The Three Keys

A/N: I do not own any Harry Potter Characters, just my Laurel and her family and my peripheral characters.

Oh my darling friends - I gotta say, hands down, this is my most favorite chapter. I just love it. It’s filled to the brim with tons of Harry/Draco banter. I hope you’ll enjoy it as well.

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Ch 33 - BLOOD BONDS

Previously:

“Can I trust you?”

Harry closed his eyes and sighed resignedly. “Yes, I suppose so.”

“Diagon Alley.” Draco replied instantly.

Harry knew he’d already lost the battle. “What do you need me to do?” he sighed.

Draco set his shoulders straight and proud, swaggered to the door and turned, “Coming, Potter?”

Harry looked at Draco and at the door beyond and groaned, “Oh, bloody hell. What have I gotten myself into?”

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Draco and Harry walked out into the central hallway and Draco immediately grabbed Harry’s arm and steered him to the door directly opposite the den they just exited. Flinging the door wide Draco dragged a reluctant Harry in and shut it with a smart snap behind them.

Draco looked around the room and Harry’s eyebrows shot up in surprise when he heard Draco’s low whistle of approval and was amused when he turned to spy the obvious gleam of appreciation in his eyes.

They had wandered into the library.

Harry couldn’t help sounding snarky when he quipped, “Shall I leave you alone here to, er enjoy yourself? You seem to want to have some private time with the books.”

Draco groaned, “Potter, your manners are atrocious. Has anyone ever told you that before? You have absolutely no decorum.”

Harry looked taken aback. He was instantly offended.

True he was a little rough around the edges, but atrocious manners? Harry snorted, not doing much for Draco’s opinion of his etiquette, but Harry didn’t care. “You know what, Malfoy; I don’t give a fuck what you think of my manners. And, I’m not raising one bloody finger to help you!” he snapped, turned on his heel and headed for the door.

“Potter, Potter,” Draco sighed dramatically, “stop being such a git. Besides, your not helping me really isn’t a good idea for you and especially not for the Order.” he drawled.

Harry’s eyes flew wide and he stopped dead in his tracks. ‘How does he know about the Order?’ He turned back round and faced Draco. He was leaning against a tall bookcase looking quite smug.

“What ‘order’ are you referring to?” Harry said warily.

Draco shook his head, “Potter,” he chuckled, “after all these years I shouldn’t be, but yet I am still continually surprised at how completely clueless you really are. Don’t you know that Lord Voldemort knows all about the Order of the Phoenix? He knows, hell, I know everyone’s names…even where they live.”

Harry gulped nervously and suddenly became very angry. “Malfoy, what are you playing at? I thought we got all the bullocks out of the way last night? Are you implying that something is going to happen to the Order that you know about and yet again, failed to tell anyone?” he growled, taking a threatening step toward Draco.

Draco put up a hand to silence him and continued on casually, “Oh, you mean other than the fact that the Dark Lord and his mindless cronies are actively trying to kill you, which, by the way, I DID tell you. Or, have you already forgotten that?” Draco straightened up from the bookcase looking rather ashen, except for the two bright pink spots that flushed his pale cheeks. “Perhaps, I should show you the scar I’ll bear for the rest of my life to remind you.”

Harry halted in his tracks, his eyes slid closed, he HATED being indebted to ANYONE, least of all Malfoy. He knew, just knew, Draco was going to milk this for all its worth. ‘This is only going to end up being very bad for me.’

Draco watched with a raised eyebrow as he tapped an impatient finger against his cheek. He had Harry already. Harry just had to admit it to himself and once he did this whole thing would go a lot faster. Draco decided he’d had enough time to ponder, “Are you done waging war with yourself yet, Potter? I really don’t have all day.”

Harry’s eyes sparked angrily and groaned again. He found he did a lot of groaning around Malfoy. “Fine Malfoy, I get it. I owe you. Just tell me why we’re going to Diagon Alley and let’s get going.”

Draco considered Harry carefully for a minute, his eyes unreadable; his voice was low when he spoke. “You’d be willing to come along with me to Diagon Alley?” he asked.

Harry looked completely surprised. “Isn’t that what you wanted? You need my help and I’m going to help you. And like I told you, you’re not going anywhere alone, so let’s go.”

Draco looked at him thoughtfully, Harry had his arms crossed, he looked sullen, resigned and determined. Draco wondered now if he should move forward with his plan. Truthfully he REALLY didn’t want to, not in the least. The thought of being tied to Potter…Well it sent an unwelcome, icy chill down his spine.

To say he was reluctant would be a mild description, hesitant didn’t quite describe it either…terrified was probably the most accurate feeling he could pin down. Yes, Draco Malfoy was absolutely terrified of being bonded to Harry Potter. But, he knew Potter was going to need him in the all too near future, even if he didn’t realize or admit it yet. Harry was going to need him just as much or more than Draco needed him at this very moment.

Draco had considered back at the Manor what would be the best and most reliable method to keep tabs on Potter long term. He needed to be able to make sure he would always know when Harry was in trouble, and, despite the fact that it was the ABSOLUTE LAST thing in the world that he wanted to do, Draco knew instantly what his best option was. It just so happened that now it also suited his needs. And despite what Harry thought, he wasn’t going anywhere with Draco.

Draco needed him here to keep an eye out on Laurel and that was final. Regardless of that fact, Harry was now an even bigger target and no way was Draco going to go through renouncing his father and Voldemort and then take Harry out in the open only to get him killed. That would mean everything he had done would have been in vain, let alone being downright stupid and Draco was anything but stupid.

“Sorry, Potter,” Draco drawled, “but you’re not going to be able to feed your insatiable ‘hero complex’ with me today.” ‘If I can at all help it.’

Harry’s eyes clouded over and his face grew dark. “What did you say?” he growled furiously, “Hero complex?”

Harry had been told that before and he didn’t like it or take it then, when it was told to him by his very best friends and he sure as hell wasn’t going to take it now coming from this sneaky, pompous Slytherin.

Harry was instantly besieged with painful memories of the one person he so desperately wanted to save and ultimately (he thought) was the cause of his death…Sirius. Harry blinked back a sudden sting of tears in his eyes and turned so Draco wouldn’t see his struggle.

As soon as he’d said it he’d regretted it, damn smart mouth. Draco was so used to shooting out insults at Potter that it was second nature. He remembered he had to keep his temper in check with him and immediately began backtracking. “Come on, Potter…” he said in a much softer voice; he saw Harry was visibly upset, though he didn’t know why. “You know just as well as I do, that you have the ‘I need to save the world and everyone in it’ syndrome. It’s what you were made for. You’re a bloody hero.”

Harry spun around at once and looked at him with stricken eyes, his voice uncharacteristically harsh, “Do you ACTUALLY think I LIKE being considered everyone’s ‘hero’? Do you think I like being their last, desperate measure for salvation? You don’t know what the hell you’re talking about, Malfoy.” Harry spat out venomously. “You have no clue, no idea what it is to be me! So, so just SOD OFF!” Harry had moved in a flash to stand directly in front of Draco, Harry’s breath hard on his face, the veins in his neck straining against flushed skin, his fists clenched.

Draco’s eyes narrowed slightly, from the look on Harry’s face he thought he might just pounce on him at any moment. ‘Well, well, well,’ Draco thought, ‘clearly I’ve found a button. I need to make a mental note to push that one when I have more time to enjoy watching him squirm.’

Draco took a slight step back and muttered mildly, “Mind your personal space, Potter.” He looked Harry over calmly, his steel blue gaze never wavering from him, ready to react if Harry should decide to attack. Harry’s eyes were wide and fierce and Draco realized quickly that he couldn’t have Harry backing out on him now, not when Draco was so very close to getting what he wanted from him.

‘DRACO!’ his mind shouted, ‘FIX THIS FAST…think, think.’

Draco licked his lips anxiously, his mind working quickly, ‘When faced with a riled up Gryffindor, what’s the best method to conquer? Easy – distraction.’ - “Fine Potter, whatever you say.” Draco relented. “I didn’t pull you aside to argue with you.” he ignored Harry’s scowl and steered the conversation back on track. “Don’t you even want to know what I’m going to Diagon Alley for?” Draco asked, watching to see if Harry would take the bait. He did.

Harry really didn’t want to fight Malfoy at the moment. He was tired and irritated and was sure he’d hurt Draco if he hit him too hard or hexed him. Draco had been seriously injured after all, just last night. Although, he thought ruefully, he really wouldn’t mind taking some frustration out on Malfoy for making him think about Sirius.

Harry sighed as he fought to control his spiraling temper, before Draco had gotten him upset thinking about the past, that was going to be his next question. Regaining some of his composure and calming down a little, Harry took a step back and snapped; “Yes. If I’m going to stick my neck out and help you, you bloody well are going to tell me!”

“It’s very simply really.” Draco began immediately, relief rolling over him at seeing Harry calm a bit. He started pacing back and forth, “I need to get my family business in order TODAY, as soon as possible. Once I have control of the family fortune; that will afford me the ability to financially back the Order.” Draco paused to see if Harry was following him.

“So,” Harry sighed, already weary from this conversation, “this is just about money.”

Draco looked truly flabbergasted. “Potter, do you have any idea how much money my family has? What kind of a fortune is mine rightfully to claim?” He looked at Harry, his lips set in a fine line. “Do you? I’m wealthy beyond you wildest dreams, Potter, believe me.”

Harry scoffed, “Oh, I doubt that, Malfoy. I can dream pretty big. Besides, I have plenty of money if the Order needs it. I’m very wealthy too you know.”

Harry looked rather pleased with himself. He had the few vaults his parents had left him, which he had been steadily building upon since he’d inherited them. But when Sirius died, he had willed Harry his portion of the Black family fortune and now Harry was indeed wealthy. He had in upwards of 150 vaults filled at Gringotts.

Draco looked at him like an adult would, appeasing a little child. “Yes, I suppose you do have some money. I seem to recall my relative willed you his inheritance after his…demise.” Draco stated. “But, Potter, what you have is NOTHING compared to what I have. I can easily finance the Order for the duration of our life time and never want for anything – ever.”

Harry rolled his eyes. He found he was rolling his eyes quite a lot around Malfoy too.

Draco grinned. “You’re thinking what? That I can’t have THAT much money, yes?” Shaking his head and crossing his arms over his chest, he inquired, “What do you have Potter, hum? Maybe a hundred, a hundred twenty-five vaults? That is a tidy little sum.” Harry scoffed, but Draco waved him off and continued, “Potter, I’m talking about REAL money.” Draco’s voice became serious, his eyes intense, “More money than some countries have, money that we don’t want to get into the WRONG HANDS…” he said, leadingly.

Harry was beginning to understand. His eyes got serious and turned very green.

‘Finally, he’s starting to get it.’ Draco sighed. “Yes, HARRY that’s right. If left to his own devices my father will use as much of the Malfoy fortune as possible to finance the Dark Lord’s progress; it does take money you know to keep him so well hidden, so well supplied with informants and provisions. I need to make sure that doesn’t continue to happen.”

“But why would your father waste away his fortune for Voldemort? What if he didn’t succeed? Where would he be then?”

Draco turned and said vehemently, “Spot on, Potter!” pounding a fist into his palm for effect. He stopped pacing and faced Harry, “He has to succeed. His risks are great and he stands to lose a lot more than just money if he doesn’t get the Dark Lord back into power. He will take chances and gamble. The more he loses the more mistakes he’ll start to make. My father is not a reckless man, but he’ll soon grow desperate and desperate men make mistakes. If we stay smart and a few steps ahead of him, between us, Potter, we can beat him. We have to.” Draco paused searching Harry’s eyes for his understanding, for his acceptance. “Do you see now, Harry? We can stop him; this will be just the first step of many. We will succeed, but only if we trust each other.”

“Is money really worth risking your life, Malfoy? REALLY worth it?”

“This is about more than money.” Draco growled, “It’s about my honor, my family, what I want to prove about myself. It's for my future….” he stopped abruptly, realizing he'd said to much and throwing his hands up in anger snarled, “NONE of this matters now, POTTER and I’ll not get into it any further. Are you or are you not going to help me!”

“How much?” Harry asked, not affected in the least by Draco's demands.

He didn’t see how any amount of riches was worth risking his life for. Even if it did mean Voldemort had some money to work with.

Draco looked at him, the anger leaving his face immediately, being replaced by a shrewd expression. He’d never told anyone how much money he truly had, it would intimidate and alienate him even more from everyone. He shrugged, “A lot.”

“How much, Malfoy?”

Draco sighed, “I don’t usually go about discussing my family’s financial standings with people.”

“I think you can tell me. I’m not one to be a bragger.” Harry taunted as he folded his arms and raised his eyebrows. “Oh, come on, Malfoy, you know you’re dying to rub it in my face how much more money you have than I. Just tell me and be done with it.” he sighed, exasperated.

“Well, if you really want to know…” Draco sighed, “Upwards of 7000, give or take and I’m quite sure that father has several more stocked away that I will discover today.”

“7000…VAULTS?” Harry croaked, “Filled with money?”

Draco scowled, “Yes vaults…what else would I be talking about? And some of them are filled with jewels and family valuables, but mostly money.” He looked at Harry, completely calm and unfazed. Harry’s mouth was agape; he simply couldn’t fathom how much that really was.

Draco looked mildly amused, one pale eyebrow arching slightly, “Since my father is a fugitive, I am in complete control of the family fortune and technically have been since he was put in prison. But as he had returned home after he escaped from Azkaban, I couldn’t really take control…But now I can, I have no reason not to - and I WILL.”

Harry nodded weakly. Draco’s eyes were blazing with determination. He was absolutely doing this, it was clear there was no arguing, that was certain. ‘No fucking wonder why Malfoy is such a conceited prick. His attitude is actually a lot better than I expected from someone that rich.’ Harry thought grudgingly.

“Alright, Malfoy,” he said, “how do you propose we get out of here?”

Draco smirked, “I thought you might change your mind. And it’s not WE, it’s ME.”

“No.” Harry said flatly. “I don’t care how much god-damned money you have, Malfoy, you’re NOT going out of here alone without anyone to help you if you get your arse in trouble. Money will do you no good if you’re dead.”

Draco smiled, his eyes glittering with satisfaction. ‘Perfect, Potter…Just follow my lead…’

“Tell me something I don’t know, Potter. Regardless, you can’t come with me, you have to stay here.” Draco continued, in what he hoped was a very sincere voice, “I need you to keep a watch on Laurel and her family…” he paused watching him closely, “And Ginny…” he added just for good measure. “If something happened to them while we were gone I would never forgive myself and neither would you.”

Draco’s eyes narrowed, hoping to see the desired effects playing on Harry’s emotions.

Harry grew quiet, his forehead furrowed in thought, “How did you know Ginny was here?” he asked, his eyes darkening, his tone suspicious.

Draco sighed, looking impatient and snapped, “I ran into her on my way downstairs, alright?” Harry twitched uncomfortably as Draco’s eyes glimmered evilly for a moment. “And I must say, she was very – grateful that I saved your arse. Thanked me quite nicely, I might add. You should ask her about it.” He smirked at Harry, arching his eyebrows and folding his arms casually.

Harry continued to eye him distrustfully before continuing, “I will. Now, how did you know there was going to be a Ministry meeting? You didn’t seem surprised at all when you went into that room.” he asked.

“Potter, come on!” Draco groaned, rolling his shoulders and rubbing his neck in frustration. “A club was attacked last night by Death Eaters trying to KILL YOU, the great, Harry-Fricking-Potter – again. A club at which YOU and I, a Malfoy were at – together. Filled, no less, with hundreds of unsuspecting, innocent, defenseless MUGGLES. And you expected there NOT to be some kind of Ministry inquiry?” Draco shook his head, muttering under his breath, “Idiot! Honestly!” He began pacing again, reminding Harry of a caged, wild animal.

Harry scowled at him and grumbled, “Right.”

“So, can we get back to the point? Are you going to help me by watching out for Laurel while I’m gone?”

“I don’t think you should go alone. After all, Ron would be here...” Harry said, sounding a little doubtful.

Draco knew now was NOT the time to criticize the Weasel so he just bit his tongue. “Yes, I suppose…Although, now don’t get all emotional on me,” Draco said in a gruff voice, “I don’t trust anyone other than you, aside from myself, Potter, to keep Laurel safe.”

Draco knew that would get him. It had to.

Harry’s eyes got very round and he looked away suddenly, fighting off a strong pang of guilt at Draco’s revelation. ‘You probably shouldn’t, Malfoy…’ he thought. ‘Cuz if I got the chance I’d try to steal her away again in a second.’

Harry was upset he was thinking like this. Even after seeing how Laurel and Draco were together just a short time ago, Harry just couldn’t get the taste of her skin from his lips, the moans that sent chills down his spine every time he thought about them, he could hear them now…And oh Lord, the feel of her hips pressed against his… 'NOT NOW POTTER!’ he scolded himself silently, running shaky hands through his hair and turning back to Draco.

“How can I stay here in good conscience and let you go out there alone?” Harry argued, a lot less vehemently than before. His guilt easing him into letting Malfoy do whatever he wanted against his better judgment.

‘Keep cool, Malfoy, almost there…’ Draco’s eyes flashed momentarily in success. “There is a way, Potter. It will alert you if I’m in trouble, it is never wrong, never falters. It’s our only option.”

If he could just get Harry to believe that he wanted him to wear it for his safety, instead of for Harry’s then Draco’s plan may just work.

Harry looked skeptical. “What is it?” He wasn’t particularly keen on doing some kind of dark magic spell with Ministry officials and Aurors crawling all over the house presently.

Draco reached into his pants pocket and withdrew his fist, fingers curled tightly around an unseen object. Slowly Draco opened his fingers and there sitting in the palm of his hand, was a ring.

“A ring?” Harry scoffed, looking up at Draco with questioning eyes.

“Not just any ring, Potter. It’s a Slytherin Promise Ring.”

Harry made a chocking sound, “A Slytherin promise?” He couldn’t help the laugh that escaped his lips, “What, does this mean we’re going steady?” Harry grinned. He watched Draco’s face turn pink with annoyance, “You are joking right? Slytherins don’t make promises, they break them!”

“Well, Potter,” Draco snapped, “as flattering as I find your attraction to me, I’m already taken, but thank you for offering…and if you’re being technical, then I suppose that you’re wrong again. For a Slytherin to break a promise, he’d first have to make one, correct?” Harry’s face darkened. He hated being shown up by Malfoy. “Nevertheless,” Draco continued, “we do make promises and this is our signet ring.” he offered it to Harry, “Take it.”

Harry had to take the ring willingly for the ritual to begin.

Harry looked dubious. “What does it do?” he said carefully.

Draco was getting very impatient. Time was being wasted and he needed to ensure Harry’s safety before he left and guarantee that Harry would watch out for Laurel.

The plan would work perfectly. He’d keep Harry occupied and out of harms way by watching over Laurel and keep Laurel safe in the off chance that something happened while he was away, as Potter would be here to protect her. And should the situation become dire, Draco would be there in a flash.

It was fool proof…

Draco closed his eyes for a moment and didn’t speak until his voice was calm and even. “It has very old magic in it. If either of us is ever in mortal peril, it will let the other know. I want you to take it; I’m offering it freely to you, Potter.”

Harry had NO idea what kind of significance this offering was from Draco. This ring was only accessible to the elite and eldest families in the Slytherin house. It was a rare gift and it was a true sign of Draco’s loyalty to Harry…and of course he was totally unaware.

“This signifies the protection of the Slytherin. You may not think us honorable, but we DO actually have a code of ethics and we look out for our own…Take it, Harry.” Draco implored, holding his hand out closer to Harry’s, “Please.”

Draco tried to keep his breathing calm as Harry searched his face for any sign of deceit. Even though he knew it was silly, he was worried Harry would see how his pulse was pounding at the base of his throat, how his hands were trembling ever so slightly. He prayed Harry wouldn’t notice how his jaw was clenched tightly, forcing his face to remain calm and impassive looking.

‘This is it, Draco; last chance to back out...’ his mind chimed, playing against his already shaky decision to bond with Harry. ‘NO.’ he told himself, ‘This is his chance to be protected.’ For Draco knew that if Harry were ever at risk of being killed, in true danger of dying he would be taken to his side instantly. Yes, this was Harry’s best option to have help at a moment’s notice, when he would need it the most.

Draco never broke Harry’s gaze, his eyes were a clear, sparkling grey…He’d made up his mind, this was as much for him as it was for Potter. Potter HAD to succeed, in his success Draco would have a chance to live…A chance to have a life free for him to make choices on his own, for people to see him as he truly was without his mask, without his walls.

Yes, Potter had to succeed and Draco was going to help him at any cost.

Harry saw the sincerity and gravity in Draco’s eyes and said quietly, “Alright, Malfoy.”

Harry thought he saw relief and a shot of fear flash across Draco’s face as Harry took the ring. “It has to be worn on your right hand, Potter, on your ring finger, like mine.” He held up his own ring for Harry to see. “Well, don’t just stand there looking at me, put it on.” Draco snapped, his voice slightly shaky.

“You have one too?”

“Of course I do, Potter. How else am I going to know if you’re in trouble? My ring will tell me, just like yours will tell you if I am.” Draco was thinking Harry would never get this…

Harry looked skeptical again as he held the ring up for closer inspection.

It was beautiful. Forged in thick, heavy platinum with a wide smooth band, its face was broad, flat and square with a snake coiled in the center, looking ready to strike. The snake’s eyes were two flashing emeralds and the body was covered in glittering black onyx stones, it stood out like one large, dazzling, sparkling jewel against the platinum background.

The ring was handsome, definitely, and although Harry was silent he was actually very impressed.

Harry’s eyes caught something flash in the light and looked closer to see the words, ‘UNUM PROMITTERE FACERE – IUS SALUS SEMPER’ inscribed around the inside of the ring; the words were faintly glowing with a silvery haze. Harry looked up, “It’s got an inscription.” Draco nodded. “Do you know what it means?” he asked.

He locked eyes with Draco and thought he had never seen such a grave look before. Even when they were in the heat of battle, fighting for their lives he had not seen such severity etched into his face.

Draco‘s gaze drifted from Harry and rested on the ring. His eyes seemed to caress it - almost. It looked to Harry to be an expression somewhere between gratitude and hate. He was curiously drawn in, leaning unconsciously closer to hear Draco’s words.

Draco’s voice was deep and solemn, and when he spoke it sent a tingle down Harry’s spine. “Unum promittere facere, ius salus semper,” Draco paused, his eyes never leaving the ring, “It’s Latin.” he murmured. “It means, Harry,” here his gaze tore away from the ring and locked again with Harry’s, “A promise made once – An oath of protection always.”

At those words Harry felt his entire body buzz with what, he couldn’t quite put his finger on; but if felt like a mix of excitement, anticipation, trepidation, longing…He blinked and took an involuntary step back.

Draco smirked, “Powerful words, eh?”

Harry nodded. “Are you sure you want to give this to me?”

Draco smiled, “Like I said, Potter, together we can beat him, beat them both. This will ensure that whenever one of us is in the greatest need, then the other will be there. I’m sure.” Harry however wasn’t sure who Draco was talking about as his biggest foe, Lucius or Voldemort…He didn’t get the chance to ask as Draco snapped again, “Put it on, Potter! Now! I’ve only got a small window of time left.”

Harry sighed and after one last nervous moment of hesitation, slid the ring on his finger.

Instantly he felt a warmth surge from the ring into his finger and it began pulsing out slowly over his entire body. He held his hand up in front of him and watched riveted, as the ring began to glow faintly and the surface started to shimmer, like liquid.

Harry blinked and watched amazed as the eyes of the serpent became clear and animated, focusing on Harry’s eyes, the head rising up from the face of the ring, its forked tongue darting out, tasting the air around it.

Harry refused to let his fear or anxiety show. His pulse was racing and his chest was moving up and down rapidly, but his face remained cool and impassive. He was focusing all his energy on not letting his hand quiver from fear.

Draco was impressed, he’d thought Harry would have screeched and protested by now.

Slowly, surly the snake raised itself from the ring and sent its tongue out again and again, tasting Harry’s skin and sensing his uncertainty, hissed in displeasure.

Draco noted the intense concentration in Harry’s eyes and spoke softly, as if in a trance, “Don’t be afraid of it Harry, you’re the master, it’s your servant. Take command!”

Harry refused to break eye contact with the tiny snake now sitting coiled atop the face of the ring; its shiny, black body glittering and winking from its subtle movements, its eyes fiery and defiant. “Can it understand me?” he croaked.

“Yes.”

Harry couldn’t help the slight tremble in his voice, “Don’t look at me like that.” he ordered. The snake hissed again, almost as if it was pouting, sending out another cursory flick of its tongue over Harry’s skin, causing goose bumps to form. “Get on with it then!” he said, his words coming stronger, although he didn’t know why those particular words had tumbled out of his mouth…

“Good, good.” Draco breathed knowingly, it was starting; the ring had accepted Harry.

The snake uncoiled at once and slithered much to Harry’s surprise, around his finger, slowly encircling itself around the ring and his finger. As soon as it had completely encircled them both, its head and tail joined together and a white hot, searing pain shot through Harry’s finger. He gasped, but otherwise showed no evidence of the pain.

“Impressive, Potter.” Draco murmured, still in his trance like voice, “I know that hurt like hell.”

Harry only grunted in response, never taking his eyes off the snake as it was now working its way to the palm of his hand. Harry obligingly turned his hand palm side up watching as the snake slithered and writhed around, exploring its surroundings, flicking and tasting its master, until settling on a spot near the center of Harry’s palm.

Both boys watched spellbound as it coiled, reared its head and struck with quick precision, sinking its fangs into the tender flesh of Harry’s palm.

Harry gasped again as a single welt of crimson blood surged to the surface, breaking through the torn skin and he shuddered as the serpent’s tongue darted out, lapping at the blood languidly. Harry was breathing harder again, his face flushed, he was trembling from the emotions rushing around his head and seeping through his body, he couldn’t tear his gaze away. He watched as the snake had its fill of him, coiled up and hissed out what he would later recall only being able to identify as a mating call, calling out to its partner.

His gaze was drawn to Draco who was looking intently at his ring, the snake from Draco’s ring had already wrapped itself around Draco’s finger and Harry saw him flinch slightly, his face growing a shade paler as the snake followed its twin’s path to his master’s palm. Draco turned palm up and his snake went without hesitation to a spot there, coiled and struck, swift and fast, greedily feasting on his master’s blood.

Draco’s lips parted and his eyes fluttered closed. Harry watched, his pulse racing, as Draco took a deep breath, his eyes opening slowly and after a few moments he finally managed in a weak voice, “Enough.”

The snake’s bejeweled eyes gleamed challengingly at him as it withdrew its fangs then turned and focused on its journey. Draco moved his hand next to Harry’s, the sides of their hands brushing intimately against each other as the serpents slithered to greet their twin.

The boys watched, both breathing hard now as their snakes coiled together, flicking their tongues out to taste one another in an altogether intimate joining. Just as quickly as they had joined, they were apart, moving with swift, fluid motion to the other hand and onto the ring finger of their mate’s master. Deftly they wove simultaneously around each finger and ring and once again the searing pain shot through the boys.

The snakes took no pause now as they ventured to the palm of each boy. Moving to the exact spot where their mate had tasted their master just moments before.

The serpents shared a glance, hissing their joint pleasure and acquiescence and struck again, as one, drinking each other’s, master’s blood greedily, feasting on the power coursing through the wizards they were bonding with.

The boys watched as each snake retracted its fangs, their tongues flicking almost lovingly over the wounds before moving away.

They crossed to their owner’s palm and turned to twine with each other again, tongues feasting on one another; their bodies coiled and writhed tightly together in an adoring embrace.

It was singularly the most intoxicating and passionate thing Harry had ever seen and it set his blood coursing through his veins at an alarming rate.

Slowly the serpents unwrapped themselves from one another, seemingly reluctant to part, their tongues flicking and darting to each other as they turned and slithered one final time to coil around their master’s finger.

This time Harry steeled himself, expecting the hot pain as before, but instead he was hit with a surge of power square on his chest. It took his breath away as it coursed through him in great waves, filling him with determination, strength, passion, cleverness, loyalty, cunning…So many feelings that he didn’t know how to identify, feelings that he was sure were not his own.

His eyes slid closed and his head dropped back as he welcomed the power so strong in his blood, racing thorough his body as if eager to consume it. The process set him shaking and left him breathless, panting and wanting MORE. He didn’t know what had happened, but he liked it, very much.

Harry moaned low and deep, despite his best efforts not to, his brow and upper lip were moist with perspiration as he finally opened his eyes and locked with Draco’s.

He was taken aback at the look on Draco’s face.

Draco’s cheeks were flushed, his eyes heavy lidded and very blue. Harry could not remember ever having seen Draco’s eyes looking so blue…He was breathing just as hard as Harry and suddenly he was aware of how close they were standing together, their eyes burning into one another, their lips parted, breath hot on each other’s faces.

Slowly Draco backed away, his eyes never leaving Harry’s face; they flicked back and forth between Harry’s eyes and lips. Draco seemed wary, spent and something else Harry didn’t want to identify, but it left him tense and uneasy. Draco gulped looking decidedly uncomfortable and ran a shaky hand through his hair as he tried desperately to calm his heavy breaths, clenching and unclenching his jaw muscles.

Harry felt the wonderful sensations beginning to fade with each step Draco took away from him, and he didn’t want them to. He liked very much the rush of the primal, strong magic coursing through him, the sheer brutality of the emotions invading his body and filling him to his core. He took an involuntary step toward Draco and was shocked when Draco croaked, “Don’t!” putting his hand to Harry’s chest to stop him.

Harry froze, blinked several times and stumbled back a bit from Draco, clutching at the spot where Draco’s hand had been, as if it had burned him.

Panting harder and trembling from what, he didn’t know, Harry glared at Draco. Finally managing to find his voice Harry barked out, “What the FUCK was that, Malfoy?! What the hell did you do to me?!”

“We’re bonded…we’re blood now.” was all Draco could manage to say at that moment. Seeing the searing glare from Harry he steeled his back, “Calm down, Potter.” Draco grunted. “It’s…it’s normal to feel like that. Blaise and I felt the same way when we bonded.”

Harry took another step back, ‘You…you bonded with Zabini?” he asked shocked. He was suddenly angry and sick to his stomach as jealousy sweep over him. Harry gulped and a zing of horror shot thorough him as he realized he was actually jealous at the thought of the intimacy Draco and he had just experienced, had also been shared by Draco with someone else - and it scared the SHIT out of him.

“Yes.” was the only reply Harry received.

Draco chose not to elaborate on this subject any further. He would NEVER speak of what had happened between Blaise and him when they bonded. It set his face burning red with the memory. They had both been unprepared for the intensity and intimacy of the ritual…

But Draco WAS ready this time, he was just surprised at how strong Potter’s spirit and magic were. It had overwhelmed him. ‘No fucking wonder Voldemort wants him dead and gone, he’s damn powerful.’

“When?” came Harry’s voice, harsh and demanding, shaking Draco from his thoughts.

“It doesn’t matter.” Draco snapped.

“The same thing happened between you two? The same…feelings?” Harry pressed.

“Yes.”

“What, what were they?”

“You felt…well, you felt me, Potter. My power, my magic, it happens when you bond. It was our spirits connecting, our magic, our very blood joining. Everything you felt, I did too.” Draco said and still seeing the heated look in Harry’s eyes he backed up again. “Look, I’m touched you – enjoyed - bonding with me…But if you try so much as to lay one finger on me, I’ll break your neck.” he hissed. “I’ve got to go find Laurel and get the hell out of here for a while.”

Harry’s cheeks burned brighter at the mention of Laurel’s name. Draco caught that and his pulse quickened. “Harry?” he said softly, he didn’t want to deal with this now, but at seeing Harry’s expression, he knew he had to put him in his place once and for all where Laurel was concerned. Especially after what he’d seen when they bonded…

Harry’s eyes were fixed on a point across the room, he refused to meet Draco’s gaze, “What?”

“You know what this means between us, don’t you?” Harry’s eyes snapped to Draco’s now, intense, burning eyes. “It means that I would die for you. If I have to lay my life down to keep you alive under any circumstance, I will. Hell, I’ve already done that. I’ll never break my promise to you, Harry. You have my loyalty…always.” Draco waited to make sure the words sunk home with Harry. “Do I have yours?”

It was a loaded question and Harry knew it.

This was so much more than about fighting Voldemort, more than his standing up for Harry and renouncing his father. This question was the very essence of what was sacred and loyal between friends. ‘Friends’, was that what they were now? Harry wasn’t sure, he could almost bet not. But he knew they’d passed a line far beyond anything he’d ever experienced before and there was no turning back now.

Draco was questioning him about his loyalty where love and desire were concerned... the love and desire for a woman.

Harry’s face was taut and his jaw was clenched tightly; his eyes never wavered from Draco’s as he considered what he had just said. ‘He’s given me his loyalty. He’d put his life down for me…’ The words rang in his head, like the chorus of a song, over and over. Harry gulped nervously.

Yes, he realized what Draco was sacrificing for him. But his sacrifice wasn’t without personal gain. Harry was pretty damn sure that if he didn’t ABSOLUTELY need to be here, Draco wouldn’t be anywhere near Harry. Yet, here he was.

Harry made up his mind. “You have my loyalty, Draco.” He’d spoken the words with such finality that it made Draco blink, he was clearly surprised, but he nodded his head once in understanding.

“Good.” his voice was low and warning. “Keep an eye on her, Potter; keep her safe.” Draco turned and strode toward the door, then paused and turned back. “I saw, you know.” he said, his eyes turning very dark, the knowing look in them scaring Harry. “I saw what you did, I know how you feel…Don’t look at her like that again. Don’t TOUCH her again. If I find out, and I will find out, you’ll regret it.” Draco was deathly calm and very dangerous looking, he made Harry’s skin crawl. “You’ve been warned Harry. Don’t cross me again where she’s concerned. This one time only I’ll let it pass, but know this Harry - Just as willingly as I’d die for you, I’d kill for her.”

With that Draco turned and made to leave.

“Wait!” Harry croaked, as ice ran through his body at Draco’s words.

“What?” Draco turned slowly back to face Harry.

“How, how…you saw, what? What did you see?” Harry asked, almost hoping Draco had seen into his memory, seen how Laurel felt in his arms…how she responded to him. He wanted to wipe the smug look from Malfoy’s eyes. To let him know that Laurel had responded to him too, that HE had touched her first, that even though he’d sworn away from her, if she wanted him, if she gave him even the smallest inkling that she was interested, all bets were off.

Draco saw the jealous glint in Harry’s expression and closed his eyes, “It happens sometimes,” he spoke in a hushed voice, “seeing into your blood brother’s thoughts, into their minds...”

“You…you saw into my mind, into my memories?” Under normal circumstances Harry would have been appalled and may have even felt violated. But just now he was glad, vindicated even, in seeing that Draco knew Laurel was attracted to him as well. “You saw Laurel and me…you know then?” Harry asked, unable to keep the malicious gleam from his eyes as they burned into Draco’s.

Draco was shaking with rage at the look in Harry’s eyes, but he kept his face impassive. “We’ll deal with this later, if that’s what you really want, Potter. The bottom line is, she doesn’t want you – and you know it. She wants me. And, she’s GOT me.” Draco stood stock still, his chest heaving slightly, his knuckles white on the door handle from anger.

Harry’s head started to spin and his ring finger was beginning to throb dully. He wasn’t used to being talked down to by Malfoy and just taking it. He was using every bit of his will power not to hex him or better yet beat him to a pulp with his bare hands. But right now there were bigger things at stake than his crush. Draco’s life was in very real danger and he needed to know how to get to him if he was in trouble. ‘Yes,’ he thought, ‘We’ll deal with our girl problems later…’

Harry flushed as he attempted to keep from throttling Malfoy, “How are you going to get out of here?” he barked out, ignoring Draco’s last comment and thinking the further he was away from Malfoy at the moment, the better. He needed to digest what had just happened….All of it. “And what happens if you need me, how will I know?”

Draco’s voice was flat, “Trust me Potter, if I need you, that ring will let you know. And, I’m going to walk right out the front door.”

“What? How will it let me know? How will I get to you if you need me? Don’t’ shake your head at me, Malfoy, answer me DAMN IT! And how do you propose to just walk out of here?”

Draco sighed, “This is a government facility. There are muggles all over the place, I’m just going to wander around and leave through one of their entrances. Simplicity is always the best solution to a complicated problem, Potter. Don’t worry about me. Just be sure to back up my story that I’m going up to rest for a while and I’ll be back before you know it.”

“You’re leaving right now?” Draco’s lips pursed in mounting frustration and anger, Harry was pushing his patience. Suddenly the ring on Harry’s finger began to burn. “Ouch!” Harry gasped, looking down at the ring with a knitted brow. “What the HELL?”

Draco smirked. “I forgot to mention, sometimes, Harry, when your blood brother,” Draco emphasized the words slowly and clearly, “feels emotions strongly enough, usually anger, you’ll feel it too.”


“Just fucking great.” Harry snapped, trying to take the ring off. After tugging at it for a moment and it not budging, Harry looked dismayed at Draco. “Why won’t it come off, Malfoy? ” Harry asked edgily.

Draco grinned, “Oh, don’t worry, Potter.” he drawled, “It will come off eventually.”

“When?” Harry asked, still trying unsuccessfully to yank the ring off.

“When you’re released.”

“When is that?” Harry snapped.

“A lot sooner than I’d like if you keep me here much longer, damn it!” He had no intention of telling Potter that they were bonded for life, only to be released upon their blood brother’s death. ‘Now THAT’S going to be a fun conversation,’ Draco thought dully, ‘but not now.’

Draco turned and yanked the door open, his mind set on finding Laurel; he turned back to smirk at Harry and flounced out of the door and smacked straight into a soft, warm body.

----- -----

Draco’s arms immediately snaked around a curvy waist protectively to keep them both upright and grinned down into a startled Laurel’s face. “I was just coming to find you.” he said softly.

“Me too.” she beamed up at him, her heart fluttering. “I was worried when you left and didn’t come back.”

Harry exited the library in a rush, intending on catching up with Draco and smacked right into him. “Malfoy, SHIT!” he growled, shoving Draco away from him and ranting on, “That answers not bloody well good enough! Why won’t this come….” his words halted abruptly as he set eyes on Laurel. “Oh, hey…”

“What’s going on?” she asked, looking between the two boys nervously. She hoped that Harry had not told Draco about the two of them kissing. She grimaced, if he did, then she’d deal with it, although she wanted to be the one to tell Draco. “Were you fighting?” Laurel looked hard first at Draco then Harry.

“No.” they both answered.

“Everything is all right, Laurel.” Draco reassured her.

“Yeah, it is.” Harry agreed his eyes narrowing as he glared at Draco.

Laurel didn’t look convinced. “You look a little shaky, Harry. How’s your head? Does it still hurt?”

“I’m fine.” He said, his voice monotone. Seeing Draco’s death glare he quickly changed subjects, “How’s your mum? What were you and Dumbledore talking about back there? They have any ideas where Harvey may have gone?”

Laurel’s smile was a little strained, but her voice was pleasant. “Well, my mom is fine. We were talking with the Aurors and I found out they had been suspicious of Jerrold Harvey for quite a while now, though they could never prove anything until today.” She smiled warmly at Draco and put her arms around his waist giving him a gentle hug and a wink, “Thanks to you.” Laurel said softly, her eyes darkening as she looked at him closely. “Don’t worry, Dumbledore has already suggested to the Wizengamot a full dismissal of the investigation into any criminal charges that the Ministry had trumped up. He knows damn well you did magic to save your lives. We all did. And,” she paused, grinning and dropping her voice conspiratorially low, “he’s hoping to get a title of Merlin 3rd Class bestowed on all three of you for bravery and courage in staying to save all the innocent people at the club.”

Harry’s mouth dropped open, he couldn’t believe that! “Really?” he asked, completely amazed.

“What about you?” asked Draco, suddenly very upset that they would forget to include Laurel. “If it weren’t for you, we wouldn’t even be here right now! I’m going to talk to Dumbledore about this.”

“NO!” Laurel snapped, grasping hold of Draco’s arm very tightly. “No, no.” she said less vehemently, blushing slightly at her strong reaction. “I don’t want or need the attention. I don’t like the spotlight and I won’t accept an honor for something I didn’t do.” Laurel still didn’t know what had happened to Don and until she was sure he wasn’t around to be a threat, the less attention she had the better.

Not to mention, it had taken a great deal of pull on her mother’s part to keep Laurel’s name out of the Prophet. They weren’t hiding, as that just wasn’t possible, being the positions both John and Maggie held within their respective governments. But they weren’t flashing their whereabouts around either. The less attention they had the better, especially around Laurel.

Draco’s eyebrow shot up in surprise at her reaction, but decided he’d not push it at the moment. “If that’s what you wish.” he replied.

Laurel looked at him closely, searching his eyes and finally seeing acceptance on his face nodded, “It is.” Turning back to Harry she smiled, her good mood returning, “My mom says we’ll know by tomorrow or the next day about the charges being dropped. With Harvey and that woman being exposed, I think they’ll have more than enough on their hands trying to find them, than to worry about a bunch of kids. Besides, my mom is in the Ministry,” she said smugly, “and she’s got SOME pull. It helps to have friends in high places. I expect this will all go away very soon.”

Harry and Draco both let out a collective sigh of relief. Both for very different reasons; Harry was glad not to have the threat of expulsion once again looming over his head. This meant he could focus on the bigger task close at hand - Voldemort. Draco was relieved not to have to deal with the added red tape of clearing his name before claiming control of the Malfoy fortune. Maybe things were going his way after all.

‘Time to go’…Draco thought, giving Harry a raised eyebrow and inclining his head toward Laurel for a moment.

Harry sighed, ‘Well, here goes nothing.’

“Erm, Malfoy you don’t look so well. As a matter of fact you look paler than usual. Maybe you should go lay down for a while.” Harry fought very hard not to roll his eyes, “After all the ah, ‘fun’ from earlier, I think it’s worn you out.”

Draco’s eyes flashed in annoyance for a moment before he nodded, “Yes, I do feel a bit tired…”

Laurel turned to him instantly. “I thought you did.” she said, peering more intently into Draco’s face. “And you do look pale.” she added, lightly stroking his cheek and then grazing her palm across his forehead.

“I do?” Draco asked, somewhat vexed at the thought. He was quite pleased with his restraint at not rolling his eyes as Laurel fussed over him. “Well, I think I will take your suggestion, Potter and rest for a bit. But, could I speak to you for a moment privately, Laurel?” Draco asked, not bothering to wait for her answer, as he removed her hand from his cheek and took it gently into his own. He swiftly guided her back to the library, closing the door on Harry saying, “We’ll be along in a moment, Potter…No need to wait.”

Harry frowned angrily as the door shut in his face. He still had questions that needed to be answered about his ring, and he WOULD get his answers, as soon as Malfoy returned. “Wanker!” Harry spat out as he abruptly turned on his heel to head up to his room. He was so very tired all of a sudden and decided to go take a nap himself. He hoped, somewhat foolishly, that when he awoke from his nap this whole mess might be over.

As he hit the stairs Harry paused, wondering if he shouldn’t just follow Malfoy anyway, perhaps unseen? He had a feeling Malfoy’s cocky attitude could get him into MUCH more trouble than he anticipated. Harry sighed and glanced back at the shut library doors, he’d have to ponder that idea. If he was going to act, it had to be now.

He turned back to head upstairs and his eyes caught on the ring and he held his hand up to his face, “You’ll let me know if Malfoy is in trouble, yes?” he asked, looking down at the snake, not really expecting a response. He jumped when its emerald eyes flared to life, glaring up at him haughtily and with a flick of its tongue looked away from Harry as if annoyed. Its eyes again glazing over lifeless…Clearly, that answer was OBVIOUS.

Harry shook his head muttering, as he continued up the stairs, “Damn Slytherins, even their blasted rings are arrogant!”

----- -----

As soon as Draco closed the door to the library he backed Laurel into it, resting his hands on either side of her, basking in her nearness and cherishing this quiet moment between them.

“This is the first time we’ve been alone together.” he purred, leaning close to Laurel’s ear, letting his lips drift close to her neck. She shivered and he grinned.

“That’s not exactly true,” she said, her voice a little shaky, her body positively humming at Draco’s close proximity.

“Really? How do you mean?” He remembered VERY well her being in his room the night before. Her eyes ravaging him, it set the blood rushing to his thighs at the very thought.

“I, well I was in your room last night checking on you.” she said, blushing. “And again, this morning before I came down.”

“You were? This morning?” he asked innocently not knowing she’d been in there earlier, “And last night, well then, this is the first time I’ve been awake to enjoy your company.” He finished smoothly.

“Mmmm, yes, Draco.” Laurel mumbled, not recognizing her voice. It was deep and husky…She didn’t even know her voice could sound like that. Clearly it had an effect on Draco as his eyes turned very blue when she said his name.

Laurel reached up and caressed his face, letting her hand cradle it gently, “I love how blue your eyes get when you’re looking at me.” she sighed. “Did you know they turn so very blue?” He arched an eyebrow at her. Yes, he knew when his eyes turned blue…when he was turned on - which was right NOW.

“And I love the sound of my name coming from your lips.” he groaned. Lord, how he didn’t want to leave her. Not even for one minute. Draco reached out a hand to caress Laurel’s cheek and jaw, letting a finger drift down her neck to her collarbone before he dipped his head down again to her neck. “Say it again.” he murmured kissing the tender edge of her ear and letting his tongue slide around it slowly.

Laurel shuddered and sucked in her breath. She sighed his name, “Draco.” Her eyes sliding closed as she tilted her head back, giving him clear access to her as his lips brushed from her ear down the side of her neck. She gasped softly at his touch, reaching her hands up to rest on his chest, she was trembling.

‘GOD what he does to me.’ she thought not wanting to lose this feeling, not for anything in the world.

He pulled back slightly, letting his hips rub against hers gently as he looked down into Laurel’s face. “I never got to say thank you properly for saving my life.” he said, his voice just as husky and low now as hers.

She blushed, her face hot under his intense gaze, “You don’t have to thank me,” she said grinning, “I did it for very selfish reasons.”

“Really? They would be?” he drawled, picking up a curl in his fingers and twining it around slowly, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Laurel gulped, “I, I couldn’t go letting my Dragon get away from me before I find out all his secrets and desires and dreams, now could I? Not, not when I just found you.” She couldn’t believe she’d said that, but it was true. Her eyes got wide at the boldness of her statement and she chanced a glance into Draco’s eyes.

He was looking at her so intently it made her blush deepen, but she couldn’t look away. She couldn’t even breathe she was so lost in his eyes, in his soul.

“I am, you know.” he said finally.

“You are what?” she said, taking a shaky breath of air.

“Yours.”

Laurel blinked and sucked in her breath; she couldn’t say anything, she was so taken aback. Finally she smiled at him and he flashed his very best lopsided grin, guaranteed to melt hearts and weaken knees.

He waited to see the desired effect take place and on cue her knees buckled slightly and her hips pressed firmly against his.

Draco caught her easily against him, leaving his hands on her hips and pushing her back against the door. She sighed shifting her hips to fit against his better and he groaned feeling himself grow hard from the pressure.

“Lord, what you do to me.” he moaned.

“Yeah, I know the feeling.” Laurel whispered, as she caught her breath again, feeling him grow hard against her thigh. Then gathering her courage she took his face in her hands and raised her face to his and with serious, sincere eyes said, “And I yours.”

He knew she was not lying.

Potter wasn’t an issue and Draco wouldn’t let him get between them. He was sure he could be the bigger man…If he so chose.

Relief flooded through him and Draco groaned, he could wait no more. He wanted to claim her as his, sear him into her heart, her soul, her body, every part of her…forever.

Their eyes locked and slowly, possessively his hands gripped her hips and he fit her to him perfectly. He watched her face intently as Laurel’s eyes fluttered closed as a rush of desire ran through her. She moaned softly and grasped his arms, holding herself tight against him.

Draco’s hands slid from her hips up her sides, molding her to him as he closed the gap between their bodies completely.

Finally he lowered his head to her, his fingers catching the bottom of her chin, lifting her face to meet his as his lips brushed gently over hers. Laurel moaned again, impatient for his kiss now and Draco grinned feeling her need for him.

He chuckled softly muttering “Patience, Love,” as he teased her, brushing his lips just a breath away from hers and turning his head as her lips parted for him, ready as he came a hair closer still. Laurel groaned, he was driving her mad with need and he hadn’t even kissed her yet.

With impatience and desire ablaze inside her, Laurel decided to take charge and running her fingers into his hair she grasped it, tugged and pulled him to her.

This only served to excite Draco more – he absolutely loved assertive women.

Draco moaned as their lips met. He was using all his will power to hold back because he wanted to be gentle with her and take his time, showing her how he truly felt.

He went purposely slow tasting her, tilting her face to his and letting his fingers run deep into her hair, grasping her close and leisurely sliding his tongue out around the edge of her lips, flicking, pulling and nipping them until their tongues met between their open mouths, lapping and sucking at each other gently, gradually building on the passion that was steadily rising between them.

Draco growled low in his throat as he began thrusting slowly against Laurel’s hips. She matched him bucking and grinding unabashedly to his rhythm as her hands traveled up and down his broad back.

Their kisses grew wild and Draco found his control slipping. He was openly groaning with need as Laurel rubbed the palm of her hands back and forth across Draco’s sensitive nipples and it was driving him beyond crazy.

He knew he had to back away now or he wouldn’t stop, but was unable to control his hands as they crept down from Laurel’s face, down her shoulders and lower still to brush gently over her breasts.

At the surprised gasp from her and immediate moan of approval, he moved his mouth over hers claiming it, thrusting his tongue in and out with more urgency in a seductive dance, flicking, sucking and swirling his tongue around Laurel’s until she pulled back, both of them panting from desire and gasping for breath.

They stood there looking at one another for a moment, both wanting more – so much more and both surprised at the strength of the yearning driving them to abandon restraint and give in to their desire.

Laurel took a step closer and Draco backed up. His eyes were radiating his desire, she could feel it washing over her spirit, lapping at the edge of her reason, teasing her and coaxing her to give into him completely.

“Draco,” she said breathlessly moving closer to him again but Draco put his arms out and grasped her shoulders to try to keep himself away.

He looked into her face flushed with desire; his eyes traveling lower were riveted to the taut nipples awakened by passion and easily visible through Laurel’s thin T-Shirt. He wanted to feast on them so desperately he was aching. The thought of his lips and tongue suckling and stroking each pert peak and his teeth pulling and tugging on them till she cried out, begging for him to take her was more than he could stand at the moment.

Draco groaned painfully. This was going to be hard. Carefully he pulled back from Laurel, fighting to calm his raging erection and slow his breath as he croaked out, “Laurel…I, I need to go rest for just a while. I need a couple of hours and then we can be together…Okay?”

Laurel blinked at him, her senses rapidly calming, “Oh, GOD, Draco, I…I’m so sorry…I just…” She ducked her head down, not even knowing what to say, she was utterly mortified at her wanton actions.

“No, Love. Don’t be sorry, I just have to go,” Laurel’s head jerked up, her eyes became alert and suspicious instantly. Draco groaned inwardly, ‘SHIT, Draco!’ “You know…go lay down for a while…” He was nervous, it sounded lame to him and he was sure she wasn’t going to buy it.

“I can come up with you and keep you company while you rest?” She offered hopefully.

Draco grinned, ‘Good, good…just ease out of it, Malfoy…’ “Laurel, if you went up to my room with me right now, the very last thing in the world I would do is get any rest. And as tempting as that offer is, just now I can’t take you up on it.”

Laurel fought back a hot blush and couldn’t help the disappointment from showing on her face; but she tried to smile regardless. “I guess you’re right,” she grinned sheepishly, “I don’t think I would let you do much resting.”

Draco sighed, ‘That’s NOT what I needed to hear…’ “I just need a few hours, Love. Can you give me that? Then, I promise, I’m all yours.”

“You’re already all mine, yes?” she joked.

“Completely. Now let me get some rest and I’ll show you what I can do when I’m feeling a hundred percent.” Draco smirked and winked at her.

“Oh mercy, it gets better than that?”

Draco chuckled and shook his head, “Love, you have no idea….But you will.” Laurel shivered in anticipation at his words and he swooped down to kiss her, careful not to let himself get caught up in her again.

He pulled away and she smiled, “Well, come on then, let me walk you to your room.”

“No,” Draco grasped her hands in his and brought her fingers to his lips and kissed them gently, “why don’t you stay down here in the library for a while. If I know you’re so close by I may be tempted to forget all about resting and keep us otherwise occupied, so maybe you could just give me a little time by myself?”

Laurel’s eyes narrowed, but she decided not to argue. “Sure. I’ll come up and check on you in a couple of hours.”

“Don’t bother.” Draco purred, planting another kiss on Laurel’s cheek, “I’ll come to you.” His face sobered for just a moment as he caressed her cheek before he grinned a little wistfully and winked and with that he was out of the room, closing the door behind him.

----- -----

Laurel stood there looking at the door and wondering what the hell just happened…something doesn’t feel right.

Knitting her brow, she turned and decided to pick up a book to read. She’d give him a half hour then she was going to check on him, like it or not.

As Laurel thumbed through a few titles she couldn’t get past Draco’s hasty exit and mumbled aloud, “I think Draco’s up to something…”

“That’s because he is.” came a voice from behind her.

Laurel jumped and gasped, spinning around, thrusting her hand out in front of her defensively.

“You!” she said surprised, lowering her arm slowly.

“Yup, me.”

“When did you get here?” Laurel asked, “I didn’t hear you come in.”

“I’ve been around, and you weren’t really paying attention anyway…I’d say your mind was on SOMETHING else.” came the slightly mocking reply.

Laurel’s eyes narrowed and her lips thinned, she chose to ignore that last retort. “So, what about Draco?” she asked a touch anxiously, “You know he’s got something up his sleeve? Please tell me it’s just me and I’m worrying over nothing.” Laurel groaned. She didn’t want to hear the answer, but she already had an idea.

“Sorry, can’t do that.”

Laurel felt all the color drain from her face, “What’s he up to?” she asked in a whisper.

“He’s planning on taking a little field trip today.”

“ A…a…a WHAT?” Laurel shrieked, her eyes widening in fear and disbelief. “He’s NOT! You’re not actually telling me he’s going to leave the house are you?”

“Alone.”

“OH MY GOD…” Laurel wailed, sagging against the bookcase and feeling suddenly dizzy. She jumped up abruptly, “Let’s go stop him, he can’t go alone….Argh….Of all the stupid, idiotic things…” she threw her hands up in the air. “I KNEW IT! I knew something was off…GOD, how could I fall for that LAME line…’I’m tired…I need to rest!’ she mocked, in a drippingly sweet voice. "He’s lost his mind!”

“No, he’s quite sane. Stupid, but sane, and he’s already gone. He just wanted to say goodbye to you.”

Laurel’s eyes widened, “He, he told you this and you just LET HIM leave? Are you fucking crazy? He can’t go out there ALONE! He could be KILLED!” She started pacing back and forth, furious with herself for letting him out of her sight.

“No, I didn’t just let him leave! Do you actually think Draco would listen to me? Not a chance. And yes I think he’s a complete ass for believing he can go running around with Death Eaters looking for him and make it back in one piece.”

Laurel was unbelievably infuriated with Draco for pulling such a reckless stunt, “Do you know where he went?” she hissed.

“Yes. And I know he’s going to need our help, whether or not he believes it; stupid, arrogant Slytherin.”

“What the hell is a Slytherin?” Laurel snapped.

“His school house, they’re all arrogant jackasses in that house.”

“Great.” Laurel groaned. “Well what are we waiting for, let’s go.” They headed for the door immediately and Laurel turned and stopped. “You know this could be dangerous.”

“Why the hell do you think I’m bringing you along?”

Laurel grinned, “You up for an adventure then?”

“Always.”

“You care about him, don’t you?” Laurel inquired her eyes turning serious.

“I’ll never admit that to his face, so don’t bother asking again…but, yes. That’s why I’m here. He thinks he can go it alone and I know better.”

Laurel nodded, “So we’re gonna have a go at friendship then?” she asked tentatively.

“I figure it’s worth a shot.”

They stood there grinning at each other for a moment and headed for the door.

“Ready?” Laurel inquired.

“Ready.”

“Let’s go bring Draco home.” Laurel said, and off then went.

_______________________________________

A/N: You like? – Can you guess who Laurel’s play date is? Did you like the Harry/Draco flirtation... Hit the button and let me know!

SPELLS:
The ring bonding is just something I came up with. The ring bonding phrase is listed in the story so no need to reiterate.

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