Fic No Challenge: Stranger Things pt. 2
Title: Stranger Things
Author/Artist: singlemomsummer
Pairing(s): Harry/Draco
Word Count/Art Medium: 5156 total, 2903 this part
Rating: PG
Contains (Highlight to view): *Slight AU (Fred Lives)*
Disclaimer:Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you so much to my beta dxl and to the lovely ladies of Chatzy! Especially cpk, kf, cf, and tt!! You guys helped me so much and without you this never would have been finished. Originally written for hp_harlequin
Summary: Harry is successful in everything except one. His love life.
To: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 27 May 2004
Subject: We’ve all made mistakes
‘Harry’
I think that we were all too young to be in that war but we all had our parts to play. Merlin knows I had to grow up quick. I think we all made mistakes though and I like to believe that what we did in the past isn’t really important. It’s what we do to shape our future that matters. You would think that people would be ready to put the past behind them after what everyone went through. I mean, wasn’t there enough hatred already? Didn’t anyone learn anything from what happened? I think that everyone deserves a second chance, no one is truly irredeemable unless they make it so themselves.
I also think that our childhoods had a lot to do with the way things happened. Mine wasn’t great; I’ve already mentioned a bit about my family but there’s more to it. I don’t think they ever wanted me, in fact I know it. They made it pretty clear all through my childhood. There were so many times I wished I could just live at Hogwarts all the time and never go home. I guess that gave me a pretty big push to fight for it. There were more factors of course but really, it was my first home, I wasn’t willing to give that up for anything. I’m happy to say I’ve overcome all of that and am perfectly settled now. I can’t say I’m completely without baggage but are any of us? I think we just do the best that we can to move on and be happy.
So, what about your childhood? I know you said you were spoiled, but was there more? What did you want to do with your life? What did you dream about?
Until next time,
‘James’
To: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 28 May 2004
Subject: SPOILED BRAT!
‘James’
No, really, I was a spoiled brat! I thought the sun shined out my arse and my parents raised me to believe it. They were wonderful, even if they were rather indulgent. I wanted to be just like my father; I thought he was so amazing and he was the perfect example of the best wizard there was. He taught me that we were better than the ‘common’ people so I thought that I would rule everything one day. Yes, I really was a little bugger. I think had things continued to go the way they were I would have worked my way to Minister of Magic, or at least as close as I could get. Of course the war really disillusioned me. It was hard on my parents and for the first time I really saw that the rest of the world didn’t see things the same.
Sadly, I haven’t figured out exactly what I want to do now that the war is over. Most of my time is taken up with just managing the family businesses and keeping my father out of trouble. I think some of the things he experienced broke him. The mind healers don’t have an answer; they just say that we should keep reminding him of things in our daily lives and give him some connection to reality. Some days it’s hard though. I’ve caught him in the study before, acting like his old self and ranting about things that happened years ago. My mother is much better but she can’t handle him on her own.
My ultimate goal at this point though is to get everything in order enough that I can hire someone to run things while I try out my own paths. It might be that all I’m suited for are our regular dealings but I want to think that there is more for me. I hope that doesn’t bother you, that I’m not as settled as I could be, but I figure I’m still young and there’s time yet.
I’m sorry to hear about your own relatives, I can’t imagine feeling that way. If you ever want to talk about it though, I’m a pretty good listener. So, that said, what did you dream of when you were in that place? Did you achieve your dreams?
Your friend,
‘Harry’
To: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 28 May 2004
Subject: Dreams
‘Harry’
I don’t think that it’s bad that you haven’t chosen a path yet. You are very right, there is time. You’re young; you have your whole life ahead of you. I hope you don’t think I’m out of place but I think it would do you good to just go out and experience things. Try things you’ve never tried before and find out who you really are! I think it would be fun to do things with you too.
I’m sorry to hear about your father. I can’t imagine what you must be going through, but I suppose it’s what you do for the ones you love. Have you looked into hiring someone to help? I mean, I know that you love him and want to be there for him, but maybe you should get a home-healer that could help when you need a break. You would still be there, just you wouldn’t be alone. Think about it. It’s not a bad thing to ask for help.
My dreams were pretty simple when I was little. More than anything I just wanted to belong. I think I found that through the years and especially at school (although sometimes were rough.) To be honest though, I didn’t believe I would even survive the war. Once I did I was kind of lost. Do you know what I mean? Like for years I was ready to die and the prospect of living became terrifying. Of course lots of people expected me to do one thing or another but in the end I chose my own path. My current occupation is definitely not what was predicted but I enjoy it. I think it’s pretty fulfilling and the only real complaint I have is that at times it is very time-consuming. My friends have been begging me to delegate some of my tasks though, and I may do that. I just never had a reason before. I mean, going home to an empty house gets very lonely after awhile. I think though, if things work out between us, I will try it. I would love to have more time if I had something to spend it on that made me happy.
Okay, my turn. How do you feel about children? Do you want to have any someday? I always imagined myself having a big family but now that I’m older I’ve changed my mind. I still want at least one, but I don’t think that more than one or two would be right for me. It is something I see as important though, so I would need a man that isn’t averse to having at least one. Not right away of course, we have plenty of time, but someday. I think I’d like to settle down in a nice house with lots of room and just enjoy family life.
Have I scared you away yet?
‘James’
P.S. I’ll be going away for a few days so don’t worry if you don’t hear back right away.
To: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 29 May 2004
Subject: Time
‘James’
Time is a funny thing, isn’t it? When you don’t have someone to liven it up it can drag by, but when you finally find something that makes you happy it seems there is never enough! I appreciate that you would try to make more for me if we get that far (which is looking pretty likely) and I will try my best to make it worth your while.
Children? Well, I guess it had to come up sometime. To be completely honest I’ve always just expected to have one. It’s part of my duty as the last member of my bloodline. It’s my job to ensure the continuation of our name. I guess I really didn’t ever think about if I wanted one though. I would like to think that I’ve learned enough to be a good father without spoiling like my parents did. I don’t think I’m ready yet, we’re wizards; we have many years before settling down like that. I find your vision of a future home appealing though. In fact I would like to think that I see us both (well, how I imagine you, which you must know is very flattering) sitting together, watching our children play in the gardens. Maybe just one, but two seems good as well.
So enough serious talk I suppose. Well, except this: I think we’ve talked enough. I really think that we could have something here and I really don’t think our identities are going to change that. So, here’s what I propose. You go on your trip, have a good time (or not whatever the case may be) and when you come back it will almost be my birthday. I’m turning 24 next week and I think I want to spend the day with you. So, if you’re up for it, meet me at The Bouncing Bulb at noon on June 5th. I’ll be reading the Daily Prophet, and if there are others doing the same I’ll put mine upside down, haha. If you don’t show then I know you’re not ready and it’s okay, I’ll come back here and wait for your response. If you’re there though, and I hope you are, then I want to have a great birthday with you.
Yours,
‘Harry’
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry sat back in his chair and scrubbed his hand over his face. June 5th, that was only two days away. He had just arrived back at work from his trip, five days away at a Muggle conference on journalism. It wasn’t all bad, he always enjoyed meeting with other people in his field, even if he had to lie about the specific nature of his publication. He definitely missed talking to ‘Harry’ though. He couldn’t believe just how close he felt to a man he only knew through a computer.
Really though, should he doubt it? It wasn’t like his life hadn’t been filled with oddities up to this point anyway. Why not one more. And really, if this man was anything like his emails implied, he could see himself building a happy life with him. There was nothing for it; Harry would go meet his mystery man.
~~~~~~~~~~
The doorbell startled Harry as he was looking through his closet. He stood and jogged down the stairs to answer the door, finding Hermione standing there looking smug with several bags thrown over her shoulder.
“I figured you might need some help so here I am.”
Harry chuckled as he stepped back. “Yeah, I’m pretty hopeless right now. I don’t have the foggiest of what to wear tomorrow. I’m so nervous, what if he takes one look at who I am and decides he doesn’t want the baggage?”
Hermione pushed her way past him and moved up the stairs towards the bedroom, calling behind her, “Pfft, if he’s anything like you say he is then he’ll be perfectly fine with who you are.” She threw the bags onto his bed and turned, “Besides, I’ve got the clothes situation under control.”
Harry approached the bed warily, picking up one of the bags and peering inside. “You didn’t.”
“Oh, I did, and you’ll thank me for it soon enough. Just thank me I didn’t bring Ginny, she wanted to set up a whole fashion show for you.”
“Thanks for saving me then” Harry smiled and pulled out the shirt in the first bag. “So, you honestly think this will look good on me?”
“Just try it on already!”
He took the bags and walked into the bathroom, changing quickly and admiring his reflection before turning and leaving the room.
“See! You look wonderful! Turn around so I can get the whole picture.”
Harry turned in a slow circle while Hermione admired the way the sleek pants and shirt clung to his form. She smiled appreciatively. “Now then, just your hair needs fixing and I’ve set you up with an appointment for ten tomorrow at Luna’s salon so don’t be late.”
Hermione stepped up to Harry suddenly and embraced him. “It’s going to be okay you know. Even if he turns out to be a total jerk it’s okay, at least you’ll have tried. And really I don’t think that he will be. If even half of what you’ve told me is true he’s going to be great and the two of you will have a great time. Now have you made all the arrangements? Justin’s going to take care of things for you?”
“Yes, Hermione. I’m not a complete idiot after all. Just because I’m nervous doesn’t mean that I can’t handle myself.”
“I know you can, I just worry sometimes. It’s like you’re socially stunted and I have to admit I feel a bit responsible for you. You’re like my brother; I don’t like to see you unhappy. And don’t lie to me! I know you’ve been lonely. It’s time you found someone. You deserve it.”
Harry smiled at Hermione “Thanks, ‘Mione, I know you mean well. Now get home before Ron wonders if I’ve stole you away.” He ducked the swat she sent at his head and laughed as he walked her to the door.
~~~~~~~~~~
It was bright and sunny as he approached The Bouncing Bulb. He tried to appear confident regardless of how much he was shaking inside. He knew he looked good at least. Luna had managed to work his rat’s nest into something reasonably stylish and the clothes that Hermione had picked out fit like a dream. The rest was up to him.
The bell rang as he stepped through the door and he quickly scanned the occupants. There were several people perusing copies of his paper, but only a few men. Among those was Draco Malfoy. He never expected to run into him here, let alone see that his paper was upside down and he had looked up expectantly at the sound of the bell.
Harry reached a hand out and braced himself against the wall for a moment while his turbulent thoughts caught up with him. ‘Harry’ was Draco. Draco was his mystery man. The irony of Draco’s choice in a pseudonym wasn’t lost on Harry. He must have thought he was so clever. Harry’s mind was screaming, “Run!” and he was so tempted to turn and walk out the door.
Draco Bloody Malfoy.
Out of all of the possible people to find in a dating service? But he did promise the other man that he would give him a chance, regardless of who he was and the service did claim that they were a perfect match and it wasn’t known to be wrong. The way that Fred and George set it up was said to be foolproof and their success attested to that fact.
In the end Harry’s Gryffindor nature won and he stood up straight, gathered his confidence and approached Draco with a soft smile on his face. The blond looked up with a glint in his eye as he watched Harry come nearer to his table. “What do you want, Potter? I’m waiting for someone.”
“I know, Draco.” Harry’s tone was soft, measured. He was trying his hardest not to scare Draco away before they had a chance to talk. “May I have a seat?”
“You? No, that’s impossible, you can’t be him. There is no way that you are the person I’ve been talking to.”
“Don’t you think that I’ve already been through that the second I saw you, ‘Harry’?”
Harry took advantage of Draco’s shocked silence to sit down at the small table. “Look, it’s a shock to me too, but you asked me to give you a second chance and I’m still here. I guess I’ll have to ask you to grant me the same. The system matched us up, obviously neither of us have been happy, can we just give it a chance?”
Draco closed his mouth and ran a hand over his face, visibly composing himself. “You’re right. We’re different people now I suppose. I think we established that in our correspondence. I guess I can see where this thing goes.”
Harry smiled and reached into his pocket, pulling out a shrunken gift box that he set on the table and restored to its proper size. “Happy Birthday. I hope you like it. I thought maybe we could use them sometime, well, if things go farther than today.” His eyes were hopeful as he watched Draco reach out a hand and pull the package to him, unwrapping it slowly, carefully. He lifted up the copy of The Absolute Beginner’s Cookbook and eyed it with amusement before setting it aside and unfolding the apron with ‘Kiss the Cook’ emblazoned across the front in bright letters. He looked up at Harry and smiled.
“We’ll see. Let’s just get through today first.” He reached out a hand warily and placed it gently on one of Harry’s. “Well, I have quite the day planned; I hope you can keep up with me.”
2903 words = 97 pts for HUFFLEPUFF!!
Author/Artist: singlemomsummer
Pairing(s): Harry/Draco
Word Count/Art Medium: 5156 total, 2903 this part
Rating: PG
Contains (Highlight to view): *Slight AU (Fred Lives)*
Disclaimer:Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you so much to my beta dxl and to the lovely ladies of Chatzy! Especially cpk, kf, cf, and tt!! You guys helped me so much and without you this never would have been finished. Originally written for hp_harlequin
Summary: Harry is successful in everything except one. His love life.
To: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 27 May 2004
Subject: We’ve all made mistakes
‘Harry’
I think that we were all too young to be in that war but we all had our parts to play. Merlin knows I had to grow up quick. I think we all made mistakes though and I like to believe that what we did in the past isn’t really important. It’s what we do to shape our future that matters. You would think that people would be ready to put the past behind them after what everyone went through. I mean, wasn’t there enough hatred already? Didn’t anyone learn anything from what happened? I think that everyone deserves a second chance, no one is truly irredeemable unless they make it so themselves.
I also think that our childhoods had a lot to do with the way things happened. Mine wasn’t great; I’ve already mentioned a bit about my family but there’s more to it. I don’t think they ever wanted me, in fact I know it. They made it pretty clear all through my childhood. There were so many times I wished I could just live at Hogwarts all the time and never go home. I guess that gave me a pretty big push to fight for it. There were more factors of course but really, it was my first home, I wasn’t willing to give that up for anything. I’m happy to say I’ve overcome all of that and am perfectly settled now. I can’t say I’m completely without baggage but are any of us? I think we just do the best that we can to move on and be happy.
So, what about your childhood? I know you said you were spoiled, but was there more? What did you want to do with your life? What did you dream about?
Until next time,
‘James’
To: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 28 May 2004
Subject: SPOILED BRAT!
‘James’
No, really, I was a spoiled brat! I thought the sun shined out my arse and my parents raised me to believe it. They were wonderful, even if they were rather indulgent. I wanted to be just like my father; I thought he was so amazing and he was the perfect example of the best wizard there was. He taught me that we were better than the ‘common’ people so I thought that I would rule everything one day. Yes, I really was a little bugger. I think had things continued to go the way they were I would have worked my way to Minister of Magic, or at least as close as I could get. Of course the war really disillusioned me. It was hard on my parents and for the first time I really saw that the rest of the world didn’t see things the same.
Sadly, I haven’t figured out exactly what I want to do now that the war is over. Most of my time is taken up with just managing the family businesses and keeping my father out of trouble. I think some of the things he experienced broke him. The mind healers don’t have an answer; they just say that we should keep reminding him of things in our daily lives and give him some connection to reality. Some days it’s hard though. I’ve caught him in the study before, acting like his old self and ranting about things that happened years ago. My mother is much better but she can’t handle him on her own.
My ultimate goal at this point though is to get everything in order enough that I can hire someone to run things while I try out my own paths. It might be that all I’m suited for are our regular dealings but I want to think that there is more for me. I hope that doesn’t bother you, that I’m not as settled as I could be, but I figure I’m still young and there’s time yet.
I’m sorry to hear about your own relatives, I can’t imagine feeling that way. If you ever want to talk about it though, I’m a pretty good listener. So, that said, what did you dream of when you were in that place? Did you achieve your dreams?
Your friend,
‘Harry’
To: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 28 May 2004
Subject: Dreams
‘Harry’
I don’t think that it’s bad that you haven’t chosen a path yet. You are very right, there is time. You’re young; you have your whole life ahead of you. I hope you don’t think I’m out of place but I think it would do you good to just go out and experience things. Try things you’ve never tried before and find out who you really are! I think it would be fun to do things with you too.
I’m sorry to hear about your father. I can’t imagine what you must be going through, but I suppose it’s what you do for the ones you love. Have you looked into hiring someone to help? I mean, I know that you love him and want to be there for him, but maybe you should get a home-healer that could help when you need a break. You would still be there, just you wouldn’t be alone. Think about it. It’s not a bad thing to ask for help.
My dreams were pretty simple when I was little. More than anything I just wanted to belong. I think I found that through the years and especially at school (although sometimes were rough.) To be honest though, I didn’t believe I would even survive the war. Once I did I was kind of lost. Do you know what I mean? Like for years I was ready to die and the prospect of living became terrifying. Of course lots of people expected me to do one thing or another but in the end I chose my own path. My current occupation is definitely not what was predicted but I enjoy it. I think it’s pretty fulfilling and the only real complaint I have is that at times it is very time-consuming. My friends have been begging me to delegate some of my tasks though, and I may do that. I just never had a reason before. I mean, going home to an empty house gets very lonely after awhile. I think though, if things work out between us, I will try it. I would love to have more time if I had something to spend it on that made me happy.
Okay, my turn. How do you feel about children? Do you want to have any someday? I always imagined myself having a big family but now that I’m older I’ve changed my mind. I still want at least one, but I don’t think that more than one or two would be right for me. It is something I see as important though, so I would need a man that isn’t averse to having at least one. Not right away of course, we have plenty of time, but someday. I think I’d like to settle down in a nice house with lots of room and just enjoy family life.
Have I scared you away yet?
‘James’
P.S. I’ll be going away for a few days so don’t worry if you don’t hear back right away.
To: 676521@4ms.wiz.uk
From: 267829@4ms.wiz.uk
Date: 29 May 2004
Subject: Time
‘James’
Time is a funny thing, isn’t it? When you don’t have someone to liven it up it can drag by, but when you finally find something that makes you happy it seems there is never enough! I appreciate that you would try to make more for me if we get that far (which is looking pretty likely) and I will try my best to make it worth your while.
Children? Well, I guess it had to come up sometime. To be completely honest I’ve always just expected to have one. It’s part of my duty as the last member of my bloodline. It’s my job to ensure the continuation of our name. I guess I really didn’t ever think about if I wanted one though. I would like to think that I’ve learned enough to be a good father without spoiling like my parents did. I don’t think I’m ready yet, we’re wizards; we have many years before settling down like that. I find your vision of a future home appealing though. In fact I would like to think that I see us both (well, how I imagine you, which you must know is very flattering) sitting together, watching our children play in the gardens. Maybe just one, but two seems good as well.
So enough serious talk I suppose. Well, except this: I think we’ve talked enough. I really think that we could have something here and I really don’t think our identities are going to change that. So, here’s what I propose. You go on your trip, have a good time (or not whatever the case may be) and when you come back it will almost be my birthday. I’m turning 24 next week and I think I want to spend the day with you. So, if you’re up for it, meet me at The Bouncing Bulb at noon on June 5th. I’ll be reading the Daily Prophet, and if there are others doing the same I’ll put mine upside down, haha. If you don’t show then I know you’re not ready and it’s okay, I’ll come back here and wait for your response. If you’re there though, and I hope you are, then I want to have a great birthday with you.
Yours,
‘Harry’
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry sat back in his chair and scrubbed his hand over his face. June 5th, that was only two days away. He had just arrived back at work from his trip, five days away at a Muggle conference on journalism. It wasn’t all bad, he always enjoyed meeting with other people in his field, even if he had to lie about the specific nature of his publication. He definitely missed talking to ‘Harry’ though. He couldn’t believe just how close he felt to a man he only knew through a computer.
Really though, should he doubt it? It wasn’t like his life hadn’t been filled with oddities up to this point anyway. Why not one more. And really, if this man was anything like his emails implied, he could see himself building a happy life with him. There was nothing for it; Harry would go meet his mystery man.
~~~~~~~~~~
The doorbell startled Harry as he was looking through his closet. He stood and jogged down the stairs to answer the door, finding Hermione standing there looking smug with several bags thrown over her shoulder.
“I figured you might need some help so here I am.”
Harry chuckled as he stepped back. “Yeah, I’m pretty hopeless right now. I don’t have the foggiest of what to wear tomorrow. I’m so nervous, what if he takes one look at who I am and decides he doesn’t want the baggage?”
Hermione pushed her way past him and moved up the stairs towards the bedroom, calling behind her, “Pfft, if he’s anything like you say he is then he’ll be perfectly fine with who you are.” She threw the bags onto his bed and turned, “Besides, I’ve got the clothes situation under control.”
Harry approached the bed warily, picking up one of the bags and peering inside. “You didn’t.”
“Oh, I did, and you’ll thank me for it soon enough. Just thank me I didn’t bring Ginny, she wanted to set up a whole fashion show for you.”
“Thanks for saving me then” Harry smiled and pulled out the shirt in the first bag. “So, you honestly think this will look good on me?”
“Just try it on already!”
He took the bags and walked into the bathroom, changing quickly and admiring his reflection before turning and leaving the room.
“See! You look wonderful! Turn around so I can get the whole picture.”
Harry turned in a slow circle while Hermione admired the way the sleek pants and shirt clung to his form. She smiled appreciatively. “Now then, just your hair needs fixing and I’ve set you up with an appointment for ten tomorrow at Luna’s salon so don’t be late.”
Hermione stepped up to Harry suddenly and embraced him. “It’s going to be okay you know. Even if he turns out to be a total jerk it’s okay, at least you’ll have tried. And really I don’t think that he will be. If even half of what you’ve told me is true he’s going to be great and the two of you will have a great time. Now have you made all the arrangements? Justin’s going to take care of things for you?”
“Yes, Hermione. I’m not a complete idiot after all. Just because I’m nervous doesn’t mean that I can’t handle myself.”
“I know you can, I just worry sometimes. It’s like you’re socially stunted and I have to admit I feel a bit responsible for you. You’re like my brother; I don’t like to see you unhappy. And don’t lie to me! I know you’ve been lonely. It’s time you found someone. You deserve it.”
Harry smiled at Hermione “Thanks, ‘Mione, I know you mean well. Now get home before Ron wonders if I’ve stole you away.” He ducked the swat she sent at his head and laughed as he walked her to the door.
~~~~~~~~~~
It was bright and sunny as he approached The Bouncing Bulb. He tried to appear confident regardless of how much he was shaking inside. He knew he looked good at least. Luna had managed to work his rat’s nest into something reasonably stylish and the clothes that Hermione had picked out fit like a dream. The rest was up to him.
The bell rang as he stepped through the door and he quickly scanned the occupants. There were several people perusing copies of his paper, but only a few men. Among those was Draco Malfoy. He never expected to run into him here, let alone see that his paper was upside down and he had looked up expectantly at the sound of the bell.
Harry reached a hand out and braced himself against the wall for a moment while his turbulent thoughts caught up with him. ‘Harry’ was Draco. Draco was his mystery man. The irony of Draco’s choice in a pseudonym wasn’t lost on Harry. He must have thought he was so clever. Harry’s mind was screaming, “Run!” and he was so tempted to turn and walk out the door.
Draco Bloody Malfoy.
Out of all of the possible people to find in a dating service? But he did promise the other man that he would give him a chance, regardless of who he was and the service did claim that they were a perfect match and it wasn’t known to be wrong. The way that Fred and George set it up was said to be foolproof and their success attested to that fact.
In the end Harry’s Gryffindor nature won and he stood up straight, gathered his confidence and approached Draco with a soft smile on his face. The blond looked up with a glint in his eye as he watched Harry come nearer to his table. “What do you want, Potter? I’m waiting for someone.”
“I know, Draco.” Harry’s tone was soft, measured. He was trying his hardest not to scare Draco away before they had a chance to talk. “May I have a seat?”
“You? No, that’s impossible, you can’t be him. There is no way that you are the person I’ve been talking to.”
“Don’t you think that I’ve already been through that the second I saw you, ‘Harry’?”
Harry took advantage of Draco’s shocked silence to sit down at the small table. “Look, it’s a shock to me too, but you asked me to give you a second chance and I’m still here. I guess I’ll have to ask you to grant me the same. The system matched us up, obviously neither of us have been happy, can we just give it a chance?”
Draco closed his mouth and ran a hand over his face, visibly composing himself. “You’re right. We’re different people now I suppose. I think we established that in our correspondence. I guess I can see where this thing goes.”
Harry smiled and reached into his pocket, pulling out a shrunken gift box that he set on the table and restored to its proper size. “Happy Birthday. I hope you like it. I thought maybe we could use them sometime, well, if things go farther than today.” His eyes were hopeful as he watched Draco reach out a hand and pull the package to him, unwrapping it slowly, carefully. He lifted up the copy of The Absolute Beginner’s Cookbook and eyed it with amusement before setting it aside and unfolding the apron with ‘Kiss the Cook’ emblazoned across the front in bright letters. He looked up at Harry and smiled.
“We’ll see. Let’s just get through today first.” He reached out a hand warily and placed it gently on one of Harry’s. “Well, I have quite the day planned; I hope you can keep up with me.”
2903 words = 97 pts for HUFFLEPUFF!!