A New Chapter at Hogwarts [Drarry]

Chapter 29: A Change of Heart

Draco stood by the front door of the Burrow, feeling the warmth of the house seep into him, like a soft blanket wrapping around his shoulders. The scent of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts, and pine lingered in the air from the festive Christmas dinner they'd just finished, adding to the atmosphere of comfort and belonging. Laughter echoed through the house, the easy chatter of family members at peace with one another. For the first time in a long while, Draco felt like he belonged.

He turned to face Molly and Arthur Weasley, both standing near him, their smiles warm and genuine. He struggled to find the right words to express his gratitude, something beyond the shallow pleasantries he was accustomed to. "Thank you again," he said, his voice carrying more weight than he intended. "I really enjoyed myself. Being in the company of your family has been... amazing. I appreciate you all seeing more in me than just the foolish boy who made some grave mistakes."

Molly's eyes softened with motherly affection, and she didn't hesitate before stepping forward to pull Draco into a tight hug. "Oh, Draco," she said, her voice rich with kindness, "you've shown us who you really are, and that's what matters." When she pulled back, she cupped his face in her hands, looking into his eyes with earnestness. "You're a good man, Draco Malfoy. And you're welcome here anytime. It was truly lovely to get to know you better."

The lump in Draco's throat was impossible to swallow as his usual composure faltered. He nodded, still too overwhelmed to respond properly. For a moment, words escaped him. Arthur then stepped forward, shaking Draco's hand with a firm, reassuring grip. "Take care of yourself, Draco," he said with a gentle smile. "You'll always have a place here."

The Weasleys gathered around, each offering their goodbyes. "Take care, Draco!" Ron called, his tone friendlier than Draco could have imagined months ago. George chimed in, a grin on his face. "Yeah, don't be a stranger!" Even the children, their faces bright with excitement, waved enthusiastically, their small voices filling the space with cheerful goodbyes.

Draco couldn't help but smile, a warmth blooming in his chest that he hadn't expected. The feeling of belonging was so foreign, yet here, in the chaotic warmth of the Burrow, it felt natural. He was a part of something, even if only for a moment. His gaze lingered on Harry, who stood by the doorway, watching the scene unfold with a smile that carried more than just friendliness.

"I'll walk you a little ways," Harry said, his voice light, though there was something deeper in his tone. Draco nodded, feeling a mix of anticipation and uncertainty flutter in his chest as they stepped outside into the crisp winter air. The snow crunched underfoot as they walked a little further from the Burrow, the house's glowing lights behind them casting a soft warmth over the snowy landscape.

The night sky stretched out above them, dark and clear, the stars like pinpricks of light scattered across the heavens. Draco clutched the small, round Portkey in his hand—a trinket he could activate whenever he was ready to return to his flat. The air between him and Harry felt thick with unspoken words, but neither of them broke the silence at first.

Harry's eyes flicked to the Portkey in Draco's hand, and with a hint of curiosity, he raised an eyebrow. "Why do you always use Portkeys?" he asked with a light laugh. "Apparating or Floo travel would be a lot easier, don't you think?"

Draco shrugged, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I've always preferred Portkeys," he said, his breath visible in the cold air. "Apparating is too abrupt, and I've never cared for the mess of Floo powder. Besides," he added, glancing around at the snowy fields, "I like to take my time leaving places."

Harry smirked at that, but there was something more serious in his expression as they continued to walk. The silence lingered for a beat too long before Harry spoke again. "You sure everything's okay?" His tone was soft, filled with a genuine concern that Draco hadn't quite gotten used to. "You've been quiet today. Well, you've been quiet ever since the meteor shower, actually."