Chapter Text
After the war had ended there had been weeks of grieving. Weeks and months of rebuilding. Endless days of interviews, and trials. There had been happy times, sad times, and down right bloody difficult times. Harry had got through those weeks though. He’d grinned and bared it thinking only of the end that was in sight. He would travel; for at least a year. He’d decided it a few weeks after the final battle while he was visiting Severus Snape in St Mungos. The man had just regained his voice and Harry had told him he intended on joining the Aurors as soon as possible. The man had sighed and told him how he had left Hogwarts, gone straight into Voldemorts inner circle, and then after into teaching at an extremely young age. He suggested Harry might take some time for himself. To discover what he liked and disliked to see the world - or at least parts of Europe - to learn how other wizards lived. Harry had like that idea. He’d asked if the man would do the same but he’d shook his head and told him that he’d always wanted his own potions business and that now would be the perfect time to start.
Then in the September, once Hogwarts had opened its doors again, and every single shop in Diagon Alley had reopened, including new additions such as Snape’s potions shop, he received an owl from Narcissa Malfoy requesting he come for tea.
Tea was not all she had on her mind for their meeting, marriage had also been on the menu. Harry hadn’t the foggiest what he was walking into that day.
He’d arrived at Gringotts at 9am to request that they change some of his money to other European currencies as he was due to leave on his travels at the end of the week. He’d then ducked into Snape’s apothecary to pick up some Pepper Ups and other potions he might need for his journey.
“Erm, do you have one that will stop me getting burned in the sun?” Harry asked thinking of some of the warmer countries he was due to travel to.
“I have a paste. You apply it weekly.” The man summoned a large glass tub with white paste inside. “Anything else?”
Harry shook his head. “Not that I can think of but I don’t leave until Friday.” Harry glanced at the clock. “I better hurry actually I’m meeting Malfoy’s mum for tea at that new place on the corner”
“Narcissa?” Snape paused while packing the brown bag with Harry’s potions looking up from his task.
“Yeah, I expect she wants some closure or some favour. I haven’t actually spoken to any of the Malfoys since their trails.” Harry had testified for Malfoy and his mum. Lucius had been sentence to 25 years in jail.
Snape had a frown on his forehead as he accepted Harry’s money. He gave him a dismissive wave out the shop then. Harry was getting used to the man’s odd mood changes though. He wasn’t great at socialising and once he’d hit his limit that was the end of their chats for the day.
Ten minutes later Harry sat in a state of shock holding his pink and gold teacup halfway to his month after Narcissa had just invoked his life debt to her in the form of a marriage to her son.
“But… why?” Harry had asked.
Narcissa smiled ruefully. “Mr Potter. My husband is in prison, our name is out of favour, and our status in society isn’t what it once was. To get ourselves back on even footing my son must make a good marriage… but I have no bargaining chips… apart from this life debt.”
Harry blinked. “But, Mrs Malfoy, we don’t even like each other.”
She reached over and patted his hand. “I’m not expecting miracles nor am I cruel. You’ll be able to divorce, as long as Draco isn’t painted in a bad light in the proceedings, and after an heir is secured of course. The you’ll be free to marry the Weasley girl.”
“I’m gay.” He blurted out but was unsure why he said it. He was completely at odds with himself and the situation.
Harry jumped when a jar was slammed on the table in front of him. “You forgot this Potter.” He turned his head slightly to see Snape stood to the side giving Narcissa a narrowed eyed look.
“Severus!” Narcissa called gleefully. “I have wonderful news. Your godson is to be married.”
“To whom?” Snape asked without missing a beat.
The blonde woman’s smile was bright when she replied, “Mr Potter, of course.”
Two days later he arrived at the Manor to meet Draco, his husband to be. Snape was also sat at the dining table; apparently he’d muscled his way into the preparations as defato father of the groom. The two Malfoy’s didn’t seem to care one bit that the man had forced himself on the proceedings. After dinner Narcissa announced the two teens needed some time alone dragging the man off.
The blond had been quiet throughout the dinner. “You don’t want this do you?” Harry surmised not really expecting an answer so he continued when the other didn’t put up any protest to his declaration. “Why are you going through with it?”
Draco rolled his eyes. “My mother is actually a terribly good judge when it comes to things like this. I trust that this will be good for the family. Social status is important to her and I’d like her to be happy.” He laughed then. “She thinks that all our bickering was because we actually fancy each other.”
Harry just thought Narcissa Malfoy was mad.
Despite Harry’s feelings about Narcissa he and Draco were married at winter solstice in-front of 200 guests. By this point they were getting along fairly well and Harry had admitted to Ron and Hermione that actually he thought the marriage might be ‘okay’ - at least they didn’t hate each other anyway. He met them again once they had returned from their honeymoon in Europe for a month - it had been the compromise to Harry being unable to travel as planned.
When Ron went to the toilet Hermione leant in and asked him how he was finding being married. Harry laughed and asked her why she’d not told him how bloody good sex was.
6 Years Later
Working as an Auror was a hell of a lot more paperwork than Harry had ever expected. It often meant that he didn’t arrive home until after 9pm. Thankfully Aurors only worked three shifts a week… usually. It was lovely to have four days off even with the long shifts on the other days.
When he and Draco had first married they’d lived in Malfoy Manor but that didn’t really suit Harry so after many many fights they’d sold Grimmauld and Draco’s mother had given him a some additional galleons to buy a town house in London. It had taken quite awhile to find one that was right and in the end they’d bought a muggle owned property. Draco wasn’t too pleased about this but Harry convinced him that at least this way they could put their own wards and enchantments on the property. He’d heard so many horror stories about ancient enchantments on Wizarding houses that had needed extensive curse breaking work after the house had been sold outside the original family. He knew that Narcissa was a little bitter about the sale of the Black family home but she’d been mollified by Draco who had told her that their was absolutely no way he was living in that dank, mouldy old house.
Plus the press had been great. Harry and Draco where pinned as a modern day wizarding couple. Marrying outside of pureblood traditions, shunning pureblood norms, and carving out a new era for marriages in todays society. Behind closed doors that wasn’t the case. Pureblood traditions ran deep in Draco’s psyche causing everything from colossal falling out to minor disagreements. Both as stubborn as the other. Whatever they did the papers adored which meant Harry often got his way as what Draco hated more than anything was himself being badly reflected in the press.
Their London Town house really was in a great location. Just a 20 minute walk from Diagon Alley and just a short tube to the Ministry. Harry liked doing things the Muggle way sometimes. You didn’t need to use magic for everything - or so he kept telling Draco.
Renovating the house had become a small obsession for Draco who enjoyed charm work. He read book after book on house warding and helpful house charms and charmed the house to an inch of its foundations.
Some things Harry found absolutely ridiculous such as the colour coded self sorting wardrobe but he had to admit the self sorting charm on his sock drawer was Merlin sent.
This evening Harry had taken the tube home to shake off the day. Today he’d been the lead Auror on a domestic violence case which had ended tragically. Sitting almost alone in a tube listening to the familiar hum was almost like a reset for him. The journey helped him leave the horrors of his job behind. Catching sight of the white brick house as he turned the corner he smiled. They had a small front garden just about a meter and half long but the path to the house was tiled and the garden was planted out with rose bushes. All different types of roses so that the bloomed like a rainbow in the summer months.
He tapped the red front door with his wand to gain entry. The house was quiet but the lights were on. He took off his outer robes placing them on the coat rack. The red Auror robes had anti muggle charms on which meant that most muggles didn’t even look his way which was helpful when navigating the streets of London.
He stretched before setting off to the kitchen to hopefully source some dinner. He couldn’t even remember if he’d had lunch. Reaching the kitchen he opened the fridge.
“There is left over stew if you are hungry.” A deep voice said behind him. He jumped then spinning round.
“Severus! I didn’t know you were here.” Harry clutched his chest spotting the man in the doorway.
Severus rolled his eyes. “I told him to owl you.”
Harry was used to Draco’s antics by now but blew out a small huff. “I might have missed the owl. It’s been… You made stew?”
Severus allowed him to change the subject - the man was Draco’s Godfather but had fast become one of Harry’s closet friends after his marriage to Draco. He and Harry had spent many evenings together in the study while the Malfoy's were out doing whatever Malfoy's do when they go out. “I did. Your house elf dislikes me so I made the food myself.”
“I don’t think it’s just my house elf.” Harry laughed remembering the trouble Severus had with the manor elf’s. “Where is he?”
Harry’s curiosity finally got the better of him. Severus just raised an eyebrow but answered anyway. “I’m not honestly sure. Something about Parkinson and not being a good friend if he didn’t go. Where they are and what this weeks drama is escapes me.”
“I’m sorry.” Harry sighed leaning against the counter.
Severus took a quick step into the room towards Harry. “Do not apologise for, Draco, as his Godfather I indulged this behaviour. I had a hand in…” he trailed off looking back out the room but Harry had felt it too.
He pushed off the counter with a sigh squeezing Severus’ arm as he passed. Just as he got to the bottom of the stairs a figure appeared at the top. “Daddy. You’re home.”
Harry smiled taking two steps at a time taking the boy into his arms when he got to the top step. “Scorpious, You should be asleep.” He smiled and kissed his head.
“I just wanted a cuddle from you.” The boy told him seemly unconcerned he was being carried back into his bedroom.
Harry put him back into bed. “Did you have a lovely night with Uncle Severus?”
“Oh, yes, he taught me defensive spells?” Scorpious was yet a little too young to understand what defensive was but that clearly hadn’t stopped Severus.
“Did he now?” He tucked the three year old into bed.
“He said you’re the best at them.” The boy told him snuggling himself under the blanket pulling his favourite owl plushie towards him.
Harry laughed. “Daddy is the best at everything, you know that.”
“Not potions.” Scorpious told him sternly. “Uncle Severus is a very good potions man.”
“I suppose I can concede there.” He kissed his head again. “Now go to sleep.”
“Night Daddy.”
“Night Scorpious.” Harry said as he closed the bedroom door.
Harry went back down stairs to find Severus still in the kitchen. He’d heated up a bowl of stew and poured him a glass of red wine which was waiting for him on the kitchen table. “Sit down.”
Harry did. “Pour yourself a glass won’t you?” The man nodded joining him at the table after pouring himself a glass of wine. It was nearly 10pm but the pair fell into easy conversation polishing off the bottle. Harry told him about his day, the case, which was something he didn’t usually do, but Severus had a calmness about him. An understanding of what it took for Harry to deal with these cases. He didn’t comment much just listened adding to Harry’s conclusion. Sometimes an insight Harry had overlooked or maybe a comment about how Harry had made the right choice or that he’d have done the same. It made Harry feel more settled; reassured about the outcome.
“What time did he leave?” Harry asked finally suddenly changing the subject but Severus knew who he was talking about.
Harry watched the man grimaced, he often disliked discussing Harry and Draco’s… issues. “He dropped Scorpious off at the shop just after lunch. I closed up at four and brought him here.”
“You’re joking?” Harry’s mouth dropped open. “No warning he just came to the shop, at lunch, and didn’t come back for him?”
Severus forehead pinched slightly. “You know that I don’t mind. I enjoy spending time with Scorpious.”
“Yes, but Scorpious shouldn’t feel like his father can’t be bloody bothered with him.” Harry sighed. “I only work three days a week - Molly has him for one of the days and he goes to preschool for the other. One day a week that he has to look after him; honestly is it such a trial for him?”
Severus looked at the ceiling as though thinking carefully of the next thing to say. “Draco has always been selfish.”
“I know that. I grew up with the spoiled brat.” Harry rubbed his face. “He wanted an heir.”
“Draco was brought up by the nanny. He saw his parents for a couple of hours a day.” Severus explained slowly. “It’s learned behaviour. He knows no different.”
“Yes and I grew up with no parents.” Harry spat. “Yet everyday I strive to give Scorpious everything I didn’t have. My time, my love, my guidance.”
Snape looked away pained. “I’m not making excuses for him I’m just trying to help you understand. He has to learn how to be a parent.”
“And if he never changes. If I come home at least once a week to find he’s go out Merlin knows where or hosting another impromptu party with Scorpious locked away in his room.”
“Then I’ll be here to help with Scorpious.” Severus looked him in the eye. “I made mistakes when I was Dracos age. So many mistakes. The ones that Draco are making pale in comparison.”
Harry nodded. “Okay. I’ll have a very grown up conversation with him about it. No shouting.”
Severus nodded. “Good. I’ll head off home now. I’m not sure I want to be about for Dracos return.”
“Alright. See you in a few days?” The man nodded. “And thank you again for looking after Scorp… and the chat.”
Severus left and Harry went to bed. He was fast asleep by the time Draco returned. The man was drunk, loud, and obviously horny. Harry woke up to find the man’s body plastered against his back and kisses being applied to his neck while the man’s hands travelled towards his groin.
“Draco.” Harry pulled the man’s arms away. “Fuck off and go to sleep.”
Luckily the tone must have convinced the man he really wasn’t in the mood as he rolled over in a huff away from Harry.
*
The next morning Harry got up at six and went straight to his home gym. He had to stay in shape for the Aurora meaning the five out of seven days were started on the running machine. He only managed 20 minutes when a sleepy head popped round the corner.
“Good morning.” Harry smiled slightly breathless but jumped off the machine to pull the boy into a hug.
“I’m hungry.” Scorpious told him clearly still quite sleepy.
Harry picked him up. “Not a problem. Let’s go find you something.”
“Is Papa up?” Asked Scorpious as they passed the bedroom door.
Harry didn’t roll his eyes but he wanted to “Not yet.”
“Uncle Severus let me help brew potions at the shop,” the boy beamed. “Can we go and see him today?”
“We’ll see. I’m not sure what you Papa has planned for today.” Harry smiled kindly at his son. “But I’ve got four whole days off so I’m sure we can fit in a trip to Uncle Severus’ shop at some point.”
“Ok. I like it when your home, Daddy.”
“So do I, Scorp.” Harry told him kissing his head.
They got on with their morning. Breakfast of toast and then cereal. Then they went out in the garden for a while to kick a football about; Scorpious was much too young for Quidditch. That kept them entertained until a figure appeared in the back door.
Draco who had wrapped his dressing gown around himself tightly stood frowning at the pair. “You’re being very loud.” He called voice croaky.
Draco’s hangovers were legendary. Harry used to indulge them in the early days. He’d let the man lounge in bed all day while he brought him tea and toast.
*
Five Years Ago
“More tea my Prince?” Harry breezed into their bedroom finding Draco wrapped in the duvet.
“Harry, please make this go away.” Draco cried pulling the duvet a little higher.
Harry laughed. “Self inflicted. How about I run you a nice bath. You’ll feel better once you’re all clean and hydrated.”
Draco huffed. “I’m not drinking again. I blame Severus. It was his whiskey.”
“Absolutely not his fault. I watched you put almost double what he had away.” Harry pulled the duvet down. “Now sit up, drink your tea, and I’ll run your bath.”
*
“Hi, Papa, will you play football with us?” Scorpious shouted over to his father.
Draco shuffled outside throwing himself onto the garden lounge chair. “Can’t I’m sick. Plus I hate that Muggle game.”
Harry shook his head as he watched Draco wrap his dressing gown tighter around him.
“Well… we like football don’t we, Daddy?” He asked turning questioning eyes onto Harry.
Harry kicked the ball back to Scorpious. “Yes we do. You’re very good at it too, I think we should look for a team for you to join.”
“Harry.” Draco whined. “Don’t encourage him.”
Rage boiled inside Harry. He turned around marching up the the blond. “Seriously, Draco, you are a piece of work you know that. How dare you?”
Draco gave him a look. “Oh, you’re in one of your moods again?”
“My moods…?”
“Daddy, are you not playing anymore.” Harry heard the little boy running towards him; he reluctant to continue to talk to Draco in-front of his son.
“Sorry. Are we ok to go inside for a bit?” He smiled reassuringly turning away from his husband and taking a deep breath.
The boy pouted but turned to go inside. Harry turned back to Draco once he was out of earshot.”I need you to get your head out of your arse for five minutes so we can talk. I’m going to take Scorpious out for the day I expect you to be here when we get back and ready to talk to me after we put him to bed.”
Draco narrowed his eyes for a moment looking like he was going to respond but instead he flopped back down on his chair. Harry stormed in finding Scorpious inside the doorway trying to take his shoes off. “Hey, how about you leave them on and we go see Aunt Hermione?”
4 Years Ago
“A baby?” Ron exclaimed almost spitting out his beer. Hermione frowned at his uncouth reaction before turning back to Harry.
“And how do you feel about it?” Hermione studied his face carefully.
Harry signed. “Well I’ve always wanted a family. Always.”
“But…” she prompted.
Harry took a sip of his pint. “When Draco suggested we have a baby it was because he wants to continue his line. He seemed disconnected from the reality that we are talking about bringing a child into the world.” He confessed.
Hermione hummed but it was Ron that responded. “To be fair, Mate, it’s he pureblood way. I’m honestly surprised it wasn't in your marriage contract to start trying the first year.”
“ I get that. I do. It’s a massive deal for them but I can’t help feeling uneasy about it.” He rubbed his face.
Hermione took his hand across the table. “I think you’d make a great father. Really I do. You deserve to be happy Harry and if a child helps you do that then I’ll be there for you. We both will.”
*
“Harry, Scorpious! I’m glad you’re here!” Hermione smiled drawing Scorpious into a hug. I’ve been going mad in this house.”
She was almost seven months pregnant with her first child. Her maternity leave had started two weeks ago due to high blood pressure at her last antenatal check; the Ministry wouldn’t risk her health so instructed she was to stop working Immediately. She’d been on the floor to Harry almost everyday complaining.
“Have you tried reading a fictional book, Hermione. I know how the last few weeks feel but this will all be over soon enough. Try and enjoy your break from work.” He hugged her tightly. When they pulled back she was frowning.
“What’s happened?” She asked knowing him far to well. His eyes welled up he couldn’t help it. “Come on, Scorp, let’s go find you something to play with outside while me and Daddy have boring grownup talk.”
She led him to the garden getting him started watering the plants with a self refilling watering can. Harry sat at the bistro table his friends had set up on the patio. “He’ll drown them.”
She waved her hand. “If they die I’ll get Neville to come round and save them.” She accio’d a tea set then pouring them both a cup before prompting, “Go on then.”
Harry filled her in on the last couple of days at home and how hopeless he was feeling in his marriage.
Hermione looked stricken. “Harry you fulfilled the life debt you don’t have to stay married to him you know that. The agreement was always that you two could divorce.”
“The expectation is that we can divorce as long as it doesn’t make Draco look like a complete shit. We have a child together now - that’s harder to navigate.” Harry sighed. “When we did the marriage contracts I agreed to at least five years of marriage. There were no stipulations about what would happen to children after we divorce - we only agreed I would have any stake on the Malfoy's estate or their cash. I want Scorpious to have a stable life and be loved; I’m worried a divorce would have such a negative effect on him.”
“But he has you and Draco can still visit him; wouldn’t that be better than his father dumping him on others all the time.”
“And what if they fight for custody?” Harry shared his fear finally voicing it. “I couldn’t lose him and they’d have the best lawyers.”
Hermione was silent for a while clearly considering the prospect. “Oh Harry.”
“Honestly I’ve been stupid. I should have had contracts written up when we had him.” Harry took a sip of his coffee. “You know Severus hinted at it he told me to look over the marriage contracts.”
*
4 Years Ago
Soft footsteps entered the kitchen. Harry turned slightly to see Severus enter.
“Do you need another drink?”
Severus shook his head. “Draco’s asleep.”
Harry laughed. “I’m not surprised he had a skinful last night too and far too many tonight.”
There was silence from the man for a moment. “Draco asked me to brew the potion for you.”
“Oh! He’s asked you already?” Harry was mildly surprised. Though they’d agreed to ask Severus he thought they’d do it together.
Severus hummed. “What did your marriage contract say about children?”
“He’s not forcing me if that’s what you think. I’ve always wanted a family.” Harry defended his choice automatically feeling his cheeks flush.
“I wasn’t suggesting otherwise. I’m sure you do want a family with your, Husband, but he is a pureblood. Your idea of a child’s upbringing that might not be what Draco’s idea of a child’s upbringing is. You should have a contract drawn up with a lawyer to make sure your wishes are met too.” Severus told him seriously.
*
“He was trying to help me.” Harry sighed. “Now I’m stuck,”
“You’re sure you can’t work this through with him?” Hermione took a sip of tea.
Harry shrugged, “We’ve been working through this since Scorpius was born. I honestly don’t think the situation Is ever going to improve.”
“I think you should speak to a lawyer.” Hermione affirmed. “They can talk you through your rights; you could be worrying over nothing. This is wizarding law it’s complicated,”
“Maybe.” Harry knew he was a long way away from speaking to a lawyer. It would be a disaster if the press got hold of that.
They stayed with Hermione and had dinner with her and Ron before returning back home. Harry was brushing the dust of Scorpius hair when Draco entered. He looked much more presentable than he did earlier on.
“Hi Papa.” The boy smiled when he turned and noticed Draco in the doorway.
“Hello.” Draco cleared his throat. “I think it’s my night to put you to bed?”
Scorpius swung back round to Harry opening his mouth to protest. “Off you go with Papa. I’ll come up in ten and give you a good nights kiss.”
After Scorpius was tucked in bed Harry entered the kitchen opening the fridge Taking out the wine. He sat down at the dining table waiting for Draco to join him.
The man got a glass of water before sitting down at the table. “I’ll never be the father you want me to be, Harry.”
“Draco, don’t you dare start with a pity party. I’m not asking you to be father of the year I’m just asking you not to leave him to go off to get pissed with your mates. It’s one day, and three evenings, He has preschool and Molly has him if my shifts fall on the weekend. Three days that you just need to be present for him, pick him up from preschool, get him from the Burrow at a reasonable time, and don’t dump him.”
“Well… what if I had a job then he’d have to go somewhere else then.” Draco said petulantly.
“Draco, you don’t have a job, you are leaving him because he’s a hindrance to your lifestyle.” Harry stood up then turning away to the kitchen sink trying to get his emotions under check.
“Severus doesn’t mind though. He likes seeing Scorpious. Pansy called she’d split up from her latest boyfriend she needed me.” His husband whined completely missing Harry’s point.
Harry rubbed his forehead. “And next week it will be some other crisis that requires your presence. I’m not saying don’t see your friends I’m just wondering if maybe you could do something child friendly?”
“Harry, can we not get a nanny? Or could you not leave work. You know you don’t have to work.” The blond said like it was the easiest thing in the world.
Harry turned back to face the man upset by the suggestion. “Oh for fucks sake Draco. Not this again.” The Malfoys had always hated that he chose to work. It just wasn’t something Malfoys did. They seemed to think Harry working was a reflection on the state of their finance's.
“Seriously. I had a nanny there’s nothing wrong with it.” He stood up then as the argument heated up.
“Draco, you were scared of your father. He controlled you.” He gestured wildly then.
The blond scoffed, “There’s a little more pressure on pure blood children. We have standards to uphold.”
“Well luckily for you your son’s not pure blood then?” Harry countered.
“Practically. A Potter and a Malfoy. He a child born from two of the oldest pure blood families.” Draco often reminded him of this as if it would trigger something in Harry and he’d suddenly be the perfect pureblood.
Harry vanished his wine glass. “I can’t talk to you anymore you refuse to take anything on board. I’ll organise someone else to collect Scorpious from preschool next week if you feel unable to look after your own own child.”
“Please do. I’m going away anyway.” Draco folded his arms pouting slightly.
“Sorry… what?” He asked confused knowing he hadn’t missed this announcement previously.
“I’m going to the villa in Italy for a couple of weeks with Pansy and Blaise.” Draco studied his nails then not looking up at Harry.,
“And when were you going to tell me? Where you hoping to just leave a note for me to find after you’d gone?” He felt his anger building up again.
“I’d have told you today if you hadn’t have run off in a huff. We decided last night. We are going to go tomorrow around lunch.” The blond looking up challenging Harry then.
“Right. Ok.” Harry rolled his eyes. “Well enjoy.”
He heard the man stand up as Harry tried to leave the kitchen. Harry, sorry, I should have told you. Please can we not leave on bad terms? I don’t want us stewing on this until I get back.” Not everyone knows if but Draco Malfoy did experience bouts of guilt especially after they’d argued like this. He just couldn’t seem to change his ways rather begging for forgiveness.
“I don’t know what you want me to say. Your shaking all of your responsibilities again.” He glanced back then seeing Dracos defeated face. “Listen, I’m going to bed. Stop in the spare room.”
*
Scorpius was upset when Draco told him over breakfast that he’d be going away for a couple of weeks. He asked a lot of questions including why couldn’t he come; Harry held his tongue throughout so as not to make any nasty comments.
Once Draco left Harry spent the rest of the day distracting his son from his Father’s departure. It’s was tiring and hard work though. Scorpius often skipped into a sad state remembering Draco had left and not quiet understanding how long a couple of weeks was but knowing it was a long time. Unfortunately, for Harry, it wasn’t the first time Draco had run off to the Villa.
*
4 Years Ago
“Oh there you are,” Harry smiled walking into the bedroom after a long shift. Draco didn’t turn round which was when Harry noticed he was packing a suitcase. “Oh… are you going somewhere?”
“Oh, didn’t I mention it?” Draco glanced up briefly. “It’s mother’s birthday so I’m going to spend a few days with her at our villa in Italy.”
Harry raised his eyebrows wondering about the lack of invite for him but not wanting to begrudge his husband time with his mother. “Oh ok. That sounds nice.”
“Mmm. Yes I like to go a couple times a year a nice change of scenery.” Draco zipped his suitcase. “Well I’ll be off.”
“Now?” Harry questioned.
“Erm. Yes.”
“Right. Ok, well, have a good time.” Harry gave him a kiss on the cheek.
“Don’t forget your potion will you?” Draco told him referring to the potion that he had to take for 30 days to get his body ready to conceive.
“Of course I won’t.” Harry smiled reassuring the man he was taking it seriously.
Draco took his leave then but as it turned out Draco was gone three weeks before he return to their home he sent a few owls to update Harry on how the trip was going but there was no explanation as to why a few days turned into three weeks. The man was happy enough when he got home though and excited to start trying to conceive. Harry didn’t want to ruin the mood by my bringing up the extended holiday.
*
Later that night there was a knock on the door. Harry shuffled to it he was in his pyjamas with a throw wrapped over his shoulders. He tapped the door to unlock it pulling it open to find Severus on the door step.
The man regarded him him for a moment front the front door step before Harry burst into uncontrollable sobs. Arms came around him and Severus made a shushing noise while kicking the door closed behind him. He guided Harry through to the livingroom depositing him on the sofa. After a few minutes Harry calmed down enough to speak. He had his head on the man’s chest.
“He said he’s gone for two weeks but last year it was a month and we’d been arguing. I don’t think he’ll be back for a while.” He confessed his worry.
“I have to agree. He fire called me this morning and asked me to look in on you and Scorpius from time to time while he’s away. It sounded like he intends to be gone for a while.” The man summons a tea set.
“I confronted him.” Harry watched Severus pour two cups of tea. “He’s running away from his responsibilities.”
“Did you expect anything else.” He stated with raised eyebrows towards Harry.
“I just feel trapped. Completely and utterly trapped.” Maybe Hermione had been right about the Lawyer.
“Harry you are free to do as you like. Draco wants you to be around for his every whim that’s what the Malfoys always expected of their spouses. They broke their own traditions by striking up an agreement with you. You’ve stayed firm; they didn’t expect that - I think they thought they could mould you to accept their ways. I believe that Draco thought that when you had a child you’d fall into place.”
“I’m going to have to speak to work and take some time off I think.” He’d had to take some time off last year when Draco had left. Harry had saved up his holiday time for the weeks Draco went to the villa.
“You know I’ll help you. It’s only a few evenings a week - I can look after him for you.” He hated taking advantage of the potions masters good will.
He accepted any way. “Severus are you sure? I can get Molly to help; and Hermione’s off so she could help but if you could take him the evenings when I’m at work I’d feel better knowing he’s going to bed at a decent time instead of waiting for me to pick him up.”
“I’m a serious man I wouldn’t have offered if I didn’t mean it. Also I enjoy spending time with him.” Harry thought that for Severus helping to raise Scorpious as a conscientious thoughtful child were part of him giving back after the mistakes he’d made in his life.
Harry hugged him tightly. “Severus you really are a life saver. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
Severus squeezed Harry’s shoulder. “You are resourceful you would have found a way - I’m sure. Now I must take my leave but write down your work schedule for the next four weeks and I’ll put it into my diary.”
*
4 Years Ago
“Sorry, run me through this again.” Harry rubbed him forehead. “One drop of blood then three clockwise stares. It’s red for fertile, yellow for not fertile, which would indicate an issue because I was fertile last month when we checked, blue for pregnant, purple for maybe test again in a week.”
“How many times, Harry?” Draco groaned clearly frustrated. “Take the bloody test already.”
“If it’s easier you can look away and I’ll tell you the result of the potion.” Severus told evenly trying to avoid an argument between the two.
“Erm… yes ok that sounds better.” He looked at Draco. “Sorry I guess I’m a little nervous.”
After his course of fertility potions they had tested to make sure they had worked agreeing that they would test monthly to see if he had fallen pregnant. This was his first test. He pricked his finger then did the clockwise stares before stepping back.
“Congratulations.” Harry ears began to whistle when he heard Severus.
“I’m pregnant?” He could barely get the words out feeling suddenly short of breath.
“Yes.” The man said simply.
“Bloody fantastic. “ Draco said proudly taking Harry in his arms. “First time. Gosh, that must be a record!”
“I can’t believe it. I’m actually pregnant” He looked at Severus again as Draco had gone over to the fridge to take out a bottle of champagne.
Severus reached over clapping his shoulder. “You will make an excellent father.”
“Thank you for every I really appreciate it.” Harry told him sincerely.
The cork popped on the champagne and Draco poured out three glasses. Harry declined his explaining to Draco he shouldn’t be drinking so the blond downed both glasses before pouring himself a third. They sat in the living room for a while talking about how excited Draco’s mother would be and how to make the announcement so it got the best press coverage which Harry found quite distasteful if he was honest. Harry excused himself to go to bed after just 45 minutes feeling overwhelmed with his husbands ideals and PR schemes.
He got to the bottom step before he felt a hand on his arm. He turned to see Severus frowning. “Are you ok?”
Harry smiled softly. “Oh yes just a little tired”
The frown lessened a little. “Of course. It’s a common enough symptom even at this early stage.” The man let go of his arm. Stepping back. “I’m going to brew your pregnancy potions. I’ll bring them round tomorrow but you need to see a healer too.”
“I will. It seems Draco wants me to use his family healer. Are they… good?” Harry had never had his own family healer before. He hadn’t even had a GP when he lived with the Dursleys.
Severus shrugged. “I’ll brew your potions and keep an eye on your progress too. I’m sure he’s well qualified.”
“Alright, I…” just then Dracos head popped around the living room door. His eyes unfocused from all the fizz he’d manage to down in less than an hour.
“What are you two whispering about?” Dracos words slurred slightly.
Severus turned back starting down the corridor towards the blond. “I was just organising to bring Harry’s pregnancy potions round. I’m assuming you want me to brew them though you haven’t had the decency to ask.”
Severus pushed Draco gently back into the room. “How would I know to ask for something I didn’t even know that he needed.”
*
Draco had been gone for nearly three weeks. Last week he’d sent a postcard for Scorpious but there had been no further contact. Severus and Harry had fallen into a steady routine with Severus taking care of Scorpious after preschool or collecting him from Ron and Hermione’s of the Burrow while Harry worked late. Last week one of Harry’s work days had fallen on the weekend so Severus had taken his son to the seaside and indulging his every whim. It made Harry’s heart ache. It was the sort of thing he’d always imagined Draco doing with Scorpious while he was pregnant but reality had been far off the mark.
Harry wasn’t working today but he’d woke up in the night feeling unwell; he’d dribbled down stairs to get himself a glass of water hoping he’d feel better in the morning but he’d only felt worse.
The fireplace chimed. It was only 7am. Who was for calling at this time?
Crawling out of bed kneeling infront of the hearth tapping it to let the call through. There materialise Dracos head. Harry coughed.
“Did I wake you?” He asked looking down probably at his watch.
Harry coughed again. “I’m not well.”
“Thank goodness in not there to catch it then.” Draco scoffed. “Mothers organising but if a sioree over here. It’s in two weeks time. You’re not working are you?”
Now the man’s bothered about his rota. “No.”
“Right good. I’ll send you the portkey. We are two hours ahead here so it will be 5pm your time but you should probably stay the weekend so if you come in the afternoon and I’ll get a portkey back the following evening.”
“Alright.” Harry wasn’t in the mood to argue so just agreed with the man’s demands. Do you want me to get Scorpious so you can speak to him?”
Draco shook his head. “No point waking him. Tell him I’ll see him soon and to bring his swim trunks for the pool.”
Harry crawling back into bed starting to shiver after being out of the sheets. Around 30 minutes later he heard his front door open. There were only a handful of people keyed to the wards, most usually knocked first, in his state he couldn’t quite tell who it was.
There was a knock at his bedroom door a minute or so later. “Come in.”
It was Severus who opened the door tentatively stepping into the room. “Draco firecalled he mentioned you told him you were unwell so thought I’d come and check on you.”
“I felt a little off last night but I feel awful this morning. Maybe when I get up I’ll feel better.” He moved to try and get up.
Severus came to the bed pushing Harry back down. “Let me run a diagnostics spell on you.”
The spell didn’t take long with the readings transferring over to a parchment for Severus to read.
“Go on. What’s the verdict.”
“Wizards flu I’m afraid.” He gave Harry a stern look. “There no easy fix. I can give you potions to help but your body will have to do most of the work.”
“Severus, I’ve got Scorp…”
“Absolutely not. You must stay in bed for the duration. I’ll take care of him you must not worry about anything. I’ll send an owl to the Aurors and let them know you’ll be off for at least the next two weeks.”
“Two weeks? It’s that bad.” Harry put an arm over his face.
“Yes.” Severus told him and Harry believed him.
“Ok. Thank you. I trust you.” And he did it wasn’t the first time the man had looked after him when he’d been ill.
*
Harry lay on the bathroom enjoying the coolness. Three days he’d been pretty much in bed with the flu. Severus had been staying in the spare room to look after Scorpious. The man had been leaving to brew potions at the shop while Scorpious was in preschool but apart from that he’d been tending to a Harry.
Harry had barely eaten in days a few spoonfuls of soup and a few cups of milky tea were about all he’d managed. He felt incredibly weak but he was also desperate for a bath.
He’d made it to the bathroom and spelled the taps on but he’d laid down on the floor and actually it felt glorious.
“Harry!” He heard Severus’ voice from the door way. “Why aren’t you in bed?”
He groaned caught out. “Honestly I came in for a bath bit then the floor felt so nice.”
Severus laughed then, “it’s not the first time I’ve heard you say that.”
*
Four Years Ago
Harry lay on the bathroom floor facing the doorway willing the sickness away. He jumped when through his eye lashes he saw a large black figure. “I’ve brought you something to help.”
“Merlin, is it always this bad?” Harry asked his eyes closed with the effort.
“Not always. Think you’ve been unlucky.” Severus told him. “Can you sit up.”
Harry signed. “I mean, I can, but the floor feels sort of nice and cool.”
“You’ll feel better in a minute with this potion.” Severus told him.
“Alright.” Harry pulled himself up on the bathtub but as soon as he was the right way up the room swirled and his stomach churned. “Oh no.” He managed before leaning forwards vomiting again, and again, into the toilet.
Though this time a strong firm hand stayed on his back to steady him. When the bout of vomiting subsided Severus held out the potion which Harry took shakily. The effect was instant.
Harry sighed in relief, “I thought I’d be here all day.”
At Harry’s confession Severus grimaced, “Draco should have called me.”
“Did he not?” Harry’s eyebrows raised. “I thought that was why you were here.”
“He came by the shop and mentioned you were sick.” Severus helped him up from the floor. “I decided to come over with the potion but I didn’t realise you were quite this unwell.”
Harry laughed. “I’ve been like this for days.”
Severus guided Harry back to his room. “I wish you’d have said. I’d have come sooner.”
Harry crawled into his bed and under the covers. “Honestly, I thought it was normal. Just something that would pass with time.”
“Once a martyr always a martyr.” The potions master sighed.
***
Scorpius was burrowed in the bed next to him when Severus came in to check on him. His fever had broke yesterday but he still remained extremely week. “I think I need a bit of a walk.” Harry said after he felt Severus’ diagnostic spell.
“Just downstairs and maybe a turn about the garden.” Severus told him sternly. “I’ll help you.”
Harry shuffled up allowing Severus to pull him upright. He took the man’s arms leaning heavily on him. When they got down stairs Harry noticed a large box on the kitchen table. “When did that come?”
“Today. I found it in here when I returned from the shop.” The man guided him to a kitchen chair sitting him down. “Do you want me to open it for you.”
“Please. I’m as weak as a kitten.” He was. He couldn’t believe how much the walk downstairs had taken out of him.
Severs opened it pulling out the contents. “Looks like new robes. Did you order them?”
Harry bashed his head on the table. “That bloody ball Narcissa is organising. It’s this weekend isn’t it?”
Severus pulled out a matching set of robes that were Scorpious’. “You don’t have to go. You can tell him you are unwell.”
“I can’t. Scorpious is looking forwards to seeing Draco.” Harry felt the robes which Severus had laid in the table. They were a light material. Perfect for a warm Italian evening. “You know this is the first time I’ve been invited to their Villa.”
Severus put the robes away carefully. “Would you like to go back to bed?”
Harry nodded feeling the exhaustion creep into every bone in his body.
*
Severus arrived the day of the ball at 1pm having the close the shop early to help Harry get himself and Scorpious ready for the ball. Harry had slept most of the day with Mrs Weasley having Scorpious for him. He felt brighter than he had in days but he had lost weight meaning the robes were baggy; his complexion was paler than usual with visible dark rings around his eyes. Severus glanced at him worriedly. Harry was very familiar with Severus’ worried glances.
*
Four Years Ago
“Harry?” Draco shook him awake gently.
“What’s wrong?” Harry asked sitting up from where he’d been asleep on the sofa starting towards the bassinet.
“Nothing. Severus is here is all. Taking his cloak off. I thought you’d like to receive him.” Draco told him. He was very formal about such things even with Severus who seemed to be around more than most. Harry heard the man clear his throat looking around to see him hovering in the doorway.
“Sorry, I was dozing, please come in.” He moved the blanket away making to stand but Severus held his hand up to stop him.
“Stay there. Don’t get up on my account.” He stepped further into the room gesturing towards the bassinet. “May I see him?”
Draco pushed the man forwards then so he could look over the top of the wicker basket. “I’ll go and find that bloody house elf while you pretend to be interested in the baby.”
The blond disappeared then;Harry shared a small smile with the potions master. “Sit here next to me.” He patted the seat on the sofa to his left. “I’ll pick him up then you can get a better view.”
Severus sat where Harry told him. “Don’t disturb him if he’s peaceful.”
Harry laughed reaching for the day old baby. “Oh, you’re doing me a favour by giving me an excuse to hold him. I’m quite attached already, you see, but I’m supposed to be letting him sleep on his own to get used to it.”
He settled the baby into his arms. He was still quite red and his tiny features were scrunched up a little bit, but, you could tell already he was going to have Draco’s blond hair and small bone structure. Severus reached out touching the babies hand which opened and shut at the new touch. Harry glanced at him to see him studying the child intently. “He wouldn’t be here without all your help you know.”
The man opened his mouth to reply but Draco came back in. “He was doing laundry. He’s going to bring the tea soon, we need a fall time Elf Harry this part time nonsense is no good for a house with a baby.” Harry rolled his eyes discreetly. Their Elf lived in a share house for House Elf’s and was paid the going rate for his work. He only worked three days a week between 9am and 6pm. Harry had told Draco with all the household charms he put on the place was there really any need for an elf. The blond refused to cook though meaning if they didn’t have an elf for the three days Harry was at work he probably wouldn’t eat either. “So, what’s the verdict?”
Severus looked up at his godson then. “You’ve made a very beautiful child, well done.”
“He looks like a Malfoy doesn’t he?” His husband came closer looking down again at their son’s face. “Mother is thrilled.”
“Of course she is.” Harry felt Severus eyes on him then with a questioning look to him.
The potions master cleared his throat as Draco retreated to the armchair across the room. “You are recovering well? Managing to rest?”
Harry smiled. “A little now and again. I’m glad I had him at home. Meant afterwards I could just stay in bed.”
“Screamed bloody murder though. Merlin, knows what the neighbours thought.” Draco commented.
Harry narrowed his eyes. “We have soundproofing wards. You did them. You were the only one complaining about the noise.”
“Yes, well, wizarding tradition…” He cut the man off before he could finish that sentence.
“I swear Draco, finish that sentence and I’ll hex you.”
The blond laughed. “Alright, alright. I’m sure it was very painful. He did terribly well actually, Severus. Over in six hours which is apparently very short for a first labour or so the mediwitch said.”
“I expected no less from Harry Potter.” Severus smiled briefly but Harry could see the concern in his eyes still. “Have you decided on a name?”
“Don’t even go there.” Harry exclaimed. “We’ve been arguing for months.”
Draco sniffed. “Harry wants a plebeian name… you know… like his own.”
“Draco wants him to be a pompous jumped up little snob like him.” Harry replied without missing a beat. His husband laughed in delight - they did enjoy teasing one another.
Severus cleared his throat. “To be fair to Draco, wizarding naming traditions are quite important in many families.”
Harry groaned. “Your ganging up on me now are you? Fine. I’ll think about it.”
Draco jumped up again them. “I’m going to find that bloody elf.”
The blond flounced out of the room making Harry smile at his dramatics. If he was up to it he’d have made the tea himself or just summoned it from the kitchen. Draco was rubbish at summoning far better at other magicks.
“Do you want to hold him?” Harry asked once they were alone.
Severus seemed to consider it. “Not today. Only because he looks very comfortable there.” He did run a finger down his cheek though. “Next time.”
“I’ll hold you to it.” Harry leaned back further into the cushions groaning at the ache in his lower body.
“Are you alright? I don’t mean to hurt your pride but you look exhausted.” The man reached into his pocket for the shrunken bag of potions he carried.
“Oh I am exhausted but by all accounts it’s normal; going to need to get used to.” He laughed. “I’m in a bit of pain. Mediwitch said it will take a few weeks.”
Severus held out two vials. “Non-drowsy pain potion. One drop three times a day with meals.”
Harry took the vials. “You are heaven sent.”
The man still looked concerned. “I’d like to come tomorrow evening and check your pains improved if that’s ok?”
“You are always welcome here.” Harry told him seriously.
His former teacher had gone above and beyond during his pregnancy and he was proud to count him amongst his closest confidences. Certainly a friend he’d like to share moments from the first days with the new baby with. Some days he felt they were closer now than even Severus and Draco but he supposed the dynamics were different. Severus was Draco’s Godfather.
*
The portkey brought them on to a large stone porch with a large double wooden door which was open wide and welcoming. The sun was still quite high in the sky and Harry felt the heat instantly.
Narcissa Malfoy appeared a second later out of the doors. “Welcome. There’s my handsome grandson.” She held her arms wide and Scorpious ran into them. “Come in we have cooling charms set inside.”
The villa was beautiful. He had to admit. He could see why Draco liked to spend so much time here. The floors where white marble, the walls white stone with stylish paintings hung. Narcissa walked them down a corridor opening a set of doors to a large hall decorated the same as the hall they were standing in managing to looked both grand yet keeping that rustic Italian countryside feel.
“Papa!” Scorpious shouted and Harry spotted Draco coming through a doorway with light curtains that blew gracefully in the wind. It clearly lead to a terrace or balcony. Their son ran across the room flinging himself at his husband who caught him in an easy hug. “I missed you.”
“I hope you’ve been good.” Draco asked picking him up easily on to his hip.
“Oh yes! I was extra good so I could come to your party!” He told Draco with pride. Harry watched his husband kiss Scorpious head and the boys face light up with pride. He’s heart clenched thinking how much his son wanted to impress his other father. He felt a ghost of a hand on his back and turned to Severus but the man was watching the scene too.
“I’ll be in the kitchen darling.” Narcissa called to Draco leaving to presumed check on whatever food the elf’s were serving tonight.
Draco looked Harry up and down as he reached him with Scorpious still on his hip. “Goodness, you look rough. Have you been that unwell?”
“Daddies been in bed for days. Uncle Severus has had to look after both of us.” Scorpious said unaware of the tension. Dracos eyes flickered to Severus the he closed the space between himself and Harry placing quick kiss on his cheek.
“Severus firecalled to say you had Wizards Flu but I didn’t realise…” He cleared his throat moving back slightly looking Severus straight in the eye. “Thank you for taking care of him.”
Severus raised an eyebrow. “I’m well practiced in the art of caring for your husband, Draco.”
Harry was sure it was meant as a joke but he felt it landed a little harsh his eyes flickered quickly between the men feeling the tension. “Sorry, Harry, I didn’t know how ill you were I should have taken Scorpious for a few days at least.” He moved towards him again pulling him in for a hug with Scorpious between them. “Forgive me.”
Harry felt the weight of the statement. “We’re here now. For the rest of the weekend. Scorps looking forward to the pool. Aren’t you?”
Draco smiled at the boy moving away from Harry again. “Of course he is. Come on I’ll take you to your rooms.”
Severus’ was first. He nodded to them telling them he’d see them for the ball.
Next was Scorpious’ room which had been filled with toys and plushies. There was also a house elf there who was to watch over Scorpious when the was alone in his room. Draco led Harry to the next door opening it to a room much grander than their bedroom at home. “This is my suite.”
“Your suite?” Harry asked with slightly raised eyebrows but he could already see a couple of doors in the room which must mean the ‘suite’ had a bathroom and maybe even an office or seating area separate from the sleeping area.
“Well, I mean ours.” Draco told him quickly clearly misinterpreting the what Harry had meant.
“Draco, I was referring to the fact you have a whole suite not just a bedroom here I wasn’t trying to lay any claims on it. We don’t have to pretend that any of this is part of my life.” There was no fight in the statement just an acceptance of how their lives were. “I think that this place might be your sanctuary away from things that you find difficult and honestly, Draco, I’m not going to pick a fight with you about it.”
His husband moved to the window gazing out. “Alright. I know things aren’t great with us at the minute but if we can agree not to fight about it this weekend I’d appreciate that. I’d just like for you and Scorpious to enjoy your time here.”
“I haven’t come here to fight with you. For one I really don’t have the energy but mostly because Scorpious deserves a happy weekend with the both of us. He has missed you, Draco. Just… just promise not to abandon us at least while we are here?”
Draco turned at him then. “Of course I won’t abandon you. We have a really nice day planned for us all tomorrow.”
“Good. You should also thank your Godfather properly. He’s had to miss a lot of work to help out while you’ve been gone especially with me being unwell.” Harry told him sternly.
Draco rolled his eyes but came over and took Harry’s hand leading him to the door. “Fine, but I know he bloody loves it. That man has a bigger hero complex than you.”
Before they reached the door he pulled Harry flush against him. “I missed you too.” Draco kissed him then. Harry let him because truthfully he did miss Draco too. Not the selfish Draco but the one that made him laugh, kissed their son goodnight, and made love to him passionately. Harry only wished he could see that Draco more often.
When the pulled back Draco smiled at him. “I’ve messed your hair up now. Here let me…”, He pulled his wand out whispering a quick spell. “That’s better. My handsome, Husband.”
Harry swatted him away with a smile opening the door to put an end to Draco’s flirting.
*
Guests started arriving not long afterwards and Scorpious was brought down to the ball by a house-elf. The boy watched with curious eyes as wizards and witches flooded in greeting their hosts. Harry didn’t blame him. As a child he’d probably find the even fascinating too. He squeezed the boys hand as another middle aged pompous looking bloke was introduced to him. He glanced across the room to where he had last seen Severus to find the man leaning against the terrace doorway with a champagne flute watching him. When their eyes met the man smirked at him raising his glass. Harry almost burst out laughing. Of course the man would enjoy watching his uncomfortable interactions.
“Harry.” He turned around as Narcissa put a hand on his arm. She motioned to her side were a weedy man stood holding a camera. “This is our photographer. He’s here to capture the event for us. We thought it would be nice if we got a family photo of us all.”
“Erm. Yes, ok, if that’s what you want.” He pulled Scorpious to stand in front of him placing his hand on his shoulders while Draco place a hand on his waist and Narcissa stood sideways with her hand on her son’s shoulder. After the picture was taken he was freed from his guest greeting duty. He held Scorpious hand again as he took them to the bar.
“Can we have an orange juice and a glass of water, please.” Harry asked the waiter.
“Scusa?” The man said with a frown.
“Erm… an orange and a water.” He said slower. “Please.”
The man frown but suddenly Severus appeared next to him. “Volue un succo d'arancia e un bicchiere d'acqua se fossi così gentile?”
The waiter disappeared so that must have done the trick. “Yes. They do employ Italian speaking waiters and no, I can’t really speak Italian, I just learnt how to order in Italian so I could get along well enough when Lucius invited me to the villa with them.”
“Wish Draco had told me. I’d have made him get us drinks.” Harry pouted a little.
When the waiter returned with drinks Severus guided him to a table in the corner. He pulled a colouring book and set of pencils out of his pocket for Scorpious. “You think of everything.” Harry laughed.
“I’ve just been to enough of these things to know that he’d be bored out of his mind.” Severus told him taking a seat next to Harry. “Not feeling well enough to drink?”
“Goodness, no.” Harry told him taking a sip of the water.
Severus glanced around which made Harry do the same noticing some people looking there way. “They are going to think you’re expecting again because you aren’t drinking.”
“Not when I look like this they won’t. I’m sure I look half dead.” Harry scoffed.
Severus looked at him surprised. “Harry, you’re wearing a glamour. You don’t look like you’ve been in bed with the flu… far from it actually.”
“A glamour?” Harry asked frowning looking across the hall at Draco who was laughing with Zabini and Parkinson. “He offered to tidy me up. I thought he was fixing my hair.”
Severus made an uncomfortable sound. “The robes are more fitted now. He’s tailored them.”
“He’s very concerned about his image and by extension mine.” There was a bitterness to his voice. “Don’t worry we won’t argue about it. We’ve agreed to a truce for the weekend.”
Severus didn’t comment just took a sip of his drink.
A little later Draco approached the table he bent down close to his ear. “I’d like to dance with you.”
Harry felt his cheeks pink. “I’m not sure I’m pretty wiped out already.”
“I know. I’m sorry your feeling shitty. The next couple of songs are slow. I’ll hold you up I promise.” He gave him a charming smile. “After, we’ll talk to a couple of people and then we’ll tell everybody it’s Scorpious bedtime; you take him to bed you can go to bed yourself. I’ll tell anyone who asks that you’ve stayed with him. Does that sound ok?”
Harry sighed. “You know I hate dancing.”
“But I like it and I’d love to dance with my husband for the first time in ages.” That did it. He couldn’t really say no to that could he? Draco was rarely romantic these days and sometimes Harry craved how they used to be in the early days of their marriage.
So they swayed together slowly on the dance floor as Draco held him close. Part way through to second song, which turned out to be the same song as their wedding dance, Draco had cupped his chin and kissed him sweetly. Harry had sighed letting his head lay on his shoulder. It felt nice to be held by Draco again, loved by him.
For the first time in months he felt hopeful. Maybe by communicating they could make it work again. After they danced he was taken over to a group of Italian men who Draco explained were old family friends who had wanted to meet Harry for years. He spoke to them about the area and what there was to do. Scorpious joined them not long after; Draco sweeper him into his arms again kissing the boys head and gushing proudly about him to the men.
Harry saw Severus join their group too. He nodded to the men briefly. Soon Draco announced Scorpious bedtime offering his arm to Harry keeping him on his hip. When they reached the corridor with the bedrooms he placed Scorpious on the floor kissing them both begging forgiveness that he couldn’t help with bedtime as he had to get back to the guests. Harry fell asleep fully clothed on Scorpious bed while telling him a bedtime story. It went even 10pm yet.
He woke briefly to Severus putting a light sheet over him. He made to get up but the man sushed him telling him to rest.
*
The goodbyes before the portkey home the next day had been hard. Scorpious cried asking to stay and then begged Draco to come home with them. Draco had kissed Harry on the cheek saying he’d see him soon.
They landed at home and Severus helped Harry calm Scorpious down taking him to bed thankfully he was tired from an active day at the villa so despite being a little upset he fell asleep quickly.
Severus came back down stairs with Harry close behind. “Would you like to stay for a drink with me?” Harry asked him not quite ready to be on his own again.
The man agreed and they went to the kitchen together to choose a bottle from the wine rack. “I can never tell which ones are supposed to be good and bad. Draco is quite particular about getting the wine right for the occasion.”
Severus let out a huff. “I couldn’t care less as long as it tastes good.” He moved forwards pulling one out. “Here. This was Lucius favourite. I know it’s a good one.”
Harry got the wine glasses out pouring two large glasses of wine handing one to Severus. “To getting through a Malfoy social event.”
“They used to be much worse. Trust me you got away very lightly.” Harry believed him. He could only imagine the sorts of people Lucius Malfoy invited.
“Come on. Let’s sit down.” Harry led the through to the living room tapping on the wireless in the corner before he sat down.
They talked for a while about the weekend, the ball, and the other attendees they knew. They discussed how Scorpious had enjoyed the swimming pool and Harry wondered if maybe he should book a week away for them in a couple of months to give Scorpious a proper summer holiday. Severus agreed that it sounded nice and he should take some proper time off work.
Then they fell silent to listen to the wizardiing 10pm news. The first story was about how the Aurors had caught a animal smuggling gang. Harry had commented that he hadn’t worked on the case but had heard about it on various tea breaks with colleagues. Next was a large donation to the mind damage department at St Mungos were the donor hoped the money could be sort on a researcher to better understand some of the conditions and improving them. Neither of them commented but Harry wondered wether Severus was thinking about the Longbottoms or maybe either Lockhart who were trapped permanently on the ward.
Then the third story started, “… Mindy Collins joins us now to tell us about the event of the summer at the Malfoys Italian Vineyard.”
Harry swung around quickly to look at Severus whose frown deepened. “I didn’t see any reporters.”
“No.” Was all Severus said.
“… it was a fantastic event clearly putting the Malfoy back at the top of their party hosting hey days. It was a real statement event with some of the most well known Wizarding society members in Italian attending with some well known British society members there too.”
“And tell us, the question on everyone lips after current recent headlines. Was Harry Potter there?” Harry’s heart clenched. He hated the press more than anything.
“He was. This is the first time he’s made an appearance at their annual Italian vineyard ball. He was seen on the dance floor with his husband and socialising with the Italian ministers husband and his entourage who was also there. This is what he had to say.
A prerecorded tape played. “Magnificent night. It was great of the Malfoy family to have me here. I was especially pleased to meet Harry Potter. He is a very impressive Wizard. A legend even here in Italia.”
“Though Harry did leave early to put his and Draco’s young son, Scorpious, to bed…” He’d heard enough. Feeling the dread creep into his chest making it hard to breathe.
Harry stood up leaving the room. “Harry!” Severus called after him but Harry heard movement behind him so he knew the man had followed. He entered the office spotting a pile of Newspapers on the desk.
Harry was still for a moment; Severus nearly ran into him. Then he slowly walked to the desk picking todays Daily Prophet from the top of the pile unfolding it to see the front page. Sure enough his own face looked back at him. The full page was almost taken up by the photo of them all that Narcissa had requested he posed for then there was a small box with himself and Draco dancing. He couldn’t believe it. They’d brought reporters into the villa and had them take photos of Harry. That was an absolute line for Harry. When they had married he’d made it very clear that, while he understood the good press was important to the Malfoys, they were never to allow them to access property’s that Harry was at. Scorpious had never ever been in the papers. Harry had made sure to make it clear they didn’t have permission to take his child’s photos which meant Draco had given the papers permission to print their sons photo.
He threw the paper down flicking through the front pages of the other papers piled up on the table until he found one from three weeks ago. The paper showed Draco out with Parkinson and Zabini looking as though he was happy and carefree. The headline said “Malfoy parties while saviour stays home with their son.”
“Merlin.” Harry passed the papers to Severus. “Had you seen this?”
He shook his head. “I don’t read this rag.”
“Explains a lot though doesn’t it.” Harry marched passed him back to the living room. “I wondered why we got an invite he doesn’t usually bother taking us along to their exclusive events, but this time he had the press there, watching us, reporting back on us.”
The reached the living room and Harry took a large mouthful of wine and paced the room. “It was a set up to improve his imagine. He only gave us the time of day so the press could see him acting like a decent father.”
“I didn’t know or I would have told you.”
“I know you would.” Harry assured him stopping and approaching the man. “You are a good man who is constantly left cleaning up Draco’s mess - my mess.”
Harry put his hands on his shoulders the sagged dipping his head on to the man chest. “Harry… “
“I’m a fool.” He said broken. “I’m a fool who has stayed in this marriage with a man that treats me like shite for too long.”
“You’ve always put your son first.” Severus told him. “Now you need to put yourself first. If that means you leave Draco then I’ll help you do that. You sacrificed everything for others now you deserve a good life - a happy one.”
Harry pulled back looking into Severus face. He felt so much gratitude for the man. He was truly decent and fair. In that moment he can’t do anything other than kiss him.