Chapter 6
A week into their partnership, Draco found himself increasingly conflicted. The initial goal had been clear: to keep Harry off balance, to manipulate him and win their bet. But as the days passed and they continued working on the Draught of Peace, Draco's feelings began to shift in ways he hadn't anticipated.
They had fallen into a routine, a surprising rhythm of collaboration that was both efficient and, strangely, pleasant. The library sessions were no longer just about research; they became moments where they shared more than just notes. Draco found himself genuinely enjoying Harry's company, appreciating his sharp mind and the subtle humour that he occasionally let slip. It was an unexpected twist in a game that had started as a simple challenge.
One evening in the library, as they pored over their notes and discussed the nuances of the potion's brewing process, Draco noticed how Harry's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm whenever he solved a particularly tricky problem. It was a side of Harry that Draco hadn't really seen before—an earnestness and intensity that was captivating.
"Potter," Draco said, his tone softer than usual, "you've really got a knack for this. I mean, I always knew you were good, but this—" he gestured at the notes and books spread out before them, "—this is impressive."
Harry looked up, a flush of pride on his cheeks. "Thanks, Malfoy. I didn't think you'd notice."
Draco managed a genuine smile, something that had become more frequent lately. "Well, I do. And I have to admit, working with you is... not as bad as I thought it would be."
Harry's expression softened, and for a moment, they shared a look that was different from their usual banter—a look of mutual respect and, perhaps, something more. Draco felt a flutter in his chest that he hadn't expected, a warmth that seemed to radiate every time he looked at Harry.
As they continued to work together, Draco started to notice other things too. The way Harry would lean in closer when discussing a particularly challenging aspect of their project, or how his fingers would brush against Draco's when they reached for the same book. It was all too easy to get caught up in these small moments, and Draco found himself thinking about Harry more than he cared to admit.
One evening, as they wrapped up their study session, Draco found himself hesitating, unsure of how to address the new feelings stirring within him. Harry was packing up his things, clearly ready to head back to Gryffindor Tower.
"Potter," Draco began, his voice a little uncertain, "do you ever think about what happens after the project is over?"
Harry paused, looking at Draco with a mix of curiosity and caution. "What do you mean?"
"I mean," Draco said, running a hand through his hair, "we've been working together for a while now. I'm just wondering... what happens when this is all done?"
Harry frowned, clearly taken aback by the question. "I hadn't really thought about it. I guess I assumed things would go back to normal."
Draco nodded, trying to keep his voice steady. "Yeah, I suppose. Just... I don't know. It's weird to think about going back to how things were before."
Harry studied him for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "You mean, you're actually enjoying this?"
Draco couldn't keep the faint smile off his face. "I guess you could say that."
Harry's eyes softened, and for a brief moment, there was an unspoken understanding between them. Draco felt a pang of something he hadn't felt before—something that went beyond the game, beyond the bet. It was a realization that his feelings for Harry had evolved into something more complicated, more genuine.
"Well," Harry said, finally breaking the silence, "we still have a lot of work to do before we finish this project. Maybe we should focus on that for now."
Draco nodded, though his mind was swirling with thoughts and feelings. "Yeah. Let's finish this."
As they packed up their things and headed out of the library, Draco felt a mix of anxiety and anticipation. He knew that his feelings for Harry were something he would have to navigate carefully. The game had become more than just a bet; it had turned into something more personal and complex.
But for now, all he could do was focus on the project and hope that, somehow, things would work out—whether that meant finding a way to reconcile his feelings or simply finding a new path forward.