Who's your Savior?

Who's Your Savior?

ONE SHOT

Published: June 22nd, 2024

Trigger warning: date rape drug, nonconsensual sexual contact, attempted sexual assault

The party was hopping.

Someone... Dean probably... had smuggled in a muggle radio and enchanted it to run without electricity. They had even brought some base speakers to make the room impossibly loud. Harry's ears were ringing, and his head actually hurt. He wasn't feeling it, but for the truce, he was going to hold out as long as possible.

The end of the war had brought peace. They had stumbled through a painful mourning period and war trials over the summer. Reparations and prison sentences were handed down. Most of Voldemort's supporters were given life. Their children were given more leniency.

Harry eyed the Slytherins hiding in the corner, occupying a large L-shaped couch. Parkinson was making out with Daphne Greengrass while Nott and Goyle watched gleefully. Zabini was on guard watching the crowd, and Malfoy didn't show any emotion. Malfoy, as far as he knew, was forced to come not only to the party but to Hogwarts as well.

Harry had testified for Malfoy and fought against any prison time. The Wizengamot had given him probation and required him to return to Hogwarts. Kingsley had also strong-armed Harry into going back as part of the deal. Kingsley said that he really needed a year off to recover. Therapy sessions were mandatory for all students, young and old.

Malfoy's grey eyes finally turned to him as though sensing that he was watching him. Harry gave a small nod, and Malfoy returned it. Harry continued on walking through the party. The truce had been established on day 1 of being back. Harry had already sent Malfoy back his wand when he was released from prison and received a terse "Thank you" in response. But before they had entered the Great Hall for the Welcoming Feast, Malfoy had called him back to the Entrance Hall.

He had waited until they were alone before meeting his eyes. "Why?" Was all he said.

Harry couldn't really articulate why he had clamored so hard for his release. The public and Wizengamot surely didn't want to let him go, and Harry had stretched the truth and guessed Malfoy's intentions about his forced enlistment. He even called him a child soldier, similar impressment in muggle high-violence cultures.

"Did you want him to win?" he asked instead.

Malfoy grimaced and shook his head. "I still...."

"Did some fucked up shit? So did I. Did you kill anyone?"

"I hurt people."

"Again... so did I. Cruicoed and Imperioed them. We had to survive. I understand it, Malfoy."

Malfoy's eyes flashed, dangerously. "You don't understand me at all, Potter!"

Harry shrugged. "I probably don't, especially since I hauled your ass out of the flames, literally and figuratively, and it seems like you are yelling at me."

Malfoy had the decency to blush. "Thank you, oh Chosen One. Guess you're my personal savior then?"

Harry snorted and just turned to leave, done with the conversation.

"Wait... I'm sorry. Seriously, thank you for... everything."

Harry sighed. "You're welcome, Malfoy. Let's not make this any more awkward."

Malfoy scowled. "You don't want anything?"

Harry looked at him, confused. "Why would I... no, never mind. Nothing... I want nothing. I did it because it was the right thing to do. There's only one thing I want. Some peace and fucking quiet. I'm tired of fighting everyone and everything. I never wanted to come back."

Malfoy's eyes widened. "Then why did you?"

Harry grimaced and didn't tell him that part of the price of his lenient sentence was Harry coming back here. He just turned and walked to the door.

"Potter... if it's within my power... I'll make sure it's quiet for you. Call a truce."

Harry gave him a look and left him there. So started their truce. No snide remarks or arguing. No jinxes or hexes. No evil and malicious looks. From anyone, but especially Malfoy, though the eighth years shared a common room. Harry had actually been the one to stare. Malfoy was just... one of a kind. His mind was sharp, and Harry couldn't deny that he was attracted to the git, but he made no move.

But since then, peace had reigned, and it had spread to the lower classes, too. The headmistress was beyond pleased with how grown up everyone was being. She allowed a house party for seventh and eighth year students. Alcohol was allowed as long as everyone was of age. They threw it in the eighth-year common room, which had convenient access to their private dorm rooms.

Although the party wasn't quiet or peaceful, it was for the truce. Harry would be "snubbing" people if he flaked or left early. Hermione had explained it to him. She was currently snuggling with Ron in a chair by the fire, actually indulging in some firewhiskey. She had come a long way. Harry was still carrying around his first drink.

He made his rounds, talking over the speakers to show his face. He was counting down the minutes. Midnight was the longest he was going to stay. Ginny and Luna had already left, and Neville was now chatting it up with Zabini in the far corner, so that left few people Harry wanted to speak to.

He came up on Cormac talking to Smith and heard, "Malfoy's still an uptight ponce... let's loosen him up."

"Cormac, leave him alone. The Slytherins haven't done anything this year. Leave off."

"Don't tell us what to do, Potter. You're just struttin' round like you're the fucking Savior."

"That's because I am. So, shut up, Cormac, and go fuck yourself." He stormed off, irritated, and noticed Malfoy was watching him. Harry didn't acknowledge him and nearly left, but that's when Seamus decided to try to do a backflip off the table and failed. He busted his nose on the table and then threw up.

"Seamus!" Dean yelled.

Harry set his drink down and helped the idiot up.

Hermione, though tipsy, came over and healed his nose. "We're going to have to take you to the hospital wing. You could have a concussion."

Dean and Ron drunkenly heaved him up, and Hermione followed. "No, stay, Harry, we'll be alright. Enjoy the party."

Harry snorted. Hermione was asking for alone time with Ron. He watched them go and picked up his drink from the table. He swallowed the rest and sauntered through the crowd of grinding students. The uneasiness of the loud music and crowded room grew... until suddenly, it didn't matter anymore.

He felt woozy, but the music started to call to him. He swayed to the music, letting go of any reservations. Bodies gyrated around him, getting close enough to touch, and he didn't care. He met their thrusts and wasn't at all concerned when someone shoved their tongue down his throat. He responded, kissing him back while someone else pressed against his back, reaching around and grabbing his cock.

He didn't care at all. No, he loved the feeling. Pleasure exploded through him as the hand slipped under his waistband.

"Come on, Potter. Come with us up to our dorm room. We can make you feel so good. Stuff you from both ends," the voice behind him said. Was it Zach?

His blurry eyes focused on the person in front of him, Cormac, as he took his shirt off. "I think we take him right here, can't we? Let everyone see what a little slut you are. Come for me, Savior."

Harry found it hard to see or make sense of what was happening. He could feel a hand tugging his prick. His trousers were pulled down, too. He could hear people laughing and watching him as someone... Cormac? was jerking him off. He whined as he let go.

"No... you got to earn it, Savior. Come on, drop to your knees. Who wants to see the Savior suck me off?" the seventh-year yelled.

There was cheering. This is what parties were for, right? To let loose. He sank to his knees as Cormac and Smith pulled out their junk. Harry didn't see any familiar faces around him, but they all seemed to want him to do it.

Suddenly, a loud firecracker popped off right above them, and people screamed in shock and scattered. More loud firecrackers went off, and people moved away from him. But Harry couldn't figure out what was going on. Suddenly, Cormac was on the ground in front of him, holding his eye, and Smith followed, spitting out a tooth.

"Wankers. I saw you spike his drink. I thought I was just imagining what I saw. You disgust me."

"Shove off, Malfoy! You've always wanted to take the Chosen Dick down a peg," Cormac said.

"I'm not a fucking rapist. Wait till tomorrow, and you're going to pay for this one way or another."

"Ain't no one gonna believe a bloody Death Eater over us!" Smith yelled.

Malfoy suddenly kicked Smith in the balls, spelled their elbows to their knees, and Silenced them.

"Enjoy the ass-up position, dicks. Let's go, Potter," he said, lifting Harry to his feet. He spelled his trousers up and pulled one arm over his shoulder as he led him out of the party.

Harry heard the music getting dimmer as he climbed the steps. "Where'd ma shirt go?" he wondered aloud.

"Probably on the floor back there. Sorry, we needed to leave before I really broke my probation."

Harry's vision was blurry as he focused on the face next to him. "Malfoy?"

"Yep. Looks like I got to save you for once. I'd take you back to your room, but you might wander off or they might come back if someone lets them out."

"Yeh, don't wanna leave me alone?" he slurred.

Draco sighed and brought him into his room. Harry was dropped on the bed. Then Malfoy shut and locked the door. "Merlin, save me if you blame me for all this in the morning."

"I-hiccup-would never."

"You probably won't even remember anything," Malfoy muttered, leaning against the door and rubbing his face with his hands.

Harry sat up and tilted his head, admiring the view. "You're really beautiful, Malfoy."

Malfoy froze and stared at him in shock.

"Merlin, your hair is so soft and shiny."

"Oh fuck off, Potter, you're sloshed."

Harry wobbly got to his feet. "Sla-oshed doesn' mean I'm wrong," he said in a sing-song voice bordering on sultry. "Fuck, I just wanna stare at you all the time. You're the reason why I fig-gar-ed I'm... you know... gay."

Malfoy's eyebrows shot up. "You're gay? You're not just fucking with me?"

"Yep... I like wangs... and pricks... and knobs and...."

"I get the picture, thanks. I'm... also well... I only like guys."

Harry stumbled over to the door, bracing his arms on either side of Malfoy, caging him in. "I gat you now... Malfoy, and I ain't letting go."

"Potter, get off me, you drunk imbecile. You need to get back in bed and sleep it of-"

Harry leaned forward and kissed him. Malfoy was surprised and seemed to accept it, but after a second, he pushed him off.

"Potter! What the hell!"

"Shhh... come on. Let me suck you off. I'll even let you fuck me... if you want..." he offered so casually. Harry was more than just high. He had no inhibitions or filter. He pressed against him, rutting slightly for friction. He was ready to come, and Malfoy... Malfoy was everything he wanted.

Malfoy looked like he wanted to just let it happen, like he wanted to do it. "No. You are way too fucking drunk. I can't do anything to you like this."

"Bu' you want to, don't ya?" Harry laughed. "I'm right here... come on, Malfoy... you know you want to fuck the shit out of me. Come on...."

Malfoy looked torn and shook his head. "I can't do that to you. You're not... you can't give consent. It's wrong. You'd never forgive me if I did, and I would never forgive myself if I took advantage of you... even if this was the only chance I had with you."

Harry leaned in and kissed his neck roughly. "I don' care."

Malfoy groaned at the suction but still pushed him off, sending him sprawling back a few feet into his bed. "No! Stop it, Potter."

"Come on, Malfoy... fuck me...."

"That's it... I don't know if this will help or not, but..." Malfoy trailed off and then went to open his trunk. Harry tripped over nothing and fell to the floor.

"Heeeeyyyy...."

Malfoy came back over, hauled him to a sitting position and handed him a vial. "Bottom's up, Potter."

Harry laughed at his words. "Bottom's up? Ha! Sounds like fun!"

"Come on, drink it."

Harry did and giggled for a second until he grabbed his stomach. He vomited on the floor inches from Malfoy's shoes. Malfoy sighed and Vanished the mess. He then magicked him up into the bed.

"Oww... what... the...."

"Just sleep, Potter."

Harry didn't fight his heavy eyelids. He felt reason was returning to him but was drowsy at the same time. Someone pulled his glasses off and pushed his hair out of his eyes.

"Goodnight, Potter."

He mumbled back, "Goodnight, Draco."

***

Harry's head was pounding when he finally woke up. He groaned and opened his eyes. He couldn't make out anything but could tell it wasn't his room. He glanced to the side of his head and saw a table and the sheen of his glasses. He reached for them and struggled to open them to put them on.

"Fuck..." he whispered as his vision cleared. On the nightstand, he saw that there was a glass, a vial of potion and a note that read, "Headache potion".

Harry wasn't about to question his good luck and downed it. He then drank the whole glass of water for good measure. He immediately felt ten times better and finally took in his surroundings. It wasn't any of his friends' rooms. He saw green Slytherin robes in the open wardrobe.

What the heck?

He jolted when he realized that someone was sitting in the desk chair and slumped over onto the desk. The person was breathing rhythmically and was seemingly still sleeping. A Slytherin gave him their bed to sleep in.

Wait... what the hell happened last night? Everything was fuzzy. He didn't drink that much, did he? He remembered Seamus faceplanting into the table... but what happened? Did he get stunned? Merlin... this had never happened before. Was he Oblivated?

He sat up and still felt like his head was big. It wasn't a stunner... did he get a concussion or something? He sighed and looked around on the floor for his shirt. At least, his trousers were still on. He got out of bed, and his legs were weak. Damn... what happened? He walked cautiously toward the desk and spotted the white-blonde telltale hair.

"Malfoy!"

Malfoy jumped awake and nearly fell out of his chair. He got up and backed away from him with his hands up defensively.

"Malfoy, what the hell happened? Why am I in your room?" Harry growled.

"Oh fuck... you don't remember, do you?" Malfoy sighed.

"Remember what? Why am I here, Malfoy," he asked loudly, almost pulling out his wand, which was in his pocket.

But Malfoy had backed as far as he could away from him and still had his hands up. Harry wasn't sure what the hell was going on, and as of last night, their truce was still on. He had started to trust Malfoy a little over the few months they had been back. But he didn't trust anything about waking up somewhere he didn't remember going to.

"Easy, Potter... I didn't do anything to you... I promise," he said, almost fearfully.

Harry took a deep breath. Somehow, he trusted Malfoy's cautious tone and demeanor. Malfoy knew fucking with him would be bad for his probation. He took another few breaths. He realized that Malfoy was still wearing the same shirt and trousers as he had on last night. Harry was still shirtless.

"Where's my shirt?"

"Umm... in the common room."

"Why... wait, what the hell happened?"

Malfoy grimaced. "What do you remember?"

"I-I... well fuck. Ron and Hermione took Seamus to the hospital wing. Then I was about to leave. The music was so... loud... and then... I felt... happy. What the fuck? I hated it in there."

Malfoy grimaced. "So nothing after that?"

Harry tried to remember. He remembered hands on his body... his waist... maybe lower. He looked at his chest and tried to remember... but it was like there was a blank spot.

"Was I Oblivated?"

"Umm... no. Not entirely sure what it was, but it seemed to do a few things."

Harry was starting to get pissed as he was deliberately not answering him. "Malfoy, I swear to Merlin... if you tell me what the hell is going on...."

"I... don't know how to tell you it, and you would actually believe me," Malfoy whispered, his hands still up and even shaking.

Harry, despite being confused and a little off, trusted him. His fear was palpable, and Harry knew that Malfoy wouldn't hurt him. Malfoy had left out a headache potion and actually gave up his bed for him. Harry realized that Malfoy had brought him to his own room for safety. His safety.

"I'll believe you, Malfoy."

Malfoy looked at him skeptically.

"I will. I'm not stupid. You brought me here for a reason and not to hurt me. Please tell me what happened... and put your hands down. I'm not going to hex you."

Malfoy lowered his hands and looked grave. "Sit down, Potter."

Harry sat in Malfoy's desk chair. It was hard and uncomfortable. Did he really sleep in his chair all night?

Malfoy sat at the end of his bed. "I was watching Finnegan's disastrous antics and saw you come over to help."

"Yeah?"

"You remember putting your cup down?"

Harry blinked.

"And after... you picked it back up?"

"Yeah? Did I take the wrong cup?"

"No... it was yours. I-I... I didn't really... I didn't think... I wasn't sure what I saw, and I was too... scared to say anything... without proof."

"Malfoy, I said that I'd believe you."

"I meant at the party. I should have come over sooner, but you downed the cup the second you grabbed it. You remember that? So, I just watched you to see if anything happened... and you changed really quick. I knew that was the only drink you had, so when you began dancing and swaying drunkenly. I knew something was wrong."

Malfoy looked at the floor. "I was heading over when two guys started... um... dancing with you... touching you."

Harry's mouth dropped. "I-I remember... hands...."

Malfoy nodded. "One was in front of you, kissing you... and the other... just came up behind you and touched you all over... in-including your..." he trailed off and just gestured to his crotch.

Harry went red, and shame ran through him.

"Sorry... it got worse. They... kept doing it in front of the crowd. They were... cheering it on. They put you down on your knees, and well... they asked the crowd if they wanted to see you... blow them."

Malfoy was as red as he was. Harry didn't know what to say.

"I'm pretty sure that you... were going to do it. I had to stop it. I set off a few firecracker charms, and the crowd backed away. I wanted so badly to curse their pricks off... but my probation restrictions are stringent. I just socked them, might have Silenced them and left them... stuck in compromising positions. Then I brought you here."

"Fucking hell...."

"And it doesn't end there."

Harry looked at him uncertainly.

"You were... smashed and... well... horny... I think. You tried to convince me to... well... do things. I didn't accept it, to be clear, and gave you a small amount of Regurgitating Potion. I think it helped getting it out and I got you to bed."

"Holy Merlin... Malfoy... I'm sorry. Did I... what did I...?"

Malfoy pulled back the collar of his shirt to reveal a noticeable hickey. Harry looked away, embarrassed.

"Fuck... I'm sorry. I...."

"Don't... I'm fine. You didn't do anything else and weren't yourself."

"Still... but what happened? I believe you... I just don't understand," Harry explained.

"They spiked your drink with a potion or muggle drug. Something that made you drunker, compliant, and take your memory away."

Harry looked at him in horror. "They... poisoned me?"

Malfoy nodded. "I'm sorry, Harry."

Harry looked at him in shock. He called him Harry. But the reality sunk in... he had been almost... raped. Someone... well, two people wanted to do that in front of everyone. He lowered his head and tried to keep the tears out of his eyes but failed.

"Who?"

Malfoy's lip curled when he spat out, "Smith and McLaggen."

"Those fuckers... I just told them off right before... shit. They almost...."

"Yeah... again, I'm sorry I didn't get there faster... people wouldn't let me pass."

"Don't say you're sorry. You... you saved me, Malfoy," Harry said, meeting his eyes. "Thank you."

Malfoy shrugged. "Definitely a change. Usually, you're the one saving me."

Harry snorted. "Guess that makes you the Savior, then."

He laughed. "No... maybe your personal savior. I don't care about the rest of the world."

Harry rolled his eyes, but it kinda sunk in what he said. How... direct it was. Malfoy had watched him as much as he watched him.

Malfoy sighed. "Well... I might need some help. McLaggen and Smith have powerful relatives. And... you're probably the only one who would believe me."

Harry went cold. Malfoy had really taken a huge risk... a potentially costly one... to save him. Breaking his probation would mean... Azkaban.

"Fuck no. I won't let anyone...."

"To quote Smith... no one will believe a Death Eater."

Harry snarled. "I'm going to fucking hamstring them if they dare try to...."

Malfoy laughed, darkly. "Just can't handle me having one on you, huh, Potter?"

Potter looked at him, confused.

He laughed again. "Gotta take back your Savior role. Huh? Don't worry, I'm just joking, Potter."

Harry let out a breath. "Yeah... no... I owe you a lot. I don't know... how I would have survived that. I'll be lucky if it's not already in the paper."

"It probably is. I did publically defend you and carry you to my room."

Harry's eyes went wide. Someone had to have noticed. "Fucking hell."

They both jumped when an owl knocked on his window. Malfoy got up to answer it.

"Well, that didn't take long. They made a complaint. McGonagall wants to see me."

Harry got up, snatched the parchment from his hands and read it.

"Here, Potter, please read my post," he said, sarcastically, but Harry ignored him.

McGonagall only wrote that she needed to see him immediately. "Shut it... let's go see the headmistress. Don't suppose you have a non-green shirt to wear?"

"Sure... I have a few grey ones."

Harry didn't really have a choice in the matter. He took what he could. But Draco gave him a muggle black t-shirt with the words, "I'm sexy and I know it," on the front. He gave Draco a weird look but put it on. Draco just smirked.

He walked down the steps with Draco beside him, but Draco stopped halfway down. "Wait, we'll add more wood to the fire if we go down together."

"Personally, I could care less."

Draco frowned. "They'll talk."

"So? Let 'em."

Harry had no qualms about a walk of shame. Draco gave him a worried look but still followed him down the steps. The looks in the common room were more of confusion than surprise. No one said anything until Ron and Hermione came down.

"Harry! Where have you been?"

"We were worried when we came back from the hospital, and you were gone! You weren't in your room, and we couldn't find you. Where did you..." Hermione trailed off and eyed Malfoy.

Ron wasn't oblivious for once, either. "Harry... why are you with Malfoy?"

Harry swallowed hard. He didn't know where to start. Draco, however, didn't hesitate.

"Relax. I didn't steal the Savior's virtue. He just passed out, and I was gracious enough to grant him use of my floor rather than the hallway."

Hermione's eyes widened. "But Harry... you weren't drinking that much... I was watching you. What happened after we left?"

Harry answered first this time. "I don't want to talk about it. Come on, Dra-Malfoy."

He strode out the door without another word. Draco fell in pace behind him.

"You gave me your bed," he muttered, as they walked down the stairs to the headmistress's office.

"Well, I didn't think you'd want their imaginations running wild if I admitted that. I'm an asshole in everyone else's eyes."

Harry stopped. "But you're not. You saved me... and you've... I know it's you keeping the bullshit down."

Malfoy's voice was almost a whisper when he said, "It's what you wanted and, I dare say, needed. You were so... distant when we got here... like you couldn't take another blow. I'm sorry I couldn't stop... this."

Harry lowered his eyes, tears welling. "It's not your fault. You saw, and you stopped it. Thank you for... everything."

Draco just nodded.

He continued walking up to the gargoyle and muttered, "Gingerbread."

It sprang to life and opened the door. Luckily, McGonagall gave him the password at the start of the term. They walked up the steps and knocked on her office door.

"Come in, Mr. Malfoy," she said.

Harry opened the door and saw that there was also a man in Ministry robes there, as well as the headmistress. It took a second to figure it out. She had called the Ministry or they did.

"Who...?"

"He's my probation officer," Draco muttered, and he was shaking. Harry met his eyes and saw the fear in them.

Fucking hell, Draco was terrified about his probation being revoked. About going back to Azkaban.

"Mr. Potter... what are you doing here?" Professor McGonagall asked.

"I'm guessing it has to do with why you called Draco here," he said plainly.

The Ministry goon stood up. "Really? I know you were his champion at his trial, but you don't have a say here. This isn't a courtroom!"

"It's the professor's office, and I can come see her about what happened. What was reported?" Harry growled.

McGonagall pursed her lips and looked at the Ministry official disdainfully.

He puffed up. "Two students reported that the miscreant assaulted them without warning and hexed them. They have wounds and required Madam Pomfrey to remove the curses you did."

Harry blinked. Draco had only said that he Silenced them and stuck their legs together. He didn't mention curses. He looked at Draco, who was shaking more. He straightened up and looked at the headmistress, ignoring the buffoon. He believed Draco.

"That's a false report, headmistress."

"Madam Pomfrey assures me that they were cursed and were hit," she said. "The... victims reported the attack directly to the Ministry."

"You've finally shown your real colors, Death Eater."

Harry snarled, "Don't call him that!"

"I don't care what you think. It's my decision what happens here, and I am revoking his probation!"

Harry stepped forward and pulled out his wand. "He's not going anywhere until we talk about what happened! You can't just take him without hearing him out."

"You can't tell me what to do!" he screeched.

"No, but I can," McGonagall said. "And if you press this, I will gladly file a grievance for improper use of power. It's my duty to investigate and report incidents at school."

"What he did is a crime! I can revoke his probation anytime I wish!"

"Not without cause, you can't!" Harry growled.

"I have testimony from two trustworthy students that he attacked them. There were witnesses, too."

"Really? What did the witnesses say?"

"That Malfoy muggle punched them and cursed them in front of everyone!"

"And why did he do that?"

"It was unprovoked! They were dancing, and someone let off a firecracker. He just punched them while they were distracted!"

"It wasn't unprovoked. Malfoy did hit them... to save me. Those students... were...."

"Yes?" the headmistress prompted.

"I had only one drink, headmistress. One drink all night. I set it down for a second, and Draco... he saw those students put something into it. I... was drugged... potioned. I lost all control... I was out of it... and...."

He didn't know how to say it, so Draco stepped forward. "Harry finished his drink so quickly that I couldn't stop him. I watched him and saw Smith and McLaggen touch him... sexually. He put Harry on his knees, and they pulled out their cocks. They even announced that Harry was going to... blow them. I set off the firecrackers. I punched them. I didn't curse them. I only Silenced them... because they were rallying the others. I used Expoxmise to keep them there and got Potter out of there since he could barely walk."

Harry had never seen Professor McGonagall look so shocked before.

"Mr. Potter? Is that... are you okay?"

"I woke up with a splitting headache, but I was safe. He saved me."

"And you remember all this?" the man asked, knowingly.

"No... I only remember a little bit after I finished my drink. I remember dancing and someone touching me. I do remember only having that one drink."

"And how do we know that it wasn't the criminal here who dosed you?"

"I trust him. I woke up safe and sound. If it was him, he would have taken advantage of me! Besides I had just told Smith and Cormac to F off."

"There is no proof to any of this! I have two students and witnesses saying the criminal cursed them. It doesn't matter why!"

"Mr. Flatly... it does," the headmistress said. "Harry... please see Madam Pomfrey when you leave. Mr. Malfoy... I'd like to dismiss this... but your probation restrictions were rather strict."

"You hit them with the Skin-Shredding Curse and the other with the Tongue-Splitting Curse! These aren't minor hexes!"

"I didn't curse them! Check my wand!"

"You might have erased the spells somehow!"

Harry snorted. "Check theirs then."

Professor McGonagall looked at him. "Harry?"

"If Draco didn't do it... and they both said that he did... well then... one is lying. If they say that he cursed them with his own wand, when their wands cast the spells...."

Professor McGonagall smiled. "I see." She sent her cat Patronus through the wall.

Flatly knawed about it being a waste of time, but soon Cormac and Smith came to the office and retold their fabricated 온라인카지노게임. Then, when asked to see their wands, they froze and balked. The headmistress summoned them to her hand and used the spell to confirm that they had cast the spells on each other. They immediately tried to change their 온라인카지노게임.

"I'm extremely disappointed in the both of you. You could have gotten Mr. Malfoy's probation revoked. That is not a small or forgivable mistake. And what's more, you reported it to the Ministry and not to me... it's a false Auror report. I will be asking the Aurors to send this to the Wizengamot!"

"But he deserved it!"

"He's a Death Eater!"

"Quiet! Now tell me what you put into Mr. Potter's drink!"

Cormac and Smith refused to say. She called Madam Pomfrey and Professor Flitwick to search their dorm rooms, and she sent an owl to the Ministry, as Flatly just left disappointed. Draco was visibly relieved at that, whereas Smith and Cormac were still denying everything.

But when Madam Pomfrey and Professor Flitwick came in with a small bag of muggle pills, they started accusing each other. It was found in Cormac's room, but Cormac said that Zach's potion-addict cousin gave the GHB to them. When Professor McGonagall pressed about their intentions, they just said that they wanted to loosen up. It was for them.

"Yeah! Potter just took the wrong cup! We didn't mean to dose him. We didn't do anything to him. Malfoy doesn't know what he saw," Cormac growled.

"I find that hard to believe. Hand over your wands. Professor Flitwick, please escort them to their rooms and lock them in, while I wait for the Ministry's answer."

Professor Flitwick led them out, Madam Pomfrey took the bag to the hospital wing, and Professor McGonagall walked around the desk and motioned for them to sit. Harry and Draco sat in the provided chairs, and finally, the tension began to seep out.

"I'm sorry that this happened... to both of you," she said, looking at each of them.

Draco lowered his head. "Do... do think it's over with Flatly?"

"I believe he has no grounds in this situation, but that doesn't change that he's a normless braggart who is out to get you. I'll talk to Minister Kingsley about his behavior. Perhaps we can have a new officer assigned."

Draco let out a deep breath, and McGonagall handed him her tin. "Have a biscuit, Draco."

Draco hesitantly took one, and then she offered the tin to Harry.

"Thanks," he mumbled on the gingersnap.

"Draco... I will suggest that next time you bring Harry to the hospital wing and report it first. It might have been wiser, considering."

"I didn't want people to... blame me... or see Harry like that."

He gave Draco a look at how much he cared about his feelings about what happened.

"How are you doing, Harry?" she asked.

He shrugged. "Been better. I don't remember... but I still feel...."

"Violated? I'm sure. I still want you to see Madam Pomfrey. If the Ministry deems this worthy of investigation, they may question you, Mr. Malfoy and the other students there. Mr. Ma-Draco says what he saw, and that is... criminal conduct, but...."

"I'm a Death Eater."

She nodded. "Mr. Flatly will do neither of you favors in his account of the incident. But maybe others will come forward with what they saw."

Harry nodded.

"Also, I'd like to give you the opportunity to decide if you want to press this? How do you want me to deal with them?"

Harry blinked. "You mean punishment?"

"How far do you wish to press this? It won't be kept quiet, if I expel them or you press charges... it will be publicly done, especially if the Ministry decides to do it."

Harry looked at Draco, who looked at the floor. It wasn't just his name dragged through the paper. Draco's would be, too. He sighed.

"Headmistress... I don't think that they should get away with it. What would you have done if a female student was drugged up and assaulted?"

"What I have done here... and explain to that student that justice is not without a cost. She has to defend her claim and face public scrutiny of it, both in support of her claim and arguments against it. My job is to ensure you aren't... revictimized by this. Or face worse trauma. It's your choice... yours and Draco's."

Harry shook his head. "What they did... wasn't right. They targeted me because I told them off for..." he paused and looked at Draco. "They would have done to someone else... if it wasn't me. But... what do you want, Draco? Do you want this to be over?"

"I'll do whatever you want, Harry. Whatever you choose."

"I don't want to hurt you, because I want justice for something I can't remember."

"I'll be fine as long as I don't go to prison again. I can handle anything else."

Harry looked at him for a few minutes, but Draco wouldn't look at him. "I don't want them to get away with this, Professor. If they were willing to do it to me, they could do it to someone else. Someone who doesn't have a friend looking out for them."

Malfoy looked at him, surprise evident on his face. "Friend?" he whispered, shocked.

"Yeah... friend. After going back and forth saving each other... I think it becomes automatic."

Draco blushed and looked away. Harry almost thought he saw tears in his eyes.

"Very admirable... both of you... for doing this. I'm proud of you... especially you, Draco," McGonagall said, and he met her eyes. "You've had such a terrible time these last few years, but you've shown that you aren't what the mark on your arm is. You were brave enough to defend Harry when he couldn't.

"I was so glad that you were allowed to come back... to heal... to show that you aren't one of them. Albus wanted to save you... he saw that you were trapped," she said, and Draco looked away, again. "You were given an impossible choice, and you choose not to become a killer. He was right that you were worth saving."

Draco shook his head, though. Harry could see that his eyes were red. He didn't say anything, but Harry could see that he was upset.

"Very well. I'll have Mr. Smith and McLaggen pack their trunks. You shouldn't have to worry that they'll be haunting you here, Harry, nor take revenge on you, Draco."

"Thank you," Harry mumbled.

"I'm sorry I couldn't do more. But I will press the Ministry to investigate and call in other students to question. Why don't you two get some rest and calm down?"

Harry nodded as Draco wiped his eyes. They both got up and bid the headmistress farewell before heading down the stairs. Draco stopped on the stairs to get the rest of his tears gone and glamoured his red eyes away.

"Wow, that was impressive."

"I'd had enough practice," he said, sourly.

"It's okay to cry, ya know. You saw me doing it earlier today."

Draco snorted. "Sure, it is okay to do. It is not okay to appear weak. Especially with half the school ready to hex me at the first chance."

Harry grimaced. Did Draco mean....

"Come on, let's get you to Madam Pomfrey."

Harry's heart thumped happily that Draco was staying with him longer, but he said nothing. He was watching everyone they passed as though they might attack.

"Are you alright?"

"Fine, Potter. Here's the hospital wing. In you go. Good luck then."

"What aren't you going to stay?"

Malfoy gave him a look and shook his head. "I don't think that will be a good idea. You're you and I'm me. See you, Potter."

"Draco... I...."

"You'll be alright, Potter."

"I'm sorry... for... getting you into this. Nothing is ever easy when it's me."

Draco snorted. "I realized that a long time ago, Savior."

Harry grimaced. "Thanks for...."

"You've already said it. Let's just go back to the status quo."

"I didn't like the status quo. You never talk to me."

Malfoy gave him another look. "Why would you... nevermind. It's not a good idea to talk to me, Potter. You deserve some peace and quiet. You got into that mess because of me, didn't you?"

"What?"

"Smith and McLaggen? They were giving me looks before and after you talked to them. You immediately looked at me after you argued with them. I had forgotten about that until you mentioned it," he said, bitterly.

Harry's mouth popped open. Was Draco watching him the whole time? "I...."

"Yeah. I thought so. Just stay away from me or worse will happen. It's not just you with shitty fucking luck," he spat, and walked away before Harry could say anything.

Harry wondered if he should go after him, but Madam Pomfrey opened the doors and gestured him inside. He grimaced but decided to give Malfoy some space. The matron cast several spells and told him that he was alright, medically speaking.

"I tested the... pills... that they had, and I think I can counteract their effects."

Harry looked at her. "I thought you said I was fine."

"I mean the memory block. I can brew a Memory Potion."

His eyes widened. Did he want that? "Yes. I want to know what happened."

It took her about an hour to brew the potion, and he drank it. The hazy, drug-inhibited memories returned: the touching, what they said, what Harry was going to do, and then Draco came in all his glory, defending his honor. He carried him away to safety. Now, he could remember the fear and worry in Draco's words when they got to his room.

Harry was embarrassed by what he said and did, but was even more... impressed and shocked by Malfoy's words and actions. He was gay! And even seemed... interested in him. But he was so determined to stop anything from happening... for him. He thanked the matron and walked back to his dorm. He couldn't help but chew over Draco's words.

"No. You are way too fucking drunk. I can't do anything to you like this."

Harry cringed at how much he begged Malfoy to... do anything to him. Merlin, he was so desperate for it... it was embarrassing. But Malfoy, despite what Harry said, pushed him away as Harry practically assaulted him.

"I can't do that to you. You're not... you can't give consent. It's wrong. You'd never forgive me if I did, and I would never forgive myself if I took advantage of you... even if this was the only chance I had with you."

What did that mean? Did Malfoy want him? Was he attracted to him? Had he always been? Harry needed to know. He entered the common room, walking through it before Ron or Hermione could confront him, and went to Malfoy's room and knocked. No answer. He stayed there 20 minutes before he went to his room to check on the map that Malfoy wasn't somewhere else in the castle. He wasn't. He had to be in his room.

Harry frowned but decided to wait until Malfoy wanted to talk.

***

Harry never got that opportunity. Malfoy seemed skilled at avoiding him or being somewhere that Harry could talk to him. If the git went to the library, he took whatever book he needed and left. He didn't stay in the common room anymore nor visit anywhere else. Usually Zabini was with him, or Nott, and Draco's bodyguards both glared at him whenever they saw him.

Harry didn't understand why Draco was mad at him. He even wrote him a letter that he was sorry. Malfoy wrote back that it was his fault and he wasn't mad at him. He just needed space.

Harry felt obligated to grant him that. The press had a field day when Cormac McLaggen and Zacharias Smith were arrested for illegally "potioning" and sexually assaulting the Chosen One. Malfoy's name was smeared all over it and not in a good way. They made it seem like Malfoy was a part of it and not the one who stopped it. Smith and McLaggen tried to say that it was all Malfoy, but thankfully, another student came forward and said that they thought they saw Cormac put a pill in his cup.

They only got two months in Azkaban, for it all, which was better than nothing. But Draco wasn't exonerated in the press. There were still articles about investigating the claims of muggle drug use and assaulting others. Two students made false claims against him. Both were proved wrong quickly and easily and were given month-long detentions for it.

Harry never saw it, but he suspected Draco's withdrawal from public areas wasn't entirely due to him. Malfoy mentioned hexes before... now with the rumors and two students expelled... Harry had to wonder. He only had Potions with Malfoy. What happened in the other classes? He asked Hermione about it, and she gave him a look but said that he didn't talk in their classes either. At that point, Harry pulled out his map and watched Malfoy's every step as much as possible. The eighth-year tower wasn't on the map, but he wanted to make sure that Malfoy wasn't being cornered elsewhere.

What he saw made his blood boil. He didn't know what happened, but in the hallways, he kept seeing students follow or get close to Draco. But both were gone by the time he got there. He heard the other students laughing about what they had done. And Malfoy refused to answer the door to ask him what happened.

Then, one day, he checked the map as he was leaving Defense when he spotted Malfoy stopping in the middle of the hallway, surrounded by six Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws. He legged it up two flights, and Chambers, a Hufflepuff beater, had Draco pressed up against the wall, his hand on his throat. A Ravenclaw punched him while another cast a Stinging Hex.

"Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing!" Harry shouted

They dropped Draco and tried to run, but he cursed every one of them with a simple purple skin hex. That should be enough evidence. They left, yelling about getting the spell off. Draco shakily got to his feet.

"My Savior...."

"Draco, are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Potter. Just a standard Tuesday for me."

"Why haven't you reported it?"

Draco snorted. "My word against theirs, Potter. You saw how close it came to my probation being revoked. They'd just say I started it. Six against one."

"Now it's my word."

"You weren't here for the start of it. Leave off, Potter. I don't want to go through another round in the papers. How do you think my probation meetings went after the party?"

"I'm...."

"Don't say you're sorry. It's not your fault."

"It's not your fault either," Harry said quietly.

Draco glared at him. "It is, though."

"No, it isn't. You haven't done anything wrong to warrant this harassment."

"Really, Potter? Are you that naïve? I have this on my arm," he spat and pulled up his left sleeve. "I was part of the Dark Lord's inner circle."

Harry snorted. "Yeah, right. You might have that mark, but you weren't one of them."

Draco frowned, but he didn't say anything.

"I know you weren't. You weren't like them. They were killers... and they enjoyed causing pain. You didn't."

Draco looked away. "You don't know what you are talking about. I don't know where you came up with all the stuff you said at my trial but...."

"I was a Horcrux, Draco," Harry muttered, glad that he could finally tell him how he knew.

Draco looked at him, confused.

"When the Dark Lord tried to kill me... the first time... the spell rebounded and split his soul from his body. Part of it latched on me. I could see into his mind and feel his emotions. He made you torture people. He knew you didn't like it... that he repulsed you. He wanted you to fail so he could watch you squirm. He was sick in the head. And I was there at the Tower remember? I saw you lower your wand... I remember you in the loo when I nearly killed you. You needed help. You hated what you were doing."

Draco blushed and looked around for observers. He waved his wand, and wards went up. "You... it's not that simple, Potter. My family...."

"You are not your family. You didn't have a choice. People have no idea what it's like to be imprisoned and forced to serve a maniac."

Draco's eyes watered. "I hated it."

Harry nodded. "I don't know everything about you, but I'd like to. I really... I want to be your friend."

"I don't know, Potter. We had... we have so much shit between us."

"Yet you risked your freedom to save me from... that."

"I owed you," he muttered.

"You could have dropped me in my room. You could have told one of my friends. You could have hog-tied those fucks without being seen. But no... you brought me to your room to make sure no one hurt me or that I left. You didn't owe me that much consideration."

"I think I do. Enough, Potter," Draco said and turned away.

"You could have given in to my begging and taken what you wanted," Harry said, sharply.

Draco stopped in the middle of the hallway. He turned and looked at him. "How do you know...."

"Madam Pomfrey restored my memory. I remember what I said and what you said. How you were so determined not to take that choice away from me, though it seemed like... you weren't unopposed to the idea."

Draco scowled. "Is that what this is, Potter? You know I'm gay and want to experiment? Go fuck yourself." He turned away, embarrassed.

"Draco! No... it's not that! I just meant...."

"What? I'm a convenient lay? No one would believe that you would...."

"Draco, that's not what I want at all!" Harry said, angrily. "I want to be friends. I said that before I got my memories, too. I'm sorry that I brought that part up, but I didn't want to keep it from you. And... I thought... maybe that's why you're avoiding me. We don't have to be that. I just want to be friends with you... to talk about each other and understand what happened. Or if you don't want that much... just companionship. I want us to be friends... anything else is extra, okay?"

Draco shook his head. "It'll never work. I'm nothing but trouble for you. The opposite of peace and quiet. Just stay away, Potter."

Draco left after removing the Silencing wards. Harry sighed and wished that had gone better. But he turned on his heel to go see the headmistress about some purple-colored students in need of detention.

***

It was almost Christmas. He had finally told his best mates what had happened and his desire to become friends or boyfriends with Draco Malfoy. Ron was aghast but, after a few days, offered up some unhelpful tips for woeing the thorny prick. Hermione wasn't surprised at all.

So, Operation Woe Draco Malfoy had begun. Harry had started sitting closer to Draco in Potions and chatting up his friends, who were very confused by the attention. He even came to sit at the Slytherin table, chatting up Zabini, who was apparently dating Neville. This seemed to cause some gossip, but after a few weeks, no one was interested in where he sat. Draco only glanced at him, trying not to pay attention when he and Neville came over to talk. Neville appreciated the backup. But Draco wouldn't talk to him, though his friends seemed to understand that Draco was being courted.

Harry upped his game and wrote Draco letters every night... just friendly ones. Malfoy had only responded with a "Please stop, Potter". He wondered if gifts would appease Malfoy and sent out a mail order for chocolates and pastries from a French bakery. Many students spotted the large wrapped box when it arrived in the Great Hall and watched it land. Draco's mouth opened. He opened it, and some streamers came out. Draco ducked and smiled until he picked up the card.

Harry wrote in the card, "Stop being stubborn, git." In the hopes that it might break through to Draco that they could be happy... as friends or more.

Draco sighed but didn't look at him until after he opened the box. He graciously shared some treats with his friends before he gave Harry an uncertain look. Well, that was better than before.

Later that night, he found a small box with a divine eclair in it in his room with a note. "It's still a bad idea, but thank you... for the chocolates and getting the jerks to stop hurting me. You'll always be my Savior."

That sounded romantic! Harry was thrilled and started thinking up Christmas presents to send him. Maybe notebooks that they can write back and forth on? He was getting excited. Draco seemed like he might want more... but it was hard to tell. He continued to write, asking about his day or what had happened to him that day, in the hopes that the communication would start up.

Finally, Malfoy appeased him with some very short replies.

"Good, Potter."

"Horrible, Potter."

"Tell Weasley to stop staring at me."

"Potter, you're impossible."

"Seriously? It's bloody midnight, Potter. Go to bed."

"I can't believe that you are keeping this up."

"It's Saturday morning. Why are you up this bloody early? Don't you dare send me another letter before ten again!"

"My mother is fine. Stop asking me."

"Why is Granger talking to me in class? What the heck did you tell her?"

Harry laughed at that one and wrote back, sending the school owl over a few windows. "Everything. Was it supposed to be a secret?"

"Tell whoever you want, Potter, just not my friends. I don't need them to question me about it every bloody second."

Harry laughed, glad that Draco had finally started a dialogue. "They seem to know already, Draco."

"I've expressly forbidden talk on the subject, but further intrigue on it will create insubordination."

Harry chuckled and replied, "Insubordination? You expect them to do whatever you say?"

"They are my minions, Potter. You treat yours how you want."

"Whatever, Draco. I know Blaise hexed your shoelaces together yesterday, so they aren't that minionie."

Draco's fifth response of the night read, "That's not a word, Potter. My minion was punished for his insolence."

Harry laughed again and sent back, "Oh really? What'd you hit him with? The Tickling Charm?"

The owl flew back in a minute later, seemingly amused by their post. "Hardly. I'm much more insidious."

"The Tap-Dancing Charm?"

"Merlin... I'm going to bed. Talking to you is wearing me out, Potter."

"We aren't talking, Draco. Just so you know, my name is Harry."

"What are you implying, Potter? If you expect me to call you anything but Potter, you might be waiting awhile. It's bedtime. Goodnight, Chosen One."

"Goodnight, blondie."

Draco didn't respond, and Harry owled the next morning and asked, "Are you going home for break?"

Draco's reply was gloomy. "No. I'm not allowed to leave school."

Harry frowned. "I'm sorry. Could I keep you company?"

"Via annoying owl post?"

"Well, you don't answer the door."

"You don't know the secret knock to enter."

"What? I need a secret knock? What is it?"

"Knock knock knock knock. How could I explain the knock through a letter?"

"Valid point. You could just let me in."

"You may be an imposter! I can't risk that!"

Harry laughed. "I think you'd be in trouble if someone polyjuiced me. But you didn't answer my question. I can stay. I don't want you to be alone."

"Why the bloody hell do you care? That's what I don't get it."

"Because no one understands me like you do, Draco. And I think I understand you, too. Ron and Hermione sometimes don't get me. I mean, they threw that party and made me go. Your friends made you go. Were you enjoying yourself? I certainly wasn't even before I was drugged and the other stuff happened. I'm even more weary of social gatherings now."

He sent the letter, but it took nearly an hour for it to return. He anxiously opened it as Draco must have fretted over his words to take so long.

"I hated being there. I had to always watch for an attack. I was afraid that with alcohol... it would only stew people's resentment and hatred for me more, and someone would have the bright idea to stir the crowd to teach me a lesson. I watched you, because I knew you wouldn't let anyone hurt me. I was going to leave the second you did."

Harry's heart melted a little. "I will always protect you, and honestly... I think you'd always protect me."

"You have a lot of faith in me."

"You came in, fought two guys off in my honor and carried me up to your bed to protect me from harm. A bit telling, wouldn't you say?" Harry dared to write.

"Oh, piss off, Potter."

"Never. I got you a Christmas present. It's not much, but I didn't want you to be surprised."

"Bloody Gryffindor. Don't you have an army of Weasleys to bother on Christmas?"

"I'd rather bother you."

"You're stupid."

"That's it? Not up to your usual quips?"

"I have homework to do. Leave me alone, or I'll never graduate."

Harry smiled and leaned back in his chair. Operation Woe Draco Malfoy was getting closer to completion.

***

It was the last week before the holidays. To make up for the fact that nearly all students essentially missed Christmas last year due to the war, the staff and students went all out decorating. There were Christmas trees, pixie-infected wreaths and bows everywhere. Charms were put up to make students who passed a certain spot belt out Christmas carols for several minutes. Other traps made your robes become red and green striped.

Worse, there was mistletoe hidden everywhere. Some jerk decided to hex it to actually trap you there until someone kissed you for an impossibly long 3 seconds. Harry had no idea who the heck was so... sinister, but the students were going crazy with it. They moved it around, hid them with spells, and tried to float it over people's heads.

Unfortunately, Dean tried to get him in Potions, but he noticed it in time and got out of the way. In retaliation, Harry hexed him for it. Dean fell back and nearly tipped his potion over, and Slughorn gave him a detention for it.

Dean was apologetic but whispered, "Just trying to help."

Harry scowled and went to his potion. He refused to look at Draco at first, but cautiously glanced his way. Draco gave him a sorrowful look, as if he understood why public humiliation was a bit of a sore spot. He looked down, now happy that Draco had connected with him again.

Later that night, he scrapped poisoned dragon liver bits off the ceiling (thanks, third years!) until half past midnight when he could finally head to his bed. He was walking to the Grand Staircase to head up to the tower, and suddenly, he stopped in the middle of the Entrance Hallway in front of the Great Hall. He had been paying attention to the doors and overhanging shelves, but he looked up and saw that someone had Disillusioned a bloody mistletoe and put a Levitation Charm on it.

He was stuck. He couldn't move. The spell was so strong that he couldn't move his arms or legs. He was pissed that it was past curfew and only the people out were the professors, and what were the odds that they needed to go outside near midnight in winter? He was going to be there all night. Bloody hell...

He froze when he realized that he was front and center for all the students going to breakfast in the morning, and the most he could do was headbutt anyone who tried. He was shaking that, once again, someone had taken his choice by creating this trap. Worse... who would he ask? He couldn't do that to Draco... who was so nervous about public ridicule. Nor would he accept a kiss, 3 seconds or less, from his mates, publically, either.

He sighed and would probably just give the first person he saw a chance of a lifetime just to escape the trap before anyone else came. He sighed and realized he'd have to sleep standing up. His legs and arms hurt from cleaning up the mess the third years left by hand. The prankster had obviously meant this trap for the morning students and not a late-night wanderer.

"Fucking hell!" he groaned. He wondered if he yelled loud enough, Filch or his demon cat would find him. Not that it would help much.

"Potter?" a cautious voice called from the top of the stairs.

Harry looked up and saw it was Draco. "Draco!"

"I didn't get any messages, and you weren't in your room... I was worried."

Harry's heart skipped a beat. Draco had noticed that? "I-I... got caught."

"What?"

Harry sighed and looked at the floor. Although it was what he wanted... it wasn't what Draco wanted. Malfoy slowly came down the stairs, looking around suspiciously.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"I'm stuck. It's the bloody mistletoe again!"

Draco looked up and laughed. "On the run from all of England for a bloody year and got caught by a little plant?"

"It's more than the plant! They charmed it to immobilize me!" he said, indignantly.

Draco smirked. "Well... as the muggle legend goes... the only way to escape is to kiss someone."

Harry blinked. Draco was happy. Joking around even. Maybe it could happen? There weren't any witnesses to worry about. "I'm... stuck. I thought I'd be here until morning when the early risers get up."

"The horror..." Draco said, dramatically, and came closer. "I suppose I could help you get unstuck...."

Harry met his eyes. "Could you?"

Draco came even closer... inches away.

Harry nervously met his eyes. They hadn't been this close since the party.

"I could... for a price."

Harry's eyes widened as Draco came within a breath of air. He whispered, "What?"

"Just tell me..." he began, staring into his eyes. "Who's your Savior?"

Harry smiled and breathed, "You, Draco." Then he moved his head forward to close the gap. Malfoy's arms wrapped around his back, and he pulled him close and lengthened the kiss. He didn't stop at 3 seconds. The charm holding him eventually broke, and he grabbed onto Draco, determined not to let him escape so easily.

When they finally let go, breathless and shaking, Harry stared at him. Draco, who was once cocky and sure of himself... was decidedly not. He looked so vulnerable.

"Are you sure you want to do this? You know the trouble this will bring?" Draco said, not meeting his eyes.

"Who else will look out for me? I mean... you noticed I was gone and came to find me by yourself. I definitely need someone to save me... once in a while, anyway. I've always been drawn to you. Please give us a try. We'll deal with the bad things and overcome them."

"I don't want you to get hurt, Harry."

Harry's heart thumped louder at his name. "Well, you best stick close to me, cause I get into a lot of trouble. Protecting me is a full-time job, ya know."

Draco smirked. "Damn right, it is. You best stay with me then... all night long. I need to thoroughly inspect you for injuries or curses."

Harry smiled back. "Of course. With or without clothes?"

Draco took his hand, and they started walking up the steps."Without, I think, Potter."

"What happened to calling me Harry!"

"I shall only call you that when you've been a good boy," he drawled.

Amazingly, Harry shuddered at hearing those words. "Draco...."

Draco stopped. "What I think you need... is very supportive, positive reinforcement. It's my job to take care of you, after all."

"It is," Harry affirmed. "But... I still get to take care of you... right?"

Draco gave him the side eye and nodded. "I shall allow it... on occasion."

Harry smirked until Draco grabbed him by the shirt so they were face-to-face. "Draco?" he asked, worriedly.

"But Potter... you go half-cocked and do things without me knowing... and you will be punished."

Harry felt a little tingly at that, and he wasn't sure why. "What kind of punishment?"

Draco leaned in and whispered, "Your imagination will just have to go wild until you've been a bad boy."

Harry flushed as it was indeed going wild. He wondered if Draco really meant what he was thinking. He was wondering how long it would take for that to happen. He wanted it to happen at this point.

"But don't worry... after a little correcting... you'll be a good boy again by the end of it."

"Like your minions?"

"No... I will take much more care of you. Come on, Potter. Maybe you'll get to be called by your first name again tonight."

Harry took his hand. Excited... but a little scared. He had never done it before.

Draco stopped him and kissed him. "We'll take it slow. There are many ways to enjoy each other's company. We don't have to jump right into it. It's okay to be scared, and if it's too much... we can stop. I'll take care of you."

"I trust you, Draco," he said, taking the opportunity to kiss Draco again.

"Thank you for believing in me... Harry," he murmured, showing his vulnerable side again as he kissed Harry back.

"Thanks... for rescuing me, Draco. It's nice to have someone take care of me for once."

Draco laughed. "You don't think that it's the same with me? You have loyal minions."

"They're called friends, Draco!" He insisted.

"Sure, sure... you can call them whatever you want. I can't let my minions get out of hand," Draco said, smiling and looking down into his eyes.

Harry shook his head. "You're unbelievable, Draco."

"Come with me to my room."

Harry's eyes sparkled. "Okay. Why do I have a feeling that it's always going to be your room?"

They started walking, and Harry was thrilled that Draco had taken his hand.

"Less unexpected visitors."

Harry chuckled. "Herimone will track me down."

Draco sighed. "I can lock the door and Silence it."

"That would not stop her."

"You're probably right."

When they got to the common room, of course, there were still a few people up. Draco tried to pull out of his grip as he spotted Tracey Davis. Harry knew she was a bitch. He wouldn't let go.

"What the fuck? Are you a bent ponce Malfoy?"

Draco's jaw clenched. He was obviously not out, even to his years mates in Slytherin.

"Shut the hell up, Davis, before I hex you into next week."

"Excuse me?"

"You heard, bitch. We don't have time for your bigotry and outdated values. Go... enjoy your life with your husband that your parents sold you to. I hope he's faithful and not a brute."

She gasped and had no response to that. Harry figured out it hit the mark a bit too close. He snorted and dragged Draco toward the stairway to his room. Draco meekly followed and unlocked his door.

"Nice cut, Potter. Can't let anyone insult me either?"

Harry grabbed him, pinned him back up against the door, and slowly caged him like the night Draco had rescued him.

"Potter...."

"I won't let anyone hurt you. I mean... come on, who's your savior?" he quipped as he kissed him, passionately.

"You, Harry... always you."