Courting

                                        

                                              
Published: 6/20/25

"Delicious," Draco purred, taking in his last bite. Salazar, Potter was a great cook. Breakfast, or rather lunch, that morning had been an omelet, which while somewhat more technical of a dish, almost anyone could pull off. But this dinner was one of the best he had ever had, even dishes made by his parents' house elves.
"Thanks," Harry said, blushing.
"It was the best marsala I've ever had. You're an amazing chef, Harry."
Harry went redder and looked away, embarrassed by his praise. "Thanks... I like cooking... for other people."
While some part of him enjoyed Harry's shyness, he wanted Harry to be more confident. "Well... thank you for indulging me with this feast. I haven't had a dinner this wonderful in a long time."
"It was nothing," Harry murmured, thrumming his fingers on the table. 
Harry had set the table, so they were across from each other at opposite ends of the six-person table. Not too close but clearly too far for Draco to reach him easily. Draco took his own glass and got up to walk around to the seat next to Harry. He refreshed both their glasses with the exquisite wine Harry had bought for the meal. He handed Harry his glass and clinked them together.
"Happy one-day anniversary, Harry," Draco laughed.
Potter smiled and nodded. "Indeed."
"Dinner was... a great surprise."
"I do really like cooking. I can set everything up... every night... if-if you want to come over," Harry rambled. "I mean... I'd like you to come over... after work."
"You're offering to cook me dinner every day? You're certainly spoiling me," he drawled, though worried about Harry's nervousness.
"Well... if you wanted to spend time with me."
"I'd love to spend our evenings together, Harry. I don't want to take advantage of you."
"You're not! I... like being with you. I don't like living alone," Harry said, looking at his plate. 
Merlin, Harry couldn't handle eye contact for very long. Draco took the napkin and dabbed the corner of Harry's mouth where the marsala sauce had smeared. Harry looked at him, eyes wide, surprised by the gesture. 
"Of course, this means I'll have to reciprocate. Proper courting etiquette, you know? Did you have plans tomorrow morning?" Draco asked.
"N-No," Harry murmured, looking confused.
"While I can't prepare such a wonderful feast, I have done my fair share of exploring. I'd love to take you out on a date," Draco purred.
Harry trembled. "T-That sounds amazing. I mean... quidditch practice is at five."
"We can be back by then. I mean... if you Apparate us back here. Of course, there is the Knight Bus."
"Absolutely not!" Harry scoffed.
Draco laughed. "I do want to take the train there, though, okay? So, we can head out at ten?"
"Sounds good," Harry whispered. "I-umm-will you stay the night?"
Draco smiled. "If that's alright? We don't have to do anything."
Harry debated his words, thrumming his fingers on the table. "But can we... if we wanted?"
Draco laughed. "I wouldn't say no, but maybe some warming up... talking... or cuddling first? I... I want to hold you."
Harry nodded, smiling, and then Draco eyed the fireplace. It was electric. He walked over and, after a look from Harry, turned it on. Flames roared to life.