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
- 6
- 7
- 8
•••••••••DISCLAIMER: I do not own Harry Potter and it's associated characters etc. All belongs to J.K Rowling and Warner Bros.
A/N: ... I am extremely sorry for the wait. :(. Special thanks to djaddict, this chap would've been terrible without her :D. Anyway, Hope you guys enjoy this one!
All remaining mistakes are mine.
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Harry woke up the morning after Draco broke through his wall of self-pity, on a soft bed and covered with a blanket that obviously contained a heating charm. He frowned in confusion, he didn't remember walking upstairs to the bedrooms. He sat up and looked around himself and realised he was still in the living room, it was only then he figured out Draco must have transfigured some things in the room. He could vaguely remember Draco pestering him about getting some sleep. The two of them had talked well into the night about random topics. In those moments, he had forgotten all about his problems as they talked and laughed. However, Draco wasn't there now so Harry was all alone and as if a switch suddenly turned on in his head, memories from a week ago started flooding through. He fought to stay in control, he wouldn't let them overwhelm him this time. Harry sat at the edge of bed, held his head in his hands and just took slow deep breaths. As each memory surfaced, he sorted through it and the emotions that came along with it. He didn't know how long he was at it for but at the end his head felt calmer and his heart felt lighter. He felt that he would be able to keep calm enough to talk about what happened to anyone. Of course it would still hurt and it would take time, but at least he was slowly beginning to accept it. His marriage was over. There was no way he was getting back with Ginevra.

With a soft grunt, he got off the bed and quickly transfigured it and the blanket back to their original state with a wave of his hand. He then went upstairs to take a much needed warm, relaxing bath, after he spent a couple of minutes tidying the bathroom of course. An hour later he had finished his bath and was currently in the kitchen feeling relaxed and clean...finally. He couldn't understand how Draco was able to be in his presence with the horrible state he was in yesterday. His nose wrinkled as he remembered that he had to change the bath water at least twice before he felt properly clean. Harry was glad he had some clothes at Grimmauld, all he had to do to make them usable was a few adjustments, particularly in size, length and style.

Harry cast a quick 'Tempus', and groaned when he realised it was almost 12:30. No wonder he was so hungry. It was made worse by the fact that there was nothing edible at Grimmauld Place, well to someone who didn't have a death wish anyway. He plopped down on one of the chairs at the table and propped his chin on his hand. He was contemplating what muggle restaurant to apparate to when an idea popped into his head. He whistled softly and a few seconds later, a flutter of wings could be heard before his beautiful owl, Erotes, soared into the kitchen. Erotes had found him at Grimmauld a few days after his self-seclusion began. He ruffled the black feathers and allowed the owl to perch on the back of his chair. Harry flicked his wrist and summoned parchment, quill and ink from wherever in the house they were and penned a short letter to Draco asking him out to lunch at a muggle restaurant. He told Erotes to wait for a reply and sent the letter off.
He really didn't want to be at Grimmauld all day and he didn't want to go to lunch all alone. Sighing, he sat back in the chair and waited for the reply. His mind swung to Albus so he decided to write to him whilst he waited for Erotes’ return. In the letter, he apologized for worrying him and explained lightly what he was going through at the time. He really hoped Al would understand. Erotes returned twenty minutes later with the blonde’s reply. It stated that he was currently busy but that Harry could have dinner with him at the manor at 7 if he was available. Harry smiled when he finished reading it, he didn't mind. The manor was private enough and he would still have company. He sent an affirmative reply with his owl.

Erotes returned some minutes later with a package in his claws. Harry's brows furrowed in confusion before he gently retrieved the package from the owl's claws. Stuck at the top of the package was a little note and Harry smiled when he noticed Draco's handwriting. 'Thought you might need this. Enjoy. See you soon Harry.' He put the note aside and opened the brown wrapping paper to see a small box that had obviously been shrank. Muttering the counter spell, he watched as the box grew to its original size. It was huge! He hurriedly opened the box and gasped. It was filled with food. Scones, pancakes, eggs and bacon, all with strong preservation and heating charms. The scents wafting from the food in front him had his mouth watering. He quickly summoned and scourgified a few plates, a cup and silverware. Harry piled his plate with pancakes and eggs and filled the cup with tea. He placed some bacon in a plate for Erotes then began to eat.

After the amazing breakfast, Harry sent Erotes off with the letter for Albus. He packed away the remaining food, redoing the preservation and heating charms. When he finished tidying up the kitchen, he realised he had nothing to do. He retreated to the living room and sat in an armchair. Harry absently drummed his fingers on the armrest as he thought about what to do then he got an idea.

He got off the chair and with a soft crack apparated straight into the living room of Godric's Hollow. He did a quick look around the house and noticed that everything was in place. Obviously, Ginevra hadn't come back. However, he wasn't too sure it would remain that way. He went down to the fireplace and immediately changed the password to the floo and locked access. Then, he stood just outside the front door and began strengthening the wards. They were similar to that of Grimmauld, no one but him was allowed in. He had added a few extra to it though, his soon to be ex-wife would get a nasty surprise if she ever tried to step foot near the house. He briefly wondered why she hadn't already then figured she was too ashamed to show her face. Over an hour later he had finished the wards and he was exhausted but he had something else to do.

He went to the downstairs bathroom and stood in front of the mirror. Harry waved his hand over himself and muttered a long spell. When he was finished, he had the perfect glamour in place. He had made himself taller with chestnut brown hair and hazel eyes. His clothing had been transfigured to something more presentable. Harry checked himself in the mirror then apparated to Diagon Alley. With quick steps, Harry walked straight to Gringotts and spoke quietly to one of the goblins. He was escorted to one of their offices and had to give blood to prove his identity before all his changes were made. When Harry left the bank that afternoon, he had a skip in his step. Ginevra now had no access to any of the Potter vaults, not even the children's trust vaults.

He made some detours into some clothing stores to purchase new clothing since he had burned his, as well as all of hers, in his rage. At 3:00 he was finished and didn't want to return to the Hollow so he apparated to the Burrow with his shrunken items. He had briefly entertained the thought of going to Ron and Hermione's but he wasn't ready to see them yet. His appearance returned to normal when he waved his hand over himself again and muttered the counter spell, then he strode to the back door of his adopted home.

As soon as he stepped into the kitchen, Harry couldn't help the smile that bloomed on his face. Molly was busy tidying up the kitchen while Arthur sat at the table reading the newspaper and sipping a cup of tea. The house was remarkably quiet so Harry suspected the impromptu daycare centre was closed for a while.

"Harry!" He heard before he was crushed to an ample bosom. "Oh my! Look at you! You're skin and bones! Have you eaten yet? What have you been doing all this time? How have you been? Is everything o-"

"Molly!" A sharp male voice interrupted the Weasley matriarch's barrage of questions. "Let him breathe!" The voice continued exasperatedly.

"Oh Harry dear, I'm so sorry!" Molly apologised but Harry couldn’t answer as he was still trying to process everything. He was still reeling from the bone-crushing hug and the litany of questions. "Harry?"

"You've broken him Molly." The voice that Harry now realised was Arthur's, said with a chuckle. Harry was led to a chair, he shook his head and smiled when he was finally able to get his bearings.

"Are you okay now?" Molly asked him softly and his smile widened.

"I'm fine mum. Just the hug and all the questions threw me off balance a bit." He said still smiling. "Anyway, enough worrying about me. How are you two doing?" He asked conversationally.

"We are doing great Harry. However, and I'm sorry to bring this up, we uh, wanted to know what really happened between you and Ginny. All we know is what the papers are reporting and we all know how reliable they can be." Arthur said sarcastically. Harry told them what happened, of course leaving out some details. He didn't think they'd want to know what exactly he saw Ginevra doing.

"I don't understand it. Why would Ginny do something like that?" Molly asked and no one knew the answer to that. "Well, all we can do now is see how it goes from here. As I told you before Harry, whatever decision you make, we are behind you one hundred percent." She said with a comforting smile. He saw Mr. Weasley nod in agreement and his chest swelled with happiness. This were still his family.

"How are you coping with all this Harry, if you don't mind my asking?" Arthur inquired.

"It's still difficult but I've found a way to deal with it." Harry told him quietly.

"I'm glad. You scared us all when you went into seclusion, but we understood that you needed time." Arthur stated and Harry smiled.

"How's Lily?" He asked and stiffened slightly when he saw the look that passed between the couple. He hated those bloody looks.

"She's not taking this well Harry. She has been crying herself to sleep ever since I told her about you two. I've tried everything. She is worried about Ginny and keeps asking for her." Molly said sadly. Harry sighed.

"Is she awake? I'll try to talk to her."

"She is. She is in Ginny's old room." Arthur told him. He nodded at them then went to talk to Lily, hoping she would listen to him.

When he reached the room Harry took a deep breath before opening it. The first thing he saw was his daughter's tiny back as she lay facing away from the door. He gently closed the door and sighed inaudibly before approaching the bed. He sat down by Lily's feet and stayed quiet for a moment, thinking of what he should say. She was staring at the wall and sniffling occasionally. Harry's heart ached.

"Lil-"

"I don't want to talk to you." She said before he could finish speaking. He stopped in shock before trying again.

"Lily I-"

"I said I don't want to talk to you!" She shouted, still not looking at him. Harry clenched his jaw to calm himself. He would not shout at her right now.

"Lily we need to talk, so stop this behaviour this instant." He said sternly. "Now I-".

"Why won't you just leave me alone? I want mummy not you! Where is she?" She asked, and this time she sat up to face him, tears streaming down her face.

"Lily your mother cannot be here right now."

"That's because you sent her away! You aren't together anymore because you kept going out with that stupid blond man even when mummy said not to. You pushed her away! It's all your fault!" She screamed at him and Harry could only sit there staring at her, her tiny body heaving in her anger.

"Lily I do not expect you to understand completely what is happening right now but you do not make statements like that. Do you hear me? I did not push your mother away. Something happened between us and that is why we are separated right now." He told her, his voice strained with forced patience.

"Something YOU did! The both of you were always arguing and it was always something you did. Mummy's gone because of you!" She accused and Harry had finally had enough. His daughter was not allowed to speak to him that way.

"Lily Luna Potter! I am your father, you do not speak to me in that tone or manner. Is that understood?" He asked firmly and as a testament of the great relationship he had with his only daughter, she stared him right in the eye and quite viciously for a nine year old, declared "I hate you." Then promptly laid back down on the bed and ignored him yet again.

Harry must have sat there for a good few minutes trying to figure out what just happened. After a few unsuccessful tries at gaining Lily's attention, he admitted defeat and left the room. He headed to the living room where he found Molly and Arthur. He could tell from the sympathetic looks on their faces that they had either heard the conversation or the hurt he was feeling was clear as day on his face, or maybe even both. Harry knew he was never close to his daughter but her hateful words still cut through him like a sharp knife. It was as if she really meant those three words. He collapsed into one of the comfortable, worn chairs and just stared at the fire dancing merrily in the fireplace. He was grateful that the other two occupants in the room gave him space and didn't ask questions.

He didn't know how long he sat there but Molly eventually roused him from his dazed state and asked if he was staying for dinner. It was only then he remembered he was supposed to have dinner with Draco at the manor. He told her that he already had a previous engagement. He cast a quick ‘Tempus’ and almost cursed at the time. It was 6:15! They walked to the kitchen door where he said goodbye to Arthur and Molly, giving the latter a hug and a light kiss on her cheek. Molly shoved a dish of Shepherd's pie into his hands, muttering about 'fattening him up' before ushering him out the door. He promised them that he would keep in contact and keep them updated. He thanked Molly for taking care of Lily and then walked briskly to the apparition point and apparated to Godric's Hollow.

As soon as he reached the house, he cast another ‘Tempus’ and gasped. Fifteen minutes had already passed. He quickly sent the shepherd's pie to the fridge. He briefly remembered the food he packed away at Grimmauld Place and made a mental note to retrieve it, though he highly doubted he would remember later on. Harry practically ran to the bathroom and took a quick shower. He dressed in a black turtle neck sweater and fitted black dress pants with the leather shoes he loved to wear. He knew he had no hope with his hair so he just left it. He checked his appearance in the bathroom mirror and was satisfied. Another final ‘Tempus’ told him it was 6:55, glad he was at least a little early, Harry apparated and arrived in front of the lavish Malfoy manor a few seconds later.
Harry wasn't surprised to see Draco waiting for him when he arrived. He smiled and greeted the other man as he was allowed through the wards. As they walked, he cast discreet sidelong glances at the blond and noted that Draco looked stunning as usual. Draco had foregone robes and had dressed casually, he wore a cerulean coloured shirt that fit perfectly across his broad shoulders and showed his defined chest, charcoal-grey dress pants and dragonhide shoes. Harry's eyes travelled back up to Draco's handsome face and his eyes widened slightly when he realised Draco was watching him and had obviously been aware of his perusal. The mercury eyes were glittering with amusement and some other emotion he could not name. He turned his head slightly so Draco couldn't see the blush already creeping up his face. In a few more strides they reached the massive front doors of the manor and they opened quietly and allowed them entry. Harry gasped softy as he took in the entrance hall. It was beautiful. The last time he had been here, he was too distraught to really notice anything. There was a huge crystal chandelier, the many candles casting a fantastic glow on the cream coloured walls and pillars.

"Draco this is beautiful." Harry breathed in an awed voice.

"Thank you Harry. Mother and I tried our best to brighten the manor after father died." Draco said quietly.

"Well you guys obviously did an amazing job." Harry commented with a soft chuckle. He glanced at Draco and saw a huge, pleased smile on the other man's face, his heart skipped at the sight. He returned the smile with one of his own and was pleased to see Draco's eyes light up.

'Godric, I want to see that more often.' He thought to himself, then he mentally shook himself. He really shouldn't be thinking like that right now.

"Harry?" Draco's voice pierced through his thoughts and he jerked slightly.

"Hmm?"

Let's go to the family dining room." Draco said and Harry could see the concern on his face.

"Oh. Okay." He replied with a smile, letting Draco know that everything was okay. The other man gave a short nod and they continued through the manor.

Harry listened attentively as Draco showed him the different rooms on the way to their destination. It wasn't too long after that they came upon another set of double doors and Draco opened them to reveal another beautifully decorated room. Another chandelier, though smaller than the first one, hung from the center of the ceiling, lighting the entire room with a soft glow. Harry was so taken by the beauty of the room that he didn't notice there was another occupant in it. It was only when Draco led him to his seat that he noticed Narcissa Malfoy sitting across from him. Harry stared for a few seconds before he remembered his manners.

"Good evening Mrs. Malfoy." He said, reaching his hand forward to clasp hers. She smiled slightly as he kissed her hand lightly.

"Good evening Mr. Potter." She replied with a small smile and Harry immediately relaxed, though just a bit. 'Draco could've told me his mother would be here.' He thought grumpily to himself.

"...you doing here mother?" He heard Draco ask. He didn't catch the first part of the question but he deduced that Draco was as surprised as him.

"Blaize’s mother cancelled our trip." Mrs. Malfoy simply stated.

Draco nodded and then gave him an apologetic look before the blond pulled out his chair for him. Harry didn't mind the gesture and sat down. He smiled when Draco easily pushed his chair forward and he fought to stop his brain from focusing on how strong Draco was. A barely audible noise across from him had him glancing up at Mrs. Malfoy to see she was fighting not to laugh and her blue eyes regarded him with a teasing glint. Apparently his thoughts were easily discernible. He could feel another blush creep up his face, so he bowed his head and prayed no one noticed.

"Something wrong mother?" Draco asked. The question was obviously aimed at Mrs. Malfoy but Harry could practically feel Draco's questioning gaze on him.

"No dear." She replied and Harry didn't miss the laughter in her voice.

He looked up at Draco just as the grey eyed man opened his mouth to ask him something, but at that moment the food appeared on the table. Harry gave a small sigh of relief and started placing food on his plate, blatantly ignoring another questioning look Draco threw his way. The trio ate in comfortable silence, the only sounds coming from cutlery on plates. Harry thought the food was amazing. Eventually, they finished the main meal and table was cleared. They sat quietly as they waited for dessert.

"So Mr. Potter, if you don't mind my asking, how have you been?" The blonde woman asked, breaking the silence.

"I’ve been relatively okay, Mrs. Malfoy. Thank you for asking." Harry replied politely. "And please, call me Harry." He added.

"As long as you refer to me as Narcissa, Harry.” She replied and after a brief pause added. “I must say, that Daily Prophet idea was absolutely ingenious." Harry couldn't stop a small snicker from escaping.

"Served them right." He said vindictively and they all laughed. Soon after dessert appeared and Harry's eyes lit up when he saw the treacle tart. He sent a happy, grateful smile at Draco and dug in, politely of course.

After the amazing dinner they all retreated to what Harry now knew was the family living room. They talked for about an hour before Narcissa excused herself and left the two men alone. Harry was truly surprised at the side of Narcissa he had just seen. He realised then, the strong influence Lucius had had on his wife and son. He had thought there would have been tension, but there wasn't any. Narcissa made him feel welcome. Harry could see that Draco was pleased as well as relieved. From the apologetic look Draco gave him earlier, Harry knew that the other man also thought there would be some tension.

"What are you thinking about Harry?" Draco's deep voice broke through his thoughts.

"How you and your mother seem more carefree now." He answered truthfully with a smile.

"We truly are. With father gone, there is nothing to prevent us from being ourselves, amongst family of course. We also didn't want Scorpius to grow up the same way I did." Draco told him. Harry nodded in agreement.

"That's great Draco. I can see what a great job you've done." Harry commented, thinking back on the zoo trip. Draco gave him another bright smile and they lapsed into a comfortable silence. As they sat there, Harry thought about what happened with Lily earlier. He wanted to talk to Draco about it but he didn't want to seem like he was burdening the blond with his problems.

"What's wrong Harry? I can practically see you arguing with yourself." Draco suddenly said, and Harry turned to him, eyes wide. Was he that obvious? "Harry, I'm the only one who was always able to get under your skin at Hogwarts. You honestly think I can’t see everything you feel on your face?" The light-haired man asked seriously. Harry thought about it and he realised Draco was right. "Now, I told you I'd always be here for you. What's bothering you?"

"I spoke to Lily today." Harry began with a resigned sigh. A pang of hurt shot through his chest as he remembered her words. "She said everything was my fault and that she-she hated me." He mumbled miserably. He felt so stupid to be taking it so much to heart, he was sure a lot of children told their parents that and they didn't mean it. However, he kept replaying it and the way Lily said it made him feel like she meant it, with all her heart.

"Harry!" Draco's voice called out to him and he felt a slight shake on his shoulder. He looked up to see Draco's grey eyes filled with concern. Looks like he had zoned out again. "Harry, I know you may be hurt right now but children say that to their parents all the time. I'm sure she didn't mean it." Draco told him but Harry couldn't help the sneaking suspicion that the blond didn't really believe it either.

"I keep telling myself that Draco. But you weren't there, you didn't see her face when she said it or how she said it. I can't help but feel like she really meant it." He confided to the grey eyed man next to him.

"I know I wasn't there Harry but thinking about it like that will only make you feel worse. Just give her time okay?"

"Okay." He simply replied.

"Now, have you gotten anything from James and how about Albus?" Draco asked and Harry was grateful that the conversation was off of Lily.

"James hasn't written to anyone that I know of and I honestly didn't expect him to. He usually only writes to Ginevra. And well, I wrote to Albus today. Haven't gotten a reply yet. I still feel terrible about worrying him."

"Hmmm. I hope you hear from James soon and you shouldn’t worry about Albus, Harry. From what I gathered, it seems he is the one that understands you the most. It will be alright." Draco assured him, his deep, sure voice soothing Harry's unsaid worries. A sudden chiming alerted Harry's attention to a grandfather clock he didn't notice before, in a corner of the room. His eyes widened in shock, it was after 12! Where had the time gone?

"I should be going. It's pretty late." He muttered to Draco, getting up off the chair. He didn't want to leave. He didn't want to return to Godric's Hollow. It was too lonely.

"You don't have to go Harry." Draco uttered softly as if reading Harry's mind. Harry just looked at him in confusion. "The manor has many rooms. You can stay the night if you like. I have no problem with it." Draco continued in a slightly cautious voice as if afraid Harry would suddenly bolt. Harry honestly didn't know what to say. On one hand, he didn't want to go back to the empty house, but on the other hand he felt awkward accepting the invitation, and he was unsure why. He just stood there trying to decide and he noticed Draco shifting subtly as if nervous.

'This is new. I've never seen Draco nervous. It's kind of cute!' He thought to himself. Then he smiled softly, his mind was made up.

"Okay Draco. I'll take you up on your invitation. He agreed and gasped slightly as Draco suddenly stepped closer to him. Harry's heartbeat increased rapidly.

"Excellent! We have to apparate to the quarters because it’s on the second floor and I have no intention of walking there." Draco stated and Harry could only nod his head. Draco this close to him, with his dizzying cologne had his mind fizzling out. He let out another gasp as Draco abruptly grabbed his upper right arm and pulled him against his strong body. "Hold on Harry". The blond whispered and Harry had just enough time to grip onto the front of Draco's shirt before he felt the squeezing sensation of apparition. Two seconds later they landed in a dark hallway that was immediately lit up as torches along the wall ignited. They didn't separate and Harry belatedly realised that he didn't want them to. A tight squeeze on his arm made him look up at the taller man. Those mercury eyes were staring into his with such intensity, Harry just wanted to melt into them. Harry didn't know how long they stood there staring at each other but it was perfect. However, the moment was soon broken as one of the torches flickered, catching both men's attention and effectively breaking their staring match. He immediately stepped back feeling slightly horrified. Even though everything with Ginevra had fallen apart, he was still married. Draco's hand immediately dropped and they both stood silently till Draco shifted uncomfortably and cleared his throat.

"This-this is your room Harry. My room is right next to it if you need anything." The blond said, his voice deeper than usual, causing an involuntary shiver to course through Harry. The other man's face was flushed and Harry knew his own was similar. He quickly nodded and whispered good night before practically dashing into the room.

'This is wrong isn't it?' He asked himself. 'I'm supposed to be mourning the loss of my marriage right?' The questions flowed through his head and Harry realised he had no answers to them. With a heavy sigh, he stripped to his boxers and made himself comfortable on the bed, resigned to another sleepless night. He was asleep within minutes.

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Draco lay on his bed, his heart beating a mile a minute as he thought about what almost happened in the hallway. He had let his feelings get in the way of rational thought. Some part of his mind was screaming at him to move away but looking into those glittering emeralds, Draco knew all was lost. He had just wanted to lean down and capture those perfect, tempting lips. He had completely forgotten that he wasn't supposed to push Harry, especially when the brunet's feelings were so confused. Draco sighed, he had seen the horrified expression on Harry's face, and he really hoped the other man wasn't beating himself up. He also hoped what happened didn't make things awkward between them.
Taking his mind off the previous events, he turned his thoughts to the past two days. He was glad that he had gone over to Grimmauld Place to get Harry out of his depression. It was good that Harry had finally broken down and cried it all out, he hoped it would cause his heart to recover. Even though Draco had a suspicion that Harry didn’t actually love Ginny as much as he thought he did, there had to have been something there and it would obviously hurt a lot now that it was over. A warm feeling bloomed in his chest when he remembered Albus' words in his letter 'you were the one to make dad smile again'. It felt great that he had that effect on his raven and he planned to keep it that way. Thinking more about Albus' letter, he smiled. He felt extremely happy that Albus had confided in him because it showed Draco that the younger Potter trusted him. He had not been expecting that at all.

Draco wasn't surprised when he'd gotten the letter from Harry inviting him to lunch, he'd figured that the dark haired man wouldn't want to remain holed up by himself. He really wished he could have said yes then but he had been busy sorting out some files for his company. They didn't have any current cases so he had decided to use the time wisely.

Later on that evening when Harry arrived for dinner, his throat had gone dry. The other man looked so delicious in his outfit. At dinner he knew some sort of interaction occurred between his mother and Harry but he had no clue what it was about. He noticed his mother watching Harry with that teasing look and had seen a blush creeping up on Harry's face. Draco was glad though that there was no tension. Yes, Narcissa and Harry had no ill will towards each other but he thought there would be some awkwardness. The atmosphere at the table could have only been described as comfortable. He wished it could happen more often, preferably with Albus and Scorpius present. They would look like the perfect little family.

He also enjoyed spending a little time with Harry after dinner. Draco was more surprised than Harry that he had asked him to stay over. The joy he felt when Harry agreed was enough to make him skip around the room. He chuckled lightly in the dark room as he remembered that moment.

The fact that Harry was right next to him, just a room away was enough to drive him insane. He had to keep reminding himself that Harry needed time, especially after what happened tonight. He would wait though, he would always wait.

DM*DM*DM*DM*DM*DM*

Draco woke up early the next morning with a huge smile on his face. Besides the fact that it was a beautiful Sunday morning, he had had a fantastic dream about Harry. It wasn't an erotic one, they were just lying on his bed facing each other and talking. Harry looked so perfect in the dream, his tan skin glowed in the firelight in the room. His green eyes glittered with happiness as he talked. Draco didn't remember what they were talking about but he knew it had to be something good by the glowing happiness on his Harry’s face.

With a contented sigh, he got off the bed and got ready for the day. About two hours later he finished and was immaculately dressed, an open light grey robe with a white cashmere sweater and grey slightly fitted dress pants. A pair of black boots completed the look.

"Diddly!" He called out and a small pop was heard before a young house elf appeared in front of him.

"Yes Master Draco?" The house elf squeaked.

"Please attend to Mr. Potter when he wakes up. You may use some of my clothing for him, fitted to his size, of course. Also, you will bring him to the family dining room for breakfast. Understood?" He said sternly but not harshly.

"Yes Master Draco. Diddly is to be taking cares of Mr. Potter." Diddly squeaked before popping away. Draco smiled and gave his clothing a final adjustment before apparating to the family dining room.

When he got there he wasn't surprised to see his mother already sitting at the table. He told her good morning, accompanied with the usual light kiss on her cheek, before he sat down at his place. No sooner had he sat down, a small pop was heard and Draco almost choked when he looked up. Harry stood there blushing and with a nervous smile on his face. Diddly stood next to him with a proud smile on his face, he bowed to everyone in the room then popped out. Draco's eyes returned to staring at his gorgeous, edible looking Harry. He found it incredibly difficult to stay in his seat when all he wanted to do was grab the man and apparate them straight to his bed. Harry looked amazing in his clothing. He was wearing a dark purple fitted long sleeved shirt with close fitting black dress pants, a black robe that was left open and his black leather shoes. Draco just wanted to take everything off slowly. He was aware that the other two occupants of the room probably noticed that he was undressing Harry with his eyes but he couldn't care at the moment. The rational side of his brain had shut down, again. His eyes travelled back up to those beautiful emerald orbs that he were boring into his silver ones. Draco could feel the unspoken attraction pulsing between them.

A throat clearing snapped them out of their heated staring. Draco's gaze dropped immediately and he fought the heated blush creeping up his face. He glanced at his mother to see her watching him with that same infuriating, knowing smile on her face. He ignored her. All three greeted each other. He cast sidelong glances at Harry as he sat down and made himself comfortable. He couldn’t stop watching the other man. It was like his eyes had a mind of their own. A few seconds later, breakfast appeared at the table giving his eyes a reprieve from 'Harry watching'. They all chose what they wanted and ate quietly.

After breakfast, he and Harry retired to his study and they just talked. Harry said he had to leave a little while before lunch. Draco didn't deter him no matter how badly he wanted to. He just told him to make sure to write if he needed anything.

Draco walked him to the door and stopped before he opened it. He then turned to face the other man. He noted that Harry tensed just a bit and looked a little nervous. He frowned slightly. Obviously Harry thought he was going to mention the night before but he wasn't. He planned on Harry bringing that up himself.

"Harry, I know this may seem a bit out of the blue, but I want to give you the password to my study floo as well the one to the family floo. I've come to see you as family Harry. And also, this way we can communicate a lot quicker and easier." He said quietly, watching the shorter man intently. He watched as relief flashed across Harry's face before a huge smile formed.

"Thanks Draco." The brunet said softy. "I'm honoured that you consider me family. I feel the same way towards you. I would also like to extend the same courtesy to you." Harry finished. Draco smiled and nodded and they exchanged the relevant passwords. It was quite obvious to Draco that Harry wanted to pretend nothing happened the night before but he wasn't worried. The heated staring match this morning proved that Harry really couldn't help himself, he would eventually lose the fight to his feelings. Draco would allow his raven this small instance of denial. He said goodbye to Harry and opened the door, his heart ached slightly as he watched Harry walk away and then apparate. He had said he would always wait and he would, but that didn't mean he couldn't wish he had his Harry soon.

Draco apparated to his study as soon as he shut the door. He had to think. Just as he was about to sit on his armchair his floo 'dinged' which indicated that someone was trying to get through. He wasn't concerned really about who it could be because he could count the number of persons who had his password on one hand. With a flick of his wand, he unlocked the floo and watched as the flames turned green before his best friend stepped through gracefully. Draco quickly locked the floo and walked over to greet him. He could see that Blaise was carrying three scrolls in his hand. He already knew what they were, the fact that there were three scrolls gave it away. What he was dying to know was the contents of said scrolls.

His curiosity peaked as Blaise silently walked over to his desk and placed a scroll on it. He glanced at his dark face hoping to get some hint but naturally, Blaise's face was blank. He obviously wanted him to find out for himself. He watched intently as Blaise tapped the scroll on the desk once and it unfolded. Blaise tapped it again and slowly gold letters formed. Eventually it spelled out Albus' name then the word 'Mother' appeared underneath it followed by Ginevra's name then 'Father' followed. Draco let out a huge sigh of relief when he saw Harry's name. Yes, Albus looked like a mini version of Harry but potions could do wonders and he wouldn't put it past the slut.

He held his breath as Blaise placed a second scroll on the desk and repeated the process. Draco watched as the parentage of James Sirius Potter was revealed. The name 'Cormac Evan McLaggen' appeared next to father. Draco closed his eyes. The bitch had actually done it, actually passed off somebody else's child as Harry's. He clenched his fists and his breath came out in an angry huff. This would kill Harry! If he ever got his hands on that red headed slut!

"You can't go off to kill her just yet Draco, there is still one more." Blaise's deep voice pierced through his thoughts. He grunted in response.

He did not need to see that McLaggen was the father of Lily as well. He just knew she wasn't Harry's. Salazar, he wanted to strangle that lying, cheating, skank! He barely paid attention as Blaise placed the final scroll on the desk and did the same as the previous two. He vaguely saw Lily then Ginevra's name appear, then the fathers name appeared. Draco blinked, and blinked again. He glanced up at Blaise questioningly then looked back at the parchment. He was seeing things right? He had to be. There was no way, no how, that name could possibly be there. But no, it was there, staring him in the face, the golden letters glittering at him.

Draco couldn't think straight, he barely felt Blaise guiding him to sit in his armchair. The only coherent thought going through his head was Harry's reaction to the news. He briefly pondered the idea of not telling him anything but he stopped. Harry deserved to know. He couldn't believe it though. Him?! How the hell did that happen? How desperate was he to sleep with that loose bitch?

"I had the same reactions." Blaise said and Draco just stared at him. "Of course, I confronted him about it. He said it was a one night stand. He wanted a fuck and the slut was practically throwing herself at him. He didn't know a child was a result and he is pissed Draco. I'm actually feeling slightly sorry for her. He will crush her for keeping his daughter from him, worse that she tried to pass her off as Potter's." Blaise continued. Draco was still staring but as he processed what Blaise said a devious smirk appeared on his face. The Weasleslut would be ruined, he almost rubbed his hands in glee as he thought about it.

"When do you plan on telling Potter?" Blaise asked, again taking him from his gleeful thoughts. Draco immediately sobered up.

"I have to tell him as soon as possible Blaise. He deserves to know, even though it'll kill him." He replied solemnly. Blaise just nodded in agreement. With a heavy sigh, Draco walked over to the floo and threw in some floo powder. He waited till the fire turned green before muttering the password to the floo at Godric's Hollow.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Harry smiled as he put down the letter he received from Albus. He had returned to the Hollow a few minutes ago to see Erotes waiting on him, letter in his claws. The letter basically stated that Albus understood how he felt and that he was just worried. Harry wasn't too surprised that Albus had so readily accepted his apology, his youngest son was the only one who really knew him. He was just about to pen a reply when he heard the floo chiming indicating a call was coming through. Quickly, he allowed access and was surprised to see Draco's concerned face in the green flames.

"Draco?" He asked. He had just left the manor and why was Draco looking like that?
"Harry, I need you to come through to my study, now please. It's important." Draco said urgently and Harry noticed his voice sounded strained. A feeling of trepidation settled in his stomach.

"Okay. I'm coming through now." He replied and Draco's head nodded then disappeared. Taking a deep breath, he threw floo powder into the fire and muttered the password before stepping through.

Harry was surprised to see Blaise Zabini there when he stepped out into Draco's study. He couldn't keep his eyes from roving the form of the tall, dark man. The picture he made standing next to Draco was stunning. They were like polar opposites and Harry's libido was steadily rising.

"Eh hm!" The sound of Draco's throat clearing brought him out of his fantasy world and he blushed, embarrassed. It was obvious he was called over for something serious and here he was daydreaming. It couldn't really be helped though. The two men were just too bloody gorgeous.

"Erm...hello." He mumbled to the two men in the room.

"Hello, Mr. Potter." Blaise replied, his silky voice flowing over Harry.

"Hello Mr. Zabini. So erm, you wanted to see me Draco? You said it was something important?" He asked. He almost smirked at the small glare Draco was giving him. He knew the blond probably didn't know he was doing it. It seems Draco was a bit possessive.

'For Merlin's sake Harry! Get a grip and be serious.' He chided himself. He minutely straightened his shoulders and walked over to the two men. Blaise was regarding him with a raised eyebrow and a small smirk.

"Yes Harry." Draco said somewhat stiffly. "Blaise and I found out some information and we thought you should know about it as it concerns you and...Others." He finished.

Harry watched him confused. His eyes shifted between Blaise and Draco and he saw both men had sobered up and had grim expressions on their faces.

'What could be so bad?' He thought to himself growing worried then Draco's words fully sank in.

"Others? Who?" He inquired hesitantly, almost afraid to actually find out.

"You, Ginevra and your children." Draco replied and Harry's heartbeat increased. He was really getting worried now.

"Well, tell me then." He stated with false confidence but he knew he had to find out now or he'd drive himself into a panic.

Harry frowned when Draco didn't say anything but instead placed a scroll on the desk and tapped it. It slowly unfolded and he watched as Draco tapped the parchment. He gasped as gold letters showing Albus' name appeared then right under it the word 'Mother' appeared followed by Ginevra's full name. Harry's eyes widened when he realised it was the results of a heredity test. He turned to Draco to see the blond watching him, his grey eyes filled with concern.

"D-Draco?" He stuttered. He was confused. Why was Draco showing this to him? He knew his children were his.

"Just look Harry. Please." Draco practically pleaded and Harry gulped. Draco Malfoy didn't plead. He nodded then returned to the parchment on the desk.

The father's name had already appeared and he gave a shaky sigh of relief when he saw that it was his name. He gave a small smile to Draco which faltered when he noticed the return smile was extremely strained. Brow creased with worry, he again watched as Draco placed another scroll on the desk and repeated the same process as before. This time James' name appeared and Harry watched avidly as Ginevra's name appeared under it. His eyes remained fixed on the parchment as the word 'father' appeared. He waited patiently for the letter 'H' to form. It was only when the full name was spelled out did Harry truly realise what he was seeing.

'Father- Cormac Evan McLaggen'

Harry stared. He couldn't believe it! It had to be a lie.

"Wha? Th-this can't be real." He muttered to himself. "Do it again Draco." He told the blond man on his right.

"Har-"

"Draco, I said do it again!" He demanded. He didn't notice his voice had gone slightly higher in his panic. He glued his eyes to the parchment as Draco tapped it again revealing the same results. Harry's eyes filled with tears. This couldn't be true. He looked up at Draco and saw that his face was pinched and he seemed to be shaking slightly. His eyes travelled downwards and he saw that Draco's fists were clenched tightly. It was only then he noticed another scroll was being crushed in one of them. He already knew what it was.

"Draco, let me see the last one." He said quietly.

"Harry, I don't thi-"

"Draco, just get it over with!" He shouted glaring up at the blond. Though he figured the unshed tears in his eyes killed the effect. His body shook slightly as Draco repeated the same process as the previous two. He idly noted that he stood closer to him and he seemed prepared to catch him. Harry didn't understand why, he was shaken up but he wouldn't faint or anything. He already figured out Cormac was Lily's dad as well, based on Draco's actions, he just wanted confirmation. His eyes never moved from the parchment as the glowing gold letters formed 'Father' before the name was revealed and Harry now understood why Draco was ready to catch him because the room started to spin when that name appeared.

'How could Ginevra have done this?' He thought as he swayed. The last thing he remembered was hearing shouts of 'Potter' and 'Harry' before blackness overtook him. The words 'Father- Theodore Viktor Nott' forever imprinted in his mind.

Harry woke up on what appeared to be a sofa in unfamiliar surroundings. He sat up and groaned as his vision swam.

"Harry?" A concerned voice sounded to his left. He turned to see who it was and groaned again as his head spun. What was wrong with him?

"Maybe you should direct him to lie back down Draco." Another voice said, this time to his right. He frowned in confusion but he didn't protest when strong, gentle hands pushed him back in a lying position. He closed his eyes until he felt the world stop spinning.

"Harry?" The concerned voice came again and Harry slowly opened his eyes to see Draco's face hovering above his, the worry there for him to see. Those mercury eyes searched his to see if he really was okay then the blond nodded slightly and moved back, though still watching him intently.

"I'm okay Draco." He murmured quietly. He looked over the back of the sofa to see who the other voice belonged to and was surprised to see Blaise Zabini staring back at him. 'What's he doing here?' He asked himself before his mind replayed everything from earlier and it slammed into him like a head on bludger. James and Lily weren't his children, James and Lily weren't his children! The words kept repeating in his head over and over. He barely heard Draco calling his name.

'How could Ginevra have done this? Why on earth did she do it? Did she even love him at all?' The questions kept zooming around in his head like an endless cycle and Harry felt sick. His breath came in short gasps and he felt himself getting dizzy again.

'They aren't yours. They aren't yours kept reverberating around his head and tears welled up in his eyes. Just as he felt he was about to pass out again, a jet of cold water hit him directly in his face. Harry spluttered as his mind was brought forcibly into focus.

"What the fuck is wrong with you Blaise?" He heard Draco shouting.

"It was necessary Draco. He was having a panic attack and obviously your methods weren't working." Blaise answered calmly.

"I still don't think being that extreme was necessary." Draco grumbled and Harry almost chuckled despite the situation. Almost. His face crumbled as he thought about the test results. He heard Draco call for a cup of tea with a calming draught and said cup of tea appeared in front his face soon after. Draco cast a drying spell on his face and had to help him drink the tea because his hands were shaking too much. He finished the cup of tea and languished in the effects of the calming draught. He then raised himself into a sitting position.

"This is real isn't it?" He asked quietly to no one in particular.

"Yes it is Harry." Draco said and Harry felt him sit next to him. He unconsciously leaned into the other man, his body knowing what he needed but his mind too preoccupied to think about it.

"How did you find out about this?" He turned his head up to Draco and asked. He waited patiently as Draco shifted a bit.

"Blaise did some research and he was able to find them." Draco finally answered.

"But...why?" Harry couldn't help but ask.

"Well...I had my suspicions Harry so I asked Blaise to look into it for me." Draco murmured and Harry just stared at him. Draco had done all that for him. He smiled softly.

"Thanks." He said and turned to face Blaise who had moved to stand by the desk. "To both of you." He said gratefully. They both nodded and Harry even a spotted a small smile on the face of the Zabini heir.

"So Potter, what's next?" Blaise asked.

His blood boiled as he thought more about Ginevra and everything she had done. Here he was having an emotional breakdown and she was probably shacked up with that idiot laughing at his stupidity. He snarled. He didn't realise he had done it out loud till he heard a deep chuckle and Blaise asking;

"I guess that means crush her like the worthless piece of filth she is?"

"Damn right it does. I assume you two already spoke about the divorce proceedings?" He inquired looking at the two.

"We haven't but I readily offer my services." Blaise said.

“Mine as well, as you probably already know Harry.” Draco added.

"Then I accept your services. How does payment work?" He questioned.

"We will not be accepting any payment from you Harry. Honestly, I'll feel like I'm exploiting you."

"But I thought that was in your nature?" Harry asked teasingly, surprised at himself for actually being able to tease. He guessed thinking of making Ginevra pay for everything she'd done made him feel a little better.

"Ha...ha Harry." Draco said sarcastically. "I don't know if you realise but it seems my Slytherin tendencies become non-existent when I'm around you."

"And I can attest to that." Blaise agreed with another deep chuckle. Harry smiled winningly up at Draco and was rewarded with a return smile as big as his own.

"How about we get started then." He announced suddenly and got up and walked over to the desk next to Blaise. Draco walked over to them and Harry belatedly realised he was completely dwarfed by the two men.

“We’ll have to contact the Ministry first in order to finalize a court date Harry. Is that okay?” Draco asked and Harry didn’t hesitate to assure the blond that it was. He wanted everything finalized as soon as possible. He and Blaise retreated to a place in the room that was not in view of the fireplace whilst Draco walked over to it to make the floo call. He listened intently as Draco spoke to the clerk. Harry marveled at the blonde’s professional persona. He was able to quickly finalize a date and was adamant about what he wanted on the divorce missive. A few minutes later Draco ended the call and walked up to them.

“Right, well as you lot heard, the date for the divorce trial is set for January 3rd, which is a couple of weeks from now so we have to start preparing. The official missives from Ministry shall be appearing soon so we could sign it.” He stated.

“Thanks Draco. I’m sure we’ll have everything ready by then. I just want this all to be over.” Harry muttered.

“It will be soon Harry.” Draco assured him and Harry couldn’t help but smile a little. He felt the other’s man hand land on his shoulder and gave a slight squeeze. He was grateful for the comfort.

The moment was interrupted by a sharp crack and three official looking scrolls appeared in midair in front of them. Blaise swiftly grabbed them and carried them to the desk. Harry didn’t need to ask what they were as it was pretty obvious that they were the scrolls from the Ministry. Blaise unfolded all three and gave one to each of them. Harry read through the missive and a grim smile formed on his face. It basically stated that he wanted a divorce and that all matters concerning child custody and everything financial would be sorted out in court. It also stated that court date was set for Thursday, January 3rd. After the final read through, the letters were signed by himself then Draco as his lawyer and Blaise as the witness.

"What now?" Harry asked.

"Well, one of the letters goes to the Ministry's Family Affairs Department and another goes to Ginevra." Blaise answered.

"So soon? Wow. That's great." Harry approved. "What about the Ministry though? I don't want this getting out just yet."

"Don't worry Harry, there are spells on the missives to prevent any information from being released. If by some weird chance it does get out, without all the involved parties consent, the entire FAD can be sued." Draco reassured him and Harry nodded. Blaise then tapped two of the missives which rolled into scrolls and tied with green ribbons. He murmured a spell and tapped both scrolls again. Harry watched as they glowed gold then vanished.

He was hurt, angry and betrayed but he wouldn't let that keep him down. He was never one to let anyone walk over him. He loved Ginevra but she messed up and he was going to make sure she paid dearly for playing with his heart and practically his life. Sixteen years of deceit! Oh yes, she would pay.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Ginevra Potter sat on the only chair in the small living room of the minuscule apartment she and Cormac currently resided in. She groaned silently, this is what she had come to. She had gone from living in a beautiful house to this shack in some unknown Wizarding village in Wales. They couldn't have gone back to Cormac's house because the press were already there. All her life she had wanted attention, craved it even. Her parents had given it to her, as the only girl after six boys, but she always wanted more.

'Well I'm getting it more than ever now.' She thought ruefully.

Ginny still couldn't get over the fact that she had messed up so badly. She shouldn't have brought Cormac to the Hollow. None of this would have happened, she would have been living her perfect life, with Harry blissfully unaware of what she was really up to. It was more than a week ago and Ginny still couldn't get the picture of a furious Harry out of her head. She had felt real fear then. She was almost sure Harry would've killed them, then the next thing she knew, she and Cormac were in front of the Daily Prophet, naked. Ginny gripped her hair tightly as she remembered the utter embarrassment, the screeching of laughter still echoed in her head. She was so shocked at that time that she didn't think to apparate immediately thus every single Wizarding newspaper saw them. She didn't know Harry had such a vindictive side. A loud pop suddenly rang through the room and she startled a bit. Her eyes widened slightly as he saw an official looking scroll floating in front of her. With shaky hands she grabbed it, untied it then smoothed it out and read it.

Ginny just stared at the words on the parchment as she finished reading it. Never in her married life did she think she would see that dreaded word 'divorce'. Her grip tightened as her mind raced.

'No! This isn't happening!' She thought frantically. 'Harry can't do this! He can't! He loves me!'

"Gin?" She heard Cormac call but she couldn't reply to him right now. "Baby?" He called again and she snapped.

"Just leave me the fuck alone right now Cormac!" She screeched at him.

"Ginny what the fuck? Calm down!" Cormac shouted and reached for her. She batted away his hands. She couldn't stand his comfort right now. She had to think. She had to find a way to get Harry back. Ginny knew she couldn't give up so easily, she had done a lot to get this far. She already knew the easiest way to get to Harry was to appeal to his compassionate side so she planned on using their children. Harry prided himself on family, it was something he cherished above all else. He would do anything for his children.

Ginny blatantly ignored Cormac and focused on the crumpled notice in her hand, she saw that the court date was set for January 3rd, almost a month from now. She grinned. She had enough time to formulate her plan. There was no doubt that it wouldn't work, she was confident in her abilities and she knew how to play Harry. There was no way she was going back to just 'Ginevra Weasley', she would always be Ginevra Potter. Always.
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Better Late Than Never