Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Better Late Than Never	By : SlythindorMalfoy Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Draco Views: 22997 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 3
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter and it's characters. All rights go to J. K. Rowling and Warner Bros. I do not make any money from this story.

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
- 7
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Harry Potter and it's associated characters etc. All belongs to J.K Rowling and Warner Bros.
A/N: Here's another. A huge thanks to you, djaddict for pushing to write this hellish chap(lol), for your countless suggestions and for being and amazinggg beta. :D. Anyways guys hope you enjoy this one as well!
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Review Responses:
BAFan: hehehe oh yes it is! Enjoy this one! ;). Thx for the review! :)
delia cerrano: your suggestions are hilarious! Lol! Hope you like this one. :D. Thx for the review! :)
nightCat09: I know right!? They are just perfect. XD. Enjoy the chap! Thx for your review. :)
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All remaining mistakes are all mine. Again...enjoy!
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Harry smiled as he opened the front door of his house and walked in. He had had a great time visiting Neville in Ireland. He was a bit disappointed though, that he had to leave a few days early. Neville was a Herbologist, one of the most sought after in Wizarding Britain. Harry was glad that his friend had found his way in life. Neville was married to a beautiful woman named Lena and had a son and a daughter. The trip had to be cut short because Neville had to leave to acquire a rare ingredient that was needed for a potion for a sick child.
Harry sighed as he placed his coat on the back of the sofa. He was just heading to the kitchen when a noise caught his attention. He stopped.
'What the hell was that?' He thought to himself. He ignored it and continued heading to the kitchen but more sounds again stopped his progress. His brow creased in confusion. He listened and realised that it seemed to be coming from upstairs.
"Ginny?" He called out as he made his way up the stairs. There was no response and he grew worried. What was going on up there? It didn't slip his notice though, that the sounds now distinctly resembled moans. He refused to think on that as he hurried up the stairs. It could be anything, Ginny could be hurt. His steps quickened as the noises grew in volume. He followed it to their bedroom and quickly opened the door. It didn't immediately register in Harry's mind what he was seeing. Two naked bodies gyrating in pleasure, a head of long, red hair thrown back in ecstasy. When it did register though, he saw red. His anger and magic bubbled to the surface and the next thing he knew, there was a loud crack and the sound of two bodies slamming against a surface.
"WHAT THE FUCK!?" Harry shouted.
He couldn't believe it. This was not fucking happening. This was not fucking happening!
"H-Harry! Harry i-it isn't what..." Ginny stuttered. Her eyes wide in shock.
"Then what the fuck is this Ginny?" He shouted.
"Harry please! Let me explain!" He heard Ginny's piteous whining but his brain refused to register what she was saying. He could feel his body shaking with anger. He glanced at the frozen man on the floor next to Ginny and choked in shock. A dry chuckle left his mouth.
"Cormac McLaggen. Fucking Cormac McLaggen." Harry said lowly glaring at the idiot. He heard a slight squeak from said man and smirked. "Really Ginny? How long has this been going on?" He asked, his voice barely above a whisper in his anger. They both just sat there staring at him, mouths agape, which irritated him even more. "I asked you a fucking question!" He shouted, his magic flew through the room and he could hear the windows rattling. He was sure he looked like some deranged animal but at that moment he couldn't give a fuck. Ginny still sat there, naked, her mouth opening and closing as she obviously fought to not tell him something that would further his ire. Harry growled and it reverberated throughout the entire room, the rattling of the windows increased and there was a slight wind in the room. He saw McLaggen's eyes widen in fear and a jolt of satisfaction shot through him. They had to leave, his magic was getting out of hand and he knew that no matter how badly he wanted to kill the two idiots in front of him, he couldn't.
"Get out Ginevra. Get the fuck out now." He said through gritted teeth as he fought to keep his magic from shredding them apart. McLaggen didn't need telling twice, he had immediately gotten up and began getting his clothes together. Ginny apparently had no sense of self-preservation.
"H-Harry, p-please. I'm sorr..." Was all she said and Harry exploded. He did not want to hear that last word.
"Shut the fuck up! Shut the fuck up and GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!" He screamed just as his magic exploded outward. He glanced at them once more just in time to see the fear on their faces before they disappeared from view. His magic had forcibly removed them from his house, naked as they were. McLaggen did not get to put his clothes on in time and Harry was glad. He incendiod everything in the room with a heated glance and sighed a bit as his magic eventually calmed. He didn't know where his magic had sent the two but he hoped it would be somewhere they would be seen and recognized. Fuckers.
Harry just stood in the centre of the burned room. A growl escaped him as the recent events rushed through his head. He had seen it, yet it was still so hard to believe. His body was shaking and there were so many different emotions running through him and it was like his brain was unsure of how he should react. Making a split second decision, he apparated straight into Ron and Hermione's living room. At that moment, he didn't care what they were doing or if they weren't at home, he would wait for them.
"Harry!" A voice screeched his name and he fought to keep his composure as he saw Hermione coming towards him hurriedly, Ron close behind her. He could see the worry on their faces and was sure he looked a sight.
"Ginny-Ginny cheated!" He blurted out abruptly before Hermione could reach him. He knew if she held him, he would break. He saw her steps falter and her eyes widen in shock. Ron was slack jawed as he tried to process Harry's words. "I caught her!" He continued, fighting to keep his voice from breaking. He glanced down so they wouldn't see the tears threatening to fall from his eyes. Everything was so confusing, one moment he was so angry he wanted to explode and the next he wanted to collapse on the floor and bawl his eyes out. He glanced up at his friends when he realised they hadn't responded and was just in time to see a knowing look pass between them.
"Wha? What was that look about?" He asked confused.
"What look mate?" Ron asked, looking confused, but Harry knew he was lying because the tips of his ears were reddening.
"Don't pretend! I saw that look you gave each other!" He shouted. "You knew something was wrong didn't you?" He asked, not quite hiding the betrayal he felt. It hurt when he saw Ron's face rapidly reddening and Hermione looked troubled.
"Harry. Harry, you can't think that. That's not it at all." Hermione pleaded but Harry didn't want to hear it. All he could hear in his head was 'How could they?' At the back of his mind he knew he was being unreasonable but he didn't care. He was so hurt, so angry and so fucking confused.
"I don't know what is going on. I shouldn't have come here." He said shaking his head and walking away from them.
"Harry mate, come o-" Ron tried.
"No!" He screamed at them before he apparated again, ignoring the small voice in his head telling him that he shouldn't be apparating in his current state of mind.
A few seconds later he appeared in front a beautiful manor and he prayed to Merlin that Draco would be able to sense his presence. He felt like he was close to breaking. It wasn't too long after that he noticed Draco running towards him and he felt his body sag with relief. He didn't even hear Draco calling his name. He just fell to his knees, all the warring emotions inside of him made him feel weak and dizzy. He gasped softly as he felt arms encircle him and hold him tightly. He couldn't cry though so he just went slack in the strong arms. He could feel it as Draco rocked him gently, his firm body a comfort he didn't know he needed. They stayed like that for a while, until he felt his emotions were somewhat under control. At least for now. He shifted slightly to let Draco know he was ready to get up and they rose together, Harry silently thanked Draco as he led them to the manor.
Draco led him to a room that felt warm and inviting and sat him down on a comfortable sofa. Draco sat down next to him, and immediately told his house elf to prepare tea for them. A few seconds later, the elf popped back into the room with their tea and they both sat silently for a while, sipping tea. Harry was grateful for the silent comfort. For some reason, he had no lingering embarrassment from what occurred earlier. All that caused was a slight feeling of contentment to be mixed with all his current other confusing emotions. He knew he had to explain the situation to Draco but his mind was too jumbled to put anything into words.
"You don't have to tell me anything right now Harry." Draco's soft voice broke through his thoughts and he jerked slightly. His fingers tightened on the teacup as he fought for control of his emotions. He took a shaky breath and turned to the blond.
"I caught Ginny cheating on me, with Cormac McLaggen." He said slowly in an attempt to not lose control of his temper again. However, he was losing the fight. "I caught them in the act. I caught them going at it like the fucking animals they are! And in my own bed!" He growled out. Anger was quickly becoming his dominant emotion again as the images flashed through his mind. He felt like a bubbling cauldron about to explode. "Could you believe it Draco? I mean, how stupid can I fucking be to not have seen it. Oh, she's perfect, she's changed. Merlin! I'm such a fucking idiot!" He screamed before flung his teacup across the room and shot up off the chair. He immediately began to pace like a caged animal, gripping his hair in his anger and frustration. He knew he needed an outlet; his anger currently overruled coherent thought.
'How?' Harry screamed in his mind. 'How could this happen? Why would Ginny do this to me? How could Ginny do this to me!?' He couldn't understand it. He couldn't understand anything! He thought he heard someone call his name but that was drowned out by his frantic thoughts. 'And of all the people in the Wizarding world, she had to choose Cormac Fucking McLaggen. The biggest fucking git at Hogwarts.' Merlin how he wanted to...
"Harry!" A strained voice close to his ear brought him abruptly out of his internal ranting. It was only then he realised that he was firmly encased in a pair of strong familiar arms and just like that, his frantic mind calmed instantly and he relaxed.
He felt the arms relax their hold as he calmed. As everything cleared he looked about himself and his eyes widened as he took in the destruction of the room. 'Oh gods! My magic!' He thought and groaned inwardly. This was the second time today this had happened. His head bowed with shame, he had completely demolished the room. 'Wait Draco!' He suddenly thought and his head snapped up. Draco had held him while his magic went haywire! Harry spun around to come face to chin with Draco, his eyes immediately travelled downward and he gulped as he saw the many tears in Draco's robes. He could see the angry, red scratches on the pale skin. He gasped and looked up into the silver eyes which widened in what he assumed was fear.
"Dr-Draco, I'm sorry. My magic has been unstable today. I didn't even realise it was happening." He apologised and tried to explain. He hoped Draco understood and wouldn't be too angry. Harry honestly felt that at that moment, Draco being there was the only thing kept him sane.
"Harry, it's fine. I understand why it happened." Draco reassured him and smiled. Draco's arms still loosely heldhim and being in that embrace, staring up into those mercury eyes filled with concern, made him want to bury himself in the strong chest in front of him and just cry. But he wouldn't. He refused to cry, he felt that somehow it would give the two bastards satisfaction. In fact, Harry didn't even think he could cry at the moment. There were still too many different emotions battling to come to the forefront; anger, hurt, pain, sorrow. Now that his anger was somewhat calmed, he didn't know how to feel. It was then that he realised he needed to be alone. He needed to be alone to sort out his emotions, especially with his magic responding so readily to them. He didn't want to hurt anyone else.
"Draco. I-I need to go." He whispered to the blond and he felt those arms tighten around him as if to hold him there.
"Harry you don't have to go." Draco whispered back and Harry's resolve almost broke.
"No Draco. I have to. I need time to sort everything out." He said and looked up at the blond with pleading eyes. Harry knew if Draco wanted him to stay he wouldn't be able to resist the comfort of those arms. He watched as different emotions flashed across Draco's face, clearly showing his warring thoughts. He smiled softly as Draco gave a resigned sigh. He knew he would understand.
"Okay Harry. Just remember that I'm here if you need me. And write or something so I'll know that you're ok." Draco finally muttered, managing a small, but strained smile.
"Thanks for understanding Draco." He whispered. It was only when he tried to step back and was met with resistance did they both realise that Draco's arms were still around him. Harry blushed and looked discreetly up at Draco and was surprised to see a blush on the pale face as well. The strong arms immediately fell away and Harry momentarily mourned the loss of the comforting warmth. They silently walked to the door of the manor and he left with a muttered goodbye and apparated once he reached beyond the wards.
A few seconds later he appeared on the doorstep of no. 12 Grimmauld Place. He sighed heavily and immediately began to strengthen the wards, allowing none but himself access. An hour later he stumbled into the dingy hallway of the house and sighed sadly. He had never gotten the chance to clean it after the war and now he wished he had. Kreacher had died so there was no one else to do it. Not that Kreacher would've done any good, he was too old.
"Come on Harry, you've got some things to do." He muttered to himself as he walked to the kitchen. He sat at the worn table and summoned a quill, ink and parchment from Merlin knows where in the house. He had some letters to write.
Harry knew, given his vindictive thoughts when he basically banished the cheating bitch and McLaggen, that they would end up someplace public. So naturally it would be in all the Wizarding newspapers by morning. He had to make sure his sons were notified of the situation instead of being surprised like everyone else come morning. However, he was not in a good state of mind to tell his children what happened personally, especially with his magic acting up just thinking about it.
Sighing again, he quickly penned a letter to Headmistress McGonagall, with general details, explaining what occurred and asked if she could inform his sons before morning. He mentioned that she should tell them that he couldn't meet with them because of his currently uncontrollable magic. He then wrote a letter to Molly with the same general details and asking her to just brief Lily about what happened. He also explained why he was unable to meet with her personally. He was tempted to write to Ron and Hermione apologising for his earlier behaviour but a brief flare of anger stopped him. He knew they were unaware of the cheating but that look he saw meant they knew something. He briefly wondered why they didn't mention anything to him but shook it off. He would confront them when he was in more control of his emotions.
With a grunt, he got up from the kitchen table and headed to the living room. He was going to deliver the letters by floo. With a flick of his wrist, he wandlessly started a fire. He threw the floo powder into the fire and waited for the flames to turn green before sending the letter to Hogwarts through. He repeated the same process for the letter to Molly. He sat on the floor by the fireplace and waited for their replies. He highly doubted anyone would come through, it was too soon. But if anyone did, he would send them right back before they could blink.
As he sat in front the fireplace waiting for the replies, he thought about his sons and their reactions. It was two weeks before Christmas break which meant finals. How were they supposed to cope with something like this going on? Especially with the press involved. He groaned silently as he realised that was partially his fault even though it was justifiably done.
The floo flaring to life brought him from his thoughts and he reached forward just in time to catch the letter that flew out of it. He recognised Minerva's handwriting immediately. A grateful smile appeared on his face when he read that she had agreed to his request and that she hoped he was doing okay. He put aside the response and stared listlessly at the fire. Only a few minutes passed before the floo flared green again and a letter shot out of it. He immediately caught it with his seeker reflexes. When he noticed Molly's handwriting he immediately locked the floo. Harry couldn't help but smile when he read Molly's letter. She had stated that she couldn't believe what Ginny had done and that of course she would take care of Lily in the meanwhile. At the end, she had tacked on that he had to remain strong, especially for his children and that the family was behind him one hundred percent.
Feeling slightly relieved that that was done, Harry got up off the floor and got himself a bottle of Firewhiskey from the kitchen cupboard and spelled a glass clean. He was not one for drinking excessively but he felt that tonight it was needed. He filled the glass and finished it in a few gulps before repeating the process. He hoped with all his might that it would drown out everything because it hurt too much. Merlin did it hurt.
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Draco was in his study sipping on some tea when he felt a disturbance at the edge of the wards. With a soft crack he apparated to the front door. He opened the door a little and scanned the area. To say Draco was shocked to see Harry standing outside the wards was a complete understatement. He stood there in shock until he noticed Harry seemed ready to tip over. Worried, he rushed over just as Harry fell to his knees. Draco didn't think, he just knelt behind Harry and held him, rocking him gently as he fought with his emotions. He felt Harry go slack in his arms and was relieved that he seemed to have gotten some control over his emotions and relaxed a bit. He honestly didn't care that his robes were getting filthy, he knew Harry needed his comfort right now. Draco was unsure of how long they stayed in that position but he was relieved when he felt Harry shift indicating that he was ready to get up. They stood up and Draco knew no questions were needed, he just led Harry straight to the manor.
Draco led Harry to the family living room and sat him down, then sat next to him. They sat in silence and drank the tea he had ordered from a house elf. He didn't mind the silence. He could tell Harry was sorting through his thoughts. His mind raced though, he wanted to know who or what had put Harry in such a state. He was already plotting ways to destroy whoever or whatever had hurt his Harry. When Draco noticed Harry seemed to be having trouble sorting out everything he decided to try and ease his mind.
"You don't have to tell me anything right now Harry." He practically whispered to the man sitting next to him. His worry grew as he saw Harry's fingers tighten on his teacup. 'What had happened for Harry to be like this!?' He wondered to himself. He waited patiently as Harry took a deep breath and turned to face him.
The words that came out of Harry's mouth seemed to have forced Draco's mind to partially shut down. All he was able to process was 'Ginny', 'cheating' and 'Cormac McLaggen'. He couldn't believe it! He must've heard wrong! 'That filthy bitch!' He thought maliciously. He knew she was a conniving piece of shit but still he just...couldn't...believe it! 'And with fucking McLaggen, that disgusting whelp! What the hell was she thinking?' He thought incredulously. Draco didn't even notice anything going on around him. His mind was too caught up in what he'd just heard. He vaguely heard Harry ask him something and the sound of something smashing then...
"Oomph!" He grunted as he was hit square in the face with a throw pillow. He didn't have time to think about where it came from because he had to duck, narrowly missing being hit again. He glanced up from his crouched position and his eyes widened in surprise. The windows were rattling in their frames and throw pillows were flying all over the room. Bits of broken china were zooming across the room like weapons. At the centre of it all was a furiously pacing Harry, his hands gripping his hair. Everything just swirled around him and Draco realised he was too caught up in his inner turmoil to realise the mayhem his magic was causing. He dashed to the middle of the room, thanking his seeker skills in being able to avoid all the missiles. He wrapped his arms around Harry effectively stopping the furious pacing but Harry still didn't snap out of it. He tried calling his name and even shaking him a bit but to no avail.
"Harry! Harry please calm down!" Draco shouted over the noise in the room, hoping it would rouse Harry. He could feel the stings from the scratches on his body as Harry's magic whipped around him. He refused to let go though.
"Harry!" He shouted again. This time right into the ear closest to his mouth. Draco knew he had finally gotten through to Harry when he felt his body calm in his arms and the room stopped being a war zone. It was only then he loosened the tight hold he had on Harry. He frowned in confusion when he saw Harry's head bow in apparent shame. 'What could he be ashamed about?' He was leaning forward to ask Harry just that when suddenly Harry's head snapped up, narrowly avoiding cracking his nose. He almost fell back when Harry suddenly swivelled around to face him. Draco watched as Harry's eyes travelled down his body, apparently noticing the tears on his clothes and the scratches. He wanted to reassure him that everything was okay but was stopped short when Harry gasped and those green eyes filled with guilt locked with his. His eyes widened. 'Harry couldn't possibly be feeling guilty about this could he? Of course he would. Stupid man!' Draco thought to himself and almost groaned aloud as Harry immediately began to apologise. He was quick to assure him that everything was alright and that he understood. When those beautiful jade eyes looked up at him again Draco could see that Harry was having an internal battle. He could practically feel Harry struggling to not bury himself in his chest. He wished he would though. Harry needed to cry to get everything out.
He was rightfully upset when Harry wanted to go. He didn't want Harry to be alone at all especially in the emotional state he was currently in. His arms tightened, he wished with all his might that he could keep Harry within them forever but he knew it wasn't possible right now. He saw the resolute look on Harry's face when he told him that he needed to sort out his emotions. Draco had to keep telling himself that Harry needed the time. He gave a resigned sigh, he couldn't keep Harry here, especially with those big, pleading eyes aimed at him. There was nothing he could do. He assured the brunette again that he would be there for him and that he should write. A small burst of happiness bloomed in his chest when Harry thanked him for understanding. His cheeks burned when he realised he was still holding Harry, and he didn't miss the blush on Harry's face either. He immediately dropped his hands to make the situation less awkward. They walked to the front door and Draco whispered goodbye as Harry walked to the edge of the wards and apparated.
It broke his heart to see his Harry so down, he vowed he would make that two timing slut pay. With a loud growl he walked back to the living room. It was already returned to its rightful state thanks to the house elves. Draco sighed and gracefully flopped down into the same chair he and Harry had just sat on, mulling over things in his head. He smiled softly as a hot cup of tea appeared on the side table next to the chair. He picked it up and took a small sip.
'Weaselette and McLaggen. Who would've thought? I wonder how long it's been going on?' He thought as he sipped his tea. Two seconds later he jerked abruptly as a thought suddenly sprung into his head. He barely registered the fact that he had spilled the hot tea all over himself.
"Shit!" He cursed and rushed to the family floo room, he had an important call to make. He grasped the floo powder, threw it in the flame then shouted 'Zabini Manor' before kneeling down and sticking his head in the green flames. It only took a few seconds for Blaise to appear as he knelt down in front of his own fire.
"Draco? You look a bit harried. Is everything okay?" Blaise asked concernedly.
"Blaise, remember that issue I asked you to casually look into a few months ago? Well it's become more urgent. Could you look into it more thoroughly and more urgently for me? Please." Draco said in a rush completely ignoring Blaise's concerned question.
"Sure Draco, but you're worrying me. Is something going on?"
"I'm fine. Just, I need you to get on with this request as soon as possible okay?" He asked and waited for Blaise's nod. He then went on to explain why he needed the information so urgently.
"Draco, I don't mind doing what you've asked, but you can't expect me to get those files so quickly. Especially with the persons that they concern." Blaise said slowly as if worried Draco was going to hex him.
"Yes Blaise. I am aware of that hence the reason why I asked you to start immediately." Draco said just a tad bit irritably. He knew that Blaise had not focused much on the research earlier because it wasn't such an urgent issue then. He would've done it himself but he was too preoccupied with Harry. He watched as Blaise sighed.
"Okay Draco. Are you sure you're alright though?" Blaise questioned again and Draco's patience snapped.
"For Merlin's sake Blaise! Do you want to step through and check my forehead? I'm bloody well fine!" He snapped at his best friend. He sighed irritably as a dark eyebrow rose in amusement and a smirked formed on Blaise's face.
"Potter was always the one to rile you up Draco." Blaise said, his voice tinged with amusement before he ended the floo call. Draco pulled his head out of the fire and knelt there staring stupidly at nothing. 'What the hell did Blaise know anyway.' He thought grumpily.
"Draco dear, should I call St. Mungo's?" A light amused voice from behind him snapped him out of his daze. He quickly stood straight, trying to regain what little dignity he had left from being caught in such a position, and turned to his mother. She gasped as she noticed his appearance. Draco cursed inwardly, he had completely forgotten to heal himself and fix his appearance.
"Draco, what happened?" She asked worriedly as she rushed over to him.
"Nothing major mother." He muttered while trying to bat away her hands. She was searching for more injuries therefore irritating the ones he already had. "Mother!" He said as sternly as he could when he realised she wouldn't let up. He watched warily as she abruptly stopped and stepped away from him. Before he could say anything she waved her wand in a wide arch and he immediately felt the effects of the healing spell.
"Thanks mother. I'm sorry." He said giving her a grateful smile.
"It's okay dear." She said softly. "I'm guessing this is somehow connected to you staring into the fireplace. Are you sure you don't want me to call St. Mungo's?" She asked, the teasing lilt again present in her voice. Only his mother could recover so quickly.
"That would not be necessary mother." He said with feigned annoyance. He chuckled as her blue eyes danced with laughter.
"Well then come along. Dinner is served." She said with an infuriating smile on her face. He nodded and followed her as they went to the family dining room.
'Mother and Blaise will constantly tease me now.' He thought reluctantly as he sat down to a delicious dinner. His mind swung to Harry. He hoped his raven would eat something tonight. He doubted it though, and that worried him even more.
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Draco woke the next morning to the sun shining brightly and birds singing happily. A total contrast to his current mood, which was dark and worried. He had only fallen asleep about two hours ago. His night had been filled with tossing and turning as he worried about Harry. All sorts of morbid thoughts had plagued his mind. Sighing, he got up and prepared himself for the day. There was nothing that could change his mood. Well nothing short of Harry appearing at his manor again.
He finished his morning ablutions and apparated to the dining room. His mother was already sitting there, apparently waiting for him. A frown appeared on her face as she looked at him. He knew he looked a sight, he had tried to look presentable enough but his heart just wasn't in it. Yes, Draco Malfoy for once in his life did not care about his appearance. He muttered good morning and gave her a light kiss on her cheek before sitting down at his place.
Methodically, he began to pile food onto his plate. His mind once again strayed to Harry and wondered if he was currently eating. After he had finished filling his plate with whatever his hand had touched, he sighed and gently picked up his cup of tea. He was just about to take a sip when a flutter of wings caught his attention. He glanced up as a grey barn owl flew through the window with what appeared to be the Daily Prophet in its claws. He grabbed the paper as the owl reached him and placed the coins in the pouch. Another sigh escaped him as he stared at the rolled up newspaper, wondering if he should read it. He ignored his mother's worried and questioning gaze as he finally unrolled the newspaper. The sip of tea he had taken at the same time was promptly spat out all over the table as he took in the front page of the Daily Prophet. There was a huge picture of Ginevra (previously) Potter and McLaggen in all their naked glory, trying to cover up themselves as people around them either stood staring in shock or pointing and obviously laughing uncontrollably. The two were in front of the Daily Prophet office in Diagon Alley. The fact that the Daily Prophet had the decency to blur out the private parts didn't take away from the hilarity of it all. Draco couldn't help it. He threw his head back and laughed, and laughed, and laughed. He laughed until his ribs hurt and he had slight trouble breathing. After he had finally stopped laughing and had gotten his breathing under control, he glanced at the picture again and emitted small chuckles as he read the headlines.
'Potter Betrayed? Angry Saviour Ousts Cheating Wife and Cuckolding McLaggen'
"Draco?" His mother's questioning voice caused his head to snap up and look at her. Her brow rose at the tears of mirth he could feel running down his cheeks. Draco didn't think he could speak yet so he just thrust the paper face up at her. All it took was his mother's muttered 'Oh my' and her blue eyes to widen dramatically for Draco to explode in laughter again. It was so perfect. A chuckle had him glancing at his mother again and he was surprised to see her shoulders shake and tears of mirth flow from her eyes as well. His Harry had done this. He felt so much pride for his little raven. Draco wasn't sure if Harry meant to send them there or not but he knew it had to be some part of his subconscious mind. 'And here I thought I would be depressed all morning.' He thought wryly. He smiled as his mother folded the newspaper and continued eating, chuckling occasionally. They both ate for a while before his mother spoke again.
"Hmmm. Such a nice young man to have to go through that. I wonder how he is coping. From your appearance yesterday I'm guessing it is tied with this?" She murmured sipping her tea. Draco knew she was fishing for information but he had none to give.
"Yes mother, Harry was here yesterday and his magic was understandably unstable due to his emotions. However, I believe he will deal with it in his own way." He said before returning to his breakfast. Effectively ending the conversation.
They both finished a little while later and Draco headed to his study whilst his mother went to wherever she usually did. He sat in his armchair and opened the newspaper he had brought with him. He chuckled again at the headline and read the story. Draco was extremely glad the Weaselette was exposed in such a manner. For the entire Wizarding world to see she had been caught in the act, the thing she craved most was exactly what was going to destroy her. She had always craved attention, she would get it now and Draco was only planning to make it worse. After he had finished reading the amusing yet perfectly degrading article, he sat back to think. While it was good that the bitch and McLaggen were humiliated in such a way, Draco wondered how the two younger Potters would react to seeing it. He knew Harry would've notified them that something might be in the newspapers but actually seeing it and having to endure the backlash was terrible. Harry couldn't even pull them from school temporarily because final exams were close. He really hoped they had the strength that their father had. Thinking about that brought the conversation he had with Blaise to his mind. He really hoped Blaise would be able to get the information he needed and soon.
DM*DM*DM*DM*
It was a week after the Potter Family Scandal and Draco was extremely worried and agitated. He had not heard from Harry at all. He had sent countless letters simply asking if he was okay but they all returned unopened. He was also becoming frustrated. Yes, Harry was hurt and angry but that was no excuse to hole himself up for so long. He had to face the world eventually. Draco knew Harry was at Grimmauld Place. In fact, the entire Wizarding world knew that. All the various newspapers had jumped at the chance of covering such a scandal and had spent almost every waking moment writing about it. They had all camped outside of Grimmauld Place behind charms in an attempt to get a picture of the 'grieving saviour'. They had given up after a while though, they had finally figured out what Draco already knew; Harry Potter was a stubborn bastard. Everyone was still searching for the She-Weasel and McShagging. The two had not been seen after their debut at Diagon Alley. Draco wasn't worried, they had to emerge sometime and he was a snake, he would strike unexpectedly as soon as they did.
He sighed, he had to do something about Harry. He would not allow his brunette to destroy himself over that worthless bitch. Albus and James were suffering as well it seemed. Scorpius had written to him that James was acting out, though thankfully not at Albus. Albus was just worried. According to Scorpius, letters Albus had written to his father also went unanswered. It was that, that bothered Draco the most. Harry had to be really down to ignore letters from Albus.
He was just walking to get a glass of Ogden's when he heard a tapping sound. He automatically glanced at the window to see a grey eagle owl with a letter in its claws. He quickly shoved away the intense disappointment that it wasn't the beautiful black owl he wanted to see. Grabbing his wand, Draco flicked it at the window, vanishing the glass so the owl could enter. The owl quickly flew and dropped the letter in his outstretched hand then flew back out the window obviously not needing a reply. He replaced the glass with a muttered spell and a quick flick of his wand then sat on his armchair, the glass of Ogden's completely forgotten. He looked at the letter and frowned slightly, the writing was unfamiliar. Shrugging slightly, he opened the letter and was shocked.
'Dear Mr. Malfoy,
This is Albus. I'm writing this because I'm really worried about my dad. I tried writing to him but all my letters have returned unopened. I'm really scared Mr. Malfoy. There was a time dad was really depressed and I knew, even though he didn't tell me, that it was because of mom. I don't know how he is but I know that he's all alone. I chose you to send this to because you were the one to make dad smile again. Maybe you could try and he'll open up to you. Please Mr. Malfoy. I don't want anything to happen to my dad. I don't want him to be all alone. Please.
Albus Potter.'
Draco's heart broke as he finished reading the letter. The fear and worry were practically pouring from the letter, not to mention the countless tear stains. His frustration at the entire situation overwhelmed him. He was not allowing Harry to continue with his self-imposed seclusion. He could only imagine the state the children would be when they returned to see their father in such a depressing state. He was going to put an end to it...today. Draco angrily shoved the letter into his robe pocket and immediately apparated to his front door. There he put up a strong Disillusionment charm on himself, exited the manor and apparated outside Grimmauld place. As he walked up to the house that only magical folk could see, he could feel the buzz of the powerful wards surrounding number 12. He walked up right to the edge of the wards where he knew Harry would be able to sense a presence. He immediately sent out his magical signature so Harry would know it was him.
He waited for a few minutes but there was no indication that he was allowed in. Draco wasn't giving up so easily, he had allowed this to go on for too long. He kept prodding at the wards with his magic hoping that Harry would get annoyed and grant him entrance soon. However, it seemed he had momentarily forgotten how stubborn Harry was.
Draco ground his teeth in anger as he kept prodding the wards. It felt like he had been at it for more than a bloody hour! He leaned forward to send a strong burst of magic to show his annoyance but at that moment a hole suddenly appeared in the ward causing Draco to fall through and fall flat on his face. He quickly got up, straightened and dusted off his robes, cancelled the Disillusionment charm then marched up the small walkway to the front door. He vaguely felt the magic as the hole in the ward disappeared. When he had arrived at the front door, he reached forward to grasp the door knob, but before he could, it was moved away from him as the door was yanked open. With immense self-control he managed to not scream in frustration when his face yet again, connected with the floor. He quickly composed himself and with great dignity even he didn't know he had, got off the floor and again fixed his clothing. Draco looked around to see a dishevelled Harry staring back at him with dead, bloodshot eyes.
"Harry..."
"What the fuck do you want Malfoy?" Harry growled out, his voice gravelly with lack of use. Draco was momentarily shocked by the tone of the question and the question itself. He was more surprised that Harry had slipped back into the use of his last name. He bristled, and then took a deep breath. He had to remember that Harry was hurting.
"Harry, I know how you fe..."
"Bullshit!" Harry exploded and Draco had to fight to keep from exploding as well. "You don't know shit about how I feel! None of you know how I feel. Why can't you all just leave me alone!" Harry continued shouting. He had slammed the door closed and had stormed into the living room, Draco followed a few paces behind him. His own ire growing.
"Harry how can you say those things? We are not going to leave you alone. We all care about you. You cannot continue like this Harry!" Draco said, his voice rising though not quite shouting.
"Yes I can! I don't give a shit okay? Why can't I just wallow in my fucking self-pity?"
"Because that's pathetic and you're not the only one affected by all this you fucking idiot!" Draco finally exploded. He knew Harry was angry, that he was hurt and just acting out but clearly the 'nice' approach wasn't working. "Do you know what I got today?" He continued but he didn't wait for a reply. "Albus, you know your eleven year old son, wrote me a letter Harry. Me! Filled with tear stains, begging me to talk to you because he's worried and scared. Is that what you want Harry? Is that it?" He finished and he yanked the letter out of his pocket and threw it Harry.
He watched as with trembling hands Harry caught the gently floating parchment before falling onto a nearby chair. He looked on silently as Harry seemed to curl in on himself as he read. Draco felt his heart squeeze painfully as Harry looked up at him, those green, green eyes filled pain and guilt. His previous feelings of anger, worry and frustration vanished and he just walked over, sat next to Harry and wrapped his arms around the smaller man. It didn't take longer than a second for Harry to completely break down. Draco just held him as Harry cried his heart out, his hands gripping his robes for dear life. He began to rub soothing circles on Harry's back, all the while whispering 'it's okay' into his hair.
They stayed like that for an hour before Harry's sobs finally tapered off. He said nothing as Harry finally shifted and looked up at him with red rimmed eyes.
"Thanks." He muttered, giving a watery smile. "I'm sorry about your robes." He added. Draco just watched him and smiled letting Harry know that all was forgiven. He reluctantly dropped his arms as Harry moved to get up. Draco thought Harry was uncomfortable when he left the room but he soon realised that wasn't the case when he returned with two glasses and a bottle of Firewhiskey. Harry poured for the both of them before returning to his seat next to Draco. The two sat in silence, sipping their drink occasionally.
"I'm really stupid aren't I?" Harry whispered suddenly. "I can't believe I actually thought our relationship was getting better. They must've had some pretty great laughs at my expense." He continued bitterly.
"You're not stupid Harry." Draco said just as softly, turning to face his forlorn companion. He hated the fact that Harry kept degrading himself. "You trusted her and she played on that. Don't blame yourself for her fuck up Harry."
"I know that Draco but at the same time I keep wanting to beat myself up." Harry muttered and Draco knew he was frustrated and that it would take a while before Harry would be able to stop blaming himself.
"I understand. Everything will be okay Harry. You'll see and I'll be here for you. Always." He said with a small smile, it grew slightly when he saw Harry give a slight one in return.
"So" he began, to create a better mood, "In front of the Daily Prophet eh? Pretty impressive." He teased, watching with pleasure as Harry blushed and looked slightly sheepish.
"Honestly, I didn't mean to send them there exactly. I just wanted them to go somewhere they would be seen and recognized." Harry said with a small laugh. Draco chuckled.
"I laughed uncontrollably when I saw it. Even mother was openly laughing and that's a feat only few can accomplish." Draco replied and watched with satisfaction as Harry blushed profusely. That blush was doing things to Draco that shouldn't be happening at that moment. He kept thinking of that red flush on another part of his raven's delicious body. He almost groaned aloud when his cock swelled slightly. 'This is not the time Draco.' He thought to himself before conjuring the 'Astoria image' in his mind. Naturally, it was successful.
They talked about mundane things for a while. Draco also encouraged Harry to write to Albus as soon as possible to ease his worries and Harry agreed.
"I've worried a lot of people haven't I?" He heard Harry mumble.
"Yeah you did but I don't think anyone will blame you Harry." Draco tried to reassure him.
"I don't know Draco. I completely blew up at Ron and Hermione, accusing them of knowing all along. I just felt like they knew something."
"Harry, you were hurt and confused. They are your best friends, I'm sure they will understand. You're calmer now so you'll be able to talk to them and sort everything out. Now, enough of all this sad talk. Tell me how you plan to grovel at my feet and beg for forgiveness. Don't think I've forgotten about earlier, my precious face still hurts." Draco said in his best haughty voice, nose high in the air. He was very pleased to be rewarded with a hearty laugh from Harry. He planned to make it happen more often now.
Soon, they were again sitting in silence, sipping on their Firewhiskey and listening to the crackle of the fire Harry had recently lit in an attempt to brighten the dreary room. Draco wasn't surprised that he hadn't run screaming when he noticed the condition Grimmauld Place was in. For the past week, he had not been himself, all his attention was focused on the gorgeous raven haired man sitting next to him. He turned to face said man.
"Harry? If you don't mind my asking, what are you going to do now?" Draco asked. His breath caught as those brilliant emeralds stared back at him, aflame with anger.
"I'm going to divorce that bitch and make her life hell." Harry said harshly and Draco felt a shot of pleasure course through him at the conviction in Harry voice. The bitch was going down at last.
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Better Late Than Never