Tom's little serpent

Chapter 11: *EDITED*

Lunchtime at Malfoy Manor was a lavish affair, the dining hall adorned with silverware and magical candles that flickered softly. Seated at the ornate table, Harry sat uncomfortably in his high chair, his eyes fixed on the plate of food in front of him. Around him, the adults engaged in polite conversation, their voices mixing with the occasional clink of cutlery.

Draco Malfoy, standing hesitantly at the edge of the room, watched Harry with a mix of curiosity and remorse. He had known Harry before, but their interactions had been fraught with tension and misunderstanding. Now, seeing Harry unsettled, Draco felt a pang of regret for his past behaviour.

"Hi, Harry," Draco replied softly, stepping closer. "I... I'm sorry for how I acted before. I didn't understand."

Harry nodded understandingly, his expression thoughtful. "It's okay," he said gently. "We can be friends now."

Draco hesitated, then nodded gratefully. "I'd like that," he admitted, a genuine smile tugging at his lips.

With the tension eased Draco took a seat nearby, joining Harry at the table. Tom, observing the interaction with satisfaction, gestured for lunch to continue. House-elves appeared with trays of food, and soon the table was filled with an array of dishes.

As they ate, Harry and Draco chatted animatedly, sharing stories about their favourite magical creatures and the adventures they hoped to have. Tom occasionally joined in, guiding the conversation with fatherly warmth, his eyes flickering with pride at the bond forming between the boys. Draco then offered for them to play with his toys and play games with each other after lunch but after saying this harry went quiet.

Sensing Harry's unease, Tom glanced at Severus Snape, who nodded subtly before rising from his seat. Snape approached Harry cautiously, his dark eyes softening with concern. "Harry, would you like to come with me for a moment?" he asked gently.

Harry hesitated, but when Snape extended a reassuring hand, he nodded silently and allowed himself to be led out of the dining hall. They walked down a corridor adorned with tapestries until they reached a cozy living room filled with sunlight streaming through large windows.

Snape knelt down beside Harry, who fidgeted nervously. "What's troubling you, Harry?" Snape inquired, his voice gentle yet firm.

"I... I don't know how to play," Harry admitted quietly, his eyes downcast. "I'm scared of... of new things."

Snape nodded understandingly, placing a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder. "It's okay to feel scared, Harry," he reassured. "You don't have to do anything you're not ready for."

Tom appeared in the doorway, his expression thoughtful. "Harry, we brought these toys for you because we thought you might like them," he said softly, gesturing towards a corner filled with colorful objects. "But it's okay if you're not ready to play with them yet."

Harry glanced at the toys—a miniature broomstick, enchanted building blocks, and a toy dragon that emitted harmless sparks. He felt overwhelmed by their presence, unsure of what to do with them.

Tom crouched beside Snape, his presence a calming presence for Harry. "Would you like to just look at them for now?" Tom suggested gently. "There's no rush, and you can decide when you feel comfortable."

Harry nodded slowly, tears welling up in his eyes. "I'm sorry," he whispered, feeling ashamed of his fear.

"You have nothing to apologize for, Harry," Snape assured him firmly. "We're here to help you, no matter what."

Tom reached out, his hand resting on Harry's shoulder. "You're safe here, Harry," he said quietly. "And we're here to support you, always."

Feeling a surge of gratitude and relief, Harry leaned into Tom's embrace, allowing himself to be comforted. Snape remained beside them, his presence steady and reassuring.

After a few moments, Harry wiped away his tears, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Can... can we try playing later?" he asked tentatively, glancing at the toys with renewed curiosity.

"Of course, Harry," Tom replied warmly, his eyes filled with pride. "Whenever you're ready."

With Snape's support, they returned to the dining hall where Draco waited anxiously. Seeing Harry's tear-stained face, Draco's expression softened with empathy.

"Are you okay, Harry?" Draco asked softly, stepping closer.

Harry nodded, managing a small smile. "I will be," he replied, feeling a sense of hopefulness in Draco's presence.