A Loving Shadow

It was the first morning since their bonding where Rabastan woke to his young beloved sleeping in his arms. He knew the young men was displeased about the union, but he still could not help but smile that the wall between them might give way. Until last night Rabastan was certain that he was the cause for his husband's sorrow, it was a miserable thought when he feels so deeply for him, made him despair over his choices. His feelings for Harrison are something he himself was surprised by. It started as an odd fondness that grew over years until one day he found himself obsessed over the green-eyed beauty.

He initially took noticed when Harry was 8 at a Dueling championship, Rabastan enjoyed watching the duels, it was also a prime networking hub for his work as the Lestrange executer. When he went to his seat, he was not surprised to see Lord Black, though the now late lady Potter sitting there with her youngest grandson discussing the competitors with intensity and knowledge reserved for the professionals was unexpected. Normally he does not enjoy hearing people talk during matches, but the boy had an enthusiasm that was contagious, it did not hurt that he was deeply knowledgeable and observant. Since then, he noticed the bright green-eyed boy in various events and venues they were both at, the child’s spirit was enchanting and never failed to attract his attention.

It was common knowledge that Harrison Potter was his grandmother’s pride and joy, and despite his young age was brought with her to places children would normally not. As a result, Rabastan had a chance to observe him closer, the little he saw impressed him. It was clear the child is sharp, quick, and extremely intelligent raised to the Black family standards as is fit to a lady of his grandmother’s caliber. But amusingly he was also very much a Potter; that family is known for producing brilliant menaces that only utilize propriety when they dislike someone. Many in the upper echelons of society have lamented over such an esteemed family inability to confirm, often forgiving their ‘rudeness’ due to their brilliance and power. Harrison Potter somehow managed to combine the Black sophistication and charm, with the Potter eccentricity and brilliance.

He grew quite fond of him, but was self aware enough to keep his distance, after all he is 16 years his senior and he better have a good, verifiable reason to even consider something more than a polite interaction. When it became known that the young man is a carrier Rabastan went to his lord father and informed him that if he was not going to get this union to happen, Rabastan will find a way. He knew that if he won't take the chance now, he might never have it. By that point Harrison was 14, and it was obvious he was going to be a devastating young man once he reached his maturity. It did not hurt his case that carriers were known to produce powerful children.

Rabastan was not planning to settle down, and as the spare there was no pressure; unfortunately, his brother’s ‘darling’ wife did not fulfill any of her duties as a lady befitting her station, in particularly birthing the next heir. It would not have been as much of a problem for any of them had it simply been an issue of things not working out. Even his lord father was aware sometimes these things take time, he did have Rodolphus after 12 years of marriage, and himself 10 years later. The issue was that the little bint thought it was acceptable to entertain herself with another. To add insult to injury the harlot liked going around publicly making derisive comments about her lord husband while ‘allowing’ him to pay for her expansive lifestyle.

Moreover, with the passing of his mother, it was Bellatrix’ responsibility to carry the the duties of the lady of house Lastrange, something a daughter of house Black was trained to do since birth. The wretched things’ public displays were frankly rage inducing. It would have been simple to have the problem go away had she not been so visible, making it a concern of a blood feud with house Black given how obvious what likely would have been the cause her demise. As a result, it fell to Rabastan to find an acceptable match, the problem was no one he met male, or female felt right for such a commitment. Then a beautiful green-eyed menace that charmed him over the years became a suitable option.

Father was not thrilled getting into what was essentially a bidding war, but considering the mess with his daughter in law, a new direction for the family felt promising (he was also relived Rabastan was finally interested in settling down). Especially when he investigated the youngest Potter and could not help but be impressed. It was rare that someone was able to live up to their family’s reputation, Mr. Potter manages to be even more impressive the closer he looked. Sure, Harrison was a true Gryffindor that loved pranks and quidditch, but he along with heiress Lovegood were also the driving force behind the new sanctuary for magical creatures house Potter was sponsoring, the 2 are barely 14. Better yet the boy had a drive that led to him being a strong dueler with a consistent high ranking in the teen division since he was 12 years old.

When father and Lord Potter finally reached an agreement, it was after a long negotiation. Initially Lord Potter turned down everyone, yes, the boy is the 3rd child and a carrier, but he was still an accomplished athlete from a neutral and powerful house that had a known tradition of allowing their children a say in such matters. It wasn’t until later that something changed, and Lord Potter agreed to the betrothal so long as they kept it quiet until his son graduated and added a few more guarantees for his sons’ well being and independence. Though they were surprised that they were both along with Rodo required to sign a strict secrecy contract regarding Harrison's abilities, and Potter family secrets that might come out through marriage and birth, until their account manager informed them it is standard Potter betrothal protocol. Rabastan and his father were pleased with the arrangement, and Rabastan found himself following even more closely.

Harrison was still as hard working as ever, pushing himself, making connections, improving in dueling, it was truly a remarkable sight. The young man was even a successful investor; he somehow managed to be the silent partner in Weasley Wizard Wheezes, a horrid name to a groundbreaking joke store. There was the tea company in the muggle world owned by a werwolf that the young men chose to discreetly fund that was as well remarkably successful. Then there was the bakery opened by a muggleborn that he chose again to be a silent partner in that was quietly gaining impressive clientele. Those were just 3 of the business he was actively supporting that everyone else missed just what a gold mind they are.

As the one in charge of the financial dealings of house Lastrange, he can recognize when it’s more than just a connected rich kid throwing money at a friend. Harrison managed to invest and direct serval successful small business from their starting point before he turned 17 all whilst keeping his involvement unknown. And Rabastan was following closely knowing his intended was involved with each of them, and still is.

As time passed and they were getting closer to the bonding Rabastan and miss Potter (Harrison’s older sister) were the ones doing all the planning, which made sense considering Harrison was in his NEWT’s year, though technically it was the job of the lady of the house. (Lady Potter is a muggle born who never really understood their ways and was known to focus on her work, and he refused to allow Bellatrix anywhere near his bonding). A week after his graduation, it was time for the families and themselves to meet as intended, only for it to be the frostiest greeting he had ever seen from the youngest Potter.

Lord Lastrange, Heir Lastrange and his lady, along with himself waited in a private room in the Golden Abrexan a high-end restaurant for his intended and his family to arrive. First Lord and Lady Potter came to the parlor with polite smiles, followed by their eldest heir Marcus Potter and his wife, than his younger sister miss Dahlia Potter with uncomfortable smiles, only to be followed by their youngest, his intended. The greetings were very polite until he turned to his intended to discreetly ask if something the matter. Harrison bluntly yet politely saw fit to let him know that he was only informed of this arrangement 4 days prior, so if he didn’t mind allowing him time to adjust. That little piece of information brought the Lestrange to a halt, 4 days? No wonder he was uncomfortable. Rabastan wasn’t sure what to think, but he could respect Harrison's request of time to adjust.

To Harrisons credit he kept everything polite and cordial; however, with a Potter that is not a good thing. He wanted the force of nature that wore his heart on his sleeve and was passionate with every breath he takes. But he couldn’t fault Harrison, he just found out about the bonding, Rabastan had over 3 years with the information. Whats more it was clear that the Lastrange men were the ones receiving the warmer side of the young man. No one was free from his displeasure and the more upset he was with you the colder the shoulder you received, especially if your last name was Potter.

In the 3 weeks leading to the bonding every event they had attended somehow ended up having a different encounter to make things even more uncomfortable. In the afternoon party they had celebrating their engagement a week after the frosty lunch a few of Harrisons school mates led by his supposed childhood friend Ron were joking with the youngest Potter about how it was being a future lady of a house. He was about to interfere when heir Longbottom stopped him, telling him ‘Harry would not appreciate it’. During the event each of the ‘friends’ had experienced a different embarrassment that would haunt them for years. Heir Longbottom just gave Rabastan a knowing look…

The dinner hosted by Greengrass family did not improve matters. Rabastan and Harrison arrived as an intended couple only for Harrison to be shoved towards the lady's parlor. Considering his place as the bride of the arrangement it was supposedly logical; however, it was still improper to impose the choice on someone of his standing. Many ladies of other houses from lower standing do not get such a blatant placement. Unfortunately, Rabastan was aware that many felt slighted by Harrisons ‘choosing’ house Lastrange for his intended and than kept quiet. Considering house Potter was known for allowing their children a say along with the betrothal kept quiet it was a logical conclusion. A conclusion that was false, yet still Harrison received the brunt of the reprucations. The entire evening the young men went out of his way to maintain a level of iced decorum that left you on edge. His sister attempted to get him to the other part of the event only to receive a condescending reaction that left her speechless. It seemed he preferred to remain surrounded by haters than spend even a moment with his family.

During a different event It was amusing to see Bellatrix mistakingly thinking she found a kindred spirit. When she made a few comments disparaging Rabastan and trying to lend sympathy the tongue lashing she received about propriety was impressive. He ended it with saying he was relived his beloved grandmother Dorea was not there to see this disgrace. Though it was still a frosty conversation so different from the normal version he is used to seeing.

There was an afternoon tea with the business guild where It did not go unnoticed to neither how many ‘congragtulated’ Rabastan for allowing his young intended such independence. All the while his intended was a mask of indifference that had him worried. What made it worse was that Lord Potter and Heir Black were there and their attempts to smooth matters clearly did not have the desired reaction if Harrisons’ silence was any indication. His intended ended up excusing himself from the event telling his lord father ‘such worldly talks are to advance for me, I better leave before causing further embarrassment.’ Lord Potter’s reaction made it clear he was quoting something, and his father knew better then to push further. Hearing Black tell Potter that ‘it would pass, Harry’s was not one to hold on to anger’ did not make him feel better. This was clearly more than anger.

By the time they reached the day of their bonding Rabastan was fully aware that his intended was not happy with the situation and was trapped by everyone else’s choices but his own. Sure, the betrothal agreement allowed him far more independence than most brides, but he still had his wings abruptly clipped. He was not sure how to react considering throughout it all Harrison was nothing but cordial, easpcially to the Potters whom it was clear just how displeased he was with them.

The ceremony and the dinner that followed were a lovely event that had everyone talking about just how beautiful the couple is, especially with Harrison playing the roll of the blushing young man. But it was clear to Rabastan it was a mask. He also did not miss the distance his intended kept from his supposed friends. Granger and most of the Weasley’s seemed to receive the same treatment as his family, the only difference was that they did not necessarily notice. The only ones to get a less fake reaction were Heiress Lovegood, heir Longbottom, the Weasley twins and oddly his brother. That odd development amused him, throughout this entire situation Rodolphus somehow managed to befriend Harrison, which is weird considering his brother‘s intimidating demeanor.

As the evening progressed Harrison was getting nervous, he knew that his intended was inexperienced, so he tried to reassure him. Once it was just the 2 of them in the privacy of their bedroom it was as if Harrison was frozen, startlingly saying he has no clue what to do. His intended embarrassedly looked away as he said he was never with anyone before, and all he knows was what he read in books. It wasn’t new information to him, but the panic in his young husband was clear. Rabastan guided him as they laid together and attempted to be as gentle as he could, but it was hard. Having someone this delectable laying underneath him was pushing every urge he had.

As they laid side by side enjoying the after glow Rabastan looked at his green-eyed beauty wondering what was going through his mind.

“You can ask you know…” his husband told him quietly.

“Are you ok?…”figured it was the safest at the moment…

“I think so, I think I’m going to need to get used to this before I actually know.” He hummed in agreement, it was understandable. “Now that you asked the obligatory question, ask what you really want to know.” Harrison didn’t look at him, but he could sense the raised eyebrow.

“Demanding, aren’t you…” this made him slightly hopeful there might still be the Harrison he saw in there. “What can I do to make you happy?” He didn’t want his bonded to be miserable being with him.

Harrison took a breath, clearly surprised by the question. After a while Rabastan thought he fell asleep a quiet desperate “I don’t know” was whispered. They laid there quietly breathing until sleep overtook them.

The next morning he woke alone in bed, Harrison side of the bed was cold, and his husband no where to be seen. He went down to the dinning room to find a breakfast waiting with the morning paper and silence. when he asked the house elf why they already prepared the food (it was not the intended time, nor his normal meal) Killy informed him little master told them he preferred his morning routine. As it turns out Harrison was awake for hours and had time to prepare breakfast for them. It was not until he walked to the garden that he finally saw his bonded sitting in the sun with a book reading. He figured he should allow him some time alone, if last night whispered confession was any indication his new husband was no where near solid ground.

That was how their first few weeks of bonding passed, quiet mornings with each doing their own thing, meals with polite conversations and afternoons with companionable silence where they each worked on their own business and correspondence. At night they would go to bed together where Harrison would quietly follow his lead, though sometimes he would awkwardly initiate intercourse, something that clearly did not come naturally to him. Rabastan could appreciate the effort, easpcially when he can see how much he was out of his comfort zone.

The first night seemed to set a precedent of quiet conversations in the darkness of their bedroom after laying together. Sharing little tidbits, you didn’t know unless you talked, it was sweet and gentle and he loved it. One of the nights they laid in bad talking and somehow the topic of first kiss came up, the quiet confession that he never even kissed before Rabastan only shocked him further. But it did explain his utter lack of experience, not just with the sex it-self but how to approach another person in such a way. Apparently, he never had any interest towards anyone, so he didn’t see the point in exploring.

It confused Rabastan at first due to Harrison’s age, but considering his husband was showing a physical reaction to him he figured it might just be lack of focus and association. An issue he concluded Harrison has after 3 weeks of trying to get his husband to branch out of their bedroom. His attempt to initiate something in the back garden backfired spectacularly when he tried to make an innuendo and ended up with a random conversation about birds mating call. You would think his bonded was doing it on purpose had he not been so enthusiastic in the discussion. Harrison appreciated that his new husband was so open to discuss magical creatures and saw it as an opening for other haphazard conversations in the field.

That was only one of many times where Rabastan tried to bluntly initiate sex only for it to fly right over his partners head. He was relived that at least Harrison associated the bedroom with sex, because that was the only place he was able to get some, even the shower was a failure. Rabastan remembers seeing Harrison in events getting regularly flirted with and his friends giving those poor bastards a look of pity, being amused at how unsuccessful they are. Now he just feels sympathy for them, though at least those arseholes didn’t get misunderstood trying to initiate shower sex.

Despite the silent intimacy and attempts to get to know one another Rabastan still felt like there was a wall. He knew that his bonded was trying to find solid ground and nothing that Rabastan said or did seem to help. The few times he tried to start conversations about various options Harrison could pursue got quickly redirected. Now that he was aware of Harrisons lack of knowledge about the betrothal, he understands that the younger man was aiming for the professional adult division in dueling especially when you take in to account his increase of competition participation regardless of it being his NEWTs year.

Initially he believed his intended was simply trying to get it out of his system before the marriage and using the chance to have better connections for other avenues, now he knows better. He did not want to be the reason his husband was miserable; the problem was that he did not feel comfortable encouraging such a dangerous path. Let others risk their limbs for entertainment, he rather Harrison be where it was safe. So they were stuck with this wall while having quiet conversations in the darkness.

When Harrison’s birthday arrived Rabastan felt like the wall was adding a moat, and his metaphors are only getting more absurd with his frustration. He wanted to do something only for his husband to brush it off and say with the bonding being so close it felt like too much. He would rather a quiet evening at their home; apparently, he already informed his friends prior to the bonding that this year he rather not get overwhelmed with celebrations. Rabastan is certain there was something big planned with his friends and then Harrison was informed about the bonding being so close to his 18th birthday making it yet another choice made for him. It was frustrating to see a man that normally so full of life being prim, proper, and most of all subdued. It was clear he was trying, but it was clearer that he was hurting. And Rabastan hated that he was the cause of said hurt.

It wasn’t until they had a dinner at the Potters that there was a change. Initially his husband did not want to attend; however, Harisson’s parents were hosting a dinner with some dignitaries and for propriety's sake Rabastan insisted they had to at least make an appearance. When they arrived his in laws attempted to converse with his husband, but Harrison simply responded shortly and politely. There was no warmth, no feeling, nothing. All the progress he made with his husband in the past month disappeared.

At the dinner ambassador Sokolov kept discussing how surprised he was by the union, kept congratulating them with this sort of edge. It didn’t help that Lady Rowle, and Mr. Brenton were just as surprised by Harrison, attempting to ask what prompted the secrecy. The Potter’s were clearly trying to redirect the conversation unsuccessfully. Towards the main course Lord Selwyn suddenly said how disappointed he was, he was looking forward to seeing him in the circuits with all that build up. If his mother in-laws sour face was any indication there was more going on that Rabastan was aware of

Throughout the evening his husbands brushed it off saying how it is not proper for him to do, and he knows better then to take ridicules chances. The thing is it was not the first time he heard Harrison say such a thing, and he always had the same fake smile. Every time the issue of secrecy about the contract came up, he would just say he followed the wisdom of his elders, he knew better than to assume he understands how the world really worked and unintentionally embarrass his house. This was the 2nd time he heard it, and both time James Potter seemed uncomfortable. When the evening was finally done, they said polite goodbyes and left. Harrison did not even bother to pretend to converse with his family.

By the time they reached home Harrison was quiet, and Rabastan was on edge. They needed to talk, this isn’t healthy. He tried broaching the subject with Harrison only to receive a frosty ‘don’t worry, I’m not stupid enough to bother.’ And quietly he went to the shower. He wanted to shake him so he would get something other then frost, but then he noticed his husband was pale and his eyes were red when he left to the bethroom, so Rabastan said nothing. What surprised him was that Harrison still kissed him, he didn’t want to go any further, but the intimate touch was still there. Once they laid in bed side by side, he felt desperate to try again. “Can you please talk to me? I’m trying to understand but I can’t if you say nothing.”

After a few breaths he finally spoke. “I had plans for after graduation, marriage was not one of them.” It hurt to hear but it was nothing new. “It’s not you or this union that I have issues with, it’s the lack of say in the matter. I didn’t even get the courtesy of a proper heads up. The contract was signed before I was 15, and I was only informed about it a month before our bonding.” That is an issue Rabastan had plenty of time to dwell on, he himself needed time to adjust and he was 31 at the time, and the one that initiated the contract. “I just don’t understand why no one told me anything. They all knew, even Sirius and Remus. They just set there as I was telling them about my plans, as I was working myself to the bone being good enough to achieve them and said nothing.” Rabastan turned to look at him as saw tears coming down his face, he sounded devastated.

“The thing is that I understand dueling is dangerous, and I always assumed it would be short term. I even laid the foundations so that I wouldn’t be dependent on my family for finances knowing my dream shouldn’t drain the family coffers. But as it turns out my dreams were only meant to remain a fantasy in my head.” He sounded like he was quoting someone and Rabastan was concerned. ” You know, before dad told me about the betrothal contract, I was setting up auditions to the English nationals, I’m already ranked high enough in the teen category, so I’m only missing 2 competitions to qualify for professionals. It was out of no where, dad summoned me to his office, I figured he wanted to go over the schedules make sure I didn’t sign up to any matches during important dates, only to be informed that I’m due to bond in less then a month and everything was already set.” He sounded so shocked, and it had been 2 months since.

“I didn’t even take him seriously at first, thought it was a joke. Dad loves pranks, it was the only thing that added up. Surly he wouldn’t make a contract without even talking to me, were Potters, we don’t do that. Then he produced the betrothal agreement, with verification from Gringotts and family seals. As I read it I don’t know what hurt me more, the fact that it was finalized over 3 years ago while I knew nothing. Or the fact that my father, and brother’s signatures were plain to see. I was in shock, so I left the room to think.” Rabastan knows he would have been enraged, but Harrison just sounded defeated.

“That evening we had a family dinner where mom started talking about the bonding and what the family needs to be involved in. I remember sitting there confused at just how nonchalant everyone was, Dahlia even sounded relived when she said ‘oh good, you finally told him.’ Marcus had the audacity of telling me I need a new hobby, it wouldn’t be healthy since I’m a carrier.” Harrison turned away from him his shoulders hunched to himself as he kept talking, Rabastan really wanted to curse Marcus. Sure he wasn’t thrilled with his bonded preferred field but there are better ways to phrase it. And what was James and Lily thinking?

“To add insult to injury, when I went to my room to process everything mom barged in order to make sure I know what it means to be a ‘lady of the house’ since I was negotiated as the bride to an ancient and noble house. This is my mother, and she didn’t seem to care that I was hurting. All she wanted was to make sure I wouldn’t cause embarrassment.” He took a few deep breaths and Rabastan can hear the despair in the words. This was ridicules, sure his bonded was taking the place of the bride of the union but it didn’t change who he is, it only meant taking some precautions. Besides, if there was someone that does not get to lecture anyone about being proper it’s Lily Potter, she had more faux pas than even Bellatrix.

“I’m trying, but I wasn’t made for any of this. I don’t know how to be a proper ‘bride’. I don’t like having to hold my tongue. But what I really hate is being told that everything about me is wrong simply because it turns out I can carry a child. I was raised as one person and then I reach 14, and according to society the child I was raised to be doesn’t fit. My entire life dad kept claiming it changes nothing, that my ability to carry didn’t mean anything different, that I was still the same person he raised me to be. Looking at my family I believed him, since I know that he respected Dahlia’s choices no matter how many contracts he received. So if nothing changed, and it is not my ability to carry, why treat me different than the rest of the family? ” Rabastan held him as he cried, it was obvious the problem was bigger than he realized.

He hated his in laws for making his beloved feel so wrong when he should know just how special he is. Moreover, he was confused why the Potters didn’t tell him anything about the contract, clearly it was the lie and being blind sided that bothered him more than anything. Also, if they knew that he had plans and was making preparations for them why leave him in the dark? And if tonight was any indication his family was fully aware of said plans and connections. They were aware of how it would make him look to have to backtrack on everything. Rabastan couldn’t fathom working so hard for his dream just to have it ripped from him. He held his husband as he cried himself to sleep trying to think of a conceivable way to help. The one thing that was obvious to him was that a break from the Potters was necessary. His husband was hurting, and their presence only made it worse.

So now after a restless night sleep he found himself with the subject of his obsession in his arms, his husband was still there for the first morning since their bonding not showing any inclination to leave. He knows now that Harrison wasn’t disappointed about the marriage or Rabastan, but about how it all came about. Rabastan can respect that, it didn’t help that he knows he lived the life his bonded planned to; he was a 34-year-old man, had a chance to make his own choices and mistakes, the one who initiated the contract and had over 3 years to adjust to the idea of being bonded.

There was always going to be an imbalance in the relationship, but this unnecessarily exaggerated it. Harrison had every path cut off, placed in bonding robes, and set to a life he had no real say in. Worse, he had no time to adjust to the information, despite everyone around him knowing for 3 years. Rabastan understood needing time to get his bearing, it wasn’t too much to ask. As he was thinking over everything, he was smiling to himself, sure last night was draining, but it finally felt like they made progress. It didn’t hurt that his husband was sleeping soundly in his arms.

When he finally woke, he seemed lethargic and lost, like last night was just too much for him, so Rabastan decided to take the lead and took Harrison by hand the rest of the day. For the most part they were both silent, and it felt right. As the day passed his husband mostly kept by his side, he seemed to be lost in thoughts so Rabastan decided to say nothing. By the time they reached bed it was an entire day of quiet intimacy that carried over to their bedroom. Rabastan didn’t object, it was pleasant in an odd way neither said anything as they followed each others lead. They both had a lot to think over and they weren’t pushing the other away as much as they were not ready to voice anything yet.

Unfortunately, the world kept turning and they couldn’t continue to ignore it. House Lastrange had a strong presence in the magical world, and as the main line his family in particular had a responsibility to carry. His father and brother took on the social and political weight, while he focused on the financial. It was comfortable and leaned on each of their strengths. Unfortunately, it meant he was not exempt from events such as the Black summer ball. Especially as he is now bonded to the youngest potter who grew up calling Lord Black uncle.

As they were preparing for the ball, he decided to make something clear. “Harrison,” his husband turned to him. “Just so there are no misunderstandings, I rather you did not attempt to be anything but what you are. I asked permission to marry you knowing you are a bullheaded Gryffindor. This proper version of you is off balancing.”

Harrison was surprised at that, but after a few moments he then smiled softly, and answered, “I suppose I can try… though it would be nice if you called me Harry. Only grandmother called me Harrison and it normally meant I’m in trouble.”

When they arrived to the ball he had a feeling he unleashed something unholy. As soon as they arrived heir Black came to hug his husband only to receive an actual hand to the face, and Harry politely informed him that such impropriety is unbecoming from someone of his status. Even Lord Black had to hold back a snort at Sirius petulance. Harry then went ahead to hold a lovely chat with his Uncle Orion and Aunt Waly whilst giving heir Black the most polite short responses.

The Potters that approached him received the same attitude as heir Black, while everyone else received the normal Harry. What surprised him was a few of his Potter cousin approached him only to receive the same frosty attitude, one cousin did not seem to realize that the longer she attempted to talk to him the frostier he got. It got so bad that he looked her in the eye and told her to stop interrupting his quest for Cassiopeia. Nobody sane voluntarily look for that women, which just goes to show the unholy terror he married. Though it did get rid of her…

It was amusing being on his husbands arm, and yes he insisted on Harry to be the one taking the lead. Harry seemed to attract an entirely different crowed then him, it had nothing to do with status and everything to do with crazy, and brilliant. When his beloved found Cassiopeia, Rabastan finally understood just how out of his depth he was. The two walked to a side room as they were talking about advanced magical theory, politics, casting techniques, and gossip in the same breath. He could hardly keep up, it only became worse when heiress lovegood joined and they started to skip languages as well.

At a certain point Cassiopeia Black asked if Rabastan was doing well, only for his husband to tell her to keep her claws to herself, this one is taken. He was starting to fear what it means to be ‘Harry’s eye candy’ as the ladies dubbed him, but he was sure it wasn’t a bad thing. Once a few more joined the conversation he was mostly busy trying to keep up with what they had to say, only to realize why his husband always had better grasp over business nobody saw coming. He had an in too a hub of gossip/intel exchange. Even Cassiopeia Black, and Augusta Longbottom were carefully following the conversation when the Weasley twins were discussing some embarrassing observations they had in their dealings. McDougall adding some gossip from the international relations office didn’t hurt either. Though the true gold mine was Heiress Bones discussing with Heir Longbottom the idiocy behind the exclusivity over the sporecky tymeria plant. Apparently it wasn’t as effective as advertised in their region due to differences in the pollination process. That was a tidbit he was relived to discover before pushing for the exclusivity rights, though the idea of using the chance and have a potioneer study alternate uses had merits.

What amused him was when Regulus, and Bridget Black joined the group it seemed Regulus was doing the same as himself. Letting his clearly smarter spouse take the lead while he paid close attention. He did not miss his friends approving look when seeing him. He also noticed that when ever an outsider came to join their group they tended to switch talking about archaic piece of magic, plants, and what ever else would push you away. It was amusing when Oleana Maclaggen came to say her rounds of hello attempting to gossip only for Harry with a straight face asked if she could settle their argument over Darjeeling brewing philosophy. The brat then proceeded to tell her each of the offered arguments. You could see the life leave her eyes as he was talking, and it only encouraged them. What worse was that Lovegood and Cassiopeia started to passionately argue over it, with Fred Weasley gave derisive comments over their hurried French influence. Lady Maclaggen took the first chance she had to leave. It was beautiful, and disturbingly coordinated as this pack of predators went back to their information exchange.

By the time they left the hub of intel Rabastan felt like he learned more crucial information that can help his house than he could with any of his personal fielders. As he went to get himself and Harry drinks, he was ambushed by Heiress lovegood, and miss McDougal the petit blond took the chance to warn him, ‘those of us that actually care about your husband were worried. Tonight was a good start, do not disappoint.’ He knew he should be offended, but he was just relieved his beloved still had people in his corner. Easpcially with how disappointing his family turned out to be.

The peak of the night, or more accurately low was when Bellatrix thought it proper to laugh as she loudly discussed his husbands' frosty attitude towards the Potters publicly and how it goes to show what sort of man is attracted to the likes of Rabastan. He was not disappointed to see his sister-in-law was suddenly silenced, and frozen in place with his husband standing over her looking extremely disappointed.

“Bellatrix dear, for a daughter of house black you seem to be missing some sophistication.” He spoke like she was a disobedient child the silence around them was deafening. “Uncle Orion, it is rather sad when your house produces such… disappointments.” He looked with a raised eyebrow at lord Black when the man came to see what happened.

Rodolphus walked towards them slowly with a drink in his hand. “Apologies, Harrison, she knows better, I honestly don’t know what has gotten in to her…” he put on a sad face as speaking, though Rabastan could see he was enjoying it.

“I told you before, it’s Harry, you make me feel like I am in trouble.” His husband said petulantly. “Lord Black are you going to do anything about a daughter of your house behaving in such a manner or should I take offense?“ It was a good opening, Orion knew better than to offend Harry over a thorn in everyone’s side, and Rodolphus had already ‘attempted’ to offer apologies. Whats worse was that sure Harry might be the first to draw a wand, but she was the one to make a scene loudly insulting him and his family without cause.

“Harry, please let her go, her lord husband is here, he can handle her misconduct.” Harry just looked at him with a raised eyebrow, knowing that he was walking a fine line.

He said with the most annoyed tone “Uncle… She had the audacity to besmirch my new husband in an event you host and did not even have the decency to disguise it. Grandmother have passed, but the vale would not stop her from finding a way to admonish me for such leniency.” Oh he was good, Lord Black was now backed into a corner, and he knew that Harry wasn’t offended as much as raised by the Black standards. Which was far worse…

“Dorea did hold you to a proper caliber… I will handle her, and she will learn to keep her silence,” only to then quietly added, “and perhaps show some class” his husband gave her an annoyed look and just waved his hand to let her go. It was at that point that everyone realized he did it all wandlesly and silently. Bellatrix was not pleased but it was clear she knew better and followed Lord Black and her Husband to be thoroughly reprimanded.

He was having all sort off ideas how to show appreciation to this fiery bonded of his. This evening couldn’t end soon enough. Off course that was when Lily and Dahlia approached them, being the nuisance that they are. His husband was a saint for not giving them the same treatment he gave Bellatrix, especially when they both attempted to reprimand him for being an embarrassment and making a scene. Rabastan placed a privacy ward around them so they would not be able to demean his husband further,

“I can assure you that he is not the embarrassment here…” Rabastan tried to hold back his outrage.

“Look Rabastan, this is not just about House Lastrange. house Potter doesn’t just go and assault others over words.” Is miss Potter right in the head? Because Rabastan knows James in normally far more aggressive than how Harry reacted. Hell, Marcus himself is a known hot head.

“There was no wand, and he merely silenced her, if anything it was impressive and powerful, are you seriously reprimanding him for stopping that disgrace to both our houses?” His husband didn’t say a word, but it was clear he didn’t want to be there.

Lily just gave him a condescending look, “I know you are enchanted with my youngest, but he will never learn his place if you don’t make sure he understands where he went wrong.” Dahlia seemed to realize that this is not going to end well and tried to stop her from talking but the damage was already done. Then she had to make it worse. “It’s not just your house his behavior reflects on, the Potter’s have a standard to uphold.” Harry just looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

Rabastan was about to tare into her only for Harry to say in a bored tone, “Lady Potter, do us all a favor and go back to your intellectual conversations, some of us have cocks to suck and this conversation is far to advanced for out little brains.” Rabastan doesn’t know where that came from, but if Lily and Dahlia’s reaction is any sign it was a reference to something Harry wasn’t supposed to know. After that Harry just walked away with Rabastan while holding on to the most pleasant smile. It really angered him, that the evening was going so well until a Potter came over to muck it up. He knew when he wanted them to have an honest conversation the best time was in the darkness of their bedroom, where it was just the two of them. So, he patiently waited to ask. It was a few hours later, with a few more attempts from his family to ‘talk’ that he they were finally able to go home.

This time Harry didn’t even bother to pretend he just turned his back and started talking.

“I know I was out of line with the way I behaved tonight but she pissed me off. Every time I see the wretched thing she bad mouth not just her family, but now mine as well and she uses her status as a born Black as a pass to do as she pleases. I get it was not my place to call uncle Orion on this bullshit, but it was either that or curse her.” He was breathing heavily as he talked.

It took a moment for Rabastan to realize they were upset about 2 different things. “You misunderstand if you think I am unhappy about you dealing with that bint. I’m unable to do anything about her behavior and was pleased to see her silenced by you, the only problem I had was that you were too gentle with her.” His husband made a confused sound and turned to him. “I was worried about the conversation you had with Dahlia and Lily, particularly how you ended it since it sounded like you were repeating something.”

He looked contemplative at that, then took a deep breath before talking “more paraphrasing… you have to understand Potters have a history of being pioneers, bright minds who push their fields forward. Even my father as much as he likes pretending to be the fool in public is still a world class warder and enchanter. His warding systems have yet to be penetrated and don’t get me started on how useful some of his patents are. My siblings each reached their first mastery by the age of 20, compare to them with my O average, and athletic aspirations I’m not up to par.” Rabastan felt confused by that, his husband had an impressive resume, and he was just shy of 18. “It didn’t help matters that at the first chance he gets father married me off without a so much as a by-your-leave.”

“Wait, I have to stop you there, the contract negotiation between our fathers were intense and lasted nearly a year. James took my father to task, and he did not relent.” Harry just gave him a pitting look for that.

“Rabastan don’t take offense, but my father was trained in negotiation by Dorea Potter, he probably took one look at Corvus and knew just how much he could squeeze out of him. Your family is not that good at masking what you want.” He felt like he should be offended, but after spending an evening with Harry and his connections he had a feeling he wasn’t exaggerating. “Moreover, he knew the contract needed to be up to par with the formal Potter bride standards, he couldn’t set a precedent.” Wait, seriously, that’s a standard for a Potter bride contract? Even Bellatrix doesn’t have so many safeguards in her contract and she’s a Black.

“Anyway, as you are aware I was not most pleased about the arrangement and did not talk to any of them as the bonding ceremony came near. Off course because of the bonding the rest of the Potters were staying at the manor and you know how it is when everyone get together. What my family often didn’t realize is that I have a habit of waking up at 4 am to train. Just because I’m not going to be a professional did not mean I was going to start slacking. In the mornings on my way to training, I often end up overhearing mother, Dahlia and a few of our cousins at the end of their fun nights of catching up still drinking and talking. I’m pretty sure I heard Marcus and his wife also still there. It seemed they were curious if being a carrier was why I am not that smart. Went to great length discussing just how lucky it is I have something to make me unique since I’m so unremarkable. Figured there might finally be a use for my big mouth…” Harry didn’t continue, and he really didn’t have to.

“I know they are your family, and you care, but the more I know the more I want to curse them. No matter our differences Rodolphus and I have never talked that way about the other. As for the rest of the Lastrange house, even with all the madness Belatrix pulled none of them dared comment about it to either of us and she’s not even a born Lastrange… if I know you well enough by now, I’ll bet you are not saying the worst of whatever was said there.” Rabastan looked at him with a raised eyebrow. Harry just shrugged back like it was not worth to comment. In a way it wasn’t. “Just so there are no misunderstanding calling you unremarkable means the rest of us are pathetically unimpressive.” Harry gave him an indulgent smile.

“No, seriously, you verbally spar with Cassiopeia Black, and Augusta Longbottom for fun in multiple languages. You were already ranked at top 10 European dueler at the teen division when you were 13, when most of the real competitors were at least 3 years older. You and Lovegood pushed for an animal sanctuary that most adults would still be stuck getting permits with the bureaucracy hell that’s the ministry. You two did it at 14 as a side project while still doing well at school, don’t think I’m unaware that you and Luna really did all the work, and Heir Potter only joined to ‘help’ with the sponsoring when everything was said and done. I’m fairly sure the only reason you won't have a master's by now is because you don’t care.” He was baffled what was going on with the Potter’s. Who in their right mind looks at his husband and think unremarkable? “You really don’t get it do you?”

“I mean, all you are talking about are things that requires work and persistence. Most are just too lazy to bother. And the verbally sparing thing I was doing this since childhood, honestly it would be sad if I couldn’t.” The worse part was he was looking at him like Rabastan was merely indulging him.

“Harry, I say this with all the admiration in my heart, you are a clueless idiot with impossible standards. It takes drive, hard work, and a brilliant mind to achieve all the things you have, easpcially considering how young you are. And sure, your siblings have the credentials to show how intelligent they are, but you have the resume. You and I both know the amount of work and research that goes into being a world class dueler; to reach the upper echelons you have to be an impossible combination of athletic, powerful, creative, and brilliant. Your birth house doesn’t have interest in your preferred field meaning they don’t comprehend just how impressive you are.” He doesn’t like encouraging anything to do with dueling but damnit, this is maddening!

His bonded just laid there looking confused, “ok…” he than snuggled closer towards Rabastan, seeming to process the conversation. He was wondering just how bad it would be if he cursed Lady Potter’s voice off.

The annoying thing is that he knew that Harry wasn’t telling him how bad it really was. His bonded is many things, but he doesn’t take offense easily particularly from those he cares for, even with Bellatrix tonight he wasn’t offended he was annoyed. What more did his family say and do to get such a harsh reaction, because he wasn’t angry with them just deeply hurt and resigned. And what did it have to do with Sirius, because unlike the rest of the Blacks he seemed to be grouped with the Potter’s. He laid there with his husband in his arms really annoyed about the turn of events, those damn brats ruined his lovely evening and now he is in bad with a husband who is so overwhelmed Rabastan knows better than to try and have sex. Damn it all, he had plans!

Rabastan was worried when Harry moved on as if nothing happened the next day but didn’t really know what to do about it. They continued their days with the routine they established which was nice. He was surprised when his husband told him he was thinking about inviting a few friends over. It felt like Harry was trying to ask permission without asking, but honestly, he wanted him to be comfortable in their home. He just looked at his husband asking if he was allowed to join or is he exiled to his office for that day? The smile and eye role he was rewarded with felt lovely.

That’s how he found himself spending an afternoon with the scariest group of misfits he ever met. Off course he was stuck receiving everyone since his husband was baking up a storm and the elves were busy running after their little master. Why Harry insisted on making the food himself he didn’t know, but it made him happy, and the elves didn’t seem to take offense, so he said nothing. Harrison had a way of talking them into things Rabastan was never able too, he wasn’t sure if he should be concerned of the potential this has.

Heiress Lovegood, or more accurately little moon showed with Rolf Scamander and 3 huge hounds saying she just got back from a hunting expedition (because that somehow made sense?) and gifted him with a very odd-looking vase telling him it will keep away the warkspurts. Neville Longbottom arrived with a cart asking where his greenhouses are, it was better if he did the planting right away. Heiress Bones arrived with a creat of wine saying she hoped she brought enough drinks. The Weasley twins and Mr. Jordan were carrying huge cases asking where his husband workshop is, they brought him new toys to experiment with. (Which was when he realized his husband was mostly working wherever, something that needs to change, Harry deserves a space that is just his.) they were quickly joined by Ms. Johnson, Ms. Spinnet, Ms.Bell also known as the quidditch queens. The ladies each carried boxes telling him its better for his mental health to not know, just to point to the Harry’s workshop.

He was surprised when his brother, Regulus Black, Caius Avery, and Evan Rosier with their wives (with the exaction of Bellatrix) also showed saying Harry invited them. He hadn’t realized that when Harry said a few friends he did not just mean his own. It was a fun afternoon full of laughter and pranks. Somehow his high society friends found themselves swallowed into the madness that is Harry’s group of mad geniuses. He was still shocked that Harry and Regulus were having a seekers duel with the Weasley twins running bets while Lee was doing commentary. Which according to Caius Regulus will lose and claim he was being nice to the youngling, 40 minutes later that was exactly what happened. (Rabastan was aware that Harry was the only Potter Regulus likes and that he was the one to train Harry at being a seeker.)

Seeing Evan get into vigorous argument with Katie over a runic sequence he never heard of just to have Briana (Evan’s wife) and Suzan shove deserts in their mouths to get them to shut up was hilarious. The 2 did get distracted so he wasn’t complaining. Overall, it was a good day, he wanted more afternoons with people he liked in their home filled with laughter and intense arguments over nothing important. It’s been too long since he spend a fun day with his brother and his friends, he was grateful to his beloved for making sure to include them. Though he wasn’t sure introducing Milandra Avery to the quidditch queens was wise, or having Briana Rosier and Lee Jordan in close proximity would end well, those two were far to appreciative of of the twins inventions. And he rather ignore Bridget, Rolf and Neville discuss man-eating plants with such enthusiasm. Who knew there were so many?

Though seeing his brothers heart break at saying goodbye to the hounds that he still doesn’t understand why Luna and Rolf brought was hilarious. He later found his devious husband gave a house elf a camera and charged him with taking pictures of everything. His husband really is a gift. When they went to bed that night they made love lazily, enjoying each other and the soft touches. He was surprised how much he liked it; the softness and care, he never had that before, not with any of his former lovers.