Leave It To Fate

Leave it to Fate
Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/35072887.
Rating: Explicit
Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply
Category: M/M
Fandom: Harry Potter - Fandom
Relationship: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter
Character: Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Pansy
Parkinson, Albus Severus Potter, Scorpius Malfoy
Additional Tags: Fluff, Humor, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Happy Ending, Enemies to Lovers,
Texting, Social Media, Online Dating, Secret Identity, Coffee Shops,
Alternate Universe - You've Got Mail Fusion, Career Change, Mid-life
Crisis, Divorce, Insecurity, Drinking, Drunk Sex, Falling In Love, Idiots in
Love, Sexting, Daddy Kink, Praise Kink, Hair Kink, Top Harry Potter,
Bottom Draco Malfoy, Rough Sex, Sassy Draco Malfoy, Draco Malfoy
Has Long Hair, Widower Draco Malfoy, Divorced Harry Potter & Ginny
Weasley, H/D Erised 2021, Blow Jobs, First Time, Riding, Anal Sex,
Edging, Shower Sex, Love Confessions, Hung Harry Potter, Epithets,
Barista Harry Potter, Post-Second Wizarding War with Voldemort, Fluff
and Humor, Albus and Scorpius the ultimate wingmen, Frozen (Disney
Movies) References, POV Alternating, Romantic Comedy, Minor Pansy
Parkinson/Ron Weasley
Language: English
Collections: H/D Erised 2021
Stats: Published: 2021-12-09 Words: 45,529 Chapters: 8/8
Leave it to Fate
by greenmegsnoham
Summary
"…I've always done what everyone expected from me, haven't I? I became an Auror,
married Ginny and made my happy little life with sunshine and picket fences and
everything the Saviour deserved."
"You say that like you didn't choose that, Harry," said Hermione stiffly. "You never had to
do any of that."
"Yeah, well. I'm choosing not to now, aren't I?"
Sometimes you need to walk away from a relationship that is no longer enough, leave your
job of twenty years to work in a coffee shop, and meet the right person at the right time on
an anonymous dating app.
But when things go wrong, you just need to leave it to Fate.

Notes
Wow! This was my first HD Erised and I had a blast. I was not expecting to create one of
the fluffiest / funniest works in my entire writing career, but there's a first for everything.
This is definitely full of many firsts for me and it felt so great to get out of my lane and try
something new! And apparently, I'm really funny?? Thanks to C & W for all your
britpicking and beta help!
I genuinely cried at the end of this fic. It's been a glorious journey and I'm so proud of what
I've made. I hope you enjoy it too! Now, excuse me while I sleep for the entire month of
November… o(-(
To make POV (Point of view) shifts easier:

Harry POV = Green Bubbles
Draco POV = Blue Bubbles
**reading on mobile phone or tablet recommended!
**alternatively, feel free to "Hide Creator's Style" for a standard AO3 reading experience!
See the end of the work for more notes

Chapter 1
As the door clicked shut to number twelve, Grimmauld Place, all was silent apart from a slow drip
from a tap in the kitchen. Harry wondered how long it had been like that. Although he never had
the heart to sell the place, Harry hadn't stepped foot into number twelve in over ten years. The
memories of Sirius were an ever-present ache Harry thought he could shake with time. Time
passed, and the ache remained. Standing in the empty entryway, Harry could hear the man's laughs
reverberating against the walls. A distant memory.
The air was musty and stale, with the abandoned house having been closed up for so long. The
place would need some care and cleaning, but Harry had all the time in the world. He let out a
resigned sigh as he grabbed his duffle bag and made his way up the staircase, each step creaking
under his feet just the way he remembered.
After the war, Harry lived at number twelve for almost a year—alone. He'd thought he deserved it
—the pain he carried within its walls. It was as if Harry sought to punish himself for all the lives
lost just so that he could live. He saw them standing in the halls—heard their whispers.
Sirius. Dumbledore. Lupin. Tonks. Mad-Eye. Snape…Fred.
It was Ron and Hermione who stepped in and encouraged Harry to move out—to move on.
"This is not the life Sirius would want for you, Harry," said Hermione. "Not the life we want for
you. The life you deserve."
So Harry moved out. He bought a flat near Diagon Alley, walked into the Ministry, shook
Shacklebolt's patient yet eager hand, accepting what had been waiting for him for over a year.
What everyone expected of Harry—saving the world, one petty crime at a time.
Ginny had been just as beautiful as ever. They grabbed drinks or a bite when she was home from
travelling with the Harpies. Harry would laugh, and it had been ages since he had laughed. He
found his family and second home at the Weasleys', and when Harry and Ginny announced their
engagement and that they were expecting their first child, everyone was thrilled.
Harry and Ginny were married. They had James, then Albus and little Lily. Harry was happy then.
He was happy for a while.
Until he wasn't.
Harry loved his children more than anything. It was everything else that went to shit. He hated
running the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. It was one thing to be out in the field—
doing something. Now it was all meetings and reports, delegating cases to other inept and
undeniably green Aurors while he sat behind a desk.
Then there was Ginny. He wasn't quite sure when things began to change. Harry had been caught
up with longer hours at work, the days passing in a blur. The life they had shared had soon split
into two. Harry couldn't remember the last time they'd spent time together, just the two of them.
With Lily finally off at Hogwarts, Ginny was able to accept the head coach position with the
Harpies, and she was back to travelling for weeks at a time. When she was home, they were just…
tired.
She was still beautiful, but that wasn't what mattered. When they were younger, Harry used to miss
her so much he felt like his heart had been ripped from his chest, travelling the world with the
woman he loved. Every moment together was a gift, a thrill. Now, it felt like a chore, an
inconvenience. If it weren't for the kids, Harry knew they'd have ended things years ago.
Then Ginny met Sasha, and it was the perfect out for them both. Harry had smiled and patted her
shoulder. "Happy for you, Gin."
There had been no affair, at least not in the physical sense, but Ginny's feelings were apparent, as
were Sasha's. So they discussed an open marriage while finalising the details, especially when and
how to tell the children.
Harry and Ginny gave them one last Christmas. The Potters. Looking back, it seemed almost cruel.
The show Harry and Ginny put on. The game they played. It was the Easter holiday when they sat
the children down and told them they were getting a divorce. Lily had cried, while the boys just
seemed uncomfortable, accepting it all the same. They knew their parents weren't happy.
Then Harry shook Shacklebolt's hand and left the Ministry for the last time, resigning as Head of
the DMLE. Kingsley asked him to stay on as an Auror, but Harry'd had enough by then. He was
nearly forty, which was as good a time as ever to make a change. Hopefully, for the better. New
life. New experiences.
So, Harry packed a bag and Apparated to Grimmauld Place. He'd go back for the rest of his things
during Ginny's next trip.
Harry busied himself with cleaning and making minor repairs, often the Muggle way, starting with
the blasted tap. Slowly, the cold, creaky house became almost livable. Each scrub of dust and
grime scoured away the traces of Harry's old life—leaving his path shiny and new. Most of the
furniture had remained, but Harry ripped off the dark, peeling wallpaper in exchange for lighter
hues that made Grimmauld feel less like a prison. Harry ended his days drenched head to toe in
paint or plaster, feeling increasingly lighter every time.
After he deemed the necessary renovations complete, Harry needed to get out of the house. He
wandered the streets of London, popping in and out of Muggle shops, smiling sadly at the sight of
families doing their shopping. A particularly rambunctious little boy was tugging on his parents'
coats, and Harry thought about when Albus was younger. He always wanted to be held. Harry
would scoop the boy up in his arms, and then Ginny would press kisses to his cheeks before
playfully pecking Harry on the mouth.
He let out a sigh.
There was a small coffee shop on a corner, and Harry found he fancied a cup to curb the chilling
spring breeze. He halted, noticing an advert posted in the window.
Harry smiled.
-----
Tuesday, 16th June 2020
"Ever worked in a coffee shop before?"

"Nope."
The manager raised an eyebrow as he inspected Harry's résumé. He had to be in his late twenties,
thin and lanky, with long hair tied loosely in a knot at the crown of his head. It was a bit wild, ashy
blond with wisps of hair framing his face. Harry had never appreciated long hair on a bloke before,
though he'd seen his fair share of top knots and 'man buns' in recent years. Sean's was different, and
Harry found he liked the style of it.
"Law enforcement?" the man asked.
"Retired."
"And your desire to work here is some sort of…?"
"Midlife crisis? Self-discovery? Mental breakdown?"
The man laughed. "No pulling punches there, I see."
Harry shrugged. "Just thought I'd try something new. Something…different."
The man set down the résumé, crossing his arms on the table as he squinted at Harry inquisitively.
Harry shifted nervously in his chair.
The manager let out a sigh and smiled. "Well. We've had the position available for some time now.
Lord knows we could use the help, so close to the university and all that." He leaned back in his
chair, shaking his head in amusement. "You have a lot to learn, Harry."
He nodded. "I'm sure I do."
"You start on Monday."
-----
Thursday, 18th June
"A coffee shop?"
"Yeah."
"But…why?"
"Why not?"
Hermione sighed, propped her elbows on the small café table and rested her chin on her interlaced
fingers.
They'd met for lunch at their usual spot every Thursday, a small Muggle café that served
Hermione's favourite spicy tempeh wrap. It was her go-to when her life was exceedingly stressful,
which for Hermione was all the time. When Harry arrived, he prepared himself for the interview
slash intervention he was about to experience.
Hermione peered at Harry over her reading glasses. "Are you sure you're alright? You know you
can always stay with me until—"
"I'm fine, Hermione. Thanks."
"Harry, you can't be fine!" she huffed in exasperation. "Do you remember what you were like last
time? I do. I don't want to see that Harry again."
Harry took a sip of his water, smiling at the waitress as she placed their food in front of them. "You
won't," he said, picking up his sandwich. "It's not the same. It was my choice to lock my mopey
arse in there. That's not what I'm doing now."
"What are you doing, Harry?"
He shrugged, taking a bite of his sandwich. Hermione scowled.
Harry tilted his head, meeting her scowl. "Don't be like that. I'm just…I've always done what
everyone expected from me, haven't I? I became an Auror, married Ginny and made my happy
little life with sunshine and picket fences and everything the Saviour deserved."
"You say that like you didn't choose that, Harry," said Hermione stiffly. "You never had to do any
of that."
"Yeah, well. I'm choosing not to now, aren't I?"
"And become a barista?"
"Yep."
"Merlin, Harry," she whispered, shaking her head. She finally took a bite of her wrap, the tension
instantly leaving Hermione's shoulders as she let out a soft moan as she chewed.
Harry chuckled into his water glass as he drank. "Sometimes, I think you enjoy that a bit too
much."
Hermione glared at him, sticking out her tongue.
"Such a child," said Harry, flinging a pickle at her from across the table.
"Hey!" she yelled, falling into a fit of laughter as she tossed it back.
The laughter died down, and her smile faltered. "So," she said casually. "How's Ronald? I heard
he'll be coming back to England soon."
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Hermione…"
"What?"
"Do you really want to know?"
Hermione looked out the window. "Not particularly."
"It's been nearly a year. I love you both, but it just wasn't ever going to be easy for you two. You
know that. And that's okay. You're allowed to deserve more than either of you could give." His
own words struck home, holding more meaning than he intended. Harry took hold of Hermione's
hand and squeezed. "Regardless of everything else, you'd have had to give up your job. He'd never
ask you to do that. You revolutionised the Department of Regulation and Control of Magical
Creatures."
"You mean the Department of Research and Support of Magical Creatures."
"Exactly."
"I know that, Harry. I've made my peace with it." Hermione's lip curved into a half-smile. "I'm
seeing someone, actually."
Harry's eyebrows lifted. "Really? Who?"
Her smile broadened as she tossed her hair dramatically over her shoulder and leaned down for
another large bite.
"I have all day, and you only have so much wrap," teased Harry.
Hermione swallowed, coughing as she laughed. She took a drink of water and cleared her throat.
"Viktor."
"What? Krum?"
She nodded. "Yes. We ran into each other at the Werewolf Advocacy Group charity event, and it
just. Well…"
"Huh. He's still single after all this time?"
Hermione dabbed her lips with a napkin. "Divorced. Twice."
"Tah! Well, that sounds promising, doesn't it?"
Hermione gave him a gentle slap on the arm. "Those were superficial. What we have is…well, it's
real. It's always been real."
"I'm glad. And you two have a history. Is it really like riding a bike?"
Hermione's cheeks pinked as she hissed, "Harry!"
"I didn't mean like that!" But he was rolling with laughter, adjacent tables shooting glares at them
as Harry accidentally banged his elbow on the table. "Sorry, it's just. You know what I meant."
"Yes. I do," she said. "And it is."
Hermione lifted her glass, taking a drink in an attempt to hide the flush burning in her cheeks.
Harry wiggled his eyebrows at her, and she rolled her eyes, forcing back a laugh.
"Anyway…" said Hermione, clinking her empty water glass against Harry's. "To finding our new
forever, right?"
"Oh, I don't know about that. Never was the dating sort, you know. If Ginny hadn't…"
His chest tightened thinking about it. Ginny had been everything he should want, and she had just
been waiting there, wanting him. There was no work involved. He essentially checked into a life
prepackaged for him. Harry wouldn't know where to begin.
"It's never too late, Harry. You deserve to share your happiness. If that's what you want. You know
I'm the last person to tell you it takes someone else to make you happy."
"It's different for me. You and Ron never had kids. I've got a full circus. No one's looking for a
forty-year-old man with three kids."
"Perhaps another parent? Or someone who wanted children of their own but never had the chance.
Love isn't only for the young, Harry."
"Hey, we're not that old," said Harry.
"My point exactly."
Hermione waved the waitress over and paid the check. When they stepped out onto the sidewalk
just outside the café, Hermione wrapped her arms around Harry's waist, and Harry returned the
embrace.
"Just focus on you and this new…whatever it is." She pulled back, tapping his cheek. "You'll have
to give me the address. I want a first-hand account of the Chosen One in an apron."
"A sight to behold, I'm sure."
"You coming to pub night tomorrow? It's been ages, and everyone's been asking about you."
"Will Vikky be there?"
Hermione lifted her chin haughtily. "As a matter of fact, yes."
"Show off." Harry bopped her on the nose. "I'll think about it."
"Alright," she said, wiggling her nose as she slipped from his grasp. "See you later then."
She ducked into an alley and Disapparated. Harry took a deep breath as he looked up at the cloudy
sky.
Hermione was right. He could be happy. The sky was the limit, and Harry had always enjoyed
flying.
And perhaps one day, he'd fall.
-----
Friday, 19th June
Even after over twenty years, Dumbledore's Army still gathered at the Hog's Head once a month,
which, with a bit of spiffing up, was now one of the more popular pubs in Hogsmeade. There was a
plaque placed above the hearth, reading:
Hogsmeade Historic Landmark

The Founding of Dumbledore's Army
1995
It still made Harry laugh, especially as many patrons thought it meant Aberforth's Army of Drunk
Dunderheads. And for that, Aberfoth was often bullied by various inebriated individuals to give
'his army' a few rounds on the house.
"Harry! You came!"
Several people turned in their chairs to watch Harry approach the tables occupied by his fellow
Gryffindors and their partners. Neville had waved him over, his arm wrapped around Luna as she
smiled brightly at Harry. He pulled up a chair beside Hermione, extending his hand in greeting to
the man beside her.
"Harry. It's good seeing you," said Krum, shaking Harry's hand.
"You too, Viktor."
Harry smiled at Hermione, and she beamed at Viktor as he kissed her forehead. It made Harry's
heart ache.
"Is it true?" asked Seamus, capturing Harry's attention. "You resigned from the Aurors?"
"What?!" asked Neville, gaping. "No way!"
Harry shrugged as he took a sip of his Butterbeer. "I hated it. Why would I stay?"
Neville looked from Hermione to Luna, then back at Harry. "But that's…what you do, isn't it?"
Hermione shot him a nervous smile. Harry's expression remained blank. "It's what I did."
"So…what are you going to do now?" asked Dean.
"Did the Defence position open up at Hogwarts?" added Seamus, looking at his husband and then
back to Harry.
Harry shook his head. "I work at a local coffee shop. Or at least, starting on Monday."
The entire table went silent.
"I like coffee," said Luna dreamily. "That sounds like fun, Harry. I'm sure you'll really enjoy it."
"Thanks, Luna."
"Er…" murmured Neville, scratching his head, clearly in search of a change of subject. "How
are…the kids?"
"Good. James is bogged down studying for his OWLs. Lily and Al…well. Staying out of trouble
for the time being. Yours?"
"Rowena's beside herself at the thought of going to Hogwarts next year," said Neville.
"Dresses up in my old school robes, waving a wooden spoon." Luna giggled.
Harry laughed. "Sounds like Lily."
"The Harpies are doing great this season. Ginny's really whipped them into shape. Ow!" Seamus
rubbed his arm where Dean had elbowed him. "What was that for?"
"They've split, you muppet," Dean whispered to Seamus. "Do you ever listen to a word I say?"
Seamus' eyes widened. "Fuck, Harry, I—"
"It's okay," said Harry kindly. "We're okay. It was mutual. We just grew apart, I guess. Yeah, the
team's doing great. Glad Gin was able to get back with the team again. I know she missed it."
Hermione tapped Harry on his knee, and he smiled at her.
That seemed to give the group leave to discuss the Harpies' stats, including their chances for the
nation's final.
"What are a bunch of fossils doing out past ten?"
Harry turned at a screech of a chair on his opposite side. "Ron?"
"Ron! It's been ages!" said Seamus.
The red-headed man lifted his glass as he sat down beside Harry. "Cheers, mate."
Hermione shifted in her chair, and Ron leaned forward, catching the woman's eye.
"Er…hi, Hermione," he coughed. Then his mouth fell open. "Krum?"
The man lifted his glass in greeting. "Ronald."
"Wow. You're." He looked between Viktor and Hermione and to the arm resting against the back
of her chair. "So you two…er."
Hermione gave a clipped, "None of your concern," just as Viktor said, "Yes."
"Hermione," hissed Harry out of the corner of his mouth. She ignored him.
"Right," said Ron nervously. "That's good."
"Well, this couldn't get any more awkward," said Seamus.
"Merlin, we're fucking adults," said Dean. "Let's just drink, alright? We've only got a babysitter
until eleven."
Ron seemed to relax as he knocked his shoulder gently against Harry's. "You alright, mate? I'm
sorry it's been so long. Only just got back an hour ago. George told me you'd probably be here."
"Yeah, I'm good. It's great to see you."
And that was an understatement. Harry loved Hermione to death, but it wasn't quite the same as
what he had with Ron. Harry had sent him a letter explaining everything, anticipating a Howler the
following day. However, Ron had adjusted surprisingly well to the idea of Harry and Ginny's
separation, and Harry was thankful for it.
"Great. Well, I'm back for the summer. Think you'll be able to make some time around your mad
schedule this time?"
"I'll have plenty. I quit my job."
"You're taking the piss."
"I'm not."
"Fucking…Harry, you having some sort of mid-life crisis?"
"That's what Hermione said."

The corner of Ron's mouth twitched. "Well…she's always right, isn't she?"
Harry glanced at Hermione, laughing and talking animatedly with Viktor, Dean, and Seamus.
"You're not wrong," said Harry.
"Okay. So what are you going to do now? Surely not…nothing?"
Harry took a drink. Harry hoped telling Ron would mean a bit less explaining as far as the
Weasleys were concerned. "Working in a coffee shop."
"You're barking."
"Maybe I am."
Ron huffed a laugh. "Cheers to that."
Harry smiled as he raised his bottle to clink with Ron's before taking a drink. He appreciated Ron's
ability to accept and move on, knowing just when Harry wanted to talk or when he didn't.
Hermione meant well, but it was hard to deter her from a problem where she could supply a
solution.
"So," said Ron. "You seeing anyone yet?"
"Ron. I've only just moved out. What do you take me for?"
"A man. How long has it been? Ginny's had that tart for, what? Six months now?"
"Don't call her that. She's great for Ginny. I think you'd like her. Cannons fan."
Ron snorted. "Yeah, well. Hasn't passed the brother's seal of approval yet, has she?"
"You'd be the last," Harry chuckled.
Ron scowled. "All I'm saying is, if anyone in the world won't have trouble pulling, it's Harry
Fucking Potter."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Yeah. Harry Potter, maybe. Not Harry. Fuck, it gives me chills just thinking
about it."
Ron leaned towards him, his voice lowered. "I think I know just what you need."
-----
Sunday, 21st June
Harry had never owned a mobile phone. He didn't like the idea of being so accessible, what with
the number of owls and interdepartmental memos he got in a day. Ginny and the kids each had one
and tore the mickey out of their dad for it.
He guessed it was about time. Harry hadn't supplied a mobile number for his application papers,
and the manager, Sean, mentioned the inconvenience as far as scheduling and swapping shifts were
concerned. If Harry was moving forward and getting out of his comfort zone, he figured it was
time to embrace the twenty-first century.
Harry knew it would take some getting used to, but he had a tablet, so he wasn't completely inept as
far as the phone went. He started texting with the kids almost immediately, and Harry couldn't
have been more welcome to the change. He knew he'd be able to see them over the summer, but
not living in the same house meant needing alternative ways to keep in touch.
Ron sat down on the couch beside him, tapping an app on Harry's home screen. It was a new
dating app, exclusively for the wizarding world: Fate. Surprisingly, it appeared to have been their
classmate Justin Finch-Fletchley who developed it. A merging of magic and Muggle technology
could not have been an easy feat, guaranteed to help you find your better half. A very Hufflepuffy
outlook in Harry's opinion.
Harry stared as the application loaded. "This is stupid," he said.
"Fuck, it's not!" said Ron. "I didn't want to say the other night with, you know, certain company.
But I've been talking to this girl for over three months now. Going really great, I think. Though she
lives here in England, so meeting up hasn't been an option yet, but I'm hoping I'll persuade her to
grab a drink while I'm back." Ron wiggled his eyebrows. "If you know what I mean."
"TMI, mate," said Harry. "You really don't know what she looks like?"
"Not a damn clue."
"Completely anonymous?"
"Entirely."
Harry chewed on the inside of his cheek. "Here goes nothing then."
Harry took the phone from Ron. "Fate, is it?"
"It's supposed to be," said Ron. "Has great reviews."
Harry clicked the 'Register' button.
"They recommend some spin on your middle name. I felt weird using Bill, so I went with Louis.
What about you?"
"I guess…Jamie?"
"Nice."
"This is so weird."
"Ugh. Just get on with it," said Ron, waving his hand in encouragement.
FATE
Welcome, Jamie! You're one step closer to your Happily Ever After! First, let's get to know
YOU! Please fill out the following to the best of your ability.
GENDER
[ ] Female
[x] Male
+ Click for more options
AGE
39
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
[ ] Unemployed
[x] Part-Time
[ ] Full-Time
FIVE FAVOURITE PHYSICAL FEATURES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
"You've got a great arse, mate."
"Jesus, Ron."
He raised his hands in surrender. "Facts are facts."
"Go…over there." Harry gestured to the chair across the room. "Actually, go find yourself
something to eat in the kitchen."
"I'm not hungry."
Harry gave Ron a knowing look.
"Fine. You better have some of those Muggle biscuits I like."
"In the pantry."
"Wicked. Let me know when you're done, yeah? I wanna read your matches."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Yes. I'll show you. Now get the fuck out."
Ron winked, giving him a casual salute before leaving the living room. Harry took a calming
breath as he sunk into the couch.
He did have nice eyes. Apart from his son Albus, he had yet to see anything of the like. As for
everything else, he was fit for a middle-aged dad of three who'd worked behind a desk. He blamed
the "far too busy to eat properly" diet. He didn't hate the way he looked. He just always thought
other blokes looked better than he did. Like Draco Malfoy. Even with a sneer, that posh prat
earned all the vanity he possessed.
Harry was alright looking. Ginny was gorgeous, and she'd never have married a troll.
1. I guess I'll start with my eyes. Everyone's always going on about my eyes.
2. My height? I'm about 182 cm, which I feel isn't too tall or too short.
3. I wouldn't say they are favourites, as the stories behind them aren't the fluffiest, but I have a few
scars that remind me of more difficult times. Puts things into perspective.
4. My crooked smile? It dimples in one cheek, and I'm told it's the "cutest thing". Guess I'm going
off of others' favourites. That works, right?
5. According to my extremely straight best mate, I've got a great arse. Take from that what you
will. At least I think he's straight?
Harry re-read a few times and made some tweaks before resignedly deeming the responses
acceptable under the circumstances. He'd never been one to see his appearance in a positive light.
His hair was a mess, and even with his modern-style glasses, Harry couldn't help but feel a bit
dorky.
Confidence, Harry, he thought, moving on to the next section.
FIVE WORDS TO DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY
1. Boring. Starting off strong with that one.
Harry let out a forced laugh, a bit sick to his stomach, thinking how boring he actually was. He'd
been so busy with work, everything he used to do or enjoy had been pushed to the wayside,
collecting dust and cobwebs.
He could almost hear Hermione's voice saying, "You're too hard on yourself, Harry. Do you think
so many of us want to spend time with you out of pity?"
Harry was acting stupid, and he knew it. He'd just never taken the time to reflect on himself, and
now was the best time as any.
1. Quiet. I'm not usually one to carry a conversation. But I'm a great listener.
2. Loyal. I'd lay down my life for those that I love.
Then he thought of Draco and the Fiendfyre, chills running down his spine as the smell of smoke
and ash filled his senses, his skin scalding with heat from the memory.
2. Loyal. I'd lay down my life for those I love. Even those I don't.
3. Funny. Usually without meaning to be.
4. I'm a bit bull-headed. I don't usually think before I act. Gets me into trouble as often as out.
5. I'd say my friends would suggest brave, but I'll be honest. I'm feeling pretty anxious. This is
completely new territory. The dating thing. Weird to find this so scary compared to everything else
I've been through.
FIVE FAVOURITE HOBBIES
What were Harry's hobbies? He'd have to resort to the sorts of things he'd do if he had the time. But
he did have that time now. Harry would have to find some new hobbies.
1. Cooking. My previous job didn't allow me to play in the kitchen often, but since shifting to part-
time, I've found I rather like it. Can't promise I'm any good.
2. Flying. It's been ages, but I always felt a sense of relief and freedom in the air. I miss it. I'll have
to dig out my old broom.
3. Spending time with my kids. Also, something I rarely had time for, and that's going to change.
4. Working with my hands? Like fixing and building things. The Muggle way. Though I can speak
for other uses as well…
5. I'll leave this for the new one I discover with all this time on my hands.
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN?

[x] Yes
[ ] No
Harry clicked the 'Submit' button, and the page refreshed.
FATE
Now, Jamie, let's find out what you are looking for! Please fill out the following to the best of
your ability.
GENDER PREFERENCE
[ ] Female
[ ] Male
[ ] No Preference
Harry paused. Having been married to Ginny with little to no romantic experience prior, he hadn't
really considered his sexuality. He'd always found men and women attractive, but was he bisexual?
Then Harry thought about Draco, and his cheeks warmed. He'd definitely had a few hate-fuelled
wanks thinking about the git back in sixth-year. Then there was that bloke from Auror training.
And he'd take the number of times he thought about Bill Weasley to his grave.
GENDER PREFERENCE
[ ] Female
[ ] Male
[x] No Preference
AGE RANGE
[ ] 18-25
[ ] 25-35
[x] 35-45
[ ] 45-55
[ ] 55-65
[ ] 65-75
[ ] 75-85
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
[ ] Unemployed
[ ] Part-Time
[ ] Full-Time
[x] No Preference
CHILDREN
[ ] No Children
[ ] Has Children
[x] No Preference
The questionnaire continued for a good twenty minutes. Harry was already exhausted. Ron had
peeked in, snacking on a bowl of popcorn before ducking back into the kitchen.
Fate
Now, let's make a tagline! Something to grab attention!
Harry considered a moment before writing:
No time like the present. Carpe Diem and all that.
His final step was choosing an avatar from a list of pre-selected images. He thought a lion was a bit
on the nose, but he chuckled when he came across the black dog. Fate had led him to the Grim in
his past, and perhaps it would guide him towards his future. For the first time in a long while,
Harry thought of his godfather and smiled.
"Alright. Done!" Harry called.
Ron came whipping around the corner, sliding on his socked feet. He threw himself next to Harry
and snatched the phone from his hands.
"Hey!" Harry exclaimed.
Ron was already scrolling through the list of profiles. He paused. "Wait. You've got blokes in
here."
"Yeah, I'd expect so."
"Oh." Ron's cheeks tinged pink. "Well. Alright then." Ron returned to his perusing. "Huh. Not as
many as I thought."
Harry snatched the phone from his hand. "Yeah, well, you don't have kids."
"So what? You're a fucking DILF. Own it."
Harry glared at him. "You leaving yet?"
Ron rolled his eyes as he stood. "Fine. I'll leave you to it. Don't you dare delete your profile."
"We'll see," said Harry sceptically.
"Trust me. Low risk, high reward. Doesn't work out? Can't kick down a door if you don't know
whose door it is."
"Has someone kicked down your door before?"
"No comment. Right. Breakfast tomorrow?"
"Can't. Working the open shift."
"Great! I'll come with you!"
"Ron. Mate. I love you. I'm so glad you're back. But you're not coming with me to work. What
about your family? Spend a day with your mum. Or what about that girl you're talking to? Isn't she
excited you're back in England?"
Ron ran his fingers through his hair. "I haven't told her. What if she doesn't want to meet, and this
has all just been a laugh? A siren call ready to toss me to the rocks."
"Fate spokesmodel right there. Ron, if you like this girl, ask her. If you do, I'll let you pick my
first." Harry wiggled his phone playfully.
Ron glared at him, then pulled out his phone. He typed something rather aggressively before
shoving it in Harry's face.
'So I'm in town. Fancy a pint?'
Harry smiled at the icon next to the name 'Violet'. "A puppy? Cute."
Ron smiled at the thumbnail of the curly-tailed pug. "I'm sure she is."
Ding!
Ron's eyes widened as he looked down at the screen. "She said yes!"
After a brief albeit extremely awkward victory dance, Ron had snatched Harry's phone again.
"Okay…so. Since we're into guys now…"
"Hey! I've always…sort of…"
Ron waved his hand in dismissal. "I was there. You got hard for Malfoy, I know."
Harry gaped at him. "What?!"
"Okay. This one."

He handed the phone back, and Harry took it, inspecting the selected profile.
Harry arched an eyebrow. "A dragon?"
"Dragons are cool! He's probably some hot dragon wrangler. Hell, maybe it's Charlie."
"I'm not dating your brother after divorcing your sister!"
"Good point. Age doesn't match up anyway." Ron grabbed his jacket off the armchair as he walked
towards the hearth. "Breakfast on Tuesday, then?"
Harry smirked. "Sure."
Ron winked. "Knock him dead, Jamie. The Burrow!"
In a flash of green flames, Ron was gone. Harry collapsed, lying sprawled out on the couch. How
that man had the energy of a twenty-something-year-old, Harry would never know. Lack of kids,
most likely. Harry rubbed his eyes before looking back at his phone.
Lucah, 40
As for time, I have very little. Make it worth it.
Harry laughed. "Well, aren't you a ray of sunshine?" He wasn't sure what compelled Ron to select
this profile, of all things. Perhaps it was just the damn dragon. Yeah. It was definitely the dragon.
GENDER
Male
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
Full-Time
CHILDREN
Has Children
1. My hair is gorgeous. No, you cannot touch it.
2. I've always been told I could cut glass with this jaw. I require a release form absolving any
responsibility of my own if personal injury does occur.
3. My eyes, the only welcome inheritance from my father. I will not talk about my father.
4. If I were a woman, I assume I'd be the 'legs for days' sort. Thank you, tailoring.
5. And as one would expect, lastly—my Cock[ney accent]. That was a joke, obviously. Two, in
fact. There's only one sort of cock I want coming out of my mouth, and Cockney surely is NOT it.

1. At this very moment? Unpleasant (and several other moments, I assure you).
2. Annoyed at having been coerced to divulge such prattle by my FORMER best friend. Also in
search of a new best friend.
3. Some would say arrogant. I would say confident.
4. Extremely sarcastic. See above, below, and every further conversation in due course.
5. Indomitable. I've never let what happened in the past dictate my future (even if others do)
1. Reading. I have an extensive library and wish to read every book before I die. I shall be living to
the ripe age of 497.
2. Drawing. I happened to take a class with my son over the summer and found it extremely
soothing. If you ask me to draw you like one of my French girls, I swear to God. I don't even know
what that means!
3. Quidditch. I had always dreamed of playing professionally, but life does not always go as
planned. Dreams always die.
4. Verbal sparring. I am the self-proclaimed National Champion.
5. Spending time with my son.
Harry laughed out loud on multiple occasions. This Lucah was a character, that was for certain.
Though he came off as a bit of a snob, Harry wasn't entirely put off. In fact, he found it quite
endearing.
After worrying his lip for a good five minutes, Harry tapped the 'Message' button.
Lucah
Today 8:17 PM
Jamie: I, Jamie, hereby waive any and all responsibility of Lucah's regarding physical injury due to
hazardous jawlines.
Jamie: My hair is a disaster. You won't want to touch it. So we're even.
Delivered
Then, because Harry was a bloody coward, he turned on Do Not Disturb and went to bed.
-----
"Draco! Someone messaged you!"
The dark-haired woman came running across the room.
"Why in Merlin's name would they do that? And what are you doing with my phone?!"
Pansy glared at him. "It's not like you use it! It was sitting on the counter, covered in dust. At least
you had the sense to keep it plugged in."
"I do use it, Pans," he drawled. "And that wasn't dust. I had a very eventful evening channelling my
inner Delia Smith. There are biscuits in the tin on the counter. They are dreadful."
Pansy let out a groan. "This is just so sad. Do you want to die alone?"
"Excuse me?" asked Draco in mock offence. "How can I die alone when I have you dashing in and
out of my house at all hours? Uninvited."
She rolled her eyes. "Just look at it. His profile looks decent."
Draco set down his book as he extended his hand for the phone, a look of clear annoyance on his
face. Pansy smirked smugly as she placed it in his hand.
"Jamie. 39. There's no time like the present. Carpe Diem and all that." He arched an eyebrow at
her. "Are you serious?"
"Ugh. Just message him back already!"
"What does it matter? Do I have to respond to everyone?"
"Draco. There hasn't been anyone in ages."
"Exactly. There's clearly something wrong with him. Dodging a Bludger, I'd say."
She snatched the phone back, scowling. "Enough of this! It's been over three years. And you and I
both know it wasn't love in the first place. Don't you want to meet your knight in shining armour?
Your true love?"
Draco leaned back in his chair and cracked open his book. "I don't deserve true love."
Pansy let out a huff as she stomped over, grabbing the book from his hands. "Draco Lucius
Malfoy! Everyone deserves to be loved—especially you. If not for yourself, then for Scorpius'
sake. He's so worried about you being on your own."
"I told you. I have you. You're enough to be getting on with, I assure you."
Pansy's cheeks reddened, and her smile broadened. "Not for much longer, I'd say. We're finally
going on a real date," she said dreamily.
"That Louis chap?"
"Mhm."
"But I thought he lived abroad. Curse-Breaker of some sort, isn't he?"
"Hot, right?" she sighed as she slumped onto the chaise longue. "Egypt must be so exotic. I would
look lovely with a tan."
"You say that like he's about to whisk you away to the Middle East on his magic carpet."
"Why not? I have nothing left for me here."
"I beg your—"

"I meant family, obviously!" she amended. "I hate the thought of leaving you and Scorpius. Not to
mention Minnie. But this feels…Draco, this is what I want you to feel. I…I think I'm in love with
him."
"You don't even know what the bastard looks like or if he is who he says he is."
"Fate doesn't allow for anything ingenuine or malicious. He is…or at the very least, entirely
believes he is who he says he is. But of course, if there's no chemistry, there's no getting around
that. I just. I don't know. It feels like…this is it."
Draco looked at the woman, her expression soft and full of hope. He couldn't help the smile that
tugged at the corner of his lips.
"Such a hopeless romantic," he teased. "Very well. Read it to me."
Pansy sat up, her eyes sparkling. She cleared her throat. "'I, Jamie, hereby waive any and all
responsibility of Lucah's regarding physical injury due to hazardous jawlines.' Oh, well, isn't that
nice!" She shot a glance at Draco, covering her mouth as she giggled. "'My hair is a disaster. You
won't want to touch it. So we're even.'"
"That's it?"
"That's it."
"Ugh. Give it here."
Draco stared at the screen, re-reading the messages. So, Jamie had a sense of humour. Draco would
bite. It's not like he had anything better to do, and nothing would come of it in the end.
He typed his response, hesitating only a moment before clicking 'Send.'

Chapter 2
Monday, 22nd June
Harry knocked his phone to the floor in an attempt to turn off his alarm. As he leaned down to pick
it up, he noticed there was a Fate notification. He shoved his glasses on his face and sat up in bed.
He tapped the screen, and the chat pulled up.
Lucah
Yesterday 8:17 PM
Jamie: I, Jamie, hereby waive any and all responsibility of Lucah's regarding physical injury due to
hazardous jawlines.
Jamie: My hair is a disaster. You won't want to touch it. So we're even.
Yesterday 8:42 PM
Lucah: Wonderful. I shall alert my solicitor.
Lucah: A fellow disaster gay? What a treat! Though I must also question your sanity having
responded to this disaster of a profile. Good Lord, do you need glasses? My neighbour happens to
be an optometrist. I can get you the Friends & Family discount. However, we aren't friends or
family. Forget the discount. Standard rates apply.
Harry couldn't help his snort as he read the response.
Lucah
Today 7:38 AM
Jamie: As tempting as that sounds, I already wear glasses.
Jamie: And to be fair, I didn't pick your profile. My friend did.
Jamie: I'll be sure to refer him to your neighbour.
Jamie: What's their number?
Delivered
Harry slipped out of bed, took a shower and got dressed. Just as he had closed the front door, he felt
it vibrate in his pocket.
Lucah
Today 8:04 AM
Lucah: Ha! As if I'd hand you another man's number when you already have me so thoroughly
dazzled by your wit.
Lucah: It is truly an honour to be hand-selected by the person you trust unequivocally with your
eternal happiness…or, in the unfortunate case of my future partner, perennial torment.
Lucah: You actually wear glasses? By choice? When there are potions, Muggle contacts, and laser
surgery?
Lucah: I'll be honest and say I always liked a man in spectacles. If one has the proper nose for it.
*glasses and nose emoji*
Harry lifted his hand reflexively to inspect his nose. It seemed normal enough. Not too big, and not
too small.
Lucah
Jamie: I think my nose is okay. *thinking emoji*
Lucah: Well, that remains to be seen, doesn't it? In fact, you did not mention your nose as a
favourite physical feature, so my expectations are quite low.
Lucah: Of course, trimming down my extensive list to ONLY five was excruciating. I'll imagine
the same for you, darling.
Lucah: Jamie. #6: Flawlessly symmetrical and striking nose, perfect for spectacles.
Lucah: There. Fixed!
Harry Apparated to the nearest underground station, boarding the train heading towards the
university. He took a seat in the far corner before pulling out his phone again.
Lucah
Today 8:22 AM
Jamie: What's your #6, then?
Lucah: Oh, Merlin. Not again! *gasp emoji*
Lucah: We've only just grown acquainted, and you've already resorted to torture? Frankly, I didn't
realise we would need a safe word this early on.
Harry nearly choked on his saliva, receiving alarmed glances from nearby passengers. He waved
his hand and smiled at a woman nearby.
What the hell was he getting himself into with this bloke? Could he really be…was Lucah
suggesting that he was into the sort of things that required a safe word? Was that what he meant
by…perennial torment? Ginny had been a bit adventurous in bed, sure. But nothing so extreme
as…well. Harry's cheeks heated.
Lucah
Lucah: Let's go with 'doily'. Very unsexy. Should not have any problems avoiding that slip in the
throes of passion.
Jamie: I don't know. You haven't seen what I can do with a tea towel. *smirking emoji*
Lucah: Well, that does wonders for the imagination. *winking-kiss emoji*
Harry had pressed send before he'd even realised what he was doing. He was…flirting? Since when
did he know how to flirt? Even if Harry didn't, it appeared that Jamie did. That seemed to make all
the difference. He was putting Harry aside with no pressure to impress or meet unrealistic
expectations. Harry could just be.
Lucah
Lucah: Blatant flirting aside, I suppose I should begin the "getting to know you" phase. What, my
dearest Jamie, are you up to this fine Monday morning?
Jamie: On my way to work. Starting a new job today.
Lucah: Really? A bit old for a career change, wouldn't you say?
Jamie: If I'm old, so are you! *elderly-man emoji*
Lucah: Precisely. We are too old for any dramatic shifts in our lives. In fact, this is exactly why I
shouldn't even be here talking to you.
Lucah: I enjoy my routine. Making the rules. I was born to be the Queen of England. *crown
emoji*
Today 8:39 AM
Jamie: I don't mind being bossed around.
Today 8:48 AM
Lucah: Oh, really?
Jamie: Really.
Delivered
-----
"What are you smiling about?"
Draco's smirk fell as he looked up at Pansy, who'd set a coffee on his desk beside his nameplate:
D. MALFOY
Editor-In-Chief - The Quibbler
He slipped his phone into his breast pocket as he took a sip of the coffee.
"You can keep your offensive excuse of a nose out of other people's business."
Pansy lifted her hand to her face and gasped. "I paid £5,000 for this nose!"
"And it is absolute perfection, Pans. I just hate that I can't call you my little Pug-nosed Pansy
anymore."
"When have you ever called me that?" she huffed.
"Perhaps that was purely in my head. I am nothing if not a gentleman."
She placed a hand on her hips as she scowled. "And for that Draco Lucius Malfoy, I deserve to
stick this perfect nose in your business."
Draco rolled his eyes as he took another sip of coffee, swivelling in his chair. "Fine. It's this, Jamie.
He is clearly a masochist."
Pansy smiled fiendishly. "Kinky. Did he tell you that?"
"Who could continue a conversation with Lucah apart from one who enjoys self-inflicted torture?"
"Oh, for…Draco. What are you—? Ugh. Give me your phone."
Draco lifted his chin, squinting in consideration. "No. I don't think so."
"You're being positively ridiculous, aren't you? You're trying to scare him off! What is it with you
and your relentless pursuit of self-sabotage?"
"Even if that was true, it isn't working."
Pansy came around his desk, placing her hands on his shoulders. "For once in your life, can't you
just…let things happen? You don't have to control every single aspect of your life."
Draco smiled, eyes flashing. "It appears that Jamie does not mind that particular trait."
Pansy's eyebrow lifted. "Oh?"
"It was nothing," he said, waving a hand. "It was in jest, I'm sure."
Pansy stared shrewdly before releasing his shoulders. "Well. You find him interesting, to say the
least."
Draco shrugged. "Remains to be seen."
She smirked, tapping him on the cheek. "If that were true, you'd have ignored him, Mr Very Little
Time."
"Thank you for the coffee, Pans."
Pansy winked at him. "Will you come by my place after work? I'll grab your favourite Indian take-
away. You can help me get ready for my date." She smiled giddily as her cheeks flushed.
"So it's really happening? You're meeting this Louis tonight?"
"Oh, no! It's not until Friday."
"But it's Monday! Why in Merlin's name do you need me tonight?"
"Draco, I'll be needing you all week," she exclaimed.
"What on Earth for?!"

She stuck out her bottom lip in a pout as she tugged on his hand. "There are about five or so films I
told him I'd seen, which of course I haven't. I need you to watch them with me."
"You lied to him? I thought you said the app did not allow for malicious intent."
"It wasn't malicious! I had every intention of watching them…eventually. I didn't think we'd be
meeting this soon!"
"I might be a lonely bachelor, but that doesn't mean my evenings are free for you to do with as you
wish."
Draco knew very well that was usually the case. If he wasn't reading or drawing at home or
avoiding society and its graces entirely, he was being dragged off by Pansy to who knows where
for whatever frivolous reason. He loved the woman, but she had always been rather needy. Her
insistence on Draco dating had more to do with her own difficulty living with loneliness rather than
his. But when it came to Pansy, it was best to indulge and avoid unnecessary dramatics.
"Ask someone else," said Draco, taking another drink.
"You know Minnie's always busy on weeknights," said Pansy, pouting. "Please, Draco. I promise if
there is anything you need in regards to this, Jamie, I'll help you too!"
"Alright, fine. I'll see you around six."
She let out a squeak as she leaned down to peck him on the cheek. "I'll see you later, darling."
As she floated out the door, it closed swiftly behind her with a flick of Draco's wand. He let out a
resigned sigh as he looked down at the looming pile of articles ready for marking. Luna had gone
on one of her "I can't recall what sleep is and why it is necessary for the human body" phases. This
often meant taking twice as long deciphering sleep-deprived twaddle in conjunction with her usual
factless drivel.
Draco had given up years ago trying to rein in the woman, insisting upon providing concrete proof
behind her outlandish headlines. There was no avoiding it. It was best to treat it as gossip and
entertainment rather than a reliable news source. Not that The Prophet was much better.
If it hadn't been for Luna, Draco knew his career aspirations would have been quite limited. He'd
applied for nearly every posted position after Hogwarts, and Junior Editor at The Quibbler was his
only return owl. Though it first felt like an embarrassment, especially from the point of view of his
parents, Draco soon embraced the unconventional profession. He'd never thought he'd enjoy a job
so much in his life, apart from the bipolar ebb and flow of Luna's bizarre work schedule. Draco had
always maintained his 9 to 5 while the woman might not make an appearance at all.
When Xenophelius finally retired, he immediately expected him to leave it to Luna, but she had no
interest in running a magazine. The Quibbler was far better for it, and if not for Draco, it would
have closed up shop years ago.
Even after almost twenty years at The Quibbler, he had managed to keep his and Luna's
relationship strictly professional. Just because he got along with a Ravenclaw did not mean he had
any interest in dealing with her band of Gryffindor chums. Cordial evenings with Longbottom were
quite enough, thank you very much.
No. Best to keep far away from the Gryffindors. From Potter.
His phone pinged in his pocket, and he pulled it out again.

Jamie
Today 8:54 AM
Jamie: What about you? How's your Monday?
Jamie: Apologies in advance. My shift is about to start. It may be a few hours until I see your
reply.
Jamie: If you reply.
Jamie: I hope you reply. *sweat-smile emoji*
Draco felt a flutter in his chest. "Masochist," he hissed to himself.
Jamie
Today 8:56 AM
Lucah: Well. It is a Monday. So there's that nugget of sunshine. *sun emoji* ☀️
Lucah: I've just arrived at work myself. However, I'm prepared to walk straight out the door.
Lucah: There is a stack of parchment that could rival the Eiffel Tower sitting on my desk, no doubt
overflowing with nonsense I have to sort through and make semi-coherent.
Lucah: It appears a particular associate thought it prudent to complete a month's worth of work in
one weekend. *unamused emoji*
Lucah: Which then leaves the Quaffle in my pitch, so to speak.
Lucah: The life of an editor is thankless work, and surprisingly hasn't turned my brain to mush.
Lucah: I suppose I do have something to look forward to. The next few evenings, I'll be watching
a no doubt tastefully curated collection of films with my friend as she told the bloke she was dating
that she had seen them already.
Lucah: I'm afraid I have no idea what I'm getting myself into, which is a bit more concerning than
a looming workload, if I'm completely honest.
Jamie: It shouldn't matter what you watch. You're spending time with your friend, yeah?
-----
Harry tied his apron as he glanced at his phone, checking the recent messages.
Lucah
Today 8:58 AM
Lucah: Don't be so dull, Jamie. *unamused emoji*
Lucah: But yes. I suppose you are right.

Lucah: Merlin, that felt wrong. I take it back. Obliviate! *magic-wand emoji*
Jamie: Nice try. *laughing emoji*
Jamie: You'll have to tell me what you're going to watch. If it's something I haven't seen, I might
watch it with you.
Jamie: Not with you.
Jamie: Like, I'll watch while you watch. At my place. Alone.
Jamie: Fuck.
Jamie: Is that weird?
Jamie: Obliviate! *magic-wand emoji*
Delivered
"Come on, Harry, I need your help re-stocking the pastry case," called Sean from the other side of
the break room door.
Harry turned his phone on silent and stuffed it in his pocket, his heart pounding in his chest as his
anxiety flared. He wished he could excuse it as nerves from starting a new job, but he knew exactly
what it was. Lucah made him nervous. He hadn't felt anything like that since school. He didn't
even know he could feel like this.
"On my way," he called as he straightened his apron, painfully aware of the weight in his pocket.
-----
"Good job today, Harry," said Sean as he counted the till. "Mondays are always mental."
"Thanks. It was…fun."
Sean gave him a sidelong glance. "Give it a week, and you'll be singing a different tune. The
customers were surprisingly pleasant today."
Harry made the final tally on the inventory sheet before handing it to Sean. "Are they not usually?"
"I pray to the product fulfilment Gods that we never run out of oat milk again," whispered Sean,
shuddering. "People are very passionate about oat milk." He placed his hands on his hips and
turned up his nose. "Ugh! What do you mean you don't have oat milk? What am I supposed to do
now? Almond?! Do you know how much water is used to make a litre of almond milk?!"
Harry let out a laugh. "Wow. People care that much?"
The petite brunette girl who had helped train Harry on his shift popped out of the break room. "It's
becoming a serious issue in America. One California Almond takes about twelve litres of water—"
"Thank you, Candice," said Sean.
The girl gave a little nod and an awkward wave before grabbing her bag and heading for the exit.
"Everyone's a critic. I dropped dairy altogether last spring, and I swear it's never enough." Sean
shook his head. "At least you have about four months to prepare for the Pumpkin Spice season."
"My wi—ex-wife loves that stuff."
"I'm sure she does. Anyway, here are your tips for the day. See you Wednesday?"
Harry took the envelope and gave his thanks. "See you."
He shrugged on his jacket, waving to Sean as he stepped out onto the street.
Lucah
Today 2:14 PM
Lucah: Is this how our relationship is going to survive the test of time? Memory Charms? You
know, Jamie, I think we may be onto something there. Why waste time with make-up sex when
you could just have sex? *lightbulb emoji*
Lucah: And apparently, our first film is Die Hard. Honestly, I'd rather die hard.
Harry had to stop and pinch the bridge of his nose, his shoulders shaking with suppressed laughter.
It didn't stop the heat from rushing to his groin at the thought of sex with this cheeky mystery man.
Lucah
Today 4:53 PM
Jamie: You'll walk up to the pearly gates like that?
Lucah: Jamie. This is Heaven we are talking about. Obviously, an eternity of unknown pleasures
awaits me there, and I will not remain unsated.
Jamie: Fair enough.
Lucah: I take it you must have finished work?
Jamie: Yeah, just left.
Lucah: Was it everything you dreamed of and more?
Jamie: Well, it was something new. And that was the point.
Lucah: Was your previous career such a bore?
Jamie: Not always. I just didn't want to do it anymore.
Lucah: So you just. What? Quit?

Jamie: Yep
Lucah: You had this new job lined up beforehand, of course.
Jamie: Nope
Lucah: I have officially broken out in hives. What's your address? I will forward my invoice from
the chemist.
Lucah: Are you always so reckless? I'm not sure my heart could take the spontaneity!
Jamie: Sounds like you need to get out more, Lucah.
Lucah: I get out plenty! I'm so far out there's practically a Muggle neon sign floating above my
head flashing GAY! *lightbulb-rainbow-lightbulb emojis*
Lucah: I know that's not what you meant. If you haven't noticed by now, I cannot help myself.
Lucah: Actually, you, once again, are right. Obliviate! *magic-wand emoji*
Lucah: I've been sort of a recluse the past year or so. Apart from when my friend, let's call her
Daisy, tugs me out like a sore tooth.
Lucah: Or when my son is at home. He can't sit in one place for more than an hour at most.
Lucah: Oh, goodie! We've reached that little detail about having children. Feel free to delete this
chat now.
Jamie: No need
Jamie: I have 3
Lucah: Three?! Are they yours? Or did you adopt?
Jamie: No. They're definitely mine. Same mother. My ex-wife.
Lucah: So you were married before.
Jamie: For nearly 16 years, yeah.
Jamie: I technically still am.
Jamie: But we're going through the motions.
Jamie: You know
Jamie: Divorce.
Lucah: So I'm your emotional security blanket while your ex-wife strips you of all your assets and
rips your heart to shreds?!
Jamie: No! You're not!
Jamie: It was mutual and planned.
Jamie: We were just waiting for the right time to tell the kids.
Jamie: She's already seeing someone…
Lucah: While you were married?!
Jamie: It's complicated. But we're fine. I want her to be happy, and she wasn't happy with me.
Lucah: What about you? Were you happy?
Jamie: I thought I was. I guess I don't quite know what happy is anymore.
Lucah: Don't you want to be happy?
Jamie: Yes. Of course.
Lucah: Are you now?
Jamie: I think I'm well on my way.
Lucah: I take it the abrupt career change has been in your favour?
Jamie: Yeah. Definitely.
Jamie: And I like talking to you. That makes me happy.
Lucah: Merlin, it's been less than 24 hours!
Jamie: Oh. Right.
Lucah: I like talking to you too.
Lucah: I don't think you ever mentioned what it is that you do. Now, that is.
Jamie: I work in a coffee shop.
Lucah: Is that right? A 39-year-old barista?
Lucah: Is it weird that I find that surprisingly hot? A little apron and everything?
Jamie: Yep
Lucah: So I can count on fancy coffee in bed each morning? *coffee emoji* ☕️
Jamie: If you're good. *winking emoji*
Lucah: If you could see this face, you would know it was the face of an angel. A face that
deserves all the cappuccinos it desires. *angel-child emoji*
Jamie: I believe you. *laughing emoji*
Lucah: Sorry. Must dash. Film date, and all that.
Jamie: Oh, right. Have fun dying hard.
Lucah: Ha. ha.
-----
Jamie
Today 7:49 PM
Lucah: Well, this film is…interesting.
Today 7:58 PM
Jamie: Muggles actually think it's a Christmas movie.
Lucah: Really? This is the sort of thing that loved ones huddle up together and watch, drinking
peppermint hot chocolate and eating ginger nuts?
Jamie: Uni students, most definitely.
Lucah: Fair point.
Lucah: I will say, this Hans chap could fuck me into next week, and it wouldn't be nearly enough.
Lucah: Apologies. Was that inappropriate? I don't know what the boundaries are as far as fantasy
celebrity fucks go. Are you the jealous sort? I most definitely am.
Jamie: Then I will refrain from any comments regarding McClane's arse.
Lucah: Much obliged.
Jamie: Also. I think I might be? It's weird. I've never really done this before.
Lucah: What?
Jamie: Talking. Dating. Well. Talking mainly. In school, I had a few crushes, but I never talked to
them. Or the talking was very…counterproductive.
Jamie: I couldn't be surprised that nothing came of it, right? Well, except for…you know—the ex.
Lucah: Did you date long before you got married?
Jamie: No. We had this thing in school, but we broke up. Then I guess we just started up where we
left off and
Jamie: Well
Jamie: Here we are.
Lucah: You had three children together.
Jamie: Yeah. They're amazing. I don't regret any of it.
Jamie: What I want to change about my life I'm changing now. So what's the point worrying about
what could have been, you know?
Lucah: Yes. I suppose you're right.
Lucah: Fuck. Obliviate! *magic-wand emoji*
Lucah: I, on the other hand, regret very much.
Jamie: Do you…er…want to talk about it?
Lucah: Not particularly, no.
Jamie: Okay.
Jamie: So, is your son adopted then?
Lucah: I must tell you that I'm literally loling right now. He's most definitely mine. *laughing
emoji*
Lucah: I'm sorry. If you knew what he looked like. What I look like.
Lucah: Well, he looks exactly like me. Just as I look like my father. Scratch that. I don't have a
father. Moving on.
Jamie: Move I shall.
Jamie: I can relate. One of my sons looks a lot like me too, but we couldn't be more different. I'm
happy about that, though. He can be his own person.
Lucah: Oh, yes. My son. Let's call him Ryan. He's full of life and laughter. A delight to everyone
around him. He makes friends so easily.
Lucah: Nothing like me whatsoever.

Lucah: Apart from his dashing good looks. *winking emoji*
Jamie: You have friends. You're with one right now.
Lucah: A 'friend' who I am completely ignoring to talk to a complete stranger.
Lucah: And I pay her to tell people she's my friend. Obviously.
Jamie: Obviously.
Jamie: You should probably stop ignoring her.
Lucah: You're right. I should.
Lucah: Obliviate. *magic-wand emoji*
Jamie: Night, Lucah. *sleepy emoji*
Lucah: Goodnight, Jamie.
Jamie: Talk tomorrow?
Lucah: Absolutely.
Delivered
Draco looked up and saw that the television had been turned off. When his head turned towards
Pansy, their noses nearly touched. Draco let out a yelp as he jumped away from her. She was
grinning as she rested her elbow on the top edge of the sofa, hand supporting her head.
"Draco."
He glared at her. "What?"
"I told you."
"Told me what?"
"It's Fate."
"It most certainly isn't! I bet you twenty Galleons that in two weeks, I'll have become a distant
memory to Jamie."
Pansy gave his arm a playful slap. "Stop being so dramatic," she said. She was smiling, but her
eyes looked sad. "Draco. I've never seen you smile like this. Not for ages." Draco's face fell. Pansy
laced her fingers with his. "This is a good thing, love. Even if it isn't Jamie in the end. But tell me,
Draco. How do you feel?"
"I—I don't know."
"When's the last time you felt you don't know?"
"It's barely been 24 hours, Pans!"

"That didn't answer my question," she said flatly.
He looked down at the blank screen of his phone. "Never."
Not since him. Potter. But that wasn't the same—a one-sided crush with someone who despised
you and would spit on your corpse if they had the chance.
"Never," he repeated.
Pansy wrapped her arms around him, and Draco let her pull him against her chest. She began to
hum the lullaby his mother would sing to them when they were younger that always soothed him.
Pansy ran her fingers through his long hair, and his eyes grew heavy.
Even if he didn't know who to picture, Draco could imagine the embrace and gentle caresses
belonging to someone else entirely.
-----
Harry turned off the television and stood, stretched, then made his way up to the bedroom and
plugged in his phone, grabbing some pyjama bottoms to get ready for bed. As Harry brushed his
teeth, he stared into the mirror. Harry looked tired, but he'd never felt more refreshed. He took a
good long look at his nose, deciding that he did, in his personal opinion, have a decent nose for
glasses.
He'd almost spit out his toothpaste on a few occasions as he recalled some of Lucah's messages.
Harry was giddy, and his cheeks were tingling…among other parts. For the first time in his life, he
felt light—no burden of responsibilities and obligations weighing him down.
When Harry slipped into his bed, he allowed himself to extend a hand, grazing the cool fabric of
the sheets on what used to be Ginny's side of the bed. Did he dare imagine a new companion at his
side? It was all so new, and it had barely even begun.
Harry knew he didn't want anything fleeting. If he was going to put himself out there, he was going
all in. He also knew that it could also mean his desolation. But something in his heart told him this
was different.
Even if Ron had picked Lucah for him…wasn't the app's main goal to lead you to your 'Fate'?
Harry knew he needed to be patient. But something told him that he was on the right track.
Grimmauld. His new job. Lucah.
He sent a group text to his kids, telling them goodnight and that he loved them.
Harry wasn't about to waste a single moment ever again.

Chapter 3
Tuesday, 18th June
Lucah
Today 9:38 PM
Jamie: What was the entertainment of choice this evening?
Lucah: Time and sanity I will surely NEVER retrieve.
Jamie: That bad?
Lucah: 2 hours and 13 minutes of UTTER TORTURE.
Lucah: Whoever this bloke is, he's an absolute sadist. Who takes nearly the entire Beatles
discography and turns it into the most insane musical train wreck…dare I call it a musical? It's a
blasphemy to thespians worldwide!
Jamie: Are you talking about Across the Universe? I liked that film.
Lucah: Oh, Merlin, NO! You're one of THEM! *gasp emoji*
Jamie: Them?
Lucah: You know. 'The Beatles are the most groundbreaking musical talents the likes of which we
may never see again' sort.
Jamie: So if I tell you I like the Sex Pistols, I'm obviously in an underground anarchist group
preparing to storm Parliament?
Lucah: Undoubtedly.
Lucah: I expect your best pomp and circumstance as I'm elevated to the throne as Her Royal
Fierceness, Queen of our new Empire. (You would, of course, be my King Regent, should you
wish to lay claim to the title) *crown emoji*
Jamie: If you wish to see me on my knees so badly, all you need to do is ask.
Lucah: Oh, Dearest Jamie. Why ask when a Queen can command? *smirking emoji*
-----
Wednesday, 19th June
Lucah
Today 10:12 PM
Jamie: So if you also have a son, were you married before? Or…
Lucah: Yes.
Jamie: So, you're…bisexual? Sorry, I don't want to assume.
Lucah: It's quite alright.
Lucah: No, I'm definitely gay. I'm embarrassed to say it was a deeply closeted existence.
Lucah: For a long time.
Jamie: And you got married and had a kid.
Lucah: How very heteronormative of me. I was extremely convincing.
Jamie: And what happened with your…ex-wife?
Jamie: Or…are you still married?
Delivered
Harry was in a unique situation himself. Still, he'd often heard of men in lavender marriages,
exploring their sexuality elsewhere with no true intent of making it into something more. That's not
what Harry wanted. Not that that was what Lucah was offering. Harry could sense the sincerity of
the man. He hoped Lucah sensed it too.
Lucah
Lucah: No, I am no longer married.
Lucah: She died three years ago.
Jamie: That's terrible. *anxious emoji*
Jamie: I'm so sorry for your loss…
Lucah: Thank you. She was very ill for a long time. It's truly a blessing that her suffering has come
to an end.
Jamie: Yeah. That's good.
Lucah: She was a sweet girl. A wonderful mother.
Jamie: Did you love her?
Jamie: Sorry. You don't have to answer.

Lucah: It's alright. I loved her. As my friend. My partner. The mother of my child. But I was not in
love. I knew I never would be. And so did she.
Jamie: Did she know about…you know?
Lucah: That I was gay? Most definitely. I might have spilled the tea during a particularly sloppy
evening of drinking with her and some of our friends during the 'courting period'.
Lucah: We'd somehow managed to find ourselves in my bed, and she…ahem…made advances.
Lucah: She kissed me on the mouth, and then I said, "I'm gay."
Jamie: Yikes. How'd that go?
Lucah: I forgot the entire thing. She had to tell me second hand. But I believed her. It destroyed
me to keep it hidden for so long. So many years of living a lie.
Lucah: I was shocked she went through with the marriage. I'm sure my surname was the most
appealing, albeit falling out of favour in recent years. I had always wanted a child of my own, and
she had flawless bone structure. So, why not?
Jamie: You some sort of Duke or something?
Lucah: Or something.
Jamie: Alright then. And then what happened?
Lucah: Then she became ill. I cared for her and our son. It was after Ryan left for school when she
had made a turn for the worse. She passed just before the Christmas holiday.
Jamie: I'm so sorry. How's your son doing?
Lucah: He's…strong. Stronger than his father, by far. I know he misses her, but I think he knows
she would want him to enjoy his life to the fullest. In the way she never had.
Lucah: Fuck, I'm crying. *crying emoji*
Lucah: I empty my soul to you, and what do I receive in return? Tears!
Jamie: I'm sorry! I didn't mean to…shit.
Lucah: Don't apologise. I know it may come as a surprise, but I can be a bit dramatic. *theatre
masks emoji*
Jamie: No way. You? *gasp emoji*
Lucah: I know. I'm a dull, well-mannered gentleman who would not dare attract any attention to
himself. I do hate the spotlight.
Jamie: Ugh, me too.

Jamie: I mean, I know you're joking but seriously.
Jamie: I wish I didn't stand out so much.
Lucah: Why? Because you're so breathtakingly handsome? Perhaps a fellow Duke or something?
Jamie: Or something. *sweat-smile emoji*
Lucah: Fantastic. You deserve a humbled individual on your arm, such as myself. I would never
bask in the shattered hearts beneath my feet.
Lucah: For long.
Jamie: You want to be on my arm then?
Lucah: Arm, leg, cock. What's the difference?
Jamie: Quite a bit, actually.
Lucah: Pity.
Harry gaped at the phone screen as a tingling sensation danced across his skin. He wasn't sure he
was ready for the direction the conversation was heading. Best to put it to bed…for now.
Lucah
Jamie: As much as I hate to say it, I have the morning shift tomorrow, and I need to get some
sleep. *sleepy emoji*
Lucah: Oh, alright. Sleep well, Jamie.
Jamie: Lucah?
Lucah: Yes, Jamie?
Jamie: Thanks for telling me.
Lucah: You're welcome.
After such a deep and heartfelt conversation, Harry knew it was inappropriate to have his main
takeaway be the fact that Lucah wanted his cock. But, fuck, if he didn't want it just as badly. Not
even three days and Harry was reeling.
He was happy. He was terrified. And he was hard.
"Arm, leg, cock. What's the difference?"
It had been ages since Harry came so quickly.

-----
Thursday, 20th June
Jamie
Today 8:47 PM
Lucah: JAMIE!!
Lucah: *emergency-light emoji* x 3
Lucah: OMFG!
Jamie: What's wrong?!
Lucah: We are watching TITANIC!
Jamie: …Okay?
Lucah: THE FRENCH GIRLS!
Jamie: *laughing emoji*
Jamie: I forgot about that.
Lucah: Okay. I can acknowledge the first time it was funny. Every instance since then. Dull.
Lucah: Updating my profile.
Lucah: There.
Lucah: "…If you ask me to draw you like one of my French girls, I swear to God, I will hex your
balls off. I'm the one dying of desperate need of being drawn like a French girl. MY GOD, LEO!"
Jamie: That's. Nice. *awkward :/ emoji*
Lucah: Sorry, was that too much? *hand over mouth emoji*
Jamie: No, it's fine. Sounds like you.
Lucah: Jamie. *monocle emoji*
Jamie: Yeah.
Lucah: What's wrong?
Jamie: Are you…

Jamie: Nevermind.
Lucah: Tell me.
Jamie: Are you talking to…other guys?
Lucah: No!
Lucah: …are you?
Jamie: No.
Lucah: Oh. Good.
Jamie: Yeah. Good.
Lucah: Great, actually.
Jamie: Yeah?
Lucah: Is there an echo in here?
Jamie: Sorry. I'm just.
Jamie: I'm really happy.
Jamie: Feels silly. Am I 39 or 13?
Lucah: I'm happy too. And I'll be honest. I haven't been for a very long time.
Jamie: For the record. I only want to talk to you.
Lucah: Yes. Me too, Jamie.
Jamie: I really like you
"PANSY!"
"What?! What is it?!"
She had nodded off on the couch and was rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Draco lifted his phone
into her face, and she blinked. Then her eyes widened.
"Eeeeee!!! Draco!" She threw her arms around him.
He placed a hand on her shoulder, pushing her off. "Stop shrieking like a banshee!"
"You need to message him back! Or he'll think he made you uncomfortable!"
"But I am uncomfortable!"
Pansy cut him a glare. "Because you won't admit you just might like him too."
"But what do I say?"
She rolled her eyes. "I. Like. You. Too?"
Draco hissed at her as he pushed his dishevelled hair out of his face. His heart was in his throat,
and his stomach was in his arse. He felt all sorts of upside down. He'd never confessed his feelings
before. Not to anyone. Sure, he had always told Astoria he loved her, which was true. But when it
truly mattered…
"No." He tossed the phone across the room. "You can't make me."
Pansy let out a groan of frustration as she launched off the sofa and snatched the phone before
Draco could do anything but gape in horror. She unlocked the phone, and her frown softened as the
corner of her mouth lifted into a smirk.
"He wants to meet you."
Draco felt a chill down his spine. "He…he does? Why would he want that?"
"Maybe because, by the look of things, Draco," she said while scrolling, "you're a fucking tease!
'Arm, leg, cock, what's the difference?!'"
"Give it here. Now!"
Draco sneered at Pansy's smug expression, taking the phone from her extended hand.
Jamie
Jamie: You don't have to say it back!
Jamie: I'd just. I'd like to take you out. Sometime.
Jamie: But I guess I don't exactly know if you live anywhere near me.
Jamie: Fuck it. We can Apparate or use the Floo, right?
Today 9:01 PM
Jamie: Shit. Did I scare you off? *anxious emoji*
Today 9:06 PM
Lucah: Sorry for the delay.
Lucah: No, you didn't. I might have had a mini panic attack because, as it appears, I am also 13.
Lucah: Just to be clear, I am NOT actually 13. But my son is.
Lucah: I just don't do…feelings. Often. Or ever.
Jamie: I'm sorry if I made it weird…
Lucah: Why are you apologising? For being so confident in yourself that you decided to tell a man
you fancy him?
Lucah: Next to a coward who pushes people away because he doesn't want to get hurt again.
Jamie: Someone…hurt you?
Lucah: Indirectly by their actions in which I cannot hold against them whatsoever. I can only
blame my sensitive disposition and youth.
Lucah: Oh, to be in love and know it wouldn't have changed anything in the slightest if he'd
known. He has his beautiful life, and I…well. I have you.
Jamie: That…I'm sorry?
Lucah: No! Oh, Merlin. That came out wrong.
Lucah: Fuck. I told you I don't do feelings!
Lucah: I'm absolute bollocks at this. *anxious emoji*
Lucah: Jamie. I like you. A lot. It's absolutely terrifying, actually. I don't know who you are or
what you look like, and perhaps those are the reasons why I've fallen so much further into this than
I would have under different circumstances.
Lucah: Also. I'd love to. Go out that is. Just. Not yet.
Lucah: I know that if we bring the physical in too quickly, I'd see my opportunity to shut out all
these inconvenient emotions you've so offensively pulled from the darkest corners of my being.
Lucah: Especially if you're as hot as I imagine you are.
Lucah: I don't want to fuck this up, Jamie.
Jamie: If anything, I'll fuck it up. And it's fine. You can take as long as you need.
Lucah: Was that a come-on, Jamie?
Jamie: It wasn't, but I wouldn't hate hearing a "Come on, Jamie" or "I'm about to come on Jamie"
Lucah: Did I say wait? What are you doing tonight? *monocle emoji*
Jamie: Don't tease.
Lucah: Am I a tease? My friend says I'm a tease.
Jamie: You're definitely a tease.
Jamie: And I love it.
Lucah: Good.
Lucah: Alright, Jamie. Emotionally drained as I am, I must turn in for the night.
Lucah: I'll talk to you tomorrow?
Jamie: Sure *smiley emoji*
Lucah: Good night, Jamie.
Jamie: Night, Lucah.
"So?"
"I told him."
"And? Are you going to meet him?"
"No."
Pansy threw herself down beside him on the couch, pouting. "Why not?"
"Pansy. I absolutely plan to meet him. I just need some time to process all of this. Wouldn't you?"
"I suppose you're right. It's been barely a week."
"Not even."
She took hold of his hand. "Draco. I'm so happy for you. I'm beyond. Now. Let's focus on me,
okay?"
Draco smirked. "Yes. I have been quite neglectful of late."
"It's alright. It's not your job to tend to me."
"But it might be Louis'," said Draco, wiggling his eyebrows.
She tossed a pillow at him. "Stop it. I'm so nervous I can't even eat! What if he hates me?!"
"Why on Earth would he hate you?"
"I don't know!"
Draco tightened his grip on her hand. "Darling, you are going to take his breath away."
-----
Friday, 21st June
"Tonight's the big night."
Ron was messing with his hair, combing it one way and then the other, wetting it, then spelling it
dry.
"Ron. Don't be nervous. I'm sure it will be great."
"What if she doesn't like red-heads? I could charm it a dark auburn—"
"Ron! This girl fell for you without knowing what you looked like. Frankly, she could do far
worse."
"Hey!"
Harry laughed. "I'm just saying. You're a handsome bloke. You're funny. She obviously already
thinks so. You're going to have a great time."
Ron looked at his reflection and smiled, saying, "You're gonna kill it, mate."
Harry slapped him on the back. "That's the spirit. Now go. You're going to be late."
Ron sighed, smiling nervously as he shrugged on his jacket. "Okay. If this goes south, you've got to
pick up the pieces, mate."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Go. Now."
Ron winked as he opened the door. "Say hi to Lucah for me."
-----
Lucah
Today 8:47 PM
Jamie: So. What are you up to this fine Friday evening?
Lucah: Absolutely nothing, I'm afraid. My only friend is off sealing her destiny or some nonsense.
A life which I will no longer be the centre of. It's quite annoying. *annoyed emoji*
Jamie: In English?
Lucah: She's on a date.
Jamie: Oh! You don't like the…bloke?
Lucah: Yes, it's a bloke. And no, I don't. But not of any fault of his own. I'm sure he's just lovely. I
can't help but be a bit possessive.
Jamie: …so you're possessive? *smirking emoji*
Lucah: You have no idea.
Jamie: I'd like to.
Lucah: Would you?

Jamie: The thought of you jealous is such a turn on.
Lucah: Fucking hell, Jamie. Here I am, not even 24 hours after telling you I want to take things
slow, and I'm sitting in bed with the most inconvenient erection. *aubergine emoji*
Jamie: Me too
Jamie: Also…an aubergine??
Lucah: Are you serious?
Lucah: What does it LOOK LIKE?
Jamie: OH! Wow, I'm thick. *yikes emoji*
Lucah: Are you…?
Jamie: I guess you could say that…
Lucah: Oh?
Lucah: Are you touching yourself?
Jamie: Yes
Lucah: And thinking about…what?
Jamie: You
Lucah: Of course, you are.
Lucah: And?
Jamie: Fuck, are we really doing this?
Lucah: What are we doing, Jamie?
Jamie: Fuck you
Lucah: Yes, Daddy. Please…
Jamie: Fucking hell
Lucah: Do you like being called Daddy?
Jamie: Fuck…God yes…
Lucah: I'm so hard, Daddy.

How had they already stumbled upon Harry's daddy kink?
Harry could barely breathe, and his cock was throbbing with need. He slid down his bottoms and
cast a quick lubrication charm as he took himself in his hand. His stomach was tense as he bit his
lip, groaning as he stroked his cock.
He'd been wanking almost nightly since he started talking to Lucah, but this was completely
different. Lucah knew he was wanking, and was most likely wanking himself. He let out a sharp
gasp as he ran his palm over the sensitive head, then increased his strokes.
He could barely manage it, but he looked down at his phone resting against his thigh.
Lucah
Lucah: How's your thick cock?
Lucah: I'm sure it's gorgeous.
Lucah: Fuck, I need more hands.
Lucah: Pardon me as I finger fuck myself until I come, wishing it was your glorious cock.
Harry gasped as his orgasm built, imagining his cock sliding in and out of Lucah's arse. Harry'd
never slept with a man before, but he'd watched enough porn to allow his imagination free rein. His
climax rattled through him as he came in violent spurts across his stomach. He would have to work
on his stamina, lest he embarrass himself by coming as fast as a teenager.
Lucah had not replied, and Harry closed his eyes as he pictured a fucked out man with gorgeous
hair and breathtaking eyes, fingers buried inside him. The blurry image made him hard again, but
he was far too spent to attempt another go.
Lucah
Today 8:54 PM
Jamie: You'll need far more than a finger to imagine my cock.
Jamie: Fuck, I wish I could see it.
Jamie: I came so hard thinking about fucking you.
Today 9:09 PM
Lucah: Jamie! My neighbours are sure to call the authorities as there has obviously been a murder
from all of the screaming. *police car emoji*
Lucah: How in Merlin's name could a nondescript individual with a nondescript cock have me
howling and panting like a rabid dog?!
Lucah: You have to be hot. Fucking, hell. Merlin, be fucking hot. I know that's vain of me, but,
fuck, Jamie.
Jamie: I'm hot *sunglasses smiley emoji*

Lucah: I knew it!
Lucah: Pardon me as I reacclimatise with owning external limbs and fetch a glass of water.
*panting emoji*
Harry chuckled as he cast a Cleaning Charm and pulled up his bottoms. He was parched himself, a
thin layer of sweat coating his skin. He'd made it down to the kitchen and was taking a drink of
water when he heard his phone ping from upstairs. He hurried up as best as he could, his breathing
laboured as the post-climax exhaustion took hold. Gods, he felt old.
Lucah
Today 9:23 PM
Lucah: Fuck. Pillow talk will have to wait. It appears my friend is in a bit of a crisis. If I don't get
back to you tonight, I sincerely apologise, but I could be in for a long one.
Jamie: It's alright. No problem.
Lucah: Tonight was a treat. Best not quite fuck I've had in years.
Lucah: If you don't hear from me in 24 hours, send the hounds. This might get ugly.
Jamie: Lol. Alright. Talk to you later, Lucah.
Lucah: Give that cock a kiss for me. *lipstick-kiss emoji*
BANG BANG BANG!
Harry jolted at the sound of pounding at the front door. He heard the door open and close.
"Harry! Harry?! You better fucking be here!"
"Fuck," Harry breathed, grabbing a vest from his drawer and tugging it on.
"Up here," he called, stepping out into the hall and rounding the corner to find an extremely
flustered, pacing Ronald Weasely.
Harry descended the stairs, waiting for Ron to speak first. He continued his pacing, hand covering
his face. Harry could see the red tinge of his ears.
When Ron didn't say anything, Harry said, "That bad?"
Ron lifted his other hand, waving it aimlessly as he shook his head.
"Ron, you're scaring me."
He finally stopped pacing and met Harry's eyes.
"It's Pansy Parkinson."
"What?" asked Harry, confused.

"Violet. Is Pansy."
"Oh. OH!"
"Yeah, fuckin', Oh!" Ron turned towards the kitchen. "I need a drink. You got Firewhisky?"
"Er, yeah."
Harry followed. Ron leaned against the counter while Harry opened the cupboard above the stove,
grabbing the bottle of whisky and setting it on the counter in front of Ron. He turned to grab a
couple of glasses from the shelf, and when he turned back, Ron was already drinking straight from
the bottle.
"Alright, then," said Harry, placing them back on the shelf.
Ron gasped and coughed as he set down the bottle. "Ugh! Fuckin' burns, that shit."
"It's Firewhisky, Ron."
"Mate."
Harry leaned on the counter across from Ron. "Yeah?"
"I'm in love with Pansy Fucking Parkinson."
Harry couldn't help it. He laughed. Be it from exhaustion and far too little blood or oxygen having
made its way back to his brain, but he only laughed harder.
"Glad you're amused," said Ron sharply.
"I'm sorry," said Harry, wiping his eyes. "I just…wow. That's…something."
"Got it in one."
"So. What happened?"
Ron rubbed his forehead as he stared at the bottle of whisky. "It was amazing." He looked up.
"She's amazing."
"Isn't that…good?"
"Yeah."
"Ron. I don't understand. If it was good, why all of," Harry gestured at Ron, "this?"
"Harry. You're telling me that if you found out you were talking to…Draco Malfoy. Head over
heels for the bloke. Met him, had the most amazing time and went back home. You wouldn't have
a delayed fucking breakdown?"
"Draco Malfoy?!"
"Don't get your knickers in a twist. It's just an example."
Harry's cheeks were flaming. He thought of Lucah and what had just passed between them not
even a half-hour before. It was true, Lucah could be anyone, and he was Harry's age. They hadn't
talked much about school, and he didn't know if Lucah even went to Hogwarts. If Ron had been in
Egypt and matched with a girl from England, that meant Harry could be talking to some bloke
from…Timbuktu for all he knew.
"Draco Malfoy," Harry chuckled nervously. "No. You're right. I would freak the fuck out. Carry
on."
"Harry." Ron's blue eyes were shining with a mixture of anxiety and joy. "This is the barmiest…I
mean, what do you reckon? She looks different, you know. Grew out of that pug nose." Ron hit
himself on the forehead. "A fucking pug!"
"So, what was her reaction?"
"I was sitting at the bar, waiting for our table. And this girl walks in. Stunning. I mean, fuck Harry.
Had the little red sweater on her arm Violet said she'd be wearing. When she saw me. God, I've
never seen eyes that wide."
"Then what?"
"What do you think? Bloody snorted gin up my nose. Still burns like hell. Spat it all over the poor
bloke next to me. It was a mess, Harry."
Ron's eyes were growing heavy. The liquor was getting to him.
"I'd thought she'd left. Saw my sorry arse and split. But no. She came up behind me with napkins,
apologising to the man. Said she couldn't take me anywhere. Me!"
"Wow, that's…"
"I'm dreaming, Harry. It was a dream."
"Not a dream, Ron," said Harry, patting his shoulder.
"She smiled at me and like…my body went numb and then on fire? At the same time? Does that
even make sense? No sense. Nope."
Ron was starting to wobble on his feet, and Harry held him steady.
"I think it's time for bed, mate. I'll put you up in one of the other rooms. No way am I letting you
go home like this."
"Gave up the…reser…revesation. Reservation. Ended up at a chip van. A van, Harry. She was
dressed to the nines, and we're eatin' mushy peas and chips on the curb."
"Sounds nice," said Harry, leading Ron up the stairs.
Ron smiled at him dreamily. "Was nice, wun' it? Nice hair. Her hair's nice. Her lips too."
"I'm sure they are."
He let Ron flop onto the bed, and Harry pulled off his boots, then slipped his arms out of his
jacket. Within a few minutes, Ron was snoring. Harry shook his head as he tossed a blanket over
him and turned off the light.
Chapter 4
Saturday, 27th June
"Sorry, I'm late! Had…er. Stuff."
Harry tied his apron haphazardly as he approached a sour-faced Sean.
"Stuff? What stuff couldn't be dealt with after work?" he asked.
"Er…"
Ron had gotten sick at some point in the night, expelling what had to be the entire contents of his
stomach all over the bathroom floor. Next to the toilet. It was easy enough to clean up, but Ron was
hungover and still a bit drunk. Harry had washed and dressed him, escorting him back to the
Burrow, where Molly lost her mind with worry, leaving Harry spending twenty minutes convincing
her that Ron was fine and he'd only had a bit too much to drink.
"It's fine. Shit happens," said Sean, shrugging. "You'll be making beverages on your own today.
Think you can manage the espresso machine without proper adult supervision?"
Harry smirked. "I think I can handle it."
He'd had three shifts that week and was getting the hang of all the different combinations of coffee
he'd never even dreamed of. Americano. Long Black. Cappuccino. Flat White. Pour over. Double-
Shot Skinny Mocha with extra syrup, whip cream, and cocoa nibs.
The clientele were mostly university students, as was to be expected, but the occasional
businessman would stop in early at the opening time before work or on the lunch hour. Whenever
he saw a man his age, he couldn't help but think of Lucah. What did he look like? Was he brunet or
maybe blond? Thin and lanky, or perhaps a bit heavy set?
Harry didn't think he cared that much, but he imagined Lucah as some sexy posh bloke who wore a
three-piece suit at the grocers. Harry, on the other hand, was as much of a disaster as his hair. He
looked down at his ill-fitting shirts and too large jeans. He decided it was time to upgrade his
wardrobe.
After his shift, he called Hermione.
"I need new clothes."
"Oh, my God, Harry. Yes! Where are you? When are we going?"
Harry laughed. "Just got done with work. Treat you to a late lunch?"
"Give me twenty minutes, and I'm there! Just have to tell Viktor I won't be home for a while."
"Home?" asked Harry.
"Yes. We're living together. Okay, I'll see you there!"
"See you."
Harry decided to walk to the café, as it was only about fifteen minutes away and the weather was
surprisingly warm. He felt guilty about not having checked his messages from Lucah, what with
dealing with Ron and Molly, then barrelling into work.
Lucah
Today 10:58 AM
Lucah: Well, that was an experience like none I ever would have anticipated. Do you have female
friends? If you do, get rid of them immediately.
Today 2:17 PM
Jamie: Why? What happened?
Lucah: My life has become a romantic comedy. Or rather Daisy's life specifically. I don't think I
have the energy to go into detail, but what I can tell you is that my life has become either
significantly more interesting or insufferable.
Jamie: That sounds…
Jamie: I'm not sure what to say to that.
Lucah: Forget it. That's all her business, and I'm just an innocent bystander. I'd much rather spend
time recalling what happened before my life became a telenovela.
Jamie: Yeah? Which was?
Lucah: You were there…
Jamie: Oh…that.
Lucah: Yes. Just that little thing.
Jamie: Thanks. I'm walking down a crowded street in the middle of Muggle London with an
erection.
Lucah: Oh? You're in London?
Jamie: Yeah
Lucah: As in. You live there?
Jamie: Yes
Lucah: How…convenient.
Jamie: ???
Lucah: I may or may not also reside in London.

Harry stopped in his tracks, and a woman bumped into him. He apologised as she glared at him,
and he ducked under the awning of a nearby shop. Lucah lived in England. In London. Harry's
heart was doing somersaults as the muscles in his cheeks ached from suppressing a smile.
Lucah
Jamie: That's brilliant.
Lucah: Yes. Quite.
Jamie: So
Jamie: That makes things pretty easy.
Lucah: Indeed it does.
Jamie: When the time comes.
Lucah: When the time comes.
Harry looked up and realised he was standing in front of the café, Hermione walking towards him,
waving animatedly.
Lucah
Jamie: Sorry, meeting a friend for a late lunch and then doing some shopping. I'll message you
later?
Lucah: Sounds lovely. Have fun.
Jamie: ttyl *hand-wave emoji*
Lucah: Ttyl? That's a first. Look at you go!
Jamie: Thank my teens. *finger-point-left emoji* x 2
Delivered
"Hi, Harry!" said Hermione, beaming. "Shall we?"
Harry nodded, opening the door for her. They took their seats at their table and placed their usual
order.
Hermione smirked at Harry. "So. Why this sudden interest in clothes?"
Harry cleared his throat. "I don't know. I need them, don't I?"
"Desperately."
"Thanks, Hermione."
She raised her hands. "Hey, you asked."
"Lucah lives in London."
Her brown eyes widened. "What? He told you?"
"I mentioned that I was on my way here. Then he told me."
"Well, that's amazing news, isn't it?" she asked. "You can actually meet. That is, if you want to
meet him."
"Hermione. I'm dying to meet this bloke," he said. "I even asked him the other day, and he said he
wanted to but needed some time. I…I really like him."
She covered her mouth with her hand. "Oh, Harry. That's so…"
"I know. As sweet and fluffy as candy floss," Harry smirked. "I've made so many changes, and
already I can feel how much happier I am. Sure, my job's alright, but Lucah…" A blush spread
across his cheeks as he looked down at his shirt.
"You want to look good for him?" asked Hermione knowingly.
"Is that…wrong?"
"If it would help with your confidence, you absolutely should pick out some new clothes. And this
wouldn't be for him, Harry. It's for you. If you're happy, comfortable, and confident, he'll take
notice. But what's most important is how you feel."
"So," Hermione started as their plates were set before them. "What do you picture as a first date?"
"I'm not sure. I never liked fancy dinners or going to a bar. I don't know, Hermione. I don't know
what I'm doing!"
Harry rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the tension building at his nape. The last thing he
wanted was to be a disappointment for Lucah.
"You said he wanted time, yes?"
Harry nodded.
"Well, why don't you invite him to Neville's 40th Birthday?"
"Ugh. Don't remind me," groaned Harry. "You know his birthday is a day before mine, right?
That's about a month from now."
"Don't you remember? It's next Saturday. Luna, Neville, and Rowena are travelling abroad for the
remainder of the summer, but Luna couldn't pass up an opportunity to throw a party. It would be
out of the public eye. With your friends. Unfortunately, Viktor and I will be visiting his parents in
Bulgaria, but you'll have Neville, Luna, Dean, Seamus, and Ron, of course."
"I'll think about it," said Harry.
"Wonderful. We'll have to get you something special to wear to the party."
"We'll see."
-----
Harry tossed all the new bags of clothes on the floor of his room. He immediately opened the
wardrobe and drawers, tossing nearly every item he owned into a bin. Harry paused, looking down
at the tiny piece of green cloth at the bottom of his drawer. He took it in his hand, running his
thumb across the smooth fabric. It was the piece of Draco's Quidditch robes that had caught on
Harry's broomstick. He couldn't believe it was still there after all that time.
Harry didn't know why he kept it. Or why he'd carried it around in his pocket those last few years
at school. It wasn't like he was going to try and give it back to Draco. What use did he have for it?
Yet, Harry found comfort in rubbing his fingers across the fabric when he had a particularly
difficult day. He continued carrying it during the year following the war while moping around at
Grimmauld Place. Perhaps it was a reminder of intense emotions that were anything but happiness.
Harry put it back and closed the drawer.
-----
Sunday, 28th June
"We're going to Neville's birthday party," said Pansy, handing Draco a cup of tea and another to
Ron.
"How lovely for you."
Since Pansy had a new boyfriend, Draco expected to see far less of her. He had been wrong.
So that was how Draco Malfoy found himself having afternoon tea with Ronald Weasley.
"Don't you have a flat, Pansy?" said Draco, taking a sip, shifting awkwardly in his chair.
She climbed into Ron's lap, and Draco had to look away. The happiness that radiated between the
couple was too much for Draco to bear.
"I'd like for you to come with us and get to know Ron's friends better," said Pansy, running her
fingers through Ron's hair. The man looked on the verge of purring, and Draco's stomach turned.
"We do know them."
"Yes. From over twenty years ago. We've changed, and so have they."
Draco scowled. "If I must."
"Yes, you must," she exclaimed before perking up. "Why don't you invite Jamie? You said he lives
in London."
Ron choked on his tea. "J-Jamie?"
Pansy patted his back, face full of concern. "Are you alright, love?"
"Brilliant," he croaked, clearing his throat. "So. Er. Who's Jamie?"
"Practically Draco's boyfriend."
"He is not my boyfriend."
"They've been talking for a while now. On Fate. But they haven't met met yet," she told Ron
before turning to Draco. "You should invite him."
"Have they, now?" asked Ron, his voice a bit higher than usual.
"It's been positively adorable to watch," she said breathily, swooning against Ron.
"Er, Pans," said Ron, shifting beneath her. "I think we should get going. I have a thing."
"A thing?" she asked.
"Just. Please. We've imposed on Malfoy long enough, don't you think? Right, Malfoy?"
"Indeed, you have."
Pansy got to her feet and gathered her bag. She walked over to pat Draco on the cheek. "Just think
about it, alright? You two could be miserable there together."
"See you, Malfoy," said Ron, opening the door. Pansy followed him outside.
As Draco placed the teacups in the sink, he could have sworn he heard a high pitched shriek from
outside the door.
-----
Wednesday, 1st July
"Dad!"
Harry opened his arms, and Lily came running into them, her small arms clutching at his waist.
"You never come," she said, face buried in his chest.
He kissed her on the head. "I've got the time now, don't I? I promise you'll be seeing a lot more of
me." Harry smiled as James approached with their trunks.
"So. We'll expect O's on your OWLs?" Harry teased.
"Hah. Good one, Dad," said James, rolling his eyes.
Harry pulled James in for a sidearm hug against Lily. "Missed you, buddy."
"Yeah. You too, Dad."
Harry looked up, eyes dancing around the platform, searching all the surrounding faces. "Where's
your brother?"
Lily pulled back. "Saying bye to Scorpius, I think." She lifted a hand to point. Sure enough, Albus
was laughing and talking animatedly with a white-blond boy. He was handsome with kind, bright
eyes, smiling in a way that Harry wouldn't have expected. Then it clicked, as Harry thought he'd
heard the boy's name mentioned before.
"Scorpius Malfoy?"
"Yeah, Dad. They're best friends," said Lily.
"Recently?"
"Hah. No. Since Al started at school. You seriously didn't know?" asked James.
This was the end of Albus' third year, and Harry was embarrassed to say he hadn't.
The two boys had said their goodbyes, Albus running towards them as Scorpius turned in the other
direction. Harry followed the blond boy's back as he ran up to a tall, blond man just down the
platform. Harry's breath hitched. He'd thought it was Lucius, but the man had died in Azkaban
nearly ten years ago. The man smiled and hugged Scorpius. His long hair was loosely tied behind
his neck.
It was Draco.
Harry hadn't realised he was staring until the man lifted his head, catching Harry's eye. His gaze
was cold, and he quickly looked back at his son, his smile returning with full force, eyes reflecting
the kindness Harry had seen in the boy's moments before. Draco picked up Scorpius' trunk, and the
two made their way together towards the exit.
"Earth to Dad," said Lily. "We're ready!"
Harry blinked, looking down at his daughter and then to James and Albus, their trunks and owl
cages in hand.
"Right," he said, clearing his throat. "Let's go."
-----
"Wow, this place is amazing!" said Albus, dashing in and out of the rooms at number twelve. "I
can't believe you've never brought us here before!"
"You wouldn't have wanted to, believe me," said Harry, turning on the hob to heat the frying pan.
"It was quite nasty."
"It's sort of creepy," said Lily next to her father, placing the head of broccoli on the cutting board
for Harry to chop.
"You're not wrong," said Harry, smiling down at her. "But I promise I chased off all the ghouls."
Lily's face paled. "There were ghouls?!"
"Don't listen to him, Lil," said James, leaning against the counter with his Muggle game console.
"He's just trying to scare you."
"Wow! Look at this library!" echoed Albus' voice from down the hall. "It's huge! Might have more
books than Hogwarts even!"
Lily perked up at her brother's exclamation. His two youngest loved to read, while James, on the
other hand…liked his video games.
"Have a good Quidditch season, James? I'm sorry I haven't been able to attend any this year. I
promise that's going to change."
James looked up from his game, smiling at his dad. "I'd really like that. And it went alright.
Ravenclaw's Keeper is really good, so we had to rely on catching the Snitch early if we wanted any
chance of winning. We didn't make it to the final, but there's always next year."
Harry nodded. "I miss Quidditch," said Harry. "Hell. I just miss flying."
"Maybe we could fly together some this summer," said James. "You know, mum always said you
were amazing back in school. The Cannons happen to be in the market for a new Seeker. Ever
thought of playing for real? I mean. You've got the time. Uncle Ron would lose his shit."
"I don't know about that," chuckled Harry, tossing the vegetables. "But I'd love to go flying with
you, James. It really has been ages."
"Dad, do you mind if we take a couple of these home with us?" asked Lily.
Harry laughed at the stack of books in both Lily and Albus' arms. "A couple?"
Albus gave him an awkward shrug, his movement limited by the weight of the books. Harry pulled
out his wand, and the books flew from their hands, dropping them into a Conjured bag for them to
transport.
"Just be sure to bring them back," said Harry. "I know where you live." He winked, and Lily
giggled.
Harry filled four plates with one of his newfound favourites, teriyaki stir-fry, placing them in front
of each of his children.
James' eyes widened. "You…cook?"
Harry shrugged, tossing a towel over his shoulder. "I guess I do now."
"Wicked," said Albus. "Mum never made us anything like this. It's usually at Scorpius' that I get
something this good."
This piqued Harry's interest. "I can't believe I didn't know you and Scorpius Malfoy were friends."
"Why are you saying his full name like that?"
"Sorry," said Harry, grasping for any explanation that wasn't anything to do with the boy's father.
"Auror habit."
Albus nodded. "Yeah, he's great."
"I'm sure he is," said Harry. "So you know his dad, then?"
"Yeah. He's really nice."
A chill ran down his spine at the thought of his own flesh and blood finding anything regarding
Draco Malfoy remotely pleasant.
"Well, eat up. I've got to get you home by eight. Your mum should be home by then."
"Dad," said Lily softly. "Are you…lonely without Mum?"
Harry's chest tightened as he looked at his daughter's worried expression. "I am a bit, but I've been
spending time with Ron and Hermione. Neville's birthday party is this weekend. I'm sorry to say
it's adults only."
"That's alright," said Albus. "I'm just looking forward to having no homework."
"And we have all those new books to read," said Lily excitedly. "Can we get some more next time
we come over?"
"Let's see how far you get with what you have first," said Harry, smiling. "I'll be curious to know if
you find anything interesting in there."
Harry had made sure to pack away any and all tomes referencing anything regarding the Dark Arts,
knowing just how curious Albus could be. He had his father's knack for sticking his nose where it
shouldn't, but more in the way that Hermione did, seeking as much knowledge as possible,
regardless of the subject.
Albus smirked as he looked down at his plate. "I definitely have something I'm really looking
forward to reading."
-----
Jamie
Today 8:54 PM
Jamie: So your profile mentioned you'd wanted to play Quidditch professionally.
Lucah: Yes. And as it also states, it didn't quite end in my favour.
Jamie: Why? Were you rubbish?
Lucah: Excuse me?! What a question. Of course, I was the world's finest!
Jamie: I'm sure you were. *winking emoji*
Jamie: So what happened?
Lucah: It was of no fault on my account, that's for damn sure. It just…didn't work out.
Delivered
Draco had tried out for team after team for five years, none of which would take him. He knew for
a fact it wasn't due to his skill but could only find one explanation. It was always the explanation.
A past he could never outrun.
Jamie
Jamie: I'm sorry.
Lucah: I've made my peace with it. It was a long time ago.
Jamie: I'd considered it myself, but I knew it would mean travelling, and my wife did that plenty
when we were dating. I wanted to be around for the kids, and that would have made things hard. So
I went the career route.
Jamie: Which, in the end, took up even more of my time. Sometimes I regret it.
Lucah: It's never too late, you know.
Jamie: That's what my son said. I'm definitely not in any shape to consider it.
Lucah: If you put in the effort, anything is possible.
Jamie: Says the man who'd never managed it…
Lucah: Forget peace. Let's just say I'm extremely keen on living vicariously through you in the
matter.
Jamie: Maybe… *thinking emoji*
Jamie: So I wanted to ask, but you can always say no.
Lucah: No.
Lucah: I'm joking. What's your question? *hearts-smiley emoji*
Jamie: My friends are having a party this Saturday? I was wondering if you'd like to come with
me.
Lucah: As lovely as that sounds, Jamie, regretfully I will be otherwise engaged. Another little
thing I'll be dragged around to by Daisy and her new beau.
Jamie: Oh. That's okay.
Lucah: Are you free the following Saturday?
Jamie: Yes! I mean. Yes.
Jamie: That would be brilliant. *excited-smiley emoji*
Lucah: Lovely.
Lucah: Now, to distract myself from the crippling anxiety regarding our future meeting…
Lucah: How was your day off?

Jamie: No problem. Great. Picked up the kids from the school train. Merlin, I've missed them.
Lucah: Train? Then am I to assume that they attend Hogwarts?
Jamie: Yeah. They do.
Lucah: My son as well.
Jamie: Really?
Jamie: So what you're saying is, we could have been standing a metre from each other, and we
would never have known?
Lucah: Quite possibly, yes.
Jamie: Did you go to Hogwarts?
Lucah: I did. And you?
Jamie: Yeah.
Draco's heart was pounding in his chest. Jamie and Draco were close to the same age, and they
very well could have been in the same year at school. He wasn't sure what to do with this new
information, but Draco knew he wasn't ready to come clean. Not yet.
-----
Lucah
Jamie: So…what house were you in?
Lucah: I don't think I'm prepared to answer that question. Nor should you.
Jamie: So, no more talk about school then?
Lucah: For the best, I'd think. As I've recently been told, twenty years is a long time, and we have
all changed, but it can be hard to see without experiencing it first hand.
Lucah: Believe me. I'm experiencing it first hand at this very moment.
Lucah: I would hate for pre-existing expectations or assumptions of myself to tarnish the rose-
coloured picture you've painted of me.
Jamie: Why? Were you a bad boy in school?
Lucah: No comment.
Lucah: But I can be a bad boy right now if you like.

Jamie: Oh, really?
Lucah: Can you just imagine what it will be like to actually fuck me?
Jamie: Shit. Lucah!
Lucah: Jamie!
Lucah: That was a moan, by the way. You can hear that, can't you?
Lucah: Jamie, yes! Harder!
Lucah: Fuck me! Fill me!
Lucah: Daddy, yes!
Lucah: *peach-water-aubergine-panting emojis*
Harry was so glad the kids had already gone home because the groans that escaped him were
positively feral as he wanked himself to completion. In a week and a half they would finally meet.
Harry was losing his mind. Then there was the small thing regarding Harry's…inexperience in the
gay sex department.
Harry let himself sink into his pillow, breathing slowly as his orgasm ebbed. His eyes were heavy
and ready for sleep.
Lucah
Today 9:43 PM
Jamie: Lucah.
Lucah: Yes, darling?
Jamie: I've never…
Jamie: I've never dated a guy before. So I haven't. Um. I'm not exactly…
Jamie: I've never had sex with a bloke. Or anything remotely sexy for that matter.
Lucah: That's alright. I'd expected as much.
Lucah: You don't have to be nervous. There's no rush.
Lucah: I swear. We don't even have to take things there until you are ready.
Lucah: If you're ready.
Jamie: Lucah, I've been ready for weeks now.

Lucah: But it's only been 10 days!
Jamie: No way. Really? Fuck, it's felt like ages.
Lucah: I know what you mean.
Lucah: Don't worry. I'll take care of you, darling.
Jamie: I trust you.
Lucah: I trust you too.
-----
During the rest of the week, Harry was a jittery mess. When he and Lucah finally met, was sex
expected? Or would that come later? Lucah had clearly put the ball in Harry's pitch, but he wasn't
quite sure which game he was prepared to play. Lucah made Harry feel more than he'd ever felt
before—laughter, happiness, anxiety, giddiness, embarrassment, admiration.
Harry wanted to be everything Lucah deserved. He hoped he would be enough. He knew Lucah
was exactly the sort of guy he could see himself with: blunt and rash, but also funny and clever—
not to mention the world's biggest tease.
Harry loved it, and Harry loved Lucah—but he wasn't ready to admit it.
-----
Saturday, 4th July
Lucah
Today 5:53 PM
Jamie: Hope you have fun today with Daisy and company.
Lucah: Thank you. My hopes are not high, but I will put in an effort for her sake.
Lucah: I do wish I could have come with you.
Jamie: Don't worry. You'll come with me later. *winking-kiss emoji*
Lucah: Promise?
Jamie: Promise.
Delivered
-----
"Harry, you made it!" Ron clapped him on the shoulder. "Pansy is grabbing us drinks. What would
you like?"
"Uh. Whatever is fine."
Ron's smile turned mischievous. "Dangerous words, my good sir."
Harry let out a grunt of pain as Ron's hand crushed his shoulder.
"Ron, what the—"
"Hi, Harry!" said Pansy, four drinks floating in front of her. "Gin and tonic, alright? I can get you
something else."
"No, this is good," he grabbed a glass from the air, staring down at its contents. "Thanks, Pans."
"I promise it hasn't been poisoned," she teased, though with a sharp edge to her voice.
"'Course not," said Harry, taking a large swig of the drink.
Harry liked Pansy. A lot. But it would still take some getting used to.
Pansy turned to look over her shoulder. "Draco! Over here, darling!"
Harry stiffened. He watched in awe as the tall blond man appeared in the doorway and walked
towards them. Seeing him up close, Harry could see that Draco still had his sharp, pointed features,
lean and fit physique, though he had to have grown at least ten centimetres since school. And his
hair. It was braided loosely against his shoulder—white gold and shimmering in the dim lighting.
If he let it down, it would definitely fall to the small of his back. Harry's chest tightened,
embarrassed to be so completely enchanted by a man's hair.
"I am not a dog to be summoned," Draco hissed at Pansy.
She smacked him on the arm, placing a glass in his hand. "Behave yourself. This is a party. We're
here to have fun."
Draco rolled his eyes as he took a sip. "I'll do as I like, thank you very much."
Then Pansy smiled, looking at Harry. "You remember Harry, don't you, Draco?"
Harry's mouth went dry as he met the steely gaze of Draco Malfoy. He tried to swallow, but his
throat felt raw. He took another drink, tearing his eyes away.
"Malfoy," he murmured in an awkward greeting.
Ron shifted beside Harry. "Uh, ahem," he coughed. "Pansy, want to help me with something in the
kitchen?"
Her eyes sparkled as her smile broadened at her boyfriend. "Yes, of course," she replied.
"Apologies, gentlemen," she said unapologetically. "We'll be back shortly. Think you can manage
to avoid killing each other while we're gone?"
"Don't be so dramatic, Pans," said Draco flatly. "I've survived Potter's efforts in the past."
Harry choked on his drink. Leave it to Draco to bring up old wounds—literally. Harry's eyes
dropped to his chest, imagining the Sectumsempra scars that might be lying beneath his shirt.
Pansy tapped Draco on the cheek, a bit too hard. "What did I say about behaving? I apologise for
his rudeness, Harry," she said kindly to Harry, shooting a glare at Draco. "We'll be right back."
The two men stood in silence, the tension palpable as Harry cleared his throat. "I didn't. I didn't
mean…" he started sheepishly, staring at his feet like a bloody coward.
"Save your breath, Potter. I know," said Draco coldly before taking another drink.
Harry followed suit. He needed more liquor in his system. Draco Bloody Malfoy was standing next
to him, within arms reach. Not only was Harry uncomfortable sharing personal space with his
childhood nemesis, he was painfully aware of how hot as fuck he was—with his long hair, silver
eyes, sharp features, tailored shirt and trousers, which left nothing to the imagination whatsoever.
When Draco did not attempt to speak, Harry broke the silence. "You…er. Look good."
Draco's eyebrows lifted before eyeing Harry up and down. "Shockingly, you look mildly
presentable yourself."
"Thanks…I guess?"
Draco looked away, his eyes darting around the room. "And where is darling Ginevra?" asked
Draco, his tone cutting as he spoke Ginny's name.
The nape of Harry's neck tingled. "Wales, I think? Not sure."
"You don't know?" asked Draco in disbelief.
Harry shrugged. "No."
Draco frowned but did not press further.
"So," said Harry. "Al is friends with Scorpius."
"Yes, he is," said Draco stiffly. "Is that a problem?"
"No! I just. I didn't know, is all. I'm sure he's great."
"The best," Draco whispered, taking another drink.
All the other guests were chatting animatedly, yet Harry couldn't find the strength to pull himself
away, excruciatingly awkward conversation or not.
"So," said Harry. "Ron and Pansy. Wild, right?"
"A sin against nature."
"I wouldn't go that far," said Harry. "They seem good together."
"Yes, of course, it could only be good. No relationship could ever equal the perfection that is
Potter and Weasley."
Harry forced a laugh. "What?"

"Oh, come now, Potter. Don't act like you don't look down on the little people while you bask in
your perfect little life, oh, 'Chosen One'."
Harry's jaw clenched. "My life is far from perfect, Malfoy."
Draco scoffed, raising his glass to his lips.
"Ginny and I are getting a divorce. Should be finalised any day now," said Harry stiffly.
Draco paused before lowering his glass. "Pardon?"
"Yeah. So don't talk about things you don't understand, Malfoy," Harry spat, poking him in the
chest. "We haven't seen each other in…what? Twenty years? You don't know me any more than I
know you. Not anymore."
"Oh, but I can hazard a guess," said Draco, a bit playfully. Draco's posture had relaxed, the energy
between them a bit less tense. Harry relaxed too. "Just because your marriage fell to ruins doesn't
mean you don't still have your perfect career. Head of the Department of Law Enforcement. How
fitting."
Harry smirked. "Strike two, Malfoy. I resigned two months ago."
Harry had never seen such genuine shock on Draco's face before. "Surely you're having a laugh."
"I'm not."
Draco gaped at him. "That is positively preposterous. What on Earth would Harry Potter, Saviour
of the Wizarding World, do otherwise?"
"I work in a coffee shop."
Draco dropped his glass.
-----
Draco cast a Repairing Charm, and the glass flew up into his hands. He held it out for Harry,
taking the man's still half-full glass in return, gulping down its contents.
"Apologies. I'm a bit clumsy at the moment. Too much to drink. Please excuse me." Draco all but
dashed away, leaving Harry confused and blinking.
Draco searched every room, finally finding Pansy pressed up against Ron, snogging in the
entryway. Draco cleared his throat loudly. The two broke the kiss, staring dumbfounded at the red-
faced and shaking Draco Malfoy.
"You," Draco pointed at Pansy. "With me. You," He pointed at Ron. "Out of my sight."
"Draco!" hissed Pansy. "Don't be rude!"
"It's okay, love. I can take a hint. Come find me later." Ron kissed the crown of her head before
winking at Draco. "Whew. Crazy night, am I right?"
Draco's cheeks burned hotter. He grabbed Pansy's hand, opening the front door and dragging her
outside.
"What is this all abo—"
"I've been talking to Harry Fucking Potter!"
Pansy winced before smiling awkwardly. "Yes?"
"Wait. What?" asked Draco, blinking at her as he registered what she had said. His nostrils flared.
"You knew?!"
"I'm sorry!" she shouted, raising her hands in defence. "Ron figured it out when we mentioned
Jamie."
"Weasley knows?!" Draco started to pace, raking his fingers through his hair before tossing his
hands in exasperation. "This is an absolute nightmare. This can't be my life."
"I wanted to tell you, but…well. I didn't want to ruin anything."
"Ruin anything?" Draco let out a forced laugh. "Pansy, It's been ruined! Fuck. Twenty years
ruined! When he finds out, he'll be disgusted!"
"I'm not so sure," said Pansy, chewing her lip. "Ron says he's rather mad for Lucah and doesn't care
who he is."
"Easy for Potter to say when he knows nothing!"
Pansy's mouth quirked into a half-smile. "I see you're not averse to the idea."
Draco stopped pacing. "I. What? No. I can't. It's Potter, Pans."
Pansy's smile broadened. "It's Potter, Draco. And he's in there. Right now."
Draco gaped at her. His heart was pounding, ready to burst from his chest. He had goosebumps
across his skin, and the butterflies he'd so violently forced down were dancing the tango.
"I can't," he breathed.
"You don't have to tell him, Draco. Just. Let him warm up to you a bit? Ease the blow when he
does find out."
"Thank you, Pansy," he said sarcastically. "Fabulous suggestion. Perhaps he would wish death
upon me to a far less violent degree."
"Stop it," she snapped, pointing her finger as if scolding a small child. "You have no way to know
how he'll react."
'You don't know me any more than I know you,' Harry had said. 'Not anymore.'
"You're right. I don't." Draco sucked in a deep breath. After a few more minutes of silent pacing—
and a strong desire to Apparate home and lock himself away until death took him—Draco let out a
shuddering sigh. "I can't believe I'm doing this. Fuck, I need a drink. No. Make it seven."
He shot one last glare at the smirking Pansy as he opened the front door, taking his first step
towards his demise.
-----
Harry kept staring at the doorway through which Draco had disappeared, bewildered. Draco's face
had gone a shade of pale Harry hadn't known was possible. To have run off so clearly disgruntled,
he was obviously disturbed by Harry's Muggle profession.
Harry huffed. If there was any chance of being civil to one another, that Portkey had vanished a
long time ago, and Harry refused to let the elitist git look down on him. There was a twinge of
discomfort as Harry thought of Ron and Pansy and what sort of strain it would be having their best
friends at odds. In all honesty, what had they expected?
And why did Draco have to be so hot? It was clearly the alcohol muddling his brain.
Harry looked around the room. Dean and Seamus were talking to Susan Bones and Ernie
Macmillan, and the last thing Harry wanted was another awkward conversation explaining his
newfound 'situation'. He ducked into a vacant hallway, taking a deep breath as he leaned against
the wall.
"Ah, there you are."
Harry turned his head towards the voice as Ron approached, drink in hand.
"Here you go, mate," said Ron, smirking as he handed Harry a glass of amber liquid.
Harry knew that smirk. The bastard was up to something. He looked down at the cup, gawking at
the near overflowing glass of Firewhisky.
"What's this for?" asked Harry.
"Best down it in one," said Ron. "Trust me, mate. You'll need it."
Harry pulled a face. "Are you mental? There have to be six shots in here."
Ron placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, meeting his eyes. "Harry. Drink the whisky."
Harry's brow furrowed. "I'd be pissed after this. We aren't in our twenties anymore, Ron. I'd splinch
myself trying to get home, and you know Neville and Luna don't have a fireplace."
"We'll make sure you're properly taken care of, alright?" said Ron, tapping his shoulder before
dropping his hand. "Just relax and…have some fun. You deserve it. You don't work tomorrow,
right?"
Harry shook his head. "Off."
"Brilliant. Now be a good boy and drink," said Ron, tapping Harry's cheek.
Harry glared at him. "Half."
Ron shrugged. "Fine."
With a final bout of courage, Harry took two large gulps of the whisky. He nearly spilled the
remnants as he started coughing, and Ron clapped him on the back, taking the glass from his
hands.
"That a boy," said Ron, tapping and rubbing his back

Harry's throat was burning. "Shit's awful," he said, wiping his mouth. His head was already starting
to spin. He'd attend DA pub nights on occasion, but Harry only ever had a few Butterbeers at most.
"If I get sick, it's your turn to clean up," said Harry, massaging his brow.
Ron laughed. "You got it, mate."
"Ahem."
Harry looked up, finding Draco was standing in front of him. Ron was smirking at Draco, and the
man's jaw clenched. He wiggled the half-empty whisky glass in front of Draco's nose. The blond
shot him a venomous glare before snatching it from Ron's grasp. Draco tossed it back, coughing
and sputtering even more than Harry had. Ron mirrored his concern, patting Draco's back.
"That's it, mate," said Ron.
He turned and winked at Harry before walking away, leaving an increasingly inebriated Harry once
again in the company of Draco Malfoy.
"Here to have another laugh, Malfoy?" said Harry harshly, his stomach twisting from the alcohol
and nerves.
Draco blushed. Blushed.
"No, I'm not." He sounded desperate, which caught Harry off guard. "I apologise for running off so
abruptly. It was rude of me," he continued. "I had a sudden urge to…erm…use the facilities. Did
not mean to alarm."
"Facilities?" asked Harry, blinking lazily. "Ah. Loo. You can just say loo, Malfoy."
"Mm," he replied nondescriptly, not looking at Harry.
Harry found himself staring at the sharp line of Draco's nose, his jaw, then down to his wet, red
lips. They looked so kissable, and Harry cursed himself for even thinking about it.
'Remember Lucah?' he thought to himself. 'Don't go getting all jelly-legged because some bloke
you used to fancy happens to be standing right in front of you.'
But Gods, Draco was fit, and Harry was definitely drunk. Harry smiled as his gaze travelled the
length of Draco's hair, a bit more dishevelled than when he first saw him, the braid loose against
his shoulder. It looked soft.
"Gorgeous," said Harry, raising his hand to touch it.
Draco grabbed his wrist. "I know."
Both men looked down at Draco's slim fingers wrapped around Harry's arm. He didn't let go, and
Harry didn't pull away.
"It's like…Elsa," Harry murmured, looking back up at Draco.
"Excuse me?" Draco curved an eyebrow as his mouth curled up at the corner.
"Ice Queen. You know. The song."
"Merlin, you're not going to start singing, are you?" asked Draco, amused.
Harry grinned and took a deep breath. "Let it go! Let it g—"
Draco stepped forward, using his other hand to cover Harry's mouth. They were so close, with only
Harry's arm separating them. Green eyes locked with silver, and Harry could feel the heat of
Draco's breath on his face. Draco's pupils were dilated, and Harry's mouth fell open slightly, lips
brushing against the man's palm. Harry took a step back, finally ripping his hand from Draco's
hold.
"I can't," Harry whispered.
Draco's brow furrowed. "Can't what, Potter?"
Harry wobbled, and Draco grabbed him by the biceps, holding him steady. "Harry, are you alright?
Do you need to sit down?"
Harry blinked at Draco as if he'd never seen the man before. "You…called me Harry."
"Apologies. Shall I resume your globally celebrated title of Scarhead?"
Harry barked out a laugh before squinting shrewdly at the blond. "What are you up to, Malfoy?"
"Up to?" asked Draco, a blush returning to his cheeks.
"Yeah. You're always up to something."
Harry's skin felt hot where Draco grasped his arms, his heartbeat quickening as he found it harder
to breathe. Why was Draco so close? He hated Harry. They'd seen each other only in passing; not a
word passed between them in almost twenty years. Wasn't Draco married? But Harry didn't see a
ring. Harry's body was tense, but his stomach was fluttering. He was drunk, and it was definitely a
dream. Draco Malfoy wouldn't be here talking to Harry. Not in another twenty years. Make it two
hundred.
"Is that right?" said Draco coyly, his eyes flashing mischievously.
He slowly walked Harry back against the wall, a smirk broadening on his face. Harry felt his blood
rush to his cheeks—along with other unmentionable locations. He held his breath as Draco leaned
forward to whisper in his ear.
"Perhaps I am."
Harry's skin was on fire, and he could hear his blood pumping in his ears. Too close. Draco was
too close. Harry urged himself to push him away.
Instead, he asked aloud, "Why?"
Draco drew back, his face passive as he searched Harry's eyes. "I need to know."
Draco leaned in, brushing his lips against Harry's. He pulled back slightly, his silver eyes
questioning. Harry couldn't have stopped himself if he'd tried. His fingers knitted into Draco's hair,
and fuck if it wasn't the softest he'd ever felt. Draco's fingers grasped the nape of Harry's neck, their
mouths clashing. It was filthy and fierce, Draco's body pinning Harry against the wall, hard and
strong.
Draco's fingers were tightening in his hair to the point of pain, but Harry barely felt it. He pressed
his hips harder against Draco's, the evidence of arousal hardening against Harry's pelvis. Heat
rushed to Harry's groin, his own cock swelling against the man's slender hips. Harry was
breathless, intoxicated by Draco and the whisky all at once.
Draco broke the kiss for barely a moment to murmur, "To mine?"
Harry nodded eagerly, and with a CRACK, they Apparated into the living room of a modern flat,
but Harry didn't have a chance to acknowledge his surroundings before he was shoved through a
doorway, stumbling backwards and falling onto a large bed. Draco yanked off his own shirt before
making quick work of Harry's jeans, discarding them to the floor. Harry's cock was fully hard,
tenting his boxers. Draco grabbed the waistband, pulling them down and over his hips and onto the
floor.
Harry gasped as hot skin met cool air, unable to speak or breathe as he stared at the blond hovering
over his cock, gazing hungrily.
"Oh, Gods, yes," breathed Draco, and without hesitation, leaned forward to blow on the tip of
Harry's leaking cock.
Harry cried out, bucking his hips. Thin fingers dug into his thighs as Draco held him firmly against
the bed.
"Let me." Draco's voice was trembling, pleading as he finally met Harry's eyes.
Harry nodded before covering his face with his hands. A hot mouth engulfed his cock, tongue
rolling and swirling expertly against the tip as Draco took him in deeper. Harry writhed and
moaned as his hands flew from his face, fingers curling into the duvet, sparks of pleasure travelling
across his skin.
Harry hadn't been sucked off in years and definitely never like this. Ginny hadn't been particularly
fond, and Harry hadn't minded. But with the way Draco was sucking and moving his tongue, Harry
cursed having denied it from himself for so long.
With some difficulty, Harry lifted his head, watching in wonder as Draco bobbed on his cock, red
lips stretched around his shaft, hair draped to one side, tickling Harry's thigh. Just as he reached out
a hand to slide into Draco's hair, the blond slipped away from Harry's cock. Harry let out a groan of
disappointment.
"Don't worry, Potter. I'm not done with you yet," Draco purred, standing to kick off his trousers
and pants.
His cock bobbed freely, and Harry's eyes travelled along the shape of Draco's body, from his cock
to his narrow waist, firm stomach and hairless chest. There were no scars that Harry could see. He
traced the curve of Draco's throat, thinking of how much he wanted to bury his face against it,
kissing and nibbling down to his shoulders.
Draco raised his hands to tie his hair back, but Harry held up his hand. "Don't."
Draco hesitated but smiled as he let his hair fall. He climbed onto the bed over Harry, his hair
dragging against Harry's chest as he pushed Harry's shirt up and over his head.
"You like my hair, Potter?"
Harry ran his fingers through it, streaming like a waterfall of white gold between them. "Yeah."
Draco smiled before bending down to kiss him, and Harry took his chance to wrap his arms around
Draco's waist, pulling him flush against him as he rolled on top of Draco.
Draco let out a gasp of surprise as their cocks slid against one another, Harry's mouth latching on
Draco's neck. He tasted salty and sweet. One hand threaded into Draco's hair as the other found
Draco's open palm, interlocking their fingers above the man's head as Harry rolled his hips.
Draco let out a high-pitched moan, lifting his own hips to meet Harry's. "Merlin. Fuck. Yes!"
Harry murmured the incantation of a lubrication spell against Draco's skin; his intention made clear
as their slick cocks slid easily against one another. After leaving a particularly violent mark on
Draco's neck, Harry reclaimed Draco's mouth, muffling his moans as their tongues intertwined.
Draco tasted of Firewhisky, along with something sweeter—amaretto or something of the like. The
blond's nails dragged across his back, his grip in Harry's hand tightening. Harry could feel the
tingling in his groin as he quickened his pace, the slick slapping sounds of their stomachs echoing
through the room.
Harry broke the kiss to catch his breath, and Draco threw his head back, face contorted with
pleasure as he cried out.
"Fuck, yes, Daddy," he whined. "Make me come!"
Harry was done for, and with three more rolls of his hips, nails digging into Harry's shoulders as
Draco came, his own climax rattled through him.
"Lucah!"
Harry collapsed against the blond, who had stiffened beneath him.
As suddenly as it had happened, Harry's consciousness went blank.

Chapter 5
Sunday, 5th July
Harry let out a groan as he rubbed his throbbing forehead. He blinked at the sunlight peeking
through the curtains of a window in a room he did not recognise. Harry was naked and twisted in
silk sheets. His eyes flew open, not daring to breathe as he turned his head. Long blond hair
cascaded over a pillow beside him, a pale back rising and falling.
Harry's blood ran cold. It was Draco. Draco Malfoy.
Anxiety washed over him as he tried to recall the previous night. He remembered kissing Draco,
the feel of his body against him as he held him against the wall. But that was the end of it. It was
all a blur after that. He sat up slowly, wincing at the pounding in his skull.
He grabbed his glasses from the nightstand, blinking as he took in the minimalist bedroom. It was
clean, apart from the clothes scattered across the floor. Harry slowly slid from the bed, pausing to
see if Draco would wake. The man slept on, and Harry picked up his boxers, pulling them on,
followed by his jeans. His shirt was on the other side of the bed, and Harry could see Draco's face,
soft and angelic in sleep. Harry's heart tightened, and his stomach clenched as he stared at him.
He'd gone home with Draco Malfoy.
Harry saw his phone and wand in the corner of the room and snatched them up. He tapped the
home button to review his notifications. There were a few texts from Ron but nothing from Lucah.
Harry ran a hand across his face. He was never drinking again for as long as he lived.
Ron
Today 1:57 AM
Ron: You alive, mate?
Ron: Let me know you got home alright.
Today 8:24 AM
Harry: Yeah.
Harry: I fucked up, Ron.
Delivered
Harry pocketed his phone before slipping out the open bedroom door. He didn't dare try and
Apparate from inside the flat. As quietly as he could, he unlocked Draco's door and stepped into
the hall. It took everything for him to not bolt down the corridor. When he'd made it to the lobby
and stepped out onto the street, Harry buckled over, hyperventilating.
What the fuck had he done?
-----
When Draco woke, he was alone.
He slammed his fist against the headboard. "Fuck!"
-----
Ron
Today 9:17 AM
Ron: Harry. What's wrong?
Ron: What happened?!
Harry: That fucking Firewhisky!!
Harry: Woke up at MALFOY'S FLAT!
Ron: Oh. Fuck.
Harry: Yeah, fuck. Get your arse over to my place NOW!
Harry: Do NOT bring Pansy!
Ron: Alright, alright, fine.
Ron: Over in a bit.
When Harry got home, he ran upstairs, ripping off his clothes and discarding them in the hamper.
He turned on the shower and stepped under the stream, which was still freezing. Harry shuddered
as the water began to warm against his skin. He rested his hands against the tiles as water cascaded
down his head and back, dripping from wet clumps of his hair as he stared unseeingly at the floor.
He racked his brain for any semblance of a memory of what had happened between him and Draco.
He'd woken up clean, so if there had been…events…Draco must have tidied him up. He shuddered
at the memory of Draco's grip on his arms, his mouth on his.
"Fuck. Fuck. FUCK!" screamed Harry, his curses echoing through the small bathroom.
He'd been drunk. Draco was a ruddy, handsome bloke, who Harry may or may not have had
dormant feelings for, and he caved into temptation. Talk about siren calls. Draco had practically
thrown himself at Harry, and with how pissed he was, Harry couldn't be blamed for his actions. At
least that's what he would keep telling himself.
Harry washed his body, scrubbing away the murky memories of last night with the suds and spray.
He thought of Lucah. What was he going to say? Harry would have to tell him. They were going to
see each other at the end of the week, and for all Harry knew, he'd just slept with someone else.
Right after he'd confessed to Lucah that he'd never been with a man.
Even if they hadn't met yet, they'd been clear of their intentions. They were exclusive. They both
wanted to meet. They both wanted…well.
He towel-dried his hair, leaving it more of a disaster than usual, and got dressed. Just as he pulled a
shirt over his head, he heard the click of the front door.
"Harry?!"
"Yeah!" he called out the bedroom door. "Be right down."
Ron was sitting in the drawing-room, his knees bouncing nervously. He looked up at Harry,
smiling.
"So. Malfoy."
"Yeah."
Ron coughed, his ears flaming. "What…er…did you…?"
"I don't know! I don't remember any of it," said Harry in frustration. "I remember kissing him in the
hall at the party, and then next thing I knew, I was waking up next to Draco Bloody Malfoy."
Ron chewed his lip as he scratched his head. "You don't remember anything?"
"Nothing."
Ron leaned back in his chair. "Are you going to ask him?"
"Who? Malfoy?! No fucking way. I don't want to see or hear from him ever again."
"Ouch, mate. That's a bit harsh."
"Harsh?! I was drunk, and Malfoy…well, he took advantage of that, didn't he? That's shitty as fuck.
Not that I could expect any less from the prick."
"Don't say that. I'm sure it wasn't like that. I know it wasn't like that."
"Yeah, and how would you know?"
"Er…" Ron's cheeks flushed to match his ears. "Just talk to Draco, alright? Hear him out."
Harry let out a huff, throwing himself down on the couch. "Not happening. And what's more
important, what the fuck am I going to tell Lucah?!"
"I'm sorry, mate. I thought that…this is my fault," said Ron solemnly.
"It's really not," said Harry, massaging his brow. "I'm sorry for dragging you out here. But I
appreciate you coming over. I should get some more sleep."
"Of course," said Ron, standing. "Let me know…if you need anything, alright?"
Harry nodded, laying down on the couch and covering his eyes with his arm.
"I'm sorry," Ron murmured before his footsteps squeaked across the floor towards the front door.
-----
Harry gasped as he sat upright, a cold sweat on his brow. He'd thought it was a dream, but it was
far too real. Whatever fog that had blocked his memories of his night with Draco had lifted, and it
wasn't what Harry imagined. Draco had asked permission, and then it was Harry who lost control.
Harry hissed at his raging erection, and he groaned as he fell back onto the cushions.
He'd called Draco Lucah.
Harry wanted to crawl into a hole and die.
After ten minutes of wallowing in a mix of self-hatred and begrudging arousal, he dared to pull out
his phone. Still no messages from Lucah, but he might have had a long night for himself and was
sleeping in. Harry took a deep breath and pulled up the chat.
Lucah
Yesterday 5:53 PM
Jamie: Don't worry. You'll come with me later. *winking-kiss emoji*
Lucah: Promise?
Jamie: Promise.
Delivered
Harry was going to be sick. What could he say to him now?
'Hi, Lucah! Sorry about breaking my promise to make you come. I was busy tossing off with
another bloke. Hope you had a great night anyway!'
No, Harry couldn't tell him. So much for Gryffindor courage.
Lucah
Today 11:33 AM
Jamie: Hey
Jamie: Sorry I didn't message you last night. Party went a bit longer than planned. I sort of passed
out right after.
Lucah: That's quite alright. Same here.
Lucah: Did you have a good time?
Jamie: Yeah. It was good.
Jamie: You?
Lucah: It was an acceptable evening.
Jamie: That's good.
Lucah: Yes.
Lucah: Do you work today?
Jamie: No, I'm off. I work tomorrow, though.
Lucah: Ah. Lucky for you, then. You can sleep the day away.
Lucah: What's the name of your shop, by the way?
Jamie: The coffee shop?
Jamie: You want to know?
Lucah: Yes, I would. If you're willing to share.
Jamie: Black and Brew. In Bloomsbury.
Lucah: Really? I don't think I've ever been there.
Jamie: You…going to stop by?
Lucah: Oh, no. I was just curious. You never said…
Jamie: It's okay. Just asking.
Lucah: Are we still on for Saturday?
Jamie: Yeah, of course.
Jamie: Why wouldn't we be?
Lucah: Just making sure.
Jamie: I'm looking forward to it.
Lucah: Yes. Me too, Jamie.
-----
Draco set down his phone and groaned into his hands. How was he going to face Harry after this?
Harry had called him Lucah, and Draco thought there was a chance that Harry knew. But Harry had
left, and based on his recent messages, clearly Harry didn't know he was Lucah. Obviously, Harry
had no intention of telling Lucah about Draco. Not that he'd expect him too. If Draco knew Harry,
he would be crippled by the guilt of what had happened between them.
Was there any chance of fixing…any of this? Draco would have to handle everything with care. For
starters, Lucah was completely oblivious and needed to act accordingly. He needed to save face
and act as normally as possible.
Jamie
Lucah: I'll most likely be sleeping on and off today, so I apologise if I go silent for a while.
Perhaps you should as well! You'll want to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for work tomorrow!
Jamie: Yeah. Good idea. I'm knackered.
Jamie: Wish I could curl up with you, though.
Lucah: That would be lovely.
Lucah: Perhaps one day soon?
Jamie: Yeah. I'd love that.
As for Draco Malfoy, he wasn't about to concede that easily. Not even to himself.
-----
Monday, 6th July
"Harry, we need more dark roast. Could you run to the back?" asked Sean.
"Sure," said Harry, pushing through the storage room door.
He took the short reprieve to check his phone.
Lucah
Today 9:46 AM
Lucah: I hope you're making it through work okay. I slept all of yesterday, and frankly, I'm still
exhausted. How do young people do it? How did WE do it?!
Today 10:52 AM
Jamie: We were young then too.
Lucah: I refuse to accept that I am anything but.
Lucah: I give you permission to be old, however. I always did want a Sugar Daddy.
Jamie: What makes you so sure I'm Sugar Daddy material? I work at a coffee shop.
Lucah: In which you make hundreds of sugary treats and beverages! The sweetest Sugar Daddy of
them all!
Jamie: Do you like those sorts of things? Sweet things?
Lucah: I happen to prefer things a bit more…savoury. But I wouldn't say no to a touch of
sweetness now and again. *winking-kiss emoji*
Jamie: Is that right?
Jamie: Sorry, I have to get back to work. I'm off at 3.
Lucah: Have a good shift, Jamie.
Harry picked up the bag of roasted beans and pushed the door open. His mouth fell open, eyes
widening as his grip slackened on the bag at the sight of the man lingering at the pastry case.
It was Draco.
"Harry, are you okay?" asked Sean, taking the bag from his hands. "This couldn't have been too
heavy for you," he muttered almost to himself, eying Harry with concern as he placed the beans on
the counter.
"N-no. I—"
That's when Draco looked up, catching Harry's eyes. Harry's cheeks burned brighter.
"So, these muffins," said Draco casually, gesturing to the case. "They are gluten-free?"
Harry blinked at Draco. "Er…"
"Ah yes, I see the little card. But are they vegan?" asked Draco, his glare piercing as the corner of
his mouth twitched in amusement.
"Uhm. I think so?" said Harry.
Draco pulled a face of mock surprise. "You don't know? Don't you work here? I see the little
apron. Good help must be hard to find nowadays."
Sean hurried over to Harry's side. "Yes. Everything is vegan, and the double chocolate muffins are
gluten-free. I apologise for my employee's failure to answer. Such. An. Obvious. Question," he
punctuated each word, glaring at Harry.
"Don't pay him mind, Sean. He's just a git," said Harry, glaring at Draco.
"Harry!" the manager gasped before returning his attention to Draco. "Sir, let me offer you a
complimentary beverage. Or a muffin if you prefer. It is no trouble at all. My employee shall be
dealt with accordingly, I assure you."
Draco's mouth quirked into a smug grin. "That's very kind of you." His eyes flashed at Harry.
Harry was grinding his teeth. "This is Draco Malfoy," he scoffed, and Sean jumped. "He is a
personal acquaintance, and he's doing this on purpose."
"Harry, how could you think my intentions are anything but honourable? Is it my fault you don't
know your own products?"
Harry's fists clenched at his sides. "Sean, can I take my break now?"
The man blinked, looking between Harry and Draco. "I…er. Erik gets here in fifteen minutes. I can
let you go then. I really need you on the till, Harry. The queue is getting a bit long." He spun
around, waving at the small girl struggling to refill the dark roast grinder. "Candice, get started on
that Frappé."
Harry approached the register, and Draco stepped in front of him.
"What do cowards drink nowadays?" asked the blond.
"You'd be the one to know," said Harry stiffly.
Draco frowned. "That was low, even for you, Potter. I'll take an Americano. Hot."
Harry rang him up, shocked to see Draco pull out Muggle money and pay like it was a shop in
Diagon Alley. He handed the man his change.
"It will be up for you shortly," said Harry.
"Ah, ah, ah," said Draco, shaking his finger. "I believe you owe me a muffin."
Harry scowled. He opened the case, selecting the smallest, ugliest muffin and stuffing it violently
into a paper bag. He handed it to Draco, who happily accepted it.
"Thank you, darling," he said cheerily.
Candice spun around Harry and whispered, "Ex-boyfriend?"
Harry shook his head. "Worse."
Candice's smile spoke volumes. She would be needling Harry about it later.
"Here you go, sir. One Americano," she said, handing it to Draco.
"Thank you, dear," he said sweetly. The girl blushed as she ducked behind Harry.
Draco took a sip, winking at Harry before sauntering over to a far window table. Harry rolled his
eyes.
The customer waiting at the till looked a bit nervous, and it took everything in Harry to force a
smile as he took her order.
"Sorry about that. What can I get for you?"
-----
The way Draco was eating his muffin, he could have been charged with public indecency. Harry's
skin tingled as he walked between tables and towards the blond man, who was slowly licking his
fingers as he watched Harry's approach. Harry pulled out the chair on which Draco had propped his
feet, which he briskly pulled away. Harry sat down in a huff, arms crossed.
"How do you know where I work?" Harry asked stiffly.
"It was pure coincidence, I assure you."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Cut the crap, Malfoy. Why are you here?"
"You left."
Harry was taken aback by the disappointment in Draco's voice.
"I. Yeah. I did."
"Why?" asked Draco flatly.
It was hard to hold Draco's gaze. His expression was hard, but his eyes told a different story
entirely. He was hurt.
"Why?" asked Harry. "Because it was a mistake. We were drunk. It would never have happened
otherwise."
Draco's eyes fell to his empty cup, his fingers tapping against it lazily. "I see."
Harry hesitated. "I mean, right?"
Draco looked up and gave him a forced smile. "If you say so, Harry."
The man stood, collecting his cup and muffin wrapper. "Enjoy your day, Potter. Apologies if I
made it a bit less pleasant."
He turned, his long hair flowing behind him as he tossed his trash in the bin.
"Malfoy, wait!"
Harry couldn't run after Draco. He was still on the clock. Not that Harry would have. What did he
owe Draco, anyway? Nothing. It was one night. It didn't mean anything. Things like that happened
all the time, didn't they?
When Harry stood and straightened his apron, he could have sworn he smelled Draco's scent
lingering in the air. His chest tightened at the flash of memory—Draco's flushed face, hair strewing
out above his head.
Harry shook his head. He couldn't spare another thought on Draco. Harry's first date with Lucah
was in five days. He wanted to be with Lucah. Not Draco.
No. Not Draco. Never Draco.
-----
Jamie
Today 3:32 PM
Lucah: How was work today?
Jamie: It was. Eventful.
Lucah: Oh? What happened?
Jamie: This guy I went to school with happened to come in. We don't exactly get on.
Lucah: Really? Why don't you?

Jamie: Well. I guess it's complicated. He was a right prat in school. A real snob. Thought he was
better than everyone else.
Lucah: How do you know that?
Jamie: I mean, that was obvious. You must think rather highly of yourself if you believe you have
the right to spit on the little guys.
Jamie: Not that we were little.
Jamie: I'm not little.
Lucah: I'm sure you aren't, Jamie…
Lucah: But isn't it possible that he was only playing up to it for attention? Perhaps he didn’t get
the proper nurturing or care he needed growing up, which translated into poor behaviour. It's the
loudest ones that are often heard the least, I've found.
Jamie: I mean. Yeah. I guess so.
Jamie: But it could also be because he's just an arse.
Lucah: True. But I'd like to think the best of people. Wouldn't you?
Jamie: Yeah. You're right.
Lucah: That's the spirit.
Lucah: So what happened?
Jamie: Did what he does best. Made a fool of me in front of my boss. Got in my head.
Lucah: I see.
Lucah: Sounds like a playground crush to me.
Jamie: No way. He's practically my nemesis.
Jamie: I doubt I'll see him again. He wasn't exactly in the best mood when he left.
Lucah: Nemesis? You're really giving this man a lot of power.
Lucah: Did he seem…upset?
Jamie: I guess? I don't really want to talk about him anymore.
Lucah: Alright.
Jamie: Sorry. Just a sore subject at the moment.
Lucah: It's okay.
Lucah: I have, as you call it, a 'nemesis' as well.
Jamie: lol
Jamie: Do you really?
Lucah: Remember when I told you someone hurt me?
Jamie: Yeah?
Lucah: That was him.
Jamie: Oh. I'm so sorry.
Lucah: It's alright. Or at least it was with time. He never knew how I felt, and of course, he lived
his life, and I carried on to live mine. It was a long time ago.
Jamie: That's…
Jamie: I understand, actually.
Lucah: Do you? I thought you married your Hogwarts sweetheart?
Jamie: Sort of. We had dated in school for a time, but when we broke up, I really thought it was
the end of it.
Jamie: I was on my own for a while after…you know.
Lucah: The war?
Jamie: Yeah
Jamie: Let me know if any of this makes you feel uncomfortable, okay? That's the last thing I
want. I like you. I really, really like you. Nothing changes that.
Lucah: Yes, Jamie. I like you too. Now, tell me.
Jamie: So, I have a piece of his clothing. You know, my 'nemesis'.
Lucah: Oh?
Jamie: I happened upon it by accident. Just a scrap ripped from his robes. I wasn't sure why I kept
it. A sane person would have thrown it away, right? But not me. Hell. It's still in my dresser. Can
you believe that?
Lucah: I honestly cannot.
Delivered
Draco really couldn't. He knew exactly what Harry was speaking of.
They'd been fighting for the Snitch when Draco's Quidditch robes had caught on Harry's
broomstick. Draco was nearly yanked from his broom, the corner of its hem ripping as he tugged it
free. Draco had mended the tear easily, not giving the discarded piece of fabric another thought. To
think Harry had kept it after all this time…
Jamie
Jamie: It was like it was a secret saved only for myself. I carried it everywhere. Fuck, I sound like
a creep. I swear I'm normal! I don't make a habit of collecting people's things and carrying them
around with me.
Lucah: It's okay, Jamie. Please continue.
Jamie: Well. It was soothing in a way. Looking back…fuck, I was obsessed. Though I think it was
a combination of not understanding what I was feeling at the time and the desire to keep him close.
Jamie: That I felt more than I was willing to let on.
Jamie: He made me so mad. He was such a fucking dick.
Jamie: Until he wasn't. He was just scared. Lost.
Jamie: And so was I.
Jamie: This might sound stupid, but I feel like if we'd just been paying attention, perhaps we'd
have…I don't know. Maybe that's just wishful thinking.
Lucah: But you saw him today. Couldn't you just. Pick up where you left off?
Jamie: No. I couldn't do that. It's all in the past.
Jamie: Lucah. I'm all in. I couldn't imagine being with anyone else other than you. I'm sorry if
that's a bit forward for how long we've been talking…
Lucah: No, it isn't. I feel the same way, Jamie.
Lucah: I just hope I don't come as a disappointment.
Jamie: Why? Are you actually an 87-year-old woman with 17 cats all named Buttons?
Lucah: That was terrifyingly specific. We must unpack that at a later date. *elderly-woman and
cat emojis*
Lucah: No. I am most definitely a man. Age redacted.

Jamie: I can see your profile, you know.
Lucah: Yes, well, I am in denial. Just wait until you hit the big 4-O.
Jamie: Yikes. Don't remind me.
Jamie: Since you're older, does that make you my Sugar Daddy, then?
Lucah: Not a chance. I'm far too comfortable in my role as Sugar Baby.
Jamie: Fair enough. You know I love it when you call me Daddy.
Lucah: Indeed I do.
Jamie: I wouldn't mind hearing it…
Lucah: As delicious as that sounds, I really must be off. I'm having dinner with Daisy, and it takes
me approximately two hours to get ready.
Jamie: It takes you two hours to get dressed?!
Lucah: Oh, no! It takes me two hours of meditation and half my body weight in chocolate to
emotionally prepare.
Jamie: You really are a piece of work.
Lucah: Work, I definitely am. Are you cut out for it?
Jamie: Bring it on.
"Read this."
Draco handed his phone to Pansy across the table. She began to read, slowly scrolling through his
most recent interaction with Jamie. Her eyes grew progressively larger, her mouth opening in shock
as she looked up at him.
"This is about you!"
"We don't know that," said Draco flatly.
"Don't be daft, Draco! It's obvious that Harry was in love with you. Oh my God. Harry was in love
with you!"
Draco crossed his arms and legs, leaning back in his chair. "Yes, and what good does that do for
me now? That was then, and he hates me now. Even drunk, I most likely gave him the best sex of
his life, and he still turned me down flat. You should have seen his face, Pansy. It was a mistake."
"Why do you think he fell for Lucah in the first place, hmm? It hasn't even been a month! People
don't fall like that unless they're already halfway there." Pansy tried to catch Draco's eye. "Or
waiting?"
Draco picked up his wine and took a sip. He did not respond.
"Because it's you, Draco. You two just…I don't know. It doesn't make sense, but you just fit. Do
you know what Ron told me?"
"Do I look like I care?"
"Yes, you do," she said stiffly. "He was shocked when Harry said he'd started dating Ginny again.
He was so sure that Harry was going to…I don't know…attempt some grand 'I died and came back,
and it all put things into perspective, and I need to tell Draco how I feel' gesture."
Draco choked on his wine. "What do you mean Harry died?!"
"How do you not know?! It was in all the papers for months!"
"Ah, because our sources for news and gossip only ever print the truth."
Pansy rolled her eyes. "You would know."
He tipped his glass to her. "Precisely."
"Anyway. When Ron told me that Harry had locked himself up in Grimmauld Place to 'mourn'
those he had lost—"
"Grimmauld Place? The old Black estate?"
Pansy nodded. "Sirius Black left it to Harry, so I understand. He was Harry's godfather," she said
dismissively. "As I was saying, when Ron told me, I got to thinking. Maybe Harry wasn't only
mourning the loss of his friends. Perhaps he was mourning you, too."
Draco blinked. "And why on Earth would Potter mourn me? He knew full well I was very much
alive!"
"Did you forget your trial?" she hissed.
"Of course, I've forgotten the time I sat in front of the entire Wizengamot and was charged with
war crimes and murders I did not commit."
"But you weren't charged. Because of Harry."
"So?"
"I was there with you. I remember when Harry tried to talk to you."
At the end of his trial, Draco had remained sitting in the centre of the room long after everyone had
been dismissed, unbelieving that he could just walk out the door a free man. Pansy had met Draco
in the hall, just as Harry had rounded the corner and walked up to Draco, his fingers running
through his bird's nest of hair.
"Malfoy, can we talk?"
Still raw with humiliation and embarrassment, Draco's snarl was venomous. "What could you
possibly have to say that I give a fuck about, Potter? Why? What do I owe you for your gallantry?
Do you want me to fall to my knees in thanks? Kiss your boots?"
"No…I just. There's something I've wanted to—"

"Goodbye, Potter. You've done your job as the Saviour. Now leave me the fuck alone."
Harry's face had paled, his eyes glassy and shining with unshed tears. Draco hadn't cared enough to
register the hurt on Harry's face as he stormed away. Pansy had tugged on his arm, trying to get
him to turn around—but he refused.
"You'd never known what he was going to say that day. But I think you know now," she said,
lifting Draco's phone. "He's mad for you, and he doesn't even know it. Hell, he probably does and
is an absolute mess. Especially after Saturday night. You need to tell him, Draco."
"Jamie and Lucah have a date on Saturday."
"That's five days from now!"
"You don't think I know that?!"
"So you're just going to pretend you're Lucah until then?"
"What else can I do?"
Pansy's eyes flashed. "You could tell him!"
"I will. I am!" Draco exclaimed. "I just need a bit more time."
"Don't fuck this up, Draco," she said stiffly. "Where's the waiter? I need more wine."
"Don't we both," Draco muttered to himself.
But no amount of wine would be enough to get him through what he needed to do.
Chapter 6
Wednesday, 8th July
"Malfoy, you can't keep doing this!" hissed Harry in frustration. "Don't you have a job…or an
estate to manage or something?"
Harry had planned to avoid the blond for the rest of his life, if not at least for a few weeks. He was
so confused, ashamed to admit that when he talked to Lucah, he pictured Draco. Harry needed to
put a face to the name as soon as possible, or things would surely get out of hand.
Draco was not Lucah. Draco was a selfish prat who apparently had nothing better to do than
torment Harry at his workplace. Harry had told Draco it was a mistake. That should have been the
end of it.
"Or something," said Draco. "Now, are you working tomorrow?"
"No. Why?"
"I was wondering if you and Albus would like to join us for lunch."
Draco gestured towards the teen sitting at a nearby table, mouth stuffed full of muffin, thankfully
fully paid for. Scorpius waved at Harry, and Harry waved back.
"Couldn't you have owled?" asked Harry.
"I could have, yes." Draco's smile met his eyes, and Harry's knees turned to jelly. When he did not
respond, Draco waited for a beat before saying, "We'll meet at my place. You remember where
that is, don't you?"
Harry's cheeks heated. "Fine. I'll talk to Al. Now, please, go. I have work to do."
When the door to the shop closed behind Draco and Scorpius, Harry breathed deeply. After a smile
like that, Harry knew the power Draco held over him was alive and well, no matter how hard he
tried to ignore it.
His self-control was crumbling, but he continued reminding himself of what he truly wanted.
Lucah.
Harry would have to keep things civil during this lunch, setting clear boundaries, which shouldn't
be difficult accounting for the presence of their children. Al and Scorpius were friends, and it was
clear that meant there was no avoiding Draco entirely. Practice made perfect, and Harry just needed
more practice sharing a space with Draco.
When Harry met Lucah, and things moved forward from the emotional to the physical, he'd forget
all about Draco and his smile, hair, snark, striking features, and fit body.
With Draco, it was purely physical, and Harry needed more. No. He deserved it.
-----
Thursday, 9th July
"Are you and Scorp's dad friends?" asked Albus as they walked into Draco's building.
"Not particularly, no."
"Then why did he invite you over?"
Harry smirked, knocking Albus' shoulder with his elbow. "I'm pretty sure it was to invite you over.
I'm just collateral damage."
"Can't be. I had lunch at Scorp's yesterday."
Harry stopped in his tracks. "You what?"
"I have lunch there a lot actually," Albus turned to see his father standing stiffly in the middle of
the lobby. "Uh, Dad? Are you coming?"
"I'm not feeling so well," said Harry, wiping his brow. "I think we should skip—"
"Dad! Don't be rude. What did Mr Malfoy ever do to you?"
If only you knew, Harry thought.
"I told you. He's really nice. I think you'd like him a lot," said Albus as he beckoned his father to
follow. "Come on. We have to use a Muggle lift. It takes ages. You'll hate it."
Harry smirked and rolled his eyes. "Alright. Let's get this over with."
-----
"Why is Al's dad coming over?"
"I…haven't been completely honest with you," said Draco, stirring the soup simmering on the
stove. He turned to face his son, sitting at the counter. "I'm gay, Scorpius."
Scorpius' brow furrowed, and then he burst out laughing. "Merlin, Dad! I know!"
Draco's eyes widened. "How?"
"Auntie Pansy. She told me not to say anything until you felt comfortable telling me yourself."
"Merlin's saggy left—I'm going to murder her in her sleep!"
"Don't blame her! I was the one who asked why you didn't have a girlfriend."
"I don't want a girlfriend."
"Because you're gay."
"Well, yes, but I just. I didn't want to date at all."
"But now you're dating Al's dad?"

Draco's cheeks reddened. "He's not—we're not!"
Scorpius smirked, hopping off the stool. "But you'd like to. Is that what this is? Am I your
wingman?"
Draco let out a laugh. "My wingman? Do you even know what that means?"
"Sure I do. I'll tell him all this great stuff about you. He won't be able to resist." Scorpius wiggled
his eyebrows.
"I'd rather you didn't," said Draco, amused. "But I appreciate it all the same."
"So are you going to ask him on a real date, or what?"
"You see, that's the second half of this little confession."
"I'm listening…"
-----
"Hello, Mr Potter. Hey, Al," said Scorpius, opening the door to let them in.
"Oh, please. Call me Harry."
"With pleasure," said the boy enthusiastically.
"Al, I've got something to show you, up in my room. Harry, why don't you help Dad?"
"Er…"
"Kitchen's down there," Scorpius said, pointing down the hall on Harry's left.
The two teens ran in the opposite direction, leaving Harry alone in the entryway.
"Okay," he said to himself. "You can do this."
He followed the sounds of water, clattering and…singing?
Harry approached Draco from behind, who was levitating plates, bowls, napkins, and silverware
towards the supper table.
"…the cold never bothered me anyway…"
"Lunch and a show?" asked Harry in amusement.
Draco froze, the plates and flatware crashing to the floor. Harry couldn't help himself. He laughed.
The look on Draco's horrified face when he spun around, with the plates swivelling on the floor,
the banging and clattering—it was all too much not to.
"Dad?!" came Scorpius' voice from down the hall. "You okay?!"
"I'm fine. We're both fine!" he called back, clearly flustered.
Draco regained his composure with effort, raising his wand to send everything on the floor over to
the sink for a good scrubbing.
"You're early," said Draco, a bit breathlessly.
His blond hair was tied back in a high ponytail, which Harry found extremely cute.
"Channelling your inner Elsa? You've got the internal storm and ice down."
"Ha. Ha," said Draco curtly, the table finally set with all the essentials…and non-essentials.
They could have been sitting down for a formal dinner by the looks of the spread—flowers and
candles, various sizes of plates, bowls, forks, and spoons.
Harry walked over to the table. "Is this an etiquette session?" he asked jokingly.
"Why, Potter," said Draco, placing a hand on his chest. "I would be honoured. It's absolutely
amazing you've managed this long with all the parties and galas you used to attend. If I didn't know
better, I would have thought you ate with your hands like a chimpanzee."
"I do like bananas."
Draco snorted, catching himself as he covered his mouth and nose. Harry smiled, shaking his head
as he looked around the dining room. It was similar to what he remembered of Draco's bedroom.
White, greys and blacks with accents of gold. Everything was in its place apart from a small desk in
the corner, covered in what appeared to be graphite drawings and sketches. Did Draco draw? Or
perhaps Scorpius.
The drawings varied from rough sketches to crisp, clean drawings: flowers, trees, and lakes. A few
he recognised as the Hogwarts grounds. There was a partial profile of a man peeking out from
under the stack of drawings. Harry let his curiosity get the best of him, lightly grasping the corner
and pulling it slowly from the pile. His breath caught as he stared down at the smiling face.
It was Harry. Not Harry as he was now. The hair was too long, and his features too soft.
Harry shot a glance at Draco in the kitchen. His back was to Harry as he tended to the pot on the
stove. He quickly thumbed through the stack. There were more of them. It was as if it were a
collection of candid Muggle snapshots in time—Harry laughing, smirking, scowling…crying.
How old were these drawings? They looked recent enough. Harry's eyes fell on the small bowl at
the corner of the desk: a Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes Pocket Pensieve. Was Draco using his
memories to draw Harry?
Then he saw it—another drawing of Harry, but clearly at his current age. Harry was lying on his
front, shirtless, with his arms under a pillow, sleeping. Harry's fingers reflexively grasped the front
of his shirt against his aching chest. Harry looked so peaceful in sleep, not unlike Draco had been.
There was a sharp clang from the kitchen, and Harry looked up again, quickly shuffling the
drawings back into a pile before taking a quick step backwards from the desk. He turned to cross
the room, focusing his attention on admiring the large photographs on the wall. One was a close up
of a smiling woman holding what could only be little Scorpius, rocking in her arms.
"Your…wife?" Harry choked, wiping the smears of graphite from his fingers onto his jeans.
Harry still didn't know if Draco was married. Obviously, Scorpius had a mother.
Draco turned towards Harry. "Pardon?" His face paled as he looked from Harry's awkward
expression to the photograph and cleared his throat. "Former, yes. Astoria."
"She's beautiful," said Harry as a sharp pain shot through his chest.
"Yes. She was." Draco clapped his hands together. "Anyway, I've made some sort of soup? If you
love it, I receive full credit. If you don't…well. It's Lovebottom's recipe."
"Lovebottom?" asked Harry, re-entering the kitchen.
Draco raised an eyebrow. "Surely you don't go around calling her Luna Lovegood-Longbottom.
That sounds rather suggestive, don't you think?"
"And Luna Lovebottom doesn't?" Harry snickered.
Draco's cheeks pinked before looking away. "Regardless, it's an awful name. Every month's print
is just as painful as the last. I've begged and begged. Pick one! Or choose a pen name! Anything
except…that! Alas. It's Luna we're talking about. And when I think of their poor child…"
"You work with Luna?" Harry asked, surprised.
He and Ginny had remained close with Luna and Neville all the years since school. He couldn't
believe Draco wouldn't have been mentioned at some point. Then again, why would they mention
Draco Malfoy?
"You didn't know? But you've been a Quibbler subscriber for over twenty years! My name is all
over the damned thing!"
"Oh, er. I think Ginny would look through them a bit before binning them."
Draco shuddered violently. "Don't say such hateful things, Potter. If only you knew the amount of
blood and tears I shed for the sake of that shameful tabloid month after month. I'm ashamed even to
acknowledge it."
Harry leaned back against the counter beside Draco, watching the blond stir the large soup pot, his
hair spilling over his shoulder. With the resurging desire to run his fingers through it, Harry crossed
his arms, hands beneath his biceps.
"So what's this really about, Malfoy?"
"Would you call me Draco?" the man asked softly, still not looking at Harry.
Harry's mouth fell open slightly. "I—sure. Draco."
A smile teased at the corner of Draco's mouth before he laughed, "That was…well, that was
weird."
"It felt weird."
"So did the first time I called you Harry."
Harry sucked in a breath. "I—er. Yeah."
"I'd like to be friends, Harry."
Harry stared at Draco's profile, so similar to that of his youth but sharper—more defined. He really
did have a handsome jawline. Harry found himself wanting to trace the lines of Draco's face, but
not with a pencil. As Harry's gaze fell, he tried not to think about his mouth against his long, pale
throat.
He swallowed dryly. "I'm not so sure that's a good idea, Mal—Draco."
Draco finally looked at Harry, dropping the spoon. "Why?"
"Because! We're just…you're you, and I'm me." He gestured to the blond and then to himself.
"Ah, yes. Everything is clear now," said Draco sarcastically, waving his hand.
Harry pinched the bridge of his nose. "I can't do this, Draco."
"You keep saying that."
"I'm serious, I'm—" Harry ran his fingers through his hair. "I know this isn't about friendship. And
I'm—I'm already involved with someone. Before what happened last weekend. I told you it was a
mistake, and I mean that."
"I heard you the first time," said Draco stiffly. "And I'm not suggesting anything of the sort. Just
that we at least be civil to one another. My best friend and yours are together, and from what we
can expect, for the foreseeable future. Not to mention—" Draco gestured down the hall "—our
sons have been close friends for years. We should be able to stand in the same room together."
"Oh. Yeah. That's—yeah, we should."
"Good," said Draco, listing his head as he tossed his hair to his opposite shoulder, neck fully
exposed.
Harry stiffened, eyes following the faint trail of marks along the base of Draco's throat and
disappearing under his shirt collar. His cheeks grew hot.
"You're doing that on purpose."
"Doing what?" asked Draco, feigning innocence.
Harry walked up to the blond. "I'm serious, Draco."
Draco rolled his eyes, turning to face Harry. "I'm just moving my hair! Is that a crime?"
"It should be!" exclaimed Harry. "You should keep your neck covered. Especially when—" His
eyes glanced down to the marks and up again. "It's not fair."
Draco gaped at him. "Oh, my God. I'm practically a walking wet dream to you, aren't I?"
"Excuse me? That's not—" Harry sputtered. "You're out of line, Malfoy!"
"Back to Malfoy? Maybe you prefer that?" Draco teased.
"This was a mistake," said Harry, throwing his hands in the air. "I can't, with you like this."
"I'm not doing anything!"
"That's bullshit, and you know it!" Harry snapped, pointing his finger in Draco's face.
The blond grabbed hold of Harry's wrist, yanking it down. "Don't you dare scold me. I'm not a
child!"
Harry's eyes flashed. "But that's what you want, isn't it?'
Draco's breath caught, backing up against the counter.
"I remember what you called me," said Harry in a gravelly voice.
Draco's eyes darted between Harry's, wide and anxious, his mouth moving soundlessly. Neither
man moved, only continued to stare as if in challenge. Harry was overwhelmed by Draco's smell,
even among the soup's vapour. It had lingered at the coffee shop and on Harry's clothes from that
night, which he couldn't bring himself to wash.
"Daddy," Draco whispered.
Draco reached behind Harry's neck, pulling him in for a kiss. Harry's fingers were in Draco's hair,
tugging gently. Harry released a soft moan against Draco's lips before stumbling back.
"No. Just. No." He turned from Draco. "I have to go. Can you get Al home? I'll tell Gin."
"But Harry—"
Harry pushed past Draco and ran for the door.
-----
Draco slid to the floor, massaging his forehead as the sound of the door slamming rang in his ears.
"Dad?"
Draco looked up just as Scorpius and Albus rounded the corner.
"Dad! Are you okay?" Scorpius dropped to his knees beside Draco.
"I'm fine," Draco replied, forcing himself to his feet. "Mostly."
Albus looked around the kitchen to the dining room. "Where's Dad?"
Draco couldn't look at the boy. He looked so much like Harry it hurt. "He left."
"He left?" asked Scorpius, incredulously. "Why?"
Draco shook his head. "I'm going to cancel the dinner."
"Wait…what?" asked Scorpius. "On Saturday? You can't do that!"
Draco looked at his son, expression pained. "It's never going to happen. I'm not who he wants."
"But aren't you…him?" asked Albus.
Draco's gaze whipped to Albus and back to Scorpius. "You told him?!"
Scorpius shrugged as he smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry. I figured he should know."
Draco raked his hands across his face as he leaned against the counter. "Wonderful."
"I mean, if he wants to be with Lucah…that's still you, right?" Albus continued, Scorpius nodding
in agreement.
"Your father is never going to see me as anything other than the prat who made his life hell in
school."
"You guys knew each other in school?" asked Albus.
"Boy, did they ever," said Scorpius, pulling out one of the stools to sit at the counter. "Rivals on all
counts. Both Seekers, even."
Albus sat on the stool beside Scorpius. "You mean, you were the Slytherin Seeker?" Albus' eyes
widened in realisation. "Oh, my God. It's you!"
Draco's brow furrowed. "Why? Did your father tell you all sorts of nasty stories about me?"
Albus blushed. "Er…well."
Draco's eyes widened. "Fuck, I didn't mean…he didn't…oh, God." Draco covered his mouth in
horror.
Albus dropped his gaze. "I mean, he didn't tell me directly. I…er. Found a diary. At Dad's place."
Draco paled. "A diary?"
"He kept going on about an M. I thought it had been some girl," Albus scratched the back of his
head. "Sorry, I didn't know Dad was…anyway. He kept going on about that time M kissed him."
"Recently?!" exclaimed Draco, horrified at what could be found in the contents of Harry's latest
diary entries.
"Uh. No," said Albus. "It was from back in 2000 or something."
"But I never kissed him! Not until—I swear I would remember kissing Harry Bloody Potter," said
Draco, heatedly, massaging his temples. He took a deep breath. "I'm sorry, Albus. I know this is
your father we are discussing. But you are mistaken. He must have meant some other M."
"Some other M with gorgeous silver eyes and the Slytherin Seeker? Yeah, okay," said Albus,
smirking.
Scorpius laughed as Draco's mouth fell open.
"Anyway," Albus continued. "It was at some party. You were really drunk. Passed out right after. I
don't know much else. Just that he was really confused. Went on and on about…like you said…
how much you two didn't get on, but also how much he…er—" Albus' cheeks heated again "—got
off…thinking about you."
Draco closed his eyes, raising a hand to silence the teen. "Enough."
"Sorry," said Albus. "It wasn't just…like that. He seemed to really like you. A lot. I just thought
you'd be glad to know?"
"Yes, of course. Tickled to bits at the thought of having no recollection of my secret gay-scapades
with the man I've been trying to forget my entire life," said Draco dramatically.
"Wow," said Albus. "You like Dad that much?"
"Oh, Albus," said Scorpius, patting the other teen's head. "Dad should be locked up in St Mungo's;
he's so mad for him."
Draco glared at Scorpius. "That's enough from you, too."
"Then you should tell him," said Albus. "Who knows…if he was interested before…maybe he
could be again?"
Draco shifted his glare to Albus before releasing a resigned sigh. "Why am I taking love advice
from a couple of teenagers?"
The boys smirked at one another.
"So you'll go? On Saturday?" asked Scorpius, leaning forward in anticipation.
Draco drummed his fingers on the counter as he chewed his lip. "Yes, fine."
The boys cheered triumphantly.
Draco rolled his eyes, pulling out his phone and pointing at Scorpius. "But your aggravating arse is
leaving. I need time to think. Without further unsolicited sentiments."
"Fair enough," said Scorpius, shrugging.
"Do you think I could impose upon your mother?" Draco asked Albus.
Albus' eyes lit up. "Yeah, sure! Shouldn't be a problem."
Draco scrolled through his recent calls, tapping on Ginny's name. He shook his head as the boys
began to whisper animatedly.
"Hello?"
"Yes, Ginevra? Would it be an inconvenience to send Scorpius over to yours for the weekend?
Tonight through Sunday, more specifically."
"Oh! Not at all, Draco," said the woman on the other line. "And for the millionth time, it's Ginny.
Why? Is something the matter?"
Draco took a deep breath as he chewed his lip, unable to meet the boys' eyes, who were watching
him with interest.
He hadn't meant to tell Ginny. It just…slipped out the last time she had called regarding Scorpius'
limited food preferences. He and Ginny were friends, even if he had secretly wished death upon
her. That was until Harry had mentioned the divorce. After Draco discovered that Harry was Jamie,
it felt like a betrayal to keep it from her—even at the expense of their friendship. Draco could not
have anticipated her response.
"I'm going to tell him."
"Oh?"
"We're having dinner on Saturday. Lucah and Jamie, I mean."
The woman on the other line chuckled. "About damn time. You already know I'm team Drarry."
"Excuse me?" Draco pulled a face. "Drarry?"
"You know. Draco and Harry! Never mind…of course, he can stay over. Seriously, I'm rooting for
you, Draco."
"Thank you, Ginny. That means a lot. Coming from you."
"I know Harry, and it's been a genuine pleasure getting to know you, too. I mean this when I say I
couldn't imagine anyone better. For either of you."
Draco's chest tightened. "You were good for him, Ginny."
"Yes, well. Not as good for him as you are. Believe me."
"I'll just have to take your word for it," sighed Draco, still unconvinced. "I'll send Scorpius and
Albus over shortly."
"Sounds great. Good luck, Draco."
"Goodbye, Ginny. And thanks again."
-----
Friday, 10th July
Sean - B&B
Today 7:10 AM
Harry: I'm sorry, Sean, I'm just not feeling that good. My kids were sick, and they were off for a
few days. I'm so sorry. I don't want to get any of you sick either.
Sean: It's okay. We'll make it work. Take care, okay?
Harry: Yeah. Thanks.
Delivered
Harry did feel sick—sick with guilt. The lines between Draco and Lucah were blurring, and he
needed to get his head straight. He refused to leave the house except for his date on Saturday. Then
there would be no chance of running into Draco before then.
Albus had texted Harry asking where he had gone and that Draco had seemed off. Harry didn't
have the heart to reply.
Those damned drawings! Harry could picture the man hunched over the desk, biting his lip in
concentration as he mapped out every curve and angle of Harry's face. How long had Draco been
drawing Harry? And why?
Harry climbed out of bed, pulling on a jumper. He made his way down to the storage room, where
Harry had shoved random artefacts and trinkets from the house as he'd renovated. Pushing over a
couple of boxes, he found the ancient stone basin. Of course, the Blacks would own a Pensieve.
He took a deep breath, coughing on the dust. He levitated the basin off the shelf and onto a small
wooden table.
What was he even doing?
Harry pressed the tip of his wand to his temple, removing a long string of memories. They floated
to the bottom of the basin, swirling. Harry took a deep breath before leaning forward.
It was the Yule Ball. Harry quickly found himself and Ron sitting at their table, sulking. Harry
snorted. They looked positively as miserable as Harry remembered—watching Cho and Cedric
dance circles around the room. Then Harry found Draco talking animatedly with Pansy. He was
smiling genuinely, light and weightless as Blaise told a joke of sorts. Harry wasn't confident in the
limitations of memories, but he wandered closer all the same.
"How sad," said Pansy, pouting. "Perfect Potty and the Weasel got dumped. Now's your chance,
Draco."
Draco's smile vanished, turning towards the sulking Ron and Harry. That's when his younger self
looked over at the group of Slytherins, catching Draco's eye. The boys stared at each other for a
beat before Draco ripped his gaze away, his pale cheeks a flaming red. That had been the first time
Harry caught Draco staring. Then he'd blushed. Harry had always assumed it was Draco's
continued disapproval of Harry's position as Champion.
"Shove it, Pans," snapped Draco, his cheeks growing redder still.
"If you ask Potter to dance, I'll ask Weasley."
Draco glared at her. "You and I both know that's never going to happen."
Pansy shrugged, taking a sip of her punch. "Shame. There's something about those rags Weasley is
wearing that's almost…charming? And you know I hate to be upstaged by a date. That would not
be a problem."
Draco was looking at the younger Harry again, whose attention was clearly back on Cho and
Cedric.
"Odd that he has a thing for Seekers," said Blaise smugly. "Just not you."
Harry jumped as Draco smashed his glass on the floor, face contorted with rage. He spun on his
heel and stalked towards the exit.
He remembered Draco storming from the Great Hall, curious what had happened, though not
enough to follow the boy—a favourite pastime in future years.
The scenes shifted to every fleeting moment Harry caught Draco staring: in classes, the pitch, the
Great Hall, sneering almost immediately when Harry caught his eye. But before the sneer…
Draco's eyes told a different story—the same as Harry's own in time.
Harry had thought he'd been dreaming—seeing what he wished to see. It was obvious. Draco had
fancied Harry in school.
Harry himself had been in denial for so long. He'd hated himself for it. What was he doing giving
any fucks for the selfish, sneering bigot with his shit family? Draco had always been handsome,
and Harry couldn't fault himself for noticing…often. But the moment he knew there were feelings
involved…he'd never forget it.
Harry had never told anyone before—about sneaking off to the hospital wing to see Draco that
night. The night of the bathroom incident. He knew the younger Harry would be sitting in the chair
at Draco's bedside, under the invisibility cloak.
Harry approached the bed, watching the younger Draco sleep, wrapped in bandages from the
violence of his own making. His chest tightened, and he wanted to reach down and grab the boy's
hand, but another hand got there first.
The younger Harry let the invisibility cloak slide off his shoulders, eyes red and cheeks soaked
with tears. He was trembling.
"I'm so sorry," the younger Harry whispered shakily. "I didn't know. I d-didn't know."
Harry's eyes widened as he looked from his younger self's crippled form to Draco, whose eyes were
open and staring at the sobbing boy. Draco's eyes closed, and the blond shifted. Harry was yanked
forward from the chair as Draco pulled his hand up with Harry's against his bandaged chest. At the
time, Harry thought it had been done unconsciously in sleep, afraid to pull away in case it would
disturb him. So, the two Harrys sat at Draco's bedside in silence.
When the younger Harry leaned forward, Harry almost looked away. Even as a memory of his
own, it felt voyeuristic—the moment far more intimate than he'd remembered. The boy kissed
across the bandages on Draco's face before meeting his lips, his fingers running through the blond
fringe.
When his younger self pulled back from the kiss, he slowly released his hand from Draco's grip.
The younger Harry turned to throw the cloak over his head, cheeks still stained with tears. That's
when Harry saw them—Draco's tears, his now empty hand clutching the sheets.
Then what had Harry done? He'd abandoned his feelings just like the Prince's textbook and all the
other hidden things in the Room of Requirement. Then, mere days later, he kissed Ginny in front of
the entire Gryffindor common room, intending to forget Draco. He had feelings for Ginny. Of
course, he did. But choosing Ginny had been the simpler path, and he hated to admit it to himself.
Then he'd witnessed Draco in the tower with Dumbledore, trembling with fear as he pointed his
wand at the man. The shake of his voice and the tears on his cheeks were enough to convince
Harry of Draco's heart. He was a boy cornered. Thankfully, Snape had come to Draco's rescue,
shielding him from the horrors of cold-blooded murder. When Snape had taken Draco with him,
Harry felt a part of him break. He didn't know if he'd see Draco again. That's when he knew he
needed to end things with Ginny.
Harry had thought he'd found his chance after the war, the day of Draco's trial. He'd used every
resource he had to help Narcissa and Draco.
"Goodbye, Potter. You've done your job as the Saviour. Now leave me the fuck alone."
That had been the end of it. Apart from that one night, so many years ago. But that had been
nothing. Less than nothing.
Just another drunken mistake.
When Harry finally managed to pull himself from the Pensieve, his own face was damp with tears.
There was too much pain in their past for a hopeful future. Harry was starting afresh, wasn't he?
That didn't mean travelling down paths uncharted but forming new ones.
Harry had a chance for a fresh start with someone, free of baggage and broken hearts—a potential
future with Lucah. Harry needed to keep everything he'd ever thought, felt or shared with Draco
safely tucked away where it belonged—in the past.
-----
In his nearly twenty years at The Quibbler, Draco had yet to call in a sick day. Not that there was
anyone to call. Draco was the Editor-In-Chief, after all, and Luna wouldn't notice his absence even
if she showed up in the first place.
He rolled over in bed, reaching to grab his phone off the nightstand. Chills ran through his body as
he clicked the chat notification.
Jamie
Today 7:12 AM
Jamie: Tomorrow can't come soon enough.
Today 8:25 AM
Lucah: Aren't you a bit…nervous?
Jamie: I'm terrified. *anxious emoji*
Lucah: Part of me wishes things could stay like this.
Jamie: You don't mean that…
Lucah: No. Of course not. I just don't know what I'd do if I didn't live up to your expectations.
Lucah: What if I'm not what you want?
Jamie: What brought all this on? Lucah, I can't wait to meet you. I know it hasn't been that long…
it's really wild when you think about it…
Jamie: Sorry for sounding corny, but I think it could be fate.
Jamie: Us meeting like this.
Jamie: Merlin. I want to kiss you so badly.
Jamie: Would you hate me if I kissed you in front of everyone in the restaurant?
Draco sucked in a breath as his heart fluttered. If Harry kissed him in public as he had in Draco's
kitchen or any of their previous kisses for that matter, Draco would surely faint. He wanted to kiss
Harry again. And again. That is, if Harry wanted to kiss Draco at all, after this.
Jamie
Lucah: No, I wouldn't.
Lucah: Though a part of me is laughing at the thought of you going up to the wrong person and
snogging some unsuspecting bloke senseless.
Jamie: Oh God *laughing emoji*
Jamie: You'll tell me what you're wearing, right? But it's got to be something unique. Something
tells me you have something or several that fit the bill?
Lucah: Does a tailored three-piece robin's egg blue suit suffice?
Jamie: You actually own something like that?
Lucah: It has peacocks on it.
Jamie: I guess joggers and a vest are out. *sad-tear emoji*
Lucah: OH MY GOD, YOU WOULD NOT!
Jamie: *laughing emoji*
Jamie: No. I'll try and look semi-decent for you. I promise.
Lucah: Heaven, help me. My poor heart.
Jamie: Don't worry. I'll take care of it.
Draco wanted to cry. He could feel the tears stinging at the corner of his eyes.
Jamie
Lucah: Jamie…
Lucah: You don't know what you're saying.
Lucah: What you're getting yourself into…with me.
Jamie: All that matters is that it's you, Lucah.
Lucah: You're too good for me, Jamie.
Jamie: No. I'm the good you deserve.
Jamie: And you're mine.
The tears won out, streaming down Draco's cheeks. He curled up in his bed, paralysed by so many
conflicting emotions—anxiety, excitement, fear, devastation, elation, nausea, mortification,
anticipation, dread.
Love.
If Harry rejected him, Draco wasn't sure he'd be able to come back from it—to move on. Not this
time. Not that he ever truly had.
Draco could still taste Harry on his lips, smell him on his sheets. He had to blink back more tears
as the minutes ticked by, ever closer to the night of reckoning. Had Draco gone about it all wrong?
Should he have kept Harry at arm's length? It was far too late to know.
Jamie
Lucah: You may be more than I deserve, but you're the one I want.
Jamie: Good.
Jamie: So I was wondering…can I have your number?
Jamie: It seems silly to keep this up in the app, don't you think?
Jamie: I'd really like to hear your voice.
Draco stiffened, his thumbs hovering over the screen. He knew that would be impossible. Harry
would recognise Draco's voice immediately.
Jamie
Lucah: I'll give it to you at the restaurant. If you decide you actually wish to continue talking to
me afterwards, of course.
Jamie: Are you really that worried I won't want to? This doesn't seem like you.
Lucah: It's not like me, no. But even the most confident man can feel insecure at times.
Lucah: I do have a question
Lucah: About your nemesis…
Jamie: …what about him?
Lucah: If he had told you, back in school, that he returned your…feelings. What would you have
done?
Jamie: I'm not sure. That was a long time ago.
Lucah: Yes, it was.
Lucah: What about today?
Jamie: Today?
Jamie: You mean if he told me today?
Jamie: He wouldn't.
Jamie: He doesn't.
Lucah: If you say so, Jamie.
Delivered
-----
"If you say so, Harry."
Harry ran his hand across his face as he leaned back against the headboard. No. There wasn't
anything between him and Draco. Not anymore. Sure, Harry was attracted to Draco, and their
chemistry was undeniable. It had been purely physical—a drunken mistake. And all the days since
then—only a game to Draco.
Harry tried not to think about that night, those shining silver eyes mere centimetres from Harry's
own. Pale, flushed skin. Pink, petal-soft lips. The taunts and teasing. blond hair swaying back and
forth. Slender fingers intertwined with his own.
He needed to forget. If he trusted himself with a Memory Charm, he'd have considered it. Harry
required new encounters to dull the old. Lucah wanted Harry, and Harry wanted Lucah. It felt
genuine. No games. Harry would have to be crazy to walk away before he even gave it a chance.
Lucah
Jamie: What about you, then?
Lucah: What about me?
Jamie: You can't ask me that and not expect me to do the same.
Jamie: If Mr Heartbreaker told you he fancied you in school…
Jamie: What would you have done?
Lucah: Ah. That.
Lucah: I would have spit in his face.
Jamie: What?!
Lucah: Well, as you have probably previously gathered, I was a bit of a shit growing up.
Jamie: Definitely gathered. *winking emoji*
Lucah: *eye-roll emoji*
Lucah: Now that I think about it. I think I did spit in his face…metaphorically.
Lucah: Well. I yelled at him, so…perhaps I did spit on him.
Lucah: According to Daisy, said nemesis did try to confess, but I don't believe her. No way in his
right mind would he want me after everything I'd done…
Jamie: You were that bad, huh?
Lucah: That's an understatement.
Jamie: Do you regret it?
Lucah: I believe I told you before that I regret very much. So, yes. I regret it immensely.
Jamie: Then, isn't that what counts?
Lucah: It's so easy for you to say when you don't know what it is that I've done to him. Or to
others…
Jamie: I don't know, Lucah. He was the biggest arse. Shit to my friends. But I fancied him
anyway. What does that say about me?
Lucah: That you were dropped a few too many times as a child.
Lucah: Or perhaps you have a bit of a degradation kink? *monocle emoji*
Jamie: Yeah. Most likely. *sweat-smile emoji*
Lucah: How very interesting… *smirking emoji*
Harry's stomach fluttered. It was too early for him to be this hot and bothered, especially with a
conversation so closely tied to Draco.
Lucah
Jamie: And today? If he told you…
Lucah: I'm not sure you'd like my answer.
Jamie: Oh.
Jamie: I guess I'll own up to it and say you'd probably not like mine either.
Jamie: I mean, they were our first loves, right?
Lucah: Indeed.
Jamie: But that doesn't mean we can't have new ones…
Lucah: What are you saying?

Jamie: I'll tell you tomorrow.
Delivered
Chapter 7
Saturday, 11th July
"Your turn, mate. Nervous?"
Harry shot Ron an incredulous look. "I'm a mess, and you know it."
Ron raised his hands in mock surrender. "That's fair. Hard to be in love with two blokes at once."
"I'm not in love with Draco!"
"Yeah, okay," said Ron flatly, tapping Harry on the shoulder. "I'm just saying. When you meet this
guy—Lucah. Think long and hard about what you want."
"I know what I want," said Harry, shrugging off Ron's hand. "There's nothing to think about."
Ron took a step back, leaning against the wall. "Fair enough. It's your love life."
"Yeah. It is."
With one last assessment in the entry hall mirror, Harry deemed himself presentable. His hair
would always be a bit of a mess, but at least managing a pressed shirt and tailored trousers left
Harry feeling confident. Even if it wasn't a three-piece peacock suit.
He gave Ron one last nervous smile as he shrugged on his jacket.
"Well. I'll see you later if this all goes to shit?" asked Harry, chuckling nervously.
Ron's eyes twinkled as he grinned. "Oh, it won't."
Harry exhaled deeply. "I sure hope not."
The two men said their goodbyes before Ron took off by Floo, and Harry pulled out his phone.
Lucah
Today 6:27 PM
Jamie: On my way out. See you soon?
Lucah: See you soon.
Harry took a deep breath as he slipped out the front door.
-----
"Do you have a reservation?" asked the young host as Harry entered the restaurant.
Harry's eyes widened at the opulence of the establishment: gold and crystal chandeliers, Rococo-
style tables and chairs, cloth napkins laden with place settings similar to his near-lunch at Draco's.
Lucah appeared to have expensive taste, and Harry felt extremely underdressed.
"Uhm, yes," said Harry. "Lucah? I think?"
The young man scanned his list, nodding as he looked up at Harry. "You're the first to arrive. We
have your table ready if you would follow me."
Harry gave the man an anxious smile, tugging at his collar as he followed the host across the
dining room. They winded towards the back of the restaurant and out onto a stone patio
overlooking a small koi pond. There was a small table set for two, with a small bouquet of white
roses. A few other tables scattered the patio space, but they had been placed a good distance apart
to allow for privacy. Harry was thankful for it. The evening was warm, with a gentle breeze
rustling the nearby trees. The setting sun illuminated every surface with soft pink and orange hues.
The host gestured for Harry to sit, and he settled in the chair with its back to the restaurant,
deciding that if he had to wait, he'd distract himself watching the koi swimming in circles around
one another, as if in an elegant, eternal dance.
Lucah
Today 6:27 PM
Today 6:51 PM
Jamie: I'm here.
Delivered
Harry's hands were shaking, his heart pumping furiously as the minutes ticked by. His pocket
vibrated, and Harry pulled out his phone.
Lucah
Today 6:27 PM
Today 6:51 PM
Jamie: I'm here.
Today 6:57 PM
Lucah: Just arrived.
Harry set his phone down on the table, closing his eyes as he took deep, calming breaths. He
considered turning around to sneak an early glance, but he was too—
"Scared, Potter?"
Harry froze, the hair on the back of his neck prickling as a rush of cold trickled down his spine.
Harry sucked in a shaky breath, turning in his seat to meet shining silver eyes.
"Draco," Harry croaked. "What are you—"
Harry took in the man's nervous expression, the small smile, hands in his pockets. He'd left his hair
down; half draped across his shoulder. It seemed to glow with the pink and orange hues of the
setting sun. The man's suit was blue and covered in small embroidered peacocks.
It all clicked into place.
"Oh my God," whispered Harry, rising to his feet. "You're Lucah."
Draco's expression softened, his signature smirk pulling at the corner of his mouth. "Jamie."
"Think long and hard about what you want."
Harry didn't have to.
Two strides, and Harry was kissing him, his fingers slipping into the sleek blond hair that
captivated his senses. Draco let out a small gasp against Harry's lips before wrapping his own arms
around Harry as he pulled him flush against him. Draco released a soft moan as Harry's grip
tightened in his hair, their hips pressed firmly together.
Draco was Lucah. Lucah was Draco. All of his conflicting emotions were so conveniently
unnecessary. He didn't need to force Draco into the past. He was Harry's past, present, and future.
"Oi! Get a room!" crowed a man from a nearby table.
They broke the kiss, panting and still tangled in each other's arms. Harry blushed, looking over
Draco's shoulder at the older man shaking his head.
"I'm such a daft bastard," said Harry, a bit breathlessly.
Draco huffed out a laugh. "That's nothing new, Potter. Ow!"
Harry gave a sharp tug to Draco's hair, but the man's eyes flashed as a blush rose in his cheeks,
sending shocks of pleasure to Harry's groin. He released his hold, allowing his hand to slide down
the nape of Draco's neck.
"Should we…er…eat?" asked Harry.
"Yes," said Draco, smiling devilishly. "But I don't think they have what I'm craving."
Draco spun in Harry's arms, pulling out his wand. By the dreamy looks on the nearby faces, Harry
realised Draco must have cast a wordless Confundus Charm. He wrapped his arms tightly around
Harry, smirking as they twisted into darkness. They landed with a CRACK in the middle of Draco's
bedroom, already ripping and tugging at clothing as they kissed feverishly.
"Scorpius?" asked Harry, gasping between kisses.
"Gone," clipped Draco.
Harry tripped as he attempted to kick off his trousers, falling back onto the bed. It felt like deja vu;
Draco, standing nearly naked before him in only his pants. Harry propped himself up on his elbows
as Draco helped with Harry's socks and trousers.
Draco climbed onto the bed, straddling Harry's hips as he leaned forward to capture Harry's mouth.
Harry's hands roamed across Draco's back, sliding down to cup the man's arse in his hands. Harry
pressed their hips together, and Draco mewled into his mouth. Draco's fingers were in Harry's hair,
nails dragging against his scalp as their tongues intertwined, nipping at each other's lips. The
familiar scent of Draco's sheets made Harry dizzy with need. He slipped his thumbs under the
waistband of Draco's pants, but the man grabbed hold of his arms. Harry looked up at him in
confusion.
"No. Not yet. I want to savour this," Draco breathed huskily. His hands found Harry's cheeks. "Just.
Kiss me, Harry."
Harry engulfed Draco in his arms, golden hair threading through his fingers. Their kiss began soft
and slow, Harry's hands once again caressing Draco's shoulders and down his back. Draco's weight
against him felt so familiar and yet so new. Harry's cock was aching, and the feel of Draco's
erection pressing into him made it difficult to hold back.
"Fuck, this is torture," breathed Harry, rolling on top of the man, using a hand to pin Draco's wrists
above his head.
The blond let out a gasp as Harry's mouth found Draco's neck, sucking and nipping fresh marks
onto the pale skin. Harry slid slowly down, his mouth exploring every centimetre of Draco's
hairless, heaving chest. Harry rolled each stiff nipple between his tongue and teeth, and Draco
gasped sharply as he arched his back, tugging against Harry's grip.
"Harry, uhnnn," Draco whined with desperation. "Let me…"
Harry released the man's wrists. His hands immediately threaded in Harry's hair. Draco tugged
gently as he lifted his hips, erection grinding against Harry's chest. Harry let out a groan as his
tongue trailed along the centre of Draco's stomach, circling his navel. His hands gripped the dip of
Draco's waist before sliding down to his hips. Draco did not stop him when he pulled off the man's
pants, cock bobbing freely, stiff and red, its tip glistening with precome.
Harry tossed the pants to the floor, resuming his position between Draco's legs at the edge of the
bed. He didn't stop to think before grasping the base of Draco's leaking cock, wrapping his lips
around the head as he lapped at its tip.
"Oh, my God," Draco cried, arching his back further as Harry took him deep into his mouth.
With no experience of his own, he focused on what he enjoyed himself, exploring Draco's cock
with his tongue as he bobbed. The moans escaping the blond's lips were enough encouragement for
Harry to continue, his free hand grasping Draco's thigh as he feasted on him, his eyes lifting to
admire Draco writhing, face and chest flushed as he met Harry's eyes, looking utterly ruined. Harry
could taste the saltiness of Draco's precome, and Harry pulled back to focus on Draco's head. The
man cried out, and Harry smiled to himself.
"Fuck, Harry. I'm so close. More!"
Draco's grip on Harry's hair tightened, thrusting his hips upward, hitting the back of Harry's throat.
Harry coughed, slipping from Draco's cock just as Draco's climax rolled over him, crying out as
come splattered in streaks across his stomach. Harry wiped his mouth, and Draco let go of his hair,
his arms dropping limply to his sides as his chest rose and fell, his eyelids fluttering. He placed a
hand across his brow, his breath evening.
"Harry, my God," breathed Draco.

Draco's free hand reached for Harry and he walked his hands forward at Draco's sides, leaning
forward with his face above Draco's. "Was that…alright?"
Draco's brow furrowed as he huffed, "Was it alright?" His hands grasped the back of Harry's neck,
pulling him down for a kiss. "That was brilliant. Harry…I've dreamt of your mouth on my cock
since I was fourteen."
Harry's eyes widened. "Fuck, really?"
"What can I say? I was a degenerate."
Harry laughed, kissing him again. "This is all, you know, new territory. I won't be mad if I'm
rubbish or—"
Draco placed a finger over Harry's mouth. "Harry," said Draco, huskily, looking from Harry's eyes
down across his chest to the noticeable bulge in his pants. "You're far too well equipped to be
rubbish at anything."
Draco's arm slipped between Harry's, cupping his sizable package in his hand. The fabric was
damp from Harry's precome, so close to climaxing himself just from watching Draco's face as he
came.
The blond's eyes flashed, chewing his lip as he palmed Harry's erection. Harry's arms crumpled
under the touch, propped up on his elbows, his chest hair brushing against Draco's smooth skin,
making the blond shudder beneath him. Harry kissed Draco just as the blond's hand slipped
beneath the waistband of his pants, taking Harry in hand as Draco began to stroke him lazily. Harry
moaned into Draco's mouth, breaking the kiss with a sharp gasp as Draco squeezed gently. Harry
groaned, and Draco released him as Harry pushed himself back to standing, ridding himself of his
last item of clothing.
Fully naked between the blond's legs, Draco let out a whimper as he took in the sight of Harry's
cock, thick and pulsing, its leaking tip glistening as it bobbed above Draco's. Harry stared down at
Draco's flushed face, the cascade of hair across the sheets, down to his come splattered chest.
Draco hadn't reached for his wand, letting the liquid cool against his pale skin. He was so
beautiful, and Harry only wanted more. He took himself in hand, stroking slowly. Harry wouldn't
last long.
"Draco," pleaded Harry.
The blond smirked as he raised himself to sit at the edge of the bed. Draco stared up at Harry as he
ran his fingers across Harry's chest as he stood, their cocks brushing as he kissed Harry. Draco
broke the kiss just before Harry lost control.
"On your back, Potter."
Harry's cock throbbed in anticipation, and he slowly turned with Draco, sliding back onto the bed.
He watched as Draco climbed over him to straddle Harry's hips, his bollocks close to brushing
against Harry's cock. He placed his hands on Draco's thighs, sliding up across his hips and to his
waist. He was so slender and perfect. Even with his sharp, angular features, he felt soft under
Harry's hands.
Draco pulled Harry's wand hand from his waist, holding Harry's gaze as he dragged Harry's fingers
across his come-slick stomach. Harry sucked in a breath as Draco lifted the hand to his mouth, and
licked his come from Harry's little finger. Harry watched Draco in awe, so far beyond arousal that
he was ready to pin the tease to the bed and pound him senseless, but he'd let Draco have his fun—
this time.
With Harry's fingers slick with come, Draco guided his hand between his legs and beneath his
bollocks. He held Harry's gaze as he leaned forward on his opposite arm, his back arched with his
arse spread. He guided Harry's fingers to his puckered hole, letting out a sharp moan as Harry took
control, smearing the come as he circled Draco's entrance. The blond placed both of his hands on
Harry's shoulders, his face in the crook of his neck as he moaned under Harry's ministrations.
Harry placed a finger at the centre of the pinched skin. "Are you…ready?"
"Nnnnn, yes, Daddy," Draco whimpered, his hot breath against Harry's neck. "Please."
Harry's cock pulsed as pleasure rippled through his body. Harry loved to be called Daddy, and
hearing Draco say it again was nearly enough for Harry to come on the spot. Harry pushed the tip
of his finger past the tight ring of muscles, clenching around his first knuckle. It was an entirely
new sensation, like a velvet vice around his finger.
Draco moaned against his shoulder. "Don't stop, Daddy. Don't stop."
Harry's other hand cupped Draco's arse cheek as he forced his finger inside as far as he could at his
current angle. Draco was already trembling against him, and Harry began to thrust his finger in and
out of the man's tight channel, relishing in Draco's cries, nails digging into Harry's skin. As Draco
began to relax, Harry pressed in a second finger, working Draco open as his fingers curled in search
of the magic button. Harry found the bundle of nerves, and Draco cried out, digging his nails and
teeth into Harry, making him wince at the pain, though not unwelcome. Harry pulled Draco's arse
forward, allowing him a better range of motion as his fingers fucked Draco open.
"More," murmured Draco, panting. "Another."
He sounded positively ruined, and Harry had barely begun. There was slight friction building as the
come began to dry on his fingers, and Harry whispered a wandless lubrication spell as he pushed a
third finger inside. The squelching sounds were positively lewd. Harry had managed a couple more
prods at Draco's prostate before the blond lifted his head and cried, "Enough!"
Reluctantly, Harry pulled his fingers from Draco's hole, and the man kissed Harry hungrily. Draco
pulled himself upright on his knees above Harry. Tufts of hair clung to Draco's chest as the rest fell
sweeping along his back. Harry gasped as Draco took Harry's overly sensitive cock in hand.
"Draco, I–I'm not going to last."
Draco smirked. "Don't worry, Daddy," he purred. "Baby will take care of you."
A growl rumbled in Harry's chest, his fingers digging into Draco's thighs as the man lined Harry up
with his slick entrance.
As if Draco couldn't be any more perfect: fucking Baby?! Harry was going to fill his Baby so full...
"That's it, Baby," Harry grumbled. "Daddy's so hard for you."
Their eyes remained locked as the tip of Harry's cock breached Draco's tight entrance, both men
groaning in pleasure. Draco began to slowly sink onto Harry, his own erection bobbing and
leaking. Harry's head rolled back as the pleasure of it consumed him. Draco's face pinched in
discomfort, and Harry grabbed a tight hold of his waist to stop Draco from sinking further, but the
blond pressed on, using his full weight to take Harry in completely.
Both Harry and Draco groaned. It felt so different from sex with Ginny. Draco had swallowed
Harry whole, his tight heat almost too much for Harry's limited self-control. Harry's hands
remained loosely on Draco's waist as the blond acclimatised to Harry's cock.
"Are you okay, Baby?" asked Harry, with what little breath he had left in his lungs.
Draco's hands slid down Harry's arms as he leaned forward, settling on his shoulders, his blond hair
draping like curtains around Harry's face. Harry stared at Draco's navel, fully aware that he was
inside Draco—something Harry had only ever dreamed of.
"Your cock feels so good, Daddy." The words came out slow and sensual, and Harry's skin prickled
with arousal as his cock pulsed inside the man.
Harry released Draco's waist to lift a hand to the blond's neck, pulling him down for a fierce kiss
before breaking away.
"Fuck me, Baby," Harry commanded.
Draco's breath hitched, but he did not hesitate. He raised his hips, sliding painfully slowly up
Harry's shaft, then slowly back down. Harry's eyes rolled to the back of his head, overwhelmed by
the sensation of Draco riding his cock. Draco did it again, and once more, before pausing to run his
fingers across Harry's chest. After a few breaths, he repeated the motion, riding Harry at a steady,
controlled pace before pausing again. One bob. Then two. Pause.
Draco was edging Harry.
He knew how close Harry was—ready to explode at any moment. Harry wanted to come inside
Draco so badly. He wanted to claim the man as his own. All he'd dreamed about since their first
night together.
"Uhhhn, Daddy," Draco cooed. "I love—I love Daddy's cock. So full..."
"You're doing so good," said Harry, petting Draco's hair and brushing Draco's cheek. "Fuck, you're
so tight. So tight around Daddy's big cock."
Draco melted under Harry's words. The blond only managed a few more rounds before Harry had
enough waiting. He grasped Draco's waist tightly, lifting the man before slamming him down on
his cock as his hips bucked upwards. Draco's head fell back, mouth open as his cries of pleasure
echoed through the bedroom. Harry did it again, Draco's bollocks slapping against Harry's stomach.
Soon Draco matched his thrusts, rising and falling back on Harry's cock with vigour as Harry
bucked up into him. The way Draco's hair fluttered with each thrust was driving Harry wild. Draco
was driving him wild.
In a final upward thrust, Harry's resolve crumbled, spilling his seed deep inside Draco in forceful
bursts. Harry grabbed Draco's cock, and the man's cry rattled Harry's bones as Draco came, hot
semen splattering across Harry's stomach. Draco collapsed against him, their breathing ragged as
Harry pulled the blond close, fingers in his hair, and kissed Draco's head.
Harry's softening cock slipped from Draco, his come leaking onto his thigh. Both men worked to
slow their breathing, and Draco's hand found Harry's, interlocking their fingers. When Draco lifted
his head and smiled dreamily, overflowing with joy and affection, Harry knew.
"I love you," said Harry.
Draco's breath hitched, eyes widening as his mouth fell open. Harry raised his hand to brush
Draco's cheek, his fingers threading into the soft blond hair. Draco leaned into the touch. Harry's
heart exploded in his chest as tears stung the corner of his eyes. This. This is what happiness felt
like.
"But you can't," Draco whispered.
Harry's stomach plummeted. "Sorry?"
"It's not me," choked Draco through a small sob. "It's Lucah."
"Draco. You're Lucah."
The blond released himself from Harry's embrace, sitting upright with his shoulders slumped. Harry
was on the verge of a panic, completely whiplashed from the abrupt change in Draco. They'd just
made love, life-altering and mind-blowing, bringing them closer together than ever before, and
now Draco was pulling away.
"You made it very clear that you didn't want me," said Draco harshly. "You chose him."
"Him?" Harry huffed in exasperation. "There's no him! You're him!"
"But you didn't know that!"
"Wait," said Harry, propping himself on his elbows. "Did you know?"
Draco crossed his arms in front of his chest as if to shield himself from Harry's question. "Since
Longbottom's party," he murmured.
Realisation rushed over Harry. "When you dropped your glass. After I told you I worked in a
coffee shop," said Harry, pulling himself upright, cradling Draco in his lap, not wanting the man to
slip away. Harry felt a twinge of betrayal. "Why didn't you tell me?"
"Oh, right," Draco scoffed. "You discover you've been romantically involved with your childhood
rival, the first thing you think is, 'Yes. I'll tell him. What a brilliant idea. He'll be so pleased!'"
"I would have been! Draco. Gods, we'd just slept together and it was—well, it turned my life
upside down. It was driving me mad, you were driving me mad. You should have told me that day
at the café."
Draco rolled his eyes. "Ah, yes. That lovely chat where you told me what a huge mistake it was."
"Why are you being like this?" asked Harry, the overwhelming happiness dissolving into raw pain
and desperation. "What did you expect me to say? I was the one in the dark, wasn't I? We'd been
drunk. We hadn't spoken a word to one another in over twenty years. What would make me think
you'd want anything more than a quick shag and be on your way?"
"If I hadn't wanted more, I wouldn't have done it at all!" said Draco sharply. "What do you take me
for? Some slag?"
The tightness returned to Harry's chest. "Of course not!"
This was wrong. Why did things with Draco always have to go so wrong? Harry didn't know what
to say to bring Draco back to him, so instead of telling, he showed him. Harry wrapped an arm
around Draco's waist as the other hand cupped the nape of Draco's neck, pulling him in for a
passionate kiss. He could taste the salt from Draco's tears as the man clung desperately to Harry.
Draco broke the kiss. "You're the one with no place wanting me," said Draco softly. "I was awful
to you."
"Haven't we been over this?" asked Harry. "I want you, Draco. I want to be with you. Hell, I've
wanted you since sixth year."
Draco shook his head. "That's not true. You and Ginny—" Draco started, but Harry cut him off.
"I broke up with Ginny. I knew it wasn't fair. That I was lying to myself. I couldn't stay with her
when I knew I wanted to be with someone else."
Draco's brow furrowed. "But you married her."
"Yeah, I did. But not until years later. I'd planned to tell you how I felt, but it was made explicitly
clear that you wanted nothing to do with me."
Draco's face fell. "After my trial."
"Yeah," said Harry, dragging a thumb across Draco's cheek. "So, I forced myself to move on. But
the truth is, I never really did. I just got really good at pretending."
Wet silver eyes met green. "I don't deserve it. You."
Harry smiled. "So you said." He combed his fingers through Draco's hair, and the man shuddered.
"I've been such a mess. To think I'd been fighting with myself over feelings for the same damned
person. It's been fucking maddening."
A smile twitched at the corner of Draco's mouth.
"You're just loving this, aren't you?" Harry scowled as he shoved Draco's arm playfully. "You're
goading me on, you arsehole!"
Draco's fiendish smile broadened as he wrapped his arms around Harry's neck. "Not many blokes
can say they managed to make a man fall in love with them…twice. Obviously, if I were to have a
romantic rival, the only suitable candidate would be myself."
"Fuck you, Malfoy."
"Oh, Potter," Draco purred, fingers caressing the nape of Harry's neck. "You just did."
Harry huffed out a laugh. "Just kiss me, you git."
Draco laughed and pressed their mouths together. His grip on Harry's neck tightened as Harry
pulled Draco against him, their chests still sticky with Draco's come. As they clung to one another,
it was apparent that neither of them were ever going to let the other go.
With reluctance, Harry pulled back. "We should get cleaned up," he said, reaching for Draco's
wand.
Draco grabbed Harry's wrist and shook his head. "I believe I fancy a shower."
Harry's face fell. He'd been hoping to curl up in bed together for an indeterminate amount of time.
Perhaps forever.
Draco smirked. "With you, Harry. Don't look at me like an abandoned puppy."
He brushed his lips against Harry's, rolling out of his lap to sit on the edge of the bed. Facing away
from Harry, Draco used his fingers to comb through his hair which was rippling across his bare
back. Harry would marry that hair.
Draco peeked over his shoulder before standing, the sheen of Harry's come smeared along the
inside of his thighs, and Harry could feel his cock swelling again. Draco sauntered over to the
bathroom and turned on the shower. Harry placed his hands on his knees, still in a daze of near
disbelief. Harry rose to his feet, reaching down to grab his wand. He cast a Cleaning Charm on the
bed, which remade itself into something less haphazard.
"Coming, Harry?"
Soon enough, thought Harry.
He set the wand and his glasses on the nightstand before following Draco into the bathroom.
-----
Draco was already in the shower when Harry slipped in behind him. Harry's hands slid against
Draco's stomach, placing a kiss at the nape of his neck. Draco felt the rush of pleasure down his
spine from the simple contact. He felt empty with the absence of Harry's cock, the ghost of the
sensation lingering, and Draco wanted more. Now that Harry had got off once, he could give Draco
what he desperately craved.
Draco spun in Harry's arms, picking up a bar of soap from over Harry's shoulder. Draco lathered the
soap on a flannel and proceeded to wash every plane and curve of Harry's gorgeous body. His
bedroom had been dimly lit, neither of them taking the time to bother with the lights, too consumed
with lust. In the bright incandescence of the bathroom, Draco could relish Harry's stocky, muscular
form, a bit soft around his middle. Rivulets of hot water fell from Harry's chest hair, collected in
clusters of dark curls as the suds were rinsed away.
Such a delicious Daddy, Draco thought to himself, his fingers running across Harry's chest. The
cloth travelled lower, and Draco ran the flannel along Harry's hardening shaft.
"Why, hello there," purred Draco, taking extra care in cleansing his favourite part of Harry's
anatomy thoroughly…and languidly.
Harry groaned as his eyelids fluttered. "Tease."
Draco smiled coyly. "You knew that already."
Harry grabbed Draco's wrists, and the cloth fell to the floor as Harry pinned him against the cool
tiles, kissing him passionately. Draco arched against Harry as he opened his mouth, eager to taste
the man again. Draco managed to twist out of Harry's grip with the aid of his slippery skin, turning
around to press his forearms against the wall as he ground his arse against Harry's cock. Harry
grabbed Draco's hips in a bruising grip, his cock sliding along the cleft of his cheeks. The feel of
Harry's hardness slipping against Draco's entrance drove him wild with need.
"Fuck me, Daddy," Draco begged. "I need your cock."
"And I'll give it to you. You're such a little slut for Daddy."
Draco's cock pulsed at the utterance of Harry's lewd words. "Yes! I need Daddy—Daddy's cock
deep inside me."
Harry leaned forward and bit into Draco's shoulder, and he cried out, arching his back to open
himself wider. Harry placed the tip of his cock against Draco's hole, dripping with fresh lubricant,
and slowly pushed himself inside. Draco gasped, still not used to the stretch of it, but that would
ease with time. He didn't care. He only wanted Harry. Harry fucking him unconscious with his
glorious cock.
Fully sheathed, Harry pulled out slightly before snapping his hips forward. After a few more quick,
shallow thrusts, it was clear that Harry was holding back. This was only his second experience with
anal sex, and the first where he had complete control. It would take time for them to learn and
explore each other's bodies. Draco would have to be explicitly clear about what he wanted. He
wanted to be used—Daddy's little fucktoy.
"Harder, Daddy! Destroy me!" Draco growled.
"Baby…yes," Harry breathed. "You've been so good. You deserve a proper fucking."
Harry only hesitated a moment before he quickened his thrusts, his confidence and roughness
intensifying with each whip of his hips. Draco's cries echoed against the bathroom walls. As his
body rocked forward violently, his arms began to shake as he held himself away from the wall.
Harry took a fistful of Draco's wet hair, yanking his head back as he continued to wreck his abused
hole. Draco yelped as he came, splattering against the tiles.
Harry wrapped an arm around Draco's stomach, pulling him back against his chest, fist still tight in
Draco's hair as he turned the blond's head to capture his mouth. Three more brutal thrusts, and
Harry held himself flush against Draco's arse, cock buried deep, groaning against Draco's hot, wet
lips. As Draco's orgasm ebbed, he could feel Harry's cock pulsing, filling Draco with his come.
Draco raised a hand to hold the back of Harry's neck, deepening the kiss as Harry's hands explored
Draco's chest, grazing his sensitive nipples. Draco's moan shifted to a whine of disappointment as
Harry's softening cock slipped from him. Harry's grip slackened in Draco's hair, and the blond
turned to face Harry, wrapping his arms around the man's neck, in part to hold his lover close as
much as for support, his legs having turned to jelly. Harry walked Draco back against the wall, and
they kissed for some time, leaving lips bitten and swollen before Harry finally pulled back to meet
Draco's eyes.
"I think we'll need another wash," said Harry, smirking as he brushed the wet strands from Draco's
face.
Draco tapped Harry on the back lazily. "Then get to it," said Draco. "Chop chop."
Harry smirked. And if that dimple wasn't the cutest fucking thing Draco had ever seen.
"As you command, Your Majesty."
"That's more like it," said Draco smugly.
Draco released a sharp gasp as he felt a rush of cold through his abdomen and across his skin as
Harry cast a wandless Cleaning Charm. Harry chuckled.
"That's cheating." Draco pouted.
Harry kissed the corner of Draco's mouth before turning off the water. He grabbed a towel and
tossed it over Draco's head, rubbing vigorously.
"What are you doing?!" shrieked Draco, pushing Harry's hands away. He pulled the towel off his
head, glaring at Harry. "Are you trying to ruin my hair, you oaf?!" he snapped, pushing past Harry
to gape in horror at the mirror.
Harry bit back a laugh at the tangled mess upon Draco's head. "Sorry. I didn't want to cheat."
Draco rolled his eyes. "This is why yours is such a disaster!"
The men stepped out of the shower, and Draco pulled out a comb to carefully detangle his hair,
grumbling to himself before casting a wandless drying charm. Harry towelled himself off, tucking
it around his waist before wrapping his arms around Draco's middle, pulling him back to kiss the
crook of his neck.
"You always were cute when you scowled," Harry teased, resting his chin on Draco's shoulder,
staring at their reflection.
Draco's sour face softened, leaning his head against Harry's. "I'm glad you think so. It's a signature
Malfoy trait."
"Don't I know it," said Harry. "You're as cuddly as a cactus."
"I knew Jamie was a masochist," said Draco.
Harry slapped Draco's bare arse cheek before exiting the bathroom, walking across the room to
throw himself onto the bed.
"Fuck," cursed Harry, staring at the ceiling. "Now, I'm actually starving."
Draco laughed, walking over to sit next to Harry, running a hand across Harry's chest. "I've heard
successful first dates end with mushy peas and chips."
Harry peered up at Draco and smirked. "Sounds perfect."
-----
Sunday, 12th July
"Oh, thank Merlin. They're both here!"
Harry blinked, rubbing sleep from his eyes. Ron and Pansy were standing in the doorway to
Draco's bedroom, beaming at the two men entangled in the sheets.
"Atta boy, Harry," said Ron, winking.
There was a grumble beside Harry, and Draco shifted. He lifted his head, and Harry couldn't help
the snicker at the sight of Draco's hair. So much for all the careful combing the night before. The
man brushed it out of his face as he rolled over to stare in horror at their friends.
"Pansy, what the fuck?" spat Draco.
"Oh, don't mind us," she answered cheerily. "We'll just be in the living room. When you're ready,
we'll go get breakfast! Or rather, brunch by the look of the time."
Both men gaped at her as the door closed behind them, Ron sneaking another wink before the door
clicked shut.
"This has to stop," said Draco, scowling, throwing off the covers.
Wearing only his pants, Draco yanked open the bedroom door, slamming it shut behind him. Harry
could hear Draco's raised voice followed by Pansy's.
"This time, I mean it, Pans. You can't keep showing up here unannounced! As you've most
definitely noticed, I have a gentleman in my bed whom I would very much like to continue shagging
into next Tuesday! TMI? Too bad! You brought this on yourselves!"
"By all means, Draco. We are in no rush. And you won't have to worry about me for much longer."
"I—what?"
"We'll talk at the café."
The bedroom door flew open again, a smug look on Draco's face. "Rise and shine, darling. It's time
for brunch."
-----
"Did we have to come here?" asked Harry, looking around the coffee shop. His coffee shop.
Sean was over by the till, his eyebrow raised in question as he looked at Harry, nestled closely
beside Draco.
Isn't that the guy? Sean mouthed.
Harry smiled and shrugged.
Candice was not so subtly wiping down a nearby table, and Harry shot her a reproachful look. She
smirked, lifting her hand to rub her fingers together. 'Time to pay up,' it said.
Harry could already feel his pocket grow lighter. Wasn't there anything more interesting to these
people than his love life? The answer was clearly no.
Candice had cornered Harry earlier that week, asking for all the details regarding the mystery
blond who sent Harry into an absolute tizzy. He'd given her the abridged version, omitting the
more intimate details.
"I'm sorry, but I so ship you now."
"Excuse me?" asked Harry, gawking at her.
"This is just beyond adorable. You can't make this stuff up! A real-life enemies to lovers trope!"
"Enemies to—what? No, we aren't!"
"Uh, huh," said Candice, unconvinced. "That man isn't here to drink coffee, that's for damn sure.
What's a cup of Joe next to a steaming cup of Harry?"
"Oh, my God." Harry's cheeks flushed, shaking his hands in dismissal. "Just…no. It's not like that."
"Bet you £50 you two will be dating within the month."
Harry gritted his teeth. "You're on."
"Well," started Pansy. "When Draco told me you worked here, I had to pop in for myself, and I
have to say, my life is forever changed. You really do serve the best coffee." She took a sip of her
cappuccino, humming happily. "And I love the little jam tarts that I know shouldn't constitute as
breakfast, but I digress. My body, my choice."
"Quite," said Draco. "Now, what's so important that you dragged me so unceremoniously from the
sweltering embrace of my gorgeous lover—God of sex itself?”
Harry covered his face in his hands, cheeks flaming. "Jesus, Draco. We weren't even touching,"
hissed Harry.
"Oh, I promise you," purred Draco, his eyes flashing. "My subconscious was all over you."
"As delightful as this exchange is, can we get back to me, please, Draco?"
Draco extended a lazy hand, "By all means, Pansy. I'm at the edge of my seat. Quite literally. Why
are these chairs so small?"
Pansy glared at him before releasing a heavy sigh. She turned to look at Ron, whose ears were
already starting to redden.
"You're actually going to Egypt, aren't you?" asked Draco, resting an elbow on the table.
Harry's mouth fell open in surprise.
Pansy nodded, beaming at Ron. "For a month. If everything goes as planned, I'll come back and get
all my personal affairs in order, but I figured if this is what I think it is. Why wait?"
Ron smiled, leaning forward to kiss her forehead. "Fate doesn't lie."
They smiled at each other before turning to Harry and Draco.
"So," said Pansy. "Obviously, it's going…well with you two?"
Draco's cheeks flushed, and Harry grabbed Draco's hand under the table. "We're brilliant," said
Harry, smiling at his lover.
Pansy clapped her hands giddily. "Oh, this is so exciting. Harry, you have no idea how long this
man has been pining for you!"
"Pansy," said Draco through gritted teeth.
"It's really quite adorable. Over twenty years holding onto your childhood crush, and it finally
happens! You know, Draco. You can finally stop with those drawings now that you have the real
thing. Though they are quite lovely."
"Pans!"
"Do you mean the drawings of me? Yeah, they're really good, Draco."
Draco's face paled, his head whipping towards Harry. "You saw them?!
Harry shrugged. "I noticed the stack of drawings on your desk."
"But those ones weren't out in the open!" Draco exclaimed.
"I might have rifled through them…a bit," said Harry.
"You put your grubby fingers all over my priceless creations?"
Harry's gaze darkened. "You know I've had my fingers in worse places, Malfoy."
Ron choked on his coffee. "Alright. That is TMI."
Draco dragged a hand over his face, flushed with embarrassment.
"Hey," said Harry, petting the back of Draco's head. "It's really sweet when you think about it.
Sure, a bit stalker-ish, but I'll overlook it."
Draco dropped his hand, turning to glare at Harry. "Says the man who quite literally stalked me our
entire sixth year."
"Yep. But you'll overlook that too." Harry leaned forward to kiss Draco's nose.
"Bit wild innit? Who'd have thought, right?" said Ron, looking from Draco and Harry to Pansy.
She flashed him a dazzling smile, raising her cup towards the other two men. "To Fate," she said.
Ron raised his glass beside her, and Harry turned to Draco, who looked on the verge of tears. Harry
squeezed his hand, leaning forward to press his forehead against his. Harry closed his eyes and
smiled.
"To Fate."
Epilogue
Friday, 17th July
"One hour. That's all I give you," grumbled Draco.
Harry waved over to the table, currently occupied by Dean and Seamus. Hermione and Viktor were
up at the bar ordering drinks.
"Oh, stop it, Draco. It'll be fun."
"Yes, Daddy."
"Draco!" Harry hissed, cheeks heating.
"I swear to you, Harry. In less than an hour, I'll have you begging to leave…" he hummed in
Harry's ear.
Harry cleared his throat. "Ron and Pansy will be here soon. You'll be fine."
Draco rolled his eyes. "As if I don't get enough of them on the regular. Apologies if it doesn't tickle
me pink. But I can think of something else that would—"
"Draco! Hey!"
Dean was beaming at the blond as he waved them over, Harry looking from Dean to the kind smile
on Draco's face as he waved back. His stomach twisted, the sensation familiar. Not unlike when he
and Ron had caught Dean with Ginny all those years ago. Once again, the urge to jinx the man was
all-consuming.
"Hello, Dean," said Draco, eyes sparkling as he took the empty seat beside the man.
"Fancy seeing you here! It's been a while."
Harry's chair screeched against the floor as he sat down a bit roughly, scooting closer to Draco.
Draco's brow furrowed at Harry before turning back to Dean. "I'm sorry to have missed the last few
plein air sessions. Life got a bit—" Draco placed a hand on Harry's thigh and squeezed "—
complicated."
"It's alright," said Dean. "Maybe next time."
Harry relaxed. Draco and Dean must have been taking art courses together. Harry recalled how
talented Dean had been in school, and Draco could learn a lot from him.
Seamus, however, remained visibly agitated. He scowled as he let out a huff, crossing his arms.
"You weren't missed…" he mumbled under his breath.
"Behave yourself." Dean whacked Seamus on the arm. "I've told you. He's not even gay."
Harry burst out laughing, and Dean and Seamus jumped. Harry coughed loudly before clearing his
throat. "Sorry. Just…it's funny."
Dean's brow furrowed. "Why? Something funny about being gay, Harry?" he said tersely.
Harry's eyes widened, raising his hands in defence. "No! I didn't mean—"
"Dean, Dean, Dean. As a queer man yourself, your gaydar has severe room for improvement,"
Draco dragged his nails up the back of Harry's neck and into his hair. "As a matter a fact, I happen
to be quite gay." Draco winked at Seamus before turning to Harry. "Isn't that right, Harry?"
Harry did his best not to purr under Draco's languid ministrations. "Er…yeah."
"Wait…" said Dean, looking between Draco and Harry. "Are you two…"
"Polishing wands? Bobbing the broomstick? Gobbling the Dirigible Plums? Smuggling the Blast-
Ended Skrewt? Parsel-tonguing my Chamber of Secrets? All of the above, I assure you," said
Draco in a velvety drawl.
Seamus' face had gone beet red, his mouth gaping like a codfish.
"Well, that's…" said Dean, blinking.
Harry made a note not to take Draco anywhere. Ever again.
"Hi, Harry! Draco," greeted Hermione, beaming as she set a couple of Butterbeers in front of them.
Draco looked down at the bottle, and Hermione's smile wavered. "I can get you something else if
you like, Draco."
"Oh, no," said Draco. "This is perfectly adequate, thank you."
Draco picked up the bottle, inspecting it as if he'd never seen one in his life.
"What's wrong?" asked Harry, looking at his own bottle.
Draco ignored him, hesitating a moment before taking a sip. He swallowed, staring back at the
bottle. He let out a violent shudder.
"Nope. No. Sorry. I cannot. How on Earth do you drink this sugar-coated piss potion?!"
"Perhaps you prefer Firewhisky."
Harry turned to find Ron standing at his shoulder, smirking at Draco. Pansy placed a gin and tonic
in front of the blond and kissed him on the cheek.
"Harry, can I not trust you to water the dog properly?" she teased. "He'll go positively feral."
Draco pulled a face. "Excuse me? He waters my dog just fine, thank you."
Harry choked on his Butterbeer.
"So," said a small voice.
The group all turned to look towards Hermione, standing in front of Ron. Viktor and Pansy looked
between one another and the pair anxiously.
Ron let out a sigh. "Hermione I–"
She smiled at him before turning to Pansy. "He's a handful, but something tells me you can handle
it." Then she winked.
Pansy let out a deep sigh. "Oh, thank God." She scrambled over to Hermione's side, grabbing her
hands as the two girls started squealing.
"I thought you would hate me for sure–"
"Pans, I would never–"
"Minnie, I don't know what I've done–"
"Are you really going–"
"I've been dying to tell you–"
"I'm going to miss you–"
"Minnie, don't–"
Then both women had their arms wrapped around each other, crying.
"What the fuck is happening?" breathed Ron, scratching his head.
Draco's shoulders shook with silent laughter. "Merlin, seriously? Didn't she tell you? What am I
saying? It's Pansy. Of course, she wouldn't," Draco murmured into his glass.
Harry and Ron looked at Draco. "What didn't she tell him?" asked Harry.
"You don't know either?! Well, I'm not sure if I feel honoured or cursed."
"Out with it, Malfoy," spat Ron.
Draco glanced at the women, still swaying in each other's arms. "You know what Pansy does, don't
you? Professionally?"
"She's a photographer," said Ron.
Harry remembered the large photo in Draco's dining room. "Did she take the ones of Astoria and
Scorpius?"
Draco nodded. "Yes, she's quite talented."
Ron's brow furrowed. "I don't understand. What's that got to do with Hermione?"
"Wouldn't be the first time, would it, Weasley?" Draco set down his glass. "She's a boudoir
photographer, Ronald."
Ron blinked at him. "A what now?"
Draco rolled his eyes. "It's an opportunity for women to celebrate their bodies. Be that for
themselves or for others. Lingerie, nudity–anything of the like. Although, of course, it is not
limited to women. I myself have been on the waitlist for months…"
Harry shifted in his seat as blood rushed to his groin at the thought of Draco in a corset, hair
cascading across the cushions of a chaise longue.
"And before you open your mouth to say something idiotic, Ronald," Draco continued, "it is not
pornography."
"I wasn't going to say that!" exclaimed Ron. "Fucking, hell. Hermione gave me some of those a
few years back. Do you think—did Pansy take those?!"
"Most definitely," said Draco. "They've been thick as thieves ever since. Hermione recommends
most of her clients."
The two women were wiping tears from each other's cheeks.
"You'll visit, won't you?" asked Pansy.
"Of course, I will. I'm due for a new session," said Hermione. "How exotic it will be in the
desert…"
"I'm, uh," said Ron, ears reddening. "Need the loo."
The man stood abruptly, bolting for the bathroom. Hermione and Pansy turned to watch the man
dash across the room in bewilderment. Pansy looked at Draco questioningly, and he just shrugged
his shoulders in response.
He leaned in towards Harry. "He's off for a wank thinking about his girlfriend taking suggestive
photos of his ex, isn't he?" asked Draco in a hushed tone.
Draco's breath on Harry's neck was enough to set his skin on fire. "Most likely," said Harry, taking
a swig of Butterbeer.
"Now, who's the dog, I tell you?" Draco grumbled.
Harry snickered.
"So, Draco," said Dean. "How's that memory sketch diary going?"
Draco's cheeks flushed a pale shade of pink. "It's been…going well."
"Ahhh, so that's why you have all those drawings of me from school," teased Harry.
Draco's blush deepened as he took another drink, not looking at Harry.
Seamus frowned at his husband. "Why the hell are yours of football matches and Muggle cars
then?"
Dean smiled at him nervously. "The next will be of you, I promise!"
"Only 'cause I said something!"
"Fuck, look what you did," whispered Harry in Draco's ear.
"Excuse me? I believe it was you who mentioned my dirty laundry," he hissed back.
Harry took Draco's hand and placed it on his groin. "That's not what I'm talking about…"
Draco sucked in a breath. "I'm not sure what I did to deserve it."
"Existing," said Harry, brushing his lips against Draco's, and the blond kissed him.
Harry's fingers threaded into Draco's hair, tilting his head to deepen the kiss. Just before Harry was
swept away by lust, reality struck when Hermione released a sigh.
"I only vaguely remember how I pictured it," said Hermione. "But this is a million times better."
Pansy giggled, her arm linked with Hermione's. "Hot, right?"
The two men broke apart, glaring at the women. "What is it with you straight women and gay
romance?" asked Draco.
Pansy and Hermione grinned at each other.
"It's hot," said Hermione.
Pansy nodded. "Extremely hot. You two will have to sit for me before I leave."
"Oh, so now I'm a priority," clipped Draco, crossing his arms. "Not going to happen."
"What about us?!" asked Seamus, brow furrowed. "You never got all randy over Dean and me.
What’ve they got that we haven't got?!"
"When have you two ever kissed like that?" Hermione teased, gesturing to Harry and Draco.
Seamus schooled his face and turned to his husband. He nearly knocked over Dean's chair as he
jumped into the man's lap, kissing him hungrily. Dean's shock subsided, his arms wrapping tightly
around his husband as he slipped a hand under his jumper.
"Now that, I can't watch," said Draco, lifting his hand to block the view.
Hermione let out a sharp gasp as Viktor took her in his arms, dipping her slightly as he kissed her.
Hermione smiled against his mouth as she wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Now, what the fuck is happening?" asked Ron, looking from the clashing of bodies that was Dean
and Seamus to Viktor and Hermione.
"Love, Ronald," said Pansy, grabbing the man by his face and pulling him down for a fierce kiss.
His hands grasped her waist and he lifted her in the air. She wrapped her legs around his hips,
fingers gripping his hair as she devoured his mouth.
Harry smirked at Draco. "When in Rome?"
Draco smirked, hands sliding up Harry's thighs, eyes sparkling. "I told you. Less than an hour."
Then he leaned in to kiss Harry, passionate and suffocating. Harry didn't mind in the least.
An older man sitting at the bar gawked at the group before waving to Aberforth and pointing. "I'll
have what they're having."
-----
Wednesday, 29th July
Draco
Today 11:28 AM
Draco: Your birthday is in two days?! How dare you withhold this information!!
Draco: I had to hear it from Pansy, for Merlin's sake!
Draco: I am mortified!
Harry: Oops. Sorry. Guess I forgot to tell you.
Draco: You GUESS?!
Draco: Potter!
Draco: Yes! I've pulled out the Potter!!
Draco: How on Earth am I supposed to plan my partner's 40th Birthday Extravaganza in just 2
DAYS?!
Harry: Draco, seriously. It's fine. It's just a birthday.
Delivered
Harry's phone started to ring.
"Hi, Draco."
"Harry. You're turning 40. It is not just a birthday. Believe me."
"Then we'll make it special. Just the two of us. I don't want anything crazy."
"Fine. I'll toss out the goblin interpretive dance troupe."
"I think I'll survive," Harry chuckled.
"I swear to God, Harry. 1st of August you are a dead man! I'll have to call the reinforcements."
"Who?"
"Your goddamn ex-wife!"
BEEP
Harry blinked at his phone. Draco had hung up on him.
Draco
Harry: Hey
Harry: I love you.
Harry: I'm sorry I didn't tell you. It really did slip my mind.
Harry: These past couple of weeks have been amazing, and it's all thanks to you.
Harry: I'm so happy, Draco.
Harry: Honestly, all I want to do for my birthday is spend it with you and the kids.
Delivered
Harry's phone began to ring again.
"Fuck you, for being so bloody wonderful."
"Er…thanks?"
"Alright. Something small it is, then. I'll talk to Ginny."
"Thanks, Draco."
"Just because you're the love of my life does not mean your murder is no longer eminent."
"Wouldn't expect anything less."
BEEP
Harry froze just in front of the café. He tapped on Draco's name to redial.
"Yes, Potter. What is it?"
"You love me?"
There was silence for a few moments before Draco continued.
"I…yes. I do. Very much."
Harry's cheeks hurt from grinning so hard. "I'll see you later, then?"
"Yes, of course."
"Love you. I'll text when I'm off."
"Love you too, Harry."
BEEP
Harry pocketed his phone and looked up at the sky, and smiled.
If this was what falling felt like, he never wished to fly again.
-----
Friday, 31st July
Harry's eyes blinked open, focusing on the chirping birds near the open window. Draco was sitting
next to Harry in the bed, pencil scraping against paper on his lap desk.
"Another one for your collection? I thought you already had like five of me sleeping," Harry
grumbled as he stretched.
Draco looked up from the drawing. "Oh, um." Draco lowered his gaze back to the paper. "It's…
well. I was trying to finish before you woke up, but…"
Harry lifted himself onto his elbows. "What is it?"
"I wasn't sure what to get you for your birthday," said Draco. "It's your birthday, by the way." The
blond smiled, leaning forward to press a soft kiss to Harry's lips. "Happy birthday."
Draco handed Harry the paper, and he gasped. The piece was so meticulously drawn, it could have
been a photograph. It was Draco and Harry kissing that night at the restaurant. The night
everything fell into place. It was so raw and full of passion. Harry felt transported into the moment,
the shock and relief overwhelming him all at once when it was Draco standing in front of him.
At the bottom, written in elegant script:
When Jamie Met Lucah
"Draco."
"I—never want you to forget," said Draco softly.
Draco's gaze had fallen again, his expression sombre. Harry pushed up to sit next to the man,
raising a hand to lift Draco's chin. He kissed the blond, and Draco's arms clung to him in
desperation, as if Harry could vanish at any moment.
Harry pulled back. "I'll never forget it."
Tears welled in Draco's eyes. "Harry, this is all too good to be true. What if one day you realise you
deserve so much more than I can—"
Harry placed his hand over Draco's mouth. "Draco. I don't want to hear about what I deserve. I
want you. I love you. I've loved you for nearly twenty-five years. I want to love you for another
hundred. Longer even." He brushed Draco's hair out of his face. "Move in with me."
Draco blinked. "S-sorry?"
Harry smiled. "The House of Black should have at least one Black, don't you think? Two if you
count Scorpius. There's plenty of room for all the kids when they want to stay. Of course, it doesn't
have to be here. We can get our own place or—"
Draco threw his arms around Harry's neck, pinning him to the headboard as he kissed Harry
fiercely. Harry had to toss the drawing to the floor for fear of it getting crumpled. Draco was
straddling him, and Harry let out a groan as Draco ground his hips against him. The blond leaned
back, pulling off his shirt and tossing it aside. He ran his fingers across Harry's bare chest, and
Harry shuddered. He was already hard and aching.
Draco's bottoms vanished, his stiff cock bobbing between his legs. Harry's shorts vanished as well,
exposing Harry's thick, throbbing erection. Draco rose to his knees, straddling Harry. He took hold
of Harry's cock, placing the head at the centre of his slick hole.
"Draco, wait, let me—"

Draco cried out as he began to sink down on Harry, who released a groan as the unbearably tight
head engulfed him. Draco took hold of Harry's shoulders as he began to fuck himself on Harry's
cock.
"Fuck, Baby."
Draco kissed him, and Harry's hands clasped firmly on Draco's arse. Flushed and panting, Draco
held Harry's heady gaze as he continued to roll his hips, soft whimpers escaping him as he chewed
his lip. Harry could feel the stirring of his orgasm as he took Draco's cock in hand. The blond threw
his head back, releasing bone-rattling moans from the intensity of dual stimulation, fucking himself
on Harry's cock while he thrust into Harry's fist.
"You want to move in with Daddy? So Daddy can fuck you like this every day?"
Draco's channel clenched around Harry as he cried, "Yes! Oh, Daddy…nnnhhhnnn."
Harry brushed the hair from Draco's flushed face. "Baby, you're so perfect. Why would Daddy
want anyone else? You're so good to Daddy."
"I'll always take care of, Daddy," mewled Draco. "I…uuhhn…want to make Daddy's cock feel so
good. Make you come."
"I know, Baby," Harry grunted, his climax building. "Give everything to Daddy. I'm so close."
Draco picked up his pace as Harry's hands grasped his waist to help guide his hips up and down.
Harry let out a guttural moan as he came, his orgasm rattling through him as Draco cried out, his
climax consuming him as he came in tandem, hot streaks splattering against Harry's chest. Harry
wrapped his arms around Draco, claiming Draco's open mouth as he fully emptied inside the blond.
When they finally broke the kiss, both were panting, sweat glistening on their skin.
"Yes, Harry," breathed Draco. "A thousand times, yes."
Harry grasped a fistful of Draco's hair at the nape of his neck as they pressed their foreheads
together.
"I love you, Draco," said Harry.
"I love you, too," Draco said, combing through Harry's fringe with his fingers. "Happy birthday."
Harry smirked. "Maybe I'll turn forty again next year."
Draco laughed. "Don't get greedy. Just you wait and see what the kids put together for you."
"Yeah?" asked Harry.
"Speaking of which," said Draco, kissing Harry. "It's time to get ready."
"Alright. How much time do we have?"
Draco raised an eyebrow. "Maybe an hour. Why?"
Harry smiled mischievously, slapping Draco's arse cheek. "Get your arse in the shower, and you
may just find out…"
Draco let out a squeak as he slipped from Harry's lap, ignoring the fluid leaking from his hole as he
made a beeline for the bathroom, Harry right on his heels.
They might be fashionably late, but Harry had every intention of keeping Draco far too distracted
to notice.
-----
Draco hadn't told Harry where they were going, only to dress comfortably, so all Harry could do
was look at Draco with curiosity as he snapped his fingers, Kreacher appearing before them.
"How'd you do that?" asked Harry, blinking at the elf's abrupt appearance.
"It is as you said, darling," said Draco sweetly. "The House of Black should have a Black."
Harry gave him a knowing look. "Only as of an hour ago, Draco."
Draco smirked. "Alright, I may have had a little chat with Minerva, but I digress—facts are facts,
Harry, darling. Isn't that right, Kreacher?"
"Kreacher is blessed with such a worthy master," said the elf, bowing deeply to Draco, who shot
Harry a smug grin.
Harry scowled. "Don't make me give him a sock."
Kreacher paled, his ears drooping as he looked at Draco, wide-eyed, lip trembling.
"Look what you've gone and done," said Draco curtly. "Apologise."
"Apologise? For what?!"
Draco looked beseechingly at Harry and then to the trembling elf, rocking on his heels as he
mumbled incoherently. "The poor dear is terrified."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Er…I'm sorry, Kreacher. I promise to never try and…er…free you again,"
he grumbled with annoyance.
The elf's ears perked up again, and Kreacher smiled. "Master Harry and Master Draco," said the elf
bowing to the men before extending his hands. "If you'd be so kind."
"Thank you for your help, Kreacher," said Draco, taking an outstretched hand and gesturing for
Harry to do the same.
Harry squinted at Draco with suspicion as he clasped the small hand, and with a CRACK, they
appeared in the centre of the Hogwarts Quidditch Pitch. A large smile immediately spread across
Harry's face. It felt like he was home.
Of course, it was more than just Ginny, Sasha, and the kids. The entire Weasley family, Pansy,
Ron, Viktor, and Hermione were also there. Harry would be lying if he said he wasn't pleased to
have everyone there with him sharing the day.
Everyone had been ready and waiting, blasting glitter and confetti everywhere as fireworks burst in
the afternoon sky leaving a glowing: YEP! YOU'RE OLD! No doubt at the courtesy of none other
than George Weasley. Harry laughed as he shook the confetti from his hair, snickering at the
amount of glitter and paper clinging to Draco's long hair. Albus and Scorpius ran up to Harry and
Draco, Harry's Firebolt and Draco's Nimbus 2001 in hand.
"We already split the teams, Dad!" said Albus. "Me, James, and Mum will be Chasers for your
team. Scorpius, Uncle George, and Aunt Angie for Draco's. Uncle Ron will be your Keeper and
Viktor for Draco."
"What about the Beaters?" asked Draco. "I'm not sure I'd like to see what Pansy can do with a bat.
The boys snickered. "Lily, Hermione, and Auntie Pansy are going to be tossing Dungbombs at us,"
said Scorpius.
"How delightful," said Draco, catching Pansy's eye as she smirked at him mischievously.
"And, of course," said Albus, extending the broom, "we'll finally get to see this rivalry in action!"
Harry ruffled Albus' hair, shooting Draco a sly grin. "Hear that, Malfoy? Ready to get your arse
whipped?"
"Aren't I always, Potter?" purred Draco.
"Ick, Dad!" spat Scorpius. "TMI!"
Harry playfully whacked Draco on the arm. "Don't go traumatising our sons."
"I think I'm a bit beyond that," mumbled Albus, blushing. Then his eyes widened. "Oh! Draco, did
you ever ask Dad about the kiss?"
Scorpius' eyes brightened.
Harry looked between Albus and Draco. "What kiss?"
"You know," said Albus. "The one where Draco was drunk and jumped you. From your diary."
"I what?!" exclaimed Draco.
"My diary?" asked Harry, brow furrowed. Then his eyes widened before squinting shrewdly at his
son. "What were you doing with my diary, Al?"
Albus' gaze fell to the ground, scratching the back of his head nervously. "Er…I found it that first
night at your place. In the library."
"And you thought you'd just give it a read, then?" asked Harry harshly, a smile tugging at the
corner of his mouth.
"I didn't—"
"It's alright," said Harry, pulling Albus in for a one-arm hug. "I'm sure you got more than you
reckoned for. Hope that teaches you a lesson not to snoop through your Dad's old things."
Albus' cheeks heated, nodding furiously. "Never ever again."
Harry laughed as he gave Albus' hair another ruffle. "And to answer your question, no, he hasn't.
And unfortunately for you, now isn't the time for a stroll down memory lane. It's time for
Quidditch, yeah?" He could feel the heat of Draco's glare burning into the side of his skull.
Both boys' faces fell. "Yeah, okay," said Albus. "But you're telling us later!"
Al and Scorpius bolted over towards James and Ginny to grab their own brooms.
"Potter…" Draco's arms were crossed, his face pinched in displeasure as he glared at Harry.
Harry only smiled and kissed Draco on the cheek before mounting his Firebolt and taking to the
air. It had been years since he'd flown, but it felt like only yesterday. He felt at home on a
broomstick, but even more so with friends and family. With Draco.
"You're going down, Potter!" Draco yelled from the ground, mounting his own broom to follow
Harry.
The game was a mess. Al and Scorpius kept dropping the Quaffle. Meanwhile, dozens of
Dungbombs went flying through the air, exploding in people's faces. Many would have welcomed
a Bludger over the foul, suffocating stench.
Harry tried to concentrate on searching for the Snitch, but with Draco circling below him, it was
hard not to get distracted watching the man flying through the air with grace and ease, his hair
flowing behind him.
Then he saw it, the flash of gold, and Harry was shooting for the ground, Draco on his tail. He
could hear the kids cheering as they watched Harry and Draco dive. Draco slammed into Harry's
side, and Harry nearly fell off his broom, grabbing the handle tightly as he stretched out his arm.
When the small golden ball was safely clasped in his hands, it was too late. It had been years since
he'd flown and even longer since he'd performed the legendary Wronski Feint. Harry collided with
the ground, toppling over himself and landing on his back, the wind knocked from his lungs.
"Dad!"
Draco landed with a thud beside Harry, dropping to the ground beside him, his eyes wide with
terror and roaming Harry's body.
"Harry, are you okay?! Is anything broken? I'll get Sasha and—"
Harry lifted his hand, holding the Golden Snitch. Draco let out a sigh of relief just as Harry
wrapped his arm around Draco's middle, pulling him to Harry's chest before rolling on top of him,
ignoring the sharp pain in his chest. Draco's mouth opened in shock, and Harry kissed him,
breathless as he was. Draco relaxed against him, his fingers slipping into Harry's hair.
Harry pulled back, grinning broadly. "I've always wanted to do that."
Draco rolled his eyes. "Don't be so cliché, Harry."
"You saying you never wanted me to tackle you to the ground after a match?"
"I didn't say that," said Draco, eyes flashing. "But in my mind, it was always me doing the
tackling."
Harry snickered. "Of course."
"You okay, Harry?" said Sasha, instantly at their side with her medical bag, ever the mediwizard.
Ginny and the Harpies were lucky to have someone so vigilant.
"Yeah," he said, grunting as he rolled off of Draco. "I'll just be really sore tomorrow," he said,
winded. A bit lightheaded, Harry slowly sat up, rubbing his chest. "Or all next week."
"I'll give you some potions for the pain," said Sasha. "Just take it easy, alright? No…" she looked
down at Draco and smirked, "…overexertion for a few days."
Draco climbed to his feet, reaching out a hand to help Harry up. "You really are a disaster of a
man, aren't you?" asked Draco.
"Fellow disaster gay at your service," chuckled Harry, resting an arm across Draco's shoulder as
the blond helped him across the pitch.
"Indeed," said Draco tersely. "But you, Mr Potter, have some explaining to do."
-----
Saturday, 1st August
Harry did, in fact, have to be admitted to St Mungo's after he passed out not five strides later. He'd
broken a few ribs, one having punctured a lung. Draco was beside himself, but Harry had been
fixed up promptly after arrival. Even with such a violent tumble, Harry smiled as he recalled the
previous day. He had felt so free in the air—wind in his face, twisting and turning with Draco at
his side. James was right. He really did miss it. As for what that meant, he could think about that
later.
Harry was under strict instruction to limit his use of speech, allowing for his lung to heal fully over
the course of the day. So, instead, Draco and Harry fell into a routine all too familiar to them.
Draco
Today 2:47 PM
Harry: I have a question.
Draco: Yes, Harry?
Draco: Do you need anything? I'll come if you need me to. I can always bring my work to the
hospital and find a desk somewhere.
Harry: No, I'm fine!
Harry: What I wanted to ask is…
Harry: If I had actually told you how I felt back in school, what would you have done?
Draco: Didn't we do this already?
Draco: Fine, I'll bite.
Draco: Of course, I wouldn't have believed you.
Draco: Why?
Harry: If you had told me that you fancied me, I wouldn't have believed you either.
Harry: In fact, I didn't believe you.
Draco: Pardon?
Harry: So…about the kiss Al mentioned…
Draco: Yes??? *monocle emoji*
Harry: It took me a while, but I finally put two and two together.
Harry: It still blows my mind how many clues pointed directly at Draco Fucking Malfoy in those
Lucah texts.
Draco: Yes, yes. Your power of observation is legendary.
Draco: Get on with it, Harry.
Harry: You know that party you attended? When Astoria kissed you, and you didn't remember
what happened?
Draco: I know of what you speak…
Harry: Um, I think it was actually me you kissed. *sweat-smile emoji*
Draco: What?!
Draco: Impossible!
Draco: You couldn't have been at that party, Harry. It was Slytherin alumni only! Snakes can
smell a lion from a kilometre away!!
Harry: Actually, you'd been issued a noise violation, and the DMLE had to send someone to check
on things.
Harry: I was eager to stay busy, doing practically anything back then. So, I answered the call.
Harry: You were in the front garden pissing in a bush when I got there.
Draco: I was not!!
Draco: I WOULD NEVER!
Harry: Yeah, you were.
Harry: You were a bit of a mess, so I cleaned you up and somehow managed to get you back
inside. You sure didn't make it easy.
Harry: "That you, Potter? Call me a damsel. You're always rescuing me."
Harry: Though imagine it a bit more incoherent.
Draco: Oh, my God. Please, tell me this isn't true.
Harry: Pansy had to help me carry you up the stairs to your bedroom. You wouldn't stop messing
with my hair, giggling like a madman.
Draco: NO
Harry: She'd run off to find some sort of sobriety potion, so I got you up onto your bed.
Harry: Then you glared at me. "Potter," you'd said in that way you do.
Draco: POTTER!
Harry: Yeah, like that. *smirking emoji*
Harry: You lunged at me, grabbing my robes.
Draco: STOP THIS RIGHT NOW
Harry: and yanked me forward to kiss me.
Draco: OH MY GOD
Draco: HARRY, PLEASE BE LYING!
Harry: Of course, I was in shock.
Harry: Though it was less of a kiss…
Harry: More of a tongue lapping at the corner of my mouth
Draco: Harry, this is TOO MUCH
Draco: I'm BEGGING YOU! Cease and DESIST!!!
Harry: When you pulled back, you said…
Harry: "I'm gay. I'm so gay, Potter. Can I kiss you more? I've always wanted to kiss you."
Draco: I HAVE SIGNED MY WILL! I LEAVE NOTHING TO HARRY FUCKING POTTER!!
Draco: HE IS A LIAR AND CANNOT BE TRUSTED!
Draco: HE WILL SLANDER YOUR GOOD NAME!
Harry: *eye-roll emoji*

Harry: I swear it!
Harry: I have the memory to prove it!
Harry: Maybe you can draw it… *smirking emoji*
Draco: FUCK YOU, POTTER!!
Harry: There was a girl in the doorway I didn't recognise. Dark hair.
Harry: She saw everything…I think that might have been Astoria?
Harry: I can't know for sure. I got out of there as quick as I could.
Harry: I guess she lied about what really happened…not sure why.
Draco: You GUESS??!?!?!
Draco: This was TWENTY YEARS AGO! Why haven't you told me until NOW??
Draco: Were you EVER going to tell me?!
Harry: I didn't think it mattered in the grand scheme of things. You were pissed, Draco. I couldn't
expect to believe anything that you said that night.
Harry: Of course, I realise now it was a re-opening of a door I thought had been bolted shut for
good.
Draco: I can't believe this…I'd kissed you, and I forgot everything! All those years with hardly any
wanking material!
Draco: TAKE ME NOW CRUEL WORLD FOR ALL YOU WISH UPON MY SOUL IS
MISERY
Harry: Draco. Enough with the dramatics.
Draco: Harry. Darling.
Draco: There are never enough dramatics.
Draco: So that was it? That's what happened?
Harry: You might have tried to take my robes off…
Harry: "I'm so gay, I'm so gay, I'm so gay for you, Potter!"
Harry: Then you passed out. Got drool all over my robes. *drooling emoji*
Draco: That's it! No sex for a WEEK!

Harry: Draco, that's exactly what the Healer said.
Draco: PRECISELY!
Draco: If not for medical intervention, I would have caved immediately. I have no self-discipline
whatsoever. Now my conscience is clear and I can torture you in peace.
Harry: Bring it on. I've got 'doily' locked and loaded.
Draco: You know what? You've actually made that sexy… How is that even possible?!
Harry: Draco.
Draco: Yes, Harry?
Harry: I miss you.
Harry: You're moving in?
Draco: Yes, Harry.
Draco: I've already had all of our things sent over.
Harry: Good…
Draco: Though I require immediate renovation to the library. Where on Earth am I supposed to
store the entire Malfoy Athenaeum?
Harry: The what? *laughing emoji*
Draco: Seriously, Harry. I've circled back to my chimpanzee conjecture.
Harry: *monkey-and-banana emojis*
Harry: Whatever you want, love. It's your home too.
Draco: You really are a dear. In that case…I have a list.
Harry: I'm sure you do. *laughing emoji*
Harry: Lucky for you I'm good with my hands. *smirking emoji*
Draco: Now who's the tease…
Harry: *winking-kiss emoji*
Harry: You think I could get a Healer to bring me a television?

Draco: I'm sure something could be arranged.
Harry: For some reason, I really want to watch Frozen 2. *blonde-princess emoji*
Draco: ……
Draco: Arrangement rescinded.
Harry laughed to himself, placing his phone on the small table at his bedside. Two months ago, he
never would have guessed the direction his life would have taken. The coffee shop. Ron and
Pansy. Scorpius.
Draco…
His fear of less time with his kids post-divorce was squandered when he discovered Ginny and
Draco were not only friends but that Ginny was happy for them. They had weekly family dinners,
sometimes with the full Weasley crew. Even Narcissa Malfoy finally made her grand entrance.
Once again, Harry was pleasantly surprised. She warmed to him almost immediately. She'd 'never
seen her son so happy'. Harry had nearly cried.
When Harry reflected on his life, there were many things he could have done differently, but he
had much to be thankful for by taking the path that he did. Harry was happy. As far as what the
future would bring, he didn't dare try to guess.
He'd just leave it to fate.
End Notes
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Leave It To Fate

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Leave it to Fate

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/35072887.

"Yeah, well. I'm choosing not to now, aren't I?"

But when things go wrong, you just need to leave it to Fate.

To make POV (Point of view) shifts easier:

**reading on mobile phone or tablet recommended!

See the end of the work for more notes

Sirius. Dumbledore. Lupin. Tonks. Mad-Eye. Snape…Fred.

He let out a sigh.

Tuesday, 16th June 2020

"Ever worked in a coffee shop before?"

"Law enforcement?" the man asked.

"And your desire to work here is some sort of…?"

"Midlife crisis? Self-discovery? Mental breakdown?"

The man laughed. "No pulling punches there, I see."

Harry shrugged. "Just thought I'd try something new. Something…different."

He nodded. "I'm sure I do."

"You start on Monday."

Thursday, 18th June

"A coffee shop?"

"What are you doing, Harry?"

He shrugged, taking a bite of his sandwich. Hermione scowled.

"Yeah, well. I'm choosing not to now, aren't I?"

"And become a barista?"

Hermione glared at him, sticking out her tongue.

Harry raised an eyebrow. "Hermione…"

"Do you really want to know?"

Hermione looked out the window. "Not particularly."

Harry's eyebrows lifted. "Really? Who?"

"Huh. He's still single after all this time?"

Hermione dabbed her lips with a napkin. "Divorced. Twice."

"Tah! Well, that sounds promising, doesn't it?"

Hermione's cheeks pinked as she hissed, "Harry!"

"Yes. I do," she said. "And it is."

"Hey, we're not that old," said Harry.

"My point exactly."

"A sight to behold, I'm sure."

"Will Vikky be there?"

Hermione lifted her chin haughtily. "As a matter of fact, yes."

And perhaps one day, he'd fall.

Friday, 19th June

Hogsmeade Historic Landmark

"You too, Viktor."

"What?!" asked Neville, gaping. "No way!"

"So…what are you going to do now?" asked Dean.

The entire table went silent.

"Dresses up in my old school robes, waving a wooden spoon." Luna giggled.

Harry laughed. "Sounds like Lily."

Seamus' eyes widened. "Fuck, Harry, I—"

Hermione tapped Harry on his knee, and he smiled at her.

"What are a bunch of fossils doing out past ten?"

Harry turned at a screech of a chair on his opposite side. "Ron?"

"Ron! It's been ages!" said Seamus.

"Er…hi, Hermione," he coughed. Then his mouth fell open. "Krum?"

The man lifted his glass in greeting. "Ronald."

"Right," said Ron nervously. "That's good."

"Well, this couldn't get any more awkward," said Seamus.

"Yeah, I'm good. It's great to see you."

"I'll have plenty. I quit my job."

"You're taking the piss."

"Fucking…Harry, you having some sort of mid-life crisis?"

"That's what Hermione said."