Part 15
Harry wasn't too sure what to think of the reflection staring back at him. He looked cleaned up and fancy in a way he barely recognised as himself.
The only formal robes he ever wore were back in fourth year, and they weren't exactly the best. He'd been extremely uncomfortable the entire Yule Ball, and they'd looked a bit ridiculous on him. These robes were much fancier, and softer on his skin. They even looked expensive, and he felt rather like a fraud just breathing near them.
But Tom said they were perfect for the Malfoy Ball, seeing as they were the same style Ministry big shots used to wear around the time Tom went to Hogwarts. Apparently the slim-fit, clean cut, shiny fabric was all the rage back then.
“Harry?” Tom knocked on his bedroom door. “Are you ready to go?”
“Yeah, you can come in.” Harry tore his eyes from the mirror and turned as Tom opened the door.
“You look great.” Tom said, offering him a smile. “Shall we?”
“Sure.” Harry tried to ignore the anxiety crawling up his throat.
“Harry.” Tom paused, meeting Harry's eyes with a gentle expression. “We don't have to go if you don't want to.”
“If we don't go, it would offend literally everyone.” Harry huffed. “You're the Minister for Magic. I don't know much about politics, but I know offending them would be a bad idea.”
“Let them speculate all they like.” Tom said, “It matters not, in the grand scheme of things. You, on the other hand, matter much more. If you don't want to go, we can stay here and have dinner, doing absolutely nothing if that's what you'd like.” Harry just blinked at Tom for a moment. He didn't know what to say.
Though Tom was the easiest adult for Harry to spend time with, even he was complicated sometimes. Tom was kind, understanding, and he always supported Harry in everything he did. But… suddenly Harry didn't know what to think about that. Harry was a Gaunt, supposedly, and that made a lot of difference.
Sure, Tom had no way of knowing before, but did he only care for Harry because of their blood? Even if it made no sense, even if it wasn't practical, doubt was building in a way that made Harry hate himself.
“I know what you're thinking.” Tom said suddenly, smiling sadly. “And you're wrong.”
“What?” Harry frowned.
“You're thinking that maybe I'm only still taking care of you because you're my cousin. But that's not true.” Tom smiled at him, honest warmth shining in his face. “You're here because I wanted you to be, and I would've happily housed you as long as you needed me even without knowing what I do now. Am I happy we're related, albeit distantly? Absolutely. I'm thrilled, actually. But is that what fuels my fondness for you? No, it is not. I want you to know that, Harry. Alright?”
Harry, childishly, felt like tearing up. He hadn't realised how scared he was until Tom said it himself - how much of the kindness he received was because of his newfound background? How much of it was really him, and not his blood? Well, if Tom was to be believed, maybe it had nothing to do with that and everything to do with the fact that Tom genuinely cared for him.
“Now, what would you have us do tonight?” Tom asked, “Anything you'd like.”
“I think… I'd like to go to the Ball.” Harry said slowly, “But, do we have to stay long?”
“I never stay long anyway.” Tom said with a conspiratory smile, “They tend to bore me after awhile.” Harry laughed.
“Then, sure.” Harry smiled. “We can go. For a little while.”
.
Upon reaching Malfoy Manor, Harry wondered whether he'd been better off staying at home with Tom instead. But he mustered the courage he so often felt he no longer had, and followed Tom through the beautiful gates.
The entire Manor and grounds were decked out full-force with elegant decorations, soft floral embellishments, and stunning crystal sculptures. The albino peacocks Harry had never actually seen but had been told resided there were out and about for all to see, strolling through the lantern filled grounds. They were beautiful.
“Are you alright?” Tom asked gently, pausing before the large double doors.
“Yeah.” Harry fidgeted, but he squared his shoulders determinately. If he was going to present himself in front of literally everybody important, he wasn't going to screw it up and embarrass Tom. If everybody hated him, that was fine, but Tom? Harry would rather die than ruin Tom's good standing. Maybe that was a bit dramatic of him, but Harry was a dramatic person, okay?
Tom pushed the doors open and smiled encouragingly. Harry stepped inside, blinking in surprise when he found Malfoy and his family standing at the top of a grand staircase that no doubt led down to the source of all that bustle and noise Harry could suddenly hear. They were a stunning line-up standing together like that.
Lucius Malfoy was exactly the same as Harry remembered him, platinum hair and sharp features, but his expression was softer than Harry had ever associated with the man. Perhaps without becoming a Death Eater, without Voldemort looming over him his whole life, Lucius Malfoy was a kinder person than Harry remembered him being.
Narcissa Malfoy, once a Black like Sirius, was much changed from Harry's memory. He'd only seen her a handful of times, and he'd never spoken to her. She had soft features with a heart shaped face, and it seemed Draco inherited her soft grey eyes. The grey eyes were one of the things Harry most associated with the Black family - Sirius and Regulus had those eyes too.
“Welcome to Malfoy Manor.” Lucius said, nodding his head to Harry and then Tom. “Blessed Yule.”
“Blessed Yule.” Tom gently rested a hand between Harry's shoulder blades and led him forward. “Harry, this is Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy. Our esteemed hosts this evening.”
“Nice to meet you.” Harry said, praying he didn't sound as nervous as he felt.
“We've heard a lot about you.” Narcissa said softly, smiling at Harry and then her son. “Draco writes about you often.”
“All good things.” Malfoy said quickly, sending his mother a look. Harry almost laughed.
“I'm glad to hear it.” Harry said.
“You never did introduce him to us, Tom.” Lucius said, prompting. “Who is your companion?” Instead of answering, Tom looked to Harry. He smiled encouragingly, giving Harry the choice of how he'd like to be addressed. For a moment Harry was struck with indecision, but it passed surprisingly quickly.
“I'm Harry.” Harry said finally, “Harry Potter-Gaunt.” He saw the moment the name clicked in their heads, all three of them going very still. Lucius recovered first.
“Well, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mister Potter-Gaunt.” He said, “Enjoy the party.”
“Uh, thanks.” Harry gave him a wobbly smile.
“Thank you.” Tom offered the Malfoys a winning smile before heading down the stairs with Harry at his side. “If I may, what fueled that choice?” Tom asked him quietly.
“I don't know.” Harry said softly, “It just felt right.” Tom smiled.
“I'm glad.” He said, and led Harry around the loop in the staircase and down into the Hall.
As they descended the steps Harry nearly gaped at the grandeur of it all. He remembered how large Malfoy Manor was, but when he was there it had been completely taken over by Death Eaters and Harry only felt cold harshness. But this version was open, warm, and full of light. Harry could see why Malfoy loved it so much.
Also, there was a crowd of reporters with large cameras and bright flashes. Tom waved, smiling gently, so Harry did his best to smile too. He wasn't completely sure it worked, but he really did try.
As they reached the bottom, Harry caught sight of Hadrian in the crowd. Immediately he perked up, looking up at Tom.
“Go on.” Tom huffed, amused. “Have some fun, alright?”
“Thanks.” Harry grinned, then made his way through the crowd towards Hadrian. He was near the back of the room, standing with Lisa, Nott, Anthony, and, surprisingly, Susan Bones. Hadrian waved brightly as Harry joined them.
“Harry! You came!” Hadrian pulled him into a tight hug, making Harry laugh. “I wasn't sure you would.”
“Only for a little while.” Harry said, grinning. “It's good to see you.”
“Likewise.” Hadrian grinned back at him.
“Nice to see you, Harry.” Nott nodded to him. “I was surprised you didn't accompany Hadrian. Who did you arrive with?”
“Oh, I came with Tom.” Harry said.
“And who might ‘Tom’ be?” Nott looked to Hadrian, prompting. Both Harry and Hadrian blinked blankly at him for a moment.
“Harry, you're supposed to say the full thing.” Hadrian nudged him, clearly on the verge of laughter. “Tell him who you came with.”
“Oh, sorry.” Harry laughed awkwardly. “I came with Tom Riddle. The, you know, Minister for Magic.”
“I see.” Nott tilted his head, a brown curl falling across his eyes. “How interesting… So the article in the Daily Prophet was not complelety false, then.”
“Say that again.” Hadrian said sharply, eyeing him. "I dare you." Nott just held his hands up innocently.
“Message received.” Nott said.
“I saw the article too.” Susan spoke up, “I feel so bad for the Potters. Those reporters had no right speaking about your family that way.”
“Thank you.” Hadrian smiled at her, “My Dad is going to have an interview next week addressing it. Defamation of character is a crime, and if a public apology is not issued in a timely manner there will be legal consequences.”
“Why am I not surprised?” Anthony smirked. “I knew you got that vindictive streak from somewhere, figures it'd be your dad.”
“Actually, the majority of it comes from my Mom.” Hadrian said, but the emotion in his voice had faded. It made Harry's heart hurt knowing he'd tainted Hadrian's view of his mom, even unintentionally.
“Speaking of Mrs. Potter, she looks stunning tonight.” Lisa said quickly, gesturing across the hall. “She has such beautiful hair.” Harry turned and saw she was standing with James, who had one hand on her waist, and they were surrounded by both reporters and Ministry officials. James was grinning, gesticulating with one hand enthusiastically, with Lily occasionally chatting in as well. It was clear to Harry why they were so loved by the public - or, they were. Before Harry entered the picture and messed everything up.
“She does.” Hadrian agreed. “This Old Customs theme really suits her, and the majority of people here.”
“It was a rather good choice, wasn't it?” Malfoy joined them, Greengrass just beside him.
“I must confess, this year's Ball wins out against ours last year.” Greengrass sighed, “Mama really did have the best vision for it, but the public just did not get the memo.”
“I'm glad we agree.” Malfoy said. There was a tiny bit of triumph in his voice, but the majority of it was soft pride. He really loved his family.
“So… Harry…” Greengrass gave him her attention, gently twirling a strand of her blonde hair, perfectly curled into spiral ringlets. “I didn't see you arrive. You wouldn't happen to be escorted by the Minister For Magic tonight, would you?”
“Um, yeah.” Harry shifted a little, unsure. “Tom brought me.”
“How quaint.” Greengrass giggled, “It's cute you're trying so hard to be one of us. The effort is something to be admired, especially when you were able to snag someone as important as our Minister For Magic.”
“I–”
“How's our dear Pansy?” Hadrian asked, stepping in front of Harry with a pretty smile. “I haven't seen her tonight, which is a real shame.” Greengrass faltered.
“She's unwell at the moment.” Greengrass replied blankly. “Nothing serious.”
“She checked into St. Mungo's two days ago.” Malfoy said, wincing when Greengrass elbowed him in the ribs.
“A shame.” Hadrian clicked his tongue.
“What happened?” Susan asked, eyes wide. “I didn't know she was sick.”
“She ingested Angel's Trumpet.” Malfoy said, “It seems to have been an accident at home. They have a large array of Potions ingredients on hand at their Manor, and it's most likely Pansy accidentally came into contact with it without realising.”
“Merlin! Is she still alive??” Susan had gone flat pale, and for good reason. Even Nott was stunned speechless. Angel's Trumpet was one of the deadliest plants known to wizardkind, capable of killing a person with even the smallest of doses.
“Well, it seemed she also came in contact with a bezoar at the same time.” Malfoy glanced at Hadrian, then quickly away. Hadrian just smiled. “A lucky coincidence.”
“Lucky indeed.” Hadrian nodded. “I imagine it saved her life.”
“A bezoar can cure Angel's Trumpet poisoning?” Susan said, “I didn't know that.”
“Amazing isn't it? The capabilities of a bezoar. They can cure pretty much any poisoning.” Hadrian said, smiling angelically. “Though, with Angel's Trumpet, it can only do so much. What dear Pansy’s no doubt experiencing happens to be the aftereffects - terrible business, lasts about two weeks.”
“She'll miss the start of school.” Susan realised, “That's awful! We learn a lot that week, the Professors tend to throw stuff at us quickly to make up for how much time we had off during Break.”
“Truly terrible.” Hadrian agreed, nodding solemnly.
“Oh, excuse me.” Susan courtesy to them a little, nodding to Malfoy. “My mother is signalling me. I hope to see you again later.” Harry blinked in surprise at the sentence - Susan's mother was killed by Death Eaters in Harry's world, so the thought that she actually had parents was startling.
“I'd better follow Bones’ example and go greet some of the other guests.” Greengrass’ smile was now fixed and plastic. “Good day.” She then fled rather quickly.
“You are a terrifying person, Hadrian.” Nott said, eyeing Hadrian.
“Did you ever wonder otherwise?” Hadrian said sweetly.
“I figured you had a hand in that.” Malfoy muttered lowly, “She happened to eat a deadly poison at the exact same time as the cure? Coincidences like that just don't happen.”
“How'd you manage it?” Nott asked, eyes narrowed. “And from afar, no less. So many things could've gone wrong. You might've killed her.”
“I don't make mistakes like that.” Hadrian said simply, “As for the ‘how,’ you'd best keep your mind clear and your curiosity suppressed.”
“You got it boss.” Nott grinned slyly.
“Good.” Hadrian said simply. Then he turned to Harry. “Why don't we go say hi to Tom?”
“Sure.” Harry, who was still internally processing that Hadrian nearly killed a fellow student solely because she hated Harry, just nodded.
“Come on, he's over there.” Hadrian threaded their fingers together and led him through the crowd, gently avoiding people who stared too heavily upon seeing them.
“I heard you tend to go a bit overboard when it comes to the people you care about.” Harry murmured, “I can see what they mean.”
“I wouldn't call it overboard.” Hadrian hummed, “And really it's not all that bad. I ensured she ate them together, which made it impossible to be fatal. I gave her the equivalent to a mild anaphylactic reaction. She'll be fine.”
“So… it was just to scare her?”
“It was a reminder.” Hadrian corrected. “They've apparently forgotten what happens when other people don't respect my people.” He paused, looking at Harry. He smiled, soft yet sharp at the same time. “There was a time when everybody was on the same page, things that went without saying. Never cheat a Malfoy, never cross a Black, and never disrespect a Potter. It seems they've forgotten, and a small reminder never hurts.”
“I see.” Harry then wondered if every fancy pureblood line had a little jingle or something, or if it was just a select few.
“Ah, there's Tom.” Hadrian said brightly. Still held by the hand, Harry was tugged along to where Tom was standing by the wall. “Hello Tom, thanks for bringing Harry tonight.”
“Harry actually made the decision.” Tom smiled. “Are you having a good time?”
“I suppose so.” Harry couldn't really decide, considering he'd only been there for ten minutes and those minutes had been a whirlwind he barely kept up with. “You?”
“It's exactly as I expected it to be.” Tom said. Harry didn't really know how to interpret that, so he just nodded.
“Minister Riddle.” A man trotted up to them with greedy eyes, looking between Harry, Hadrian and Tom with over-acted excitement. “A moment of your time, if you please. I'm from the Daily Prophet, and I had a few questions–”
“I'd prefer to have interviews done in private, unless it's a public speaking event.” Tom cut in calmly, “And this is not such an event. It's a party, one hosted by the esteemed Malfoy family.”
“Oh this wouldn't be an interview!” The man said quickly, “I just wanted to ask if one of these boys is your ward, the one called Harry.”
“Um, that's me.” Harry raised his hand a bit weakly. Immediately the man's focus was on him.
“Pleasure to meet you!” The man offered his hand enthusiastically. “I'm Eddie Barrow.”
“I'm Harry.” Harry said slowly, shaking his hand.
“Would that be Harry Potter?” Barrow was practically salivating, which was unnerving. Harry gave Tom a sidelong look, to which Tom just tilted his head. He knew it meant Tom would go with whatever Harry needed, which gave Harry the courage to answer.
“Actually, it's Harry Potter-Gaunt.” Harry said as firmly as he could muster, “I'm a distant cousin of both Tom and the Potters.”
“Cousins? Oh my.” Barrow said, eyes wide. “I did wonder, only, if you, or how you ended up–”
“I think Lucius is making an announcement.” Tom put a hand on Harry's shoulder, interrupting Barrow’s stumbled sentence. “He deserves our full attention, I'd say. It was lovely meeting you, Mister Barrow.”
“Likewise, Minister!” Barrow scrambled out of the way as Tom stepped around him, leading both boys closer to the stairs where Lucius was indeed raising a glass for attention.
“What was that about?” Hadrian nudged him, “Did you and Tom decide that's the cover you're going with?”
“Huh?” Harry blinked. “You mean nobody told you?”
“Told me what?”
“That we're cousins.” Harry said, “For real.”
“What!?”
“Thank you all for coming.” Lucius’ voice rang through the hall, amplified magically for all to hear. “Another Solstice, another year, another Ball. We keep up this great tradition so we do not forget our roots, honouring the old holidays the way our ancestors did. It is an honour to host such a great event this year, and it is a pleasure to have you all attend the festivities. The Solstice rituals will proceed in two hours, of which anyone over the age of seventeen will be welcome to participate in. Those underage may stay here in the hall and mingle. Lastly, I would like to invite Sirius Black up to speak.”
The hall erupted in cheers, and Sirius marched up to stand with Lucius on the stairs. They shook hands, Sirius grinning widely while Lucius smiled more politely.
“Thank you, Lucius.” Sirius said, then addressed the crowd. “Next year the Ball will be hosted by the Black family, of which we have a wide variety here today. The Solstice will be the 21st of December next year, and invitations will be sent in early September around Start-of-Term. I hope to see all of you there, because it'll be a blast!”
Harry was clapping along with everyone else until Hadrian snagged him by the arm, gently but firmly, and led him towards the back of the hall.
“Okay, what the hell d'you mean we're cousins?” Hadrian asked. He looked angry, but excited at the same time. He looked torn and unsure. Harry winced.
“It's kind of a long story…”
Harry spent the next fifteen minutes retelling the whole mess that happened two days prior, trying not to skip anything because Hadrian was the type to notice that. Harry caught him all up to speed, though sometimes having to pause when people came over to say hello or chat. Whenever that happened, Hadrian politely excused them both and pulled Harry away to a different wall or empty spot to continue.
It took maybe a solid half hour for Harry to stumble his way through the whole story, starting from when Snape stormed into Riddle Manor all the way to when Tom Apparated them home. Hadrian just seemed stunned beyond words.
“This makes no sense, but so much sense at the same time.” Hadrian muttered, “I can't believe nobody said anything!”
“I really thought Lily and James would tell you.” Harry said awkwardly, “Sorry.”
“Well I knew something had changed, that much was obvious when Dad came home alone saying Mum was spending the night with Uncle Severus.” Hadrian blew out a breath, brows furrowed. “To think they'd hide something like this from me…”
“Maybe they assumed I'd tell you.” Harry suggested, “It would make sense.”
“I suppose.” Hadrian said. He sighed, rubbing his forehead tiredly. “Man. This is a lot.”
“Yeah, I get it.” Harry agreed. “It's a lot to take in.”
“Especially for you, I'd imagine.” Hadrian took his hand, offering him a smile. “I hope you know this doesn't change anything. You'll always be my brother.”
“Thanks.” Harry smiled back at him, “Thank you for being the brother I never knew I needed.”
Hadrian pulled him into a warm hug, and Harry melted into it knowing he had one person who loved him unequivocally in this world. And just maybe, if Tom was telling the truth, that number would go up to two.