V1

I.

RON WEASLEY

Ron Weasley looked around the great hall. Desperately trying not to look at his Mum. So many people had lost their lives. It was a sea of grief. He couldn’t believe everyone had turned up, even Percy.

Percy. One brother had returned only to loose another. George looked ruined and Ron didn’t even know what to say. He tried to focus on the good, that Harry survived, that Hermione was officially his girlfriend and they had kissed, and that his parents were still here.

Ron then spotted him, sitting alone in the corner of the room between two stretchers.

Draco Malfoy.

Ron swallowed, he hadn’t known Draco’s parents had died. His father’s hair looked burned and his skin charred. His mother had slashes through her clothes and she was covered in ash and dust.

Draco sat between them, his face drawn and tear stained. He was alone.

Ron began to walk over, he couldn’t help it. He spotted a tray of sandwiches and intercepted it. Swallowing one triangle whole, as he stood over Draco.

“Hungry?”

Draco looked up, his grey eyes mournful. The pain he was trying to hide. “I..”

“It’ll help” Ron emphasised. “Food always does.”

Draco took a sandwich and ate it gingerly. Pecking at it.

Ron frowned, but decided not to press. “I’m sorry” he said. “I can find a couple of sheets. If you’d…”

Draco sighed the half eaten sandwich between his fingers. “I just…”

“I know” Ron nodded. “My brother died..”

“At least you have spares” Draco sniffed.

Ron let out a laugh, he shouldn’t have it was so inappropriate, and yet. “Merlin Malfoy, that’s dark.”

“I just….I don’t want to leave. Because then it’ll be real. It’ll be funerals and hearings and… I don’t know what to do” Draco muttered. “I don’t know what to do next.”

Ron considered for a long moment. “I know what I want. And then maybe a nap.”

“I’m glad your sorted” Draco said through gritted teeth.

Ron bent down and squeezed Draco’s shoulder. “Let’s go down to Hogsmede, get a drink and maybe a meal. Then we can come back and see where everyone’s at?” Ron encouraged.

Draco looked at Ron, “I don’t need pity.”

“It’s not pity. I need it just much as you, the difference is I’m better at hiding it” Ron admitted.

“No you’re not” Draco said getting up. He sighed and looked at the sandwich in his hand and turned away from Ron, before turning back. “But thankyou Weasley.”

“It’s Ron. I do have a first name” Ron said rolling his eyes.

“Last name is easier, there is too many of you” Draco said dryly.

“There’s one less now” Ron said simply. Draco did a double take. “You’re not the only one who can do dark humour.” Draco nodded and smiled a little. Ron grinned, glad to see he was at least coming out of his shell. “I’d better tell Mum and Dad were we are off too.”

Draco nodded, “I’ll meet you outside” he nodded.

Ron nodded, “Won’t be long mate.” Ron steadied himself and walked over to his Mum. He hugged her tightly, “Is it okay if I walk down to Hogsmede. I’m taking Draco with me, I think he needs a friend right now.”

Mum smiled at Ron and kissed his cheek. “I agree. Poor thing, you bring home tonight. I’ll set an extra bed in your room” She smiled.

“Thanks Mum” Ron said hugging her closely.

“You’re a good boy Ron” Mum said kissing his cheek again.

Ron pulled away and gave a gentle smile to Ginny. “Be safe.”

“Will do Gin, and look after mum” Ron smiled.

He wandered out of the great hall, and slowly out to the courtyard. Hogwarts was a mess. And part of Ron wondered if would ever be the same again. It probably wouldn’t. The courtyard looked a mess, stone and rubble littered about.

Ron spotted Draco standing near a large chunk of column that had ended up acting like a makeshift wall. He was talking to someone.

“I just felt it necessary to say Sorry” Draco commented.

Ron rounded the corner and saw Draco talking to Hermione. Hermione looked confused, which was impressive. Ron could readily admit it wasn’t a look he saw often on her.

“Thankyou Draco” Hermione said curiously.

“There you are” Ron grinned. “Mione, I’m going to Hogsmede with Draco. Get a proper meal, are you going to be okay?” He asked walking over.

“That sounds great. But I don’t think I have the walk in me” Hermione admitted. Ron grinned and pressed his hand into the small of her back. “Where are we staying tonight. Because it’s a been a weird day.”

“That’s an understatement” Draco agreed.

“The burrow. If you’re okay with that?” Ron asked, his thumb rubbing against her cheek.

“I am” Hermione smiled at him.

Ron grinned and kissed her again. He slid his tongue in and let it linger, he craved the taste of her. His grin didn’t leave when he pulled away, “I love that we can do that now.”

“You love that?” Hermione said eyebrow raised.

Ron’s eyes widened, and he desperately tried to ignore the snort from Draco. “I love that I can kiss you” Ron clarified.

Hermione patted his chest, “Have fun. See you at the burrow.”

Ron grinned and stretched, “Right. Come on then Draco.” He put an arm around his shoulders. “To Hogsmede.”

“to Hogsmede” Draco said with a sigh. “Weas…Ron?”

“Yes Draco?” Ron asked his arm still around Draco’s shoulders.

“Did you feel something when Voldemort died?” Draco asked.

“What? Like emotionally?”

“Physically”

“Err…”

“Perhaps it’s been a long day, but it felt like a pulse of magic.”

“Oh. Yeah, that was weird. It’s probably nothing” Ron reflected.

“Perhaps”

“And if it’s not. It’s tomorrow’s problem” Ron reassured.

Draco nodded, and by the time they reached Hogsmede. They had forgotten about the pulse of magic, Voldemort had released on his death.

❧

“Oh Puddlemere, Oh Puddlemere! Why do you play so badly. We love your team and we love your sport. It would be a dream, and your wins have our support. So Puddlemere, So Puddlemere! Please don’t play so badly” Ron and Draco drunkenly chorused as they swayed slowly up the driveway. The shadow of the burrow loomed in the night sky.

The back door opened and the warm orange lights silhouetted the figure’s of Harry and Hermione. Draco whistled suggestively.

“Shhhh. You’ll wake them” Ron hissed loudly. “They might notice we’re drunf?”

“We’re not drunk. We’re lively” Draco declared swinging an arm out.

They both fell into a fit of laughter, as they made it up the path to the door.

“Did you wolf whistle at us?” Hermione said arms crossed.

“Yes Weasley, why did you objectify these two beautiful people!” Draco said a little too loudly.

Ron grinned swaying, “They kept buying me drinks and food. I didn’t have to pay for a thing” Ron explained. “You missed out!”

“Right, well perhaps we get you to bed” Hermione said frowning.

“You’re so damn beautiful” he murmured.

Hermione smiled at him gently, “Thankyou Ron.” She looked at Harry and nodded to Draco. Harry frowned.

“Right. Well Draco, let’s get you to bed” Harry said with a sigh.

“You know Potter. Your wearing far too many clothes” Draco commented as he practically fell onto Harry.

“Yeah well I’m cold” Harry replied simply.

“Pity. I could always be your hot water bottle.”

Harry turned and glared at Hermione. “Have fun” Hermione said innocently. She waited until Harry was out of earshot. “How much did you drink?”

“I lost count. Draco needed it, his family died…and he needed to be distracted” Ron said smiling. “He needs a friend.”

Hermione face softened and she hugged Ron gently. “You’re very sweet Ronald Weasley. Now let’s get you to bed” she said patting his chest.

Ron pulled away suddenly and stared at Hermione. “I love you Hermione Granger, but it’s way too soon for that” Ron replied slurring slightly, a dazed expression on his face.

Hermione blinked at him. “Oh. Okay. I meant going to sleep” she clarified.

Ron smiled placidly, “Good. I’m wrecked. One day I’ll wreck you too Hermione” he said patting her shoulder.

“Oh my god” Hermione blushed in surprise.

“I’m a Weasley it’s part of…” Ron kept talking but hermione’s hand was firmly clamped over his mouth. He licked it teasingly, it tasted perfect.

“You need to stop talking” Hermione reassured gently.

Ron nodded, and let Hermione lead him all the way up to the attic. He collapsed into bed, drunk and swollen with beer and food. It felt nice. “Night Mione” Ron smiled.

“Goodnight Ron” Hermione said as she left the room. Ron let his eyes close eventually he heard Harry creep in, as he climbed into the bed that had been setup beside him.

“Why do you have to make things hard Draco” Harry muttered to himself.

Ron grinned and fell asleep.

II.

DRACO MALFOY

Draco could readily admit he didn’t know what he was meant to be doing. However he was getting adept at waking up eating breakfast, and appearing like he had a purpose.

He was appreciative for the Weasley’s and their hospitality. They didn’t remotely have to offer him a room and rather delicious filling meals. But they did. The truth was Draco was greatful.

He was vividly aware as a former death eater, he would traditionally have been the last person they’d want to see. And yet. Ron had reached out and Draco felt sickened to admit it. They were becoming friends.

Ron had offered to go with him to meet the family solicitor. Draco had politely declined. It was a little office upstairs along diagon alley. The solicitor was a short fat man, who had a wet appearance. “Ah Mr Malfoy” The solicitor said with a warm greeting. Before flicking to a mournful “I’m sorry for your loss,” without missing a beat.

Draco made a mental note to find a new solicitor. “Hello. I wanted to speak to you, I believe my parents had planned out their funerals?”

“Ah yes” he wheezed lumbering over to a cabinet and removing a set of files. “Now let’s see. You’ll obviously automatically inherit the estate and Gringotts vault. Their property portfolio will continue to run via myself. But their funeral I believe your father planned it.”

Draco glanced through the papers, his parents would be buried on the estate. That wasn’t a surprise. They had chosen everything.

Except it wrongly assumed people wanted to be there. Draco had already called the prophet and put in the traditional note of his parents deaths. The Prophet had declined to publish it. Ron kindly offered to yell at them. But Draco didn’t have the energy to fight it. He just sent out a batch of owls, although in truth he suspected they would be ignored.

The morning of the funeral Draco dressed in a new suit. He arrived at the funeral home, his parents had indicated originally wanted a large venue and offered suggestions. But given Draco expected a turn out of two people. He went for the funeral home’s in-house venue. Which was a rather modest chapel with now specific religious elements, just a lot of beige.

“Do you expect many mourners?” The man from the funeral home asked gently.

“No not particularly” Draco said honestly.

The doors at the back of the chapel opened. Draco didn’t want to look back and get his hopes up. He just stared at the two coffins with complimenting flower arrangements.

“Hello Draco, I don’t think we’ve met? I’m Andromeda, your mother was my younger sister” Draco stared at the women she looked not Aunt Bellatrix. If she’d actually cared about her appearance, shaved and brushed her teeth.

“Hello” Draco said not quite sure what to say.

“I assume we probably won’t be having a funeral for my other sister. But I lost her a long time ago” Andromeda said as she sat down beside him. She rested her hand on his leg. “Probably for the best.”

“I’m sorry. My mother never mentioned you?” Draco said truthfully.

“I married a muggle born”

That explained why Draco hadn’t heard of her. “Now Harry mentioned you’ve been staying with the Weasleys.”

“Ron’s been insisting. How do you know Harry?” Draco asked.

“My late daughter whose funeral is this week. Her late husband was a friend of Harry’s father. He named Harry godfather to their son.”

“Oh” Draco murmured. Not quite sure how he was supposed to respond to that.

The door opened behind Draco, and he dared himself to look. He turned around cautiously and saw Ron, Hermione and Harry walking in.

“Hey Mate” Ron offered squeezing Draco’s shoulder.

“Hello Ron, Hermione, and Thankyou”

“Anytime” Ron said sitting in the row behind Draco.

“Thankyou for coming. You didn’t need to” Draco said to Harry.

Harry offered a courteous nod, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for your mother.”

“Still, thankyou” Draco insisted. For a second he was certain Harry blushed slightly.

Draco didn’t have the energy to read the eulogy and given the poor turnout. He allowed the funeral company to read it. He ended the funeral by playing the song they had first danced to at their wedding. He allowed himself to have a final moment.

“Goodbye Mother, Goodbye Father. I hope you get to rest now” Draco said gently. He closed his eyes and let out a long breath. Feeling the tears roll down his cheeks. He wiped them away on a handkerchief before pocketing it. Draco turned to see Harry waiting.“Potter?”

Harry stood, “Were you planning to go back to the Weasleys tonight?”

Draco felt his stomach clench tightly. “No” he said simply. He feet began to move forward. A growing sense of wrongness developing. “The manor” he practically spat out.

Harry nodded and walked over, “Do you want some company? It’ll be your first time back there?”

Draco’s heartbeat sped up, and he looked around for an escape. “I hadn’t thought about it” he admitted. He clenched his fist tightly, his nails digging into his palm.

“I can cook dinner? Harry offered.

“I’ll be okay Potter, I think I just want to spend a night alone” Draco murmured.

“I’ll come around at six” Harry replied simply.

Draco let out a long suffering sigh, “Do you not take no for an answer?” Harry just stared at him for a long silent moment. “I should have realised who I was talking to.”

“Your not allergic to anything?” Harry asked as they walked to the foyer.

“No. I don’t particularly like mushrooms. They’re just slimy” Draco shuddered.

Harry grinned, “Mushroom stew it is.”

“I’ll make sure to lock the door” Draco drawled.

“Are you doing okay?” Harry asked honestly.

“No. But I’m taking one day at a time. What about you?”

“I feel like I want to drown. So I’m focusing on everyone else. So I don’t have time to reflect.”

“Merlin, we really are hopeless” Draco said chuckling darkly.

❧

Draco allowed himself time as he arrived at the manor. It was empty and quiet. The rooms he’d spent so many days in, now sat silent. He spent about ten minutes going from room to room, making sure the gas lit lamps were all lit up. After he returned to the sitting room and sunk down in a chair beside the unlit fireplace. He closed his eyes and it wasn’t long before Draco fell asleep.

He woke up and coughed violently. The room was filled with a haze of smoke. His eyes watered blurring the flames as they engulfed parts of the room.

Draco opened his mouth but his lungs filled with smoke. He staggered forward wood crackling and the house creaking. He couldn’t even tell where the doorway was. The roof above creaked and suddenly collapsed. Draco fell backwards his head striking the edge of the fireplace.

“Draco!” Called a voice far off.

Draco just coughed and wheezed and closed his eyes.

III.

HERMIONE GRANGER

“So?” Hermione said looking around the burrow uncertainly.

“So..You’ve got your first date with Ron” Ginny said smirking. “I’m impressed you dressed up so nice.”

“Ron suggested it. And I don’t mind dressing up” Hermione clarified. She didn’t honestly, it was just a lot of work doing makeup and hair everyday. And if she drank water and used sunscreen, she could make do. “I just prefer to be homely.” She smoothed down the blue floral dress that she’d picked out.

“You could at least wear something above the knee” Ginny said honestly. “I could lend you something.”

“Ginerva Weasley, nothing you own should be above the knee” Mrs Weasley said firmly. “We’re not harlots in this household.”

Ginny rolled her eyes, making sure she wasn’t in her mother’s eyeline. “And it’s Ron.”

Hermione felt her stomach tighten, “Exactly. I want him to like me for me. Not my body” She said firmly.

“A real man will like you in spite of that. Which helps if you’re going to have children” Mrs Weasley said wryly.

“Mum. None of us are having seven children” Ginny scoffed.

“You don’t tend to get a choice darling. Unless you’re going to abstain for the next sixty years or so.”

“Wait. Don’t condoms work?” Hermione asked. It was a question she should have asked a few years ago. But it was never necessary.

“Unfortunately they aren’t quite as affective around witches. Neither is the pill, which is rather annoying. The best method is” Mrs Weasley dropped her voice low. “The pull out method.”

Hermione frowned. “The pill doesn’t work at all? Surely someone could have invented a magical version?”

“Not as yet. Most people just manage”

“Well that’s just silly” Hermione said thoroughly irritated.

“Yes. Yes it is” Mrs Weasley agreed. “But if you’ve noticed, the wizarding world doesn’t do change.”

“CAN I PLEASE COME DOWN NOW” Ron yelled from the staircase.

Ginny snorted. “Men.”

Mrs Weasley prodded Ginny’s side, “I don’t see you bringing any girls home.”

Hermione chuckled under her breath. “You can come down” she reassured.

Ron came down the stairs, he was white as sheet. “You were talking about ladies things.”

“You’ve bought me tampons” Hermione said crossing her arms.

“Yeah. But I don’t know what you do with them. I’m happier that way” Ron said nodding firmly.

Hermione sighed, Ron was dressed in a nice green shirt and black trousers and an emerald tie that was slightly too long. “You look nice” she said honestly. Because he did.

Ron grinned brightly, his face going as red as his hair. “Thanks. You look nice.”

Hermione smiled and adjusted Ron’s tie until it looked neat. “So?”

“So?” Ron blinked, looking like I’d slapped him.

“What have you got planned?” Hermione said gently.

“Oh right” Ron nodded. He pulled out a crumpled peice of parchment. “We can Floo to the Leakey Cauldron.” Hermione frowned. “Because it’s in London. And then we’ll find somewhere for dinner. And go see a show Harry helped me book tickets for” Ron added quickly.

“That sounds nice” Hermione said reassuringly.

Ron breathed a genuine sigh of relief. “I’ve never really been on a proper date before” he said honestly.

“I know” Hermione said wryly. “I shared a dorm with. Well….doesn’t matter” he said gently.

“Yeah. Shall we go?” He offered his arm.

❧

Hermione had to give Ron credit, he was trying very hard. It was sweet, although she did wish he’d actually book a restaurant. They went to three and they were all full. It was either going to be McDonald’s or a pub.

She elected to go to McDonald’s, her Dad used to take her every week as a child. Every Saturday for lunch, she had a whole collection of Happy Meal toys she’d displayed on her bookshelves at home. It had stopped when she was about eight and her mother had said “getting fat was the last thing she needed in addition to curly hair and bucked teeth.”

Hermione still missed it, it might have been the childhood nostalgia. But there really was no equivalent in the wizarding world.

“Woah. So is this a nice restaurant?” Ron said looking around.

“No” Hermione said honestly. “But it’s great. You’ll love it” she squeezed his hand and led him towards the counters. “That’s the menu” she pointed towards the backlit boards with meals that looked much nicer than they’d ever be in reality.

Ron gaped, “Woah. You can order twenty nuggets? As that’s allowed one person can do that?”

“Yes” Hermione nodded wryly. She was always charmed by Ron’s naivety toward the muggle world. It reinforced her belief that the wizarding world for all its superiority complex was charmingly backwards in some ways.

“Next” The slightly unimpressed teenager said behind the counter.

“Hi. Can I get a large Quarter Pounder Meal with Coke, one caramel sundae and one Happy meal with six nuggets” Hermione smiled. The happy meal was really only for nostalgia’s sake.

Ron stared at her like he didn’t recognise her. “Was that all for us?” He said worried.

“Just me” Hermione reassured.

Ron nodded, and his expression suggested it was taking him a couple of minutes to take it in.

“Is that all?” The girl at the register said firmly.

“Oh. Uh large Big Mac Meal, and uh oh 20 nuggets.”

“Will that also be in a meal?”

“Yes. Yes? Yes” Ron nodded.

Ron paid pulling out a handful of muggle currency, that he wasn’t quite sure how much it added up too. It wasn’t long before the two trays were handed over to them. They carried it over to a booth and sat opposite one another with their trays. They ate and it was as good as Hermione remembered. And her mother wasn’t there to criticise her.

“Urrrrrpppppp” Hermione burped, she blushed suddenly.

Ron stared at her, his eyes were wide. And there was someone in his expression. It made her blush in ways that Hermione would remember when she was alone.

“Sorry” Hermione offered.

“Don’t be. Bloody hell don’t be” Ron said firmly. “It was bloody….”

Hermione crossed her legs, suddenly feeling very flushed. She had never thought about how much having Ron want her meant. And part of her wanted to chase that feeling until she drowned in it. “We should head to the show.”

“Yeah. Definitely. But maybe in like a minute…because uhh” Ron coughed. Hermione suddenly realised what he was implying.

“How about I go to the bathroom. And then we’ll go” Hermione suggested.

“Yep. That sounds great” Ron nodded grabbing the drink cup that only had ice left in it.

❧

Hermione was let Ron lead her down toward the theatre. Her dress was now tighter over her bloated stomach. But she didn’t care, as Ron’s looked equally full.

“Mione, we need to go back there for dinner” Ron said patting his stomach with his free hand. “It was brilliant.”

Hermione smiled, “I used to go all the time when I was a kid.”

Ron grinned, “Well if we have kids we’ll definitely take them” Ron said casually.

“If?” Hermione said curiously.

“Yeah. I mean I want kids. But it’s your body. You have to do the work. I could. But it’s more complicated” Ron admitted.

“I’ll carry your children Ron” Hermione giggled. Ron had that look in his eyes again. Hermione felt herself blush. “As many as you want.”

“Merlin. It’ll still be a few years away. I mean you’ll go back and finish your final year” Ron said obviously.

“I don’t know if I want too” Hermione said honestly.

“Oh. I mean I’ll support whatever you do?”

“I haven’t really considered it. Obviously I want to find my parents and take the spell of fthem. But after I don’t know? I’ve been thinking maybe I want to settle down for a while.”

Ron swallowed and nodded, “Blimey. I’ll have to get a job. But whatever you want to do.”

“Ron your not obligated to look after me just because your my boyfriend” Hermione’s warned.

“I know. But I want to look after you” Ron said stopping and squeezing her hands. Hermione desperately tried not to swoon, instead a sort of whimper came out. Ron looked at her worried before it clicked. “I’ll protect you. And…” he let go of her hands and instead hugged her until she was pressed against you. “I’m going to give you everything you want. Always.”

And there it was. That feeling that made her shudder. The one wanting to stoke every single one of Ron’s desires.

IV.

HARRY POTTER

Harry had turned up to Malfoy Manor with a couple of bags of groceries from Tesco’s. It was already burning, the large manor had flames lapping at the windows. He could see figures out of sight.

Harry unleashed on them, it had only been a few days but Harry’s wand skills were sharp. He dragged them close. Flipping them in the air. He forced them to the ground at sped. There were protests and hexes cast in desperation. Bodies lay strewn about the gravel. Unconscious.

“Bombarda” Harry cast forcing the doors inward. A ploom of black smoke erupted out. Harry dashed forwards. “Draco!” He called out.

He heard a cough and a groan. The fire burned thick. Making it difficult to see, Harry felt his eyes water and got down low as he crawled his way toward the sound. The house was collapsing around him. Forcing Harry to climb underneath beams. And part of a wall. He found Draco lying barely breathing in a puddle of what Harry was certain was blood.

Harry dragged Draco and his whole body felt limp. He cast a hex toward a window, causing the glass to explode outward. There was a scream outside. Harry didn’t care, he dragged Draco outside onto the gravel. He saw the figure of a woman, glass embed in her.

Harry cast a patronus, watching as it dissapeared into the night air. He dragged Draco further from the house. Pressing his head to his chest and feeling the unsteady rise of Draco’s lungs. He rolled Draco onto his side, he was only semi certain that’s what he was supposed to do.

The sound of Appartition made Harry sit upright. His eyes scanning the darkness.

“Harry?” Mr Weasley’s voice carried through the darkness.

“Over here!” Harry yelled, his voice sounding hoarse.

Mr Weasley rushed over, “What happened Harry?”

“I came to cook dinner for Draco. And I found these wizards in cloaks, lighting the manor on fire. I attacked them and then went inside for Draco.”

“Harry” Mr Weasley said firmly. “You should…have” he sighed.

“Look, Draco’s bleeding and he’s not breathing properly” Harry said.

Mr Weasley nodded and summoned up a stretcher and they lifted Draco onto it. “We’ll have to take him to hospital.”

“Dad. Is there any more bodies around here?” Bill said jogging over.

“Just that one” Harry pointed at the girl he’d barely given a second glance too.

Bill walked over to the girl and carefully rolled her onto her back. She was alive but she was lacerated by the exploding window. Glass embedded in her eye and face. It took Harry a moment too long to recognise her in this state. It was Pansy Parkinson.

“She’s from your year Harry?” Bill said summoning a stretcher. “Barnaby and Charlie, are getting stretchers for the others. We think they’re all classmates of yours.”

Harry looked down at Draco. “They want revenge. For Draco turning against their side” he murmured.

“Won’t be the first. And I doubt it’ll be the last” Mr Weasley said firmly.

“Let’s get them to St Mungo’s.”

“Actually Dad, might be better to take them to Hogwarts, where they set up that temporary hospital” Bill pointed out.

“Ah good point” Mr Weasley agreed.

“Temporary Hospital?” Harry asked.

“We’ll explain on the way” Mr Weasley smiled.

❧

There was a series of tents that had been set up on the grounds of Hogwarts.

“There’s a good tent and an evil tent” Bill said wryly. “After all don’t want them claiming they aren’t getting medical tent.”

“It’s not an evil tent” Mr Weasley said frowning. “It just has more security.”

“Because they’re all death…” Bill stopped when he caught the pointed look Harry gave him. “There’s a difference between Draco and them.”

Harry sighed and looked at Draco as they stepped into the tent. It was like a series of circus tents all connected via a central hub. Nurses, healers and Medi-wizards all busying themselves.

“Can we get some help here?” Harry called out.

Madame Pomphrey appeared and looked at the unconscious Draco. “I thought you’d buried the hatchet.”

“This wasn’t me. Malfoy manor was attacked, I found Draco, he’s got a large..” Harry trailed off, as Madame Pomphrey had begun a cursory examination.

“Head wound with possible concussion and smoke inhalation” She confirmed. “This way.”

Harry followed Madame Pomphrey over to a makeshift ward. A set of bed with various witches and wizards lying in each. “Arthur could you help me get Draco onto the bed.”“Bill. I need these” Madame Pomphrey said handing him a list.

“How can I help?” Harry asked.

“Grab his legs. Now on three. One, two, three”

They lifted Draco onto the bed. Harry watched Madame Pomphrey work, as she treated Draco’s head wound. Bill returned with the supplies pushing a trolley and a machine that looked like a wooden cabinet that had a gas bottles attached.

“Thankyou Bill” She smiled. Madame Pomphrey ended up having to shave Draco’s hair back. As she had to carefully courtise the wound. Harry watched as Draco was bandaged up and rested on the pillow. Madame Pomphrey retrieved a gas mask from the cabinet which was connected by a long tube and fitted it to Draco’s head. “There we go. We’ll monitor him and make sure he’s healing.”

“Right” Harry nodded. “Can I wait with him?”

“If you like?” Madame Pomphrey nodded.

“He’s just been through a lot. I’d rather make sure he’s okay” Harry nodded.

“I’ll have someone bring you some tea.”

Harry fell asleep at some point during the night, he wasn’t sure what time it was when he woke up. The walls of the tent suggested it was at least daytime. Draco looked serene in bed, although his haircut looked rather odd. Not bad odd, just unfamiliar. Harry crossed his legs self consciously, he reached across and squeezed Draco’s hand gently.

Draco’s eyes opened he stared at Harry for a long second. He squeezed Harry’s hand back a little gently.

“You’re awake” Harry smiled.

Draco gave an unsteady nod, he spoke but just came out muffled and unintelligible.

“Don’t worry too much” Harry smiled.

Draco’s eyes narrowed.

“You’re alive. The alternative was worse” Harry said firmly.

“Ah Mr Malfoy. I see your awake” Madame Pomphrey said approaching. “Good” she took a few vitals. Before unlatching the mask and taking it off. “Now slow breaths.” Draco did as instructed, as She pressed a stethoscope to his chest. “Much improved.”

“Good. What precisely happened” Draco snapped.

“I found you unconscious and bleeding. You could have died.”

“Perhaps I wanted too” Draco replied. “I don’t have anything else.”

“Harry certainly did you a favour. You’re recovering a lot better than some of the others. Who attacked you” Madame Pomphrey pointed out.

“Who did attack me” Draco’s said attempting to get off the bed. But his legs wouldn’t budge and he felt pain shoot through him.

“I wouldn’t try to move on your own. You’re going to immobilised for a week or two. “Former classmates of yours. Most of them are recovering from Nasty hexes from Mr Potter. Miss Parkinson however is not having as pleasant time.”

“Really?” Harry said failing to sound concerned.

“A very large window exploded in her face. So while we’ve removed the glass, she’ll have a lot of scars and perhaps ironically. A glass eye.”

For a second Harry thought he caught Draco smirking. But his expression quickly became one of pity. “As long as she recovers. Now when can I be discharged.”

“Today. Far earlier than I would like, and you’re still going to be bed bound for a few weeks. But given the temporary circumstances. I need the bed. So is there anyone who can care for you until you’re on your feet.”

“No” Draco said matter of factly.

“He can stay with me” Harry offered.

“Perfect. I’ll organise the paperwork and get you some breakfast Mr Malfoy. Harry saw Draco’s Piercing stare, as he followed Madame Pompey away.

“He’ll be okay?” Harry asked.

“No doubt. Are you going to manage him?”

“It’s Draco, how much trouble can he be” Harry reassured.

V.

NEWS CLIPPINGS

MALFOY MANOR BURNS

By Atticus Hilroy

The Manor house in Wiltshire was attacked last night. A catastrophic fire set the house ablaze leaving the orphaned Draco Malfoy trapped inside.

Just after 6pm on Wednesday night. The Estate’s wards were breached by a group of assailants. Who used a variety of hexes to light the manor on fire. It’s believed they were aware of the only occupant Draco Malfoy being home.

While the fire was not put out that evening. Harry Potter fresh from his defeat of Voldemort. Arrived on scene to incapacitate the assailants before reducing Draco Malfoy from the manor.

Mr Malfoy is believed to be recuperating in the temporary Hospital setup on the grounds of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. While the assailants are being treated for their injuries before being taken into custody.

See page 3 for Ministry Statement

❧

SUPREME MUGWUMP INTERVENTION

By Bryce Silverstein

The Supreme Mugwump Achilles Georgio, arrived in Britain last night. Having travelled via Portkey from Greece. He along with a contingent of wizards from the Confederation of Wizards. Have arrived to assist in the fallout of The Dark Lords fall from grace.

Acting Minister Kingsley Shacklebolt invited the Supreme Mugwump to assist in the trial of Death Eaters in custody. Partically due to how many Death Eaters slipped through the cracks during the previous war.

In a statement Acting Minister Shacklebolt said. “We greatfully accept Mugwump Georgio’s help in assisting with the numerous trials. We want to make sure that justice is Thoroughly carried out. Especially given the numerous Death Eaters we now know escaped Justice the first time around.”

❧

‘Selected Snippet from Rita Skeeters Gossip Column’

THE GOLDEN QUARTET?

Following the Battle of Hogwarts Ron Weasley was seen drinking late into the evening with Draco Malfoy. The two were overheard talking about the recent losses of George Weasley, and Draco’s parent’s Lucius And Narcissa.

Following Harry Potter’s gallant rescue of Draco from his burning family home. As the iconic trio grown.

Following a kiss shared between Ronaldo Weasley and Hermione Ginger. It's unclear who initiated the kiss, however with those two coupled. It raises the question of who exactly is couple with Harry.

Might Draco Malfoy former enemy and Death Eater, be Harry Potter’s beau.

Join me next week for the first in a four part series. ‘The Boyfriends of Harry James Potter. Part one: Oliver Wood’

❧

TRIAL’S BEGIN TODAY

By Bryce Silverstein

The First day of Trials of the Death Eaters began today. Headed by Supreme Mugwump Achilles Georgio.

Rudolphous Lestrange was on the dock, and quickly sentenced back to Azkaban. Given his previous escape.

Numerous other supporters of Voldermort were tried and sentenced.

The first day however concluded with the trial of Draco Malfoy. It is probably the first and only trial. Where the figure on trial won’t be in attendance. However Statements provided by Professor Minerva Mcgonagall headmistress of Hogwarts and Harry Potter. Pensive Memories of Severus Snape provided by Hogwarts were also shared with select members.

Draco Malfoy was acquitted of charges, although the vote was very close, with only a slim majority.

There has been no comment from Draco Malfoy himself who due to recovering from the fire was unable to be in attendance.

VI.

RON WEASLEY

“Dad. Is it a bad thing if Hermione doesn’t want to go back to complete her schooling?” Ron asked his father as he watched potter around his workshop.

“Not at all. It’s Hermione’s choice isn’t it?” Dad said opening a series of drawers.

“I know. But she’s always been so…focused. And now I guess I’m worried”

“Your worried she’ll regret it.”

“I’ll be honest Ron, school isn’t everything. It certainly helps mind you. But you can have quite a good life without it” Dad reassured. “Ah hah. Found them. Have you thought about going back?”

Ron nodded, “Harry’s always had a career in mind. But I don’t, I don’t know what I want to do” he said shifting. “Or what I’d be good at.”

“There are lots of things you’d be good at it. But I would get a job that supports the lifestyle you want.”

Ron frowned slightly confused. “What do you mean?”

“What’s your life with Hermione going to be like in say a decade. Think about that and then find the job that fits” Arthur explained. “Why don’t you look in the classified section of the prophet. The ministry is down a lot of manpower. So imagine you’ll be able to walk right into quite a few positions.”

“Mr Weasley, Ron! Lunch” Hermione’s voice called out.

“Food. I’ve been so hungry lately” Dad admitted. “Maybe I’m getting old.”

Ron snorted, “You are old Dad.”

“Go have lunch Ronald” Dad said wryly.

Ron headed back to the house, Hermione and Fleur were in the kitchen. A small voice in his head telling him they belonged there.

Bill was watching them from the dining table.

“Bill and I want to start trying for children soon. Do you want children Hermione?” Fleur asked.

“I want lots of children. I’m an only child. So it would be nice to have a big family” Hermione agreed.

Bill gestured to an empty seat beside him, and Ron sat down. “Marry her” he whispered. Ron felt his cheeks flush.

“Oh yes. Bill is the same. He wants me pregnant non stop. It’s why I am so glad I married him, I will be looked after when I end up so very swollen.”

Hermione nodded in agreement, “Bill is very sweet like that. I hope Ron won’t mind.”

“Apparently we’re going to have big families” Bill whispered. “Now listen carefully Ron. We need to thread this needle. So we’re going to walk over there and plant an idea. I want you to tell Hermione and repeat what I tell you.”

Ron got to his feet and put his arms around Hermione. “Mhmm that smells delicious” Ron said kissing her neck gently. “You know if we have a big family. Someone’s going to have stay home with the kids.” He said with a casual shrug. “I’m happy too. But if you’re going to be on maternity leave lots.”

“I told you I don’t want to go back to school Ron” Hermione reminded him.

“I remembered” Ron agreed, not quite believing it.

“But you’re probably not fat enough to support lots of pregnancies. You need…” Ron commented,

Hermione kissed Ron firmly. Pressing him back against the counter. He cupped her backside. “Really?”

“Yeah” Ron said a little breathless. Unsure exactly what he’d agreed.

“He iz a keeper. My Bill Is the same” Fleur smiled. “We need to serve out lunch. Out of the kitchen”

Ron returned to the seat beside Bill and looked at his eldest brother confused. “I don’t understand” he whispered.

“They were talking about being mothers and staying at home. Hermione wants to let herself go. And I’ve seen the magazines you keep secretly stashed under your bed. You’ve got a girlfriend who’s going to become a big..”

“Merlin..” Ron said eyes widening. “How do you know about…”

“Because you found them in the trash right? They were mine” Bill grinned. “Don’t you think Fleur is too thin. Didn’t you notice how she ate when you stayed with me.”

Ron nodded, “She always..”

“Exactly. Why do you think I wanted her to live with Mum” Bill explained.

“Ohhh” Ron realised.

“Here we go” Hermione said placing a large plate of food infront of Ron.

“Is this for you?” Ron said curiously.

“Ron I know how much you can eat. This way you don’t have to get up for seconds” Hermione reassured.

Ron nodded and took a large forkful and ate it greedily. “Where’s Mum anyway?”

“She needed to rest” Fleur smiled. “Upset Stomach.” She placed an equally large plate infront of Bill.

Bill and Ron tucked in, equally unaware of the looks of delight as they greedily indulged themselves.

“Ah Is that lunch?” Dad smiled. “You two are marvels in the kitchen. Don’t tell Molly I said that” he whispered.

“Our lips are sealed” Fleur said reassuringly. “Molly is upstairs resting.”

Dad gave Fleur a knowing nod, “Thankyou, I’ll check up on her after lunch. Why don’t we dig in.”

“We are?” Ron said with his mouthful. “Bloody hell this is good.”

Hermione smiled at Ron as she took large heaving mouthfuls. Ron ate just as gluttonously, he was starving. And he would never say no to food. They’d all been raised that way, with six hungry siblings it was always a fight for food. It’s why he loved the feasts at Hogwarts. He could just eat and eat.

“Hermione, We should bring the rest over. Bill and Ron are very hungry” Fleur said warmly. “We cannot ave them starving.”

“You seem to underestimate the Weasley appetite” Ron grinned. “I could eat a whole horse if you let me.”

“A dragon. Although don’t tell Charlie” Bill agreed with a nod.

By the time they’d finished, Ron had decided he wasn’t going to move for a few hours. Hermione looked ready for a nap.

“Urrpp…excuse me. Splendid lunch” Mr Weasley smiled warmly.

“It was no trouble” Fleur smiled lazily. She let out a long sigh. “Do you think things will return to normal.”

“A new normal” Bill admitted. “So Hermione are you going to back to Hogwarts.”

“Hmm?” Hermione said looking tired. “Oh. I don’t know, it’s been a long year. I know I should but.”

“Whatever you want to do. I’ll support you” Ron reassured. “But will you regret it?”

Hermione hesitated, and Ron squeezed her leg. “I know. My Mum always wanted me to finish school, so I could go to university. And well since I put the spell on them. I feel freer..”

“And given your year. You could probably walk into most jobs” Bill pointed out.

“That’s the urrrppp problem” Hermione belched.

“That was impressive” Bill marvelled.

Ron grinned at her proudly. “She’s got a great…” he stopped when hermione shot him a firm blushing look.

“The point is. I’m tempted to go back. Because I want to prove I can do it. But..” she sighed. “I don’t know.”

“You have all summer” Ron reassured. “I don’t know what I want to do. Yet.”

“You’ve got time. I spent a year as a temporary Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. Before curse breaking” Bill explained.

“I think you all need a very long holiday” Mr Weasley said firmly.

“A gap year” Fleur encouraged.

Ron looked unsure, the only holiday he’d properly taken was the family trip to Egypt.

VII.

DRACO MALFOY

“This is humiliating” Draco muttered as he sat up in bed.

Harry offered a sympathetic smile as he carried the tray in, “You are meant to be on bed rest” he pointed out.

Draco scowled, he would have preferred to remain in hospital. However instead he was now being waited on the ancestral black home. Which frankly made Malfoy Manor look homely.

❧

Fleur waddled across the burrow living room. Ron couldn’t put his finger on why she looked different. Perhaps it had been a slow change, creeping overtime. Fleur bent over her dress stained against her behind. Her rear bulged in the fabric and Ron noticed her legs had more of a jiggle to them. Any maybe’s Or uncertainties of this growing change was reinforced by the very slight rip that developed on her dress.

Ron took a swig of his beer and pressed into Hermione. Until he could smell her perfume. “Do you think Fleur is getting fat?”

Hermione bulged against Ron, turning to look at Fleur. She nodded.

“Blimey, never thought that’d happen” Ron commented quietly.

Bill walked past and playfully squeezed Fleur’s ass.

“Perhaps she’s pregnant” Hermione wondered. “Extra weight is meant to help fertility”