Pawprints

3. Alabaster, the Companion

Every morning after the war, Narcissa would go to Draco's room and wake him up, and each morning she would be faced by an agonisingly tired looking Draco who was already wide awake. The first few times she'd seen him awake she hadn't given it much thought and just chalked it up to the fact that Draco had always been an early riser. 
Draco's appearance kept worsening and he started withdrawing into himself, hardly talking to anyone. He seemed to have become a whisper of his former self and would spend countless hours staring out of his window, arms around himself as he rocked back and forth continuously. 

Narcissa was immensely worried as Draco's behaviour changed and she noted Lucius of this. Draco had never been a quiet child, save for the time he served under the Dark Lord. He had always been very opinionated and had an exuberant precense that took over a room.

After the war however things had changed, Draco's friends were currently scattered all over the globe, some starting afresh with their families and others in hiding till things seemed to calm down.
Blaise was currently in Italy with his mother and her newest husband. He would occasionally write to Draco and it was Blaise's letters that Draco treasured the most. Nott was globetrotting with his father who was on the run and would send Draco souvenirs and the odd letter. Pansy was in France, she was to join Beauxbatons as a finishing school of sorts. But Draco knew that she would try her best to rejoin Hogwarts through whatever means possible if she could get her way.

Draco would get few letters and he clung on to them, reading and re reading them with a smile on his face and tears glistening in his eyes. He was at the owlery daily waiting for some contact and had even taken up the chore of feeding them in the mornings and evenings.

Narcissa knew Draco was lonely, that he had gone through a lot of things and his demons were different and unique to him. They all had various fears and various experiences but she just wished he would talk to her or even Lucius for that matter.

He hardly ever sat by the fire in his armchair, or even at the dining table for longer than necessary. The library at the Manor that was mostly filled with Draco's books remained empty, his precious tomes gathering dust. She even consulted Professor Snape not just because he was Draco's godfather, but because he used to be the head of Slytherin he had great expertise in dealing with troubled teenagers.

Lucius was under added stress, not just the situation at home but the new reforms that were being brought about regarding the purification of wizarding society were a constant worry in the back of his mind. He knew that his family and he had been pardoned for their actions but things could change in an instant and people would turn against them.

As a result of all these worries, Professor Snape had become a constant fixture at their house. He would pop in with various potions or just drop in for a chat or dinner to let them know about the Order's stand on things and give them the latest news. Draco would talk to Severus and Narcissa would often see Severus hugging him while Draco sobbed.

Professor Snape his thoughts with Narcissa and Lucius about Draco and what he was going through. He recommended seeing a mind Healer while reassuring them that Draco wasn't insane he just needed some support and maybe someone to talk to without any restrictions or judgement. Professor Snape bought up the topic of Muggle therapists and counsellors who were paid to listen to their patients talk, asses them and offer suitable assistance.

Severus knew deep down it would take a lot for the Malfoy's to even consider visiting a Muggle therapist but he also knew that they would do anything for Draco.

Narcissa, Lucius and Draco visited a reputed mind Healer, Master Gregarius Boyde. He was old and feebling but had a very calming presence. He had twinkling brown eyes and wild shaggy hair and the sweetest smile. They all had their turns speaking to him and telling him various things.

Master Boyde recommended a change of scene for Draco and that Draco indulge in some activities to keep him occupied.

Narcissa and Lucius didn't see a marvellously noticeable improvement in Draco but noticed he would linger for a while after dinner and kiss them good night. They had put aside Severus's idea of taking Draco to a Muggle therapist and were quite happy with Master Boyde and his treatment.

Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy along with Draco had left the Malfoy Manor and were currently living in their seaside cottage near Wales. This temporary change of residence was done according to Master Boyde's recommendation.
The cottage was rustic, close to the sea and smelt of salt. There was a small garden which was where Draco spent most of his time growing flowers and plants. He had started to develop a rosy tan and a muscular toned body. Lucius and Narcissa also felt more at ease in their cottage, away from what seemed like reality. They were still stressed but there was something soothing about living near the sea.

Over the coming weeks Draco visited Master Boyde and one day after his session he lingered in the dining room. 
"Mother, Father, Master Boyde mentioned that I should get a familiar"

"Why is that Draco?" Narcissa asked brushing a strand of hair away from her face.

"So that I'd feel less alone I suppose" Draco said, head bent down and voice almost muffled.

Lucius placed a hand on his shoulder "We can get you anything you want son. You just need to talk to us"

"I know Father, but sometimes I feel like I can't speak. As if there is something blocking my voice."

Narcissa and Lucius looked at each other.
"Draco, thank you for telling us this. Are you working on this with Master Boyde?" said Narcissa as she took a sip from her white wine.

Draco nodded and looked up at his parents. 
"Can we visit Diagon Alley tomorrow? I think I would like a dog. Even Severus has one."

Lucius and Narcissa smiled at him, eyes shining with love. They knew how much Draco looked up to his godfather.

The following morning Draco Malfoy walked home a white German shepherd named Alabaster.