draco cried, “please don’t hate me…”
Harry wanted to scoff at the thought. He could never hate Draco. That story was too old and Harry would make sure it would never happen again.
But whatever this was was clearly stressing Draco, so he kept it to himself.
“What is it, Draco? You know you can tell me everything, right?”
Draco nodded and cried harder. “Harry… I- I’m d-dying.”
Harry’s world stopped. He must’ve misheard. It was just a mistake. This couldn’t be right.
He let out a nervous laugh. “It’s not time for your jokes Draco.”
Draco shook his head.
Harry’s stomach dropped.
“It’s real, Harry.”
Harry felt like he had been slapped. He thought he had found one good thing, one good thing that made him happy and kept him moving forward, and then the universe decided to simply take it away from him.
Why?
When?
How?
What?
This, this couldn’t be real. Harry refused to believe it.
“How—” his voice hoarse, he cleared his throat. “How?” He whispered.
Draco sniffed. “After the war, something was wrong. I thought it was a simple illness, but it was more than that. Before the term started mother took me to a Healer. They said my magical core had somehow been… affected? Damaged? They don’t know the motive, but it’s destroyed. They tried every possible spell, charm, potion, treatment… but it was useless. With that magic inside my body, with all its damage, my life would be drained. They said there are phases.
First phase, I will loose an incredible amount of weight. Second phase, I will feel tired all the time. Third, bruises will appear all over my body. Fourth, I won’t be able to do magic without struggling or any at all, not even first year spells. Fifth, m-my heart will stop and then… death.” Draco explained.
Harry sobbed.
“Oh Harry, please don’t cry.” Draco cried.
Harry only sobbed harder. “H-How could you expect me not to cry? Y-You’re dying! Really dying!”
“I know and I’m sorry.” Draco sniffed.
“What?” Harry asked, “y-you’ve done nothing wrong, Draco. I- I’m sorry! You’re dying for goodness sake! I’m so sorry, you’re so young.”
Draco let out a half cry and half laugh sound. “I know.”
“It’s so unfair.” Harry cried. “I- there has to be a way—”
“Harry.” Draco gave him a warning look.
“Maybe—”
“Harry!”
“No! There has to be a way!” Harry yelled. “I’m not letting you die, Draco. I refuse to believe it!”
“Please… just, stay with me and accept it.”
Harry cried. “Draco…” he shook his head. “No, you’re not dying. I’ll find a way and I’ll come back, I promise.” And he ran away.
“Harry!” Draco called, but it was too late. Harry was gone.
“What happened, Harry?” Hermione asked in alarm when he saw him crying.
“Mate?” Ron called.
Harry shook his head. “I need your help.”
Hermione and Ron shared worried looks. “Of course.” They answered.
“It’s Draco.” He sobbed. “He— He’s dying!” It still hurt to say it.
Hermione’s eyes widened. “Oh, Harry… I’m so sorry.” She pulled him into a hug.
Ron joined them too.
Then, Harry realised he had never told them about his friendship with Draco.
“Hermione, Ron, I… Draco and I— um…”
“We know, Harry.” Hermione interrupted, “we have eyes, you know. We saw the way you look at him.”
Wait what? Were they thinking…? Oh.
OH! They were… uh, the… other thing.
Harry flushed. They thought he and Draco were together? I mean, did they even matched together?
Well, Draco had lovely eyes. He had a sharp jawline and cheekbones that could cut anything, his platinum blonde hair that shinned under the sunlight, and looked ridiculously soft all the bloody time. Harry sometimes wanted to run his fingers through it, but it was just… curiosity? He also had an admirable side profile, perfect nose, thick blonde eyebrows and long lashes. Draco was handsome.
He also loved spending time with Draco, he loved the way Draco made him feel safe, how he made him happy and comfortable. How he made sure Harry was okay, how he furrowed his brows in concentration, how he smiled or laughed, how he flushed at everything embarrassing that happened to him.
Draco made him happy because he… he loved Draco.
Oh it all made sense! The fluttering sensation he couldn’t quite figure out, the way he flushed around him, how good he felt around him. He LOVED Draco.
He loved Draco and—
Draco was dying.
His Draco was dying.
“Hermione, we need to help him. I can’t loose him.”
She nodded. “I know. What should we do?”
“Research. A lot. We have to find a cure for a broken magical core.”
Ron gasped.
They pulled apart. “What is it, Ron?” Hermione asked.
Ron swallowed. “A broken magical core it’s very weird in the Wizarding World. The magic inside the body, its damage, it drains out their life. Now a pureblood to have it… it’s lethal. Harry, there’s no cure.”
Hermione gasped horrified.
“I know.”
Both Hermione and Ron gave him puzzled looks.
“But then—”
“I know, alright? But I won’t give up. I know there’s no cure yet, but then I’ll create one. Hell, I have no idea, but I’m not letting him die. I’ll keep him alive no matter what.”
Hermione and Ron sighed. “Alright.”
And the plan began.
Harry’s heart ached, he wanted to go to Draco, but he was too busy doing research. Besides, he didn’t know if he was ready to see the love of his life dying. He knew it’d be too much.
A week later, Hermione screamed Harry’s name as he ran into the library. That earned them a glare from Madam Pince, so they apologised and went back to their place.
“What happened, Hermione?” Harry asked.
“I found it!”
“What?”
Harry thought this was the first time he’d seen Hermione so excited. There had been happy times before, yes, but none like this.
“The solution! The cure! I got it!”
Harry’s face lightened up. “WHAT?!!!!”
“Yes!” She squeaked in happiness.
“Are you sure it’ll work?”
“I mean, not a hundred percent sure, but how about a seventy five percent?” She asked sheepishly.
“That’s the best chance we’ve got. You’re brilliant!” He hugged her. “Thank you so much! Now, what is it?”
Harry ran as fast as he could to the Hospital Wing, his knees were giving up, but he couldn’t stop. He needed to get there. Get to Draco.
When he spotted him Harry’s stomach dropped. That couldn’t be Draco. The poor bloke was extremely thin, so pale he was practically translucent, his cheeks hollow and dark circles under his eyes. His chest was moving up and down slightly, showing that he was breathing, but not for long though. It wasn’t strong enough.
Harry stepped closer and held Draco’s hand in his. “Draco.” He whispered, his tone gently.
The blonde blinked, opening his eyes slowly. “Harry?” He said, his voice barely a whisper. Harry could tell he was struggling to speak.
“Yes, it’s me. It’s gonna be okay now.” Harry’s thumb traced circles on Draco’s cold hand. “I’ve got you.”
Draco whimpered. “I thought you left me.”
Harry’s heart broke. “Never. I would never leave you, Draco. Nothing could make me leave you, okay?”
Draco nodded. Tears left his eyes and Harry wiped them carefully.
Just then, Madam Pomfrey entered. “What is going on, boys?”
“Professor, I wanted to talk to you,” he glanced at Draco, “about Draco.”
She raised an eyebrow. “Tell me, Potter.”
“There’s a way to stop him from dying.”
Madam Pomfrey sighed. “Nonsense, Potter.”
“Please, listen to me. Let me finish.” He begged.
“Go on.”
Harry sighed. “Well, this problem was caused by the damaged magical core, so we did a lot of research, and as they said, the magical core inside him it’s draining his life. Professor, but what if it wasn’t inside him anymore?”
Madam Pomfrey frowned. “What are you suggesting, Potter?”
“What if the healers, or you, professor, take out Draco’s magical core? After that it wouldn’t harm him anymore, would it?”
Madam Pomfrey gasped. “But— but to do so we’d need to take out his magic, which is another dangerous process and it would-”
“Make me a Squib.” Draco finished for her.
She nodded.
“But, would it work?” Harry asked anxiously.
Madam Pomfrey looked thoughtful for a second. “I mean, there’s no way to be absolutely sure, but… I don’t see why it wouldn’t work. It makes sense.”
Harry smiled. “Great then—”
“However, I believe that’s a decision for Mr. Malfoy to make.” She interrupted. “He has to choose between his life or his magic.”
Harry frowned. Wasn’t it obvious?
He turned to look at Draco. “Tell her, Draco.”
Draco looked at him hesitantly. “I- I…”
Harry understood what that hesitation meant. He was no fool. “Don’t you even think of it, Draco!”
“Harry, I—”
“Why wouldn’t you want to do it?!” Harry suddenly felt angry, “Is it because you hate Muggles?”
Draco shook his head. “No!”
“Really?! Then what is it? Because to me it seems like you’d die rather than live like a muggle!” He scoffed, “your selfishness, your pride, do you really think that’s more important than your own life?!”
“No!” Draco yelled, “it’s none of that, Harry. I just— Merlin! I don’t even hate Muggles! It’s because of me. Only me! I’ve had magic since I was born, I- I don’t know how to live without it. I don’t know how to cook without it, or how to do the laundry or— or how to clean my room. I’m useless without it! I don’t know anything! Without it I can’t even go to the Manor, due to all the bloody wards, I wouldn’t even have a home anymore. And— and my mother! I wouldn’t be able to see her anymore I—”
Draco sobbed.
That’s all it took for Harry to understand. Draco was not being selfish, he was afraid.
Harry didn’t care anymore about Madam Pomfrey’s presence. He needed to comfort Draco, so he did. He pulled him into a loving hug.
“Shh, I’m sorry, Draco. I shouldn’t have judged you, it was stupid.” He said, “You’re scared and I get it. Big changes can be scary, but there’s nothing to fear. You’re not useless without you’re magic, Draco. You’re so talented and smart, you could never be useless. And what if you don’t know anything? You’ll learn, I know you can. There’s always a first time for everything. Besides, I’ll help you. I know a lot about those things and I’ll be right on your side if you need me. You won’t be alone. I promise you, don’t worry about those things now, you can think about it later. What you really need to think of now is if you want to live or not. Just say it, how do you feel? Do you want to live or not?”
Draco sobbed and pressed his face against Harry’s jumper. “I—”
“Take your time, Draco.”
“I— I don’t want to d-die.” He whispered.
Harry had never felt such a wave of relief. Draco wanted to live, that was good. What came next, they could figure it out. Together.
“Okay, that’s perfect, Draco. Thank you.” He turned to Madam Pomfrey.
Madam Pomfrey nodded, she understood. “I’ll call St. Mungo’s, I might need some help.” And she left.
Harry turned to Draco again. “Draco, look at me.”
Draco looked up, his face damped with tears.
Still beautiful, still perfect.
“I’m sorry.” Harry said.
Draco shook his head. “I—”
“No, Draco. Let me finish.”
The blonde kept his mouth shut.
Harry sighed. “I was rude to you and I’m sorry. You didn’t deserve the way I treated you, I know you don’t hate Muggles, but I guess I was so afraid you’d choose not to live that I got angry and brought it up. Even if it made no sense at all. I- I just couldn’t imagine my life without you, Draco. I was terrified. I couldn’t loose you, not when I—”
Harry cut himself. He wanted to say what he really felt, but what if Draco didn’t feel the same way? Was this even a good time to confess his feelings? Was there a good time at all?
Oh, screw it. Draco could die, he needed to know. Harry needed to tell him how much he loved him.
He cleared his throat. “Not when I just realised that I- I love you.”
Draco’s eyes widened. He stared at Harry as if he’d grown another head. “Y-you what?”
Harry took a deep breath. “I- I love you. It took me a while to realise, but I did. I love the way you laugh, the way you smile, how you make me feel safe and comfortable and free, how you always make sure I’m okay… all those little things you do, they made me realise that I love you. You’re so clever, funny, brave, talented and you’re the best person I’ve ever met. I don’t know what I’d do without you, Draco. I love you, so thank you. For everything.”
Draco’s breath hitched. “Harry, I—”
“I want you to know that if you don’t feel the same way then it’s fine, you don’t have to say anything. I- I just wanted you to know, I couldn’t bare the thought of loosing you without you knowing how I feel about you.”
“Harry—”
“It’s alright anyway. You’re like too gorgeous for me, so I probably guessed that you only see me as a friend—”
“Oh Harry, do shut up please!” Draco said.
Harry stopped and frowned. “What?”
“You’re the most oblivious person I’ve ever met, Harry James Potter. I don’t know what I saw in you, but hell, you drive me crazy.”
“Wha—”
But Harry couldn’t finish his sentence because Draco leaned in and kissed him.
WAIT, DRACO LEANED IN AND KISSED HIM!
Harry had kissed Cho and Ginny, but this was a bloke, this was different— oh.
Oh!
It was different and so good! Draco pushed forward, deepening the kiss and grabbing Harry’s hair. Harry thought he might faint at the feeling of it. He was dying. This had to be heaven. Harry’s world started spinning, he swore there were fireworks around them. It was perfect!
They pulled back, resting their foreheads together, their breaths shaky.
“I think I died before you did, ‘cause there’s no way this isn’t heaven.” Harry whispered breathlessly.
Draco chuckled. “Idiot.”
“Yeah yeah, kiss me again.”
Draco leaned in again. “Thought you’d never ask, my idiot. ”
And they were kissing again. And it was the best feeling in the universe.
Seven years later.
Harry woke up with a warm body pressed against his, as always.
Draco.
Without opening his eyes, he tightened his grip on Draco’s waist and pulled him closer to his chest. He kissed Draco’s temple and inhaled, enjoying the smell.
Draco yawned and Harry smiled. “Good Morning, darling.” He said.
Draco yawned once more. “Mmh—morning.” He said sleepily.
Harry tried to give him a kiss on the mouth, but he got Draco’s hand instead.
“Morning breath, love. We’ve talked thousands of times about this.” Draco said.
Harry groaned. “You’re no fun.”
Draco chuckled.
“Well, I’m hungry.”
Draco scoffed. “Really?”
“Yup!”
“You’re taking far too much advantage in me since I learned how to do my own breakfast.”
Harry smiled. “I told you you could learn, didn’t I? Now you make the best pancakes in the world!”
Draco rolled his eyes. “Pancakes? Seriously? That’s been your breakfast for the last two weeks. Aren’t you tired?”
“Never.” Harry smirked.
“You’re an idiot.” Draco said as he pushed himself from the bed.
“And yet I’m still your husband.”
“Yeah yeah, mine.” Draco opened the door and went to the kitchen. “But make me some company or your pancakes might suffer the consequences!” He yelled.
Harry jumped out of bed and ran downstairs. “Don’t mess with my pancakes!”
— The End —