A New Chapter at Hogwarts [Drarry] ✔

Chapter 44: Beyond the School Gates

The last day of the school year at Hogwarts was always tinged with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. The Great Hall was filled with the buzz of students saying goodbye, the clatter of trunks being dragged down the hallways, and the laughter and chatter of friends making plans for the summer. Sunlight poured through the enchanted ceiling, casting a warm glow over the gathered crowd, illuminating groups of seventh-year students exchanging hugs, laughs, and even a few tearful farewells. Harry and Draco stood near the staff table, watching the familiar scene unfold, each of them carrying a small collection of gifts—thoughtful tokens from the graduating students who had come to them, one by one, to thank them for their guidance.

A cluster of seventh years, including a few Gryffindors and Slytherins who'd frequently taken their classes, lingered to say their goodbyes. A tall Gryffindor boy grinned as he handed Harry a worn leather-bound journal. "We know you like keeping records of everything, Professor Potter," he said, a note of affection in his voice. "Thought it'd be useful for next year."

A Slytherin girl approached Draco, holding a slim silver quill wrapped in green ribbon. She looked up at him with a hesitant smile. "Professor Malfoy, I thought... well, you might like this. A little reminder from all of us." Draco took the quill, his own smile softening as he offered his thanks.

Harry chuckled, his voice warm with gratitude. "Thank you, all of you," he said, nodding at the gathered students. "It's been an honour teaching you. Have a fantastic summer—and don't forget to relax a little before you head into the real world."

Draco nodded, echoing Harry's sentiment with a rare, genuine smile. "Yes, do enjoy yourselves. And don't cause too much trouble."

With a few more farewells and well-wishes, Harry and Draco finally slipped from the hall, fingers loosely entwined as they made their way through the winding corridors. The last few students they passed nodded in their direction, waving or calling out brief goodbyes. Harry waved back, glancing sideways at Draco with a smile.

They walked in companionable silence for a moment, and then Harry broke it. "So... Grimmauld Place," he began, a bit hesitantly, though his eyes held a glimmer of excitement. "You're still up for staying with me for a bit?"

Draco shook his head, giving him an exasperated, albeit fond, look before nudging him playfully with his shoulder. "For Merlin's sake, Harry, if you ask me that one more time, I might just reconsider."

Harry laughed, squeezing Draco's hand as they continued. "All right, all right. Just making sure you know what you're in for. The place does have its quirks, after all."

Once they arrived at Harry's chambers, Draco pushed open the door and cast an assessing glance over the room. He raised an eyebrow, surveying the clutter of clothes scattered over the bed and various surfaces. A dramatic sigh escaped his lips as he took in the sight. "You mean to tell me," he began, crossing his arms with a look of exaggerated disappointment, "that after all those reminders I gave you to pack in advance, this is what you call 'prepared'?"

Harry rubbed the back of his neck, his expression a mixture of sheepishness and amusement. "It's just clothes," he defended, flashing a grin as he walked over to the bed. "Everything else is sorted. Promise."

Draco rolled his eyes, his fingers twitching in faint disbelief. He lifted his hand, and with a subtle flick of his wrist, the stack of books piled precariously on the coffee table lifted and glided neatly into the open suitcase. "Of course," he said dryly, a hint of mirth in his voice, "just your clothes." His lips curved into a smirk as he glanced at Harry, clearly enjoying the moment of mock reproach.

Harry snorted, unable to contain his amusement as he picked up a stray jumper and stuffed it into the case. "You know, if you keep doing things like that, I'll start thinking you enjoy this whole 'helping me' routine."