InsaneJournal

Greenhouse Effect by Draconic_girl

It was only a month to the leaving feast but for Neville it felt like an eternity. This year had passed agonizingly slow for the Herbology professor, and the cause for this time slowing effect was: a boy, a beautiful boy, whose appearance had proven to be quite distracting. Actually, Neville mused, he looks even better than his brother; in fact he looked much more like… Like his father. He startled when he realized were his thoughts had led him. How could he even think of the boy like this? He was old enough to be his father. He grimaced; in fact he was one day older than the father. Congrats Neville, he thought moodily, you finally become a complete and utter pervert.

He shook his head to clear out the images of a young Harry Potter and the similarities in their appearance. Neville knew it was not right. But he wanted the boy nevertheless. He wanted him more than he had ever wanted anyone else. The boy was everywhere he looked; his face hunted him in his dreams. The scent of him drove him wild, and he had to stop himself from reaching out to grab him, when he stood next to him in the green house, as he explained the assignment to his class.

Neville didn’t know what it was that made him unable to forget the eager look on the boy’s face or the way his eyes would sparkle when he looked at him. He had never seen someone so young with so much passion. So much passion for… learning? Plants? He didn’t really know. But then again, Albus had always been a special boy. And that didn’t change when he started at Hogwarts.

Oh, how he yearned to be close to him! To touch him, to hold him, to kiss those innocent rosy lips.

Merlin, listen to me, going on about how special he is, I sound like a lovesick second year, and we definitely don’t need more of them, he thought as he let his gaze pass the Hufflepuff table, where the girls were predictably enough giving him the eye. That temporarily cleared away the he shuddered the lovesick thoughts. But he couldn’t stop the involuntarily motion of his head. He had to know if the boy had already arrived. His face darkened as he saw the boy enter the hall, for he did not come alone. Scorpius had his arm around Albus and they were both laughing like mad. And as if Scorpius had known Neville was watching him, he threw Neville a victorious smile, as if to say “I had him first”.

Scorpius was far too observant for Neville’s liking.

Neville was fuming, and he silently considered his options, and, of course, what excuse he would give to Scorpius for landing him in detention. It was perhaps best if he assigned the detention in class while others were present, as not to raise undue suspicion. It was a well known fact that plants were not part of Scorpius expertise. Though, Neville had to admit that he was not being rational when it came to Scorpius Malfoy, and it had nothing to do with the fact that he was a Malfoy. If he was completely honest, it was just a question of jealousy; Scorpius was always close nearby Albus. They were housemates and roommates so it was understandable, yet Neville knew that Scorpius wanted more than simple friendship from Albus. But the question was of course, what did Albus want? And how could Neville ever think of approaching Albus? The son of his best friend? His headache worsened and the sounds coming from the numerous dining students definitely did nothing to improve how he felt, nor did the sight of Albus and Scorpius leaning against each other, sharing conspiratorial grins. And so it was that Neville spent his time at the high table, alternatively scowling or grinning evilly.

Headmistress McGonagall shook her head, surely she was imagining things. Her well mannered Herbology professor could not very well be channelling his former Potions professor. But no, judging by his facial expression they very well could have been twins. Had the world come to an end and no one had bothered to inform Minerva? Neville was scowling at the students and focusing in particular...on Scorpius Malfoy. She pursed her lips in disapproval; surely Neville was not suddenly going to retaliate for past hurts on the son of his childhood tormentor. She would have to keep closer watch on him it seemed, for she did not like the look in his eyes.
**********
”He’s gorgeous, isn’t he? ” Scorpio asked with a grin.

”Yes, yes he is.” Neville answered distractedly, before startling badly, realizing what he’d just revealed to his student.

“I’m sure Harry would like to hear what you think of his son…I’m sure he’d be happy to hear you want to ravish his underage son.” Scorpio asked with a smirk. Damn it, Al was his and he wasn’t going to share him with a horny Professor… Not even if said Professor was gorgeous.

“What makes you think he would believe you?”

“Simple, I have proof and then some.” Scorpio waggled his eyebrows suggestively. “Do you remember Ted Tonks… I’m sure you do…He liked getting private tutoring, kinky sod… indeed.”

Something evil glinted in Neville’s eyes, as he noticed everyone was staring at them, thankfully Scorpius had spoken softly, but the class was still regarding the pair with suspicion. He knew he had the perfect opportunity now: ”Detention Mr. Malfoy, for disrupting class.”
**********
Neville sighed as he sat down on his couch, he was glad the day was over. After the incident with Scorpius he had decided not to resume his regular tutoring sessions with Al. Al had been a bit upset, but he knew that Neville was busy during the last few weeks of the school year, and thankfully Al did not seem to have noticed anything suspicious about Neville’s behaviour.

The Floo flared, Harry’s head appeared in the fireplace. Neville called out a good evening.

“Evening Nev, do you mind if I come over?” There was something anxious about his words. Neville just nodded and it was enough, no words were needed between them, and a moment later Harry stumbled out of the Floo.

Neville had fetched a bottle of Firewhiskey and he offered Harry a glass. Harry drank it all, and Neville poured him another shot, raising his eyebrows in question. But Harry just stared forward into the fire. After a moment’s silence Neville’s curiosity finally got the best of him.
“Everything ok with Gin, Har?”

“Yeah, sure,” Harry answered his expression strained. “Just a couple bumps in the road.”

“Arguments that ended with you turning the house upside down? “ Neville asked.

“Not exactly,” Harry said, his mood visibly darkening.

“Did you screw up again, like last year when you decided to invite...”

“No, nothing like that,” Harry interrupted him quickly obviously not wanting to hear about his previous blunders. “Let me emphasise the fact that I did NOTHING. Well, expect for an unannounced visit to my ‘lovely’ wife’s workplace. Unfortunately she was ‘otherwise’ occupied.” Harry grimaced in remembrance.

“She... She what? Cheated on you? “At the answering nod, Neville continued. “With whom?”

“That young Quidditch player. She coached him to take her old place in the team, and apparently one thing lead to another...” Harry shook his head as to clear away the images of Ginny and her lover. “Anyway, “he continued gloomily, “it’s not as if I can blame her. It’s not as if I am the perfect husband either she has needs I can no longer fulfil.” Harry gave Neville a crooked smile. “Nor do I want to anymore.”

“So what’s with this vacation thing?”

“Oh, Malfoy is still feeling guilty, so he asked if I wanted to spend part of my vacation at his family estate in France. And well, I just want to get away for awhile. The press will probably go wild once the divorce becomes public and Ginny is seen together with her new boy-toy, they’re going on a holiday too. And James is spending his summer, working at Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes. George is hoping that James will continue to work with him after his graduation. Says the boy is a genius when it comes to pranking. I rather think he reminds him of Fred. Anyway, Lily is staying with Molly and Arthur. And Albus, well, he doesn’t want to stay there, says he’s too old to spend his summer hols with his grandparents. He’s probably right, Molly still treats him like he’s four years old or such. I know he is only fourteen, but he’s always been pretty mature for his age, probably because he isn’t as spoiled as Lily is. I can’t believe he will be doing his OWLs next year. I did ask if he wanted to come along with me to France, but he said it would be best if I had some time for myself and that I didn’t need to have him around to worry about. Where the heck did he come up with these mature thoughts? Certainly not me, I’ve never been good at that stuff.” Harry smiled crookedly. “Must say I couldn’t quite believe my ears when he first told me to go alone. I just thought he wanted to stay with Scorpius and goodness knows what they would be up to. Well that was until he suggested that he could stay with...”

Neville dreaded to hear where the conversation was heading to, he took a deep breath, trying to brace himself for the question that was surely coming to come out of Harry’s mouth next.

“You, so I was hoping you would agree to let him stay at least for while. I know you usually only take NEWT-level students as summer assistants, but I was hoping you would make an exception for him.”

“I couldn’t possibly...” Neville said only thinking on the growing temptation towards the young boy.

“Frankly, I don’t see what the problem is; you have made exceptions before haven’t you?”

“Yeah but Al is...”

“Extremely talented? I know he’s young, but I think he would benefit from this arrangement. Plus, I really need your help with this, I promised him he wouldn’t have to stay with his grandparents and he doesn’t want to stay with Ginny once she gets home. And when he mentioned you I realised he’s always been comfortable in your presence, and I hoped that he could at least stay with you until I get back, and then we could see if he still wanted to work with you. ”

“He wants to work with me?” Neville asked to confirm what he’d just heard.

“Yeah, I told you before that it was him who suggested I would ask you.” Harry looked at Neville, pleadingly.

And Neville, being the good friend that he was, could never refuse the honest plea in Harry’s eyes. The emerald eyes sparkled with hope, and Neville couldn’t help thinking of Albus, who had inherited his father’s eyes. His thoughts inevitably went to a completely different direction, like how Albus would look when he was flushed with passion. He shook his head; he couldn’t think of that, not with Harry present. He had to practice self-restraint if he was going through with this, and he knew he would do it. He couldn’t deny his friend, not without raising suspicion. And to be completely honest, he really wanted to be close to Albus. Even if he’d previously been relieved by the thought that he wouldn’t have to be face boy each day, he was quite eager to interact with the boy away from the prying eyes of the students and the faculty.

“Sure, why not. I know he would enjoy working on some experimental projects that I will carry out this summer. And I am sure he will enjoy the fact that I have more time to answer his questions.” Neville and Harry shared a laugh at that, both knowing that Albus was quite inquisitive at times.

“You’re a good friend, Nev,” Harry said, slapping Neville lightly on the shoulder. “And I know you will be taking good care of my boy.”
**********
Al had been working with Neville for a week now. He had settled in nicely and he thrived on the attention he got from Neville. The attention he got from Neville was a nice change from how he usually spent his summer hols, puttering around in the garden. His father occasionally joining him, and sometimes Lily or James joined him too, never Ginny though. To be honest he had quite liked having the garden to himself, he spent most of his time there, working with the plants or doing something else entirely. Sometimes he would just lie down in the grass and look up at the sky, and sometimes when Scorpius was visiting they would hide out in the garden, talking or kissing. He smiled when he remembered the first time they had spent the night in the garden, he had lost his virginity that night.
From that memory his thoughts turned to Scorpius words at the leaving feast. “You know he fancies you.” He had sounded so jealous when he said it, but surely it couldn’t be. Why would Neville fancy him? But, after spending time alone with Neville, he had to concede that there might be some truth to Scorpius words. The question was of course, what would Al do with the information he had?

When he turned around, to ask Neville about his next task, he was surprised to see that Nev had left. I must have very deep in thought, Al mused when he realised he hadn’t heard Nev’s departure. He wandered off to Nev’s office.
**********
Neville watched his assistant for the summer scurry around the greenhouse, sweating in the heat, wearing only a pair of cut-off jeans. He silently cursed the fact that the boy was only 14, and top of this he was also his best friend’s son. Why had he agreed to take the boy over for the summer? Oh yes, he couldn’t say no to Harry. But by now his resolve was crumbling, the temptation to bend Al over one of the work benches and plunder his virgin ass grew as each day passed. Watching him stretch and bend while he was working had proven to be so distracting that he had in fact destroyed a bunch of plant cuttings. Oh damn, he missed his previous apprentices… Merlin knew they had been so eager to please, and he had had no qualms with approaching the subject of sex.

Frustrated he left the greenhouse and headed to his office. When he had closed the door behind him, casually let one of his hands slip into his pants and close around his rock hard prick. From his one way window, he watched Al bending over to re-pot the mandrake plants, he moaned in relief when he released his aching cock from the confinements of his jeans. He moved his hand in time with Al’s movements and closed his eyes, picturing the boy on his knees in front of him, sucking his prick…The rosy mouth closing around his prick, struggling to take all of him in…As he neared orgasm he wondered if Al would be better than the Wood boy. Neville’s eyes closed, so he didn’t notice that Al left the greenhouse in search for him
**********
Al gaped in surprise when he entered Nev’s office. “So, Scorpius was right. You do want me.” Shock was apparent in his voice. He never once in a million year thought that Scorpius had been serious.
Neville saw no point in disagreeing, so he just nodded his head warily, well aware of the fact that he’d literally been caught with his pants down.

“And I thought he was just messing with me, again, like that time when he told me that...Oh never mind,” Al said, blushing slightly, when he realised his gaze had lingered on Neville’s crotch. He blushed even more when he felt himself react to the delectable sight in front of him. He licked his lips in anticipation maybe his summer could become even better.

“I think not. He even cornered me and caught me off guard, so I proved his suspicions right then and there. And then he told me I should leave you alone.”

“Oh,” Al said, “He forgot to mention that.”

“Oh, did he now?” Neville replied, sarcastically, “I wonder why?”

“Though,” Al said, leaning closer to Neville, “he didn’t forbid me to approach you”. He slipped into Neville’s lap and kissed him on the lips, hungrily.

“We shouldn’t...” Neville groaned, as he felt the boy squirm on his lap.

“Why not?” Al moaned and thrust his denim covered erection against Neville’s reawakening cock.

“It’s not right. I...” he gasped, “could be your father...ummph... I mean I am old enough to be your father. Why should you want an old man like me touching you...?”

“Oh, kinky...do you want me to call you daddy?” Al said his eyes sparkling again. He was obviously amused by Neville’s doubts and his struggles to express them. Gods he was so stubborn, and acting like a noble Gryffindor, once again. Al was so deep in thought that he was surprised to find himself on the floor as Neville roughly pushed him off his lap.
Al waited on the floor as Neville started pacing. Finally he spoke.

“Merlin, what have I gotten myself into?” He ignored the muffled, “Unfortunately nothing.” that Al whispered out, as he sat on the floor pouting, and looking absolutely edible. Wait. Focus. Neville! “Albus, did you just hear a word I said?”

“Loud and clear,” Al replied dryly.

“So?”

“So what? Why shouldn’t we both get what we want? What the fuck why shouldn’t I get what I want for once...,” Al said broodingly.

“What?”

“It’s not like my life’s always been sunshine and roses. In fact ever since I was sorted into Slytherin my mother has made it very clear that I am the black sheep of the family. Of course she doesn’t let dad see her behave any differently towards me, and honestly, I don’t want to cause dad any more pain, by telling how mum behaves. And here, well, I try to stay out of anything that would make it seem like I was up to no good. Thank Merlin that I have Scorpius. He’s been my rock and cliff since first year, he knows what it is like when...”Al paused, not quite knowing how to phrase it, eventually he just said, “you aren’t like everyone else.”

“Does your mum know that you’re gay?”

“Oh, does she? Most certainly, she walked in on me and Scorpius, shagging, and that time I bottomed, so she has all the more reason to dislike the Malfoys, now that their son has corrupted me,” Al said rolling his eyes. “And she still bitches to dad about that incident with Draco.” he added quietly. Not knowing if Neville knew what he was referring to.
Neville nodded, to signal that he knew what Al was talking about. He sighed, though the war had ended a long time ago, life was not that much easier. There were so many choices ahead, and consequences. All his previous exploits had been over the age of consent when he took things further. But...Al was different. Why, he thought, why not take comfort in the fact that he was not alone in his misery. Al obviously wouldn’t mind his advances, but he also wanted him to know that he would be there for him even if they didn’t do anything else. Merlin, it was much simpler before, when it was all about sex. These feelings just brought back past hurts. He could still recall that it had felt like his lungs were collapsing as he saw who it had been that was lying in a pool of blood. You couldn’t mistake the blond hair and the petite body, it was him alright. Though over twenty years had passed since that day, he never forgot it, nor the pain he had felt.

He turned to Al. He needed him to know that he would not abandon him even if they did not further their relationship. He gazed deep into the green eyes that were watching him.
“I promise that you will always be welcome here.”

“Now can we shag?”

“I’m serious; I don’t want to hurt you.”

“So was I, and you won’t hurt me. Dad would kill you if you did,” Al said, grinning mischievously at Neville.
Neville sighed, but couldn’t help smiling at the look on Al’s face. He leaned closer to the boy.

“Ok, here’s the deal: Don’t mention your dad anymore and I will shag you.”

“Fine by me. Now let’s go!” Al said and started pulling Neville out of the greenhouse.
Neville laughed at the boy’s enthusiasm, and followed the bouncing boy.

“Where are you taking me?”

“Shouldn’t I be the one asking that question?”
**********
“Hmm... You’re not a virgin, are you?” Neville murmured as he circled Al’s opening with his fingers.

“No...” Al shivered as he felt Neville’s breath at his entrance. “I’ve gone all the way with Scorpio. But I don’t bottom that often.”

“Hmm... We shall see what we can do to change that, hmm?” Neville murmured and licked his lips in anticipation. He moved up and dropped teasing kisses all over Al’s torso, slowly trailing back down again.

Al moaned, his eyes turning smouldering as he felt Neville move back down to where he had started. He couldn’t take the waiting anymore. “Please,” he whimpered, “want you in me.” He moaned wantonly as Neville circled his opening, and then finally plunged deeper with his tongue. Al moaned and thrust his hips in hope of driving Neville deeper. Neville chuckled, and reached for the lube. He then proceeded to make sure Al was ready for him. At last he was satisfied with his work; Al was incoherent with lust when Neville finally directed his erect cock into the quivering opening. After that there were no thoughts only sensations, as he pounded Al against the mattress.
**********
“I see you have been studying with Nev,” James said, giving Albus a meaningful look. “I guess I don’t need to ask why you look so flushed.”

“You know nothing, James!” Albus said moodily.

“Oh, but I do,” he purred into Albus’ ear, “Do you think you are the only one who has been tutored by him? Hmm ... So innocent,” he said, caressing Albus face gently, “You’re sure you are a Slytherin?”

“Shut up, and get your hands off me!” Albus exclaimed slapping away James’ hand. He had enough of his older brother’s teasing. Why did he always have to bring up the house issue?

He stormed out of the door before James could say anything else. James watched him go, pensively; he did not look forward to see how their father would react, once he found out what else Neville had been teaching his son. He sighed; his father was under enough stress as it was, what with the divorce finally becoming official. It was probably best if he didn’t say anything, not yet anyway. His little brother did look happy, for once, he did not resemble his other namesake as much as he had during his first years at Hogwarts. James just hoped Neville wouldn’t do anything to hurt Al, but at the same time, he realised that pain was inevitable. Either Neville would break off their relationship or they would get caught, and who knew what would happen then.
**********
“Is it true?” Albus demanded.

“What?” Neville asked distractedly, for once engrossed in his work only.

“That all the boys you have tutored have gotten the same treatment as I?”

At that Neville looked up, he sighed heavily, he had known this would come up. It had only been a matter of time before someone informed Albus of his previous exploitations.

“In some cases yes, but... never on this level. Maybe...” he stopped for a moment, clearing his throat, but nothing could clear away the wistful look from his eyes, nor the pain. “But I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.”

“How could you... “Albus didn’t know how to continue, taken aback by Neville’s answer. There was just so much that he didn’t know about Neville, not yet anyway. He was unable from blurting out the hurt reaction to Neville’s confession. “Liar.” The word slipped out.

“Look, I never said you that you were my first. I have never lied to you.” He looked straight into Al’s eyes, and stated determinedly. “And I never will. I couldn’t do that you; I have seen how you’ve been treated and how you reacted to your parents’ quarrels. I have wanted to reach out for you. But I couldn’t, not after I realised exactly why I wanted to be near you. I just couldn’t do that to Harry and then you came here... And I just couldn’t resist you... “

“Oh Nev,” Al said, and hugged him tightly, “I know, I just wished you had told me about the others. So I wouldn’t have had to hear it from James of all people.”

“I know, but I didn’t know how to tell you. I told you, I don’t want to see you hurt.” Neville murmured, as he pulled Al closer, kissing him with a passion.
**********
“What are you doing?”

“Nothing,” came the muffled reply, from behind the curtains.

Al took a step closer to the bed, and parted the curtains, he was greeted by a red faced Neville, “Are you crying Nev?”

“None of your business,” Neville said and turned his back to the boy, his hands shaking as he moved the photos, so he wouldn’t crush them. Tears welled up again and he was shaking now, not just his hands, but his entire body shook with emotion. The photos lay on his pillow now, reminders of a happy time, they were pictures of him and Colin. Colin, who had been so enthusiastic to teach him all about photographing, insisting that it would be a useful skill, a way for Neville to catalogue his plants. Neville had laughed then, and said that he did not need to learn for he had Colin...The photo session had then quickly escalated into a snogging session, and then some.

Tears ran freely down his cheeks now, he was tired of keeping them inside, no amount of frantic blinking could stop them. Something had broken inside of him. He did not notice the bed dip as Al sat down next to him, but he did feel when Al laid his hand on his shoulder, and his other hand gently stroked his hair. Neville let his emotions run free, he did not protest when Al pulled his head into his lap. Al looked at the pictures, a blond boy with a mischievous grin, eyes shining with life as he shamelessly flirted with a teenaged Neville. So this was the boy, who still haunted Neville.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

Neville shook his head. Definitely not. Was it not enough that he was making a fool of himself, crying like a baby in the arms of his student. Damn it he was not supposed to be weak.

“Have you ever talked with anyone about him?”

Neville shook his head again.

“You can talk to me,” Al said desperately, “You should have talked to someone, a long time ago. I thought you and dad were friends. You could have spoken with him. “

“He had his own problems to deal with...and I just...I wouldn’t have known what to say. I don’t think he knew about my relationship to Colin.”

“Please.” Al pleaded. “I am here now, and you have listened to my story, it’s my turn to help now.” There was a determination in his eyes that almost made Nev smile, the fiery determination was such a familiar sight.

“Where should I start?” Nev said, wearily.

“Why today? What happened?”

“It’s his birthday today.”

“Oh, Nev.”

“And he never even saw his sixteenth birthday.” After that the words spilled out on their own volition and through it all Al held him.
**********
“You never had the chance to do this with him, did you,” Al asked as he cuddled closer to Neville.

“Oh, we managed to.” Nev smiled slightly in remembrance, “Not as often as we would have liked, but we had our moments, our time together was a safe haven for both of us.”

“You truly loved him.”

“Yeah, I did. To me he was special. Everyone else may have just seen this overexcited kid, who was prone to hero worship, but we both saw each other as we were, just boys. And we loved each other. I’m just sad we never had the chance to live together with no threat of Voldemort looming overhead. But most of all I am sad because he didn’t get the chance to live past sixteen. He deserved so much more than that...” And then he couldn’t say anything more. Tears clouded his vision and he cried for the second time in Al’s arms.

“Shh...” Al whispered as he cuddled closer to the sobbing man.
**********
Harry entered Neville’s rooms, he was surprised when he didn’t find him awake, even though it was almost noon. Surely Neville hadn’t forgotten that today was the day Harry returned from his travels? He proceeded to take a peek into the bedroom. What he saw shocked him to the centre of his being... His son ...Naked in his best friend’s bed, with an equally naked Neville enthusiastically thrusting his tongue into Al’s opening. Shocked he left the room and sat down on the couch, unable to comprehend the sight that had greeted him. Was this what Neville thought he had meant when he’d asked him to take good care of the boy? After awhile he fell asleep on the couch, the jet lag finally taking its toll on him.
**********
Laughing Neville and Al emerged from the bedroom, intending to take a bath together to clean up for Harry’s visit. Neville stopped short when he saw that Harry was in fact already there. Al collided with him, muttering out an “Oww.” Harry opened his eyes sleepily as he heard the noise. “Shit, it wasn’t a dream”, he muttered when he saw his son naked in his best friend’s arms.

“Harry, I ah...Yes.” Neville blushed and summoned clothes for him and Al. “You’re here already?”

“Obviously.”

“And you probably saw…”

“A lot more than I’d expected,” Harry replied dryly.

“I…” Neville stammered.

“What do you want me to say?”

“Honestly? I don’t know.” Neville said, sighing as he sat down next to Harry on the couch.

“You know as a responsible parent I should report you.”

“I know.”

“And you still went through with this?” Harry asked disbelievingly. “I mean is it worth it? Have you even thought about the consequences?”

“Yeah... I have, but I guess the hard-headed Gryffindor in me didn’t care about the rules anymore.”

“I can’t report you; you know that, don’t you?”

“Honestly, I did not know what to expect. I know we’ve been friends for a very long time, but there was nothing that could give me hints of how you’d react to this, especially because of the way you found out about us. ”

“I...”Harry turned away, his voice was slightly muffled when he spoke, “I could never do that to you. You’ve done so much for me, and I know you have gone through a lot.”

”You know, I honestly thought I could do it, that I had the strength to resist him. But I found that the time we spent together only made it harder for me because we became so close in every other way than I had previously imagined. He slowly wormed his way into my heart.” Neville smiled at that, but there was still a hint of grief in his eyes, and Harry sighed when he saw it. He had never known just how badly Neville had taken Colin’s death. He knew then and there that he would have a hard time if he wanted to separate his son from Neville, and quite frankly he did not have the heart to deny them happiness. But he also knew that if word leaked out about their relationship there would be trouble.
After a small pause Neville continued speaking, “And I guess he finally realised I wasn’t going to do anything about it, so one day he jumped me.” Neville was of course smart enough to mention just how and when that had happened. There were limits to what Harry could take and he knew that he was already walking on a thin line as it was, there was no need to add more fuel to the fire.

Harry let out a relieved sigh. “So he took the first step?”

“Yes. I did try to resist...but...he...I... “Neville took a deep breath, when he realised he was beginning to ramble. He looked Harry straight in the eyes when he next spoke. “I have not felt anything like that since Colin. In his company I don’t need to pretend, I can be me. You know,” Neville said with a hint of a smile, “he’s rather like his namesakes; you can’t hide anything from him. When he looks at you, you just know you have to speak up, you can’t fool him. It’s something about his eyes that halts every word that is untrue. When he found me crying over a pile of photos on Colin’s birthday, he never relented, he forced me to talk about it. After that there were no barriers between us. It was just us.”

Harry nodded; it was quite clear Neville was smitten with the boy.
“I... I need to speak with Albus before I can say anything more.”
**********
After his discussion with Albus, which confirmed Neville’s story, Harry walked back in the room, seating himself next to Neville on the couch. Gratefully he reached out for the drink Neville offered him. He took a deep sip before he began speaking. “Don’t do anything during the school year, I beg you. Minerva suspects already, and if she asks me about it, I don’t know what I’ll say. You can come and stay with us during Christmas. Please don’t risk your position and reputation because of him, I appreciate that he means that much to you , but frankly I don’t want to see either of you hurt because of some people have nothing to do but gossip. If you still want to be together with him after he has graduated, I’m fine with it. You’re both important to me, and I want to see you happy. I haven’t seen you like this since Colin first snuck into our dorm room.”

“You knew?”

“Yes.”

“And you never said anything.”

“I figured you’d tell me or us when you were ready. And, well, you know I hate when people question me all the time so I thought I’d show you some consideration. Merlin knows Hermione never let anything slide by.”

“You really are a good friend.”

“If you say so,” Harry said, giving Neville a weak smile.

“But you are! You’ve always had faith in me, even when I did not. And now I’ve betrayed your trust.”

“What has been done cannot be undone; all we can do is deal with the consequences.”

“Merlin, Harry.” Neville looked at him strangely. “When did you become so...philosophical?”

“That’s what Draco told me when he found me, brooding, in the garden. Told me I should stop wallowing in the past and get on with life. Surely I had better things to do than sit and brood in his garden.” Harry sneered and succeeded in doing a fair impression of Draco.

Neville began laughing at that, and soon Harry joined him, the tension melted away. They had reached an understanding, and now they were just two old friends, having a good time.
**********
“Hide me…I don’t want to leave you.”

“I know, but whatever happens,” Here Neville looked serious. “At least we had this summer. We’re lucky you know because no one else caught us. Or at least I don’t think they did, well except for James, but he didn’t see anything.”

“Yeah, I know,” Al said.

“It’s hard, I agree. But I think your father’s reaction was rather milder than I thought it would be, considering how he found out about us.”

“Yeah,” Al said, now smiling at Neville, “I thought he would have blown up something, like he usually does, but maybe he’s finally grown up.” Here they both laughed, but silently they agreed. Harry had changed; perhaps the divorce was exactly what he’d needed, considering the fact that he hadn’t snapped at either of them. Harry’s temper tantrums were a well kept secret among friends and family. No one knew what caused them and no one had been able to persuade Harry to talk about them, certainly not Ginny. Perhaps all he had needed was some freedom.

“I for one am very glad, he’s finally gotten hold of his temper,” Neville said, and kissed Al on the lips, gently.

“Me too,” Al replied, moulding his body to Neville’s body. He put his head on Neville’s shoulder, and murmured, “I just don’t think I can put up with being apart from you.”

“He didn’t say that we ought to be apart, just that we shouldn’t do anything too compromising.” Here Neville smirked, “And you did spend the whole summer helping me, so no one would question if you continued working with me, in the greenhouses of course. Probably shouldn’t invite you to my rooms anymore,” Neville said winking at Al, “don’t want Minerva to suddenly burst out from the Floo, at an inopportune moment. I guess I’ll have to make some adjustments to my room in the greenhouse. No Floo there...”

“I never thought I’d say this Nev, but I have to say it now: Merlin, you would have made a good Slytherin.”

“No,” Neville said smiling mischievously at Al, “I don’t think so. I think you’ve corrupted me.”
Their laughter echoed in the chamber, long after they had parted. Al heading home to stay with Harry for the remaining week of the summer hols, and Neville to the greenhouses...He had an office to alter.
**********
Epilogue – Graduation Day – Two Years Later

“You still want him.” Harry asked when the silence between them became too suffocating.

“I never stopped wanting him.” Scorpio said honestly, and when he saw Neville bend over and give Al a kiss on the lips. Their laughter echoed in the corridor, the sound hit him like a thousand Crucios. He could not stand it anymore. He gave Harry a strangled bye, and ran off towards the dungeons. And there, in the privacy of his room, he broke down crying. Everything around him reminded him off his time with Al.

Harry shook his head sadly as he watched the boy run off, and in a moment of Gryffindorish impulsiveness, he decided to follow the boy. To be honest, it hurt him to see the pain in Scorpius eyes. Scorpius had spent much time in their house and he’d become quite fond of the boy. When he reached the Slytherin Entrance he commanded the door to open in Parsletongue and then headed to Scorpius’ room, the one he had shared with Al, his beloved Al, Harry sighed. He heard the muffled sobs before he even reached the right door. Scorpius must have been rather upset because he hadn’t remembered to cast silencing charms. Harry knocked lightly on the door before entering.

“Go away.” Scorpius murmured.

Harry ignored the command and sat down on the bed, next to the crying boy. “Is there anything I can do?” he asked. It pained to see how hurt Scorpius had been when he realised Al had chosen Neville over him.

“Kiss me”, Scorpius murmured, and lifted his gaze to look at Harry.

“What?” Harry froze.

“Make it go away”, he said, “I don’t want to be alone.” He moved closer to Harry. “I know you want to... You never had a chance with my father. Why not take me instead?”Scorpio purred out seductively.

And Harry sat frozen in place as Scorpio began kissing him, first softly and then aggressively. Finally he gave in, meeting each kiss with fervour. Scorpius was nothing like the men and women he had been with since the divorce. No one had been able to share this desperate passion with him.
**********
"Are you sure about this?"

"Yeah, he looked so distraught when he saw us kissing, Nev. I never meant to hurt him. I thought he knew I loved you, and that he is my best friend. I have to talk to him."

They entered the Slytherin dorm, when they reached Scorpius door, they heard a loud moan. Al's hand froze on the door handle.

"Well it sounds like he found someone to comfort him already," Neville said, amusedly.

"Yeah, well it's best if we just let them be then. Let's go find my dad, so we can finally leave this place."
When they were at the end of the corridor, a loud moan and a shrieked, "Oh Harry" echoed in the air. This time both of them turned around in disbelief. Harry, they both mouthed, in shock.

"Oh well, let's just go. They are both rather preoccupied."

Out in the corridor they continued their discussion.

“Do you think he realised we did not abide by his rules?” Al asked Neville.

“Nah, probably not, and if he did he did not mention it. So were fine.” Neville smiled at the boy, his beloved boy. No matter how old he would get, he would always be Neville’s boy.

“Indeed, I would say we’re more than fine,” Al replied and moved closer to Neville. “Now, let’s head over to the greenhouse...Professor.” He purred into Neville’s ear, “You have a promise to keep.”

“Indeed,” Neville replied, “I have to warn you though, it might be hot in there, and you might have to lose those robes.”

“I know...”Al said smiling, “It’s the greenhouse effect...Unexpected rise of temperature, need to shed clothes, urge to mould my body against yours....” He would have continued his rambling, but Neville silenced him with a kiss, and then grabbed him by the arm, dragging him towards the nearest exit.

Their laughter echoed in the corridor. In the shadows Minerva watched them leave. So this was what it was all about. Never would she have thought that her precious Gryffindor Professor had been sleeping with a student. For two years, if what she heard was correct. Well, there was nothing she could do about it now, especially if Harry already knew about it. Wearily she headed towards her office; she had a portrait to question. So many things started making sense now, like the time Neville had blushed when a twinkly eyed Albus Dumbledore, had suggested that a copy of his portrait be placed in Neville’s office in the greenhouse. And how Neville had stuttered something about what an honour it would be. Honour, bah, the old coot probably wanted to amuse himself by watching them. Gryffindor boys, Minerva thought, have no sense of propriety, no matter how old they get. Even death doesn’t make them behave!

Somewhere, high above, a golden haired boy sat in the arms of a grey-eyed and dark haired man. They both laughed as they heard their former House of Head’s thoughts. “She’s right you know,” Colin said, as he leaned over to give Sirius a kiss, “We have no sense of propriety.”

“And we quite like it that way!” Sirius exclaimed. Then he muttered quite darkly, “Even if it means that Harry is shagging that Malfoy Boy.”

“Aww, give up the grudge. He’s gorgeous you know.”

“Is he now?!” Sirius growled.

“He’s got those gorgeous grey eyes, just like yours...” Colin trailed off; when he caught the passionate look Sirius was giving him.

“Hmm...Just like mine, acceptable answer. Now, I think it’s time for another prank. No rest for the wicked,” Sirius said grinning enthusiastically at his blond companion. “Or maybe we should just tell James and Snape what— I mean who Harry is doing...”

The End