Everything Remains

Chapter 29: Safe.

The falling sensation coursed through Harry and Draco's bodies, a whooshing wind surrounding them as they traveled through the portkey to the safe house. 
Landing with a thud, their bodies cushioned by thick reeds of grass and damp sand. Where they had appeared at, they weren't exactly sure. But there was the subtle swishing of watery waves, a tang of salt hung in the air, and crickets were playing their songs nearby. 

It was peaceful. It was quiet. It was perfect.

Harry's eyes roamed the area, taking in the peace and calm. Over a slight hill framed in tall grass there stood the safe house; a cottage tucked away against the sea. It reminded him of Shell Cottage on the coast; another safe place for him. 
Draco slowly got up, brushing the grains of sand from his body. "Shall we?" 
Extending an arm to Harry, they linked before walking towards the door, which had an intricate pattern of shells, seaweed, and waters carved into it's wooden surface. 

Pushing the door open, the couple took in the sights of a cozy living room with plush, seafoam green couches, a fireplace with shelled mantel, a woven jute rug, a book shelf with plenty of choices, and other bits and pieces around the room. Adjoining the living room was a small kitchen in hues of blue and cream. 
"Wow. It's beautiful here.." Harry trailed off, opening another adjoining door to a small bathroom. 
Draco headed towards the staircase that went to the second floor. "Let's see what else is there." Pulling Harry's arm upwards, they marched up to the second floor to see four rooms. One bathroom and three bedrooms. Harry grinned, deciding that the room with the biggest bed should be theirs for their stay. The bed was fused driftwood, weathered by age and sea. The sheets were a soft blue, mimicking the sea outside. It was heaven. 

"Darling, I regret to say this, but we didn't bring anything with us... what are we going to do?" Draco's eyes widened in slight panic, realizing they left in such a rush. 
"Dray, it will be okay. Let's just look around and see if there is stuff here to use?" 
The couple began to rummage through storage, cabinets, and drawers, finding some supplies like soaps, clothes, other necessities. 
Suddenly, they heard a distinct *pop* in the kitchen. 

Running down to see, Harry stopped in his tracks when he laid eyes on Tinks, the house elf that helped keep them both alive. 
"Sirs! Tinks is here to give you supplies!! Tinks brought foods and such while you're here." 
Tinks, with her sloppy smile, began filling the fridge and cupboards with all sorts of foods and snacks. 
"Tinks! It's great to see you. Listen. I wanted to thank you for everything you've done for us the past few weeks. I can't explain how much you have helped us and how much it means to us that you would risk your own life to help." Harry was kneeling down to be at eye level, obvious tears welling in his own eyes. 
"Sir! Of course Tinks would help you. Dobby told me of such nobility of Harry Potter. Tinks wanted to help!" Tinks smiled fondly. 
"Yes, thank you Tinks. I know that my family has not been kind to you. And you risked your life to save me anyways. I don't think I will be able to repay your kindness." Draco bowed his head, half in shame and half in respect. 
"Sir Draco, Tinks always knew you were different. It's been an honor." Tinks bowed graciously. "Tinks will be off now. Tinks will come back in a few days time to collect you. Be safe!" And with another *pop* Tinks was gone.


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Harry and Draco had gotten comfortable quickly; toking the fire in the fireplace, snuggling up on the squishy couches, and reading from the mini-library they had at their disposal. The only sounds flowing through the cottage was the crackling of the firewood, the turning of crisp pages, and the slowed movements of the sea in the background. 

"Harry darling?"
"Hhmph?" 
"Would you like to go on a night swim with me?" Draco smirked at the brunette, a level of mischievousness glinting in his eyes.
"You know I can't say no to that face." Harry smiled back, teasing. "Last one out is a gillywig!" Harry jumped up from the couch, sprinting to the back door and out into the sand.
"THAT'S NOT FAIR... HOLD ON!" Draco soon followed, trying to bridge the distance between the two. 
Harry laughed at Draco's surprise, still running towards the edge of the water. 
"Wait! I want to go in together!" Draco practically yelled, muffled slightly by the t-shirt he was taking off with one hand. 
Harry joined in, removing his shirt, jeans, and shoes while Draco did the same. 
"You cheat. This is why you always won in Quidditch wasn't it?" Draco laughed, shoving Harry's shoulder. 
"It's because I always kept you on your toes and surprised." Harry winked, grabbing Draco's hand. "Let's go!"