Transition

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Transition By Firesword
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~ Chapter Twenty-eight: Letters and Surprises ~

Time passed quickly as Harry spent his time unloading the things that were left in his school trunk, cuddling up to Draco, talking with Bluestone and Starkmind, playing with the house pets, and studying the books he had gotten from Vine and those that he had purchased in Diagon Alley.

While Harry was unpacking, he came across a dark emerald box and spent some time wondering how it had come into his possession. "Draco?" The Slytherin up from his book with an eyebrow raised elegantly.

"Yes?"

"Did you give me this?" Harry showed the box to him.

"No ... but isn't that something Dumbledore gave on the day we graduate?" Draco answered, putting his book down on the couch. Draco rose to his feet and went to his trunk. Then he started rummaging around. After several minutes of searching, he straightened his back and held up a similar box in his palm.

"Well..." Harry stared at the parcel in his hand, and shook it slightly. "It feels empty."

"Why don't you open it?" Draco suggested mildly as he tore off the wrapping of his own gift.

Harry shrugged and did as was suggested. He negligently dumped the contents of the box into his hand, then yelped when he saw a crystal-like object. He cursed and his heart thumped vigorously in his chest, then cursed again in relief for not dropping the gift.

"Harry, if that's how you always open your presents, I think I'll be very mad if I happen to find out that was how you opened your Christmas present," Draco said in a deceptively sweet voice.

Harry could only smile at Draco. He lowered his eyes and gazed at the trophy in his hands for a long time. The major body of the memento was an amber-colored crystal with a gold plate. His name and achievements were engraved on it. He glanced at Draco – the Slytherin's prize was smoky-grey in color but his plate was silver in appearance.

"Interesting," Draco said and then muttered an Unbreakable Charm on it. He performed the same spell on Harry's, snatched it out of Harry's hands, and briskly walked out of the bedroom.

Harry watched as Draco disappeared from his sight and shook his head. He stepped out of the room and saw that Draco had gone down. He's probably putting them on the mantelpiece.

"Harry! Post!" Starkmind called loudly.

Harry leaned over the staircase railing and chortled as he met Starkmind's face peering up at him. "I'll be right down!" he replied before making his descent.

However, he paused and watched as Bluestone sewed the hem of a shirt almost feverishly. He is working almost nonstop on those clothes. He had a piqued expression on his face when he finally arrived in the living room.

"What's wrong?" Draco asked.

"Nothing, but ... I keep having this feeling that something's about to happen," Harry said, giving Starkmind a sly look.

"What?" their ex-professor asked with an innocent expression. Starkmind handed a pile of letters to Harry.

"I'm worried about your husband. He's been stuck on that chair upstairs for five days already."

"Don't worry about him, Harry. He's just indulging himself."

For some reason, Harry did not really believe what Starkmind said. He shrugged and sat down on the couch to read his mail. Draco joined him and he grunted when a pair of feet rested on his lap.

"Don't do anything funny, okay?" he said absently as he raked open the flap of the envelope.

"Why do you think that?" Draco responded.

Harry merely made a noncommittal sound and smiled suddenly. He recognized the handwriting on the letter all too well – Hermione had written to him. A couple of photographs dropped from the envelope and he absently gathered them before giving it to a bored-looking Draco.

"Who's it from?" Draco asked as he retrieved the photographs.

"Hermione."

Then Harry ceased paying attention to his boyfriend and read Hermione's letter.

Hello Harry!

Are you and Draco all right? Have there been any more spying incidences? Anyway Harry, I read some of the books I have with me but I'm unable to find any permanent solutions. However, I have attached an excerpt, which I think may prove useful. If you're interested to read the more detailed version, I'm happy to lend you the book. Just owl me if you want to.

I'm not going to put on a cheery smile just because you say that everything is all right though. Harry, please be careful – both of you. I know this may sound strange, but I feel that the incident is connected to the accident that happened to the Slytherins. In that case, warn Draco to be more alert, all right?

I'm not exactly on holiday right now – I'm helping my parents out at the clinic as their assistant and receptionist. Harry, I don't know how to break it to them that I'm going to be a full-time witch – I received an offer from Kingsley. He wants me to try out the junior position of an Unspeakable. I haven't told Ron this ... how hard do you think he's going to object?

"Not very much, I think," Harry muttered.

"Not very much what?" Draco asked curiously, lifting his feet off Harry's thighs. He sat up and snuggled close to Harry.

"Hermione's asking whether Ron will explode if she becomes an Unspeakable," he replied, dropping a kiss on Draco's ear.

"It's her life ... and decision," Draco said wisely. "She shouldn't be too bothered by what the Weasel thinks."

Harry elbowed Draco lightly before reading the last paragraph of the letter.

Ron owls me frequently enough, but he's still mad at you. And Draco. Whichever. He knows about what had happened but he never mentions you in his messages, or talks about you when we meet. Oh, he and Ginny are helping Fred and George mind the store. Mrs. Weasley isn't too happy that Ron is disinterested in getting a Ministry job. I can understand how she feels – Ron did all right in OWLs and NEWTs and she must be wondering why he's not using his grades to the utmost advantage. And as for the ce Well, never mind that. Thanks for the photos, Harry, and here are the ones that were taken by my camera.

Lots of love,
Hermione.

PS: Don't spend too much time snuggling up to your boyfriend, Harry. September isn't far off, so you had better prepare to become the best assistant teacher. Study, Harry. Study! Don't be a bad influence to your students. Pass the right facts to them!

Draco was laughing hard when they came to the end of the postscript. "Merlin!" the fair-haired wizard gasped. "Are you that lazy, love?"

"Oh, shut up," Harry said, scowling. "Give me those." He tried to grouch, but Draco was distracting him from his efforts by licking his ear playfully. "Draco, the photographs." He took a deep breath and tried to ignore the pleasant sensations Draco's tongue was giving him.

Harry studied the photographs quickly before setting them on top of Hermione's letter, and then he placed the entire pile on the coffee table. The next letter came from Fred, George and Ginny Weasley. At Draco's insistence to snuggle against his side, he let the other wizard break the envelope open.

"This should be interesting," Draco said with a smile.

"Oh?" Harry peered into the letter and lifted his eyebrow. "It's a bloody script."

"Well..." Draco snorted with amusement.

Fred, George & Ginny

This is Fred. How are you, mate? I bet Hermione and Dumbledore have already given you their advice, so we wouldn't bore you with our-less-than-helpful ones.

George. George writing. When you reply, Harry, please keep it general – Mum doesn't know a thing. Dad does however. He wants us to tell you to 'be aware', whatever that means.

Ginny here. By the way, Harry, did you happen to encourage my brothers to trap Wood? It's just that when I came home to my bed, I found pictures of them ... okay, I don't want to get graphic, but I'm hinting.

Fred. What in the hell? Damn, can't cross hers out. She's threatening to blackmail us.

George. It is not your fault, Harry. I repeat: It's not your fault. This thing with you and that ferret isn't at all infectious. Oh, hello there, ferret. What are you doing there with Harry? Bouncing on his lap?

Harry could not stop the mirth from bubbling inside him. He glanced at Draco and clamped down on his chuckles when he noticed that Draco's left eye was twitching violently. "Love, calm down."

"I'm calm, Harry. I'm calm."

Harry resumed reading the letter.

Ginny. I'm definitely a little queasy about the entire thing. I hope you're not offended but ... ferret bouncing ... eeeewww. And guess what? I think the twins are going to send some sex-related toys to you, but I have no idea what they are.

Fred. Be careful of her, Harry. She's curious about how men get it on with other men.

George. Moreover, we aren't responsible for the things going inside her mind.

Ginny. Whatever. Take care, Harry. We all miss you!

F & G. We love you, too.

From the troublemakers,

FG2.

PS: Hey Malfoy, you're lucky. Harry's all yours. (The Twins.)

"Are you going to explain this to me, love?" Draco jabbed one slim finger on that statement.

Harry stared at the note for a second before looking back at Draco. "Uh ... no, Draco. I don't think so."

Draco's eyes narrowed to mere slits and Harry quickly moved on to the next letter. It was from Remus.

Hello, Harry.

How are you and Draco? And Starkmind and his husband? Do you like it there at Dancers' Vale? I am troubled to hear that you had an unfortunate encounter with a spy, whom I think, is terribly new to the activity. I know that Professor Dumbledore and others have probably given you advice, but one more would not hurt you. Whomever it was trying to get a glimpse of you, it is someone from the Vale. I heard from Tonks that Dancers' Vale is protected from outsiders; it is unlikely that someone from outside the community would be able to do magic that would affect the residents inside the Vale. So, observe. I hope you and Draco are happy at home.

Love, Remus.

PS: Draco, Severus has written you a message. Harry, I don't know whether I should be grateful about those photographs. It is not giving me an easy time.

Harry lifted his eyebrow and turned the letter over. "Draco."

"I know. What does it say?"

Harry peered at the small, cursive handwriting. "Is this really his? Snape's handwriting I mean."

Draco stared at it with a frown and nodded. "Yes. He usually writes this small when he's distracted. Read it for me, Harry. I can't focus on the words for some reason."

Harry nodded. "Here it goes. Mister Potter, I trust that you will read this message to Draco as I had placed a charm that will allow only you to read this. I am aware of the 'incident' and I am afraid that it is directed more to my godson than to you, hence the precaution. I order you to teach Occlumency and Legilimency – Occlumency is more important – to Draco." He lifted his eyebrow at the 'request'. "Should you suffer any difficulties in giving Draco answers or explanations, do not hesitate to approach Professor Reed." Harry flashed a scowl in Draco's direction when the latter started to chuckle. "If such a case should happen where you are unable to answer what is probably common sense, I strongly suggest that you go along with Draco."

He then placed the message on the table and turned sideways to watch Draco, who had doubled up with laughter. When the Slytherin did not seem to be able to stop chuckling, Harry groaned and slapped Draco's thigh lightly.

"Damn him," he muttered. Draco laughed harder. "Why is he always thinking the worst of me?"

"Probably because he knows you and the way you think?" Draco suggested, and his voice was light with mirth. Harry smiled upon hearing Draco's voice and caressed the sleek black-clothed thigh. "I thought you weren't in the mood for play."

"It's not like you mind at all," Harry said mockingly.

"Well ... since you're in the mood..."

Harry's eyes widened when Draco stood up, only to straddle his thighs. "Draco, what are y–" His statement was cut off when Draco's lips caught his, and they kissed languidly on the couch. Harry felt himself molding more and more into Draco, and did not realize that he had half-carried his lover and settled Draco down on the couch.

His fingers buried into the silky strands of pale gold hair and massaged Draco's scalp gently as their tongues danced and fought for dominance. He shivered – Draco had slid one hand under his shirt, and was rubbing his abdomen. Harry felt that it was strange that Draco's palm felt so hot, yet it felt good. A soft groan escaped from his lips when playful fingers teased him.

Harry pulled his head back and stared at Draco. A pair of half-lidded grey eyes looked up at him, and he thought that his lover was beautiful for the hundredth time. Harry felt that each time he was with Draco, the troubles they had became insignificant, and all that mattered was Draco and his need to let his lover know just how much he cherished each moment they spent together.

"Draco," Harry whispered and watched as his lover's dreamy eyes sparkled at the call. Harry bent forward and captured Draco's slightly swollen lips. Heat and desire coursed his entire being. Only Draco could make him feel like this.

He did not hear the strangled shout coming from the floor above him, or the loud thud of a chair as it fell, or the muffled groans. He was blind and deaf; he could only feel Draco. Harry latched on the side of Draco's neck and bit hard when his lover whimpered. Their bodies rocked mindlessly into each other and several minutes later, both wizards groaned. Their bodies shook as they climaxed, and he lifted his head so that Draco could kiss him. When he drew away, Draco's eyes were unfocused, and he was smiling dreamily.

"Like that?" Harry asked impishly.

"Obviously," Draco purred in response. "Merlin. I'd never expected we would be so daring to do this here, on the couch, inside the living room. Hell – this is exciting." He emphasized his words by grounding his hips into Harry again.

Harry wondered if he should carry his boyfriend up to their bedroom when they heard something. Draco and he looked in the direction of the front door where they could hear lively conversation.

"Verdi, knock on the door."

"Oh, shut up, you warlock. If you're that impatient, why don't you knock on it?"

"Hurry on, you two. We'll be late for the concert," a deep male voice said.

Following that, Harry and Draco heard two knocks.

"Damn," Draco squeaked. "Harry! What in the hell are we going to do?"

Harry swore. "Damn ... where's my wand?"

"Jason? Is that you?" Harry and Draco froze at the sound of Bluestone's voice.

"Yes!" Jason shouted in reply.

"Sorry, but I can't come down. What is it?"

"We just want to come and say that everything is in order!"

"Oh. Thanks!"

They heard the conversing folks say their farewells and turned to each other.

"Just what was that all about?" Draco asked worriedly. "Harry, do you think we should pester Bluestone and St – Elaviel? I feel that there's something odd happening."

"Do you think it'd be any good if I were to ask them, love? They will never give us a straight answer, until it's too late, or haven't you noticed?" Harry replied quietly.

"Now that you have pointed it out..." Draco's voice trailed off when Harry deliberately raked a finger on the inside of one slim thigh. He smiled wickedly, and cupped Draco's crotch. He leaned forward and kissed his boyfriend gently.

"Such a waste," he murmured. He continued to rub Draco until the flesh beneath his fingers hardened once more. Draco did not utter a sound, but looked up at him with lips slightly parted. As Harry had expected, Draco did not comment when he slipped his hand under the knees. "Hang on," Harry said, and Draco gently clasped his hands around the back of Harry's neck.

He carried Draco in his arms, and walked up the stairs cautiously. His boyfriend looked dreamy but mischievous at the same time. They were almost halfway up the staircase when Draco tugged at his hair gently. He stopped and looked at his lover inquiringly.

"What is it, my icy prince?" That caused Draco to burst out into chuckles. "What?" Harry asked, and felt slightly foolish.

"I should hope that I'm not as icy as my eyes in bed," Draco replied impishly. "I really can't wait to see what those twin friends of your had sent us. Sex toys ... how exciting."

"Hmmm."

"Harry?"

They started up the staircase again. "Yes?"

"I want to be on my hands and knees," Draco said in a small voice.

Harry almost dropped him. "What?" he asked in bewilderment.

"I want you to do me from behind."

Harry merely stared at Draco in shock. It was quite some time before he managed to move his limbs. No one was working at the landing – Harry gave a quick prayer of thanks that neither Bluestone nor Starkmind were there to witness them. He set Draco down, opened their bedroom door, and allowed Draco to precede him.

He closed the door quietly and locked it. Meanwhile, Draco gestured at the air with his wand. Harry approached Draco from behind, wrapped his arms about the slender waist and pulled his boyfriend against him. Then he brushed his lips against the back of Draco's fair neck.

Draco was warm and Harry's lips tingled pleasantly as they brushed across some fine hair. He waited until the Slytherin was done with spellcasting before he spoke.

"Draco," he began, after Draco lowered his arm. "Please don't stun me like that when I'm carrying you," he murmured.

"Don't you like me to surprise you?" Draco wriggled around and Harry stared at the tantalizing full lips.

"No, I don't mind, but..." Harry forgot what he wished to say and kissed Draco to make up for the silence. "Draco?"

"Hmmm?"

"Do you know that if you're exposed to very cold winds, you'll burn?"

"I'm not too sure what you are blathering about, love. But right now, I am so hot for you that I cannot think straight," Draco said seriously.

"Fortunately, I'm in a similar state so..."

The two lovers then spoke, not with words, but with touches, soft caresses and more kisses.

~*~

31st July 1998.

Bluestone watched Starkmind anxiously from his position on the bed. His state was easily defined, as he kept toying with the ends of his white-gold belt. Finally, after watching his husband for nearly fifteen minutes, Starkmind was at last satisfied with his hair.

"Dearheart, don't you think we should have told them about the outing?" he asked his chestnut-haired husband. "Earlier than now, I mean?"

"And spoil the surprise?"

"I thought the surprise for Harry are the presence of his friends," Bluestone said. He stood up and automatically straightened his robes.

"You should not worry, my great husband. It is not as though Harry and Draco dislike socializing," Starkmind replied and approached him. They exchanged a long kiss and a brief embrace. "And have you forgotten about Draco's little favor?"

Bluestone frowned and thought hard. Then he shook his head. "What favor?"

His husband sighed. "Let me remind you then. He came to us three nights ago. You were still working on your robe, but I thought you were paying attention to our conversation. Anyway, Draco needed a little encouragement."

"Oh ... that." Bluestone smiled as he remembered the talk.

"So, I was thinking that, perhaps, our performance will help him perform the surprise easily."

Bluestone chuckled softly. "I certainly did not expect Draco to be unfamiliar with the dominant role. I also thought Harry will not mind being bottom occasionally."

"It is not that but Draco feels as though he knows too little to direct their sex lives."

"He has a rather unusual personality, doesn't he?" Bluestone observed. "He is complicated."

"True. I have also told him that being in the role and doing it is the only way for him to know Harry the same way Harry knows him."

"Learning by experience."

"Of course."

Bluestone nodded. "Come on then. Let's gather the two and head down to the woods." Then he considered his husband and himself. "Dearheart, do you think we should wear something less extravagant?" Starkmind gave him a curious look. "What if they hex us or something? I don't think I want to see my handiwork turned into smithereens in a fit of anger."

"I don't think they'll go that far, my husband. I'll spank them."

~*~

They were curling up in bed, and were simply watching each other dreamily. Draco brushed his fingertips lightly on Harry's chest, and unconsciously undid the third button of his boyfriend's shirt. He closed his eyes in bliss as his palm ran down a newly exposed territory, and took a deep breath when he felt Harry tremble slightly.

He raised himself up using an elbow and gazed into Harry's eyes. "You have wonderful eyes, Harry," Draco murmured, and studied them as though they were pages of a book.

"Yours are just as remarkable, Draco," his boyfriend replied softly.

Draco pressed his cheek against Harry's palm when the latter raised it to caress his face. "Merlin. I feel so happy that I am certain I'll burst," he chuckled.

Harry's laughter filled the bedroom.

"Then I'm glad you are feeling as bubbly as I am. I was beginning to think that there may be something wrong with me," Harry said jovially.

"And we think that it is probably best if the two of you go out and have fun with us this evening," a voice from behind the door spoke. "Now, are the two of you decent enough? I'm coming in!"

"Elaviel!" Harry and Draco groaned at the same time. Grey-eyed Draco sighed as he studied Bluestone and Starkmind's smug expressions.

"Where are we going?" Harry inquired.

Starkmind did not answer immediately, but went over to the wardrobe that Harry and Draco shared. In the meantime, an amused-looking Bluestone was staring intently at Draco's hand that was, unfortunately, inside Harry's trousers.

Draco hastily removed his limb. However, he had no time to feel embarrassed because he suddenly found himself herded into the bathroom with an armful of clothing. Harry looked just as bewildered, and he held the robes that he had worn during the masquerade.

"Will someone tell us what's going on?" Harry asked in an exasperated voice.

Draco was too caught up by surprise earlier to notice that Bluestone and Starkmind were wearing elaborate robes. After he regained his composure, he stared at them incredulously. "I knew that the two of you were up to something," he said triumphantly. "So, are we going out to celebrate Harry's birthday?"

"Celebrate my birthday?" Harry squeaked.

"Partly, Draco. We're also going to celebrate our anniversary," Starkmind said brightly.

"But why do I have to wear this?" Harry asked. He was looking at the clothing in his hands.

"You won't regret it, Harry," Bluestone replied with a mysterious smile. Then the Veela winked at Draco, and he grinned.

"Love, what are you up to?" Harry asked suspiciously.

"Nothing, Harry. But I do have a surprise for you."

~*~

Harry and Draco walked closely together but they did not hold hands. Starkmind and Bluestone were slightly ahead of them, and Harry smiled as he witnessed the older couple laugh.

"They're really happy, aren't they?" Draco said dreamily.

"Yes," Harry agreed. "Bluestone is a saint. I'm quite glad that they didn't break up or divorce, because of me."

"You know, sometimes when I look at Starkmind – Elaviel, I mean, I find it hard to believe he taught us Defense."

"I get what you mean." He raked his hair back with his fingers. "He is different when Bluestone is with him." Then he stopped and tilted his head to one side. He was able to hear squeals of delight, laughter and music from where he stood.

"Seems like the party has already started," Draco said in an amused tone.

"Hurry up! Let's get the party into full swing!" Bluestone called out.

"Pipe down, Bluestone!" Harry replied with a wide grin. "Don't get too excited." Harry turned to Draco. "Is it my imagination, but are they acting younger than usual?"

"How should I know, love? Maybe it has something to do with their Veela heritage." Draco shrugged and sidled up to Harry suddenly. "Do you think you're different when you're with me, Harry?"

He blushed when Draco kissed him, and he shivered as his lover's arms slid sensuously down his sides. "You're wicked," he murmured against the warm and tender lips. "We'd better move, Draco." Draco smiled mischievously and took his hand. They started to walk towards the source of merriment, and the sounds became louder as they approached.

"Bloody hell," they breathed in unison as they took in the sight. The entire area was dazzling with so many multicolored lights for illumination. There were also a lot of food and drinks, and they were hovering almost everywhere.

"Happy birthday, Harry!"

Harry jumped and stared at the three giggling girls, who had been hiding behind a huge tree trunk. "Bloody hell ... Hermione?" Harry could not believe his eyes. "What in Merlin's name happened to your hair?" Harry gave Draco an astonished look, but Draco did not appear too affected by Hermione's new hairstyle.

"Nice haircut, Granger, but what does your boyfriend think about it?" Draco asked amiably, and Harry grew more surprised. Then he winced as Draco pinched him lightly on the arm. "It is your birthday so it is only fair that I be nice to your friends."

"Okay," Harry replied and grinned sheepishly. He turned back to his friends, and impulsively hugged the shorthaired Hermione and red-haired Ginny. "Do you want me to hug you too, Tonks?"

The Metamorphmagus cackled and eyed Draco mischievously. "I'm not going to risk it, Harry."

Harry cast a sly look at Draco. "How did you come here?" he asked them.

"Vine brought us here actually," Ginny answered.

"Oh. Hermione, you haven't answered Draco's question. Won't Ron complain about your hair or something?" he inquired.

"I don't really care what he thinks," Hermione replied with a slight shrug.

"Are the two of you fighting?"

"Don't we fight all the time?" Hermione said sarcastically. "It's just a small thing."

"Small thing?" Ginny interjected and looked seriously at Harry. "When Vine asked him whether he wants to come, he just sneered. Even Mum wanted to strangle him. I know Fred and George are planning something nasty for him tonight."

Damn. Harry started to feel guilty.

Then Draco's arm was around his waist. "Don't worry about it," Draco whispered, and Harry smiled gratefully.

"Aha! There's your birthday cake!" Tonks exclaimed cheerfully.

Bluestone was pushing a cart towards them, and as Tonks had mentioned, there was a huge cake waiting for him. There were gift-wrapped boxes along with it and he blushed, filled with embarrassment.

"You don't really have to give me presents," Harry said in a strained voice, even as Starkmind steered him around and positioned him behind the trolley. He felt so uncomfortable and pleaded with his friends not to sing.

"No." Draco's voice somehow penetrated the din the others made. "No, Harry. You should let us sing." Harry's friends looked at the speaker in total disbelief. Harry gazed at Draco for a long time and wondered why his lover's eyes looked sad. "All my life, I listened to others sing when it's my birthday. I have not yet sung a birthday song to anyone."

An incomprehensible emotion immobilized Harry for a few seconds and suddenly, he wanted to hug and kiss Draco. Fortunately, before he could embarrass them both, Hermione cleared her throat.

"Well, that pretty much decides it then. We're singing," she said.

"Wait! Wait!" They all turned to look, and found that it was the Svaniel twins. Their parents trailed leisurely after them, and Harry shook hands with Deran Svaniel. Vela kissed his cheek politely, before she moved on to greet Bluestone and Starkmind.

Anna and Miriel placed their gifts on the trolley and looked up at Harry. "Can we sing you a birthday song now?"

"All right. One, two, three!"

The twins started and then the others fell in. Harry was not really listening to them; he was somewhat preoccupied with gazing into a pair of grey eyes. He did not realize that they had finished singing until one of the twins asked if he was going to make a wish.

Harry smiled faintly as he wished, and then he blew out the candles. He took the knife Bluestone handed out and proceeded to cut the cake. "Ooops..." He grinned as he stared at the lines he cut.

"No wonder Snape tormented you," Draco said mischievously. "You tortured him first."

Harry made a face and lifted a huge piece of the cake on a plate. He took a fork and strode forward. "Draco, you hardly ate anything for dinner, so eat this."

"No, I'm not."

"Are you on a diet?" Ginny asked.

"Shut up," Draco muttered and scowled at Harry.

He smiled affectionately. "We'll share this one."

"I think I'm going to throw up," Harry heard Ginny remark to Tonks and Hermione.

~*~

Harry was finishing his second helping of cake when Hedwig, Shadow, and Bluestone's owl appeared. He looked at them curiously.

"I think they're offering to take the presents back to the house," Draco said to him after a moment. With a quick wave of his wand, he produced three bags for each owl. Hermione and Ginny helped to place the presents in the bags.

"Hey, I don't see you giving Harry a present," Ginny observed.

Harry raised his eyebrow when he saw his boyfriend give him a somewhat nervous glance.

"He'll receive it later," Draco replied.

"I wonder what it is," Ginny teased.

"Is she always like this?" Draco demanded of him.

"She's been so since her fourth year, I think," Harry replied. Hedwig hooted and flapped her wings eagerly. "Thank you, Hedwig. Be careful."

A loud whistle caught their attention and the forest fell eerily silent.

"What's happening?" Ginny's voice was hushed, and she looked about her warily.

It was quite unexpected. Music filled the air without warning, and the people cheered. Soon, there were couples dancing all around the clearing. Harry grinned widely as he witnessed Starkmind kissed Bluestone fiercely before they went off to join the dancing crowd.

Harry listened thoughtfully to the music and gathered his courage at the same time. Then he stood next to Draco, and brushed his thumb gently on the back of Draco's hand. "Do you want to dance?" he asked softly.

"Please?" Draco looked hopeful. "I know it sounds absurd." Draco looked embarrassed and dropped his eyes. "I just want to –"

Harry reached up and tucked a stray lock behind his boyfriend's ear. "I would love to dance with you, Draco Malfoy."

"Bloody hell, Hermione. I'm drowning in a cauldron of one hundred percent honey," Ginny groaned. "I think the two of you just want to show your affections in front of everyone else!"

"I think they certainly are using any excuses so that they can forever touch each other," Tonks added her observation, with her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Well, I think what they really want to do is reenact what had happened during the masquerade," Hermione said and her brown eyes exuded mystery.

Harry's response to her observation was so akin to the one that Draco made that the three witches started to laugh. He cast a sidelong glance at the wizard by his side. Then his eyes flickered back to his best friend. "I hope I won't offend you, Hermione, but I think you're scarier than usual."

Someone cleared his throat and Harry looked at the warlock who stood several feet away. He frowned slightly as he tried to recall the sorcerer's name. John? No ... is it Jason? Jason ... yes, that's his name. Jason Kanic.

"May I ask you to dance with me, lady?" Kanic asked Tonks politely.

"I'll pass. I'm too clumsy to dance with anyone." Tonks smiled apologetically.

The warlock then turned to Ginny and she accepted his request. Harry heard Tonks sigh and she sounded almost wistful. She might have sensed that she was being studied, and quickly said, "I can't dance with anyone – what if I break their toes? The only person who isn't afraid of my clumsiness is Kingsley, maybe."

Bloody hell. Harry snickered.

"Don't get me wrong, Harry," Tonks said hastily. "He's my senior, and he happens to know every bit of my weaknesses." However, there was something in her eyes that told him otherwise.

"Yeah, right," Draco said sarcastically.

"What do you know, laddie?"

"I know what I'm seeing," her cousin replied calmly.

"Happy birthday, Harry."

He recognized the voice instantly and he smiled warmly. "Thank you, sir."

Vine grinned and suddenly gave Harry a suggestive look. "Aren't you going to dance with Draco, lad?"

Harry blushed slightly and coughed in embarrassment. "I'm going to, but..." His eyes flitted over to watch Hermione.

"Don't let my presence be a hindrance to you, Harry," Hermione said, exasperated. "I'm here to see you happy."

"Ah." Vine's face brightened. "I was just about to ask your friend with the winsome smile to dance with me. With your permission?" Hermione curtsied slightly and allowed Vine to lead her to the 'dance floor'.

"Tonks," Harry began, "will you be all right?"

"Of course. Now, go on ahead. I'll snoop around, and surprise Ginny. Go on!"

Harry looked at Draco and his partner nodded. They went to a deserted spot and to his surprise, Draco took the lead. Harry gazed into the sparkling grey eyes and he grinned, influenced by the Slytherin's happiness.

"We are indeed insanely bubbly today," Draco murmured seductively in his ear.

He became slightly breathless when they pressed their bodies against each other. An electrified feeling filled him and he grew excited suddenly. It turned into anticipation when Draco gave him a predatory look.

"Love, don't stare at me like that," Harry whispered nervously.

"Why not?" Draco leaned forward and licked his ear.

This is why not. Harry tightened his arms around Draco reflexively as his knees trembled with weakness. "Why do I have this strange feeling that something is going to happen tonight?"

"Perhaps because something will happen tonight?" Draco answered sweetly.

"Draco." Harry pulled away slightly. He maintained a bland expression and casually pinched Draco's bottom. Then he slapped it lightly. "What are you up to?"

Draco chuckled heartily. "I'm not telling." Draco smiled roguishly and Harry sighed in resignation. They continued to dance and his boyfriend continued to chortle.

"Harry, a sulky appearance does not suit you. You have too much a brooding, handsome look," Draco remarked and before Harry could feel indignant about it, warm lips descended on him. Harry quivered with excitement as their tongues slithered and intertwined around each other. His fingers massaged Draco's neck while his lover rubbed his back enticingly.

They parted and Harry leaned onto Draco for support. "You just love to unnerve me, don't you?" Harry murmured into the warm chest.

"Yes," Draco replied in a hoarse voice. "It's quite fun."

"Draco, can we sit down somewhere?"

"Did I make you swoon?"

"Draco, I don't think I can stand up for much longer," he said seriously.

~*~

Draco congratulated himself silently. "Do you want me to carry you?" he asked politely.

"Let's not be too showy. Just help me walk." Harry looked around and then pointed his chin to the east. Draco looked in the direction that Harry had indicated, and saw Hermione Granger and Ginny Weasley. They were staring at Harry and him.

"Harry, is it just the lights or is Weasley's face really red?" Draco asked curiously.

"Now I wonder what she'll tease about," Harry muttered.

When they reached the two witches, Ginny exploded. "I can't believe that you tongued in public!"

"What's wrong with kissing him?" Draco asked as he lowered Harry onto a stump.

"Ignore her, Harry, Draco," Hermione said with a slight smile. Then her gaze became somewhat penetrating, and she stared intently at Draco. It was as though she knew of his plans.

"Harry was right then. I think you're scary too," he said absently.

"Huh?" Ginny and Harry looked at him in confusion. Hermione on the other hand, blinked her eyes innocently.

Draco sat on the ground and rested his head against Harry's thigh. He closed his eyes in contentment when he felt Harry's fingers touched his head gently, and then they started to caress him. He heard Ginny make a gagging noise and looked up just in time to see Hermione drag the younger girl away. Draco watched Hermione and Ginny curiously, but they were just helping themselves to the refreshments available. His eyes wandered around aimlessly until they focused on Tonks.

He was slightly troubled by her solemn expression, and became more suspicious when her expression changed into one of cheerfulness, obviously feigned.

"Now, where are Hermione and Ginny? It's almost ten," the Auror said once she was within hearing distance.

"Where are you going?" Harry asked.

"I have to send them home, of course," Tonks replied.

"They're not going to stay here for the night?" Harry sounded disappointed.

They had better not! I have plans for us! Draco managed not to frown.

"Mum won't let us be an inconvenience, Harry," Ginny said with a sympathetic smile, and handed drinks to Draco and Harry.

"Oh..."

"It's ten. The Portkey should be activated by now," Tonks said after a quick glance around.

Draco stared in cool detachment as the two witches embraced and kissed his boyfriend.

"Take care. I'll write to you again," Harry said to his friends. They said their farewells, and the two girls linked arms with the older ones. Draco could hear Ginny talk about her dance with the warlock, and then her voice gradually faded in the distance.

Harry fell silent then. Draco used the chance to spy for other places to sit. "Harry," he started. "Let's go there."

"What's wrong with our present seat?"

"I can't cuddle you for one thing and it's in the shadows," he said cheerfully.

"Draco, don't get any ideas," Harry murmured.

"We'll see." He stood and helped Harry up. "On second thought, do you want to dance again?"

"No." Harry gave him a cheeky smile. "I think I prefer cuddling under a tree."

He just could not help but smile roguishly at Harry's words. Draco laced his fingers together with Harry's and they moved to the more comfortable location. Draco sat down first and he parted his legs so that Harry could sit in between them. He leaned back, so did Harry, and Draco wrapped his arms around his lover.

He laid his cheek against Harry's thick hair and he kissed the top of the Gryffindor's ear. He grinned knowingly when Harry trembled slightly. He kissed it again, slid his lips downwards, and brushed them lightly on Harry's neck. His boyfriend shivered with delight, stronger this time.

"Harry..." Draco murmured and tilted Harry's body slightly. His lover yielded gracefully and Draco lavished more kisses on the supple neck and throat. "Love you so much...."

Harry let out a contented purr and Draco's lips moved upwards and their lips met. Draco moaned softly, but restrained his desire to push Harry down onto the soft ground.

~*~

He knew he should not stare at the couple under the tree, but what they were doing was quite alluring. Elron Vine shook his head slightly and grinned.

"I think they should learn how to control themselves," someone said softly.

"They're young and I think they know that they can't behave such when they're in the presence of their students, Aran," Vine replied lightly.

"Even so, it is unhealthy for them to get addicted to sex," Reed said seriously.

Vine chuckled softly. "They'll grow out of it, I'm sure." He gazed across the clear space. "However, it is surprising that they are ... fired up before Elaviel and Bluestone's dance."

"Teenagers," Reed muttered.

Something in the older sorcerer's voice made him turn, and he watched Reed's face with open amusement. Reed, aware that he was spied on, dropped his crystal-blue eyes. Vine suppressed a snicker when Reed gave him a challenging look.

"Did you not dance at all, Aran?" His voice trembled with mirth when he asked the grey-haired wizard. Reed scowled in response.

"I thought the reason why I'm present was to look out for strange things."

"There is that, I suppose, but..." He sighed and absently tucked his hair behind his ear. It was then that he realized that his hair was flowing freely behind him. "Not again. Why do the children insist on stealing my ribbons, then hang them up on the blackboard?" he mumbled to himself. "Anyway, did the young Auror asked you anything, Aran?"

He saw Reed's expression became troubled. "She asked me whether there is anyone in the Vale whose looks are similar to Potter's."

"Well ... did you see, or know, anyone who looks like that?" he asked thoughtfully.

"No, I have not seen anyone here who resembles Potter. I know of one, who looked like Mister Potter."

"Are you trying to be humorous, Aran? Obviously the answer to the second question is James Potter."

Reed only snorted, and Vine turned pensive again. He sighed. "I don't know why but I feel that Harry's troubles are not over."

"Yes. That is true, Elron."

Vine's feet started to ache and he looked around for a place to sit. He picked out a grassy spot and seated himself on the patch indolently. He did not expect Reed to join him.

Someone whistled loudly for the second time that night and Vine took his eyes off his colleague to look at the crowd. He smiled and eased back. "Just what I need to get my mind off troubles."

People stopped dancing and moved off to the sidelines. One pair however, moved into the center of the clearing. Vine watched as Bluestone and Starkmind faced each other. A group of musicians arranged themselves in one corner and readied their instruments.

"Are you in the mood to bet, Aran?" he asked absently.

"What are we betting on?"

"Whether those two can hang around until Veniera is concluded," he said.

Reed snorted derisively. "What is the use on wagering on that, Elron. They will not be able to handle it."

"Who knows? They may be strong enough and stay until the end."

"They will run," Reed answered seriously. "And the winner?"

"The usual, Aran." Vine hid a smile and turned his attention to the couple in the clearing.

Someone began to beat the drums and a rhythm was established. Vine felt his heartbeat quickened with the drumming, and he smiled. Anticipation grew and he waited for either Bluestone or Starkmind to move.

"Why don't Bluestone take the lead once in a while?" Reed asked thoughtfully.

Vine peered at the figure clothed in dark blue and laughed. "Maybe he enjoys the challenge." Dark-haired Bluestone held his head high, and his eyes sparkled with mischief. Then Vine saw him lift his eyebrow slightly. Starkmind took a step closer to his husband, and Bluestone responded by inclining his head. "Damn. You're right. Maybe he should insist on the dominant role for a change," he commented as the roles were established between the husbands. He spoke no further as the dance began.

He seemed to forget that there were others around him, but he was too caught up with the intricate moves made by the dancers. He did not fail to notice that their hands made a lot of sliding movements on their thighs, and Vine found himself agreeing with Reed's thinking. The first time the senior Potions Master witnessed Veniera, he had strongly thought that children should not watch it, and the dance should be kept private.

"Bloody hell," Vine uttered softly, after Bluestone made a movement that was so sensual that he was amazed that Starkmind did not haul his husband to the nearest bushes immediately.

"And as you said to me a few years ago, it is their tradition."

And you really are not helping me by talking in that low voice, Vine thought to himself. He tried to control his breathing but then he saw Starkmind trail his hand along Bluestone's neck. It was quite a suggestive gesture and Vine squirmed uneasily.

"I see that you have just noticed that the moves that they made have their meanings."

"Aran, where are you eyes looking?" he asked in a strained voice.

When the dance and music finally ended, the clearing was filled with sounds of catcalls, whistles, embarrassed coughs, and even sighs of relief. Vine studied the panting couple and he applauded, because of their excellent self-control. Starkmind and Bluestone could have Apparated away to deal with the aftermath of their dance, but they did not.

"I told you they can't handle it," Reed's voice broke through his daze.

"What?" Vine turned his head but Harry and Draco were no longer seated underneath the tree. "What a shame. Well ... I guess we had better go somewhere so I can give you your reward then."

"After you."

~*~

Draco felt like cursing Bluestone and Starkmind but at the same time, he felt he ought to kiss their feet. Additionally, it felt like an eternity for him to reach their bedroom. Harry and Draco hastily took off their boots and climbed on the bed. They kissed hungrily and Draco stopped himself from ripping the clothes of Harry's body. He charmed them away instead. He was so hot and hungry, and Harry was making him lose every bit of self-control he still had with each wandering and teasing caresses.

"Please, Draco," his lover whispered softly. Draco kissed Harry's brow tenderly, and slowly, he penetrated his lover.

He groaned, so overwhelmed with lust and pleasure.

"Don't stop, Draco ... don't stop..."

"Harry ... love you..." Draco moved into his lover repeatedly, until it became impossible for them to hold off their orgasms. Their cries of pleasure were lost in the other's mouth, as Draco climaxed inside Harry for the first time. "Happy birthday, Harry," he murmured against the warm and slightly swollen lips.

"This is the best present I ever had. Draco, please. Don't stop."

"I don't think I want to, Harry," he agreed, and they began, all over again.

~*~

He tried to calm his erratic breathing, but he was quite aroused after watching the sexy dance. The arms wrapped tightly around him heightened his desire further, and the warm kisses on the back of his neck made his legs tremble. He told himself that he needed to be patient, since his partner required a bit of time to get into the same fevered state as he was in. He gasped in surprise when hands glided down to his hips and danced so near to his groin. The move was similar to the one Bluestone had made on Starkmind.

"So you were watching the dance after all," he remarked to his lover and tilted his head.

"I'm ready."

"Good." He turned around and slipped his fingers into the long, ash-grey hair. "Love me now."

"I've always loved you, you idiot. Unless you are talking about sexual intercourse."

He rolled his eyes and pushed his partner on the bed. Their clothes vanished as they kissed, and they embraced each other tightly. His partner rolled them over and he stared into the blue eyes that were filled with love and lust.

"I'm going to take my time loving you," his partner said softly, and the low, husky voice made him tremble with anticipation. He tugged at his partner's shoulders and they kissed again. They did not break away, even when they were finally one.

~*~