Our First Noel

Disclaimer: I don\'t own Harry and Draco; they have only been borrowed for a little Christmas fluff. This is done in the spirit of fun. No money is being made at any time.

Chapter 3 – A Magical Christmas

Draco was the first to awake the next morning. Their bodies were twisted together in a haphazard fashion, legs intertwined, an arm this way, another that way, Harry’s head at an odd angle against Draco’s chest. There was no way Draco could move without disturbing the soundly sleeping Harry.

Draco gave Harry a little nudge, and seeing that the first did no good, gave him another, a little more forcefully this time. Harry rolled off Draco and groaned.

“Good morning, love,” said Draco. “Happy Christmas.”

Harry rubbed his eyes and yawned widely. “G’morning, happy Christmas,” he mumbled. “Wanna sleep.” Harry turned his back towards Draco, pulled the blanket up to his neck and promptly fell back into dreamland.

Draco sat up and stretched. “Holy mother of Merlin!” he exclaimed. “Harry! Harry, wake up! You’ve got to see this!” A gentle wake-up prod was not enough; this called for the big guns. Draco shook Harry soundly saying, “Get up, get up sleepyhead.”

“Stop it, Draco. Bloody hell, I’m awake. Can’t a bloke get a little extra kip around here? What is it you want me to…wow! Look at that!”

Harry and Draco sat before the Christmas tree, staring, their mouths open in awe. There, before them, was a veritable mountain of presents. There were so many that the tree was partially hidden. They had both charmed each other’s gifts so that they would appear under the tree of their own accord on Christmas morning.

“Is…is that all for us?” asked Harry incredulously. “I have never seen anything like that in my life!”

“Gee, d’ya think we went a tad overboard, Harry?”

“Probably, love, but who cares! Happy Christmas. Love you. How come you’re awake so early? Can’t wait to see your prezzies?” asked Harry after he finished snogging Draco thoroughly.

“I love you, too. Um, Harry? It’s not that early.”

“Huh? What time is it?”

“About 10:00.”

“WHAT!” shouted Harry as he jumped up with a groan.

A bewildered Draco asked, “What’s the matter?”

“My back is fucking killing me for one. Don’t ever let me fall asleep on the floor again. It’s 10:00! I should have been in the kitchen hours ago. I am so fucked! Everything is going to be late now.” Harry was struggling to pull on his sleep pants and dressing gown. “This is awful. There’s a lot of stuff that I should have done last night that I didn’t do. That turkey should have been in the oven hours ago. Did you see the size of that fucking thing? It’ll never be ready. Why did I have to get such a big one?”

“What about our presents? Aren’t we going to open them now?”

“Draco, they’ll have to wait. I have too much to do.”

Draco grabbed hold of Harry’s leg just as he flew by on the way to the kitchen.

“Let go! I don’t have time for games now, Draco.”

Draco stood and put his arms around Harry. “Calm down, Harry, everything will be fine.”

“Easy for you to say. Geroff!”

“Have you forgotten that you’re a Wizard Harry?”

“B-but I wanted to do it all myself.”

“You’ll still be doing it all yourself. You’ll be the one casting the spells so technically, it’ll be your handiwork.”

“I suppose.”

“Look, love, you know that I would help you out with the cooking but I think that it’s best if I don’t. We Malfoys don’t do kitchen very well.”

Harry allowed himself a laugh. “Yeah, Dray, I have noticed that. It took you so long to learn how to do a proper cup of coffee. Look, let me get everything started and then we’ll open up our presents. Deal? I promise to use magic.”

“Deal! What are you waiting for man, get cooking!” Harry gave Draco a quick kiss and trotted off in the direction of the kitchen, avoiding the trail of chocolate frogs still there from the night before.

“I’ll go for my shower,” called Draco as he inspected the brightly wrapped boxes under the tree, searching for those with his name. He could hardly wait.

A freshly washed Draco sauntered into the kitchen and slipped his arms around Harry’s waist and then kissed him on the side of his neck.

“Hmm, you smell nice, Draco. Stop! That tickles! I made coffee and there are some croissants in the basket on the table.”

“Yum,” said Draco as he took a bite of a jam-laden croissant.

The room was a hive of activity – vegetables were peeling themselves, knives were busy chopping, spoons were stirring pots on top of the cooker, Harry was stuffing the humungous bird.

“Have you eaten anything yet, Harry?”

“No, no time.”

Draco prepared another croissant and walked over to Harry’s side. He broke off a piece and said, “Open up.” When Harry complied, he popped the morsel into his mouth.

Continuing to feed his lover, Draco inquired, “Are you almost done?”

“Still have a few more things to do.”

Ten minutes later, he asked again. “Soon,” came Harry’s reply.

Eleven minutes later, Draco asked once more. “Crikey, who’s six years old now?” laughed Harry. “I promise, it won’t be too much longer. Do you think you can hold on ‘til then, little boy?”

“I suppose so,” whined Draco. He stuck his tongue out at Harry, just for good measure.

Draco had finished his fourth cup of coffee and was practically bouncing off the walls. He bit his tongue in order not to ask Harry again.

After twenty minutes, Harry said, “Dray, you disappoint me. Are you not going to ask?”

“I didn’t want to be a pain in the arse.”

“Since when has that stopped you?”

Draco blew Harry a raspberry. “Can we please open our gifts now?”

“Since I’ve finished for now, yes we can.”

“About fuckin’ time,” muttered Draco as he pulled Harry back into the living room. “Me first!” exclaimed the excited blonde.

Harry fished around for a gift and handed it to Draco. “You really are six years old at heart, aren’t you love?”

“Only when it comes to prezzies. Ooh, I love it! Thanks,” said Draco as he slipped the narrow platinum cuff bracelet on his wrist.

It took them well over an hour to unwrap everything. There were clothes, CDs, clothes, DVDs, clothes, cologne, a video game system (Draco couldn’t wait to try it out), clothes, a few naughty items from a sex shop (Harry couldn’t wait to try those!) clothes, books, more clothes, and still more clothes. The silliest gift of all made Harry burst out laughing as soon as he saw it. He opened the box and pulled out a white tee-shirt that had the words “Seekers Do It Better” emblazoned across the front. Draco had thought the novelty shirt was cute, but not that funny. When Draco opened his next present, he knew exactly why Harry had cracked up – inside was the very same “Seekers Do It Better” shirt!

“Finally a piece of clothing that we both agree on!” exclaimed Draco.

Harry had even dared to buy some real clothing for Draco. It had taken him awhile to decide, being unsure of his ability to pick out something that would meet with Draco’s tastes and high standards. In the end he had thrown caution to the wind and had selected some items that he personally liked. If Draco didn’t, well, Harry made sure he kept all the bills, just in case. Draco assured Harry that he loved all of his gifts, especially the clothing. Harry knew that the true test would be if Draco actually wore any of them; then and only then, would he know for sure. Draco offered to pick up the mess while Harry went for his bath.

“Thanks, my darling. Won’t be long,” said Harry with a kiss.

Once he had gone, a quick “Evanesco” took care of the torn wrapping paper and boxes, another quick spell sent all of their loot to the bedroom. Draco surveyed the room and put everything back in its proper place. Satisfied with his work, he opened up his new video game and began to read the installation instructions.

Harry emerged from the bedroom, smartly dressed and feeling at last ready to greet his guests. Draco had of course been right about using magic to help out with the dinner; it had taken a huge weight off his shoulders. Harry actually felt relaxed. Harry smiled; there were some strange sounds coming from the living room, ones that he knew exactly what they were.

“What are you doing, Draco?” inquired Harry with a grin.

“Blasting alien scum off the face of the planet. Take that you slimy bastards!”

“Like your new video game?”

“I love it!”

“I think I might have created a monster by buying you that, Draco Malfoy. Promise me you won’t go overboard.”

“Huh? What did you say, love?”

“I said I think you should get dressed now, Draco.”

“Do I have to?”

“Yes. You don’t still want to be in your jammies when our guests arrive, do you?”

“But…but I’m almost at the next level, Harry.” Harry did his best imitation of Snape. “Oh, okay,” said Draco with a sigh and a hound dog look. “I’ll just save my game and then I’ll go.” When he saw that Harry was still standing over him, he had no choice but to put the game away. He gave Harry a quick kiss and then slunk off to get dressed.

Harry shook his head and said with a smirk, “I’m in love with a six-year old.”

He went to the CD player and selected some nice, relaxing Christmas music. He lit the candles and refilled the candy dishes. To his great surprise, Draco had done a great job of cleaning up. He had even picked up the chocolate frogs. Just as Harry was popping one of them into his mouth, Draco came back from the bedroom. Harry was suddenly drooling, and it wasn’t because of the chocolate!

“Draco, you look fabulous!”

“Don’t I always?”

“Yes of course you do, but today you look just…wow!”

“Thank you. I have to congratulate you. You did a brilliant job picking this out. It is worthy of a Malfoy, my darling.”

Harry’s heart jumped. This was indeed high praise. Draco looked totally hot. His grey flannel pants fit him perfectly, just tight enough to show off his amazing ass. He had matched the pants with a cream-coloured cashmere turtleneck, which he wore with the sleeves pushed up. His new bracelet shone brilliantly by the light of the fire. Harry quickly pushed aside thoughts of divesting Draco of his new outfit. Harry would keep that pleasure for later.

“You look quite nice yourself, Harry, if I do say so myself.” Harry had also chosen to wear some new clothes. He had selected black pinwale cords with a pale green Oxford shirt and had opted for a casual no-tie look.

“Of course I look nice. I always do when you pick out my clothes.”

Draco smiled; he was proud of his fashion sense. “I was thinking, Harry, that I would go get mother now. I think it might be easier on her if she didn’t arrive and find a big crowd here.”

“That’s fine; do whatever you think is best. Are you nervous about her coming here?”

“To be honest, yes.”

“Don’t be. I explained your mum’s situation to everybody and they’re all okay with it. They understand.”

“Good. I won’t be long.” Harry heard the bang of Draco’s disapparation from the foyer.

Harry was in the kitchen when he heard Draco’s return. He, too, was nervous. He hoped that everything went smoothly and that Draco’s mum had a good time. He went out to greet them.

“Here, Mother, let me take your cloak,” said Draco softly.

Harry cleared his throat to let them know he was there. “Ahem.”

“Harry, come meet my mother,” said Draco holding out his hand. “Mother, this is Harry, my…boyfriend. Harry, this is my mother, Narcissa.”

Harry did not comment on Draco’s hesitation. “I am very pleased to meet you, Narcissa. Welcome to our home.” Harry took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

The older woman didn’t speak at first. She gazed around her, obviously unsure of her whereabouts. She looked at Harry and blinked. “You have pretty eyes.”

Harry smiled broadly. “Thank you, Narcissa. So do you.” Harry knew where Draco got his steel-grey eyes. He had inherited his mother’s eyes, just as he had done. “Let me take you to see our Christmas tree.”

Narcissa didn’t move. Draco stepped in, “Come with me, Mother. Harry wants to show you our tree.” He gave her a smile and she took his hand.

Standing in front of the big tree, Harry said, “Isn’t it beautiful? Draco and I decorated it ourselves.”

“Draco?”

“Yes, Mother, I’m right here.”

“Lucius?”

“No, Mother, I’m Draco. Father can’t be here with us tonight. He asked me to take care of you. Okay?”

Narcissa nodded and turned her attention to the tree. “So beautiful,” she said as she reached out and gingerly touched one of the glass balls.

Harry watched as she worked her way around the tree; she was obviously quite captivated by the brightly coloured baubles. He had only seen Narcissa a few times before – at the Quidditch World Cup and a few times at school functions. She had changed tremendously. He remembered her as being cool and aloof, a beautiful ice-princess. She had aged greatly, more than she should have in the few years since he had last seen her. Her eyes were vacant most of the time but every once in awhile, however, Harry noticed a little spark, just enough to let him know that this was indeed still a person, albeit a damaged one. Harry watched Draco, too. He was so gentle and patient with her. He showed his mother the little bird that he had had made for Harry, telling her the tale of how it came to be. She seemed to be enthralled with the story. Harry felt a surge of pride sweep through him. His Draco was a good man.

Harry tried again. “Narcissa, are you thirsty?” She nodded. “Would you come to the kitchen with me for a drink?”

He held out his hand to her and smiled. She hesitated briefly and then took the proffered hand. They walked slowly to the kitchen, with Harry quietly chatting to Narcissa about all kinds of things. Draco followed closely behind. Harry was so kind and patient with his mother. It made his heart swell with love and pride. Draco sat with his mother at the kitchen table while Harry poured their drinks.

“Smells good,” said Narcissa.

“That’s our turkey dinner, Mother. Harry is a very good cook. You’ll see.”

Harry said, “Thank you for the compliment, love.” He bent and gave Draco a quick buss on the lips.

Narcissa stared at Harry and he wondered if he shouldn’t have kissed Draco. His actions had perhaps scared the poor woman. He held out a glass of pumpkin juice.

Narcissa took the glass and took a large gulp of the cold, sweet liquid. “Thank you…Harry,” she said before turning back to her glass. Draco and Harry exchanged a quick glance; Narcissa was responding well to Harry. Both men felt greatly relieved.

They finished their refreshments and went back to the living room. Narcissa had settled in a nice comfy chair when a bang broke the air.

“Hello,” called out a pair of voices. It was Fred and George; they were the first to arrive. Harry went out to greet them.

“Mother, we have a lot of our friends coming to share our Christmas dinner. Don’t be nervous. They are all very nice.”

Harry escorted the twins into the living room. “You remember Draco, don’t you guys?”

“Of course we do,” they replied. “Nice to see you again.”

“Fred, George,” replied Draco as he shook their hands. “This is my mother, Narcissa.” Fred and George gave Draco a knowing look. “Mother, these are my friends, Fred and George Weasley.”

“We are very pleased to meet you, Narcissa,” said George.

“You have a very beautiful name,” added Fred.

Narcissa looked from Fred to George to Fred. “You are twins.”

“Yes, yes, we are indeed, Narcissa.”

“Can I interest you in a little something to drink?” asked Harry.

“Firewhisky would be grand,” replied George. Fred nodded.

“Coming right up.”

Harry was relieved; so far, so good. He was doubly relieved that the twins were keeping their promise to behave. Only eleven more people to arrive! Ginny came next, solo. Her boyfriend unfortunately had to work, even if it was Christmas day. Charlie arrived with his pregnant wife, Allison. Bill came next, also alone. He had been divorced from Fleur for two years. His two children were spending the holiday with their mother in France. Bill would have them for New Years. When Arthur and Molly arrived, Draco went with Harry to greet them. He felt nervous, since they were like Harry’s parents, he felt as if he were meeting his in-laws for the first time.

“Happy Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Nice to see you again,” said Draco trying hard to remain calm. “Let me take your cloaks.”

“Draco, nice to see you as well. Please, this is Arthur and I’m Molly. No sense standing on formality,” said Molly as she gave the astonished Draco a hug and a kiss.

“We’re not the formal kind, Draco,” added Arthur. “How about taking us to meet your mother?”

“Yes, of course. She’s in the living room with a good proportion of your children,” said Draco with a grin. The Weasleys’ reaction had taken him by surprise. He could see why Harry loved them; they were easy-going, simple people.

Hermione and Ron, along with their three children, Jasmine, four, Jennifer, two and Jeffrey, ten months, arrived last. Percy was estranged from his family and had not been heard from in many years. The children all knew how much this hurt their mother and therefore no one mentioned Percy’s name anymore.

“Harry! Good to see you, mate. It’s been awhile,” said Ron jovially.

“Yes, it certainly has,” added Hermione.

Harry gave them both a kiss and replied, “Well, I didn’t want to bother you. I know you’re both so busy, what with the new baby and all.”

“Nonsense, Harry. You’re both welcome anytime, you know that. Hello, Draco.”

“Hi Hermione,” said Draco. “Nice to see you again, Ron.”

Ron shook Draco’s hand, “Likewise, mate.

“Uncle Harry! Uncle Harry!”

Harry bent down and scooped up Jasmine. “How about a big kiss for your Uncle Harry? Don’t you look pretty, Jasmine! Is that your Christmas dress?”

“Uh-huh. Mummy bought it for me. I chosed it.”

“I chose it, love,” corrected Hermione.

“Sorry, Mummy. I chose it, Uncle Harry.”

“Good girl!” Harry felt a tug on his pants. “Hey there, little Jen. You want up, too?” Harry picked up Jennifer and gave her a kiss, making her giggle. “My, you’re both getting so big!”

“Mummy says we are growing like weeds.” Jasmine looked towards her mother for approval. Hermione’s smile told her she had used the right words this time.

“Speaking of growing, I’m going to put you both down now so I can see your baby brother. Okay?” The girls nodded.

“Can I hold him, Ron?”

“Of course, you can. Here you go.”

Harry took the baby in his arms. This one was a Weasley; there was no doubt about it. Jasmine and Jennifer had inherited their mother’s brown hair while Jeffrey’s was flaming red, just like his dad’s. Harry inhaled deeply. He loved the smell of baby, all clean and sweet.

“Isn’t he beautiful, Draco?”

Draco peered into the bundle in Harry’s arms. “Yes, he sure is.”

“You take him, Draco.”

Draco stiffened; he knew nothing about babies. Hell, this was the closest he’d ever been to one. “No thanks, Harry. You keep him.”

“C’mon, love, he’s so sweet.”

Draco backed away. “No, no thanks. I…I better go check on Mother.” With his words, he was gone.

“What the…” said a perplexed Harry.

“I think your boyfriend is a little intimidated by Jeffrey here,” said Ron taking back his son. “He was scared shitless.”

“Ron, language! Not in front of the children, please!”

“Sorry, ‘Mione,” said a sheepish Ron.

“Yes, Ron’s right. You shouldn’t try to force Draco to take the baby if he feels that uncomfortable.”

“Guess you’re both right. I didn’t realize. I’ll apologize later. Anyway, shall we go join the party? What do you say girls, shall we go find your Gran and Grandad? You know what, there might even be a present or two under the tree for you.”

Harry’s question was answered with shouts of joy. He took the two little girls by the hand and led the way.

Harry and Draco played Father Christmas for the second time that day. The girls loved their gifts and began playing with them immediately. The adults exchanged their presents and the air was soon filled “thank yous” and “you shouldn’t haves”. Draco thought he would cry when Molly handed a gift to his mother and then to himself. He knew that they didn’t have much money and the gesture touched him immensely. He vowed to make it up to them somehow.

The afternoon progressed wonderfully, far better than Harry had hoped. Since dinner was going to be a little later than he had planned, he kept his guests well supplied with drinks and nibbles. They sang Christmas carols and a few silly songs, the silliest coming from none other than Fred and George. Their antics had their eldest niece in a fit of giggles. Harry smirked; he had heard their song before and they had, thankfully, changed the lyrics. The original version was what could be described as ribald, VERY ribald. He could just imagine the tongue-lashing Molly would have given them if they had dared sing it in front of her, never mind the children. Fred and George could, on the odd occasion, be very wise. Today could definitely be classified as an odd occasion.

Naturally, all of the adults gave Draco’s new video game a go. Allison got herself killed so quickly, she gave up in frustration; Molly thought it was one of the most horrid things she had ever seen; Hermione couldn’t see the utility of it and therefore couldn’t understand how anyone could sit in front of it for hours, wasting precious time; the men, being men, adored it, especially Arthur. This little device fed perfectly into his penchant for all things electrical and Muggle. The lads had to practically pry the controller out of his hands so that Bill could have his turn. Arthur asked Ron in hushed tones if he knew of a way he could get one to work at the Burrow. Unfortunately for him, Molly had excellent hearing.

“Don’t you dare answer that question, Ron,” said Molly loudly. “Arthur Weasley, the only way that you’ll bring one of those vile things into my home will be over my dead body!”

“Yes, dear,” replied Arthur meekly. Satisfied, Molly walked away. Waiting this time until he was sure his wife was out of earshot, he leaned over to Ron again and said with a wink, “We’ll talk later, Son.” Ron gave his dad a knowing smile.

Narcissa was calm and seemed very happy, even when the crowd got a little boisterous. Molly kept her company and was very proud to show off her new grandson. Narcissa’s eyes grew wide when she saw the little one. “Oh, a baby!” she said softly.

Hermione nodded and Molly asked, “Would you like to hold him, Narcissa?”

“Yes, please!” she replied.

Draco hadn’t seen his mother look so alive in such a long time. He was so glad that he had brought her home for the day.

Narcissa took the baby and cradled it in her arms. She touched his cheek gently. “Not Draco?” she asked.

Draco knelt at his mother’s feet. “No Mother, I’m here. The baby’s name is Jeffrey.”

“Lucius?”

“No Mother, Father is not here. It’s Draco.”

Grey eyes met grey eyes. Narcissa reached out and stroked Draco’s cheek. “Son?”

Draco’s heart leapt with joy. “Yes Mother, it is me.”

“My Draco.”

“Yes! I love you, Mother.” It had been so long since she had truly recognized him.

Just as quickly as it had come, it was gone. The flame of recognition that had flickered all too briefly had been extinguished. Narcissa turned her attention back to the baby. “My little Draco,” she cooed. She was lost in her own world once again.

Draco stood and said, “Excuse me.” He left the room, with Harry following quickly behind.

“Are you okay, love?” asked Harry pulling Draco into a hug.

Draco held on tightly. Harry heard him gulp and take a deep breath. “I’ll be fine. Just give me a little time alone, okay?”

“I’m here if you need me, Dray. I love you,” whispered Harry.

“I know you do. Thanks. Go back to our guests now. Go on, my darling.” He gave Harry a kiss on the forehead and then shooed him away.

Harry reluctantly left Draco alone in the den. He fell to the leather sofa and buried his face in his hands. His mother’s moment of lucidity had made him realize just how much he missed her. He was determined not to cry, but it hurt so much. He permitted one or two tears to fall and then pushed them away, not allowing them to get the better of him. He sat in quiet reflection, trying to build up his courage to rejoin the party.

“Hello,” came a tiny voice.

Draco looked down. It was Ron’s oldest daughter, Jasmine. “Hello,” he replied, not really knowing what to say to the child.

“Why are you sad?” He never knew that children could be so perceptive. What should he answer? He decided the truth was always the best thing.

“I’m sad because my mummy is sick.”

“Oh,” replied Jasmine. “Can’t they make her better? My daddy took me to see a healer. She made me all better.”

“No, they can’t, Jasmine.”

“That is sad,” she said. After a moment of reflection, Jasmine said, “You know my name.”

“Yes I do.”

“Who are you?”

“I live here with your Uncle Harry. I’m his boyfriend.”

“What’s your name?”

“Draco.”

Jasmine climbed up on the sofa beside Draco. She reached up and patted his head. “Your hair is soft. I like it.”

Draco couldn’t help but chuckle. “Thank you Jasmine. That’s very sweet of you.”

“My daddy calls me sweetie sometimes. Can you colour with me?” She pointed to the crayons and colouring book that she had left on the floor.

Draco didn’t know what to answer. He decided it wouldn’t hurt to play with the child for a few minutes. “Okay.”

Jasmine clapped her hands in joy. “Goody,” she exclaimed as she hopped down. It wasn’t long before they were both on their stomachs, feet in the air, colouring away to their heart’s content.

“You colour good, Draco.”

“So do you, Jasmine. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more beautiful dragon.” The little girl was beaming.

After about fifteen minutes, Jasmine yawned broadly and stretched. “Sleepy,” she said. She crawled over and snuggled up to Draco’s chest, tucked her head under his chin and threaded her hand through his hair. Before he knew what was happening, Jasmine was fast asleep. Draco was stunned. What should he do? He didn’t want to wake her, so he did the only thing he could, he slipped his arms around her to keep her warm. It wasn’t very long before Draco himself was in dreamland.

Hermione suddenly realized that Jasmine had been out of the room for quite some time.

“Ron, can you please go see what Jasmine is up to? Make sure she’s not into something she shouldn’t.”

“Okay, love,” he answered with a smile and set out to find his girl. “Jasmine, where are you, honey?” he called. “Come to Daddy please.” No answer came. He looked in the kitchen, the loo, Harry and Draco’s room, the spare bedroom, but she was nowhere in sight. He was just starting to panic when he came upon the den. Ron headed quickly back to the living room.

“Hermione, could you come here for a minute, please?” asked Ron.

“Is something the matter,” asked Hermione.

Ron chuckled, “No, there’s nothing wrong. You’ve got to see this!” He led Hermione to the den.

“Will you look at that! Isn’t that the most precious thing you’ve ever seen?” cooed Hermione.

“Not bad for someone who was afraid to hold a baby just a couple of hours ago,” said Ron. “Should we wake them?”

“No, love, let them sleep. We’ll have to get them up for dinner pretty soon anyway.”

“Where are you going, Hermione?”

“To get Harry; he should see this, too.” Harry was busy putting the finishing touches on dinner when Hermione walked into the kitchen. “Harry, everything smells amazing. My mouth is watering!”

Harry grinned, “I hope the taste lives up to the smell.”

“I’ve had your cooking on many occasions. You’ve got nothing to worry about.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence, ‘Mione. I’m a little stressed out right now.” Hermione raised an eyebrow. “Okay, I’m a lot stressed out. You know me so well!”

“You’re right; I do, which is why I need you to come with me. I have something to show you.”

“Um, Hermione, now is not a good time. In case you haven’t noticed, I’m a tad busy at the moment. You can show me whatever it is later.”

“Sorry, it has to be now.”

“But…”

Hermione cut him off. “Trust me. It’ll only take a minute and I know you won’t want to miss this.” She held out her hand. “C’mon, Harry.”

Harry cast a quick spell on the wooden spoon so that it would stir for him, “Oh, okay then. Make it quick, though. If my gravy is lumpy it’ll be on your head, my girl,” said Harry with a grin. “Tell me what this is all about.”

Hermione put her finger to her lips and said, “Shh, not so loud, you’ll wake them?”

“Wake who?” asked Harry in hushed tones.

“Them,” pointed Hermione.

Harry peered into the den. He couldn’t believe his eyes! Jasmine was cuddled up to Draco, with a handful of his blonde locks held tightly in her chubby little fingers. They were both sound asleep, oblivious to the fact they were being spied upon. There were crayons strewn all over the floor. Draco had been colouring with Jasmine! Hermione watched Harry’s reaction. His hand flew up to this chest as he gave a little gasp. His eyes had misted over.

“Would you have wanted to miss this?” she asked quietly.

Harry shook his head. The sight of his beloved in such an angelic pose had, well, it had taken his breath away. There had never been anyone in Harry’s life that could affect him the way Draco did. It had begun from the day they first met. A cloud of mutual dislike quickly settled in upon them and it remained there until the day they met again at their reunion. They hated one another, one never missing an opportunity to get the better of the other. They became rivals in everything and anything, from their school work to Quidditch. Harry thought of Draco as a spoiled rich kid, snotty and snarky, evil and rotten to the core of his cold Slytherin heart, just like his Death Eater father. Draco’s opinion of Harry was no higher. To him, the Gryffindor was brave to the point of foolishness, a publicity whore, a fame seeker, inept and bumbling, a marginally intelligent creature who rode on the coat tails of his inexplicably smart Mudblood friend, and worst of all – a Mudblood himself. The day they graduated from Hogwarts was a happy day for both young men. Harry Potter went his way and so did Draco Malfoy, each thrilled that they would never, ever have to see one another again for as long as they lived.

Little did they know that on one fateful January evening, five years later, they would fall for each other like a ton of bricks. The intense physical attraction they had both felt that night blossomed very quickly into a full-blown romance, each madly, passionately in love with the other.

Harry often marvelled at Draco’s ever-changing moods and the complexity of his personality. As an adult, he was the complete opposite of what he had been as a child. Harry’s Draco was kind, considerate, generous, ever willing to please, loving. He had a wicked sense of humour, often reducing Harry to fits of laughter from just a small, but very well placed bon mot.

However hard he might try to hide them, certain traits from Draco’s past lingered still, some showing themselves very rarely, others being mere shadows of their former selves, but they remained nonetheless. When engaged in business matters, Draco occasionally found it useful to slip into his Slytherin persona. He wore it like a coat – something he could don for a brief moment and then discard. It was not something he enjoyed doing, he really didn’t like that side of himself, but being practical, he acknowledged its value and used it when required. Draco became arrogant, cold, calculating, and aloof. It served his purposes well, allowing him to be ruthless when necessary, to close a deal or to finagle what he desired. Draco Malfoy had garnered a reputation for being the ultimate businessman; he had a sharp tongue and was not afraid to use it. This was a side of himself that Harry never got to see.

Harry had seen tiny glimpses of the old Draco from time to time. He had come back with a vengeance one evening while he and Harry were dining in a very posh restaurant in Muggle London. The waiter had been downright rude to them both, inept and inattentive, in short – the waiter form hell. A snide comment made to Harry was the last straw for Draco. He gave the man a severe Slytherin tongue-lashing, one that Harry would never forget and he was sure that the waiter was still quaking in his boots to this very day. As he listened to Draco’s words slice into the man like a rapier, he felt very glad that he was Draco’s lover and no longer a possible target for the dreaded Malfoy temper. This was another aspect of their relationship that amazed Harry – he and Draco had not exchanged as much as a cross word. There had been no disagreements, no fights, not even a loud discussion. Harry had joked to Draco about this saying that it was inevitable that one day they would indeed have a fight and when they did, it was going to be the mother of all arguments.

Draco had answered, “You’re probably right, love, but just think of the make-up sex we’ll have afterwards!” To which Harry replied, “Leave it to you to think of something like that!” Draco just smirked and licked his lips lasciviously. Harry seriously considered picking a fight with Draco, just for the “afters” but in the end, he decided against it. The sex was already unbelievable as it was.

Of all the lovers that Harry had had, no one ever made him feel the way Draco could. Just a look from those grey eyes sent a chill down his spine. The merest brush of Draco’s lips against his skin made him tremble. Sometimes all it took was a sideways glance, an inadvertent bumping of an arm or a leg, a fleeting caress for Harry to become aroused. If by any chance Draco was being overtly sexual as well, coming on to Harry, stating in no uncertain terms what he would like to have done to himself or what he would do to Harry in return, it would to send Harry into a complete and utter meltdown. There was no other way to describe it. Draco Malfoy exuded sex, for Harry he was sex.

And now here was Draco, asleep with an innocent child in his arms, looking sweet and pure as the driven snow himself. A sharp contrast to the Draco of Christmas Eve, the Draco who had pranced wantonly around his living room, naked in all his glory, trying (and succeeding) to arouse and seduce his lover. The Draco who was so confident in himself that he was at ease clad in flannel and cashmere or just a tiny red ribbon. The Draco who loved Harry Potter more than life itself.

Seeing Harry’s reaction, Hermione asked, “You really and truly love him, don’t you Harry?”

“More than I could ever express, Hermione. Words can not do justice to how I feel about him. So often I ask myself if this is all real, is this really Draco Malfoy that I’m in love with, how in Merlin’s name can this be? Then I look at him, and he gives me a smile that goes right to my heart and I have my answer. Just look at him now with Jasmine – how can I not love him?” Hermione smiled; she recognized those emotions. Harry continued, “And as if all that wasn’t amazing enough, the real kicker is that he feels exactly the same way about me. I’m the luckiest chap on the face of the planet.”

“I’m happy for you, Harry – for both of you,” replied Hermione as she threw her arms around Harry’s shoulders.

“Thanks, ‘Mione. And thanks too for showing me this; you’re right – I wouldn’t have wanted to miss this for anything. Dinner’s almost ready, though. I better get back to the kitchen.”

“You go on; I’ll wake up our two sleepyheads here.” Harry gave her a smile and went back to his gravy.

Hermione knelt down on the floor and giving first Jasmine and then Draco a little nudge, she said gently, “Wake up, it’s time to eat.”

Jasmine sat up and blinked, not really knowing where she was. Her eyes slowly came into focus and, realizing that her mother was smiling at her, she flew into Hermione’s open arms.

Giving her daughter a squeeze, she asked, “Did you have a good nap, my darling?”

“Yes, Mummy,” replied the tiny voice.

Draco sat up and stretched. “Was I asleep too?”

“You both were,” said Hermione with a laugh. “You weren’t bothering Draco were you, Jasmine?”

“Oh no, Mummy. We were colouring. Look.” Jasmine broke free from her mother’s embrace and retrieved her colouring book from the floor. “See,” she said, holding the book open to their artwork.

“Did you do this, Jasmine?” The little girl nodded. “That is just lovely! You’re such a clever girl.”

“Look what Draco did, Mummy.”

Hermione laughed and said, “Draco is a clever boy, too.”

Jasmine giggled, “Silly Mummy.”

“Can you go show Daddy your picture, darling? I know he’ll want to see it.”

“Okay Mummy.” She ran off calling out, “Daddy! Daddy, look what I did!”

“I hope she didn’t disturb you, Draco.”

“No, not at all, Hermione. She’s a pretty cute kid. I didn’t mind in the least.”

“Good. Harry’s says dinner is almost ready. We should go.”

“It’s about time; I’m ravenous.”

Before they stood, Hermione leaned over and gave Draco a peck on the cheek.

“What was that for, Hermione?” asked a surprised Draco.

“You deserve it.”

“For what? I haven’t done anything.”

“Yes you have, Draco. Let’s go.” She slipped her arm through Draco’s and they walked arm in arm to the kitchen. Draco had no clue what she was talking about, but he didn’t mind. It felt nice to be appreciated, even if he didn’t know why. Hermione went to see to her children and Draco continued on into the kitchen.

“Need some help, love?” asked Draco as he planted a kiss on Harry’s cheek.

“Yes, if you wouldn’t mind taking that tray out. Thanks Draco. Just let me put a warming charm on each dish.” replied Harry waving his wand. Returning the kiss he had just received he said, “There, done. Off you go now, my love.”

Draco levitated the large tray and manoeuvred it to the dining room. Normally, there would not have space for fifteen people to have a sit-down dinner, but Harry had spelled the table in order to accommodate all of his guests comfortably. Draco set out the dishes of vegetables (peas, mashed turnip, carrots, green beans), potatoes – mashed and roast, gravy, stuffing, and rolls and then returned to the kitchen to bring out the platter of turkey that Harry had just finished carving. When the final item had been at last brought out, Harry and Draco went to the living room to summon their guests to the table.

“Uncle Harry, look!” cried Jasmine. She held out her book for him to see.

Harry dropped to his knee to get a closer look at what she had to show him. “Wow, Jasmine. Did you really do that?”

“Yes Uncle Harry.”

“You did such a good job! I’m very proud of you.”

Jasmine threw her arms around Harry’s neck and gave him a hug. “Draco did that one,” she said pointing to Draco’s picture.

“My Draco is very talented, too.”

“What does that mean, Uncle Harry?”

“Talented?” he repeated. Gazing lovingly up at Draco he answered, “It means that Draco is very, very good at what he does.” Taking Draco’s hand he added, “Everything he does.” The faint trace of pink that swept the blonde’s cheeks told Harry his lover was pleased with his words. Harry was sure no one else saw the blush but him. Jasmine nodded and ran back to her dad.

“If I may have everyone’s attention please!” called Harry. “Thank you. Draco and I are very pleased to announce that dinner is at long last served. Sorry for the delay, we, um, got a wee bit of a late start this morning.”

“Gee, I wonder why?” asked Fred with smirk. Everyone cracked up, including Harry and Draco themselves.

“Let’s not go there,” retorted Draco, the memory of their late night causing a sly grin to cross his face. “Please, if we could have you all in the dining room.” He turned to Harry, “I’ll right there.”

Draco crossed the room to where his mother was still seated. “Are you hungry, Mother?” he asked gently. Narcissa nodded. “Come with me then. Dinner is ready.”

Jasmine watched as Draco helped his mother to her seat beside his own. She then jumped down from her chair and ran over to Draco.

“Jasmine, love, where are you going? Come back to your seat, please,” said Hermione.

“No Mummy. I want to sit beside Uncle Draco.” Her words caused everyone to stop and look at Draco. Harry mouthed the words “Uncle Draco?” and broke into a grin.

“No sweetheart, I think it would be better if you sat next to me,” replied Hermione firmly.

“Please Mummy? I want to stay here.”

“Jasmine, please…”

Draco cut her off. “It’s fine if she wants to sit here. Really it is. It’s not everyday that I get to sit between two beautiful ladies.”

“Well, if you’re sure you don’t mind, Draco. All right then.”

“Yea!” cried Jasmine with delight.

“I’ll second that,” said Ron. “That means I get to sit next to you, love. It’s been quite awhile since I got to do that. Thanks Draco.” He gave Hermione a quick kiss.

Once all were seated, Draco made sure that everyone had a glass of wine. Even Jasmine got some “wine” too. Draco poured her a glass of a fizzy drink with just a splash of wine. “Here you are, Jasmine,” he said. “A special drink for a special girl.”

Bill stood. “Before we all dig into this magnificent feast that Harry has prepared for us, I’d like to say a few words. On behalf of all us Weasleys, I’d just like to thank you for a wonderful Christmas. For all the gifts, which were too much by the way, for your hospitality, for welcoming us so warmly into your home. If everyone could please raise your glasses… to Harry and Draco!”

“To Harry and Draco!” replied ten voices. “Cheers!”

It was Harry’s turn to stand. “Thank you. It is our pleasure to have you here with us today. Isn’t it, Draco?” Draco agreed enthusiastically. “If I have made you feel welcome, it is because I learned how from you all. It is I who wants to thank you for all the love you have shown me through the years. You aren’t my friends, you are my family. You were my only family until Draco came into my life. Now I have it all – brothers, lots of brothers, sisters, a mum and dad, and most of all, I have the love of my life. I love each and every one of you. Happy Christmas!”

The glasses were raised once again. “Happy Christmas!”

“Can we eat yet?” asked Ron.

Ron’s question sent a ripple of laughter around the table, from everyone except his mother. She was dismayed that her son had spoken at such an emotional moment.

“Ronald Weasley!”

“What Mum? Aren’t we all starving? I know I am.”

“Ron’s right. Let’s eat!” cried Harry and the food was attacked with gusto.

Ron smiled to himself. His little plan had worked. He had chosen that exact instant to speak because he knew that tears were just about to start falling. He knew his mum, his wife, and Harry all too well.

Harry need not have worried about his meal. It was perfect and the amount of food that was leftover was a testament to that fact. There wasn’t much left at all. Draco assisted his mother and Jasmine with their dinners. He served their plates, even cutting the turkey for them. He took the time to ensure that both of his ladies ate well, fussing over them, encouraging his mum to eat just a little more. Draco found that Narcissa had become painfully thin. It delighted him to see that she would eat, if he asked her. He praised Jasmine when she showed him her empty plate, pleasing the little girl immensely. It was quite obvious that Jasmine was smitten with Draco. To Harry, the opposite was also very evident.

Everyone ate to their heart and stomachs’ content and then adjourned to the living room to let the meal digest before taking on the daunting task of dessert. The table was cleared and Harry set the dishes to clean themselves. This was one of the times he was especially glad he was a Wizard; he loved cooking but hated the clean up. Satisfied that everything was under control, he joined the rest of his company just in time to partake in another round of Christmas carols.

When everyone had sung their last song and told their last joke, Harry brought out dessert. He had really outdone himself – Harry was a fantastic cook, but he was an even better baker. The sweet table had something for everyone’s taste: trifle, shortbread, mince pies, Maid of Honour tarts, Battenberg cake, Victoria sponge, chocolate gâteau, and of course, the crowning glory, a flaming Christmas plum pudding.

“Crikey Draco!” exclaimed George. “Just think, that could have been you!”

This time Draco’s blush was obvious to all. Draco vowed to get Harry back for that one later.

After many cups of tea and way too much dessert, it was time to call it a day. Harry thanked each and every one of their guests, with Draco adding his personal thanks for their kind treatment of his mother. One by one, they disapparated from the flat, leaving Narcissa the last to depart.

“I’ll take mother back now, Harry. I’ll just go get her.” Draco brought her to the foyer and helped her into her cloak.

“Thank you for coming, Narcissa. It was a pleasure to have you. I hope you enjoyed yourself,” said Harry giving her hand a squeeze. Narcissa didn’t reply.

She turned to Draco and said, “Lucius, where’s Draco?”

“I’m here, Mother.”

“The baby, get the baby.”

“Mother, Jeffrey went home with his parents.”

“Lucius, get Draco.” She was becoming agitated.

Draco sighed; he had no choice but to go along. “Not to worry, love. Dobby will look after Draco. Come along now.”

“Dobby?” She seemed to think for a moment. “Dobby will see to the baby.” The notion calmed her down.

“Won’t be long, Harry,” said Draco as he put his arm around his mother and disappeared.

“Poor Narcissa,” said Harry to himself. “Poor Draco, too.” He turned back to clean up the rest of the dishes.

Once satisfied that the flat was back in its normal state, he went to the bedroom, undressed and climbed into bed to wait for Draco’s return. He picked up his new book and began to read. Harry found that he couldn’t concentrate. It seemed to be taking Draco longer than it should to come back. He laid the book down on the bed beside him. Where was Draco? He breathed a sigh of relief when he at last heard the sound of Draco’s apparition.

“There you are! I was worried something happened. Did your Mum get settled back in okay?” said Harry.

Draco sat on the bed beside Harry. “Sorry, I didn’t think, love. I went for a little walk after I took mother back. Yes, she is all tucked in for the night.”

Harry reached out and gave Draco’s arm a squeeze. “It was hard for you, wasn’t it, love?”

“What Harry?”

“Today, being with your mother and, you know, everything that happened.”

Draco sighed. “Yeah, it was but at the same time it was wonderful. I think she had a good time, don’t you?” Harry nodded. “Also, she truly recognized me for the first time in a long while. It didn’t last long, but it was there nonetheless.”

“You should bring her back here soon, Dray. Perhaps she could spend the day here with just the two of us.”

Draco’s heart leapt. “Really? You mean it?”

“Of course, love!”

Harry always knew just the right thing to say to make him melt. Harry’s generosity was rewarded by a kiss.

“You’re freezing, Draco!” said Harry with a shiver. Draco nuzzled his head in Harry’s neck. “Cut it out!”

Draco laughed, “Just getting you back for telling Fred and George that I was afraid they’d turn me into a Christmas pudding.”

“Sorry, it just slipped out. Anyway, how did you enjoy your first Christmas with the Weasleys? It wasn’t too much for you, was it?”

“Much to my great surprise, I loved it. I had a great time. They’re certainly a fun family.”

“Good! I’m so glad.”

“It was so different from my childhood Christmases. Don’t get me wrong; they were nice and all, it’s just that compared to today, I can see they were pretty stuffy. I enjoyed myself, but I never had fun like today. I never thought that I would envy the Weasleys anything but I do. I envy them their family life.”

“I know how you feel, Draco ‘cuz I feel the same way. I’m just grateful that we get to share it now.”

“We’re a couple of blessed blokes, I’d say.”

“That we are, love,” agreed Harry. “Speaking of the Weasleys, you certainly got yourself an admirer today, Uncle Draco.”

“Heh, heh, I guess I did. She’s a pretty smart cookie, that little Jasmine. Takes after her mum, no doubt and she’s got impeccable taste in men as well.”

Harry burst out laughing, “You’re too much Draco Malfoy!”

With a glint in his eye, Draco asked, “What? It’s the truth. Why do you think she took a shine to me?”

“What about you?”

“Huh? She’s a cute kid.”

“That cute kid has got you wrapped around her little finger.”

Draco opened his mouth to protest, but shut it quickly. Harry was right; he was just as taken with her as she was with him. “Could be,” was all he would say on the subject.

Draco arose and went to the other side of the room and began to undress under the watchful eye of his lover. He padded, naked, into the loo.

“Bloody hell!” came a cry from the bathroom.

“What’s wrong, Draco?”

“This!” he said pointing to the side of his head. A lock of his hair was sticking straight out from the side of his head, perpendicular to the rest of his silken blonde locks.

Harry laughed, “Oh that! That’s where Jasmine had a hold of your hair while the two of you were napping.”

“You mean I’ve been walking around like this all evening?”

“Yup, ‘fraid so.”

“And you didn’t tell me?” asked a horrified Draco.

“Why would I tell you? You looked so adorable, Unkie Draco!”

“You git! How could you do this? Letting me be seen in public with my hair out of place!”

“Welcome to my world,” replied Harry with a grin. He had no remorse for his actions and didn’t even try to cover up that fact.

“Git!” cried Draco as he ran to the bed and then pounced on top of Harry, holding him down. “You are going to pay for this, Potter!”

Harry couldn’t keep a straight face. “Just how are you going to make me pay, Malfoy?”

“Like this.” Draco leaned forward and ran his bottom lip against Harry’s, just allowing the slightest of contact. He continued the feathery touch, using just his lip and the tip of his tongue, until Harry’s moan got the better of him. He delved deep into Harry’s mouth, savouring the lingering taste of sweet that remained. He shivered at the touch of Harry’s fingers as they ran down his spine. Draco was hard and so was Harry – he could feel a hard length beneath him, even through the comforter. Draco slithered to the floor and threw back the covers, exposing Harry to the cool air and his lustful gaze. Merlin, Harry looked delicious! The green eyes were aflame with passion, burning, begging for more. Harry tucked his hands behind his head and stretched, arching his back upwards and shifting his hips so that his groin moved up and down, taunting Draco, calling him down. Draco’s breath hitched as he felt Harry’s hand slip between his legs and cup his ass and pull him closer. Draco could not remain silent as he slid his cock into the same hot mouth that had captured his tongue only moments ago.

“Ha-r-ry!” hissed Draco. “Oh fuck, unh, yes!”

Harry held Draco’s balls in his hand, bouncing them lightly up and down, almost as if he was weighing them, while he sucked and teased Draco’s cock with his tongue. Draco suddenly felt rather selfish; he needed to taste Harry, to pleasure him as well, to be one with his lover. He withdrew reluctantly and kissed Harry, giving his cock a squeeze as well.

“Move into the middle of the bed, love, and lie on your side,” whispered Draco.

Harry moaned at the sudden contact and from Draco’s request; he knew what Draco had in mind. It was one of his favourite positions, for it allowed them both the opportunity to give and receive equally. He smiled as Draco slid beside him, his head towards the foot of the bed. He held his breath as he waited for Draco’s mouth to make first contact with his cock. He jumped as Draco’s hand firmly took hold of his shaft and pulled down the foreskin. Harry felt hot breath on his newly-exposed skin and knew that Draco’s lips were desperately close. Harry mimicked Draco’s actions. It was a little game that they played. One would make the first move, and the other would duplicate the actions. If Draco licked, Harry would lick; if he sucked, so would Harry. This would continue until one or the other could stand it no more and begin to move of his own accord.

Draco ran his tongue over the head of Harry’s cock, teasing the slit and the underside. Harry moaned and followed suit. He ran his lips up and down the shaft , dipped down to lick Harry’s balls and then dragged just the tip of his tongue all the way up and swirled it round and round the head. Harry had no trouble keeping up. Draco was getting dangerously close to coming and so he attacked Harry’s cock with gusto, sucking for all he was worth. The sensation made Harry stop to catch his breath. He knew that since Draco had had a head start on him, this was a sign for him to catch up. He kept his mouth off Draco’s cock until he himself was on the brink and then he engulfed Draco in one fell swoop, swallowing him down until his nose was buried in dark blonde curls. This was all that Draco needed. He came with a growl rumbling deep in his throat that Harry could feel on his cock. Harry withdrew his head just a little so that he could capture Draco’s cum without choking, taking it in greedily. Once Draco had recovered, he began to suck the hard cock in his mouth anew, using his hand for extra stimulation. Harry called out his name as he came, his face nuzzled against Draco’s now limp member. Draco rose up, kissed Harry’s heaving belly and then swung himself around so that he was facing the right way. He gave Harry a smile and a quick kiss before nestling himself in beside Harry, his head on his chest.

“Lovely, wasn’t it?” asked Draco.

“Always is, my darling,” replied a contented Harry.

After a few minutes, Draco began to squirm. “What’s wrong, Draco?”

“There’s something jabbing me in the backside.” Draco fished around in the bed and pulled out a book.

“Oh, sorry love,” offered Harry. “I was trying to read while I was waiting for you to come home.”

Draco looked at the book. “The Merlin Code” – Harry had been wanting to read this for so long. It had been on the best seller list in the Daily Prophet for months. Every time they passed by the display window of Flourish and Blotts, Harry always said would buy the book one of these days, just to see what all the fuss was about. Somehow, he never did, which is why Draco bought it for him for Christmas. Draco noticed something sticking out from the pages of the book.

“What’s this you’re using for a bookmark, Harry?” He opened the tome and discovered a length of ribbon, red satin ribbon. “This isn’t what I think it is, is it?”

“Your costume? It most certainly is. That little piece of satin is very precious to me, Draco. Every time I look at it, I’ll remember how you looked wearing just that and only that.”

Much to Harry’s surprise, Draco blushed profusely. “I hope I didn’t go overboard.”

“Draco, you saw what your little dance did to me. It wasn’t too much at all. I am a very fortunate fellow, having the sexiest Wizard on the earth do a striptease for me.”

Draco captured Harry’s lips in a deep kiss. “I love you Harry. Thanks for the best Christmas I ever had.” He settled back down against Harry and snuggled up tight.

“Love you too, Dray, so much. Thank you for everything as well,” said Harry, smiling at Draco’s sigh.

“So, how’s the book?”

“I don’t really know. I was too worried about you to read more than a couple of paragraphs.”

Draco held up the book, “Read it to me, love.”

Harry was surprised at Draco’s request. “Oh, I’d love to read it to you!”

Harry picked up his wand and cast a spell over the book so that it would hover at just the right level for him to see the text easily and so that he pages would turn themselves as needed. This left his hands free to hold Draco and caress him gently as he spoke. Draco closed his eyes and listened to Harry’s voice, content with his day and his life. He was home; Harry was his home. He couldn’t ask for more; Draco Malfoy was well-fed, well-satisfied, and most important of all, well-loved.

Fin