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The Twelve Days After Christmas
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Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male › Harry/Draco
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Adult +
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2
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3,839
Reviews:
22
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Category:
Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male › Harry/Draco
Rating:
Adult +
Chapters:
2
Views:
3,839
Reviews:
22
Recommended:
0
Currently Reading:
0
Disclaimer:
I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.
Chapter 2 of 2
Title: The Twelve Days After Christmas
Author& Notes: never_tempt aka cameowitch
Email: meandmine1@verizon.net
Status/Part: Part 2/2
Rating: NC-17 FRAO
Pairing: HP/DM
Date: Dec 2005
Key words: M/M, Language
Summary: Draco decides to follow tradition and for the twelve days after Christmas, gives Harry Presents that are nothing like the Muggle song The Twelve Days of Christmas.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoat Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Test reader:
Beta: The ever wonderful Keikokin.
The Twelve Days After Christmas (7 through12) OR
How Draco Drove Harry to Distraction with Tradition Day 7-12
Day seven dawned bright and Draco, the early bird, woke and readied himself for the day. Harry woke up resigned to the fact that there would be more birds delivered today and made a decision. With all the birds being delivered daily, he decided to become a bird hatchery and would make a business out of the gifts. It would fill his days waiting for his husband to come home and waiting for their children to be born. It would also give them extra money, not that they needed it, but the birds would pay for themselves eventually and the help Harry would have to hire to take care of them.
He wasn’t surprised this time when Stanley was at the door. He handed Harry another small box and delivery receipt. Before Harry could ask, he heard the number “17” and saw the poor man shake his head. Harry went into his family room that was once again clean and bird free. He opened the parchment and read”
Hello dearest,
On the seventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time they are pepper –up potions, we don’t need six more contraceptive potions), five golden cock rings, four eagle owls,
three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
That evening saw a tired Draco Malfoy enter his house to be greeted by his husband holding a pepper-up potion in one hand and the twirling the cock rings on a finger with a sadistic gleam in his eye. Draco was wondering what he’d created as he was tackled to the floor and Harry worked his “magic” on him. Eventually they fell asleep in front of the fireplace on the “bearskin rug made for bare bodies”. Harry’s favorite house-elf came to check on her masters. Shaking her head, she just covered them up and spelled the fire to keep them warm through the night.
On day eight, Draco stayed home to make sure Harry liked his latest gift. Harry opened the door to a smirking Stanley. “Just 17 birds, but you’ve got another surprise”. The other two delivery people herded the little group up to the door. “Mr. Potter-Malfoy, your little box and 8 tiny house-elves. Have a good day.” The three men left Harry staring at the house-elves and Draco frowned at the lack of emotion and action from Harry.
Harry yelled for Alicia his favorite house-elf. “Alicia, take them to the house-elf quarters and see to them. Give them the,” Harry stressed the next words, “House Uniforms. They may present themselves just before tea. Draco and I have things to discuss now. Thank you.”
Alicia waved a hand and all the house-elves popped out as one with just the smallest of popping sounds. Harry turned to Draco, grabbed him by the front of his trousers and pulled him into the library. He noticed his husband wasn’t as limber as normal. Pushing Draco down on the couch, Harry curled up next to him and opened the parchment and read:
My Dearest Husband Harry,
On the eighth day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
eight tiny house elves, seven Screech Owls, six more vials (I think this time they are muscle relaxant potions, we haven’t worked out two days in a row like that for years), five golden cock rings (we don’t have to use them all at once you know), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Harry ran a tentative hand over his husband’s thigh before leading him to the bearskin again. This time he waved his wand, transfiguring it to a mattress before leading Draco down on to it. He uncorked one vial and had Draco drink it straight down as he called for the blond’s favorite body lotion, pulling off all of Draco’s clothes except his underwear.
Calling for a throw from the couch, he pushed his husband flat before rolling him over then straddling his waist as he began warming the lotion between his hands. He began carefully rubbing Draco’s neck in a soothing massage. By the time Harry had massaged all the way down Draco’s back, the blond was gently snoring.
Harry shook his head, lay down next to him and covered them both. They would benefit from a nap, the rings could wait until later, and there was nothing that said they had to use them as soon as they got them. If Harry were to be honest with himself, he was tired and sore too. His poor brain hurt from trying to figure out what to do with all the birds. Sleep claimed him and it was a long nap, which lasted until the next morning.
Draco woke up first and stretched, trying to remember why he was in the library. Yesterday came back and he cuddled in close to Harry, feeling better by the minute. He knew the surprise to come for Harry today when Stanley showed up would be welcome; which raised the question, could he talk Stanley into coming to work for them, caring for the aviary since he apparently had the education, skill and experience? Yes, Draco decided that would be a good idea, Stanley would be able to oversee the other workmen arriving today. Draco needed to hurry to arrange all of this before Stanley showed up with a delivery.
Draco was successful in convincing Stanley. Now he only had to wait at home with Harry until the delivery arrived. He arrived home to find Harry and the new house-elves getting acquainted in the kitchen. The Gryffindor soon had him in the conversation, leading them all down to the aviary to help feed, water and clean up from the birds. Draco was better at issuing orders, so he stayed clear of the mess while Harry went right into it.
The Slytherin had enough and pulled his husband out of the birdhouse in time to hear the doorbell ring. With a suppressed shudder and an audible sigh, Harry went to the door. Today Stanley stood there with a smile on his face. “Mr. H.J. Potter-Malfoy, your delivery today sir. I’ll see you tomorrow.” With a jaunty Muggle salute he turned on his heels and whistled back to the wagon. “By the way, I put the 17 birds in the birdhouse. See you sir.”
Harry took the box and the parchment and walked to the family room. He opened the box and found the usual. Setting it aside he picked up the parchment and read it.
My Darling Harry,
On this ninth day after Christmas, your true loves gives to you:
Nine men to take care of your aviary, one is Stanley since he seemed to care for the birds being delivered and it was from his employer that I had been buying them. He knows his birds. You have also received eight new uniforms for the house-elves; I couldn’t see getting all those house-elves if we didn’t need them. You also received the traditional seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time they are wound cleaning potions to have on hand for the workers), five golden cock rings (we don’t have to use them all at once you know), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Harry reached out an arm to his husband who joined him on the couch. The Gryffindor reached up and placed the sweetest kiss Draco had had in a while on his lips. When they broke apart, Harry leaned his head on the broad shoulder. “Thank you dearest. I’m finally accepting the birds and the help is appreciated. The birds are too much for the little house-elves.”
Draco sighed and kissed Harry’s temple. “Yes dear, but as of tomorrow, Stanley will be handling that with the other eight men I hired. Yes, I had them all checked out thoroughly so they won’t hurt any of the birds. They will be safe. Now, let’s eat and go to bed. I’m feeling more “bendable” tonight than I was last night.”
Harry eased up and Draco followed him to the dining room where dinner was served and they retired to their rooms for the night. They didn’t use all five of the rings that night, but they did make a start again. Draco decided something else would have to find its way into that ring box for the next couple of days.
Ambling down to the aviary the next morning after breakfast, Harry
discovered he much preferred the bird’s songs in small doses. After hearing all he could take, he went back to the house. When the doorbell rang he met a new delivery person that reminded him of his cousin Dudley. “Delivery for Mr. H J Potter-Malfoy. Sign here.” The parchment was thrust into his hand, after signing it he handed it back. The man shoved a Muggle looking envelope into his hand followed by .the box.
The delivery man stopped Harry from shutting the door with “Here, mate, where do you want me to dump this shitty lot of birds?”
Harry’s eyes blazed. How dare this oaf speak of his birds thusly? With a hand flick, he pushed his hair off his forehead and let out an exaggerated sigh. The delivery guy’s eyes widened when he realized who he had just upset. Harry glared his best Malfoy imitation and sneered “Leave them right here. I trust my house-elves to move them better than you.” Harry glared again and the man retreated to his delivery wagon not seeing the hand wave or his nose turn into a beak.
Harry called for Alicia and the other elves to move the frightened birds to the aviary. He knew Stanley would have it sorted out in a tick and prevent nervous damage to the birds. Harry wished he would have hexed that jackass and only hoped he didn’t make the next couple of deliveries.
Harry took the parchment and box to the bedroom this time and climbed up on the bed to read. He opened the scroll and read:
Dearest Harry, my beloved,
On this tenth day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Ten tickets to your favorite Quidditch teams’ games, nine sets of uniforms for the men to take care of your aviary, eight new uniforms for the house-elves. You also received the traditional seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time there are six cases of Mrs. Scowers Magical Mess Removers for the aviary), five golden cock rings (our collection is growing), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Draco found Harry asleep in bed when he came in that evening. He ordered dinner brought to their suite and gently woke his husband to share dinner with him. Afterwards, Harry was quite content when they made slow love with each other, showered together and climbed in bed for the night. Just before he drifted off to sleep, he smiled as things began to flitter through his mind at what Draco may come up with for days 11 and 12.
On the eleventh day after Christmas, Harry wasn’t surprised to find a different delivery man at his door. This young man smiled at him as if he knew what had been happening. “Mr. Potter-Malfoy, my brother Stanley said you were a good bloke and that I was to take the eleven bags and the 17 birds around to the aviary. I still need you to sign for the other two parts of the delivery sir.”
Harry smiled at the youth, signed for the parcels and tipped the boy as he pointed where the path was to the aviary. The boy nodded and turned back to his work. Harry walked back into the house to read his letter. Curling up in the chair next to the fireplace in the library, he called for Alicia to bring him a cup of the Muggle Vanilla Cappuccino to drink as he read his letter.
My Darling Lover,
On this eleventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Eleven days away, just the two of us at your choice of locations, ten days of private tutoring for both of us on avian breeding, nine sets of earplugs (you can’t use a silencing spell on the birds), 8 different floor plans for the expansion of our home and the avian house, the traditional seven Screech Owls, six tubes of ultra slick lube (I want to try those rings out some more), five golden Earrings (I know, I changed them, These earrings are for us, they have been spelled for protections but better than that, they will magically accessorize any outfit you put on), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. Soon, love, I’ll stop having the birds delivered. Until then, just know that it’s tradition.
Lovingly,
Draco.
Draco came home and found Harry nodding off to sleep in the blond’s favorite chair. Walking quietly over to him, he scooped him up and settled them both in his chair. He kissed his husband long and passionately before breaking off the kiss. “Draco the days away and the tutoring are going to be fabulous. The earrings were a special treat. Let me show you how much I appreciate them.”
What started out slowly in the chair wound up being furthered on the chair, the couch, the rug, the hallway alcove, the landing at the top of the stairs until they finally reached their bed. Even after their years together, they still found great pleasure with each other.
Harry had one last idea and enlarged the five earrings and suspended them from the ceiling. Grabbing Draco off the bed, he pulled him to the rings. “Watch, Draco”.
He grabbed two of them and pulled himself up. He pushed his feet and ankles through the other two. “Now, Draco, for a little fun. Any ideas?”
Draco took immense care in showing Harry his ideas, especially with the fifth ring that they used as an altered cock ring. When both were sated and bone numb, Draco helped Harry down and carried him to the bed. Harry groaned in agony and Draco began rubbing the former Gryffindor’s sore muscles. The raven-haired beauty relaxed under his husband’s attentive hands and soon slept. The blond curled around his husband and joined him in slumber.
The Twelfth day after Christmas saw Draco sneaking out of bed. He had a few things to arrange for his darling. Leaving a note on his pillow saying he would be home soon, he snuck out.
Harry woke up and reached for the note. He read it and smirked. What was the crazy blond up to now? Getting up, he went through his routines, actually enjoying the birdsongs now so would spend longer with them.
Alicia popped into the birdhouse. “Master Harry, please come to the house. You have visitors and Snarky man says he has to see you.”
Harry got up and followed her into the house. Pacing back and forth was none other than Severus Snape. He smirked, they had called a “truce” for Draco’s benefit, but when alone like this, the old sniping patterns returned. Both were happy with the arrangement. “Well, well, if it isn’t my godfather-in-law. Tell me Sev; is that even a proper title? Doesn’t matter, it usually means something not pleasant for me at least.” He stopped and glared at the Slytherin.
Severus tried to smirk. He decided to try to talk to the young man. “Harry you are right about our past history. I think what I have to tell you and Draco will either make you totally hate me or totally accept me. Is Draco home by any chance? I need to talk to you about the conception potions I gave him.”
Harry narrowed his eyes, watching the man. He was nervous, that much was apparent. “I expect him back at any time now. He said he’d be right back. Would you like to see what my Dragon has been giving me for the traditional twelve days or I could just sing it to you?” Harry had barely finished saying it before he broke out into song.
“On this eleventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you: Eleven days away, ten days of private tutoring on avian breeding, nine sets of earplugs, eight different floor plans, seven Screech Owls, six tubes of ultra slick lube, five golden Earrings, four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix.”
Harry stopped and drew a deep breath. “But that’s just yesterday’s gifts. You should see it from the other days. I get all the same birds, but I’ve gotten other items that are good too. So tell me Uncle Sev, what brings you here?” Harry deliberately did that to throw the Potion Master off stride, hoping to get him to reveal what he was upset about before Draco got home.
Severus just sneered. “It didn’t work then Harry, it won’t work now. I’ll wait for Draco and tell it only once. In the meantime…” Severus was cut off as the front door banged closed, announcing the arrival of Draco.
“Honey, I’m home. Where are you? Feel like playing? I’ve had some other ideas for those rings.” He walked into the family room to find his husband just settling onto the couch and his godfather pacing. “Oops, we’ll discuss that later sweetheart. Hello Uncle Sev, good to see you. Have you had something to drink yet?” Draco called for Alicia and ordered tea and biscuits as he shook his former mentor’s hand before walking over to his husband. Leaning down he kissed Harry hard and deep before turning to Severus.
“Sit down Severus, I haven’t seen you pace like this since the last time you tried to pull a prank on someone and it backfired in your face. It was funny though, to see the Weasley’s with blond hair for two weeks.” All three men snickered at the memory.
Severus finally sat, took a drink of his tea that had appeared in front of him and watched the couple on the couch. This was one screw up that would go down in the Hogwarts books for eternity. He could see it printed as either “Professor Pranked wrong Couple and Pays Dearly” or “Professor’s Prank leads to Potter-Malfoy Multiple Pregnancies.” Either way, he would make the history books and not the way he wanted to. Now all he had to do was tell them.
Before he could speak, the doorbell rang. Harry kissed Draco quickly and went running for the door. He opened it to see several delivery trucks out front from different places. Stanley’s younger brother was standing in the queue to make his deliveries. All the delivery people intoned “Delivery for Mr. H J Potter-Malfoy. Please sign here. Where would you like the delivery?”
Harry told the one to take the birds around to the avian house, took the box from him and waved the others into the foyer. Twelve men each levitated a huge box into the foyer and set them down gently and dispersed the boxes from around the deliveries. Harry tipped each one on the way out. When they were all out of the house and the door was shut, Harry yelled, “Draaaccco!”
Draco and Severus came to see what it was that had Harry yelling. The young raven haired man launched himself at Draco. Wrapping his arms around the blond’s neck, he began kissing him. He didn’t care if he had an audience, most people were used to seeing them embracing and kissing, it was a frequent occurrence with them.
Snape looked around the foyer and shook his head. He firmly believed that his godson was either besotted or insane. It was a fine line. He glanced at the two who had broken off the kiss and were now just holding each other.
Draco handed Harry the parchment to read. Harry wiped his eyes dry and broke the seal and unrolled it.
To my only beloved,
On this the twelfth day after Christmas, I’ve broken tradition and given you something else. You still received the 17 birds but there is more as you can see around you. The first thing you’ll undoubtedly do is open the box. Opened it? Good. Inside are Five golden rings, I got them in the hopes that someday we can give one to each of our children for their spouses. They will become the new heirlooms for our family. Each one, if you look closely, has the number of years we’ve been together in rubies for the Gryffindor colours and emeralds for the Slytherin side. You are my life, my joy, my love.
Now for the rest of the delivery; I’ve given you flowers before, but this time I’ve put a little more thought into each one. Here goes:
For the twelfth day, I give you twelve Forget Me Nots, symbolizing our true love
For the eleventh day, I give you eleven containers of White Heather, showing I will make your wishes come true.
For the tenth day, I give you Ivy, proving our wedded love and fidelity
For the ninth day, I give you nine Holly plants. They are a symbol of domestic happiness.
For the eighth day after Christmas, I give you eight Bachelor Button plants. They show my anticipation of the wonderful things we will do in our lives with each other.
For the seventh day it had to be Primrose. They tell you that I can’t live without you.
The sixth day is Tuberoses for our pleasure.
The fifth day I give you Phlox, our souls are united.
The fourth day brings you Violets for faithfulness.
The third day will see you with a dozen of assorted Roses, showing you are everything to me and one single full bloom meaning I love you.
The second day I would give you a Bird of Paradise flower. It means Beginnings, exciting and wonderful anticipation.
For the first day after Christmas, I would give you a Purple Lilac that will tell you that you are my first love.
I wanted to say it in flowers. I got them so you can create your own garden with them, outside or inside. If you want, I’ll build you a conservatory for them or we can incorporate them with the birds. What ever you want my love, it’s yours.
I moved away from tradition for the flowers, but I stayed with their traditional meanings.
I love you Harry, now and always. I’ll make it a new tradition to tell you that every day too.
Forever yours,
Draco
Harry finished reading the parchment, set it down gently and wrapped himself around Draco, not caring how fast the tears were flowing; and forgetting Severus was in the room. Draco held him tight with one arm and stroked the ebony hair with his other hand trying to settle him down. Finally, Harry stopped crying and placed a kiss on Draco’s lips and sighed into the blond’s neck.
Severus’ nervousness only grew at the sight of Harry’s reaction. That wasn’t good for the young man and how would he take the next news he heard? Severus decided to not tell them exactly what he’d done. They would find out soon enough. There were a whole different set of conditions with male pregnancy and they would go to the doctor’s once he gave them a gentle push in the right direction.
Clearing his throat, he got their attention. “Gentlemen, I’ll take my leave of you now. You have other things to talk about it seems. I would tell you before I leave that if you used the conception potion I brewed, you may want to see your family doctor and soon. I’ll talk to you after that visit. Happy Seasons Greetings boys, this is one year you won’t forget.” With an evil sounding cackle, the man disapparted out of their house instead of using the doors. They looked at each other wondering at his cryptic comments. But they soon forgot the incident as their passions flared amongst the combined scents of the flowers before proceeding to express their feelings body to body right amongst the flowers.
While the two lovers took great care of each other, the Potion Master was busy reviewing his notes on his potion. He couldn’t believe he’d made that kind of a mistake, it didn’t seem possible. Severus knew there was no way to explain to them why they would be having multiple births with each vial unless he admitted to his mistake. Would Severus Snape admit such a mistake to either of them? Not hardly, but with any luck, they wouldn’t use the other vials so they would think it was a “miracle” that it happened only the one time. Or he could outright lie about it and said he thought it was for the birds to help with their population and he was sorry to tell them they would have multiple births. Either way, he would be lucky if Harry and Draco didn’t bury him in all the bird feces they would have by then.
He tried to keep the mirth from escaping from his lips. He lost. Across the miles, two lovers were quietly planning for the plant and bird expansions. Wait until they realized they had to plan on the expansion for their children!
A/N: Meanings for the flowers were borrowed from: http://www.clareflorist.co.uk/meanings.asp
A/N added 12/25/2005: I just heard on the news tonight, that for the traditional gifts for the twelve days after Christmas (yes, that is the time from Christmas to the Epiphany and The Song started as a memory game for children) the total would be in USD $72608.00 in 2005. If anyone wants the breakdown, just email me at never_tempt@yahoo.com with 12 Days in the subject line and I'll be happy to write it out as they told it on the news tonight. Happy Holidays to All !
Author& Notes: never_tempt aka cameowitch
Email: meandmine1@verizon.net
Status/Part: Part 2/2
Rating: NC-17 FRAO
Pairing: HP/DM
Date: Dec 2005
Key words: M/M, Language
Summary: Draco decides to follow tradition and for the twelve days after Christmas, gives Harry Presents that are nothing like the Muggle song The Twelve Days of Christmas.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoat Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Test reader:
Beta: The ever wonderful Keikokin.
The Twelve Days After Christmas (7 through12) OR
How Draco Drove Harry to Distraction with Tradition Day 7-12
Day seven dawned bright and Draco, the early bird, woke and readied himself for the day. Harry woke up resigned to the fact that there would be more birds delivered today and made a decision. With all the birds being delivered daily, he decided to become a bird hatchery and would make a business out of the gifts. It would fill his days waiting for his husband to come home and waiting for their children to be born. It would also give them extra money, not that they needed it, but the birds would pay for themselves eventually and the help Harry would have to hire to take care of them.
He wasn’t surprised this time when Stanley was at the door. He handed Harry another small box and delivery receipt. Before Harry could ask, he heard the number “17” and saw the poor man shake his head. Harry went into his family room that was once again clean and bird free. He opened the parchment and read”
Hello dearest,
On the seventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time they are pepper –up potions, we don’t need six more contraceptive potions), five golden cock rings, four eagle owls,
three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
That evening saw a tired Draco Malfoy enter his house to be greeted by his husband holding a pepper-up potion in one hand and the twirling the cock rings on a finger with a sadistic gleam in his eye. Draco was wondering what he’d created as he was tackled to the floor and Harry worked his “magic” on him. Eventually they fell asleep in front of the fireplace on the “bearskin rug made for bare bodies”. Harry’s favorite house-elf came to check on her masters. Shaking her head, she just covered them up and spelled the fire to keep them warm through the night.
On day eight, Draco stayed home to make sure Harry liked his latest gift. Harry opened the door to a smirking Stanley. “Just 17 birds, but you’ve got another surprise”. The other two delivery people herded the little group up to the door. “Mr. Potter-Malfoy, your little box and 8 tiny house-elves. Have a good day.” The three men left Harry staring at the house-elves and Draco frowned at the lack of emotion and action from Harry.
Harry yelled for Alicia his favorite house-elf. “Alicia, take them to the house-elf quarters and see to them. Give them the,” Harry stressed the next words, “House Uniforms. They may present themselves just before tea. Draco and I have things to discuss now. Thank you.”
Alicia waved a hand and all the house-elves popped out as one with just the smallest of popping sounds. Harry turned to Draco, grabbed him by the front of his trousers and pulled him into the library. He noticed his husband wasn’t as limber as normal. Pushing Draco down on the couch, Harry curled up next to him and opened the parchment and read:
My Dearest Husband Harry,
On the eighth day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
eight tiny house elves, seven Screech Owls, six more vials (I think this time they are muscle relaxant potions, we haven’t worked out two days in a row like that for years), five golden cock rings (we don’t have to use them all at once you know), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Harry ran a tentative hand over his husband’s thigh before leading him to the bearskin again. This time he waved his wand, transfiguring it to a mattress before leading Draco down on to it. He uncorked one vial and had Draco drink it straight down as he called for the blond’s favorite body lotion, pulling off all of Draco’s clothes except his underwear.
Calling for a throw from the couch, he pushed his husband flat before rolling him over then straddling his waist as he began warming the lotion between his hands. He began carefully rubbing Draco’s neck in a soothing massage. By the time Harry had massaged all the way down Draco’s back, the blond was gently snoring.
Harry shook his head, lay down next to him and covered them both. They would benefit from a nap, the rings could wait until later, and there was nothing that said they had to use them as soon as they got them. If Harry were to be honest with himself, he was tired and sore too. His poor brain hurt from trying to figure out what to do with all the birds. Sleep claimed him and it was a long nap, which lasted until the next morning.
Draco woke up first and stretched, trying to remember why he was in the library. Yesterday came back and he cuddled in close to Harry, feeling better by the minute. He knew the surprise to come for Harry today when Stanley showed up would be welcome; which raised the question, could he talk Stanley into coming to work for them, caring for the aviary since he apparently had the education, skill and experience? Yes, Draco decided that would be a good idea, Stanley would be able to oversee the other workmen arriving today. Draco needed to hurry to arrange all of this before Stanley showed up with a delivery.
Draco was successful in convincing Stanley. Now he only had to wait at home with Harry until the delivery arrived. He arrived home to find Harry and the new house-elves getting acquainted in the kitchen. The Gryffindor soon had him in the conversation, leading them all down to the aviary to help feed, water and clean up from the birds. Draco was better at issuing orders, so he stayed clear of the mess while Harry went right into it.
The Slytherin had enough and pulled his husband out of the birdhouse in time to hear the doorbell ring. With a suppressed shudder and an audible sigh, Harry went to the door. Today Stanley stood there with a smile on his face. “Mr. H.J. Potter-Malfoy, your delivery today sir. I’ll see you tomorrow.” With a jaunty Muggle salute he turned on his heels and whistled back to the wagon. “By the way, I put the 17 birds in the birdhouse. See you sir.”
Harry took the box and the parchment and walked to the family room. He opened the box and found the usual. Setting it aside he picked up the parchment and read it.
My Darling Harry,
On this ninth day after Christmas, your true loves gives to you:
Nine men to take care of your aviary, one is Stanley since he seemed to care for the birds being delivered and it was from his employer that I had been buying them. He knows his birds. You have also received eight new uniforms for the house-elves; I couldn’t see getting all those house-elves if we didn’t need them. You also received the traditional seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time they are wound cleaning potions to have on hand for the workers), five golden cock rings (we don’t have to use them all at once you know), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Harry reached out an arm to his husband who joined him on the couch. The Gryffindor reached up and placed the sweetest kiss Draco had had in a while on his lips. When they broke apart, Harry leaned his head on the broad shoulder. “Thank you dearest. I’m finally accepting the birds and the help is appreciated. The birds are too much for the little house-elves.”
Draco sighed and kissed Harry’s temple. “Yes dear, but as of tomorrow, Stanley will be handling that with the other eight men I hired. Yes, I had them all checked out thoroughly so they won’t hurt any of the birds. They will be safe. Now, let’s eat and go to bed. I’m feeling more “bendable” tonight than I was last night.”
Harry eased up and Draco followed him to the dining room where dinner was served and they retired to their rooms for the night. They didn’t use all five of the rings that night, but they did make a start again. Draco decided something else would have to find its way into that ring box for the next couple of days.
Ambling down to the aviary the next morning after breakfast, Harry
discovered he much preferred the bird’s songs in small doses. After hearing all he could take, he went back to the house. When the doorbell rang he met a new delivery person that reminded him of his cousin Dudley. “Delivery for Mr. H J Potter-Malfoy. Sign here.” The parchment was thrust into his hand, after signing it he handed it back. The man shoved a Muggle looking envelope into his hand followed by .the box.
The delivery man stopped Harry from shutting the door with “Here, mate, where do you want me to dump this shitty lot of birds?”
Harry’s eyes blazed. How dare this oaf speak of his birds thusly? With a hand flick, he pushed his hair off his forehead and let out an exaggerated sigh. The delivery guy’s eyes widened when he realized who he had just upset. Harry glared his best Malfoy imitation and sneered “Leave them right here. I trust my house-elves to move them better than you.” Harry glared again and the man retreated to his delivery wagon not seeing the hand wave or his nose turn into a beak.
Harry called for Alicia and the other elves to move the frightened birds to the aviary. He knew Stanley would have it sorted out in a tick and prevent nervous damage to the birds. Harry wished he would have hexed that jackass and only hoped he didn’t make the next couple of deliveries.
Harry took the parchment and box to the bedroom this time and climbed up on the bed to read. He opened the scroll and read:
Dearest Harry, my beloved,
On this tenth day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Ten tickets to your favorite Quidditch teams’ games, nine sets of uniforms for the men to take care of your aviary, eight new uniforms for the house-elves. You also received the traditional seven Screech Owls, six more vials ( I think this time there are six cases of Mrs. Scowers Magical Mess Removers for the aviary), five golden cock rings (our collection is growing), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. It is tradition.
Love,
Draco
Draco found Harry asleep in bed when he came in that evening. He ordered dinner brought to their suite and gently woke his husband to share dinner with him. Afterwards, Harry was quite content when they made slow love with each other, showered together and climbed in bed for the night. Just before he drifted off to sleep, he smiled as things began to flitter through his mind at what Draco may come up with for days 11 and 12.
On the eleventh day after Christmas, Harry wasn’t surprised to find a different delivery man at his door. This young man smiled at him as if he knew what had been happening. “Mr. Potter-Malfoy, my brother Stanley said you were a good bloke and that I was to take the eleven bags and the 17 birds around to the aviary. I still need you to sign for the other two parts of the delivery sir.”
Harry smiled at the youth, signed for the parcels and tipped the boy as he pointed where the path was to the aviary. The boy nodded and turned back to his work. Harry walked back into the house to read his letter. Curling up in the chair next to the fireplace in the library, he called for Alicia to bring him a cup of the Muggle Vanilla Cappuccino to drink as he read his letter.
My Darling Lover,
On this eleventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you:
Eleven days away, just the two of us at your choice of locations, ten days of private tutoring for both of us on avian breeding, nine sets of earplugs (you can’t use a silencing spell on the birds), 8 different floor plans for the expansion of our home and the avian house, the traditional seven Screech Owls, six tubes of ultra slick lube (I want to try those rings out some more), five golden Earrings (I know, I changed them, These earrings are for us, they have been spelled for protections but better than that, they will magically accessorize any outfit you put on), four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix. Soon, love, I’ll stop having the birds delivered. Until then, just know that it’s tradition.
Lovingly,
Draco.
Draco came home and found Harry nodding off to sleep in the blond’s favorite chair. Walking quietly over to him, he scooped him up and settled them both in his chair. He kissed his husband long and passionately before breaking off the kiss. “Draco the days away and the tutoring are going to be fabulous. The earrings were a special treat. Let me show you how much I appreciate them.”
What started out slowly in the chair wound up being furthered on the chair, the couch, the rug, the hallway alcove, the landing at the top of the stairs until they finally reached their bed. Even after their years together, they still found great pleasure with each other.
Harry had one last idea and enlarged the five earrings and suspended them from the ceiling. Grabbing Draco off the bed, he pulled him to the rings. “Watch, Draco”.
He grabbed two of them and pulled himself up. He pushed his feet and ankles through the other two. “Now, Draco, for a little fun. Any ideas?”
Draco took immense care in showing Harry his ideas, especially with the fifth ring that they used as an altered cock ring. When both were sated and bone numb, Draco helped Harry down and carried him to the bed. Harry groaned in agony and Draco began rubbing the former Gryffindor’s sore muscles. The raven-haired beauty relaxed under his husband’s attentive hands and soon slept. The blond curled around his husband and joined him in slumber.
The Twelfth day after Christmas saw Draco sneaking out of bed. He had a few things to arrange for his darling. Leaving a note on his pillow saying he would be home soon, he snuck out.
Harry woke up and reached for the note. He read it and smirked. What was the crazy blond up to now? Getting up, he went through his routines, actually enjoying the birdsongs now so would spend longer with them.
Alicia popped into the birdhouse. “Master Harry, please come to the house. You have visitors and Snarky man says he has to see you.”
Harry got up and followed her into the house. Pacing back and forth was none other than Severus Snape. He smirked, they had called a “truce” for Draco’s benefit, but when alone like this, the old sniping patterns returned. Both were happy with the arrangement. “Well, well, if it isn’t my godfather-in-law. Tell me Sev; is that even a proper title? Doesn’t matter, it usually means something not pleasant for me at least.” He stopped and glared at the Slytherin.
Severus tried to smirk. He decided to try to talk to the young man. “Harry you are right about our past history. I think what I have to tell you and Draco will either make you totally hate me or totally accept me. Is Draco home by any chance? I need to talk to you about the conception potions I gave him.”
Harry narrowed his eyes, watching the man. He was nervous, that much was apparent. “I expect him back at any time now. He said he’d be right back. Would you like to see what my Dragon has been giving me for the traditional twelve days or I could just sing it to you?” Harry had barely finished saying it before he broke out into song.
“On this eleventh day after Christmas, your true love gives to you: Eleven days away, ten days of private tutoring on avian breeding, nine sets of earplugs, eight different floor plans, seven Screech Owls, six tubes of ultra slick lube, five golden Earrings, four eagle owls, three snowy owls, two mating Snidgets and a flaming red phoenix.”
Harry stopped and drew a deep breath. “But that’s just yesterday’s gifts. You should see it from the other days. I get all the same birds, but I’ve gotten other items that are good too. So tell me Uncle Sev, what brings you here?” Harry deliberately did that to throw the Potion Master off stride, hoping to get him to reveal what he was upset about before Draco got home.
Severus just sneered. “It didn’t work then Harry, it won’t work now. I’ll wait for Draco and tell it only once. In the meantime…” Severus was cut off as the front door banged closed, announcing the arrival of Draco.
“Honey, I’m home. Where are you? Feel like playing? I’ve had some other ideas for those rings.” He walked into the family room to find his husband just settling onto the couch and his godfather pacing. “Oops, we’ll discuss that later sweetheart. Hello Uncle Sev, good to see you. Have you had something to drink yet?” Draco called for Alicia and ordered tea and biscuits as he shook his former mentor’s hand before walking over to his husband. Leaning down he kissed Harry hard and deep before turning to Severus.
“Sit down Severus, I haven’t seen you pace like this since the last time you tried to pull a prank on someone and it backfired in your face. It was funny though, to see the Weasley’s with blond hair for two weeks.” All three men snickered at the memory.
Severus finally sat, took a drink of his tea that had appeared in front of him and watched the couple on the couch. This was one screw up that would go down in the Hogwarts books for eternity. He could see it printed as either “Professor Pranked wrong Couple and Pays Dearly” or “Professor’s Prank leads to Potter-Malfoy Multiple Pregnancies.” Either way, he would make the history books and not the way he wanted to. Now all he had to do was tell them.
Before he could speak, the doorbell rang. Harry kissed Draco quickly and went running for the door. He opened it to see several delivery trucks out front from different places. Stanley’s younger brother was standing in the queue to make his deliveries. All the delivery people intoned “Delivery for Mr. H J Potter-Malfoy. Please sign here. Where would you like the delivery?”
Harry told the one to take the birds around to the avian house, took the box from him and waved the others into the foyer. Twelve men each levitated a huge box into the foyer and set them down gently and dispersed the boxes from around the deliveries. Harry tipped each one on the way out. When they were all out of the house and the door was shut, Harry yelled, “Draaaccco!”
Draco and Severus came to see what it was that had Harry yelling. The young raven haired man launched himself at Draco. Wrapping his arms around the blond’s neck, he began kissing him. He didn’t care if he had an audience, most people were used to seeing them embracing and kissing, it was a frequent occurrence with them.
Snape looked around the foyer and shook his head. He firmly believed that his godson was either besotted or insane. It was a fine line. He glanced at the two who had broken off the kiss and were now just holding each other.
Draco handed Harry the parchment to read. Harry wiped his eyes dry and broke the seal and unrolled it.
To my only beloved,
On this the twelfth day after Christmas, I’ve broken tradition and given you something else. You still received the 17 birds but there is more as you can see around you. The first thing you’ll undoubtedly do is open the box. Opened it? Good. Inside are Five golden rings, I got them in the hopes that someday we can give one to each of our children for their spouses. They will become the new heirlooms for our family. Each one, if you look closely, has the number of years we’ve been together in rubies for the Gryffindor colours and emeralds for the Slytherin side. You are my life, my joy, my love.
Now for the rest of the delivery; I’ve given you flowers before, but this time I’ve put a little more thought into each one. Here goes:
For the twelfth day, I give you twelve Forget Me Nots, symbolizing our true love
For the eleventh day, I give you eleven containers of White Heather, showing I will make your wishes come true.
For the tenth day, I give you Ivy, proving our wedded love and fidelity
For the ninth day, I give you nine Holly plants. They are a symbol of domestic happiness.
For the eighth day after Christmas, I give you eight Bachelor Button plants. They show my anticipation of the wonderful things we will do in our lives with each other.
For the seventh day it had to be Primrose. They tell you that I can’t live without you.
The sixth day is Tuberoses for our pleasure.
The fifth day I give you Phlox, our souls are united.
The fourth day brings you Violets for faithfulness.
The third day will see you with a dozen of assorted Roses, showing you are everything to me and one single full bloom meaning I love you.
The second day I would give you a Bird of Paradise flower. It means Beginnings, exciting and wonderful anticipation.
For the first day after Christmas, I would give you a Purple Lilac that will tell you that you are my first love.
I wanted to say it in flowers. I got them so you can create your own garden with them, outside or inside. If you want, I’ll build you a conservatory for them or we can incorporate them with the birds. What ever you want my love, it’s yours.
I moved away from tradition for the flowers, but I stayed with their traditional meanings.
I love you Harry, now and always. I’ll make it a new tradition to tell you that every day too.
Forever yours,
Draco
Harry finished reading the parchment, set it down gently and wrapped himself around Draco, not caring how fast the tears were flowing; and forgetting Severus was in the room. Draco held him tight with one arm and stroked the ebony hair with his other hand trying to settle him down. Finally, Harry stopped crying and placed a kiss on Draco’s lips and sighed into the blond’s neck.
Severus’ nervousness only grew at the sight of Harry’s reaction. That wasn’t good for the young man and how would he take the next news he heard? Severus decided to not tell them exactly what he’d done. They would find out soon enough. There were a whole different set of conditions with male pregnancy and they would go to the doctor’s once he gave them a gentle push in the right direction.
Clearing his throat, he got their attention. “Gentlemen, I’ll take my leave of you now. You have other things to talk about it seems. I would tell you before I leave that if you used the conception potion I brewed, you may want to see your family doctor and soon. I’ll talk to you after that visit. Happy Seasons Greetings boys, this is one year you won’t forget.” With an evil sounding cackle, the man disapparted out of their house instead of using the doors. They looked at each other wondering at his cryptic comments. But they soon forgot the incident as their passions flared amongst the combined scents of the flowers before proceeding to express their feelings body to body right amongst the flowers.
While the two lovers took great care of each other, the Potion Master was busy reviewing his notes on his potion. He couldn’t believe he’d made that kind of a mistake, it didn’t seem possible. Severus knew there was no way to explain to them why they would be having multiple births with each vial unless he admitted to his mistake. Would Severus Snape admit such a mistake to either of them? Not hardly, but with any luck, they wouldn’t use the other vials so they would think it was a “miracle” that it happened only the one time. Or he could outright lie about it and said he thought it was for the birds to help with their population and he was sorry to tell them they would have multiple births. Either way, he would be lucky if Harry and Draco didn’t bury him in all the bird feces they would have by then.
He tried to keep the mirth from escaping from his lips. He lost. Across the miles, two lovers were quietly planning for the plant and bird expansions. Wait until they realized they had to plan on the expansion for their children!
A/N: Meanings for the flowers were borrowed from: http://www.clareflorist.co.uk/meanings.asp
A/N added 12/25/2005: I just heard on the news tonight, that for the traditional gifts for the twelve days after Christmas (yes, that is the time from Christmas to the Epiphany and The Song started as a memory game for children) the total would be in USD $72608.00 in 2005. If anyone wants the breakdown, just email me at never_tempt@yahoo.com with 12 Days in the subject line and I'll be happy to write it out as they told it on the news tonight. Happy Holidays to All !