The Life He Deserved

Chapter 23

Harry peeked his head up with a gasp from beneath the warm shores. They were currently enjoying themselves on the beach, taking advantage of their newly found location. Harry gave a satisfied sigh as he stared at the endless calm blue waters.

"Incoming!!" someone abruptly shouted from behind. Startled, Harry jerked his head back to see a giant lump of black fur flop into the waters. Harry yelped as a huge wave splashed him, knocking him beneath the water once again.

"Padfoot!" Harry whined once he stood up as Sirius barked triumphantly.

"That was mean," Harry complained jokingly. Sirius just smirked and swam back to the shore in human form. Remus watched in entertainment, safely on dry shore with a book in hand. He leaned back against the bench beneath the shade of many palm trees. Tom on the other hand was relaxing under the shining sun, his legs dangling off the dock. His eyes were closed with a small smile as he faced the bright rays. Harry saw this and swam over to him.

"Hey, Tom!" he called. When Tom turned his gaze, he immediately scooped up the salty beach water and splashed it at his face with flawless accuracy. Harry burst into a fit of giggles at the pissed and dripping face of the previously dry teen. His laughter however, faded when he saw the evil expression sent his way. Tom suddenly jumped into the water, effectively soaking Harry once again. It was Tom's turn to laugh as Harry pouted, his hair a dripping mess. Remus shook his head as he proceeded to read; he was surrounded by immature children. Sirius decided to prove this point, and once again jumped in, effectively splashing the two young wizards. The three joined up and were playing around when they started feeling bored. Gaining a mischievous look, with a quick flourish of a hand, Harry summoned an orb of water above Remus. The man however didn't notice and let out a shout when Harry promptly dropped it on top of his head, soaking him head to toe. Remus glowered at them; his clothes and hair completely soaked.

"Not funny! I was holding a book!" Remus exclaimed as he examined the pages frantically, which only raised the laughter.

"That's what you care about? The book?" Sirius scoffed through his laughter. That is until Harry glared and sent a stream of water at him. Sirius yelped, shielding his face with his arms.

"Books are of the up most importance, that's why I used a protective charm on it," Harry told them. Remus laughed exasperatedly, using a nearby towel to dry his hair.

"Thanks a lot," he said wryly. Of course, he'd protect the book but allow him to be soaked. Harry just innocently smiled. The four continued on doing their thing, just enjoying the nice sun. Once the sun started setting, they found an outside table to eat at. They laughed and joked as they enjoyed a nice barbeque and watched the sun set to a starry night sky. It was nice being near the beach, just being together as a family. For once in his life, Harry felt normal. He fell asleep content with that thought.

TIMESKIP

Dear Harry,

It's been a while, yes? Would you like to visit the manor for brunch sometime? Tom too, of course. Dad has been a bit miffed that I knew about Tom and you dating, but I wasn't about to out your secret. Mum is fine, she doesn't mind too much. Hope to see you soon!

-Draco

Harry read the invitation and smiled. He hadn't seen Draco in a while, it'd be nice to visit. He immediately sent an affirmative reply with Hedwig, and then went to tell Tom.

"Hey, love. Dray invited the two of us over," Harry informed him as he sat beside the boy. Tom who was reading a journal looked up and nodded in understanding.

"Sounds fun," Tom noncommittedly stated, eyes again glued to the book. Harry just smiled; when Tom was into something nothing else mattered.

"What are you reading?" Harry asked the boy, sitting on the armchair next to the boy. Tom didn't look up as he replied.