The Boy Who Ought To Be Dead - H.P

XIX - Brother in Everything But Blood

"Previously known for it's six syllables of sweetness and light, reconciliation has become the political fighting word of the year."
-William Safire
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Severus cleared his throat in hopes of banishing the awkward atmosphere that was set due to prior events.

"Harry, it seems we have some major issues at hand." Severus spoke honestly.

Harry flexed his fingers, "I know. My wand is practically useless—how can I use magic against Voldemort?"

"That is a good question. But not one we shall focus on right now." Severus spoke.

"Severus, with all due respect; it's almost midnight, and all of us have just had a big shock. Can we continue this in the morning, maybe?" Draco asked. Harry was thankful for it.

"You know what, Professor, Draco is right. We should probably sleep on it and carry on in the morning." Ron spoke.

"Huh, never thought I'd hear you say that, Weasley." Draco spoke with a smug smirk.

"Oh, shut up, Malfoy." Ron mumbled playfully. Hermione smiled at the two.

"Well, it seems I am outnumbered. We shall continue this conversation at precisely ten in the morning. Be punctual, or you will not like the consequences." Severus warned.

"All right, Snape. I am gonna head to bed, then." Harry said with a yawn. "Ron, 'Mione, you can see yourselves out."

"Wait, Harry," Ron called.

Severus had left by now, and Hermione was on the way to the door.

"Yeah?" Harry responded.

"Can-can I talk to you for a sec?" He questioned, suddenly nervous.

Harry sighed, but answered anyway. "Sure."

Ron turned to look at Hermione, then looked at Draco. "Alone, please?"

Draco opened his mouth to retort but Harry beat him to it. "Yeah, okay. Just wait in the kitchen for a moment, yeah?"

Ron nodded. "'Mione, go back and get some sleep. I just need to talk to Harry."

Hermione smiled. "Okay, love. I will see you at breakfast." She looked to Draco and Harry, "I will see you two at ten."

"Bye, Hermione." The two boys said in unison.

Ron walked to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water. He leaned back against the counter and sighed deeply. This conversation had been postponed long enough.

"Are you sure you want to talk to him alone?" Draco asked cautiously, holding Harry's hands.

"Yeah? Should I not want to?" He questioned, confused.

"I mean, you just have not talked alone since you became...friends again. He said some pretty bad stuff about you." Draco expressed his deep concern.

"It's okay, Dray. He has been my closest friend for a while, despite what he has said. I can handle it. Go to bed, get some sleep. I will be there soon." Harry reassured him.

"If you're certain..." Draco said, still unsure.

"I am. Go to sleep, you must be exhausted." Harry urged.

"You are one to talk about being exhausted. Take a look at your eye bags." He defended.

Harry smirked. "Go to sleep. You are moody when you're tired."

"Son of a bitch." Draco mumbled, but smiled slightly.

Harry kissed his cheek lightly, and felt the taller boy loosen up. "Go to bed. I will come soon, I promise."