Fortalius

Chapter 7 - Epilogue

Draco sat on Harry's bed in St. Mungo's recovery ward.

"How's your mum doing?"

"They said there's quite a bit of internal and external damage, but in time, she'll be fine."

"Good. And how are you? Shouldn't you be lying down?"

"I'm fine, Harry. That spell you did helped a lot. Even the doctors were impressed. How's your burn?"

"Better. Just a few more treatments and it'll be gone. Mostly just cuts and bruises, the rest."

"Good." Draco smiled and leaned down to kiss Harry.

"Gah!!! For Merlin's sake! Every time I walk in..."

"Ron! Hermione! You came!"

"Of course we came, silly," said Hermione. "Dumbledore told us what happened and we demanded he bring us with him."

At that moment, a bearded head appeared in the doorway, followed shortly by the rest of the headmaster.

"Hello, boys. How are you two feeling?

"Much better, Professor," answered Harry.

"And you, Mr. Malfoy?"

"Much better as well, sir."

"Well that's good to hear."

"But sir," said Harry, "how did you find out what happened?"

"Dobby told me. Which reminds me, your broom is waiting for you back at school, safe and sound."

"He flew?!"

"Heavens, no! Terrified of heights. He used floo powder. And made quite a mess in my office in doing so."

Ron and Hermione made their way to Harry's bedside. Ron and Draco exchanged a nod, and an almost-smile. Harry looked between the two of them and laughed.

"Well, we're glad you're alright Harry," said Ron, "Herm and I were worried sick about you! You took off so fast!"

"Sorry," Harry said, smiling widely at his two friends. "Well, I'm glad you guys came. Thank you."

"We brought you something too," said Ron. He pulled a chocolate frog from his coat pocket. "And I didn't even eat any on the trip here."

Harry laughed. "Thanks."

"Well," Hermione said, giving Harry's hand a light squeeze, "I suppose we should leave you two to rest and recuperate."

"I think that's a good idea, Miss Granger. We'll come back later, boys. Get some rest."

"Yes, sir," Harry said.

The three visitors left and Harry looked back at Draco and sighed.

They sat in contented silence for a while, Draco running his hands lightly through Harry's hair, Harry running his fingertips up and down Draco's arm.

"I love you," Harry said softly.

"I love you too, Harry. And I always will."

He leaned down and pressed his lips to Harry's. And he knew that as long as he could do that, he would be happy.

-- And Just for this moment,

As long as you're mine,

I'll wake up my body,

And make up for lost time.

Borrow the moonlight,

Until it is through.

And know I'll be here, holding you,

As long as you're mine

Lyrics from "Wicked" by Stephen Schwartz -

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