“Love me, Harry.” Draco whispered in his ear.

Drabble Death By Chocolate (Trio)

2009-09-21T13:50:07Z

Title: Death By Chocolate
Author: Lady B
Challenge: This weeks AWDT prompt of "What do you mean we're out of chocolate?"
Pairing: Severus/Harry/Draco, Ron/Hermione
Rating: PG13
Warnings: implied Mpreg
Summary: Severus Snape and Draco Malfoy, once part of Voldemort's Death Eaters, fearless in the face of of danger at every turn, are now completely afraid for their lives.
Disclaimer: All owned by JK Rowling and various companies.
Author's Note: Been a while since I've been on LJ/IJ and AWDT and this one jumped out at me.

Up until this point in their lives, Draco Malfoy and Severus Snape were not afraid of anything. They had fought beside and against one of the most feared Dark Lords in wizarding history and came away with their lives intact. They spent time in Azkaban for their sins and came away with their sanity intact.

And then Harry Potter came into their lives like a dervish, ruthlessly breaking down all their carefully constructed walls.

But if you were to look in on them today - you wouldn't recognize them. They were huddle together in a corner of their home, arms around one another as they stared up at their husband. Who looked anything but happy. They were man enough to admit they were scared.

"Repeat what you just told me, slowly and carefully so I can understand it." Harry growled, eyes glinting like chipped emerald ice. Draco gulped and looked at Severus beside him.

"We're, uh, out of chocolate this morning." Severus murmured. He cringed, wishing the wall behind him would swallow him whole at the look on Harry's face. It was so silent in the room, you could hear a tick sneeze. Harry stared down at the two of them for so long, sweat began to pool and run down between their shoulder blades, making both Draco and Severus uncomfortable and itchy.

"What do you mean we're out of chocolate?" Harry's tone was deadly when he finally spoke. It was the same tone of voice that uttered the final spell used to defeat Voldemort. Severus let out a small sound of fear that he would deny he made till his dying day.

"Well...uh..." Draco began, "Severus and I were working late last night and didn't realize we were snacking on the chocolates until we noticed it was all gone this morning."

Harry's glare turned downright hostile and Draco thought he was going to piss himself...

About a mile and a half away, Hermione, who was feeding her daughter, heard what sounded like an explosion and the ground shook beneath her feet. Ron ran into the room, wand drawn.

"What the hell was that?" he asked.

Hermione chuckled, wiping a glob of mushed peas off Milla's face.

"Severus and Draco ate Harry's chocolates again." Ron put away his wand.

"You think they would have learned the first time not to eat a pregnant person's chocolate." he laughed before going to the floo.

"Mr Weasley, what can I do for you today?" The proprietress of Honeydukes smiled.

"Another order of chocolates for The Potters, if you please."

"Those two never learn do they?" The woman laughed, agreeing to send it right away.

"Want to go check on them?" Ron asked after he ended the call.

"Nah. Let them stew a bit. Maybe they'll finally get it through their heads to leave Harry's things be." Hermione chuckled.

And the moral of the story is: Never get between a pregnant person and their chocolate supply. Ever.

End.

New (tentative title) Rogue of the Rune Heart (original)

2009-07-14T01:44:23Z

Title: Rogue of the Rune Heart
Author: Belinda aka Lady B
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romance, Action, Adventure
Rating: R
Summary: She was a princess with the heart of a warrior. He was a space pilot with the heart of a knight. When the fates conspire against them, will they be able to withstand the pressure?
Disclaimer: This is an original work of fiction. All characters and plot lines are mine alone.

1.

Andras, Supreme Ruler of the Kingdom of the Four Lances, stared at the paper in his hand, a frown on his face and fear in his heart. He looked at the person that delivered the news to him.

"Are you sure of this?" he asked, his voice betraying nothing.

"As sure as I am of the sun rising in the morn, My Lord." came the smooth reply. Andras took a moment to think.

"And what of the messenger?"

"Dead, My Lord. A necessary thing, I assure you."

"I see."

"What shall we do, My Lord? The princess must be protected at all costs, if this note is to be believed."

"Call the Council. I will meet with them in a few hours to get their opinions."

"As you wish." the man bowed and turned to leave.

"And Akor?" Andras called. The man known as Akor turned to look back.

"Tell no one of this. Secrecy is of the utmost importance."

"As you will it, Sire." Akor bowed and left. If anyone had been looking at him then, they would have wondered about the smirk firmly planted on his face.

- - -

Akor du Xian had been in a position of power for many millennium, as Senior Advising Council to the Supreme Ruler. He held many dark secrets, that if brought to light, would have ended his life many times over. It had been him and him alone who had conspired against the former King Wulfcot, thus ending his life and allowing Andras to become Supreme Ruler at the tender age of 15.

Despite his plans, Andras refused to bend to his subtle hints of giving up control. To say he was "upset" when Andras returned from a diplomacy mission with a new wife – a Xylonian princess no less - would have been an understatement. Akor locked himself in his chambers for two days and destroyed everything he owned.

After he had calmed down, he rearranged his plans to try and discredit the new Queen, but he hadn't thoroughly done his research on Xylonians. Eideann fought him at every turn. He tried assassinations. She showed her skills as a warrior in her own right. Even when she was pregnant with their firstborn, she still demonstrated the sharp skills that her people were known for. Akor was frustrated to the point of madness. So he switched his attentions to the heir. And was thwarted again when the little princess took down her first assassin at five years old. This began to threaten everything Akor worked so hard to achieve, even the death of the Queen did not satisfy him. He was now dedicated to ending the line at any and all costs.

- - -

He hurried to his chambers and to the secret room he had there. From his "central command" he could monitor Andras from anywhere in the castle. He had attempted to put up surveillance in the King's own chambers but the guards always prevented him from even nearing the room, and the King's personal guard always swept his room for hidden devices on an hourly rotation.

He watched the King pace the length of the throne room, muttering to himself before he turned and strode from the room. Turning a few dials, Akor followed him to a familiar part of the castle where his daughter resided.

Flipping a switch, the center monitor became focused on the chambers of the Princess, where he could see her on her bed, reading something he couldn't see. She hastily placed it under her pillow a moment before her father entered the room. Flipping another switch, Akor began to listen in on their conversation...

- - -

Kellan stared at the note in her hand that had come into her possession not a few hours before. She had found it in the back of her wardrobe, hidden beneath some of her mother's possessions. It was written in the language of her mother's people, something she had learned to read and write when she was old enough to do so.

My dearest daughter,

If you are reading this, then the plot to end my life has come to fruition and I am no longer there to see you grow into the beautiful woman I know you'll become.

You must be shocked that I would know that I was fated to die the night I did. I've always known I was to die, I could see it on certain faces of the Council – Akor's especially.

DO NOT TRUST THAT MAN! He is evil! I believe he may have been the one who had your grandfather killed, and the one who tried to have you murdered when you were five. He hides his secrets well, but I uncovered those secrets, which I knew would forfeit my life.

I am entrusting you, my daughter, with a task. You must go to my homeworld, Xylon. There you will find all the proof you need of Akor's evil deeds to try and take over the Kingdom. Do not let your father know about Akor until you have this proof.

Be brave my daughter and remember all that you have learned. Know that you were the one bright light on my darkest days.

Asth'lia Z'ya Cei Swi'lothar Bom'li
(Until we meet where the stars shine bright)

Mum

With a scowl on her face, Kellan made a vow to avenge her mother's death and to succeed in the task laid before her. She heard footsteps near her room and quickly shoved the note under her pillow.

Her father entered the room a moment later.

"Father." Kellan smiled.

"Kellan, we need to talk." The smile slid from her face and she brought her hands up. To anyone else, it would look like a nervous gesture. But to Kellan and her father, it was their way of talking in case someone was listening in or watching.

"What's wrong?"

(Something has happened.)

"I plan on convening the Council this evening to set up a time for the members of the Four Ruling Houses to meet."

(I've discovered a plot to try and kill you and have the blame fall at King Rolfgard's feet. This would start a war between the two Kingdoms where no one would survive.)

"Is that good or bad?"

(What do you need me to do?)

"You know how it is when a bunch of old guys with a foot in the grave get together in one room and the wine flows freely."

(You are going to take a trip.)

"I don't think I want to be around for that. I've always wanted to visit Arai. I hear the shopping is wonderful."

(I found a note from Mother. She said she had proof of a plot against our family on Xylon.)

"I think that's a fine idea. When will you go?"

(Take Alsia with you.)

"This weekend I think should be soon enough."

(Why?)

"Be sure to check out the fruit markets in Di'thain. I took your mother their just before you were born and she had a fondness for their pearchains."

(Captain Arsene wants you to use her as a decoy. You will play her bodyguard.)

"I was thinking of getting a pet. Mother always did say I should have a bird or something."

(People may recognize me.)

"I think a dog would be better."

(That is why you will wear something covering your face but leaving your eyes to see.)

"Is there anything else you'd like me to do while I am there?"

(Who else knows I am going?)

"Just have fun, and give your old man a call every couple of days."

(No one except Lydia and myself. The less who know, the better.)

"I think I can do that." Kellan smiled. She got to her feet and was pulled into a hug.

"Stay safe." Andras whispered into her ear.

"I love you, Dad." was her reply. Andras squeezed her gently in reply. When they stepped apart, he was all business again.

"Don't go overboard on the spending."

(Please try and get along with whoever goes with you.)

"I'll try." she laughed, needing no special signals against that piece of advice. Her father nodded and left the room, secure in the knowledge that his dear wife left the means for their daughter to protect herself.

- - -

In his secret chamber, Akor sat back with a grin. He needed to get a team to Arai before the princess's arrival. He rubbed his hands with glee as he shut off his equipment. If he had left them on a moment longer, he would have seen Kellan call for Alsia to explain what was really happening.

Let the fun and games begin...

Thoughts, opinions? :)

Fic Rec You Had Me From... (H/D) by La Nuit

2009-07-05T15:01:44Z

Title: You Had Me From...
Author: La Nuit
Archived @: HPFandom.net
Rating: Mature
Status: WIP @ 7 Chapters, last update July, 5, 2009
Genre: Post-War, Romance, Humor, H/C
Pairing: Harry/Draco
Summary: Post-war and a lot has changed at Hogwarts. The Golden Trio return for their seventh year and Harry learns just how very powerful words are...

Lady B's Observations: Harry doesn't think he's gay, especially gay for one Draco Malfoy, and he sets out to prove it...but the rest of the student body can clearly see that he is. The river of De Nile is long and paved with good intentions.

You'll definitely laugh at this one. Updates are slow but worth the wait.

Original Closer Than Yesterday

2009-06-08T06:34:28Z

Sorry guys and gals...I need a serious break from fandom at the moment. I found this on one of my cds and decided to see if inspiration strikes.

Title: Closer Than Yesterday (originally titled Fourth Times A Charm)
Author: Lady B
Date Started: July.14.2003
Date Picked Up Again: June.07.2009
Genre: Original Het
Rating: R
Summary: Zander loved Ava, but couldn't take that final step to make her a permanent part of his life, so he ran away...again. For Ava, being stood up at the altar for the third time was the last straw and she has written Zander out of her life, seemingly for good. When Zander comes back to town, determined to cross that line, will Ava take him back, or is it too little, too late?
Disclaimer: This is an original work of fiction. Any reference to real persons of interest are wholly coincidental. All characters are from my own imagination. I am not making money from this fic...darn it.

- - -

I may not be there yet, but I'm closer than I was yesterday. ~Author Unknown

Summer...2001...

It was supposed to be the happiest day of her life. And for the third time, it turned into a disaster. Ava stared down at the miles of white Vera Wang in her hands, gently rubbing the gold brocade trim that had taken nearly two weeks to sew. The flowers that made up her bouquet, flown in from Hawaii only hours before were slowly wilting on the bench next to her.

Around her, friends and family milled about the antechamber of the church she should have been getting married in, the buzz of their conversations passing through her ears in a fog.

Her name was spoken softly and she looked up into the kind faces of her almost in-laws, "Ava, are you all right?" Janessa asked.

"I'm fine, Mrs Wallace." Ava told her. Hickory gave her a smile.

"Ava, if I you'd like, I could beat that boy's ass for you." he suggested. That garnered a small laugh from Ava.

"As much as I'd like to take you up on that offer, I think I'll decline, Mr Wallace."

"I did not raise my son this way. I don't know what gets in his head sometimes." Hick sighed. Someone touched her shoulder and she looked up into the worried face of her mother.

"Are you all right?" Jordana asked.

"I'm fine, Mom." Ava sighed.

"You don't look fine." her father growled, coming up beside them.

"I'm fine, Dad. Honest."

"Avalonia Tristiana Rashleigh, I warned you this would happen!" her brother, Zachary stated.

"Zach, I really don't want to talk about this. It's over, it's done and I'm moving on with my life."

"But Ava...this is the 3rd time! How many more times can that man break your heart?"

"It's never going to happen again." Ava vowed with a fierce scowl on her face, "This is the last time I let Zander Michael Wallace walk all over me."

And with that, Ava got to her feet and announced to her friends and family – again – that the food was not to be wasted and everyone should enjoy it. Then she went to change her clothes and headed home.

And unlike the last two times, she refused to cry.

...TBC

Rec Draco The Cowardly Lion by Lomonaaeren (Harry/Draco)

2009-05-20T16:09:20Z

Title: Draco The Cowardly Lion
Author: Lomonaaeren
Archived @: Fanfiction.net
Summary: When Draco gets Sorted into Gryffindor, everything changes. For the, uh, for the better?
Genre: AU Crackfic
Rating: PG13 for implied sex
Status: Complete One-shot

I only have 1 thing to say...

New Three Men And A Harry

2009-05-16T02:13:53Z

Title: Three Men And A Harry
Author: Lady B
Genre: Non-magic AU
Rating: Rated PG13
Setting: Sunny California
Characters: Harry, Severus, Remus, Sirius and various others.
Summary: Take three confirmed bachelors. Add in one cute baby. Mix together and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended. Three Men And A Baby belongs to Leonard Nimoy and Touchstone Pictures.
Note: I was inspired by a one-shot I read on FFN and the movie, Three Men and a Baby.

- - -

It was a bright and sunny Saturday morning on Mysteria Walk. In a house located on a cliff overlooking the bay, one of the three resident bachelors was slowly waking. Now, these three bachelors had been longtime friends and business parters. They knew each other very well, and had their Saturday routine down to an art. It was Remus who always woke first to start the coffee, feed the animals and get the newspaper. Severus would awake just shortly after to start breakfast. Sirius was the last one to wake, who would then take the dog for a walk before they would all shower and start their various Saturday morning chores.

But this morning's routine was about to be thrown slightly out of whack...

- - -

Remus groaned as the sun from the open window leeched into his eyes. He sat up slowly, scratching an itch on his naked chest and ran his hands thru his hair. Blinking in the morning light, he stumbling out of bed and headed for the bathroom, tripping over clothes along the way. He made a mental note to check laundry soap levels. After taking care of business, he headed downstairs to start the coffee maker and set out bowls of food for Orion, their black lab, and Osiris, their Egyptian Siamese cat. Yawning and groggy, Remus headed for the front door, not quite awake, to get the morning paper. But it wasn't the morning paper he saw.

"Severus, Sirius! Come quick!" he shouted, completely wide awake.

- - -

Severus was just exiting the bathroom when he heard Remus shout. Dropping the towel he'd been using to dry his hair, he headed for the stairs, pausing long enough to pound on Sirius's closed bedroom door, "Sirius, get up! Remus set the house on fire again!"

He took the stairs two at a time, already picturing the call to 911 – Remus tried to cook at least once a month, and they knew all the firefighters by name. Sirius was right behind him and rammed into Severus when the man suddenly paused.

"Dammit Sev, a little warning next time!" Sirius grumbled. Severus didn't say a word, which was a first for him. "What's wrong?" Sirius wondered, looking to see what he was staring at. Remus was standing in the open front door, staring down at the front step. The two other men moved to see what had Remus frozen in the door. A soft cooing sound drew their eyes downward and both men's eyes widen in shock.

"Why is there a baby on our front porch?" Sirius asked.

To be continued...

Update Their Fathers Daughters Chapter 2 (H/S)

2009-05-11T12:42:56Z

Title: Their Fathers Daughters
Author: Lady B
Characters/Pairings: Harry Potter/Severus Snape, Draco Malfoy/Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley/Pansy Parkinson, Brenda Fay Potter-Snape, Brenna May Potter-Snape, Evan Ray Potter-Snape, Thora Jean Malfoy and others.
Genre: AU
Warnings: Fluff, OOC, implied Mpreg
Rating: PG13 - R for language
Summary: What's it like being the children of The Boy-Who-Lived, his best girl-friend, and two Ex-Death Eaters? Join Harry, Severus, Draco and Hermione on their travels through parenthood.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended. The characters of Brenda, Brenna, Evan, Thora and Henry are all mine.
Author's Note: I decided I needed to add more Harry/Severus to my diet.

- - -

Chapter 2: Shared...

It was a few hours later that Harry returned to consciousness. The hospital ward was silent, and he could hear the murmur of students going to classes in the hallway beyond. There was note from Poppy along with a vial of blue potion resting next to his glasses. He pulled them on before reading the note.

Harry – The blue potion is a nutrient potion you're going to have to take every day from now until the baby is born. Granted it was originally made for pregnant women but it will work the same for you. I can see the look on your face now. You are not the only pregnant teenager to ever grace these halls in all my years here, and you certainly won't be the last. I would like to keep you here for the evening but I know you will balk at that, so I won't suggest it. Take the potion and you will need to start eating three meals a day. And I highly suggest you find the 'other father' and tell him he's going to be a parent. The longer you wait, the worse it will be.

I want to see you for regular checkups and I will send you notice of when that will be.

Congratulations, 'Mommy'!

Poppy

PS – There is a second nutrient potion in the drawer of your bed table, please be sure Ms Granger gets it.

Harry's eyes widened at the last line. He quickly slipped out of bed and pulled on his shoes. He took the potion before pulling the second from his drawer and slipping it into his robes. Once he made sure he had all his things, he went in search of his best friend.

He found her sitting atop of the Astronomy tower facing the Quidditch pitch. From that vantage point, he could see the Ravenclaw team practicing for their upcoming match.

"Hermione?" he queried. Hermione glanced at him before quickly turning away, but not before he saw the tears trailing down her cheeks.

"Hi, Harry." she whispered.

"You okay?"

"Not really."

"Want some company?"

"I'd like that." she smiled. He sat next to her and she rested her head on his shoulder.

"So...who was it?" he wondered. She looked up at him sharply.

"How did you-" she started, but paused when he pulled the nutrient potion from his robes.

"Madame Pomfrey asked me to make sure you got this. You're going to have to take one every morning until then." At that, she seemed to collapse in on herself.

"What am I going to do, Harry? Ron will hate me, you'll hate me. I don't think I can deal with this."

"You won't know until you tell me." he said. Fresh tears bloomed in her eyes and she covered her face with her hands. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and drew her into a hug, which she was thankful for. She mumbled something into his neck.

"Sorry?" he wondered. She sat up and looked him in the eye.

"It was Draco." she repeated. Harry stared at her for a full minute and Hermione was sure he'd explode with anger. He surprised her by bursting out into laughter.

"Malfoy? Oh man this is priceless!" he laughed so hard he fell over, clutching his stomach.

"I don't see the humor, Harry Potter!" Hermione scowled, her misery forgotten in the face of anger at her best friend's audacity. Harry sat up, wiping tears of mirth from her eyes.

"I'm sorry for laughing, but I just find this whole situation hilarious."

"I'm glad my pain amuses you, you jerk!" she snapped. She made to leave but he stopped her with a hand on her arm.

"Hermione, I wasn't laughing at you, I was laughing because your situation is similar to my own." he amended. She sat back down, confused.

"How?"

"I have to start taking my own nutrient potions for the next few months."

"What?" In answer, Harry took her hand and placed over the small swell of his stomach, barely visible through his robes. Hermione felt the taut flesh and her eyes shifted back to Harry in shock.

"How the hell is that possible?"

"Poppy said something about compatible magic and my desire to want a family so much."

"The impossible always happens to you, doesn't it?" she smiled.

"I'm used to it by now." he chuckled. They sat in silence for a bit.

"So...who was it?" she wondered, tossing his own words back at him.

"Snape." he stated. She said nothing for a moment.

"We're a pair aren't we?" she giggled.

"Yeah."

"What are we going to do, Harry?"

"Get the two of them alone and tell them as soon as possible?"

"Pomfrey's suggestion?"

"Yeah."

The both sighed into the air. To Harry's shock, Hedwig landed on his lap, looking at the both of them. If owls could smirk, she was pulling it off real well.

"No time like the present, then." Hermione guessed. Shaking his head, Harry pulled out quill and parchment and scribbled a quick note for the two Slytherins.

"Take this to Professor Snape, girl." Harry told his owl. She nibbled his fingers in reply before taking off. They watched her fly off around the tower and out of sight.

"Now...we wait." Hermione said. Harry took her hand in his and they returned their gaze to the Quidditch pitch, sitting in companionable silence.

To be continued...

Update Their Fathers Daughters - Chapter 1

2009-04-25T03:24:22Z

Title: Their Fathers Daughters
Author: Lady B
Characters/Pairings: Harry Potter/Severus Snape, Draco Malfoy/Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley/Pansy Parkinson, Brenda Fay Potter-Snape, Brenna May Potter-Snape, Evan Ray Potter-Snape, Thora Jean Malfoy and others.
Genre: AU
Warnings: Fluff, OOC, implied Mpreg
Rating: PG13 - R for language
Summary: What's it like being the children of The Boy-Who-Lived, his best girl-friend, and two Ex-Death Eaters? Join Harry, Severus, Draco and Hermione on their travels through parenthood.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended. The characters of Brenda, Brenna, Evan, Thora and Henry are all mine.
Author's Note: I decided I needed to add more Harry/Severus to my diet.

- - -

Chapter 1: In The Beginning...

Harry stared at Madame Pomfrey like she had grown a second head. He had come to her because she was the only medical professional he could trust not to spill his life's history to the many wizarding news agencies that liked to speculate on his life, whether it was true or not.

"I don't think I heard you correctly." Harry told her.

"You heard me, Harry. You just refuse to believe it." she replied.

"Well of course I refuse to believe it because it's completely impossible!"

"You and 'impossible' seem to go hand-in-hand." she reminded him. That was at least true, starting from the day he set foot in Hogwarts as a firstie. And he had done the impossible, finally defeating Voldemort at the ripe old age of 21 just five short months before his visit with Poppy today.

"But...how?"

"Harry, you're twenty-one years old. Do I really need to have the wizard and witches talk with you?" Poppy laughed. Harry's face flamed red.

"That's not what I meant and you know it!" he huffed. She patted his hand and sat down on the chair in front of him.

"Something like this is rare, but it does happen between those with compatible magic."

"But I haven't been with anyone."

"Are you absolutely sure about that? Because if you were a virgin when this occurred, then that is definitely possible."

Harry had to think long and hard. And suddenly a memory came to him...

It was the night he had defeated Voldemort. There had been much celebrating in Hogwarts while Aurors and Unspeakables directed the cleanup effort. The firewhiskey had been flowing like water and Harry had way too much to drink. He had stumbled away from Gryffindor, nearly blind drunk as it were and had somehow made his way to the Astronomy Tower. He had bumped into someone on the way there and nearly collapsed with a fit of giggles.

"Potter, you're drunk." an amused voice said.

"And it's about bloody time too." Harry giggled. A strong hand pulled him to his feet and pulled him close. Harry sighed and rested his head on the strong chest before him.

"Are you all right, Harry?"

"I have ta be, don't I. I defe-deaf...I killed Voldemort." he hiccuped.

"And I thank you for that."

"Sad, really."

"What is?"

"That I'm still a virgin at 21. And I don't even like girls! Too many squishy bits." Harry wrinkled his nose in distaste as his companion's chest shook with laughter.

"I agree with you about that."

"Know what's really sad?"

"Hm?"

"I have a crush on someone, and he doesn't even know it. He hates me."

"I'm sure he doesn't."

"Oh he bloody well does! Hated me the moment he saw me."

"I don't see how anyone could hate you. You are a special person and this man is a fool not to see that."

"That's nice of you to say." Harry sighed, a little sleepily.

"Potter, are you going to sleep?"

"Hm." Harry murmured. That chest shook with laughter again and Harry felt himself being lifted. He protested only lightly.

"Shh. Let me take care of you for once. You've done enough."

"Feels nice." he murmured.

He was vaguely aware of being undressed and placed on a soft bed. The person who had helped him started to move away but Harry grabbed his hand.

"Stay, please?"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

The man sighed and moved away. Though his eyes were closed, Harry could sense the man moving about the room, stoking the fire and turning down the lights. There was a rustling as clothing was moved and then Harry felt the press of a warm and naked body pressed against his own. An arm wrapped around his waist and pulled him closer. He wiggled his bottom, eliciting a groan from his companion.

"Stop that, less you know what you're about." the man hissed. Harry wriggled again, causing the arm to tighten around him in warning. Harry rolled over onto his back, eyes still closed.

"Will you make love with me? Show me how it is, just this once."

"Potter...Harry...you're drunk, I don't want to take advantage."

"I want this, and you wouldn't be taking advantage." Harry was sure of that. He wrapped an arm around the man's neck and hauled him into a sloppy kiss. The man backed off quickly, before leaning down and giving Harry a proper kiss. Harry melted into the mattress.

After that, it was all sensation. The man knew just what to do to make Harry turn into a puddle. As his climax roared through his body, he murmured something that caused the man above him to stiffen in shock for a moment as Harry dropped off to sleep.

"Love you, Sev'rus." Harry sighed. He felt a kiss at his temple and he took a moment to open his eyes to see the object of his desires staring back at him.

"I love you, too, Harry."

"Oh, good." Harry smiled, succumbing to both the alcohol and sleep.

When Harry awoke the next morning, he was in his own bed, a massive hangover making his brain feel like it was going to explode. There was a vial of hangover potion on his bedside table, which he gratefully took. He went to stand and discovered the ache in his backside.

"What the hell did I do last night?" he mumbled. He made his way to the showers, aware that something significant had happened, but he couldn't recall what it was.

And if he found Snape staring at him several different times during breakfast, he made no mention of it, even if it was a bit odd.

Harry's eyes widened in shock.

"Oh my god!" he breathed.

"Harry?" Poppy looked at him in concern.

"Oh my god! He's going to kill me!" Harry began to hyperventilate.

"Harry, calm down! This is not good for you at the moment!"

"What have I done? He's going to kill me!" Harry's vision began to blur and he felt faint.

"Harry!" Poppy's voice sounded from far away. But Harry didn't hear her. He had fainted.

To be continued...

New Their Fathers Daughters (Harry/Severus)

2009-04-20T15:28:17Z

Update Just A Girl, Chapter 11

2009-04-18T05:04:55Z

Title: Just A Girl
Author: Lady B
Genre: AU Het
Pairing: Draco/Girl!Harry
Rating for this chapter: PG13
Summary: Lily Potter was the top of her class in Charms and Hexes. With a bit of creativity and a spell from an ancient relative, she cast a spell upon Harry the moment she died, thereby ensuring that her child would survive. Only no one understood the nature of her spell and its long-term effects. Is the Wizarding World prepared to deal with...A Girl Who Lived?
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: Yes this is het. I know I said I'd never write one again, but my bunny was chomping at my heels for this. I'm not following the books/movies much and there will be time-line jumps.

- - -

Chapter 11: The Best Defense...

There was an air of excitement as the Gryffindor/Slytherin Fifth Years made their way to their first full DADA class without Umbridge. They had enjoyed their combined Defense/Potions classes immensely but they missed learning about new spells and hexes.

Harry and Draco were the first through the door and they stopped dead in their tracks, causing those behind them to collide with their backs. This caused a slight traffic jam as bodies tumbled to the floor, Ron Weasley being unlucky enough to be at the bottom of the pile.

"Oi! What gives?" came his muffled shout as everyone gained their feet. They finally made it into the room and gaped in surprise. Gone were the desks and cages and various books on dark curses. Instead they stepped into a large, lush forest, complete with a waterfall in the background. Once the last person was in the room, the door slammed shut and disappeared. A moment later, Harry ducked when a spell winged it's way her direction. She grabbed Draco by the front of his robes and yanked him down. The spell passed harmlessly over their heads. Unfortunately, Ron had been standing behind them and caught the spell directly in the face. He shouted in surprise when his nose began to grow like Pinocchio's.

More spells winged their way toward the fifth years, from every direction.

"Everybody move!" Harry shouted, getting to her feet and ducking behind a boulder. She whipped out her wand and took a moment to peek around her protection. The light blue light of a water spell made it's way toward her and she ducked back as it exploded harmlessly behind her.

"Where's it coming from?" Hermione asked from nearby.

"Hard to say. Seems like there is more than one attacker." Draco replied.

"How the hell did they get into the school?" Blaise wondered.

"I don't think were being attacked." Harry replied.

"How can you say that?" Ron scowled.

"If we were seriously in any danger, the school's wards would have activated." she told him.

"And how the hell do you know that?" the red-headed idiot demanded. Harry clenched her fist around her wand and counted to twenty in rapid German to keep herself from hexing the idiot.

"Try reading Hogwarts: A History sometime, Weasley. You might learn something other than Quidditch statistics." Draco snapped.

"What do we do?" Hermione asked, willing to go along with whatever Harry had planned.

"Everyone use disillusion spells and silencers on yourself and your clothes. If one of us can sneak around behind her, we'll have a chance."

"Her?" Ron frowned.

"Professor McKay, you twit!" Harry growled. Ignoring him the rest of her time, she waved her wand over herself and slowly vanished from view.

"We go on three." Harry whispered. She counted silently to three and they moved as a group, moving slowly so they didn't give away their positions. The other remaining students were too busy panicking and shooting spells blindly into the trees and made a perfect distraction.

Harry spotted their professor hiding in a tree near the waterfall. Professor McKay's vantage point gave her a clear view of the room and the students in it. She pressed her wand to her hand and a moment later, a battle dummy popped up from the ground and shot a Jelly-Legs jinx at the mass of students, catching one in its spell and dropping Susan Bones to the ground. Harry moved closer, wand drawn.

Just as she was about to cast a spell, she lost her footing on some loose moss and fell, giving away her position. McKay caught her in a body bind not a moment later. As Professor McKay was distracted with Harry, Neville Longbottom, of all people, crept up behind the professor and dropped her with a Stupefy.

The battle stopped and the room reverted back to a regular classroom, complete with scorch marks on the walls from the various spells. Neville released his spell and helped the professor to her feet. She then turned to help out Harry.

"You're a bit rusty on your stealth skills, Potter." Professor McKay grinned.

"We haven't had a decent teacher, other than Professor Snape, since I've been here, ma'am." Harry smiled.

"Well, I'm here to rectify that. Good job organizing your team like that. Didn't even see Longbottom behind me. I think twenty points for each of you will do for a start." Professor McKay smiled at the small team of students Harry had commanded. She turned to Neville, "And fifty for you, Mr Longbottom. Well done." The other Gryffindors were shocked to see Neville grin so large it nearly split his face.

"For the rest of you, running about like chickens with your heads cut off is the fastest way to get yourselves and your friends killed. You're lucky that I was only shooting harmless first year spells. If this were a real battle, with real Death Eaters, your families would be collecting your bodies from the morgue right now." The others flinched at that.

"Take your seats and we'll start discussing the things that were done correctly and incorrectly so you will be better prepared. I don't know about your last teachers, but I will work you hard to make sure you can defend yourselves and others in the heat of battle. There will be no slacking off in this class." With that, she swished her wand at Padma and Lavender, who were giggling and whispering in one corner of the room over something. A magazine came sailing out of their hands and Professor McKay set it on fire. "Do I make myself clear, ladies?"

"Yes, Professor!" the girls gulped.

"Good. Everyone take their seats and let's get started."

Draco looked at Harry as they moved to their seats.

"What?" Harry asked.

"I take it you're somewhat familiar with our new professor."

"She was one of my dueling instructors at Salem." Harry giggled.

"I have a feeling Defense Against The Dark Arts is going to become my second favorite subject." Draco grinned.

"I agree." Hermione replied from behind them. They shared a laugh before returning their attention to their professor.

To Be Continued...

I do apologize for the lengthy delay in this next installment. I think I'm completely burnt out on the boys and really need a break. Please don't expect rapid updates and if you wish, feel free to remove yourself from the update alerts. I won't hold it against you. As it is, it may be another couple of months before I work on this again as RL issues have made themselves known on top of my insanely busy work schedule. Additionally, I will be out of town from May 22 – June 5 and won't have access to the net where I am going.

Drabble Rec Welsh Hills (H/S) by celandineb

2009-04-11T01:30:12Z

HP ficlet: Welsh Hills [Harry/Severus, general]
Title: Welsh Hills
Author: celandineb
Fandom: HP
Pairing: Harry/Severus
Rating: general
Length: 239 words
Summary: Harry persuades Severus to take a brief holiday.
Note: For ladybahiya who wanted Harry/Severus, hiking.

Fic Rec Broken Wings (H/S)

2009-03-30T06:21:28Z

Title: Broken Wings
Author: Snapegirlkmf
Archived @: Fanfiction.net
Characters: Severus/Harry father/son relationship
Rating: PG13
Genre: Hurt/Comfort
Summary: Desperate to escape his guilt and nightmares after the third task,Harry transforms into a hawk by accident and ends up breaking both wings and suffering partial memory loss. He is found by Snape, who helps him and discovers the truth about his professor.
Status: WIP @ 6 chapters, last updated March 30, 2009 - updates once a week.

Lady B's notes: An animagus story with a twist. From what I've read so far, it's very good. And you must bear witness to a whiny, bitchy "Please don't tell daddy on me" Draco. It's amusing to watch.

Fic Rec Harry's First Detention and Harry's New Home by kbinnz

2009-03-18T05:47:48Z

Title: Harry's First Detention and Harry's New Home
Author: kbinnz
Archived @: Fanfiction.net
Pairings/Genre: Severus takes Harry as his ward/adopted son.
Rating: PG13
Status HFD: Complete One-shot
Status HNH: WIP@36 Chapters, updates frequently
Summary HFD: Take one mistreated boy, one misinformed man, mix well and watch what happens.
Summary HNH: One lonely little boy. One snarky, grumpy git. When the safety of one was entrusted to the other, everyone knew this was not going to turn out well... Or was it?
Author's Note: This is a sequel to "Harry's First Detention" and makes reference to events in that story. If you haven't read it, this story may not make much sense... If you have read the story, then this sequel tells the tale of how Snape fulfilled the tasks Dumbledore assigned him. This story picks up only a few days after "Harry's First Detention".

Lady B's Observation: Each chapter is a lesson in laughter. I did read "Harry's First Detention" but in all honesty, you could probably skip it and still get an idea of what went on from the first chapter of "Harry's New Home". Bookmark it, because it's a wild and fun ride. Can Sev be my dad, too? Please?

Announcement!

2009-03-09T13:25:08Z

It has come to my attention that there have been some underage visitors to my journal. While I appreciate your visit, I must stress the importance of the fact that you are underage. Do you really want your parents upset with you for reading something that in all honesty, you shouldn't be reading? I don't even let my 14-year old daughter read this stuff! And she knows I write it!

As a result, all anonymous comments are now screened and those IPs will be logged.

I will repeat my earlier warning: I will not be held responsible if you click links to any fics with a rating of R or NC17/18. I am not your parent or legal guardian and I will not be held accountable if you're under the age of consent and you get caught reading through them. Parents should take an active stance on what their children should and should not be looking at on the net. That's what filters and spam controls are for.

Fic Rec The Art of Communication by unbroken_halo

2009-03-09T03:57:57Z

Title: The Art of Communication
Author: unbroken_halo
Pairing: Snarry
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: 712
Summary: Severus straightens out Ron's perception of his and Harry's relationship.
Disclaimer: Harry Potter and company belong to JKR Rowling. This piece of fiction was written for entertainment purposes only and makes no monetary gain for the author.
Warnings: *Snark, language*
AN: Written for ladybahiya for the lovely iconage. *smoochies* Thanks again, darling! Special thanks to the ladies in slash chat too, for the once over. *snuggles and gropes*

I made her an icon based on her last post/rant about a fic review and she made fic based on a prompt I gave her: Harry's defending Snape to his friends in the Great Hall during lunch or something and all the students and teachers hear him. Snape stands up, looks at Harry and with a sneer on his face says "Potter! Your cock, my arse. Tonight at 8. Be there!" and then he leaves the room, robes swirling. Go Read Now!

Drabble One Perfect Morning (S/H/D)

2009-03-05T15:51:46Z

Title: One Perfect Morning
Author: Lady B
Pairing: Severus/Harry/Draco, implied Hermione/Ron
Rating: PG
Summary: Ron doesn't get why Harry would shack up with two former Death Eaters, Hermione shows him why.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: I was reading some comments on an IJ thread and someone mentioned wanting some fluffy, in-bed, being lazy moments between Harry and Draco. I threw Severus in the mix on a whim because it's been a while since I've written my OT3 and I missed that something fierce.

"I don't see why I have to go." Ron pouted.

"Because Harry's your friend and has been for the past twenty years." Hermione practically growled, sick of having this same argument with her husband.

"Whatever." Ron snorted. Hermione ignored him as she headed for the fireplace.

- - -

"No one's home, let's go." Ron whispered. Hermione whipped out her wand and silenced him immediately. She grabbed his hand and led him through the house with an air of familiarity. Ron would wonder about that later.

His eyes widened when she led them up the stairs and he gaped like a landed fish when she stopped in front of what was obviously a bedroom door. He shook his head frantically, not wanting to see what his best friend got up to with Snape and Malfoy. Hermione's silent glare told him he'd better do what she said or he was going to be sleeping on the couch in the foreseeable future. His shoulders drooped in resignation as she quietly opened the door.

He clenched his eyes tightly shut, sure he was going to see something that would give him nightmares for weeks. Hermione pinched him hard and his eyes snapped open in pain. His eyes were immediately drawn to the four-poster before him, and the sight of his best friend. His sleeping best friend. His sleeping best friend who was sandwiched between two sleeping ex-Slytherin Death Eaters.

Before he could turn away, Hermione pinched him again and angrily pointed at the bed. He sighed silently and looked again.

Severus was curled around Harry's back, one slightly pale hand resting on Harry's forearm. Severus's thumb was stroking Harry's skin lightly and Ron watched in fascination as Severus gently kissed the back of Harry's head when Harry mumbled contentedly in his sleep. On Harry's other side, barely visible except for a pale shock of hair, Draco was curled face-first into Harry's chest, using Harry's other arm as a pillow. Draco mumbled something into Harry's chest, and Harry's hand reached up to stroke Draco's hair. Draco settled immediately with a little sigh. All three men had small smiles on their faces.

Hermione looked at Ron, a question in her eyes: Do you understand now?

He nodded at her with a small smile. His best friend was loved and protected, all that Ron ever wanted for him the minute he met him.

He turned to leave the room, letting her know he would meet her back at home. Hermione turned back to the room to see Severus awake and looking at her.

"Thank you." he whispered, not disturbing his sleeping mates.

"Least I could do." she smiled, before leaving the room, closing the door on one perfect morning.

-Fin

The Music Box - Conclusion

2009-02-15T05:23:31Z

Series: The Music Box
Part 5: Love Is A Symbol Of Eternity
Author: Lady B
Character(s): Draco, Harry, Ginny, Hermione
Rating: PG13
Summary: A wedding.
Challenge: IJ/LJ AWDT Valentine's Quickies #14: Love & Marriage
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time,
destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end.
~Author Unknown

There was a knock on the door and Hermione opened it to see Harry standing there, looking very nice in his midnight blue robes.

"Harry! Come in!" she smiled, pulling him into the room, "Let me look at you. My goodness, you clean up nice."

"Thanks, Hermione. Is she ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be." Ginny replied, stepping out of the bathroom in her wedding gown. She and Luna were mixing muggle and wizarding wedding traditions when Ginny had mentioned she always wanted to wear a wedding dress.

"Ginny!" Harry exclaimed, "You look like a dream!"

"Thank you." Ginny smiled, fighting back her tears. Hermione stepped in immediately.

"No tears today! We spent hours getting your hair and make-up just right."

"Sorry." Ginny grinned. Harry smiled at the two girls, forever friends and found his thoughts turning to Draco. He'd been invited to the wedding, Ginny had told him so, but had politely declined. He was still Persona Non-Grata after all these years in some circles and chose to avoid conflict when possible. He didn't notice when Hermione stepped out of the room to check on some last-minute details until Ginny touched his arm. He looked at her.

"Where were you?"

"No where in particular." Harry sighed.

"Harry how long have we known each other?"

"Since you were eleven."

"Don't you think I know by now when your thoughts are somewhere else?"

"You know me too well." Harry smiled for her benefit.

"Harry, what's wrong? You seem so sad." She reached up to brush his hair away from his faded scar, a dim reminder of dark days.

"I've found the one person I want to be with, and I don't know how to tell him."

"Oh, Harry." Ginny sighed, "You need to go to him, immediately, before it's too late."

"I can't."

"Why not?" she demanded.

"I promised you and your father to walk you down the aisle today. I can't just abandon my post." Arthur, as Minister of Magic and father of the bride, wanted to personally perform his daughter's bonding ceremony.

"Harry James Potter, I have more than enough brothers who would be glad to walk me down the aisle today. You need to go to Draco and tell him how you feel." Harry stared at her in shock.

"How did you know it was him?"

"Pansy told me her suspicions the day after you had dinner with him. You really should stop using her as your confessor. She tells me everything." She giggled. Harry rolled his eyes.

"I can't Ginny. He has no reason to feel the same about me. Please, don't ask it of me."

"I can't force you to go, but you're going to regret it in the end." she sighed. She hoped he changed his mind. He hoped she wasn't right.

Hermione came back into the room and Harry focused his attention on the happy day it was supposed to be.

"Ready, Ginny?" Hermione asked.

"I've been ready." she smiled. Harry held out his arm and led her from the room.

- - -

As they walked down the aisle in the pavilion that had been set up on the Quidditch Pitch at Hogwarts, Harry's thoughts turned once again to Draco, wondering what he was doing at that moment, if he was missing Harry as much as Harry was missing him. He didn't realize he'd stopped walking halfway up the aisle until Ginny whispered his name. He looked down at her, apologies reflected in his bright green gaze. She smiled at him and kissed his cheek.

"Go to him, Harry. Go get your man." she smiled, completely understanding.

"Thanks, Ginny. Happy Valentine's Day." he whispered in her ear after he kissed her cheek.

"Happy Valentine's Day, Harry." she smiled. She released his arm, and he turned and practically flew back up the aisle. He turned the corner into the main entrance as he heard Ginny shout out, "George Weasley, come down here and walk your sister down the aisle! Harry's gone to catch himself a dragon!"

Harry laughed, a carefree sound that hadn't been heard in some time. He made it to the Headmistress's office in record time and activated the floo.

"Good luck, Harry!" Dumbledore shouted from his portrait.

"Yes, Potter. Do be kind to my godson." Snape smirked.

Harry waved to them both and shouted out the address before stepping into the green flames, and hopefully, his future.

- - -

Draco admitted to himself that he was lonely, and missing Harry like crazy. He wondered if Harry was enjoying himself at the wedding.

"He's surrounded by his friends. Of course he's having a good time." he mumbled to himself, turning to stare out the window.

"I was having a miserable time actually." came a voice behind him. Draco whirled around, hand over his rapidly beating heart.

"Harry! What are you doing here?"

"There I was, walking my best mate's sister down the aisle to get married. Supposed to happy and smiling and whatnot...and all I kept thinking about...is you." As he was talking, Harry moved closer and closer to Draco, who couldn't move from his spot unless his life depended on it.

"Harry, I-"

"Shut it. I'm not done." Harry whispered. Draco's mouth snapped closed and he gulped.

"Why are you here?"

"Because I missed you. I left Ginny in the middle of the aisle and came here because I missed you like crazy."

"Harry! Are you insane?"

"For the first time in my life, I'm completely sane." Harry reached out and touched Draco's cheek. "I don't know what the future will bring, but I know I don't want to go on without you. I love you, Draco Malfoy." And with that, Harry grabbed Draco and kissed him without restraint. Draco didn't remain passive for long and gave as good as he got.

When they finally came up for air, both were breathless and laughing.

"I love you too, Harry." Draco whispered as their foreheads touched.

Harry wrapped his arms around him and began to sway to music only they could hear. Ilsa poked her head in the doorway and smiled at the two of them. She snapped her fingers and the soft melody of "Love Me Tender" echoed about the room.

Draco rested his head on Harry's shoulder, content that his life, his future, was secure in Harry's arms.

The End

The Music Box - Part 4

2009-02-14T06:09:53Z

Series: The Music Box
Part 4: Walk Carefully In The Beginning Of Love
Author: Lady B
Character(s): Draco, Harry
Rating: R – sexual innuendo
Summary: One dinner changes the course of history.
Challenge: IJ/LJ AWDT Valentine's Quickies ##9, 10, 11, 12 & 13: (9) Strangers In The Night, (10) Champagne & Oysters, (11) If You Love Somebody, Tell Them, (12) "You're Not The Only One Who Feels This Way!", (13) "Love Me Tender"
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: Hope this makes sense.

You have to walk carefully in the beginning of love; the running across fields into
your lover's arms can only come later when you're sure they won't laugh if you trip.
~Jonathan Carroll, "Outside the Dog Museum"

A house elf popped into Draco's study, startling him so badly, the papers he'd been working on went flying everywhere.

"Master Draco, Ilsa be sorry! Ilsa will iron hands!" the elf trembled.

"Ilsa, how many times must I tell you, no elf is to punish themselves while in my care." he sighed as he waved his wand to straighten his work, "Now why have you disturbed me?"

"You has a visitor, Master Draco."

"I do? I wasn't expecting anyone today. Are you sure they are here to see me?"

"Yes, sir." Ilsa nodded, her ears flapping.

"Escort them to the Sun Room and set out tea. I'll be there in a moment."

"Yes, sir." Ilsa nodded, moving to do as she was told. Draco moved to the mirror hanging behind the door to make sure he was immaculate. Wondering who his visitor could be, he left the study.

- - -

A man was standing at the window, looking out over the gardens behind Malfoy Manor. Draco took in the broad shoulders and the fine cut of robes giving him just a hint of what lay beneath and he had to stop to wipe his mouth.

"You wished to speak with me?" he asked. The man turned toward him and stepped out of the shadow of the sun. Draco nearly swallowed his tongue when he saw Harry standing there.

"Hello, Draco." Harry smiled.

"Potter." he stated, no heat in his voice.

"I'm sorry to barge in on you like this, you're probably busy."

"It's all right. What do you want?"

"Dinner."

Draco blinked, "Pardon?"

"Have dinner with me."

"Have you been Confunded?" Draco couldn't help but ask.

"No."

"Imperioed?"

"I've been able to toss that off since I was 14." Harry laughed. Draco bit the inside of his cheek to keep away the images that came to him from that innocent statement.

"Are you mental?" he managed.

"Draco, no! I'm here of my own free will to ask you to dinner."

Draco stared at him for the longest moment and Harry began to fidget with the hem of his robe. Draco found it cute.

"Why?"

"Well...you've been tolerable these last few years, and I realized we're practically strangers around one another, so I figured – what the hell." Harry shrugged.

Draco cocked his head to one side exposing his neck to Harry's gaze and he swallowed hard.

"Please?" he added.

"You've never said please to me before." Draco stated.

"Should I get down on my knees and beg?" Because he would do it if Draco said so.

Draco sighed and he opened his mouth to say 'no' because it sounded like a really bad idea. But what came out was a breathy "Yes."

Harry's grinned threatened to split his face and Draco mentally gave in.

"But I'm picking the restaurant. No doubt you'd pick something muggle." he snorted.

"Fine with me. I'll come back for you at say...seven?"

"Make it eight."

"Eight it is." Harry smiled, moving past him. Draco could have sworn he felt a hand brush his arse and he resisted the urge to turn around and reciprocate.

- - -

"I have to admit, this is impressive." Harry told him later that evening as they were led to their table.

"Glad you like it so far." Draco smiled as they sat down.

"Monsieur Malfoy, a pleasure to see you again." the maitre'd smiled as he came over to them.

"Nice to see you as well, Maurice. This is my friend, Harry." Maurice turned to look at Harry and his eyes widened.

"Mon Dieu! Harry Potter! In my restaurant!" he exclaimed. "Monsieur Potter, it is an honor to have you here. Whatever you like, it is on the house."

"I don't want to impose."

"Merde! It would be my pleasure, Monsieur." And before Harry could argue further, Maurice walked away. Harry looked at Draco and noticed that his eyes were bright with amusement.

"Feel free to laugh at my expense." Harry told him. Draco chuckled as a waiter brought their menus.

"Gentlemen, tonight's appetizer is Oysters and Clam soup. I highly recommend it."

"Draco?" Harry wondered.

"Sounds excellent. Bring two. And for the main course, the fish scampi with a dash of lemon zest, followed by two slices of apple cobbler."

"Cafe au lait?" the waiter wondered.

"Perfect." Draco nodded. "And the House Red if you've got it."

"Excellent choices, sir. I will return with your drinks momentarily." He took their menus and left them alone.

There was silence from them both before Harry laughed.

"What's so funny?" Draco wondered.

"Us. I ask you out and now I have no idea what to talk to you about."

"What have you been up to since school?" Draco wondered, already knowing some of it. But it got Harry to talk.

- - -

After dinner, Draco invited Harry to take a walk with him in the park. He was having a surprisingly good time with Harry and didn't want the night to end too soon.

"Draco, can I ask you something personal?" Harry asked as they were walking over a bridge.

"Hmm?"

"How do you know when you're in love?"

"I don't know. That's one emotion I don't think I'm capable of."

"Did you love your parents?"

"Of course, what child didn't?"

"But as a child to a parent. That's a different kind of love, but you loved all the same."

"What are you getting at, Harry?" Draco wondered where this was going.

"I guess I want to know is...when's the right time to tell someone you love them?"

Draco took some time to think about that.

"I don't think there is a right time per say. I think that if you love somebody, tell them as soon as possible. The war taught me that. Life is too short for maybes and what ifs. Why are you asking me all this?"

"I don't know. It was just something that was bothering me. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable or anything." Harry sighed.

You're not the only one who feels this way. Draco thought to himself. "It's all right, Harry. If you feel comfortable talking to me about this stuff, then I guess that makes us friends." Draco smiled without feeling the joy. He wasn't sure if he wanted to be 'just friends' with Harry.

"Thanks Draco." Harry smiled. A man standing on the corner with a guitar began to play "Love Me Tender" and Harry began to hum along. They walked in silence, both lost in their thoughts.

To be concluded...

Part 3 - The Music Box Series

2009-02-10T13:33:55Z

Series: The Music Box
Part 3: Anyone Can Catch Your Eye
Author: Lady B
Character(s): Draco, Harry, Pansy, Hermione, OFC
Rating: PG
Summary: Having both filled out a questionnaire, now they waited to see the results.
Challenge: IJ/LJ AWDT Valentine's Quickies #3-8: (3) Secret Admirer, (4) Three's A Crowd, (5) One Dozen Long Stemmed Roses, (6) I'm Sending You Some Kisses, I Know You Like Them, (7) Dark Secret Love, (8) Blind Date
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: Sorry I got behind. Work's been keeping me so busy I'm exhausted when I get home.

Anyone can catch your eye, but it takes someone special to catch your heart.
~Author Unknown

Harry stared at the simplistic plaque hanging above a non-descriptive door. Hearts Desire.

"I can't believe I let them talk me into this." he mumbled.

He took a deep breath and opened the door. At first glance, he thought he'd accidentally walked into someone's front parlor. There were comfortable arm chairs and sofas around the room perimeter and a tea service off to one side. There was also a virtual library along the wall near the door. There was no bell to announce his presence, and he was about to call out to let someone know he was there when a side door opened. A woman stepped out and faced him with a warm smile on her face. She was young by wizarding standards but looked to be in her mid-sixties. Hair as dark as coal streaked with flecks of silver that reminded him of Snape. Eyes as bright as the sky, reminding him of Dumbledore. She wore some type of silken dress laced with lots of gauzy material that reminded him strongly of Trelawny.

"May I help you?" she asked. He detected a hint of a Russian accent.

"Um...yes. My friend, Ginny Weasley set up an appointment for me."

"Ah, Mr Potter! A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Madame Aniela Petrova. But please, call me Anna."

"Harry, please."

"Harry, then." she nodded, "What brings you here today?"

"Ginny thought I needed 'fixing up'. Her words, not mine."

"I am assuming she has been her before?"

"Yes. She and my other friend, Luna are set to be bonded in a few weeks."

"Ms Lovegood, I am assuming."

"Yes."

"She was a pleasure to work with, and so easy to match. Let us see what we can do for you, eh?" She indicated a door that he hadn't noticed before. Wary, and gripping his wand tightly in his robe pocket, he stepped into the room. The door immediately slammed closed and he was cloaked in darkness. Fighting not to panic, he drew his wand and cast a small level Lumos to see. The only piece of furniture in the room was a beige couch.

"Mr Potter," came Anna's voice somewhere above him, "I must ask of you to place your trust in me so that I may better read your aura."

"And what if I want to leave?"

"You are not a prisoner here. If you wish to leave, simply open the door."

Harry looked at the door behind him. What would his future be if he stepped outside? Would he always be alone?

Taking a deep breath, he moved to the couch.

"Just lie back and close your eyes."

"All right." He lay back on the couch and closed his eyes. Almost instantly, a vision appeared to him. He could clearly make out himself, naked on a bed while another male hovered above him. He tried to see the man's face but something was blocking it from his view. A hand moved into his line of sight and he noticed a platinum band on the third finger. He glanced downward and saw a matching band on his own hand. The other hand touched his cheek, stroking his jaw and around his neck. Harry could actually feel the love in the touch and it made him want to cry.

"Who are you?" his vision-self asked.

"You'll know when you see me." came the whispered reply.

A bell sounded in his ear and his eyes snapped open. He was shocked to see he was in his own bed at his flat. He looked at his clock and saw that it was almost five in the evening. He'd practically slept an entire day! But that wasn't possible...or was it?

There was a knock on his bedroom door.

"Harry? You awake?" he heard Hermione call.

"Yeah, 'Mione. Come in." She stepped into the room, a smile on her face.

"I didn't think you were ever going to wake. You must have been pretty blitzed after this afternoon. But it was nice of you."

"What?" Harry frowned, "What are you talking about?"

"You gave Luna and Ginny a surprise bridal shower."

"I did?"

"Yes."

"I couldn't have. I was at Hearts Desire most of the afternoon." Hermione gave him an odd look and an unpleasant feeling settled into his stomach.

"Harry...you couldn't have been there. You were there a week ago and nothing came of it." The unspoken 'yet' hung between them like a bad smell.

"Whaaaa-!" he gurgled. "A week! I missed a whole week! How could I have missed an entire week?"

"I don't know. Ginny said the same thing happened to her. She walked around in a fog for a bit, but the minute she saw Luna, it was like she woke up. It's a bit like Sleeping Beauty if you ask me. Terribly romantic." Hermione mused.

"Hermione Jane Weasley! This is not some muggle fairy tale!"

"Oh calm down, Harry. You're still breathing aren't you."

"Ha bloody ha." he grumped.

"Oh get up, Mr Broody. We're supposed to be meeting Pansy for supper in an hour." She grabbed his arm and pulled him out of bed. Realizing he was naked beneath his sheets, he scrambled to cover himself up.

"Hermione!"

"Oh calm down! It's not like I haven't seen one before, especially with Ron running about starkers on weekends. He's quite big in that area, you know. Makes my heart pound thinking of it." she sighed dreamily.

"Thanks for the mental image, Hermione! Now I have to go scourgify my brain!" Harry groaned, finally succeeding in wrapping his bedsheets around him. She laughed before shoving him toward the bathroom.

- - -

Pansy was sitting in the cafe on the edge of Hogsmead waiting for Harry and Hermione when she sensed someone behind her. She whirled around and smiled when she saw Draco. They hugged briefly.

"By yourself?" he asked as she directed him to an empty seat.

"Waiting for friends. You're welcome to join us."

"I have business at Gringotts and stopped for a bite to eat."

"How are you doing?"

"Much better than before. I no longer have this insane urge to fly to Greece and hex the man's balls off."

"Progress indeed. Did you give any thought to what I suggested a week ago."

"You know...I did go there. And somehow, I ended up losing a week of my time somewhere."

"The Fog Effect." Pansy nodded.

"Beg your pardon?"

"That's what Luna calls it. She said the minute she saw Ginny, she 'woke up' so to speak."

Draco analyzed that for only a second, "Oh! It's like some kind of sensor that lets you know when you've found your match."

"Exactly." Draco watched her wave to someone behind him and he turned to see who it was. His breath caught in his throat when he spotted Hermione and Harry coming there way. Harry wasn't looking their direction at the moment. He was busy ogling the new racing broom in the window of the Quidditch supply store. The longer Draco stared at him, the more aware of his own heartbeat he became. And suddenly it was as if a light had gone off in his head. His eyes widened.

"I need to go, Pans. It was nice seeing you. We should get together sometime. Bye!" Draco called out, backing away from the three of them. He turned on his heel and fled.

"What was that about?" Hermione asked, spotting Draco's fleeing form.

"He always was an odd one." Pansy shrugged. Harry finally joined them.

"What did I miss?" he asked as he reached for a croissant.

"Draco being his usual silly self." Hermione chuckled.

"And that's news?" Harry grinned, eating his food.

"Harry fancies himself a funny man this evening." Hermione shrugged. A waiter came to take their orders and then a peaceful conversation about nothing ensued.

- - -

The following afternoon, Harry returned home from his charity work to find a brightly covered Winky standing in his sitting room. She had taken up the late Dobby's eccentric habit of wearing as many brightly colored socks and hats she could.

"Hello, Winky." he smiled warmly.

"Master Harry Potter. Someone be asking Winky to bring this to you." She reached into her tunic and pulled out a small gift-wrapped package.

"Thank you, Winky."

"Master Harry Potter is welcome." Winky bowed before blinking out. He set the box on the table and waved his wand over it to detect any hidden hexes and curses. The only thing on it was a standard shrinking charm and a preservation charm. Curious, he opened it. In the blink of an eye, a large vase filled with a dozen stunning red roses appeared. Harry could only gape like a landed goldfish.

There was a card attached and he quickly took a look at it.

No flower on this planet can
Compare to the beauty
That is you.

It wasn't signed but he still found himself smiling like a love-sick teenage girl.

"Kreacher!" he called out. Kreacher was by his side in an instant.

"Master."

"We need to find a good spot for these. Somewhere with lots of sun during the day."

"Kreacher think library be good."

"Would you take care of it for me?"

"Yes, Master Harry." Kreacher nodded, carefully collecting the vase in his hands before shambling down the hall. Still wondering who his mate would be, Harry turned toward the kitchen to do some therapeutic baking before he headed to Hermione and Ron's for dinner.

- - -

Plans for Luna and Ginny's upcoming bonding (set for Valentine's Day) were progressing at a fast rate, so fast that Ginny had a panic attack on the afternoon of her fitting when she discovered that she had gained ten pounds overnight and had to have her dress refitted. Harry calmed her down by telling her he would go to Honeydukes and buy her that expensive French chocolate she loved so much.

He stepped out of Honeydukes an hour later and headed toward Owl Emporium to pick up some extras for Pig when he caught sight of a blond head of hair making its way through town. He stepped into the shadows of a nearby building to see if it was who he thought it was and was rewarded when he spotted Draco. Draco seemed oblivious to the world around him as he dipped into the bad in his hand. Upon closer inspection, Harry blinked with shock when he saw it was a bag of chocolates. But not just any chocolates. They were plain old Hershey's Kisses from America.

He watched Draco pop the candies into his mouth like expensive chocolates and as the man walked by, he caught sight of a second bag peeking out of the pocket of the man's robe. A warm feeling began to start in his heart.

The longer Harry watched Draco eat his muggle chocolates, the warmer he became until with a shock, a bright light exploded in his brain blinded his thoughts for a moment. He shook his head to clear it and suddenly felt more awake than he had all year. He analyzed this feeling for a moment and his eyes snapped to Draco with an accuracy he hadn't used since his school Quidditch days.

"My mate!" he whispered, not even questioning why this fact didn't bother him, "Ron's going to flip when I tell him." he chuckled. He watched Draco disappear around the corner before turning and heading back to Honeydukes. He had a present to buy.

- - -

Draco apparated home with a sigh, glad another day of working for Gringotts was done. He went to his room, intent on a shower, dinner and then bed when he saw the box resting on his bed.

Curious, he opened it, seeing a note resting on top of whatever was beneath the velvet covering.

From me to you, these kisses few.
I know how much you like them.

He moved aside the velvet and stared in stunned surprise at the large assortment of Hershey's Kisses resting inside. There was also an invitation from the company to visit Hershey, Pennsylvania for a free tour of their chocolate factory.

"Whomever this is, knows me well." he chuckled to himself, popping an almond covered Kiss into his mouth.

- - -

Another Ministry dinner, held the week before Valentine's day, found Harry and Draco in the same room together, and to their secret delight, sitting at the same table, directly across from one another.

There were longing looks between the two of them the entire night, neither noticing that their friends around them were watching them with slight smiles on their faces. Except Ron. Who looked like he wanted to be sick.

- - -

Draco stared at the girl across from him, wondering for the thousandth time why he allowed Blaise to talk him into another blind date. All she did was giggle into her hand and exclaim to whomever walked by how much she wished she had Draco's hair. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes.

There was a commotion near the entrance of the restaurant and Draco sat straight up in his chair when he saw Harry step into the room, a giggling female latched onto his arm like a boil.

Draco caught his eye and winked at him, before nodding his head at the girl on his arm. Harry rolled his eyes and shrugged as the restaurant owner personally ushered the couple to a table on the opposite side of the room. Harry sat so that he was in Draco's line of sight the whole time. Draco was secretly pleased and it made his dinner companion that much more tolerable.

To be continued...

Sorry this seems rushed, I never expected to get so far behind. But I think it turned out all right. I'll be working on Prompts 9 and 10 later on this evening.

The Music Box Series

2009-02-05T05:30:46Z

Writing/Posting of Parts 3 and 4 of The Music Box Series are going to be postponed until this Friday due to my work hours. If all goes as planned, I hope to combine Prompts 3 and 4 with prompt 5 when it comes out tomorrow.

Thanks for reading!

Fic Rec The Angry Dragon by La Nuit

2009-02-03T13:35:56Z

Anyone up for some seriously funny Ron-In-Denial-About-Harry-Being-Gay-And-In-Love-With-Draco?

Title: The Angry Dragon
Author: La_Nuit
Archived @: HPFandom.net
Genre: Romance, Humor/Parody, PWP
Characters: Harry/Draco, Hermione, Other, Pansy, Ron
Summary: Originally a one shot now a short story. In which Ron is inspired and sets Harry on a magazine provoked quest, Harry doesn't want to play but gets roped along anyway and Draco finds himself tempted, teased and tamed.
Rating: NC17
Warnings: Contains Slash Sex

Part 2 - The Music Box Series

2009-02-03T01:56:17Z

Series: The Music Box
Part 2: The Best Way To Mend A Broken Heart
Author: Lady B
Character(s): Harry, implied Harry/UMC, Hermione/Ron, implied Pansy/Dean, Luna/Ginny
Rating: R for language
Summary: Hermione opened the door, took one look at his tear-streaked face and suddenly kicked Ron out of their apartment. Let Girls Night commence!
Challenge: IJ/LJ AWDT Valentine's Quickies #2: Being stood up/dumped
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: I thought I'd try and make an effort to free my muse from my brain and participate in the Quickies fest for Valentine's Day. I'm going to try and make each one a continuation of the previous one, and each title will be some kind of quote about Valentine's Day taken from Quotegarden.com. This will be a Harry/Draco by the end.

The best way to mend a broken heart is time and girlfriends.
~Gwyneth Paltrow
"But Hermione -"

"Ron, don't argue with me about this! Go hang out with Neville and Seamus or something." Hermione snapped. Ron shook his head in amusement.

"Kicked out of my own home, and for what? Some bloody girls thing."

"It's not a girls thing!"

"Then what do you call it when a bunch of grown women, and one gay man get together, stay up all night eating popcorn and chocolate until they puke while watching silly girl movies and then talk about man problems?" Ron grinned.

"Oh! You beast!" Hermione laughed, play smacking her husband across his arms and head.

"Ow! All right woman! I'm going!" Ron laughed, dodging her arms. He quickly packed a few things before kissing Hermione on the cheek.

"Bye Harry!" he called in the general direction of their bathroom. All he got back were loud anguished sobs. "Hope you can handle him." he shot to his wife. She just simply pushed him out the door. She then went to check on Harry.

"Harry?" She knocked on the door.

"I'm fine." came the sniffled reply.

"I'm going to call Ginny, Luna, and Pansy over."

"Where's Ron?"

"I kicked him out for the night. It'll be just us girls. Will you be okay for a moment?"

"Yeah."

"All right. Be back in a jiff."

- - -

"What happened, love?" Luna asked as the group settled themselves among the blankets and pillows scattered around the living room floor. Harry snagged a chocolate truffle and popped it into his mouth.

"He said he wanted more man and less girl. That he couldn't be with someone who wanted to spend time at home, cooking, cleaning and taking care of the six kids we were going to have."

"I would kill to have someone cooking and cleaning for me. And I don't just mean house elves." Pansy sighed. The others agreed.

"But that's not the worse part." Harry continued.

"Spill!" Hermione exclaimed.

"I came home from the store today and caught him wearing his mother's lingerie!"

"No!" Ginny gaped in shock.

"And he accused me of corrupting him and his morals. Me corrupt him? He was the one shoving his cock into me, gladly might I add, on a nightly basis and twice on Sundays!"

Luna burst out into helpless laughter, quickly infecting the other girls.

"It's not that funny!" Harry stated.

"We're not laughing at you, Harry. We're laughing at the situation." Hermione reassured him. He watched his closest friends laughing and couldn't help be affected.

"Well...he did look pretty silly wearing this horrible shade of pink." Harry chuckled. The others roared with laughter and Harry joined them.

- - -

After engorging themselves on cakes and chocolates, and having a crying party over "Pretty In Pink", the talk turned back to Harry's love life (or lack thereof).

"Harry, have you given any thought to blind dating?" Hermione wondered.

"Hermione, you know I don't trust those things." Harry sighed.

"Why not? That's how Ginny and Luna got together." Pansy told him. He looked at the two in question, finally noticing they were quite close together.

"When did that happen and how did I miss it?" Harry wondered.

"You were too busy with what's-his-name to notice." Ginny laughed.

"So what did you do?" Harry was honestly curious.

"I went to Hearts Desire in Diagon Alley and filled out a questionnaire. A week later, I met Luna for dinner and we've been together ever since."

"How does that work?"

"Something in the way you word your answers, I assume, will pair you up with someone with similar wants and desires. I don't really know the mechanics of it or what spells they use to determine the pairings, it's all done anonymously. But since they've been open, they've had a 99.9% success rate." Luna answered.

"That's how I met Dean." Pansy added.

"I think you should give it a try, Harry." Hermione urged.

"I'll think about it." Harry agreed after some thought. Hermione patted his arm.

"Who picks the next movie?" Ginny stated.

"It's Harry's turn." Pansy smiled.

"Let's watch 'The Neverending Story'. I could use a bit of fantasy at the moment." Harry grinned.

"You just want to ogle Atreyu again." Luna giggled.

"I swear it's the hair." Ginny rolled her eyes as Harry threw a pillow at her. The other girls laughed as they got settled for the night.

As they watched their movies and ate chocolate well into the morning hours, Harry was suddenly glad he could turn to his best gal pals when he was feeling blue. He loved Ron, but sometimes a gay man just needed a woman's touch. And the blind dating thing sounded interesting.

To be continued...

Just A Girl Chapter 10

2009-02-01T22:54:26Z

Title: Just A Girl
Author: Lady B
Genre: AU Het
Pairing: Draco/Girl!Harry
Rating for this chapter: PG13
Summary: Lily Potter was the top of her class in Charms and Hexes. With a bit of creativity and a spell from an ancient relative, she cast a spell upon Harry the moment she died, thereby ensuring that her child would survive. Only no one understood the nature of her spell and its long-term effects. Is the Wizarding World prepared to deal with...A Girl Who Lived?
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: Yes this is het. I know I said I'd never write one again, but my bunny was chomping at my heels for this. I'm not following the books/movies much and there will be time-line jumps.

I dedicate this chapter to Love is the key to the world at Fanfiction.net, who was the inspiration for Hogwarts new DADA teacher.

- - -

Chapter 10: America Comes To Hogwarts...

Severus's combined classes were doing so surprisingly well that even Neville managed to get a passing grade on one of the hardest tests they'd had so far that year. Severus knew he couldn't teach both classes for long, but he enjoyed them all the same.

It was the week before Thanksgiving and Severus was heading toward the staff room when he inadvertently bumped into someone coming around the corner. The other person fell to the floor, dropping all her books in the process.

"I am so terribly sorry!" Severus exclaimed, all composure gone in the face of the manners his mother instilled in him. The person on the floor simply chuckled and looked upwards at him.

"It's all right. I should have looked where I was going." the woman smiled. He extended a hand to help her to her feet. He was pleased to note, that although the woman was quite tall (about 5'8" would have been his guess), he could still look down at her, although not quite as much. She wore robes that were the color of sienna, perfect for her brown eyes and shoulder-length brown hair.

"At least let me retrieve your things, since I've so carelessly knocked them to the floor."

"You're too kind." she smiled as Severus knelt down to pick up her books and other personal effects. He handed them back to her and she nodded her thanks. Then she looked at her surroundings.

"You look a bit lost." he couldn't help but say.

"Ah, yes. I am actually. I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of Professor McGonagall's office?" she asked. Severus frowned. He could now detect a hint of some kind of accent in her tone. But he couldn't place it.

"May I ask what this is about?"

"I'm sorry. That's between her and I. And I just met you, so I don't really know you. You understand?"

"Of course. If you would permit me to be your escort, I was on my way to the staff rooms for lunch. Her office is across the hall from there."

"Then I thank you...er..."

"Snape. Professor Severus Snape, Potions Master." he introduced.

"Thank you, Professor Snape." the woman smiled.

"It's only polite to return the introduction." he replied.

"I'm sorry. I want to keep that to myself for the moment." she replied as they headed down the hall. Severus frowned in the silence of their walk.

Minerva's door was open when they arrived, and found the elderly witch sitting at her desk marking some essays.

"Minerva, I ran into this young lady in the hall. She's asking to speak with you." Severus announced. Minerva looked up and smiled.

"I was wondering when you would get here." she stated, getting to her feet. Severus watched as the two women embraced one another like they were old friends.

"Had a bit of trouble at the British Ministry."

"I should have known."

"Minerva? I take it you know one another?" Severus wondered. The two women looked at him.

"We do. Severus, may I introduce you to Jessi McKay, from the International Witches and Mages Association - United States division. The Board of Governors has approved her application to teach Defense for the rest of the year and possibly the next." Severus suddenly placed her accent.

"An American in Hogwarts? I must say this is a bit different." Severus stated. "Professor McKay, it was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to working with you."

"Likewise, Professor Snape." Jessi nodded.

Severus looked at Minerva, "I'm guessing Albus does not know about this?"

"No, he does not, but I imagine he will be learning of it when the official letter comes during dinner." Minerva smirked. Severus arched an eyebrow. He didn't think the Transfiguration teacher had a sadistic streak.

"I thought for certain you would have informed Albus before the news reached the rest of the school."

"Bah! That man has blinders on a mile wide when it comes to people. It's about time something shook him up. The Board thought it best to hire someone outside of the United Kingdom and I must say I approve that decision." Minerva scowled.

"Hear, Hear!" shouted Dilys Derwent from her duplicate portrait hanging behind Minerva's desk.

"Will she tell him?" Jessi wondered, looking at the former headmistress.

"I would do no such thing, young lady. Albus Dumbledore thinks too highly of himself and it's about time something knocked him off his pedestal." Dilys replied.

The living room occupants laughed and decided to spend the time talking and imagining what would happen at supper.

- - -

"Harry, look at that." Draco whispered to his girlfriend as they entered the Great Hall for dinner. Harry looked up from her Potions essay.

"What?"

"That woman at the staff table." Harry looked over and saw the new face at the table. Her gaze moved to the center and saw that Dumbledore was absent.

"Draco, I have a feeling something big is going to happen." Harry smirked, just as Dumbledore entered. The elderly wizard paused mid-step when he noticed the new face in the seat beside his own usually reserved for Minerva.

"I do believe you're right, Harry. Let's get a good vantage point." Chuckling Harry allowed her boyfriend to drag her to the head of the Slytherin table.

Dumbledore resumed his trek to his seat, turning to look at the young woman beside him.

"Hello. I don't believe we've met." he stated.

"Professor McKay, International Witches and Mages Association." Jessi replied.

"Pleasure to meet you. What are you doing here?"

"She's visiting me, Albus. Hope you don't mind." Minerva stated.

"Ah. No. Of course not." Albus mumbled, wondering what was going on. He started dinner and poured himself a finger of brandy.

All through dinner, he subtly (or so he thought) tried to probe Professor McKay's mind and was summarily blocked each and every time. Severus noticed this and was successfully hiding his smirk in his own drink.

Just before dessert was served, an official owl from the Board of Governors landed on Dumbledore's plate. He took the offered scroll, watching with a frown as the bird took off again. He opened the scroll and every eye in the room watched his face pale with shock.

"He looks like someone laced his lemon drops with acid." Blaise snorted.

"Wait for it." Harry shushed him. Dumbledore took a quick swallow of his drink before getting to his feet.

"If I may have your attention." he announced. The hall quieted at once, "The Board of Governors, against my advice, have decided to hire an outside party to shape your young minds. May I introduce your new Defense Against The Dark Arts Instructor, Professor Jessi McKay from the United States division of the International Witches and Mages Association. Please make her feel welcome." Dumbledore sat heavily in his seat, wondering where he had gone wrong, as the Great Hall erupted into cheers and applause.

To Be Continued...

1st in The Music Box Series

2009-02-01T18:51:15Z

Series: The Music Box
Part 1: Skinned Knees Are Easier To Fix Than Broken Hearts
Author: Lady B
Character(s): Draco, implied Draco/OMC
Rating: PG
Warning: broken heart
Summary: The last time he could remember being this nervous was the night he stood before Voldemort and had his mark branded into his arm. This was ten times worse.
Challenge: IJ/LJ AWDT Valentine's Quickies #1: Dinner for one
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's Note: I thought I'd try and make an effort to free my muse from my brain and participate in the Quickies fest for Valentine's Day. I'm going to try and make each one a continuation of the previous one, and each title will be some kind of quote about Valentine's Day taken from http://quotegarden.com. This will be a Harry/Draco by the end.

Sometimes I wish I were a little kid again, skinned knees are easier to fix than broken hearts.
~Author Unknown
The moment Draco set eyes on Vasili, he had fancied himself in love. He had been on a business trip to Greece to check on one of his many Malfoy holdings, and had taken a late evening walk down to the beach. There were still a few people enjoying the sun of the remaining day and Draco had just turned to head back to his hotel when something in his peripheral vision caught his attention. He turned in time to see a dark head of hair emerging from the surf. He turned to watch and he could have sworn he felt his heart stop when the face appeared. The man's face looked as if it could have been carved from stone, all sharp angles and planes, making him look like a Greek God of Myth. It took all he had in him not to drool.

And then the rest of the man came into view.

Broad shouldered and muscular, bronzed dark from being in the constant sunshine, Draco watched the man shake the water from his hair and allowing it to blow free in the summer breeze. Draco felt a tightness in his groin as his eyes boldly raked the body before him. If he tried hard enough, Draco could almost imagine the man to be someone familiar...someone he hadn't thought about in years.

He derailed that train of thought before it could develop steam. Best not to dwell on 'what ifs', as his father liked to tell him.

The man turned then and their eyes met, startling blue to swirling gray. And Draco was lost.

They met frequently while Draco was there, and he always went back when he could get away from his work.

And now, here he was again, two years later...sitting in one of their favorite restaurants, awaiting Vasili's arrival. Draco had planned this dinner for weeks, making many Floo calls and setting everything up. He had decided he wanted to ask Vasili to marry him, making their commitment to one another a life-long thing. He was so confident that Vasili would say yes that he had blocked out anything that would likely to occur if Vasili said no.

He took the black velvet ring box from his pocket and opened it. The plain platinum band winked back at him and he slowly withdrew it. He flipped it sideways to read the inscription he had engraved inside: My Whole Heart For My Whole Life

Draco smiled wistfully, placing the ring back into its velvet cage before returning it to his pocket. He glanced at his watch, noting it was near the time he had requested Vasili to meet him.

He would bide his time.

- - -

Draco stared at the note in his hand for what seemed like the thousandth time, hardly daring to believe the waiter had brought it to him. He felt hollowed out and numb, like someone had taken a blunt spoon and carved a hole in his chest where his heart used to be. Horrified, tears began to blur his vision and it became hard to breathe. Inhaling deeply, determined not to fall apart in a public setting, he got to his feet, tossing a bunch of money blindly at the table. In his haste to leave, he didn't remember leaving the crumpled note behind, but he would remember the words for as long as he was alive.

Draco

I wish I could love you as I know you love me, but that is something I am unable to do. I am sorry. But I've had this sense that there are too many things unresolved in your past that make me believe we have a future. Resolve them, and if then, you still feel for me this love you have then I will be waiting with open arms.

Yours,
Vasili

To be continued...

REWRITE A Time of Promises Chapter 3

2009-01-25T07:18:47Z

Hey all. This is a rewrite of Chapter 3...I realized I'd left out a lot of details and made some serious plot holes in the previous version. I had the rewrite done a couple of weeks ago and forgot about it until now. So, enjoy. Btw...this rewrite is longer than the original.

Title: A Time of Promises
Author: Lady B
Pairing: Do I really need to say?
Genre(s): AU Romance
Rating(s): PG and up. I'll warn you if smut ensues.
Summary: One was a cop who'd seen too much death and destruction in his career. The other had lost every memory he'd ever had. In the remote snowcapped mountains of Montana, USA, they will both find the strength to go on, and maybe even find that one thing they'd been missing...each other.
Challenge: Part of my Insanejournal's 50harlequins table. Prompt #22 – Cop & Amnesiac Accident Victim.
Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and plots from the Harry Potterverse belong to JK Rowling and various publishing companies and movie studios. I am not making any money from this. I am simply doing this for the fun of it. Any plot devices and original characters belong to me alone and are simply a figment of my imagination.
Author's Note: This is my third annual HP Christmas story. Probably won't be done until after Christmas, but I'll give it a shot.

- - -

Chapter 3

He woke slowly, feeling warmer than he had in some time. He opened his eyes slowly, blinking against the harsh light of the sun shining through the window. Once his eyes adjusted, he took in his surroundings. The walls were wood, midway between light and dark burgundy in color. The furniture was made of the same, decorated in all different shades of brown. He lay back against the pillows, rubbing his eyes as he tried to recall how he came to be here. The only thing he could remember were bright green eyes and being cold. He ran his fingers through his hair, wincing when they came upon a large knot near the base of his skull.

Footsteps echoed in the hall beyond and he tensed. The door opened and another male stepped into the room, holding a steaming mug of something. The odor wafted toward him and he caught the scent of coffee. He looked up into the same bright green eyes he'd seen before.

"You're awake! How are you feeling?" the man asked, setting the mug on the side table.

"Fine, I think." he answered.

"Any lingering coldness, aches or pains?"

"I'm warm for the first time in ages. I have a bit of a bump back here though." he admitted, pointing to the back of his head. The man sat on the bed and gently ran his fingers along the back of his head. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, taking in the scent of wood, pine, coffee and the man in front of him. He was surprised to feel a curl of desire low in his gut.

"That is quite a bump indeed. I'll get you something for it in a moment. Can you tell me what happened? How did you end up out there?"

He opened his mouth to answer and frowned in thought. Trying as hard as he could, he couldn't recall how he ended up this way.

He shook his head.

"I can't remember."

"Can you tell me your name? I can call the local sheriff and see if anyone's reported you missing."

For some reason, he knew that much, "Draco. My name's Draco."

"Pleasure to meet you, Draco. I'm Harry." Harry smiled. Draco felt that desire begin to run deeper as he was witness to Harry's bright smile.

"Harry." he mumbled to himself, liking the way the name rolled off his lips.

"Are you hungry? I was just getting ready to make some breakfast."

In response, Draco's stomach growled loudly. Harry laughed loud and long, causing Draco to blush to the tips of his ears.

"I'll take that as a yes!" Harry chuckled. "The bathroom is across the hall, and there are some extra clothes that may fit you in that trunk at the foot of the bed. After breakfast, we'll head into town and see the sheriff and get you some extras." Harry stood and headed for the door.

"Thank you, Harry, for helping me. I don't mean to be a bother." Harry stared at him for some time.

"You're no bother. I don't mind." Harry smiled at him before leaving the room. Draco flopped back, wincing when a headache bloomed at the action. He sat up to get his coffee, noticing two aspirin resting next to the cup. He silently thanked Harry again as he took them before getting out of bed and heading for the shower.

- - -

He felt ready to return to civilization as he made his way to the kitchen. Harry was just setting a plate of eggs on the table, and he smiled when he saw Draco.

"You look better." Harry smiled, taking in the freshly washed blond hair and flushed skin. He caught a whiff of his own soap and had to resist the urge to pull the man close and sniff him.

Now where had that thought come from?

"I feel better. Thank you for the clothes, they fit real well." He was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a blue chambray shirt. His feet were bare, and Harry couldn't help but stare at the toes peeking out from under the hem. He gulped.

"You're welcome." he mumbled. Draco sat down at the table as Harry turned back to the stove to grab the carafe of coffee. He poured his companion a cup before seating himself. They dished up their plates and began to eat in comfortable silence.

Harry wondered why that was.

"I checked your clothes last night after you fell asleep." he stated some moments later.

"Oh?" Draco looked up at him.

"I was hoping to find some identification or some indication of who you are. There was nothing."

"Damn."

"Don't get discouraged just yet. Like I told you earlier, we'll go into town and see the sheriff."

"Is it possible that I could have lost my wallet somewhere out there?" Draco asked, waving a hand at the living room window. Harry looked out at the snow-covered mountains and nodded in agreement.

"Considering that the road is at least a mile or two from here, it is quite possible. And then there's the bump on your head. How's that feeling?"

"A little better. The aspirin you left helped."

"Good. I can't help but feel someone was trying to harm you."

"Why?"

"That's something you need to try and remember. Maybe after we talk to the sheriff, we'll go and see a doctor friend of mine."

"Why are you helping me?" Draco suddenly asked. Harry stared him straight in the eye and told him the truth.

"Because I want to. No other reason." Draco looked down at his hands and blushed.

"Thanks, Harry."

"You're welcome. Now eat your breakfast before it gets cold." Harry admonished.

"Yes, mother." Draco grinned.

- - -

After they had eaten, Harry loaned Draco his warmest coat, boots and gloves before they set out. They had to hike a ways to the truck that was parked in the barn.

"Why is the barn so far away from the cabin?" Draco wondered.

"When my dad had this place built, he thought it was a good idea to build it away from the main house in case either place caught fire. This way the embers and flames wouldn't travel to the other structure preventing the loss of both."

"Sound idea. Will I get to meet your parents?"

"No." Harry replied, tone sharp. Draco's eyes widened.

"Oh." he whispered. The remainder of their walk was done in silence.

It was while they were driving toward town that Harry spoke again.

"I'm sorry I snapped at you. I really don't know you and you were just being kind."

"I think I understand." Draco replied.

"No, you don't. See, my parents...were murdered when I was fifteen months old. A guy broke into the house, trying to steal family heirlooms. My dad, who was a police detective, heard him and tried to stop him but he was stabbed in the heart. He died instantly. My mom's only thought was protecting me, but the guy didn't want any witnesses. He...raped her before he killed her. He came at me, but I wouldn't keep still and his hand was wet with their blood. The knife slipped and cut me over my eye. That's how I got the scar you see." He briefly looked at Draco to show him the lightning bolt-shaped scar over his right eye before returning his attention to the road.

"My God!" Draco exclaimed.

"A neighbor called the cops when he heard sounds of breaking glass and the shouting. The thief heard them coming, and jumped out of the window. I ended up staying with my mom's sister and her husband for a while."

"At least they cared enough to take you in."

"Are you kidding me?" Harry snorted. "The state forced them to take me in since they were my only living relatives. They treated me like dirt. My aunt and uncle wouldn't spit on me if I were on fire. And don't get me started on my cousin. We loathed one another. CPS was called when my physical education teacher noticed some severe bruises on my neck, arms and back during a routine school exam. I was removed from their care when I was six. An old friend of my dad's from his cop days took me in and raised me. It was because of him that I decided to be a cop like my dad. It was the best decision I ever made."

"If it's any consolation, I think your parents would be proud of you now."

"Thanks." Harry smiled.

They pulled up in front of the sheriff's office and headed inside. A man with dark red hair was sitting behind the desk, his feet propped up and his hands behind his head, staring out the window.

"I see police work is still as riveting as ever around here." Harry chuckled. The man started, his feet leaving the desk in a rush. Before he could correct himself, he and the chair he was sitting in fell back and they could hear the thud when he hit the floor.

"Ow!" came a voice on the floor. Chuckling, Harry ran over to help him up.

"Sorry." he snickered.

"It's your fault." the man grumbled as he got to his feet. The man finally noticed who was standing before him and he broke out into a huge grin. "Harry!"

Harry was pulled into an exuberant hug that nearly cut off his breath.

"It's good to see you too, Bill."

"Charlie! Harry's here!" Bill shouted, "When did you get here? Why are you here? And how long are you staying? Have you been down to the diner yet? Mom will kill you if you don't stop in and say hi!"

"Yesterday. Forced vacation. Don't know how long. She and your dad met me when I came up and I had dinner there last night. Saw Ron and Hermione as well." Harry answered.

"Oh, good!" Bill grinned as a second red-haired man came out of the back room.

"Harry! Good to see you!" Charlie grinned as he and Harry hugged.

"Good to see you, too, Charlie."

"How's our sister and that man she married?" he asked, sitting down.

"Doing wonderful. Ginny looks radiant, by the way."

"Pregnancy agreeing with our sis, is it?" Bill grinned, sitting on the edge of his desk.

"It sure is." Harry chuckled.

"So what's this about a forced vacation?" Charlie wondered. Harry sighed.

"Drug bust gone bad. My partner was killed and I was shot. After I was released from the hospital, my head wasn't right so Kingsley told me to take a leave of absence."

"Oh, Harry. I'm so sorry." Bill sighed.

"Thanks." Harry murmured. Charlie noticed Draco standing by the door.

"Who's your friend?" he asked. Harry suddenly remembered the reason why he'd come here and pulled Draco forward, explaining to his friends what happened. Charlie started taking notes and Bill moved to his computer to do some searches.

"Well, Draco. There's no record of a missing persons report with your description. Is it possible that someone wants to keep that information silent?" Bill wondered.

"If there was, I wish I could remember why." Draco sighed. Bill clapped him on the back, nearly knocking him over in his exuberance.

"Don't worry about a thing, Draco. My brother and I will do some investigating and when he hear something, we'll let you know first thing."

"Why are you helping me?" Draco wondered.

"Harry considers you a friend. Any friend of Harry's is a friend of ours."

"But I've only known him less than a day!"

"So?" Harry questioned. "I told you I'd help you in any way I could. And I meant it. That makes you a friend."

"Thank you."

"I'm worried about that amnesia thing." Charlie stated.

"I'm taking him to see Poppy after we do a little shopping." Harry replied.

"Draco, you'll love Poppy. She's the best in her field. And she makes a mean apple pie when she sets her mind to it." Bill praised.

"I'll take your word for it. Thank you again for helping me."

"It's what we do." Charlie replied.

"Harry, Mom's planning a family dinner this weekend. You know she's going to want you there. And bring Draco with you." Bill told them.

"We'll be there." Harry agreed before Draco could decline.

To be continued...

“Love me, Harry.” Draco whispered in his ear.

*Drabble* Death By Chocolate (Trio)

*New* (tentative title) Rogue of the Rune Heart (original)

*Fic Rec* You Had Me From... (H/D) by La Nuit

*Original* Closer Than Yesterday

*Rec* Draco The Cowardly Lion by Lomonaaeren (Harry/Draco)

*New* Three Men And A Harry

*Update* Their Fathers Daughters Chapter 2 (H/S)

*Update* Their Fathers Daughters - Chapter 1

*New* Their Fathers Daughters (Harry/Severus)

*Update* Just A Girl, Chapter 11

*Drabble Rec* Welsh Hills (H/S) by celandineb

*Fic Rec* Broken Wings (H/S)

*Fic Rec* Harry's First Detention and Harry's New Home by kbinnz