Harry Potter decided to make a stop at the Burrow that evening to see Ginny and Ron and relay to them the information that had been discovered that day. Since Hermione was at Hogwarts tending both to the potions and the library stop, Harry traveled alone.

The chime on the door to the Burrow barely gave him enough time to peer inside when he was immediately enveloped in a rib-crushing hug by Molly Weasley. He barely had enough time to register who it was, but he'd recognise that hug anywhere, blindfolded.

"Oh, my dear Harry!"

"Hi, Molly – " Harry had to initiate the pull away from the embrace because her smothering was bordering on suffocation. He couldn't help but grin at her enthusiasm, however.

"You're just in time for dinner – Why don't you join us?" Molly smiled.

Harry shrugged, "Uh, sure. Yeah, that'll be great. Thanks – "…Just get it over with, Harry.

"What about Hermione? Would she be joining us?" Molly asked.

"Oh. Well, she's attending to something at the moment and I didn't initially intend to stay for dinner… " Harry responded, rather feebly, "I'll send her a message to see if she's free."

"Oh, wonderful! The others are upstairs if you'd like to join them. I'll call you lot when it's ready, " Molly clasped her hands to her chest looking far too pleased by his unexpected arrival.

Once Molly turned back towards the oven – which emanated such a mouth-watering scent – Harry withdrew his wand and cast his Patronus, sending Hermione a message. He watched as his silvery-white stag bounded through the air around the kitchen and made a final leap through the wall and disappeared from sight. He was getting better at this method of message-sending, and each time he did so, was far quicker. He only wondered why no one else bothered to teach him before. Hermione was likely still rummaging through the library, so perhaps she would decide to take a break, dump the books back at Grimmauld Place, and make her way toward the Burrow. Harry had no intention of staying, but he didn't want to be rude to Molly and reject her offer.

Once he was ready, Harry made his way through the rickety wooden kitchen and began to ascend the familiar, lopsided staircase. Old and worn, just like at Grimmauld Place. And yet still felt like a second home to him. Besides Hogwarts, it was the second place he'd truly ever called home. There was always such welcoming hospitality to the Burrow, and to Harry, he always knew he'd feel safe here. He knew that no matter what, this was a place he could always retreat to get away from things for a while. And every time, he'd always be made to feel welcome.

Once he made the trek into Ron's room, he found George, Angelina, and Ginny seated together playing what looked like Exploding Snap. Ginny immediately stood up as soon as he made his appearance, her freckled face lighting up with welcoming warmth, and enveloped Harry in a comforting embrace. Far less bone-crushing than the one Molly gave him moments ago. He wrapped his arms around her torso and held her there tightly for a few moments before they let go, gaze lingering for those few extra seconds.

"Aww, you big softie, Harry, " George teased with a small grin. A grin! Harry hadn't seen him smile like that since, well…before Fred. It almost caught Harry off guard.

Harry's cheeks flushed a slight tinge of red, as he settled on the floor beside Ron.

Ron snorted, "Don't mind this one here. Angelina has turned George into a cuddly teddy bear."

Angelina gave an amused gasp and lightly slapped Ron's shoulder beside her, "Hey!" She turned to wink at George, "At least he's my cuddly teddy bear." The pair of them leaned in close, nuzzling noses like a love-sick pair of canines.

Ron grimaced disgustingly, "Get a room, you two. Up the stairs and down the hall to the right."

Ginny chuckled, "Oh Ronald, you are such a buzzkill. Leave them alone."

"Yeah, dear brother," George responded, "Lighten up."

Ginny rolled her eyes and slowly entwined Harry's hand in hers, "Mum told us McGonagall might be sending letters soon. What do you think?"

Harry paused for a moment. It was a question he'd been asking himself for weeks, but he was still in two minds about it. On one, he would like to return for his seventh year – and a danger-free one at that – regardless of the career path he chose to take. But on the other, he was scared to return. What if something bad happens again? Is it really worth returning? What's another year less? He knew danger usually followed him and the thought of being back reminded him too much of the terrors that had followed him through the last seven years of his life. Did he really have the emotional energy and perseverance for that again?

He really didn't know what he wanted.

Harry drew in a deep breath, "I'm…still thinking about it. At first, I hated the idea. But…It would be kinda great to finish. You know, without worrying about who is going to kill me by the end of the year. Would be nice to actually have a normal year."

"Blimey Harry. Didn't actually think you ever consider that " Ron cracked an awkward smile, not knowing whether to take him seriously or not.

Harry shrugged, nonchalantly, "Just telling you what I think."

"Would be kinda cool if we all went back, " Ginny said, "I mean, I'd rather not have a repeat of the Dark Year and no longer be forced to perform Unforgivable's on First Years. And hey, we'll actually be in the same year!"

"You're both balmy," Ron shook his head, "I hate the thought of going back. No bloody thanks."

"Really?" Harry questioned, "I mean, I thought maybe you would have changed your mind. It won't be a school year without you, Ron."

Ron scrunched up his face, "Nah. I just can't bring myself to do it. Not since…everything. Besides, I'm kind of thinking of applying to the Auror program instead. "

Harry blinked several times, trying to comprehend what Ron had suggested, "I – wow, I didn't know you were interested in becoming an Auror. But you need your NEWT scores and final grades as prerequisites?"

"Prerequisites? I don't know about you, but I think our impressive new resumes can get us anywhere, " Ron laughed, "But seriously, though. I spoke to Kingsley about it. Well, actually, he approached me. He's doing a bit of an Auror-training overhaul. Since losing so many, he's willing to make an exception in the program to get the numbers up. No one has been taken on by the office for six years. It's mad! We're going to be learning advanced stuff, anyway. I won't bother wasting a year at Hogwarts, then."

"That's wonderful, Ron. You'd make a great Auror, " Harry smiled. Although he did feel slightly stung that Kingsley didn't approach him about it given everything that has happened – and still is – he really didn't fancy chasing down dark wizards for the rest of his life. He'd had enough of that already. Although being an Auror was something he originally wished to pursue, he wasn't sure if he had it in his heart to continue on that path now. As crazy as his life had been up until that point, settling with something a little less stressful and less dangerous seemed far more welcoming and appealing to him.

Perhaps he'd end up taking that teaching position after all. Hogwarts would always be his first home and that's where his heart seemed to always gravitate towards.

"Blimey, don't make his head grow any bigger, " Ginny smirked, then turned to Harry, "Is Hermione joining us tonight?"

Harry met her gaze, "I sent her a message, yeah."

Ron's face lit up.

"Hey hey, it's a triple date!" George teased, earning a giggle from Angelina beside him.

Speaking of dates, we haven't even gone on ours yet...I'm bloody horrible. Why does Ginny even like me, again?

Ginny rolled her eyes, "Triple date," She turned amusingly to Harry, "Aren't we lucky."

Yes, yes, I know, we haven't gone on it yet. Harry mentally kicked himself. He was sure that was her way of subtly kicking him up the backside.

" – DINNER'S READY! Hurry along, now!" Suddenly Molly's voice boomed from the lower floor.

Ginny snorted, "Mum's never been that excited in a long while."

The four picked themselves up and made their way downstairs, hearing Hermione's voice of arrival below. Ron sped up and greeted Hermione with a hug and a quick peck on the cheek. Harry watched Molly grin to herself who turned to occupy with setting the dinner plates with her wand, pretending not to have seen. Ron's cheeks flushed slightly red and Hermione wriggled her nose in slight embarrassment once they realised everyone was looking. Harry smirked, feeling rather awkward himself as he, too, respectfully averted his gaze. He wasn't exactly fond of having his own relationship on display, either. Well, not yet. Everything was still rather new.

He looked at the dinner table to find a scrumptious display of roast beef, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, a pot of gravy, and assorted sausages.

Arthur, with Percy beside him, was already seated at the table and greeted Harry and Hermione with a nod and a smile as they both took a seat, "Harry. Hermione. Nice to see you both."

"Evening, Arthur. Percy, " Harry responded, pouring himself a glass of icy water from the pitcher. He poured Ginny's glass, who was seated on his other side.

"Isn't this wonderful, Arthur?" Molly beamed, taking a seat beside her husband as she peered at their unexpected guests. Harry noticed Ron rolling his eyes and Ginny trying her best to stifle a laugh. Neither Molly nor Arthur noticed.

"Indeed, it is. It's a shame Bill and Fleur couldn't join us tonight," Arthur responded, filling up his plate, "I must say, it is good to see you lot together. Hope you have been keeping out of trouble?"

"…As best we can, " Harry lied. Well, it wasn't wrong. Not wanting the conversation to start that way already, he tried his best to politely divert, "So…how's things at the Ministry? Any word on Neville and Augusta?"

Arthur shook his head, giving him time to swallow his spoonful of gravy-soaked mash, "Nothing yet. Kingsley informed me that the Aurors did their sweep of the Longbottom's residence, but no wands were found at the scene, so the Death Eaters must have them in their possession."

"He also mentioned they found an empty vial of what remained of Polyjuice Potion in the front garden. Likely posed as someone familiar as if to catch them off guard, " Percy interrupted, taking a drink from his goblet. Harry and Hermione exchanged grim glances.

"No one is safe, " Hermione looked worriedly around the table.

Arthur turned to Hermione, with a look of concern, "Would you like me to contact Kingsley to send an Auror on standby at your parents' home?"

Hermione quickly shook her head, "No, I'd prefer not. Thank you, but I think Aurors right now are not easy to trust. They've fooled us already. Besides, I have added extra charms for security. Any magical signature to cross or break through, I will know immediately."

Arthur nodded, "Understandable. Well, it seems you have it covered then. If you need one of us, we're just a Patronus away, alright? I don't want to see you racing there alone."

The occupants continued with dinner for the next hour and a half, delving into some interesting conversations. Harry did want to continue avoiding the conversation in direction of the happenings at Grimmauld Place and the information they had brewing in regard to the whereabouts of their friends and the others missing. Instead, they spoke of the reformation of the Ministry under Kingsley's new direction and the now-complete eradication of the Dementors at Azkaban. Most of the Dementors they could find were being relocated and contained elsewhere since they were released from hold at the Tintern Quarry from where they were supposed to be securely held. They had also mentioned the re-opening of Hogwarts with the Minister's approval, as some course content will be revised and reformed in order to reverse what had been taught in the previous year under Severus' unfortunate and forced reign as Headmaster.

They spoke of the recent mass overhaul of corrupt Ministry workers and officials, including the spies that were previously planted there under Voldemort's hold. They were able to capture a further four escaped Death Eaters and supporters planted in different departments, which had Ron swearing under his breath at the sheer bewilderment of it. Percy had talked about the close monitoring of the Floo Network - now thankfully back under full Ministry control - and the monitored creation of Portkeys in order to further bind and eradicate those enemies who have attempted to flee in recent weeks. Only certain Floo fireplaces were active, such as a select few stationed at Hogwarts and St. Mungos. This information was handy to know because at least he knew that their remaining enemies were unable to flee so far, leaving them to either travel by broomstick, or apparate – that which will drain them of energy and fortitude due to overuse.

The information was promising and he knew they really couldn't be far. Especially if they've been so meticulous transporting the captives. So, they had to be close by.

All in all, it was good news worth noting. But according to Kingsley, not many Death Eaters were given lenient sentences. In fact, many did not have the luxury of a trial and were sent directly to Azkaban. The Ministry has no tolerance for criminals and thus the Death Eater trials to them were quite a success. Harry couldn't help but feel nervous about it. Severus was still on the wanted list, and he felt uneasy about harboring him within Grimmauld Place hoping that he too, would not get into trouble, but they'd be damned if they even consider taking him away. Not after everything. Not after what he gave up saving them all.

Percy had begun to explain the ramifications of the Aurors who were subjected to the Imperius Curse during the War. According to him, some of the Aurors who were victims of the curse were displaying lapses in memory and gaps in time that they could not fill. No spell could reverse it, and thus, some of their previous skills and acquired knowledge remained lost within their mind now damaged beyond repair. Some of those Aurors had to step down from their role as their mental capacity was compromising their work.

I'd be doomed, then. No Auror program would want me as a candidate if I'm still having bloody panic-inducing nightmares.

Thankfully, the conversation turned a little less politically grim, with George not wanting to abandon Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, and hoping to restart their little joke shop soon in honor of Fred. Although the loss still hit hard, it was good to see George with a little more spark these days, and was glad he had Angelina by his side being ever so patient with his grief. Arthur had told them that they were starting to rebuild Diagon Alley, and some of the businesses were keen to be up and running again. With the Headmistress and Minister working together to get Hogwarts in a ready state, people were more than ready to restart their lives again. Businesses were losing money, and some had shut down permanently, but the War was not enough to stop some traders in the lead-up to a new school year.

They had finished dinner and Molly cleared the table and set up a dessert spread – Harry was so full at this point, but he wouldn't say no to treacle tart. Arthur, after a long day at the Ministry, decided to bring out the firewhiskey and several glasses. Harry wasn't really in the mood to celebrate by any caliber, but he felt rude to refuse their hospitality. In all honesty, he just wanted to be home. Or at least spend some quality time with Ginny. He hated the obligation of staying to socialise when he really didn't feel up to it. But he bit down on his reluctance and stayed, mainly not to offend the Weasleys.

All of a sudden, Arthur raised his glass, and everyone followed suit. He cleared his throat, "I know this isn't really a time for celebration just yet, but…To the downfall of our greatest enemy. May this world be rebuilt stronger and more defiant with each adversity."

There were solemn collective nods and no words spoken, but all together they raised their glass in salute and brought them to their lips. Harry felt the warmth of the firewhiskey almost immediately, which did seem to alleviate some of his nerves. They sat around together, delving into dessert and conversation for another good solid hour until Arthur and Molly decided to retreat for the night. Before Molly left, she retrieved a large container and placed an assortment of sweet and savory food for Harry to deliver back to Severus, which he found to be a rather sweet gesture from the Weasley matriarch. But on that note, he felt terrible because she didn't know about his illness. She'd be absolutely devastated. He hated keeping secrets from people, especially those who deserved to know.

Once Molly retreated, Percy followed suit, leaving the six remaining occupants behind. They eventually relocated to the sitting room to relax for the remainder of the evening, which was bordering on close to midnight.

"So, uh, when's the next DA meeting?" Angelina asked as she snuggled against George's chest.

Harry looked uncertain, "I was going to set up another meeting soon, but just waiting on more information first. Just keep the coin with you at all times."

Angelina nodded, "Not a problem, Harry. I was getting worried because it had been quiet for a while, since our last one."

"Just keep a lookout for anything that may help find the others, " Hermione exchanged glances with Harry, "That way once we do have a meeting set, we can further discuss the next plan. I'm doing some research accordingly."

"Well, let me know if you need an extra pair of hands or anything. George and I will be keen, " Angelina and George nodded collectively.

"That'll be great, really. The more eyes we have out there, the better our chances. Just…be careful, alright? " Harry added, "We can't lose any more people. They are getting quite ruthless, now."

"Bugger, I planned on heading back into Hogsmeade with a marching band, " George smirked, "And here I thought you presumed we were well-behaved."

"Well-behaved? What idiot would tell you that?" Ron gave a disapproving snort, "Who abides by the rules anymore? It's free-for-all now."

"He will need to learn to abide by them if he plans on becoming an Auror, " Hermione grinned rather cheekily, "…Right, Ronald?"

"You do need a bit of discipline, " Ginny said, earning a scowl from Ron, "The Auror program will sort you out, good and proper."

"Gee, thanks, " Ron huffed.

Angelina and George chuckled. The six of them continued with slightly tipsy-induced banter until a little past midnight when George and Angelina finally retreated for the night. Harry politely excused himself and wandered out to the front yard for some fresh air. The smell of firewhiskey began to become disgustingly stale. He was definitely a lightweight and two glasses were more than enough for him to handle. Ginny followed shortly behind him, clasping his hand to remind him that she was there. They stood outside side by side, looking up at the clear, starry sky above.

"Hey, Ginny? "Harry asked.

"Yeah?"

"Would you, ah…" He paused, trying to gather up the right words without making him sound foolish, "I know I've not been great company recently, but I haven't forgotten about our date yet…I feel a bit, well…stupid."

Ginny blinked in surprise, "Stupid? Harry, don't stress about it. It hasn't exactly been the easiest time to squeeze in a date these days. Or proper time together."

Harry could feel his cheeks flush, "Yeah, I suppose, but…"

Ginny flicked a lock of wild red hair from her face and wriggled her nose, "- It'll happen. Just being with you at any moment is enough. " She smiled warmly.

Harry was flooded by a wave of relief. He didn't know why he was so worried about it. He knew she wouldn't be bothered about it, but he still felt slightly awkward on that front. They never really took this step before, and after everything that has happened in the last year, he was afraid to ask for fear of her change in desire. But knowing she was understanding and still happy within his company, made him happy too.

Harry released a breath he didn't realise he held, "That is…Well, brilliant."

"What did you'd think I'd say?" Ginny questioned, squeezing his hand a little tighter, as she leaned her head against his shoulder.

"Well…" That had to be it though, right? He was worried about what she might think. This wasn't exactly his area of expertise, "…I just didn't…"

Dammit Harry, just spit it out. Grow a spine.

"What, you'd think I would have changed my mind?" Ginny chuckled lightly, "I never gave up on us and still don't. Things are tough now, I get it. You're under a lot of stress. Especially with Severus, you've sort of become his…unofficial carer."

"You've got a point," Harry grimaced at the term, "Just…don't let him hear you say that. He'll hex me until next year."

Ginny shrugged, "Well, it's true, isn't it?"

"Yeah, I guess it is, " Harry drew in a deep breath, "I guess I'm still a bit…hesitant."

"What…about us?"

Harry shook his head, "Well, not quite. More like…worried something bad is going to happen. Like it's a nagging feeling I can't get rid of."

Ginny gave a light chuckle, "It always is, though. We can't always help that. We'll deal with it as it happens, like always. Besides, if we don't get this damn first date over and done with, we're just going to stay cuddle-buddies for the rest of our lives."

Now it was Harry's turn to chuckle, "Yeah, yeah, I get it."

Ginny looked up into Harry's green eyes, "So, what did you have in mind?"

Harry's mind trailed off, not sure if the firewhiskey was making his head feel heavy. "Oh, oh, the date?"

"What else did you think I meant?"

Harry flinched, feeling a tinge of embarrassment, "Oh. Well, I figured we'll just grab our brooms and maybe use the Quidditch grounds and just…Fly around…Forget everything for a little while."

Ginny smiled, and leaned in to give him a kiss on the cheek, "I'd love that. And I don't want George knowing, or else he'll ruin it with his cheesy love-heart fireworks which explode in pink clouds. Nasty, they are. They stink like candy floss."

Harry laughed and was about to respond when they heard a sudden argument within the Burrow behind them. Both Harry and Ginny turned around to find Hermione storming out of the front door, with Ron following angrily behind her. They both looked furious.

"- So, when were you going to bloody tell me?" Ron demanded; his words slurring slightly.

Hermione turned sharply on her heel to face him, "Well, tonight! But then you decided to get drunk, so I held off!"

"You can't just casually tell me about your day, then throw in an 'oh, by the way, we hung out with Malfoy today'. You're mad!"

Oh, boy.

"No! You're not even listening to me, Ron!" Hermione couldn't believe what he was saying, "We didn't hang out!"

"Oh yeah, sure. I'm listening! When you mention that slimy git, of course, I'm listening!" Ron was furious.

"Well if you'd lay off the fourth glass of firewhiskey as I told you, you'd stop scolding me about it!"

Harry exchanged worried glances with Ginny, and took a few steps toward the angry pair, "Ron, relax. Nothing bad happened. It was a last-minute decision."

"Relax? RELAX?!" Ron took a few long strides towards Harry, and suddenly grabbed his shirt by the fistful, "And you let Hermione – my girlfriend! – go near that tosser!?"

Harry tried to pry Ron's fist from his shirt, but he would not budge. Ron was far more built and taller than he and fighting him physically would be useless. The alcohol on his breath was strong, "Hey, let go of me! Bloody hell, Ron! We were going to tell you, but I didn't exactly want to share it casually over dinner. It's bad enough trying to get your dad to lay off criticizing Severus and I really don't need any more lectures about Malfoy, either! We have enough problems as it is."

Ron's face was contorted in fury. Harry hadn't seen him this mad during the incident in the forest when he wore the locket Horcrux.

"For goodness sake, Ron! Let go of him!" Ginny yelled at him. Eventually, Ron let Harry go roughly, causing Harry to rub the new soreness within his chest.

"I told him what happened today and what we found out…" Hermione shot Ron a look of disgust, "Once I mentioned Malfoy, he went nuts. But nothing bad happened, Ron. Honestly. He was…Unexpectedly helpful."

Ron breathed heavily, "You do realise he could turn and kill you in an instant? You know he can't be trusted! Hell, that foul git tried to poison me!"

"That was meant for Dumbledore, not you, " Hermione tried to explain, doing her best to manage her own anger.

"And that's any better?!"

"Look, you know we need his help. What he did today…neither of us could have done. He shook Blaise Zabini good and proper. He gave us decent information - we saw it. Honestly, Ron, it's alright."

Ron shot Harry a dangerous glare and took a heaved sigh as he turned to Hermione, "Whatever. Though next time you go on another little excursion, let me know, so I can be there to beat Malfoy senseless if he ever dares lay a hand on you!"

Hermione opened her mouth to speak but chose to say nothing. Instead, she averted her gaze to the ground. Silence befell the four of them, and all that could be heard were the chirping of crickets buried within the garden.

Harry placed his palms up defensively, trying to manage the panic within his own breathing from the tension in the air, "Everyone needs to relax, alright? Hermione, did you find anything at the library?"

She shook her head, "I gathered all the books I can find but wasn't able to look through them properly before I received your Patronus. I dropped them off at Grimmauld Place, and Snape decided to get a head start sifting through them. "

Harry nodded, "Okay. Good. We're close to finding something, I'm sure of it."

"Remember, once we find the others, we won't have to deal with Malfoy again, " Ginny added, "He's a scoundrel and I don't fully trust him either, but I admit we need someone who knows how they operate. Snape is getting worse and I highly doubt he'd be in any shape to help us again out there."

"Ginny's right. As much as we all don't approve, we need his help. Narcissa is captive, too. With her life at risk, Malfoy would be willing to work together this time."

Ron suddenly looked miserable, who seemed to have settled himself down upon listening to the others. He looked hopelessly at his girlfriend, "I'm sorry for yelling at you, Hermione. I just…Don't want anything to happen to you if I'm not there…"

Hermione was still livid, however. She stared at Ron for a few moments, frowning venomously, "I'm going home. We'll talk again once you've decided to sober up. " She didn't say another word, and turned away from the three of them, walking beyond the wards, and disapparated with a POP. Ron swore under his breath and turned in the other direction, storming back into the Burrow without another word.

"Great. Just another thing to deal with, right?" Harry turned hopelessly to Ginny

"They'll get over it, I'm sure. I'll talk to Ron, " Ginny answered, "It was bloody rude of him to yell at her like that."

Harry nodded, "I need to go, too. Sorry, I can't stay."

"No, it's fine. I'm really glad you came to visit tonight. That'll keep Mum satisfied for a while, " Ginny winked, "Let me know when you're ready for our date."

Harry gave a light chuckle, "Yeah. If I don't tell you soon enough, I'll give you permission to whack me over the head with your broomstick. Honestly, I think I might need it."

Ginny placed a hand on either side of Harry's face, and kissed him on the lips, "Not a chance."

Feeling a new wave of love and warmth wash over him, Harry bid her farewell once he collected Molly's bundle of sweets from the kitchen table. Then he made his way beyond the Burrow's magical barrier and disapparated to Grimmauld Place.

Well, the night started off well. And now after Ron and Hermione's argument – which Harry felt could place some of that blame on him – it had him feeling slightly on edge. Everyone was still reeling from the War, and they were still having to make terrible decisions to set things right. It felt like they were still fighting. It was never-ending.

Entering the black front door to headquarters, the silence was immediate and deafening. He made the familiar ascent up the staircase, making slow steps with each agonising creek of wood as he went. As he reached the first floor, he saw Draco leaning against the doorframe to the sitting room with his arms crossed staring inside. Slightly alarmed, Harry walked slowly up towards him, as Draco turned towards him, remaining silent. Harry himself peered into the room to see Severus curled up on the larger sofa, with his black traveling cloak wrapped around him like a cocoon, in a deep sleep. A raspy snore could be heard, but it sounded rather sickly and disturbing. Severus shivered a few times but remained asleep.

Harry observed the sleeping Slytherin as he walked inside slowly, and placed Molly's food container gently down on the table. He carefully left the room to join Draco beyond the door, without further disturbance.

The younger Slytherin lowered his voice to a whisper, still keeping his eyes fixed upon Severus' sleeping form, "He's been drifting in and out of sleep all afternoon. I practically had to drag him to the other sofa so he could lie down because I didn't want to risk apparating him upstairs. Cursed at me like a bloody sailor, he did."

Harry looked to find various textbooks piled on the table, some opened. Harry wondered if he could barely summon enough energy for the task. He looked at Draco, whose eyebrows crinkled in worry. In fact, he looked devastated. Harry sighed, as he also lowered his voice, "…I take it he finally told you?"

Draco scrunched up his face, slightly bitter, but his gaze still upon his Godfather, "Yeah, he did. All this time and I had no idea. How did you know before me?"

"I found him sick in hiding. When we realised that no antivenom was going to work, we just…knew. He's been safe here since, and we've been trying to manage his symptoms as best we can."

"And I made it bloody worse for him when I went to heal him. I brought him back. Didn't think it was going to torture him all this time," Draco then turned to look at Harry, hopelessly. It was then Harry noticed the redness in the younger Slytherin's grey-blue eyes.

Had he been…crying?

Harry clenched his jaw averting his gaze, trying to allow him a slight bit of dignity, "…You didn't know. "

"And yet you bloody did. He didn't trust me enough."

Harry sighed, frustratingly, "No, he didn't want to worry you. Only a few of us know, and he wants to keep it that way."

Draco gave a light, disapproving snort, "So now what?"

Harry glanced back over the sleeping, ill man curled up in the sitting room, and mimicked Draco in leaning against the other doorframe, "Keep an eye on him. Not much else we can do right now."

The younger Slytherin paused for a few moments, looking sullen until he wrinkled his nose and looked back at Harry, "You reek of firewhiskey, Potter."

Harry frowned, "Unexpected night."

Draco curled his lip in distaste, and averted his gaze back to his Godfather, "On the night my mother and I were attacked, I was drinking firewhiskey. And I don't mean a casual sip or two…Put it this way, since Hogwarts, it was an easy thing to turn to. It kept my mind off things for a while. Severus tried to convince me to stop, but I didn't want to hear that demeaning fatherly pep talk, especially from him. I was drunk when we were attacked, and I supposed I could have done better to stop them from taking my mother, " He nudged his head in Severus' direction, "…He doesn't know that. He doesn't know that I was in a drunken stupor that night and barely registered what was happening until it was too late. Since then, I haven't touched the bloody stuff."

Harry was stunned. Draco resorted to alcohol after the War. He didn't want to believe it, but for Draco to admit that to him, was a big thing. He could see the guilt all over Draco's face. He knew he messed up. Severus tried to stop him, and he didn't listen. Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"I-I didn't know."

"Of course, you bloody wouldn't, Potter. You're too busy surrounded by your Gryffindor crime-fighting squad and self-righteous goody-two-shoes complex to give a toss. As if fame wasn't enough for you, and now you continue to do the Ministry's dirty work, so you can gain a gold star for effort, " Draco scowled, "Please, spare me the disgusting decorum. "

"What the hell, Malfoy?" Harry looked at him quizzically, "Now you're just talking out of your arse. If I didn't give a toss, I would have kicked you out on day one. If I didn't give a toss, I wouldn't have asked for your help to rescue the others. If I didn't give a toss, I would have left Severus to die."

Draco gritted his teeth, "You're all pathetic." He turned around to make his way down the corridor towards the ascending staircase.

"Hey," Now frustrated, Harry turned towards his direction, and stepped into the corridor, "Don't walk away from me and listen."

Draco clasped the staircase railing tightly, as he stopped in his tracks. It took a few moments for him to finally turn around to face the Gryffindor, looking outraged.

"You're not exactly my ally of choice, but here we are. The feeling is mutual, " Harry seethed, "But honestly, wake up, Malfoy! I thought you said you were done with this petty fighting. We are not kids anymore. We have far bigger problems – You know that. So, stop fighting with me on this."

"What do you expect me to say? That I am happy to be here? Yeah, I'm bloody thrilled."

"Yeah well, neither am I. Don't make this more difficult than it already is, " Harry sighed, "But I also need your help with…him." He gestured to the man snoring away in the sitting room.

Draco scrunched up his face, "I'm not a Healer."

"Well, I'm bloody not either. I can't look after him by myself – You have to help me keep him alive so I can finish this damn ritual. Then maybe…maybe, he has a chance to live. It took me weeks to convince him not to neglect himself…to let himself die, or…off himself. Seriously, Malfoy. Think of someone else besides yourself for a change. If it were you in his place, I'd do the same."

"You wouldn't dare," Draco scoffed, unconvincingly.

"Oh yeah, wouldn't I?" Harry retorted, "The day Severus was attacked brutally by Voldemort, I wanted to kill him myself. Now knowing the truth, I want to save him. Don't test me, Malfoy. Yeah, I would do the same for you. Even if you get on my nerves."

"Well, lucky me, then, " Draco rolled his eyes.

"This isn't a joke, " Harry stammered, "Seriously, get a grip. Open your eyes. Everything has changed now. We are doing everything we can to reverse a world that you participated in to destroy. "

Draco remained silent. All they could hear was Severus' sickly, irregular breaths in the other room.

Eventually, Draco inhaled deeply, "You know. I'm not proud of what I did. I'm not proud of my choices, and I'm not proud of how everything went down. Like you, I can't change a damn thing."

Harry's face softened, "…Can we at least have a truce? The only way we can rescue your mother and look after Severus, is by working together. Let's try and fix this. Alright?" Harry took a few steps closer and extended an arm to him. It was risky, and Ron would likely murder him for it, but he had to try.

Draco lowered his gaze to the extended arm and frowned for a few moments as if he were at war with himself. He looked conflicted; repulsed, even. Harry was tempted to retract his hand and forget it all. But still, he continued. Draco's expression gradually relaxed and to Harry's surprise, he outstretched his arm and clasped his forearm, holding it firmly in place. Even though Harry had initiated it, he was more shocked about it than Draco appeared to be when the gesture was returned.

The Slytherin looked back at Harry, "Don't make me regret this, Potter." They shook their grasp until Draco pulled away.

Harry shook his head, determined, "Let's just do this right, this time, okay?"

Draco nodded, "Yeah." He swallowed thickly, as he crinkled his eyebrows, "And also…Thanks for…Looking after my Godfather. I don't want to lose him, either." He appeared uncomfortable with the words that came out of his own mouth.

A thanks? From Draco? What is this new world coming to?

Harry hesitated, "Don't thank me. We've lost enough people already. I refuse to lose anymore."

The blonde Slytherin exchanged glances in agreement and made his way upstairs to retreat for the night. Harry, still feeling slightly buzzed for the firewhiskey, turned back towards the sitting room, and found space on the single sofa to rest his head. He didn't feel comfortable leaving Severus sprawled on the other couch by himself that night, so now it was his turn to keep a watch on him. Severus was still in a deep sleep, coughing occasionally, but went right back to his mildly gurgling breaths. Harry kicked off his shoes and drew his feet up to his chest. He didn't want to sleep yet. For some reason, he didn't feel comfortable leaving Severus alone now. He had a sudden pang in his chest at the thought of waking up to find him without a breath.

Severus began to shiver again. Harry leaned closer observing the man gently, withdrew his wand, and cast a warming charm on the man's cloak accidentally stirring him.

"Not dead yet…Go to bed."

Severus' sudden raspy voice within the silence caused Harry to jump. He looked back at the older Slytherin, who smirked underneath his ruffled curtain of raven hair.

Sneaky. I should have known.

"Real funny. Thanks for that, " Harry exclaimed, a little too loudly, grabbing his chest to feel his racing heart.

"…You're slightly intoxicated."

"I am not – " Harry frowned.

"You're not usually that jumpy, " Severus managed to open his dark, onyx eyes and struggled to keep them focused. His eyelids felt heavy. He narrowed his eyes, observing Harry before him, "…Your cheeks are flushed, eyes moderately bloodshot, and you're far too bloody loud."

Harry felt slightly offended, but chuckled anyway, "…Isn't anything sacred?"

Severus lightly snorted in amusement, "Not anymore, it isn't." He glanced over at the box of food at the table, with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, uh, a gift from Molly. She insisted I take these back. You know her, she won't take no for an answer."

"Ah, yes. Why do you think I no longer went to the Burrow, even on Order business? Last few incidences I did, I departed feeling like a stuffed chicken."

Harry smirked, "Yep, that'll do it."

Severus exhaled, slowly, "…What time is it?"

Harry glanced wearily at the old grandfather clock in the corner of the room, "Nearly two am."

Severus grumbled to himself, as he attempted to shuffle into a new position, but winced in pain instead. Eventually, he gave up on the repositioning and sighed to himself. He closed his eyes, barely able to keep them open.

"Just, ah…rest here, okay? You don't have to move, " Harry settled back within his chair, flinging the spare blanket over his legs.

"You are not required to be here."

"No, I don't, but I can't be bothered dragging myself up three more flights of stairs, " Harry shrugged, "So you're stuck with me tonight."

"…Merlin help me… " Severus sighed in defeat, "Where is Draco?"

"Upstairs, " Harry responded.

Severus gave a single nod, too exhausted to further respond verbally. Harry watched the man's chest, rise, and fall at an irregular rhythm. His dark hair was slightly damp, likely from cold sweat. His face was gaunt and paler than ever. His thin lips appeared dry and cracked, as dried blood was evident at the corners of his mouth – likely from his occasional coughing fits. The bandage plastered against his neck appeared dry and unsoiled by fresh blood, apart from the small patches of dried blood that could be seen through the dressing. He knew it was always a painful thing to remove, and at one point, Severus nearly passed out in his attempt to change it the other day. He was far too stubborn to take anything for the pain.

"Night."

Harry gave a small, sad smile, "Goodnight, Severus."

There was silence now, except for the sound of Severus' breaths as eventually, the man drifted back into a light snore. Harry waited for a few moments before he settled back and closed his own eyes. It didn't take long until he, too, drifted off to sleep.

Hopefully, both of them can be without nightmares tonight.