fic/art: Words and Colours (Aeon series part 8)
Title: Words and Colours (Aeon Series part 8)
Author/Artist: fuileachd (Cugami)
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Summary: Luna gains an exclusive interview with Ron and Draco for The Quibbler.
Concrit?: Would appreciate it.
A/N: Aeon is a neverending series. Each part can stand alone but they're all in the timeline of when the first (and original) Aeon happened.
All parts archived here.
“Put it before them briefly so they will read it,
clearly so they will appreciate it,
picturesquely so they will remember it and,
above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light.”
~~ Joseph Pulitzer
Luna Lovegood now owns and runs The Quibbler. It is that very reason why The Quibbler has scored an exclusive 20-Questions-Interview with one of the most elusive and controversial couples of their generation. And it pays to be the assistant of Luna Lovegood, sometimes.
She gives you a reassuring smile, "You look spooked. Ronald is a wonderful man. There is nothing to worry about. It's Draco you have to be wary of."
She pats your hand and hands you the quill. You've work to do, after all.
“I will ask the questions but you have to listen. You’re to write the article, after all. And listen not just with your ears.”
It doesn't take long before Ronald Weasley walks in with a wide smile but stops at the threshold upon seeing you. The smile remains but his eyes harden. "Morning, Luna. Who might that be?"
"Don't be rude, Ronald. I've an assistant now." Luna smiles in greeting and stands up. She walks over and takes a large hand in her small ones. "How have you been?"
Weasley nods at you once then focuses his attention to Luna. He leans over and plants a light kiss on her forehead. "Busy as always. I've a game next week."
"And Draco?"
"Draco is right here," a voice floats from just behind Weasley.
Luna's smile brightens and releases her hold on Weasley, but not before giving him a kiss on the cheek. She does the same to Malfoy, who doesn't look at all happy about the kiss but his eyes are light and kind, contrary to his reputation.
"And we're doing fine." The three of them exchange a silent conversation through looks and smiles for a while until Luna remembers you. She introduces you by name and both men give you a long considering look. Weasley breaks the ice by taking your hand in a firm handshake and a kind smile before following Luna towards the lounge.
Malfoy, on the other hand, stays and stares for a bit longer. Eventually, he does take your hand in acceptance. There’s no smile from him but it doesn’t really matter now.
Once everyone’s seated and the drinks served, Luna starts the interview. “I hope you're both well rested. This might take a while."
Weasley leans back and tilts his head in the direction of his partner, but keeps his eyes on you and winks. "Don't worry. Draco's in a good mood."
"Don't test me so early in this interview, Weasley."
Weasley waves a hand in dismissal.
Luna clears her throat. “Let’s start.” She stares at the first card and sighs. “These are the questions taken from the letters we received. My editors chose twenty. First question… was it love at first sight?”
Weasley barks a laugh and quiets down after Draco gives him a pained look.
"Definitely not," Weasley says after he's calmed a little. His smile is infectious, however, and Luna returns that smile. "I don't think he even knew my name."
"I knew you were a Weasley," Draco finally says. "Offended at first sight, is more like it."
“He tried to befriend Harry, actually. Hard to believe." Weasley leans forward and props his elbows on his knees.
"I do still wonder why he declined. It was a perfectly good offer of friendship. You can't deny that I was polite." Malfoy raises an eyebrow and peers at Weasley.
"Only you will think of that as polite," Weasley replies with an eye roll.
As if offended, Malfoy raises his chin and looks down on Weasley. "Your presence right then had seriously sabotaged everything. Hmm, come to think, you really did till the end."
"Oh, don't tell me you have a thing for Harry that young."
"Are we going to have this conversation right here, Weasley?"
"Is that a threat, Malfoy?"
Luna stops you from going between them with a shake of her head. She points at each of her eyes with an index finger then points at the arguing couple. She grins at you first then promptly asks the next question without warning, "What did you see in each other?"
Malfoy hasn't removed his glare from Weasley but he answers, "I really don't know." He sounds bewildered and you can't help but stare.
"Me, too," Weasley concedes and holds the glare for a while. Then he blinks, lips twitching. "Ah! I still remember how happy the ferret made me feel." He fights the laughter for a while then he finally lets go, lost in the memory.
Luna laughs, too. “I remember that day.”
Malfoy breaks decorum and swats Ron's arm.
It is an inside joke that no one outside of their circle will understand. It is these moments of closeness that people are curious about. The world has become smaller the older these people got and as they age, they grow closer with fond memories to laugh about. Despite not knowing the real story, however, even strangers will find this gaiety amusing, considering the reputation of these people.
“I am serious." Weasley looks at Luna directly and grins. "The ferret incident is still one of the happiest moments of my life. Who'd have thought Malfoy could look cute?"
“Just how old are you, Weasley?" Malfoy reddens in embarrassment or anger, it’s hard to tell. "I refuse to talk about this."
“But you’ve both agreed that you will answer all questions,” Luna reminds them with a stubborn frown.
Malfoy crosses his arms and his glare intensifies.
“Fine, fine.” It is Weasley who gives. “Malfoy was this annoying little rich kid who you can’t help but notice, even if you don’t want to. He made me feel awkward in my own skin and won’t stop insulting everything about me. I often wondered if my being friends with Harry had been the reason or the animosity was bred and trained in him.” He mentions nothing about the ferret. He looks at Malfoy and gestures that it’s his turn to answer.
Malfoy smirks at Weasley before answering. “Weasley dared to snigger when I introduced myself to Potter and offered the hand of friendship. I’d thought ‘the nerve of this idiot’ and then I saw him.” He shifts in his seat so that he can face Weasley, and gives the man a once over with a cheeky grin. “Red hair, freckles, and more children than they can afford.” It sounds as if he’s quoting from before.
Weasley snorts but there is laughter in his eyes. Another inside joke, it seems.
Malfoy turns to Luna with a straight face. “Weasley was this awkward poor boy who kept getting in the way or doing something incredibly stupid. It was very frustrating to see Weasley everyday ambling about in his hand-me-downs. He’s a social stigma to the Old Purebloods and… this will take a very long time if I have to list down everything.”
“I’m sure,” Weasley drawls from his comfortable slouch.
“And he slouches. Do you see?”
Luna’s laughter rings loud and clear. They both eventually join in. It is a strange sight to see Malfoy so at ease.
“This is something everyone is curious about, including me.” Luna wiggles her eyebrows. “What got you two together?”
The two share a look. Once again, you witness a conversation being held in silence but now, Luna looks just as eager and confused as you.
Malfoy shrugs, “It’s hard to tell what exactly brought us together at the time. I’m aware that the question is supposed to bring out some sentimental memory but at the time, there were a lot of things going on and all I can remember is Weasley just happens to be there.”
Weasley nods. “I’ll have to agree. We were young and rather stupid. Little rebels in our own right.”
“I do remember the Won-won, though.” Malfoy actually laughs when Weasley winced.
“It’s easier when Draco and I met as mature adults.” Weasley cuts in without elaborating on the Won-won.
“As mature as Ron can possibly be, that is.”
“Oi.”
They are warming up to the interview, it seems. A glance at Luna confirms that she’s noticed, too.
Malfoy leans back and rests his head on the couch as he speaks, “I guess it can be narrowed down to when we came across each other at the opening night of Creevey’s gallery.”
“Hmm. We weren’t together then. Not for a long while still,” Weasley comments.
Luna nods, “And what keeps you two together?”
Weasley’s answer is immediate and without a second thought, “Each other.”
“You are such a sap. Malfoy snorts and glares at Weasley.
“But you’re not denying the answer!”
Malfoy doesn’t bother to dignify that with an answer and looks at Luna, waiting for the next question.
Luna complies with a grin, “How were you able to keep it a secret? The first time and the second time around.”
“The first time wasn’t so hard. There was real antagonism…”
“… no matter what we did when alone together,” Weasley finishes.
Malfoy only nods and continues, “It wasn’t hard to keep the relationship a secret.”
“Especially when there wasn’t one to begin with. Nothing normal, at least.” Weasley shakes his head and about to run his fingers through his hair, when Malfoy swats the hand away with a glare. They exchange a short glaring contest before Weasley breaks away to answer Luna instead, “I think the only time we actually had a decent conversation was Seventh Year.”
“And by then, there really was a lot going on.” Malfoy sighs. “We were growing up and involved in the War, for one. Figures that our first and last decent conversation was a bet.”
They both snort at the same time and then look at each other in amused surprise.
”Second time around,” Malfoy starts, “we weren't really hiding but we didn't announce it to the world, either.”
“Yeah. Pictures were taken and the tabloids ran with it. But, since we weren't saying anything, no one could affirm or deny nothing.” Weasley snickers. “Draco's idea to just let the press be. Admittedly, I panicked the first time I saw a picture of us together in the WizStyle magazine. Tabloids had always been Harry Potter's forte, yes?”
Malfoy nods in affirmation.
“True that,” Luna says with a thoughtful frown. “Did you ever regret anything? Especially during The War. You two were on different sides... well, at the beginning, anyway.”
Malfoy takes a while to answer. “A lot.” He looks at Weasley and waits.
“Nothing on the war front,” Weasley finally says. “Everyone has a story to tell about the War and nothing about War brought us together. If anything, it’s only brought us farther away from each other.”
Awkward silence reigns supreme until Weasley’s sigh breaks it. “I would have let him die, I think.”
Malfoy rests his hand on Weasley’s shoulder and tries to make light of the matter, “Knew you had it in you.”
Weasley just rolls his eyes. “Harry saved Draco. Of which, I will always be grateful for.”
Malfoy’s hand squeezes one last time and then lets go.
That seems to be the end of that. Luna says nothing and lets the silence stretch to a point of being unbearable. You glance at her for cue but she’s watching them kindly. Then a teasing smile breaks out of her face, “Were you already involved with each other in 2018? That was the first time you two were seen together outside of social functions.”
“No, not really,” Malfoy answers with a shake of his head. “We’ve gone out a couple of times since the gallery to reacquaint with each other as friends.”
“We’ve never been friends before, you see,” Weasley provides as way of explanation.
”I see,” Luna accepts the answers lightly and moves on. “We remember the first time you two posed together. Is there a story behind that? Because the rumor mill has it that Colin Creevey was specifically called in.”
“Actually, yes,” Weasley grins with a faraway look on his face. “Colin’s an old friend and his photography’s what made us acknowledge each other beyond the thorn in the past.”
Malfoy says nothing else. He does nod in agreement.
“Ronald, your divorce with Hermione was shocking news since you two looked so happy and content. Is Draco the cause of it?” Luna’s voice has gone terse at this particular question, perhaps because this has been a subject of debate in every tabloid for a long while now.
Weasley shakes his head. “No. Draco doesn’t factor in at all until a few years later from our divorce. She was successful and busy with her profession while I was still at the low end of what will be my career in Wizard Chess. Don’t get me wrong, we were happy whenever we had time together with our family. But in the end, it felt more like a cage. We are best friends, first and foremost before we’ve been husband and wife. The divorce brought us closer, believe it or not.”
Luna seems satisfied with the answer. She turns towards Malfoy and asks the same question.
“Almost the same answer, in truth. The few times I’ve seen Ron was during the War Memorials and the occasional meeting I’ve had with clients who are into chess. But beyond that, Ron’s been a part of the past I’ve wanted locked away and left behind. I had a business to run, a name to rebuild and a family that needs my attention.”
“How did your friends and family take the news when the gossip was proven true?”
“Harry was surprised and wanted to know all the embarrassing details. Actually, he even wanted to know if I fancied him at some point.” Weasley laughs at the memory then sobers up quickly. “Hermione wanted to know if I’ve cheated during our marriage.” Weasley sighs. “And the answer is still no. I did love her. I still do, as a matter of fact. She’ll always be the one woman I fought for and built a family with. I don’t think there will ever be another one like her in my life.”
“Careful, Ronald. You might make Draco jealous,” Luna jokes.
“He still gets jealous.” Weasley snorts and moves away from the slap he obviously knew coming.
Malfoy rolls his eyes. “Who wouldn’t be when he talks of her like that? And as for my friends, it was anticlimactic. What they saw was business opportunity and a way to strengthen my name and reputation into this new world.”
“And I’m still sure, you enjoy that privilege.” Weasley gives Malfoy a narrow look.
“Well, I can’t deny my involvement with you has brought more amiable business negotiations. You do me good, Weasley.” Malfoy returns the look with a sly grin.
Luna coughs. “And your children?”
“A bit trickier with the children,” Weasley admits. “The divorce was hard enough to explain. And this one with Draco is still a sour topic to my eldest son and it has nothing to do with Draco being a Malfoy.” Weasley sighs heavily and rubs the bridge of his nose. “My daughter’s welcomed Draco with the curiosity of a child meeting a new uncle and friend. The same goes with my other son.”
“As for my only son, he’s thrown a tantrum over it.” Malfoy can’t seem to help the amusement to trickle from his tone. “The thing about tantrums is that it comes like a storm but blows away and leaves a blank slate. After he’s calmed down, he hasn’t stopped asking about when the next visit is to Ron’s children. It can be lonely growing up as an only child. Knowing Ron has a small pack probably helped a lot.”
“Does publicity impact on your relationship? You're both public figures and Ronald, you're running for Grand Master status in Wizard Chess. Did this whole thing affect your chances?”
“The publicity took some getting used to,” Weasley admits. “I still wait for the day that people get tired of making a spectacle of us. As for Wizard Chess, there are no rules against how we live our personal lives. As long as I keep playing and winning my games, everything should be fine.”
Malfoy shrugs nonchalantly, “Publicity is publicity. I will be honest in saying that all these exposure has done wonders to my stocks. But I do share Ron’s sentiment on some privacy. We’ve gone public in the hopes of correcting and taming the gossips. At least now that we’re available for comment, there’d be less lies out there.”
“That’s...” Luna tilts her head and then nods, not really completing her train of thought. “It makes sense. A few more questions and we’re done. I can already tell you’re both tired.”
Weasley takes a sip from his tea and grins. “Nah, we promised so here we are.”
“Very well,” Luna grins. “Is your relationship affected by on-the-job stress? Ronald’s tourney schedules are hectic and I'm sure Draco is equally busy. How do you find time with each other?”
“It’s always something we argue about,” they both say at the same time and then they laugh.
”It's really hard to imagine the romance with such busy lives,” Luna comments.
“Do we have romance going on? And I wasn’t told?” Weasley asks Malfoy, who only frowns at him in confusion.
“What romance are you talking about?” Malfoy asks in return.
Luna rolls her eyes at this. “Seriously, now.”
“It’s true. We work. We go home. We sleep,” says Weasley.
“That’s really boring.” Luna pouts at Weasley and looks at Draco for a better answer.
“I might die of shock if Ron provides for a candle-lit romantic dinner. There’s no sweet bone in that body of his.”
“Hey now, I’ve read books on it.” Weasley is defensive, which Malfoy obviously finds funny if his grin is any indication.
“All joking aside, though,” Weasley starts again, “we’ve had twenty years of silence and separation to grow. We’re no longer the hormonal teenagers who can’t get enough of each other’s skin.”
“It’s not perfect but missing each other is part of the chase.”
“Is marriage about to factor in your future?”
Their reaction to that particular question is a moment of hilarity. They both seem horrified at the prospect of marrying each other.
“No,” they say in unison.
“Once is enough, thank you.” Malfoy pinched the bridge of his nose in a wince.
“Definitely.” Weasley sighs. “I don’t think I can go through all that again.”
Luna laughs at them. “Alright, but I want to be invited just in case. Moving on to the next question…” She grins at the card she holds and looks up, “How adventurous is sex?”
“The Quibbler editors are such perverts.” Malfoy huffs and glares at Luna.
“We’re not that young anymore. What do you think?” Weasley grins and doesn’t really answer.
“With how Ronald was at Hogwarts, I didn’t think he’d grow into a prude at his old age.” Luna laughs louder this time and it takes a long moment before she calms down. The comment is a curious thought, if anything.
“Now that everyone's watching your relationship (and probably more so than your careers), do you feel stressed or the need to make this work?”
“It’s always stressful regardless of whether someone’s watching or not,” Malfoy answers for the both of them. “You’re all voyeurs. We do the work.”
Luna hums in thought but eventually nods. “Lastly, are you happy?”
“Define happiness, Luna,” Weasley says and Malfoy looks on curiously at Luna.
It is at that particular moment that Luna’s eyes shine like a child who’s been asked if she believes in miracles. “Happiness is when all the wrong things are finally right, Ronald.”
“Then I guess I am,” Weasley’s smile is a reflection of Malfoy’s.
Luna reaches over and envelopes the men in a tight embrace. She loosens her hold only to gaze long and hard in Weasley’s eyes, “Ronald, I still see the boy you once were when I look at you -- the boy with a rare card from the chocolate frog box.”
Weasley laughs softly and his eyes slide to catch a glimpse of Malfoy next to him. He hugs Luna one last time and then pushes away.
“Thank you for the interview, both of you.” Luna straightens up and fixes her long skirt. “Go on. We don't want to take up the rest of your day off from work.”
You watch as the last of their long goodbyes are said and done. The couple leaves the suite deep in conversation or argument; it’s hard to tell after all that. You close the notebook that still sports an empty page and you only realize that now.
“They have that effect on people. You get distracted a lot.” Luna only winks at you and takes the empty notebook and quill from your hands and puts them on the table. She then hands you a single photograph. “Colin always uses a muggle camera. Isn’t it a wonder?
"Don’t you worry. You’ll remember what’s most important when you write your article.” She pats your hand and leaves you alone in the suite with the frozen photograph of Weasley and Malfoy and their memories.
Author/Artist: fuileachd (Cugami)
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Summary: Luna gains an exclusive interview with Ron and Draco for The Quibbler.
Concrit?: Would appreciate it.
A/N: Aeon is a neverending series. Each part can stand alone but they're all in the timeline of when the first (and original) Aeon happened.
All parts archived here.
“Put it before them briefly so they will read it,
clearly so they will appreciate it,
picturesquely so they will remember it and,
above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light.”
~~ Joseph Pulitzer
Luna Lovegood now owns and runs The Quibbler. It is that very reason why The Quibbler has scored an exclusive 20-Questions-Interview with one of the most elusive and controversial couples of their generation. And it pays to be the assistant of Luna Lovegood, sometimes.
She gives you a reassuring smile, "You look spooked. Ronald is a wonderful man. There is nothing to worry about. It's Draco you have to be wary of."
She pats your hand and hands you the quill. You've work to do, after all.
“I will ask the questions but you have to listen. You’re to write the article, after all. And listen not just with your ears.”
It doesn't take long before Ronald Weasley walks in with a wide smile but stops at the threshold upon seeing you. The smile remains but his eyes harden. "Morning, Luna. Who might that be?"
"Don't be rude, Ronald. I've an assistant now." Luna smiles in greeting and stands up. She walks over and takes a large hand in her small ones. "How have you been?"
Weasley nods at you once then focuses his attention to Luna. He leans over and plants a light kiss on her forehead. "Busy as always. I've a game next week."
"And Draco?"
"Draco is right here," a voice floats from just behind Weasley.
Luna's smile brightens and releases her hold on Weasley, but not before giving him a kiss on the cheek. She does the same to Malfoy, who doesn't look at all happy about the kiss but his eyes are light and kind, contrary to his reputation.
"And we're doing fine." The three of them exchange a silent conversation through looks and smiles for a while until Luna remembers you. She introduces you by name and both men give you a long considering look. Weasley breaks the ice by taking your hand in a firm handshake and a kind smile before following Luna towards the lounge.
Malfoy, on the other hand, stays and stares for a bit longer. Eventually, he does take your hand in acceptance. There’s no smile from him but it doesn’t really matter now.
Once everyone’s seated and the drinks served, Luna starts the interview. “I hope you're both well rested. This might take a while."
Weasley leans back and tilts his head in the direction of his partner, but keeps his eyes on you and winks. "Don't worry. Draco's in a good mood."
"Don't test me so early in this interview, Weasley."
Weasley waves a hand in dismissal.
Luna clears her throat. “Let’s start.” She stares at the first card and sighs. “These are the questions taken from the letters we received. My editors chose twenty. First question… was it love at first sight?”
Weasley barks a laugh and quiets down after Draco gives him a pained look.
"Definitely not," Weasley says after he's calmed a little. His smile is infectious, however, and Luna returns that smile. "I don't think he even knew my name."
"I knew you were a Weasley," Draco finally says. "Offended at first sight, is more like it."
“He tried to befriend Harry, actually. Hard to believe." Weasley leans forward and props his elbows on his knees.
"I do still wonder why he declined. It was a perfectly good offer of friendship. You can't deny that I was polite." Malfoy raises an eyebrow and peers at Weasley.
"Only you will think of that as polite," Weasley replies with an eye roll.
As if offended, Malfoy raises his chin and looks down on Weasley. "Your presence right then had seriously sabotaged everything. Hmm, come to think, you really did till the end."
"Oh, don't tell me you have a thing for Harry that young."
"Are we going to have this conversation right here, Weasley?"
"Is that a threat, Malfoy?"
Luna stops you from going between them with a shake of her head. She points at each of her eyes with an index finger then points at the arguing couple. She grins at you first then promptly asks the next question without warning, "What did you see in each other?"
Malfoy hasn't removed his glare from Weasley but he answers, "I really don't know." He sounds bewildered and you can't help but stare.
"Me, too," Weasley concedes and holds the glare for a while. Then he blinks, lips twitching. "Ah! I still remember how happy the ferret made me feel." He fights the laughter for a while then he finally lets go, lost in the memory.
Luna laughs, too. “I remember that day.”
Malfoy breaks decorum and swats Ron's arm.
It is an inside joke that no one outside of their circle will understand. It is these moments of closeness that people are curious about. The world has become smaller the older these people got and as they age, they grow closer with fond memories to laugh about. Despite not knowing the real story, however, even strangers will find this gaiety amusing, considering the reputation of these people.
“I am serious." Weasley looks at Luna directly and grins. "The ferret incident is still one of the happiest moments of my life. Who'd have thought Malfoy could look cute?"
“Just how old are you, Weasley?" Malfoy reddens in embarrassment or anger, it’s hard to tell. "I refuse to talk about this."
“But you’ve both agreed that you will answer all questions,” Luna reminds them with a stubborn frown.
Malfoy crosses his arms and his glare intensifies.
“Fine, fine.” It is Weasley who gives. “Malfoy was this annoying little rich kid who you can’t help but notice, even if you don’t want to. He made me feel awkward in my own skin and won’t stop insulting everything about me. I often wondered if my being friends with Harry had been the reason or the animosity was bred and trained in him.” He mentions nothing about the ferret. He looks at Malfoy and gestures that it’s his turn to answer.
Malfoy smirks at Weasley before answering. “Weasley dared to snigger when I introduced myself to Potter and offered the hand of friendship. I’d thought ‘the nerve of this idiot’ and then I saw him.” He shifts in his seat so that he can face Weasley, and gives the man a once over with a cheeky grin. “Red hair, freckles, and more children than they can afford.” It sounds as if he’s quoting from before.
Weasley snorts but there is laughter in his eyes. Another inside joke, it seems.
Malfoy turns to Luna with a straight face. “Weasley was this awkward poor boy who kept getting in the way or doing something incredibly stupid. It was very frustrating to see Weasley everyday ambling about in his hand-me-downs. He’s a social stigma to the Old Purebloods and… this will take a very long time if I have to list down everything.”
“I’m sure,” Weasley drawls from his comfortable slouch.
“And he slouches. Do you see?”
Luna’s laughter rings loud and clear. They both eventually join in. It is a strange sight to see Malfoy so at ease.
“This is something everyone is curious about, including me.” Luna wiggles her eyebrows. “What got you two together?”
The two share a look. Once again, you witness a conversation being held in silence but now, Luna looks just as eager and confused as you.
Malfoy shrugs, “It’s hard to tell what exactly brought us together at the time. I’m aware that the question is supposed to bring out some sentimental memory but at the time, there were a lot of things going on and all I can remember is Weasley just happens to be there.”
Weasley nods. “I’ll have to agree. We were young and rather stupid. Little rebels in our own right.”
“I do remember the Won-won, though.” Malfoy actually laughs when Weasley winced.
“It’s easier when Draco and I met as mature adults.” Weasley cuts in without elaborating on the Won-won.
“As mature as Ron can possibly be, that is.”
“Oi.”
They are warming up to the interview, it seems. A glance at Luna confirms that she’s noticed, too.
Malfoy leans back and rests his head on the couch as he speaks, “I guess it can be narrowed down to when we came across each other at the opening night of Creevey’s gallery.”
“Hmm. We weren’t together then. Not for a long while still,” Weasley comments.
Luna nods, “And what keeps you two together?”
Weasley’s answer is immediate and without a second thought, “Each other.”
“You are such a sap. Malfoy snorts and glares at Weasley.
“But you’re not denying the answer!”
Malfoy doesn’t bother to dignify that with an answer and looks at Luna, waiting for the next question.
Luna complies with a grin, “How were you able to keep it a secret? The first time and the second time around.”
“The first time wasn’t so hard. There was real antagonism…”
“… no matter what we did when alone together,” Weasley finishes.
Malfoy only nods and continues, “It wasn’t hard to keep the relationship a secret.”
“Especially when there wasn’t one to begin with. Nothing normal, at least.” Weasley shakes his head and about to run his fingers through his hair, when Malfoy swats the hand away with a glare. They exchange a short glaring contest before Weasley breaks away to answer Luna instead, “I think the only time we actually had a decent conversation was Seventh Year.”
“And by then, there really was a lot going on.” Malfoy sighs. “We were growing up and involved in the War, for one. Figures that our first and last decent conversation was a bet.”
They both snort at the same time and then look at each other in amused surprise.
”Second time around,” Malfoy starts, “we weren't really hiding but we didn't announce it to the world, either.”
“Yeah. Pictures were taken and the tabloids ran with it. But, since we weren't saying anything, no one could affirm or deny nothing.” Weasley snickers. “Draco's idea to just let the press be. Admittedly, I panicked the first time I saw a picture of us together in the WizStyle magazine. Tabloids had always been Harry Potter's forte, yes?”
Malfoy nods in affirmation.
“True that,” Luna says with a thoughtful frown. “Did you ever regret anything? Especially during The War. You two were on different sides... well, at the beginning, anyway.”
Malfoy takes a while to answer. “A lot.” He looks at Weasley and waits.
“Nothing on the war front,” Weasley finally says. “Everyone has a story to tell about the War and nothing about War brought us together. If anything, it’s only brought us farther away from each other.”
Awkward silence reigns supreme until Weasley’s sigh breaks it. “I would have let him die, I think.”
Malfoy rests his hand on Weasley’s shoulder and tries to make light of the matter, “Knew you had it in you.”
Weasley just rolls his eyes. “Harry saved Draco. Of which, I will always be grateful for.”
Malfoy’s hand squeezes one last time and then lets go.
That seems to be the end of that. Luna says nothing and lets the silence stretch to a point of being unbearable. You glance at her for cue but she’s watching them kindly. Then a teasing smile breaks out of her face, “Were you already involved with each other in 2018? That was the first time you two were seen together outside of social functions.”
“No, not really,” Malfoy answers with a shake of his head. “We’ve gone out a couple of times since the gallery to reacquaint with each other as friends.”
“We’ve never been friends before, you see,” Weasley provides as way of explanation.
”I see,” Luna accepts the answers lightly and moves on. “We remember the first time you two posed together. Is there a story behind that? Because the rumor mill has it that Colin Creevey was specifically called in.”
“Actually, yes,” Weasley grins with a faraway look on his face. “Colin’s an old friend and his photography’s what made us acknowledge each other beyond the thorn in the past.”
Malfoy says nothing else. He does nod in agreement.
“Ronald, your divorce with Hermione was shocking news since you two looked so happy and content. Is Draco the cause of it?” Luna’s voice has gone terse at this particular question, perhaps because this has been a subject of debate in every tabloid for a long while now.
Weasley shakes his head. “No. Draco doesn’t factor in at all until a few years later from our divorce. She was successful and busy with her profession while I was still at the low end of what will be my career in Wizard Chess. Don’t get me wrong, we were happy whenever we had time together with our family. But in the end, it felt more like a cage. We are best friends, first and foremost before we’ve been husband and wife. The divorce brought us closer, believe it or not.”
Luna seems satisfied with the answer. She turns towards Malfoy and asks the same question.
“Almost the same answer, in truth. The few times I’ve seen Ron was during the War Memorials and the occasional meeting I’ve had with clients who are into chess. But beyond that, Ron’s been a part of the past I’ve wanted locked away and left behind. I had a business to run, a name to rebuild and a family that needs my attention.”
“How did your friends and family take the news when the gossip was proven true?”
“Harry was surprised and wanted to know all the embarrassing details. Actually, he even wanted to know if I fancied him at some point.” Weasley laughs at the memory then sobers up quickly. “Hermione wanted to know if I’ve cheated during our marriage.” Weasley sighs. “And the answer is still no. I did love her. I still do, as a matter of fact. She’ll always be the one woman I fought for and built a family with. I don’t think there will ever be another one like her in my life.”
“Careful, Ronald. You might make Draco jealous,” Luna jokes.
“He still gets jealous.” Weasley snorts and moves away from the slap he obviously knew coming.
Malfoy rolls his eyes. “Who wouldn’t be when he talks of her like that? And as for my friends, it was anticlimactic. What they saw was business opportunity and a way to strengthen my name and reputation into this new world.”
“And I’m still sure, you enjoy that privilege.” Weasley gives Malfoy a narrow look.
“Well, I can’t deny my involvement with you has brought more amiable business negotiations. You do me good, Weasley.” Malfoy returns the look with a sly grin.
Luna coughs. “And your children?”
“A bit trickier with the children,” Weasley admits. “The divorce was hard enough to explain. And this one with Draco is still a sour topic to my eldest son and it has nothing to do with Draco being a Malfoy.” Weasley sighs heavily and rubs the bridge of his nose. “My daughter’s welcomed Draco with the curiosity of a child meeting a new uncle and friend. The same goes with my other son.”
“As for my only son, he’s thrown a tantrum over it.” Malfoy can’t seem to help the amusement to trickle from his tone. “The thing about tantrums is that it comes like a storm but blows away and leaves a blank slate. After he’s calmed down, he hasn’t stopped asking about when the next visit is to Ron’s children. It can be lonely growing up as an only child. Knowing Ron has a small pack probably helped a lot.”
“Does publicity impact on your relationship? You're both public figures and Ronald, you're running for Grand Master status in Wizard Chess. Did this whole thing affect your chances?”
“The publicity took some getting used to,” Weasley admits. “I still wait for the day that people get tired of making a spectacle of us. As for Wizard Chess, there are no rules against how we live our personal lives. As long as I keep playing and winning my games, everything should be fine.”
Malfoy shrugs nonchalantly, “Publicity is publicity. I will be honest in saying that all these exposure has done wonders to my stocks. But I do share Ron’s sentiment on some privacy. We’ve gone public in the hopes of correcting and taming the gossips. At least now that we’re available for comment, there’d be less lies out there.”
“That’s...” Luna tilts her head and then nods, not really completing her train of thought. “It makes sense. A few more questions and we’re done. I can already tell you’re both tired.”
Weasley takes a sip from his tea and grins. “Nah, we promised so here we are.”
“Very well,” Luna grins. “Is your relationship affected by on-the-job stress? Ronald’s tourney schedules are hectic and I'm sure Draco is equally busy. How do you find time with each other?”
“It’s always something we argue about,” they both say at the same time and then they laugh.
”It's really hard to imagine the romance with such busy lives,” Luna comments.
“Do we have romance going on? And I wasn’t told?” Weasley asks Malfoy, who only frowns at him in confusion.
“What romance are you talking about?” Malfoy asks in return.
Luna rolls her eyes at this. “Seriously, now.”
“It’s true. We work. We go home. We sleep,” says Weasley.
“That’s really boring.” Luna pouts at Weasley and looks at Draco for a better answer.
“I might die of shock if Ron provides for a candle-lit romantic dinner. There’s no sweet bone in that body of his.”
“Hey now, I’ve read books on it.” Weasley is defensive, which Malfoy obviously finds funny if his grin is any indication.
“All joking aside, though,” Weasley starts again, “we’ve had twenty years of silence and separation to grow. We’re no longer the hormonal teenagers who can’t get enough of each other’s skin.”
“It’s not perfect but missing each other is part of the chase.”
“Is marriage about to factor in your future?”
Their reaction to that particular question is a moment of hilarity. They both seem horrified at the prospect of marrying each other.
“No,” they say in unison.
“Once is enough, thank you.” Malfoy pinched the bridge of his nose in a wince.
“Definitely.” Weasley sighs. “I don’t think I can go through all that again.”
Luna laughs at them. “Alright, but I want to be invited just in case. Moving on to the next question…” She grins at the card she holds and looks up, “How adventurous is sex?”
“The Quibbler editors are such perverts.” Malfoy huffs and glares at Luna.
“We’re not that young anymore. What do you think?” Weasley grins and doesn’t really answer.
“With how Ronald was at Hogwarts, I didn’t think he’d grow into a prude at his old age.” Luna laughs louder this time and it takes a long moment before she calms down. The comment is a curious thought, if anything.
“Now that everyone's watching your relationship (and probably more so than your careers), do you feel stressed or the need to make this work?”
“It’s always stressful regardless of whether someone’s watching or not,” Malfoy answers for the both of them. “You’re all voyeurs. We do the work.”
Luna hums in thought but eventually nods. “Lastly, are you happy?”
“Define happiness, Luna,” Weasley says and Malfoy looks on curiously at Luna.
It is at that particular moment that Luna’s eyes shine like a child who’s been asked if she believes in miracles. “Happiness is when all the wrong things are finally right, Ronald.”
“Then I guess I am,” Weasley’s smile is a reflection of Malfoy’s.
Luna reaches over and envelopes the men in a tight embrace. She loosens her hold only to gaze long and hard in Weasley’s eyes, “Ronald, I still see the boy you once were when I look at you -- the boy with a rare card from the chocolate frog box.”
Weasley laughs softly and his eyes slide to catch a glimpse of Malfoy next to him. He hugs Luna one last time and then pushes away.
“Thank you for the interview, both of you.” Luna straightens up and fixes her long skirt. “Go on. We don't want to take up the rest of your day off from work.”
You watch as the last of their long goodbyes are said and done. The couple leaves the suite deep in conversation or argument; it’s hard to tell after all that. You close the notebook that still sports an empty page and you only realize that now.
“They have that effect on people. You get distracted a lot.” Luna only winks at you and takes the empty notebook and quill from your hands and puts them on the table. She then hands you a single photograph. “Colin always uses a muggle camera. Isn’t it a wonder?
"Don’t you worry. You’ll remember what’s most important when you write your article.” She pats your hand and leaves you alone in the suite with the frozen photograph of Weasley and Malfoy and their memories.