"That went really well, Potter," Professor Davis said, clapping him on the back. "You've finally gotten the control and level of detail needed in your closing spells. I'll send off your evaluation immediately, and if you don't have any others to do today, you can head on out," she added as they made their way towards the locker rooms. Harry, for the one designated for trainees and her the staff rooms. Harry's movements were slow and uncoordinated as he removed his robes and stepped into the shower. He tried to let the stress of the day melt away as he scrubbed. It was almost six, and he needed his energy tonight for the celebration plans Nolan had hinted at when he suggested they meet for diner. Anticipation coiled in his gut. Things were coming together. His hard work was going to pay off, and for once, he would have accomplished something because he wanted to, not because he had to. He was surrounded by people he could share his success with. His footsteps were considerably lighter as he made his way out of the shower.
"You look like your last eval went well!" Charles stated once Harry had reached the lockers. He just shrugged, going for noncommittal. Charles rolled his eyes, "Davis has worked with you for two whole years to get you where you need to be. It probably went perfect," He added, shoving Harry affectionately. "We'll see in a few weeks," Harry responded hopefully. "Hey Lauren, excited for America?" He asked, looking over to a petite blonde woman and changing the subject. "Oh yeah, all that sun in LA," Charles added, sitting and sliding down the bench towards her. "If I can get outside." She sighed. "The resident program is intense," She concluded, looking slightly apprehensive. "What about you two? Have you decided where you'll go yet?" She asked. "I got Mungo's under Jackson," Charles told her. "Trauma?" She asked. "He's one of the best healers in the field!" Charles beamed at Lauren's praise; Harry rolled his eyes internally. Watching these two go around each other for the past two years had become infuriating, and he hoped being apart would force one of them to say SOMETHING!
"I have my meeting with the ministry tomorrow," Harry told the air, his two friends seemingly forgetting he was there as they praised and fawned over each other. Harry took a split second to wonder at his ability to always end up the third wheel in friendships when his wand startled them all, buzzing loudly. "Oh, bollocks got to hurry" Harry jumped up to continue getting dressed. "Big plans?" Lauren asked when she noticed he was pulling on a pair of his nicer robes that he usually hated wearing. "Not big, just dinner with Nolan," Harry feigned. "He wanted me to meet him at Fire 45 tonight," he added, smiling knowingly at Lauren. "Oh, that place is fancy! Do you think he's finally decided moving in is worth it with you starting residency?" She looked excited for Harry. "I think so," Harry said excitedly. "We've finally been talking about the future and what I want, and I see him in my future. Plus, it'll be easier to spend time together with us both working so much." Harry smiled and looked around the room, "Everything's coming together," he said happily, doing up the last of his robes, waving goodbye, and going towards the Apparition point.
Harry kept his head down as he made his way towards the restaurant, debating whether a Notice-Me-Not was necessary. A few groups were milling about, but he didn't want to miss Nolan. They hadn't planned a meeting spot. Harry was mentally kicking himself; he should've remembered to pick one, as Nolan always seemed to forget. He was instantly on alert and reaching for his wand when he was roughly grabbed by the arm and pulled towards the center of the street. Nolan's reprimand about him almost being late echoed through his ears as he tried to get his breathing back to normal and still his rapid heart. "Stop being so stiff," his boyfriend chastised as he pulled him towards the front of Fire 45. The sign lit up the front of the building. Harry's eyes caught sight of a Prophet reporter. But before he could get his partner's attention, he was being pulled towards the entrance. "Can we get a picture!" Harry heard shouted in his direction. "Of course!" Nolan answered, pulling Harry against him before he could even protest. Harry stood still and uncomfortable for a few seconds and then tried his best to get inside quickly without making it apparent he was fleeing.
"I'm going to run to the bathroom really quick," Nolan said once they were safely inside. Harry stood in the lobby trying to calm his already frayed nerves and even out his breathing again. The last few minutes since he left the locker room felt like a whirlwind, and the hairs on the back of his neck and a slight niggling feeling in his brain had him on edge. Harry chalked it up to nerves from his evaluations and studying stress from the past few weeks and looked around the place. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Nolan, head bent and talking with the reporter in a back corner. The niggling feeling was back. Nolan then looked up and caught his eye and immediately broke into a smile and made his way back to Harry. "He was asking for more photos, but I told him no," Nolan assuaged before Harry could even ask what their conversation was about.
Once again pulling himself into the present, Harry made his way to see about their table. He quietly got in line behind an older couple dressed up and talking about their anniversary, the women laughing and asking if they'd still be in love in another 50 years. Harry smiled to himself, imagining a 50th anniversary and being loved as wholly as the women in front of him clearly were. He turned to grab his boyfriend's hand as he thought about the conversation he hoped would happen during dinner and how happy the two of them would be. Nolan's gasp brought him out of his daydreaming, and he looked over quickly. "Oh, Harry, look, it's your friend Oliver!" Nolan exclaimed loudly, causing a man to look their way. Harry was beyond confused as he was once again pulled in a specific direction after his boyfriend. "Oh, it's SO nice to meet you, Oliver!" Nolan exclaimed, grasping the man's shoulder like they were old friends. "Oh, uh," The man stated, looking startled and a little confused. But at the accent, Harry immediately realized the man was Oliver Wood. He hadn't seen him in a few years. Wood was on the arm of a woman with long black hair who looked just as confused as the rest of them. "Oh! Hey Harry," Oliver said, clearly realizing what was happening before the rest of them. "Hello," Harry greeted but was cut off as a camera flashed, and the reporter was back, taking pictures of the quartet. "Harry was just telling me the other day about your pre-game speeches when you played together!" Nolan was telling Oliver. Harry barely registered it as he was trying to figure out how to get the reporter to fuck off without causing a scene as people had begun to notice the commotion. Nolan told Oliver and his date about how much he loved to talk to Harry about Quidditch. He went on about how they would listen to the Puddlemere games, and both agreed that Oliver had been playing great this season. "Wait, what?" Harry heard himself ask. The thing was, despite Nolan being a professional Quidditch player, they never talked about the actual game. Or well, not since their first few dates when they would discuss tactics and revel in their similarities in interest and love for the sport. And they sure didn't have time to listen to matches with all the studying Harry had been doing lately; in fact, he'd barely had time to do anything. He would answer Hermione and Ron's and his other friends' owls with pleas to take care of himself, but that was it. He hadn't actually seen Nolan much at all the past month or so. And they never really discussed Hogwarts, as Nolan had been homeschooled out of the country when his parents had moved after the first war. So, Oliver never really came up. Then it hit Harry like a ton of bricks. Oliver had come up when Nolan had learned Harry knew him and had declined when Nolan asked for an introduction to help him move up in the sport. After all, Oliver was one of the best captains and expected to become a coach in the coming years. Nolan hadn't mentioned it again, so Harry had forgotten. As Harry quickly processed this information, the nagging feeling in his brain increased, and the damn reporter took yet another picture. He looked over to tell the guy off, and that was when he realized he recognized him as well. The same reporter seemed to always be the one to get pictures when Harry wasn't expecting it. Even Nolan and his first kiss had been captured. The photographs had been splashed all over some paper declaring their relationship for the world to see. Harry recalled he hadn't been too sure of Nolan at the time but didn't want to end things and look bad. And that had been 8 months ago. Now, this guy's pictures were in the Daily Prophet and always taken when he was with Nolan. Harry's blood began to boil; he took in the uncomfortable stances of Oliver and his date as his brain quickly put together information and realizations.
Harry's mind was made up with the quick decision-making and determination that could only come from being a pawn in war. "Sorry guys, but we were actually just leaving," Harry said, grabbing Nolan's arm and ignoring his confused protest. "Have a great night, and owl me so we can catch up!" He added to Oliver as he dragged his boyfriend towards the exit. "Harry, what's gotten into you?" Nolan began looking over at Harry and started to pull out of his grasp. Something in Harry's demeanor made him stop talking, however. Harry discreetly pulled out his wand and cast a Notice-Me-Not on the pair as he led Nolan behind the building and away from prying eyes, and hopefully, reporters.
Once Harry had stopped walking, Nolan wheeled around to face him. "What was that about?" he accused Harry. "You're ruining our celebration!" he added, exasperated. "Celebration of what?" Harry spat back. "You haven't even asked how today went or any of my evaluations. For all you know, I failed everything," Harry added bitterly. Nolan just scoffed. "It's you," he said, rolling his eyes. "Of course, they're going to pass you. I never doubted that" he said, reaching for Harry's hands in what Harry thought was supposed to come off as loving. "Oh great, you never doubted I would pass?" Harry laughed, sounding slightly hysterical. "But not because of how hard I've been working, which you wouldn't even know about, but because of a war you weren't even a part of," he ranted. "How could I have been this stupid?" he said to himself.
"You planned it all, didn't you?" Harry accused, finally looking Nolan in the eye. "Okay, fine, yes," Nolan admitted, throwing his hands up in mock surrender. "I found out Wood would be here and thought running into him would be a nice surprise for you," he sighed. "Oh, yeah, sure. Nice for ME," Harry responded, not believing a word. "You know I'm usually better at weeding out people like you," he added, talking more to himself. "Partnering with an unknown reporter from a gossip rag was a good touch, though," He pointed out. "Less suspicious on your part," he added. "I don't know what you're talking about," Nolan began, but Harry quickly cut him off. "All the signs were there. Not caring about seeing my friends but making sure to mention the famous ones in press conferences. Oh, and commenting on your plans with me after games but never actually making any. Every time I would doubt our relationship or bring up being unsatisfied, you'd plan a date, and low and behold, we'd end up in the papers with articles about how in love and happy we are! And for some strange reason, I would see them and believe them. Stringing me along for months without making any commitment. And every time my name came out of your mouth, your fan ratings would go up, and you'd get more playtime." Harry ranted, shaking his head and pacing. Nolan started to argue or explain, but Harry wasn't listening and didn't care. He had been manipulated and used enough times in his life by now to know he wasn't going to hear anything new. He let his anger show on his face and hardened his stance. "Stay away from my friends and me, and don't talk about us or this sham of a relationship ever again," he commanded. He had slipped into his Auror voice as Ron called it when they had been in training, and what Ginny referred to as intimidating Harry. "If you try to contact anyone connected to me or try to use me or any of them to further your career or yourself, I will ruin you," he added. "Do I make myself clear?" he asked. Nolan looked deflated and had given up any pretense of arguing. "Fine," Nolan sighed. "I did care about you," he said quietly, looking down and rightfully ashamed. "It wasn't ALL a sham, or just for my career," he added in an almost whisper. Harry knew he was telling the truth, and when he was less angry and hurt, that fact would bring him a small amount of comfort. But for now, Harry just wanted to be angry at being used and not think about the part of Nolan that was currently hurting. So instead of responding, he just nodded and immediately apparated away.
"Harry?" Ron called out after the pop alerted him to Harry's arrival. "Is that you?" he rounded his way through the house and into the kitchen, where his friend stood cleaning up after dinner. "I wasn't expecting you; do you want me to make you a plate?' Ron asked, gesturing towards the leftovers he was currently packing away. "No, but thanks," Harry replied, sitting at the counter with a sigh. He took a moment to relish the comforting space of the kitchen and the fact that he still had Hermione and Ron by his side. Knowing that he would always be able to show up unannounced whenever needed and they would always be willing to listen meant everything to him. In the first few years after the war, he had relied on them extensively and had spent countless hours in this kitchen just trying to get through the day. Neither of his friends ever complained or made him feel like a burden. It was only mentioned when he and Ron agreed it would be best if Harry started using the entryway as his entry point. He and Hermione were trying for a baby and showing up in the middle of the living room might not be the best idea.
"Is something wrong?" Ron asked, giving him the searching, knowing look he wore far too often these days. As he opened his mouth to unleash the insanity of his night, he was cut off. "Is that Harry?" Hermione called, rounding the corner, and coming into the kitchen. "Ah, Harry. It's good you're here; I was just about to owl you," she said, sitting down next to Harry. "I talked to Roberts today about the mediwizard position," she started. "Yeah?" Harry asked, brightening up at the prospect of his night going better. "Well, um," Hermione began to say, looking a bit uncomfortable. "Listen, you were edged out by another candidate from France," she said. "What? No...I did everything that I could. My resume was impeccable!" Harry demanded. "I know. As Roberts put it, this other guy comes with less attention and history." She explained with a grimace. "History what?" Harry scoffed in outrage. "This is because I didn't stay during Auror training, isn't it?" he asked, anger starting to come to the surface. "I think that's only part of it," Hermione told him. "But having you around as an Auror medic will draw attention off of the Aurors and onto you and more attention to the department as a whole. Only this time you won't be under his command," she told him, rolling her eyes. "It's absurd he's already saying he's picked a candidate when you haven't even interviewed yet." Hermione seemed almost as angry about this as Harry currently was. "Don't get too down; I will make some calls and look into it. We will find you a position worthy of your talents," she reassured her friend, squeezing his arm for comfort. "Hermione's right," Ron chimed in. "You don't have to work with the Aurors or even the Ministry at all," Ron started. "There's plenty of other medic positions around." This was a discussion they had had many times over the years, so Harry quickly cut him off. Harry stood up and grabbed his things. "I'm gonna go." He stated in a bit of a huff. "I just, I can't have this conversation after the night I just had," he added, walking out of the kitchen. "Ron, Harry will be fine working with your department. We need to support him," he heard Hermione chastise. He rolled his eyes, knowing Ron was just saying how he worried about him and didn't want the environment to put him back in the dark place he was during training and all the other reasoning he had heard before. Ron wasn't trying to be unsupportive, Harry knew. Ron walked over as Harry reached the door. "Harry.." he started. "Look, Ron, I just need to be alone," Harry pleaded, cutting him off. "I just want to make sure you're okay?" Ron asked, giving Harry that knowing look again. "Okay? Yeah, I'm great!" Harry laughed sarcastically. "Everything I've worked towards for the past few years is gone," he stated. "You never know; maybe it's a good thing?" Ron tried to console. "Oh yeah, a good thing," Harry scoffed. "As if being famous and the Chosen One didn't ruin my life enough as it is. Now it's making me not get the job I worked for years for, AND I have to put up with people like Nolan spending months pretending to care about me just to use my name and notoriety for themselves," he ranted, anger seeping through every word. "Bollocks!" Ron exclaimed once Harry was done. "When did you find out about him?" he asked, having been down this road too many times for either of their likings. "Tonight," Harry sighed, letting go of taking his anger out on his best friend. Ron pulled him into a quick hug. "Listen, mate, it's going to be all right; you'll see. We've faced much tougher things than Roberts with an inflated ego, and Hermione will sort out the bureaucracy stuff. And Nolan will be getting a nice package of Weasley merchandise in the next few days," he reassured. "Ginny's been working on some new items with George, I'm sure will do the job." Harry chuckled at the thought, remembering how Ginny had been the first on his side when they had broken up and started dating other people. She was always on the lookout for people name-dropping or bragging about dating him. She and Nolan had never gotten along, but everyone had assumed that was due to them being on opposing Quidditch teams. He was sure she would get a kick out of making a care package to send this particular ex. "Thanks," Harry said, giving Ron a quick squeeze before heading home.
Harry decided the following day he wouldn't spend any time feeling sorry for himself. Years of mind healing had taught him that it just wasn't healthy for him to sit around doing nothing. He had always been a person of action, and this was no different. And Nolan certainly wasn't the first person who had attempted to use his fame. He knew he would need to grieve the relationship he thought he had but also knew the reality of who Nolan was didn't match that. He made his favorite breakfast and then decided he wasn't going to stay cooped up in his flat. He decided to take the day and visit Grimmauld Place. After the war, Harry had decided living there was too depressing. A year later, Molly had mentioned wanting to get involved in helping war orphans as the wizarding world didn't have much of a system, and she was bored with an empty nest. Harry had immediately offered the use of the house, and she and Kreacher now ran the place. Harry was always amazed at how the home that had once been a dark and dreary place was now filled with more love and light than he thought ever possible. On days like today, he felt he needed it. He grabbed a bag of candy he kept on hand for the younger kids, as the rest would be at Hogwarts, and headed to the floo.
Spending the day in the garden and teaching the kids how to fly was exactly what he needed. He had been greeted by screaming, happy children the second he walked through the door, and Molly had been thankful for the break. He was currently sitting in the kitchen with Luna, who ran the art classes with the kids a few times a week. "Would you like milk?" Luna asked as she was pouring their tea. Harry jumped a little at the interruption from his thoughts. "Oh. I've interrupted something important, haven't I?" she asked in her usual dreamy voice. "Would you rather be alone to think about what's troubling you?" she asked, starting to gather her things to leave the room. "No, it's fine," Harry assured her. Luna always seemed to be able to tell when he was troubled in a way that no one else had. He often wondered if she was a seer or an empath to some extent. She never judged or made him feel like he was wrong for having certain feelings. She was also Harry's best person when he wanted to vent and talk about a problem. Hermione and the Weasleys and many of the other Gryffindors focused on fixing the problem, while Luna tended to just listen. He had come to value this immensely over the years. "Nolan and I broke up," he told her with a sigh. "And that was the better part of my day yesterday," he added, letting his head fall into his hands and onto the table. Luna patted his arm. "Do you want to tell me about it?" she asked softly. "Just more of the same from the past few years," Harry said, looking at her. "I think I was just too desperate to be with someone. I ignored all the signs. He was clearly in it for the fame." He shook his head sadly. "Wanting to believe people are good is something you shouldn't feel bad about," she told him. "You'll find someone who loves you the way all of our friends do. I can tell you're upset about it not working out, but I don't think that's all of it," She gently prodded. Harry smiled slightly and cursed himself for being so readable to her.
They had lost touch when he had been in Auror training; well, Harry had really cut contact with everyone as he had become more and more miserable. After the war, he had been in a dark place and slowly realized the Aurors were not something he was cut out for. He had become more and more biter watching Ron succeed. Most days, he was grateful Ron and Hermione had been the only ones to witness him at his worst. They had stuck by him and not let him push them away and, together with his healer, had pulled him back into the light. He had then decided to become a healer himself and fulfill his dream of helping people by joining the team assigned to the Auror department. It was the perfect way to get what he wanted while staying sane. He wasn't sure how to explain to Luna how important it was to him to be on that team. In the end, looking at Luna sitting patiently beside him and waiting to see if he would open up was all the push he needed. He started at the beginning and told her all about quitting Auror training and how it was coming back to torment him and costing him his spot in the program. Luna listened patiently to the whole story, only stopping to get them more tea and to shoo some wandering kids out of the kitchen with snacks. "Well, after that night, you should join us in our painting session today. It's a good way to get your feelings out," Luna suggested. Harry let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He had been waiting for Luna to say something about how it wasn't the end of the world or something to that effect. Instead, she had surprised him yet again by just being herself and somehow giving him exactly what he needed. He laughed a little and pulled her into a quick hug. "That sounds lovely, thanks," he told her when he let go. "Come on, let's go set up in the dining room," she told him, pulling him off of his stool and out of the room. An hour later, Harry found himself rounding up children and vanishing paint off surfaces it really didn't belong on while Luna cast drying charms on their works. She began hanging them on the wall as Molly rushed the younger kids to naps and the older ones to lessons. "Yours is very nice," Luna informed him once they had cleaned everything and she was adding his painting to the wall next to the kids'. "It's a blue blob," Harry informed her, laughing. "Well, maybe your brain is telling you to eat some blueberries," she said with a shrug. Harry informed her it was supposed to be a mountain with a lake. She squinted at his painting for a few seconds before informing him that it was still a blueberry. "A quiet, tranquil lake seems nice," she decided as they finished putting up the paintings. "I'd want some peace and quiet if it were me, after everything you've been through," She stated absentmindedly. "What do you mean?" Harry asked. "Well, you had school and the war. Then jumped straight into training, which you said was a bit horrible. Then you've spent the past 4 years studying and working non-stop to become a healer. That's a lot," she said, looking over at him. "Oh" was all he managed. "I took a year off and went to watch Heffalumps for a bit after the war," she told him. "It was nice." Harry sat with this information for the rest of the evening as they made dinner for the kids and even when he was back at home. Taking a break hadn't even occurred to him before. He immediately liked the idea but was also a bit uncomfortable. He decided to discuss it with Professor Davis in the morning to see how it would affect his career if he took a break before joining a program.
After talking things through with his mentor and mind healer, they decided taking a total break wouldn't be the best thing for him. After all, he was still a man of action and tended to fall into depression with nothing to do. But she also thought he did need some peace and a change of pace. Professor Davis found a placement in a small wizarding community in Shetland Islands that desperately needed a doctor. It wasn't trauma or fast-paced, but even Hermione thought it would be a good idea, so he accepted. So Harry found himself a few weeks later standing in the Floo office at the Ministry, having said goodbye to his friends and ready to move to a tiny town he had never heard of. He took a breath and reminded himself it was only temporary and that Hermione would get his rightful Auror healer spot figured out.
Harry made his way through the line, looking for the wizard to take him to the town. In his letter correspondence with the hospital, he had been told it was a ways away from the Floo terminal, and they would be providing transportation and his lodgings. He saw a short wizard that reminded him of Flitwick holding a sign with his name on it. After introducing himself and finding out the man’s name was Brigsby, Harry followed him out of the building. He was immediately grateful for his robe's built-in heating and cooling charms as there was snow as far as the eye could see. "How far is the town?" Harry asked. "About 450 km," Brigsby told him as he shrunk down Harry's bags and pulled things out of his pockets. "From here?" Harry asked incredulously. "Yup" was the only response he was given before a broom was thrust into his hands. "Garland's not as adjacent to the Floo as you thought, huh," The wizard told him with a chuckle. "This is not what I signed up for," Harry muttered as he mounted his broom. "Well, that's Garland for you," Brigsby told him. Harry took in the views and tried not to worry too much during the journey. A small town nestled between two mountains sprang up out of nowhere, and they made their descent. The town was covered in snow and, Harry thought, about the size of Diagon Alley. Brigsby showed him the diner and the general store as they walked down the main street to his new lodgings. "What's that place?" Harry asked as they passed the most prominent building he could see. "Oh, that's the shipping business we run for the Ministry," Brigsby told him. "Provides most of the jobs in town." "What's with the decorations?" Harry asked, pointing out the candy canes and snowmen outside the building. "That's Garland for you," Brigsby said with a chuckle. "We take Christmas seriously here, very festive," He added, beaming with pride. "It's October" was the only response Harry could muster; this town was turning out to be a lot more out of his comfort zone than expected.
"Here we are," Brigsby said, pulling Harry towards a cabin. "This is where I'm staying?" Harry asked. "This is it; it's cozy, convenient, and in walking distance of everything," Brigsby beamed. He dismantled the wards and left Harry to settle in and put his own up. "I can make this work," Harry thought, smiling to himself as he looked around the place. It was bigger than his place in London but still had a cozy warm patchwork feel he associated with the Burrow. He went to bed that night optimistic about this experience.
Harry quickly realized his cozy cabin did not come with tea the following day. He decided to remedy this at his first opportunity but got dressed, added in some extra warming charms, and headed to the diner Brigsby had pointed out earlier. Walking in, the first thing he noticed was the holiday décor all around the place. It seemed every business and home in this town was all about Christmas. At least that meant he wouldn't have to go to some party or anything on Halloween. "Good morning! How may I help you?" the witch politely asked as Harry made his way to the counter. "Chai latte, nonfat milk please," Harry answered automatically, wistfully thinking of all the times he had met Hermione at their favorite tea house after work. The lady behind the counter had dropped her smile a bit. "I'm not gonna get that here, am I?" Harry asked, inwardly sighing. Not in London anymore, he thought ruefully. "We have plenty of tea," she told him, reaching below her to pull some out. "All right, I'll have a large to-go, with nonfat milk, and do you have any natural non-sugar sweeteners?" he asked hopefully. "We have one," she told him, handing him the to-go cup. "And regular milk and white sugar," she added, nodding towards the condiment bar. "I could probably rustle up some honey if you really wanted," she said thoughtfully. "Oh no, that's fine. Thank you," Harry said, taking the cup from her and quickly paying. "Don't be afraid of a little fat and sugar," a voice said behind him. He turned to see Brigsby sitting at a table In the back corner. "It'll fatten you up, keep you warm up here," he added with a chuckle. "You wouldn't need fat if you were decent at warming charms," Brigsby's companion said, lifting his head from where he'd been reading papers. The posh voice and shock of bright blonde hair instantly threw Harry back in time. "Malfoy?" he asked incredulously. The blonde's head snapped up the rest of the way to look Harry's way, and, eyes wide with shock, gaped at him. "Potter?" he breathed out.
"Oh good, you've met Healer Harry," Brigsby stated, waving Harry on over, apparently oblivious to the other two's shock and tension. Harry had no choice but to walk around and sit down as people started to look their way. He didn't want to make a wrong impression already. He silently thanked his past self for reaching out and writing to Malfoy after he had testified at the trials. They had made their peace with each other before Harry had spiraled. He had said horrible things about the man when he found out Malfoy and Hermione had become study partners in their 8th year. He didn't like to think about what he would've said to the actual Malfoy had he seen him at the time. He made a small mental note to send Hermione a letter and apologize for treating her so wrongly at the time. He had done it a billion times already but wasn't sure if he had apologized for these particular words. "Uhhh, hi," he said as he sat down. "Did you two meet since your houses are next to each other?" Brigsby asked as he took a bite of his breakfast. "Not exactly," Harry started to say. "YOU'RE the new healer?" Draco asked, cutting him off. "But you were in training when I left London. How did you pass your qualifications? It's only been two years!" He asked again, seemingly still in shock and very confused. "Oh," Harry said, becoming a bit uncomfortable. He didn't like to brag but wanted Malfoy to know he had passed fairly and with a lot of effort. "Uhh, one of my professors took me on as an apprentice over the summers to make sure I caught up. And was able to graduate without the full 4 years." "You did an entire healer's program in just two years? Huh, that's impressive, Potter," Draco said after he had processed the info for a minute. "Last I heard, you were working for the Ministry?" Harry asked. "Oh yeah, Draco here runs our logistics department and is the top performer every year he's been here so far," Brigsby jumped in, sounding delighted. "He's made so many great changes to our system, and the other regions have started copying him. And he even petitioned and got us permission to send the Muggleborn kids pre.." he gushed before Draco quickly cut him off. "It's boring stuff; we don't need to talk about it," he shushed, sending a glare to the small wizard. Harry tried not to let his surprise at Malfoy not wanting to boast or brag show on his face but used his tea to cover just in case. "So how are you liking Garland?" Draco asked him. "Wasn't too thrilled about the ride into town," Brigsby said, laughing. "Yeah, the flight can get chilly even with the charms. "Draco said, trying to be polite. "Well, it was nice to see you both," Harry said, standing up, "but today's my first day, and I don't want to be late."
Harry was thankful the tiny building that would serve as his hospital and office wasn't too far away from the diner. When he met the other people running the place, he was told that the town had been without a healer for quite some time and was making do with the nurses' basic knowledge. The place was soon packed full of patients that needed to be seen, and Harry barely had time to eat lunch, let alone think over his surprise meeting with Malfoy. His first patient was Mr. Jessom, who he helped with a mangy foot. He also admitted an ancient witch for overnight watch. She had been drinking extremely out-of-date potions. He had also probably seen every single child in the town for colds and needed to get their shots up to date. As he walked back to his new cabin, he was exhausted but content with all the people he had been able to help. He saw a familiar head farther up the path and remembered that Brigsby had said he and Malfoy lived next to each other now. He would be spotted any second now and wasn't sure if he should say anything first. "You're just everywhere today, aren't you?" Harry called out in what he thought was a light, casual manner. Malfoy looked his way and waited for Harry to catch up. "Garland's a small place; we'll be running into each other," Draco said, sounding somewhat unsure of himself. "It'll be nice to have a familiar face around," Harry told him reassuringly. "I mean, I took the position for a change, but it's nice to have something to remind me of home," he added thoughtfully. Malfoy nodded in agreement. "So, how was your first day?" he asked him. Harry shook his head a bit as they continued walking together. "Uhh, I mean, I felt good about all the good I did, but there are just too many patients, not enough hands, not enough time. I was supposed to work in the Auror program, not a small hospital like this, so it's a bit overwhelming if I'm honest," Harry explained. "Well, it sounds like you did a lot of good today. I mean, Mr. Jessom would've ignored his foot until it fell off, and Mrs. Alvarez has had that cough from the potions for a month. Who knows what other damage she would've caused if you hadn't helped?" Malfoy praised. "Wow, word travels really fast around this place," Harry said, a little shocked. "Yeah, well, small town, new healer," Malfoy explained. "If it makes you feel any better, everyone is really glad you're here," he added as they reached their cabins. "Thanks, have a good night." Harry waved to Malfoy and made his way inside.
The next day he woke up early, hoping to have some time to eat some actual food. He knew today would be just as busy as before and wasn't sure when he would get lunch or get some groceries. "Good morning, Healer Harry," a woman said as she walked past. Harry jumped in surprise. He was used to people greeting him in the street, but only for the famous thing. Being greeted because of his profession was a new experience. He shrugged it off and kept walking. The man who was coming out of the diner also welcomed him, and when he walked in, Hattie, the witch at the counter, cut him off with a cup of tea before he could even order. "Light milk, and I found some non-sugar sweetener," she told him, beaming. "None of that non-fat stuff yet, but I have it on order. But owls have difficulty getting here, so it'll be a while," she added. "Oh, thank you," Harry said gratefully. "Don't worry about it," she waved him off. "Don't let me keep you. Oh, and here are some pastries for you and the staff," she added, handing him a bag. "If you need lunch later, just have Billie give me a call, and we'll deliver. I'm sure you have another big day ahead of you," she told him as he headed out the door.
Harry noticed upon reaching the hospital that a small plaque had been added to the sign that said "Healer Harry." He wasn't sure how he felt about that. Then he noticed the line out the door of patients waiting to be seen. He looked over at the sign and noticed who was putting it up for the first time. He crept over to Malfoy and asked what he was doing. "Oh, I'm kind of the town handyman, and they wanted a sign, so here I am," Malfoy responded with a shrug. "It looks great, but don't you think it's a little presumptuous?" Harry said, looking around and lowering his voice, "Especially since I don't even know if I'm staying," he added, a little stressed. "It's just a sign; we can take it off whenever you want," Malfoy assured him, calming his nerves. "Besides, you're here right now, right? So no big deal," he added with a smile. Harry nodded, looked at the line in front of his work, took a big breath, and made his way towards the front door. He made a point to smile, nod, and greet everyone he passed. "We'll be right with you," he assured them as he got inside. As soon as he walked in, he saw the waiting room filled with patients and the nurses taking info down. "Billie, there's a line of patients outside," he told his head nurse. "I know, and we've got it covered. The exam rooms are already filled with the highest priority," she assured him with a smile. "All right, I've got tea and pastries from Hattie,' he told her, showing the bag and setting it on the counter. "Let's do this!" he added, taking the first file from Billie and heading towards another busy day. At midday, when he was finally getting to breathe, Brigsby came through the door. "Is everything ok?" Harry asked him. "Oh yeah, I'm just here to invite you to dinner," he insisted. "My wife is an excellent cook, and you're a long way from home, so we thought you'd enjoy a home-cooked meal. We have Draco over every Wednesday, and you'd make a great addition!" It took a bit of coercion, but Harry finally agreed to dinner. Brigsby left after saying hello to the other nurses, and Harry got back to work.
That evening he made his way over to Brigsby’s house. He had arrived early but was warmly greeted by a witch who very much reminded him of Molly as she hugged him warmly and started talking about how skinny he was and how she would be sending him home with food to fatten him up and keep him warm. Despite the new environment and trepidation at having dinner with Malfoy, he felt instantly comfortable and relaxed. She told him Brigsby and Malfoy had been caught up late at work but would be joining them soon. Harry asked if she needed any help with the food, and she gladly accepted the help for a quick batch of cookies as they had time to kill. While they started mixing, Harry took the opportunity to learn a little more about Malfoy and his role in the town. “So Malfoy mentioned something about being a handyman this morning? And Brigsby mentioned he did logistics. I was wondering if you knew more about that. I always assumed he’d end up in potions or some other desk job in school,” Harry told her. Faith laughed as she added flour to their dough. “Oh, he’ll tell you the logistics for the ministry is all paperwork and boring things. But from what I hear, he’s usually very involved and has his hands in everything they do to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible every year. He doesn’t like when we praise him, but we were a small overlooked region, always overshadowed by the Americans and their giant operation,” she added, rolling her eyes. “But Draco has really helped turn things around the past few years and is such a hard worker,” she told him fondly. “And when he first started here, let me tell you, he was quiet as a church mouse!” She laughed. “We needed to get him out of his shell and out of his mood. We know he was involved in some dark things with the war, which I’m sure you know more about than we do. But we try not to worry about that kind of thing here. He was always polite and doing a good job at work. But he still stayed holed up in his cabin and didn’t interact much with anyone. So a few of us around town started asking him for help to fix things or help in small ways here and there. He took to it very well; he’s always very happy to help and give back to the town. He’s really grown to be invaluable to the community, and we cherish him,” she explained. Harry remained quiet and thought about all this news and was a bit sad but not surprised that Malfoy also had a hard time after everything. This new Malfoy he had seen in Garland was different from the boy he knew at school, and he needed some time to wrap his brain around it. They finished icing the cookies, and Faith continued telling him about the town and how it grew up around the Ministry's operations here. The busy season was the end of the year, so they celebrated with a big Christmas festival every year. Brigsby and Malfoy arrived as they finished talking, and the group sat down to a delicious meal.
“Faith, thank you so much for dinner,” Harry told her later as they sat around the table snacking on the cookies. “These are delicious,” Malfoy added next to him. “Oh, thank you,” she told him, smiling. “It’s the least I could do after how much you’ve already helped the people here in Garland,” she said Harry. “Yes, it sounds like things are going well at the hospital,” Brigsby said elatedly. After the string of Healers who had not worked out for one reason or another, it seemed to delight everyone that Harry was handling things so well. “You know one way you could see for yourself is to go in for a checkup,” Faith told Brigsby. He brushed her off, talking about it being their busy season which Draco and Faith quickly shot down as an excuse. “How about we make an appointment for next year sometime,” he asked Harry, to appease his wife. “He might not be here next year; he’s got big plans far from Garland,” Malfoy told him. “You’re leaving already?” Faith asked. “Well, maybe,” Harry responded, slightly uncomfortable. “There’s a big position with the Auror healing team in London I’m going for,” he explained. “See, so you should go in for a check-up soon,” Malfoy urged. “This isn’t a discussion to have over cookies" Brigsby grumbled, and they let the subject go. Harry and Malfoy walked home together, and Harry ended up telling him about Nolan and the awful breakup when asked more about why he left London. Malfoy told him about a few horrible dates he had been on as well. A lot of people were just looking to sleep with a Death Eater. Apparently, one guy even had a fake Dark Mark. The commiseration was nice. All his friends seemed to have a fun time dating, while Harry had all the bad luck. They parted ways with a good night, and Harry went to bed feeling content.
The following day Harry woke feeling refreshed and optimistic. “We need to be as efficient as possible if we want to get a full day of appointments in,” he told Billie, the head nurse, as soon as he walked in and saw the packed waiting room again. “Absolutely,” Billie started to say. She was quickly cut off as the lights went out. “Seriously?” Harry asked as they tested the light and energy charms and found them compromised. “Uhh, I’ll handle this,” she reassured Harry. Harry decided to take the lost time with patients to get some charting done by wand light in his office. After about 40 minutes, his eyes were too tired from all the squinting and paperwork, so he decided to check on Billie. Walking past the break room, he noticed Malfoy with his wand out. “Malfoy? What are you doing here?” he asked, walking into the room. “Huh, oh, fixing the power charms. The connection point is in here,” Draco answered, still seemingly lost in concentration. “Oh, so the town's handyman and logistics guy is also the charms expert?” Harry asked, messing with him. “I have several limited but interconnected talents,” Malfoy quipped back. Harry rolled his eyes. “So, what’s the problem?” he asked. “Well, the systems overloaded. It makes sense. Usually, the clinic has limited hours. And it’s been running all day for a week,” he explained. “Yes, I’m very aware,” Harry laughed, lamenting his long hours. “Now what?” he asked Malfoy, eager to get back to seeing patients. “Well now, if you could aim a Lumos this way, I can cast a few new charms to help,” Malfoy said, slightly challenging with his eyes. “Well, I’ve assisted in hundreds of surgeries, so steady hands are part of the job,” Harry answered, directing his Lumos in the exact place Malfoy had indicated. “Well, excuse me,” Malfoy laughed. “I didn’t know you were that big of a deal around here,” he added, mocking but playful. They worked for a few minutes, Harry moving the light and assisting when Draco needed other spells to fix the energy. Harry was surprised at how well they worked together and that Malfoy was quite funny when their banter was playful and not mean-spirited. “All right, let’s stop you from working all night,” Malfoy said as they almost finished. He waved his wand once more, saying an incantation Harry wasn’t aware of, and the lights and equipment sprang back on. “Yes!” Harry exclaimed, pulling Malfoy into a hug before he knew what he was doing. It was a quick hug, and Draco only froze up for a second. But Harry couldn’t help but feel a little odd as they broke apart, and he was staring straight into grey eyes. “Uhmm. Thank you,” Harry mumbled, trying not to make the charged moment awkward. “Uhh yeah,” Draco said, putting his wand away and mumbling about needing to get back to the office.
The next few weeks passed by quickly, with Harry finally managing to see everyone in town that needed it, and the trickle of patients in the clinic slowed to a more manageable level. Before he knew it, October was almost over. He had been in Garland for over a month. He had gotten a letter from Hermione promising she was still looking into the validity of him not getting the Auror position and asking how his adventure was going. She didn’t seem too surprised at his mention of Malfoy being there as she knew he had gotten a job at what they called the Crinkle department, and she knew it was based out of the middle of nowhere. Harry tried not to get down at all the fun things his friends were writing about and the letters from his healer friends bragging about surgeries and America or Mungo's. He had almost packed a bag to return home one day when he was feeling down. But a minor emergency with a resident had made him change his mind. He was needed here and could stay for now.
Halloween morning was cold and rainy, and Harry was not looking forward to the day. Things always seemed to go wrong for him on this day, and he was too far away to visit his parents' graves this year. He was grumbling around his kitchen, cursing himself for not buying tea since he went to Hattie’s every day, and he wasn’t in the mood for people at the moment, when a sharp knock came from his door. He opened it to find Draco. He hadn’t talked to him much since their awkward hug but had run into him and made small talk here and there. “Is something wrong?” Harry asked, grabbing his healer bag off the stool and prepping for an emergency. “No, Potter, calm down,” Draco soothed him. “Not everything is an emergency,” he chuckled. “Oh uhh,” was all Harry mumbled, feeling a little embarrassed. “Uhh,” Malfoy started, also looking a bit embarrassed. “I didn’t think you needed to be alone today. So I’m here to uhh entertain you, I guess,” he trailed off, looking down. Harry was incredibly touched. He didn’t expect Malfoy to remember that his parents had died today or that Harry might be feeling down. His friends usually didn’t acknowledge the anniversary or check up on him, so this was a new experience for Harry. “Ohh, uhh, thanks! Uhmm, I’m not really feeling like going out. Are you ok hanging out here?” Harry asked him. “Sure,” Malfoy responded, coming into the cabin. “OH, and I brought wine,” he added, holding up a bottle. “Wasn’t sure if you were the get pissed kind of grumpy person but wanted to be prepared,” he said. Harry chuckled and assured him getting trashed wasn’t in his plans for the day. “Why don’t we make lunch and enjoy the wine then?” Draco suggested. Draco asked Harry about his parents and what he knew about them as they cooked. Harry told him about his father and Sirius being best friends and how his grandparents had practically adopted his godfather. He told him about Remus and how he found out about his mom from him. After lunch, they hung out in Harry’s living room and got a little drunker than planned. Harry was delighted to find out that Draco was more talkative after a few drinks and began telling Harry about Halloween traditions the wizarding world had and what celebrations at the Manor were like. When Draco mentioned getting a broom from Santa as a kid, Harry was shocked. “Wait! He’s real and a wizard?” Harry gasped. “Uhh, oh, Uhm.. yeah, you grew up as a Muggle, I forgot,” Draco responded, slurring his words slightly. “So, wizarding kids get a gift from Santa each year until they go to Hogwarts,” he explained. “Though they’re working on getting Muggleborns and eventually impoverished Muggle kids on the list. They just have to get the logistics right, so we have enough time,” he said, yawning. The conversation rewound its way to the reason for Draco’s visit, and they ended the evening with Harry and Draco curled up on the couch looking through the photo album Hagrid had given him in first year. “They look so young,” Draco said when they came to Harry’s favorite picture of his parents dancing around a fountain in fall. “Yeah, we’re older than they were,” Harry told him somberly. “Can you imagine having a baby right now? Blimey!” Draco said, eyes wide at the thought. Harry laughed and informed him that Ron and Hermione were trying just for that. After discussing the terrifying idea of them being old enough to have kids and be settled down, they decided it was time to end the night, as Draco could barely stay awake. Harry hugged him again, this time deliberately, and exclaimed how grateful he was for the company and that he had a great time. Draco then made his way next door. As Harry lay in bed trying to go to sleep, he replayed their conversations in his head. He was beginning to like this new Draco and was happy to be able to call him a friend at this point. Well, a friend he still felt a bit embarrassed around and who he found a bit fit… Harry shook his head to get those thoughts out of it. He was not going down that road of ideas tonight. He was contemplating what he would say to Ron and Hermione in his next owl when he remembered her words about the Crinkle department and all the things Brigsby told him and the decorations around the town. “Merlin’s balls, we live in the British North Pole, don’t we?” Harry gasped, putting all the secretive talk around town and Malfoy's dislike at talking about his job together. “He works for freaking Santa and does logistics to help all the kids who need it get presents,” he thought. Harry lay there for a bit, digesting this information before falling asleep.
Harry hadn't been able to broach the topic despite starting to have regular dinners with Draco and spending more time and getting closer to the man. Whenever Draco’s work came up, he managed to be as vague as possible and avoid giving any real info. Harry was enjoying spending time with him too much to push it. However, a few weeks into November, his suspicions were confirmed when he was rushed to Frank’s house; he had already seen Frank at the hospital. He was a portly man with a white beard who always wore red. Who also had high cholesterol from eating a ton of cookies. Harry feared the worst but was calmed when told his patient's name was Rudy and was steered towards the barn. “THIS is Rudy?” he asked once he walked in. “This is Rudy? A reindeer?” he clarified, sounding slightly panicked. “You expect me to heal a reindeer?” he asked Brigsby and Malfoy once he realized they were there. “He sprained his ankle,” Brigsby informed him. “How do you know a wild animal sprained his ankle?” Harry accused. “Well, he’s not a wild animal exactly,” Brigsby stated. “He’s like a town mascot,” Malfoy asked more than said. “Don’t get stuck on the reindeer thing; it’s just another word for caribou,” Malfoy informed him with a somewhat pleading look. “Oh well, then that’s no problem. I may not have studied reindeer, but my caribou unit was right in between surgery and spell damage,” Harry ranted while Malfoy tried not to smile. “ We keep things simple in Garland,” Brigsby said. “One handyman, one diner, one doctor,” he said. “You’re our only hope,” he added. “Right,” Harry said. "Well, hold him and make him comfortable." He went to work on Rudy’s ankle while silently questioning his life choices. “Will this heal by December?” Frank asked when he was done and had gotten aftercare instructions. “You’re asking me if Rudy the reindeer will be ok by Christmas eve?” Harry asked, eyebrows raised and clearly suspicious. “Uhm, we need him for the Christmas festival,” he stuttered in response. “Right,” Harry responded, trying not to roll his eyes. “He’ll be fine in a week or so,” he told him. The room seemed to sigh collectively as everyone’s tension subsided. “Uhh, let’s go get some tea,” Draco said, leading Harry out of the barn. “You look like you could use a break,” he told Harry. “Right. Let’s forget about the tea,” Harry said once they began walking down the street. “Let’s talk about the reindeer,” Harry accused. “Caribou,” Draco corrected. “Caribou, reindeer, whatever. People don’t usually keep them as pets,” Harry accused. “He’s not a pet,” Draco started. “Mascot, whatever.” Harry cut off. “We’re talking about Rudy the reindeer, who has to be fixed by Christmas eve, as requested by the guy who looks like Santa!” Harry started. “You didn’t think I would have some questions about this?” he asked Draco incredulously. “We answered all your questions,” Draco said defensively. “The Christmas eve festival is a really big deal around here,” he explained. “Oh, come on!” Harry laughed. “This place is unreal.” “Well, that’s Garland for you,” Draco shrugged. “I wish people would stop saying that,” Harry grumbled. “Oh, stop being such a grump,” Draco prodded. “Sure, Garland is a little unconventional. We might not have fancy overpriced tea places or fancy restaurants, but is that bad?” he asked. “I saw you out there. You were enjoying yourself,” he added, nudging Harry again. “Yeah, well, it’s a different experience I wouldn't get in London,” Harry responded, nudging back. Draco looked at Harry for a minute like he was contemplating something and then squared up his shoulders like he had made a decision. “You know what else we have that you won’t get in London?” He asked Harry. “What?” “Midnight picnics,” he answered, smiling. “Midnight picnics in the Shetland Islands? Sounds cold” Harry laughed. “True.” Malfoy started turning to stand and look directly at Harry “Trust me, Potter?” he asked with a smirk. “Yes, I trust you,” Harry replied, only slightly amazed at how quickly the thought came out of his mouth. Draco beamed. “ Good, I’ll pick you up at 10,” He told Harry, blushing slightly and walking away.
Harry couldn’t stop smiling to himself as he walked to work. He passed a few people who greeted him with a smile and saw people he had healed walking around happy and healthy, and it made him smile more. He walked into work to a round of applause and was startled. “You did a good thing this morning,” Billie informed him with a hug. “Does everyone know about Rudy?” he asked in disbelief. “Good news travels fast,” she told him, beaming. “Especially in Garland.” He received gifts and praise all day from what felt like the entire town. Hattie even hand-delivered his tea order, non-fat milk included. He hadn’t felt this appreciated, well, ever, he thought as he walked home that evening. He changed into his warmest robes and set a few extra heating charms in place. He went back and forth about getting a bottle of wine at the general store but decided against it. He even spent way too long trying to do his hair and then felt silly. Malfoy saw him every day, and he hadn’t specified this was a date. So why was he so nervous?
He heard some noise outside and glanced out the front window to see Draco talking to himself and holding flowers. Ok, maybe he wasn’t the only one nervous, and maybe this actually was a date. The butterflies in his stomach intensified. He smiled to himself, watching Draco shake himself off and hype himself up a bit before finally walking up to the door. Harry quickly ducked to not get caught spying. Harry quickly opened the door and tried to act surprised at the flowers. “Oh, lilies!” he gasped, having not recognized the flowers from the window. “I know it’s not an original idea, as everyone in town pretty much gave you flowers or gifts today,” Draco told him, handing them off. “They kind of did,” Harry admitted laughing. “But I checked with Wyatt, and no one had given you this particular flower,” he explained as Harry conjured up a vase. “And we talked about you trying to stop and smell the flowers more…plus you know the sentimental connection…” Draco trailed off a bit awkwardly but was still smiling at Harry. The apparent awkwardness but clearly well-thought-out and personalized touch had Harry beaming. He stopped and smelled the flowers before putting them in the vase. “They’re beautiful; thank you,” he told Draco sincerely and placed them on the counter where they usually ate dinner when he came over to cook. “Is what I’m wearing going to be warm enough, or do I need to grab some gloves?” Harry asked, gesturing to his carefully picked robes. Hermione said they brought out his eyes without looking like he was trying so hard. “I’ve thought about that and got us covered,” Draco said, blushing and adding in a small voice that he looked great. Draco being suave but also shy at the same time had Harry enthralled but also very amused. He never thought he’d see this side of the man. “Your chariot awaits,” Draco joked, holding his arm for Harry to take.
As they walked through the town, talking and joking around, Harry couldn’t help but be amazed at how comfortable he was feeling with Draco. Usually, he was a wreck on dates and hated the get to know you stage. He was also usually spending the first few times meeting someone looking for red flags and possible future issues. Now he had none of that impending doom feeling and was just enjoying spending time with Draco, and the nerves and butterflies were only the good kind. “Oh wow, you weren’t kidding,” Harry exclaimed as Draco led them to a clearing in some trees. “It’s amazing out here. Look at all those stars!” Harry didn’t think places like this existed anymore. The view rivaled any magically enhanced views from the telescopes when they were learning astronomy. “I’m glad you like it, but unfortunately, this isn’t our picnic spot,” Draco told him with a smirk. Confused, Harry thought for a second before looking around. “We’re flying?” he asked Draco, spotting a pair of brooms leaning against a tree. Draco just smiled in response handing him the nicer of the two. “They’re not the fastest, but they have built-in comfort charms and will keep us warm the whole time,” Draco explained as the two took off. “There’s the Big Dipper,” Harry pointed out as he followed Draco around the skies. “Doesn’t it feel like we’re in it?” Draco asked, laughing. “No place quite like Garland,” Harry heard him mutter. “Did you not like London?” Harry asked. Amazed at how the comfort brooms made things quiet enough for a conversation. He had never thought brooms for things outside of Quidditch would be something he enjoyed, but this was wonderful. “London was nice,” Draco told him, “ But also very challenging. Once mother had passed, it just wasn't the same. Garland is different. I love the work I do; it’s more fulfilling than anything I could get in London,” he told Harry. “In my heart, I feel like I belong here,” he added thoughtfully. “London is nice, but Garland is my home.” Draco being vulnerable did things to Harry’s heart he wasn’t quite ready to analyze yet. Especially the way Draco put the feeling of finding a home, like the way Harry had experienced at Hogwarts, into words when he was never able to. Harry brushed that to the side to talk about later and stuck with lighter subjects. “Do you ever miss the job you did for the Ministry with potions or whatever it was?” “I mean sometimes. But I gotta tell you, I love the work I do here and being the town handyman,” he added with a chuckle. “The work is always changing, I see lots of different people, and I get to really enjoy the moment in a way London would never let me,” he explained. “It must be part of Garland's magic,” he said, looking over at Harry. “Enjoying the moment seems to be rubbing off on you too,” he observed with a smile. “I am actually,” Harry admitted somewhat reluctantly. Garland was lovely, but he was still thinking about London and his destined Auror job.
They landed, and Draco started leading him through some trees. “When are we going to get there?" Harry asked after a few minutes, curiosity getting the better of him. “Are you ever going to tell me where we’re going?” he added, bumping shoulders with the blonde. “We’re here,” he said, leading them into another clearing. This one, however, was huge and covered with snow. Harry looked up and couldn’t stifle his gasp. “Dark Sky Park,” Draco informed him. "One of the best places in the entire world to stargaze.” Draco informed him as he laid out the blanket for them to sit on. Harry couldn’t take his eyes off the sky. He had never seen anything like it, stars as far as he could see. It felt like they were standing at the tallest spot in the world, and he could just reach out and touch them. “You cold?” Draco asked, pulling out a second blanket. Harry took the opportunity to wrap it around both of them and startle a small gasp out of Draco as he pulled the man closer. Snuggled up together, they both took a second to enjoy the moment.
“And the main reason I like this place,” Draco whispered close to Harry. “There is Draco” he smirked, pointing out his constellation. Harry laughed, following Draco’s finger to look. “Mother had it painted above my bed as a child,” he told him quietly. “It’s always been a small source of comfort,” he added. Harry pulled him closer, remembering how much comfort Draco had been on Halloween. “It’s beautiful,” he told him after a moment. “Narcissa isn’t a star, is it?” Harry asked. “No,” Draco told him. “Just a flower,like your mother,” he said. “I don’t know how she got out of the tradition,” he laughed. “There’s Regulus, the surprise of the Black family. Mother was shocked to hear he had turned on Voldemort,” Draco told him, pointing out the constellation. “Wish I could've met him,” he added quietly. “Hmm, I have some of his stuff in my Gringotts vault I think you’d like,” Harry informed him. Draco hummed in agreement. “And there’s dear old aunty Bella,” he added with a scoff. “Her constellation was also painted on my ceiling, but she scared me as a baby, so I kept magically erasing it after seeing her picture,” Draco told him. “It used to make Father so mad, but he was impressed with the dedication of a toddler to keep it off, so they stopped repainting it,” he added, laughing a little. “Oh yeah, I can imagine it was hard for them to deny you anything sometimes,” Harry said, remembering the spoiled child Draco once was. “What can I say? I was an adorable child,” Draco feigned, putting on his most haughty posh accent. They both laughed a little, not wanting to touch on the more serious issues with their childhoods but enjoying sharing them with each other. “And there,” Draco whispered, getting a bit closer to Harry to hold him a bit more. “Sirius,” Harry finished, recognizing his godfather’s constellation. They both sat in comfortable silence. Harry thinking over how Sirius would feel if he saw him now. He had often told him the world wasn’t black and white, and Harry thought he would enjoy seeing the man his cousin had become. Sirius would’ve understood more than anyone how hard it would’ve been for Draco to turn on his family's beliefs and become the person he was today. Harry took a moment to appreciate that Draco had done it all himself. He didn't have people like James and Remus to turn to for help. “You ok?” Draco asked him after a moment. “Yeah, better than I have been in a while,” Harry added, realizing Sirius would be proud of him as well. Auror position or not. “I’m just really enjoying the moment I’m in,” he added, looking at Draco and smiling. After a few seconds of looking into each other's eyes, the mood became charged. Harry couldn’t help but look down when the blonde licked his lips. The next thing he knew, they were kissing under the stars, and Harry wasn’t sure the last time he had felt so content.
Harry saw Draco a few times in passing over the next week or so, but time to spend together was hard to find. The Ministry building was crazy busy as it was now December. Harry was itching to find out more about his Santa theory but was not about to add to Draco or Brigsby’s stress. The two of them made a point to wave at Harry as they passed at Hattie’s. But the duo didn’t even stay to eat anymore, just grabbed food to go and headed off to work. Draco had left a few notes on his door as he left for work earlier than Harry. They were little reminders to have a good day, to stop and smell the flowers, or just the little reminders that Draco was thinking about him. They made Harry’s heart sore. The second week of the month started with Harry having to dodge people on the street and actually wait in line at the diner until Hattie had waved him over to the front to hand him his already made order. “Is something going on in town?” he asked her as he grabbed his tea. “There are people everywhere,” he added as he was knocked into, and another woman looked intently at his scar. He quickly fixed his hair so it wasn’t visible. Which was something he hadn’t had to do in a while and felt odd. “Oh, the Ministry just brings in extra workers right before Christmas,” she told him as she bagged the following customer's muffins. Harry’s ears perked up at this. A way to get info without having to bug Draco! “Really, why?” he asked her. “It’s the busy season,” was all the news she was giving. “Even Draco and Brigsby were too busy to grab food this morning,” she told him with a shake of her head. Harry thought of all the lovely notes on his door and wanted to make sure that Draco knew he was thinking about him too. “You know what,” he told Hattie. “Go ahead and bag up their usual order, and I’ll take it to them,” he decided. “Draco’s been working himself to death and hasn’t been home much at all. He should at least be eating!” he added. She smiled knowingly at him, and Harry was instantly aware that their longing looks across the diner the past week had not gone unnoticed. She handed him the bag and told him there was an extra scone there for him, and off he went.
When he walked up to the building, he was surprised to see it looked exactly like one would expect a government building to look. Well, except for the Christmas decorations everywhere. But that was par for the course for Garland. He tried to remember some of his Auror training and looked around without being obvious. “Is that a giant sleigh?” he asked himself after seeing a big shiny red something sticking out of a garage area. “Of course! For the Christmas Eve festival,” a worker walking nearby said. “Of course, the festival,” Harry said, unsure if he was trying to convince himself or the stranger. He walked through the front doors, anticipation curling in his gut. “This is it?” he thought, “it’s just a normal office building.” He sighed. The workers inside seemed to be occupied, and no one noticed him. He snuck past the receptionist and into a nearby area. It looked just like a giant warehouse with people addressing and sorting packages. He spotted a door labeled main offices in the next section and snuck in. The usual office cubicle area was a slight disappointment, but he clutched the breakfast bag and tried to remember the original reason for the visit. As he walked towards what he thought must be the area of Draco’s office, he stopped short when he heard his name.
“Harry can handle it,” Draco’s voice was arguing. “That’s not the point,” Frank was arguing back. Harry cast a quick Notice-Me-Not and looked into the office; Frank, the Santa look-alike who had owned the reindeer, was having a heated conversation with Draco. Frank was clearly in charge of the Ministry building and was Draco’s boss. “Fine. The point is I really want to share this with him,” Draco pleaded. “I really care about him, and he’s really special,” Draco said. Harry clutched the food to his chest, hoping his surprise and happiness hadn’t caused him to make a sound. He was ecstatic and happy to hear what he had been thinking so plainly put into words. Draco was feeling the same! “Of course he’s special!” Frank was saying, “He’s Harry Potter!” Draco and Harry both rolled their eyes at that. “But that doesn’t mean he’s the right person for you; think this through. What if he doesn’t take this news well? Or he decides to leave? You said yourself he’s planning to go back to the city. Does he not like it here?” Frank accused. “He does!” Draco said. “And then what happens?” Frank asks. “I’ll tell you what, you leave with him!” Frank ranted. “Look, I’m sorry it scared you when I almost left last year,” Draco told him. “I'll always be thankful for the opportunity you gave me. But if I’m going to choose Garland and take over for you eventually, I’m going to need a reason other than you and this town,” Draco explained, sitting down and trying to calm things down. “I understand Draco,” Frank said. “I really do. I just think you’re being rash,” Frank explained. Draco scoffed a little. “I think I’m being happy,” he told him with a sad lilt in his voice. “I don’t want to argue with you anymore. I’m going to go back to work,” Draco said, standing back up and turning towards the door. Harry’s mind was swimming. He knew how hard of a time Draco had in London and was devastated he was causing a rift with the person that had given Draco a home and work that made him happy. And Frank was right; Harry was planning on leaving. He felt horrible and should’ve known this would blow up like all his other relationships. Draco didn’t deserve this. He quietly tried to make his way out of the offices. “Harry?” he heard from behind him. Putting a smile on his face, he turned around to face Draco. “What are you doing here?” he asked him. “Oh,” Harry said, holding up the bag. “I just brought breakfast. Hattie said you hadn’t had time to stop by...” he trailed off. Draco beamed. “Yeah, it’s been crazy around here,” Draco sighed. “Frank is stressed and in a mood,” he added grimly. His smile then returned. “I am glad to see you, though!” he said, bumping their shoulders like they usually did when words were too much. “Yeah, Draco, look,” Harry started, wanting to get this over with and let Draco find someone more deserving. “You know what I think we should do?” Draco cut him off as he took the bag from him. “I really don’t think we should do anything,” Harry started half-heartedly. “We should go get your Christmas tree together,” Draco said, making a point to stand a little closer than friends would and brushing his hand against Harry’s. The way he was smiling and the feel of him close, plus the memory of their kisses, melted any resolve Harry had moments before. “Wait, like a real Christmas tree?” Harry asked, surprised. “Yes,” Draco said, sounding a little confused. “I’ve never had a Christmas tree,” Harry told him, feeling giddy like a little kid. “That is unacceptable,” Draco told him sternly. “You’re fired,” he added with a laugh. ”Ok, so tomorrow?” Draco asked. “I uhh,” Harry started feeling guilty again and like he didn’t deserve this. Before he could protest, Draco leaned in and kissed him on the cheek. Harry’s heart did a flip for the umpteenth time that morning. Draco was showing affection and making it known in public how he felt but not doing it in a showy look-at-me kind of way, and Harry wasn’t quite sure what to do with himself other than smile like an idiot. “Gotta go,” Draco told him. “Thank you so much for the food,” he added. Breaking away and heading back to work. “There’s food for Brigsby too!” Harry called after, once his brain had started working again.
The next evening, after Harry and Draco had traipsed around the woods and found what Draco deemed the perfect tree, they had set it up in Harry’s living room. Moving it inside and getting it to stand up straight had been a lesson in patience, with lots of falling over and laughter from the two of them. “Why didn’t we just use magic?” Harry asked, laughing once they had sat down on the couch and Draco had begun conjuring ornaments. “Because watching you fall over will always make me happy,” Draco answered. “Nice to know not everything has changed since we were kids,” Harry laughed, throwing a pillow at him. They put on the wireless, blasted some horrible Celine Warbeck Christmas music, and enjoyed decorating the tree. Draco made fun of Harry’s uneven ornament placement and tinsel throwing technique. At the same time, Harry told him about never having decorated one before and wrapped the other man in garland to get him to be quiet.
Once the tree was done, Harry was beaming with pride despite Draco swearing the left side had too many ornaments. Draco surprised him yet again by holding up a gift bag. Despite Harry’s protest at getting a gift, Draco insisted he needed it and demanded Harry open it. Inside was a beautifully made star for the tree topper. However, what took Harry’s breath away was the Hogwarts crest embedded in the middle with the school mascots breathing and moving around like the portraits. “I wanted to make sure it felt like home,” Draco told him quietly. Harry thanked him profusely while trying to choke back tears.
As they placed it on the tree, Draco pulled him in a warm hug, and he was grateful to be understood without needing words. They both had found homes when they really needed it, and explaining that to people like Ron, who had always had someplace to belong, was something Harry was tired of doing. Later they sat on Harry’s couch drinking hot chocolate by the fire and enjoying each other's company. “So, are you ever going to shoot straight with me about what goes on at that Ministry building?” Harry eventually asked. “I can see how you’d be curious about that,” Draco said, a bit uncomfortable. “Frank is really secretive about what he does in town,” he added. “And if you plan to leave…” he explained, looking over at Harry. “Do you still plan to leave?” Draco asked him. Harry’s stomach dropped. “I…I don’t know Draco,” he started. Draco clearly saw the confusion and anguish on his face because he quickly interrupted him. “I know. I get it. I do. It’s ok,” he told him, reaching for his hand after a few moments of silence. “ I really do love the tree topper,” Harry said, looking up at the star as the snake made its way around the base. “Yeah, I wanted you to have something you'd really love. And that would remind you of the good moments from being a kid and bring out the wonder in you,” Draco explained, laying his head on Harry’s shoulder. Once again, words failed him, and all Harry could do was kiss the wonderful man in front of him. “Well, whatever happens,” Harry told him later, “this is the best Christmas I’ve ever had.” “It’s the most Christmas you’ve probably ever had,” Draco added, laughing. “Well, with work and everything, I just don’t take the time to enjoy everything else,” Harry defended himself. “Hmm,” Draco agreed. “Like the best things in life,” he added with a smirk. As he watched Draco walk back to his cabin next door, Harry was again hit with how happy the past few weeks had made him. And not just Draco. He loved the nurses he worked with, Billie was fantastic to have by his side, and the people in the town treated him with respect and appreciation. And because he was their healer, not because he was famous. Hattie was a fantastic cook and had become a good friend and staple in his daily life. Harry went to bed feeling content but confused at the same time.
He woke the following day to an owl pecking at his window. Hermione had written that the candidate Robards had picked had fallen through and that they were looking at him next. He had two weeks, basically until Christmas Eve, to be down at the Ministry in London for his interview. Harry had no clue what to do. He let Billie take over the clinic for the next two days and just sat in his cabin staring at the tree he and Draco had put up. He had made a plan! He knew he would be on the Auror force since he was 15! Yeah, it had gone from being in the field to being a healer, but the end goal had always been the same. And Harry always stuck to his plans. He didn’t win a war by not following through. A decision was made; he made plans to see Draco that weekend. He knew Draco would be too busy for the next few days and did not want to stress him too much with work being so busy.
The day he met Draco at Hattie's for breakfast was grey, cold, and bleak. Harry sat at the table waiting, feeling like his heart was In his stomach. “Hey!” Draco said when he arrived, all smiles and kissing him on the cheek. “Hey, uh, can we talk?” Harry told him as Draco sat down. “So I guess this is going to be the shortest relationship ever,” Draco quipped, smile fading a bit as he took in Harry’s body language and choice of words. “Draco..” Harry pleaded. “Well, I thought we had fun,” Draco started. “The other night at your place was.. amazing.” Harry cut him off. "It was absolutely amazing,” he told him. “Everything with you has been,” Harry explained. Grabbing Draco’s hands and needing him to understand. “But the next morning, I got some news,” he told him. “The Auror position in London,” he explained. “It’s mine. If I want it.” “Do you want it?” Draco asked him. “It’s everything I’ve worked for,” Harry explained. “It’s been my plan since we were in 5th year.” “You didn’t answer my question,” Draco pointed out. “Draco, I can’t abandon years of hard work and preparation just for...” Harry tried to explain. “Just for me?” Draco scoffed. “You know deep down, I probably knew Garland wasn’t going to be enough for you,” he sighed. “Draco, please understand,” Harry begged. “It doesn’t have to end; there’s still Flooing, and owls, and we can visit each other,” Harry pleaded. “With how hard it is to get owls and transportation here, we both know that won't work, Harry,” Draco told him. “Look, I understand. I do,” Draco told him, standing up. “I’m glad everything’s working out for you, Potter, just like you planned,” he told him with a sad smile and a kiss on the cheek before leaving him alone at the table.
The next few days of Harry waiting for his Floo appointment were hard. He kept having to talk himself out of going next door to Draco’s, and saying goodbye to Hattie and Billie was incredibly hard. He often found himself wishing the Floo channels weren’t so backed up with the holiday. He couldn’t get a spot until December 23rd, and he would have to go straight to the Auror office to make it in time. He packed up all his things and made sure to cast extra cushioning charms around the tree topper and ornaments Draco had conjured. He reminded all his patients of their necessary potions and exercise and told Billie she should think about becoming a Healer, as she was a super nurse. With one last glance over at Draco’s cabin, he grabbed his broom and was out the door to meet Brigsby to fly out of town. As they walked to the take-off spot, Brigsby asked if he wanted to stop by Hattie’s for one last cup of tea or needed anything at the general store. “I’d love to Brigsby, I really would,” Harry told him. “I’d love to stop time and still be here and still..” Harry sighed. “Still go,” Brigsby cut him off with a sad smile. “Yeah,” Harry whispered. They took off and began their flight towards the Floo terminal.
After a while, a Patronus whirled around the pair speaking frantically in a voice Harry didn’t recognize. “What? What is it?” Harry asked desperately. “Frank,” Brigsby answered, panicked. “He collapsed,” he added, looking somewhat shocked. “Well, turn around,” Harry told him, spinning his broom towards the town. Harry flew straight towards the hospital and ran into the room. “What’s going on?” he asked Billie. “He collapsed at work with chest pains,” she explained, handing over his chart. “Are you in pain now?” Harry asked him. “No,” he told him. “I’m fine, but they insisted on bringing me here,” Frank told Harry in a huff. “I’m glad they did,” Harry told him, looking at the chart. “You’re going to need surgery,” he told Frank as Draco and Brigsby came into the room. “What!?” everyone in the room asked. “Those potions are dangerous,” Harry said, looking at no one but Frank. “You’re lucky it’s just your heart,” he added. “Billie, prep the OR and get ready to assist.” “Yes, sir,” she told him, heading out. Once Frank had been sedated and had given permission, Harry had explained to Brigsby and a very worried Draco that Frank had been taking potions to enhance his productivity and not have to sleep as much. They had weakened his heart, and he had what Muggles call a heart attack. Harry needed to go in and repair the damage, but Frank would be fine in a few hours as long as he stayed off the potions in the future. Brigsby and Draco made plans on how to help Frank work less and stay healthy while Harry prepped for surgery. Harry sat in the breakroom with Billie a few hours later, exhausted but happy. The surgery had gone perfectly, and Frank would be awake in an hour or so with a practically brand new heart. By tomorrow you would never know he was sick, and his wife would be by to take him home. Billie left to check on their other patients then headed home.
A little while later, Harry still sat in the breakroom and decided, fuck it. He never liked following rules anyway. He grabbed some powder and made his way to the emergency Floo. “Hello?“ Harry called out. "Oh, Harry!” he heard Hermione yell from the other room. “Hold on, we’ll be right there!” she added. He smiled to himself as his two best friends' faces made their way into view. He had missed them dearly. “How’s Robards?” Ron asked when he sat down. “I wouldn’t know, as I’m still in Garland,” Harry told them. “Why, what happened?” Ron asked. “Someone in town needed my help,” Harry explained. “Oh, I’m sure they’ll understand,” Hermione started. "You should write—" “I will owl, Robards,” Harry cut her off, “to tell him I’m turning the offer down.” “Why would you do that?” Ron asked, confused. “Because,” Harry explained, “going to London would make me a successful Auror, but I think staying in Garland will make me happy,” he told them with a shrug. “Oh, that’s wonderful!” Ron sighed. “I don't understand,” Hermione said. “Oh, I don’t want to disappoint you, Hermione, and I know you worked so hard to make sure I had a chance,” Harry told her. “I don’t care about that Harry” she brushed him off with a wave. “You just worked so hard, for so long. I just want to make sure you’re not suddenly giving up your dream,” she told him. “I’m sure Hermione,” he told her. “I’m giving up my dream of being an Auror, not my dream of being a healer,” he explained. “Hell, I work harder in Garland than I ever have,” he told her with a laugh. “Well, I’m happy to hear that,” Hermione said, sounding like a proud mom. “I finally understand what Ron's been saying about not needing to stick to the Auror thing,” Harry said. Ron laughed, sounding happier than Harry had heard him in a while. “You live wherever you want, but you better come and visit,” he told him sternly. “You can’t be godfather if you're never around,” he added with a glance at Hermione. Harry gasped and spent the next hour or so congratulating his best friends and making plans to come visit and help Hermine find a good healer for her and the baby. He also made them promise to come visit and got to tell them all about his relationship with Draco and the little things that they hadn’t gotten to put in letters. Hermione eventually realized he was using the emergency Floo and promised to work it out to get his cabin connected to make visiting easy. After all, they did save the world together; the least they could get was accessible communication. Harry eventually decided he had broken the rules enough, wished them a Merry Christmas one more time, and disconnected. Before he knew it, he had fallen asleep on the couch in the breakroom.
He woke with a start, remembering the previous day and where he was and made his way to check on Frank. “How’re you feeling?” he asked as soon as he walked into the room. “I feel great,” Frank told him. “No need for a lecture on the potions. I really didn’t know they were that dangerous and will not be retaking them,” he promised. “I know you’re right about all of that, and I really do feel terrible about taking them,” he added. “But this is my—” “Busy time?” Harry cut him off. “I know you’ve heard it all before,” Frank pleaded. “But tonight is my busiest time,” he begged. “Christmas Eve?” Harry asked. “Yes,” Frank protested. “Hmm, that’s funny,” Harry started. “You know most people have tonight off,” he said pointedly. “Well, there’s only one other guy I know who works this hard on this particular night,” Harry added, looking at Frank “Ohh?” Frank asked, looking away. “It’s a real shame you can’t have tonight off with your condition,” Harry faked sympathy. “I promise I’ll rest tomorrow if you give me leave to work tonight,” Frank begged. “Weeks, months of rest!” he added. After a few more promises and begging, Harry finally gave in. “Ok, I’ll clear and discharge you,” he told Frank. “Consider it my gift. Merry Christmas.” Frank thanked him with a hug. “Oh, and don’t eat too many of the cookies!” Harry added as he left the room with a smirk.
“Do you happen to know where Draco is?” he asked Brigsby, who had come with Frank's wife to collect him. “He’s setting up the stages and booths for the festival,” Brigsby told him. “You don’t want to miss it,” he added. Harry took his time taking his belongings back to the cabin and trying to figure out what to say to Draco. Before he knew it, the sky was getting dark, and he really needed to get going. He walked down main street past the general store and Hattie’s. He saw children he had treated run around with their friends playing tag, and the air smelled like candy apples and hot cider. A snowball fight was going on to his left and booths with games and food to buy on his right. It was the most festive Christmas Eve Harry had ever been a part of. He grabbed a cookie from Hattie’s booth and explained he wasn’t leaving quite yet. She gave him that knowing smile she always seemed to have, and he rushed off as quickly as possible. Billie hugged him when she passed by, and he heard a chorus of "Merry Christmas, Healer Harry!" whenever he passed a group of people. He kept his eyes out for a head of blond hair the entire time. “He’s fixing something in the reindeer pen,” Brigsby whispered while giving him a hug. He thanked him and made his way over. Harry took a moment to stand and watch Draco work. He got the same feeling in his heart as he did when he thought of Hogwarts and knew he had made the right decision. Draco was beginning to feel like home. “Must be exhausting being the only handyman in town,” he called out after a moment. Draco turned to look at him. “No more than being the only healer in town,” he quipped with a smile. “I didn’t expect to see you here,” Draco said, keeping his distance. “Yeah, well, I had to see what everyone was talking about,” Harry said, taking a few steps closer. “And…I wanted to ask you if you would be my date for New Year’s Eve,” He added, taking a few slow steps towards Draco. “Really?” Draco asked, looking almost pleadingly at Harry, as if he couldn’t believe it. “Yeah,” Harry said as Draco began coming closer. “And Valentine’s Day,” Harry added when they stood face to face. “What about London?” Draco asked him. “Everything I need is right here in Garland,” Harry told him. He was also going to say something else but was quickly pulled into a kiss. “Ho Ho Ho!” They promptly pulled apart, startled, and turned to see Frank in his Santa outfit in the sleigh being pulled by reindeer. “Oh well, now I see why he had to work tonight,” Harry told Draco. “Good to see Rudy back on his feet,” he added, nodding to the reindeer. “Let’s get the show underway!” Frank hollered as he went past them. “Look, Harry, I really want you to stay, but you should know the full story first,” Draco told him. “Ohh?” Harry asked with a smile. “My job at the Ministry, Frank’s Job, Rudy, the sleigh….” Draco started looking a bit nervous. Harry just turned to face him. “Well, that’s Garland for you,” Harry said, smiling and pulling Draco in for yet another kiss.