Lowly Beginnings

DISCLAIMER: Harry Potter et al. belongs to JK Rowling

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AN: Hey. There will be some 'Mature Content' in this chapter, so don't read if you don't like. I won't appreciate flames from homophobes or bigots since you'd have known by the start of the story if you didn't want to continue, so don't read 13 chapters into it then complain about a little D/H! (aka, don't report me please). Hehe… I wrote some of this chapter whilst completely drunk! It was cool the next day to read what I'd written the night before- I kept some of it in but removed all the spelling and grammar mistakes. Well, Coleridge wrote his poems on opium… uh, enjoy anyway.

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Chapter 13: Mistakes and Mishaps

The next morning when Harry awake, with dried tear tracks down his face, he rolled out of the bed causing Draco to stir but not wake. He took a quick shower, and then went to the phone.

He hadn't contacted Hermione or Ron all summer. He knew that both of them were planning to meet up in Europe at one point during the holiday- sometime this week in Greece- and he was hoping he'd catch them together now; he'd like both of their view points about his situation. He dialled the number Ron had given him, and it rang for almost a minute without response. Harry was just about to give up when,

'Hello?' came Ron's voice.

'Hey Ron.' Harry grinned happily. He'd forgotten how much he missed his friends. 'What took so long? Oh, is Hermione there too?' he asked as he heard a female voice in the background.

'Yeah dude, that's Hermione. And we were out at the pool, we just came back when we heard the phone ringing. So, what's up? How's work? Any cute guys?' He teased.

'Well, work's great. It's fun, brings in enough money…' Harry trailed off.

'What aren't you telling me Harry?' said Ron suspiciously. He knew Harry too well.

'I moved in with Draco Malfoy.' Harry blurted out in one mouthful.

'W-wh-WHAT?' came Ron's voice down the phone. 'Our teacher? What the hell were you thinking?'

'Uh… he's only a couple of years older than us- not exactly a teacher. And he helped me a lot this holiday.' Harry replied nervously. He wanted his friends to accept Draco… it would make he himself much more happy around Draco, especially since he felt a little separated from him after last night.

'What sort of help?' Ron asked slowly. Ron was protective of Harry as if he was a little brother, and anyone that helped Harry was generally all right in his books.

'Well- he stopped a gang from raping me for one-'

'WHAT?' Ron shouted. 'What the hell were you doing out at night alone?'

'It was only 9 O'clock.' Said Harry, 'And I was walking back from work and this group cornered me. Then Draco arrived in his car…' Harry said, remembering the relief he had felt at that moment. That was when he had first fallen in love with him, he thought to himself, before thinking 'Love?' He wasn't in love was he? Then he sighed, and admitted to himself, that maybe he was. He certainly couldn't picture a world without Draco. Sure they'd have their fights, like last night, but what relationship didn't? Suddenly, Harry felt a lot lighter.

Ron had been silent for a while, before,

'If he makes you happy Harry, then I guess…' he left the rest unsaid, and Harry was happy. 'But if he hurts you, I'll come over there and kick the sh-'

'He would never purposefully hurt me Ron.' Harry interrupted Ron's tirade.

'All right Har,' Ron acknowledged affectionately with Harry's nick name. 'As long as you're happy. Wait, Hermione's trying to pull the phone away from m-'

Once again, Ron was cut off as Hermione's voice came on. She sounded slightly breathless and Harry could guess that Ron was chasing her around the room for the phone judging by the background noises.

'Hey Harry baby…' There was the sound of someone falling with an 'Oomph' and Harry could assume that was Ron. 'What's this I hear about you dating that hot dish we had for a teacher?'

'You hear right 'Mione.' Laughed Harry.

'You're happy?' she asked. Harry affirmed. 'You're safe?' she asked and Harry agreed again. 'It's long term?' she asked and Harry gave a vigorous nod before realising she couldn't see him and answering in the affirmative instead. 'You're having sex?' She asked. Harry was about to answer, before he processed the question, and laughed,

''Mione! I can't believe you just asked that!'

She laughed too, 'It was worth a try. I was just wondering… you haven't done it before and I want you to be safe.'

'I will be when we do it.' Harry said positively.

'When. Not If? You must be pretty hung up on this guy. Just be careful.'

Harry blushed. He hadn't realised his slip,

'You know what 'Mione,' he said softly, not really wanting to admit it out loud, especially since he really truly meant it, 'I think I may be in love with him.'

'Oh Harry!' Hermione squealed. 'Really?'

'Really, really.' Harry confirmed with a small smile now it was out in the open. 'But we had an argument last night, and I don't know- but- but he just reminded me of my Uncle for a minute-'

'Oh Harry.' Said Hermione in concern. 'I'm sure it was nothing. He would never purposefully hurt you?'

'No, Never!' Harry replied. 'He was just a little drunk and jealous. But we worked it out, and I can't imagine life without him now.' Said Harry confused. He wasn't sure how much he felt he trusted Draco at the moment. Sure Draco had been drunk, and he had been a bit of a wild party animal until not that long ago... but he had scared Harry! Maybe they just needed to work things out... Harry knew he would do anything to makes things perfect once more with Draco. And Draco had said he'd never do anything like that again. So... it would all be okay; he didn't fully trust Draco at the moment, but his trust could be won back.

'Then you're definitely in love Harry.' Hermione said, ever the voice of reason, cutting back into Harry's thoughts. 'Every couple argues… look at me and Ron.' She said.

'Oi!' came Ron's indignant voice in the background.

'I'm just glad you're happy Harry.' Harry could almost hear Hermione smiling. 'Who ever thought you would grow up like this? I still remember when you were new to the school and you got assigned to the school play, but forgot your lines and so did an Irish jig instead- the audience thought it was hilarious, but I seem to recall a weeks worth of detentions. You'll go down in Hogwarts History.' They both laughed. Hermione couldn't explain why she felt the need to reminisce but Harry understood her sentiment. They had been best friends for years; they'd watched each other grow and mature, they'd seen each other's mistakes, their tears and their smiles. No matter what, they'd always be his best friends. And they were happy that Harry had finally found someone to love.

'All right then 'Mione. Say bye to Ron for me. You two have fun- but not too much fun…' Harry finished the conversation with a cheeky grin, hanging up before Hermione could protest, with a final, 'Love you guys!'

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Harry was sitting cross legged on the sofa later that afternoon watching a documentary on the War, whilst Draco was at work. They hadn't had time to speak much that morning once Draco had woken as Draco had to leave, but Draco had given him a smouldering kiss goodbye and Harry immediately forgave the previous nights actions, all his doubts being pushed to the back of his mind; after all, it was a one off. He'd just make sure Draco didn't drink as much again.

Suddenly, without any warning, he felt hands clasp round his head, covering his eyes. He screamed and started to struggle, before he heard Draco's voice,

'Guess who?' He said.

'Draco, you arse. You scared me! I didn't hear you come in!' Harry cried.

'I was quiet.' Draco said slyly. Harry scowled, still not able to see Draco as his eyes were still covered. 'I bought you something…' Draco said enticingly.

Harry tried to resist the temptation to ask 'What?' and act nonchalant and uncaring, but found he couldn't. Instead, like a little kid, he started bouncing up and down on the sofa,

'What'd you get me?' he asked. He felt something being placed on his lap, and then his eyes were uncovered.

He immediately looked down at what was in his lap, then back at Draco, eyes widening and his grin increasing,

'CHOCOLATE!' He squealed. 'My favourites. How did you know?'

'I asked Blaise. You mentioned it to him once.' Draco replied smugly. Then he sobered, 'I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for last night again. I shouldn't have drank so much.'

'Forgiven.' Harry stated, kissing Draco on the nose. Draco watched apprehensively as Harry opened the box of chocolates and pulled one out and popping it into his mouth.

'What?' said Harry nervously, watching Draco watching him. He swallowed his chocolate. 'Do I have something in my teeth?'

Draco shook his head innocently. Harry frowned, before reaching into the box for another chocolate. Suddenly, he felt something cold and hard in the box- something that wasn't chocolate. He peered curiously into the box and his eyes widened comically. He pulled out a beautiful silver ring that had a thin green band of emerald set in the silver.

'It's gorgeous…' He breathed, breathless from the touching gesture. 'It's honestly gorgeous.'

'Like you.' Draco informed Harry sincerely. 'It's a promise ring... for our one month anniversary. You know what they are, right?'

Harry nodded, taken aback slightly, before allowing Draco to take the ring and slip it onto his finger. It fit perfectly, and looked stunning- simple, elegant- stunning.

'Thank you.' Harry whispered. 'I don't know what to say… I haven't got you anything.'

'You don't need to... I like buying things, especially for you.' Draco enlightened Harry.

This was followed by what could be termed a 'make up snog session'. Draco invaded Harry's mouth and Harry surrendered to the action, moaning into it.

Draco lay down on the couch, pulling Harry's lighter frame on top of him and gazed intensely into his eyes,

'I love you.'

'I love you too.' Harry said back.

'Do you really mean that Harry?' Draco asked, looking searchingly into Draco's eyes. 'You said it before, but it seemed like you were saying it just because I said it to you first. I don't want a façade Harry. I want a relationship.' He said seriously with intent.

Harry smiled. When he had said it before, after telling Draco his secrets, he had partially said it out of love, but also because Draco had said it to him. Now though, as proven with his conversation with Ron and Hermione earlier, he meant it whole heartedly. If they could survive their first argument, they could survive anything. And Harry was willing to stand by Draco through thick and thin.

Mature Content Starts Here

'I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it.' Harry smiled and Draco relaxed, pulling Harry down for another searing, flaming kiss. The pressure of the ring on Harry's finger made him feel slightly guilty again that he had nothing to offer Draco. But then he realised, he did have something. Something he could only give willingly. His love. And it was this that prompted him to do something he had never done before.

Whilst still entwining his tongue with Draco's, he allowed his fingers to trail down Draco's chest and rest on his zipper. He gave it a little tug, and Draco pulled his mouth away from Harry's. He looked down from where Harry's hand rested on the growing bulge in his pants, to Harry's face. Harry looked timid as if he would be rejected, but he also had an expression of complete devotion on his pretty face.

'Are you sure you want to Harry? You don't have to.' Draco said, not wanting Harry to stop, but not wanting Harry to do anything he would regret later. He was willing to wait.

'I'm sure.' And Harry kissed Draco again, before undoing the zip and pulling down the trousers and boxers that Draco was wearing, freeing his erection.

He knelt between Draco's legs, and leant in towards Draco's length. He let his breath tease it, and Draco shifted in exquisite agony.

Harry ran one finger curiously up the side of Draco's leg, up towards his crotch. He lightly fondled Draco's balls, before running his index along the entire length of Draco's cock,

'Stop fucking teasing Harry.' Groaned Draco breathlessly, from the top of the sofa. Harry lifted his head and looked at Draco, then grinned before enveloping his mouth around Draco. Draco bucked, trying to create friction. Harry deep throated him without choking, and Draco wound his fingers into Harry's soft hair, trying to pull Harry closer, and push himself deeper into Harry's throat.

Harry hummed gently, causing Draco to become harder than he had ever been before. God, he could barely believe this was Harry's first time doing this. He was a natural… perhaps Josh had been right in the car the day before. He quickly removed the thought of Josh, not wanting to be thinking about him when he had Harry here giving him exactly what he wanted.

Finally, his senses went into overload, and Harry sucking wantonly made him come, hard and fast into Harry's mouth. Cliché though it may be, Harry swallowed everything. He pulled Draco's trousers back up as if to preserve his modesty, then he lay beside Draco and allowed himself to be hugged,

'You, Harry, are… amazing.' Draco said simply, unable to string together a sentence any longer than that. 'Do you want me to-?'

'No.' Replied Harry. 'I'm happy if you're happy… I don't think- I don't think I'm ready for that yet. Later.' Draco couldn't quite understand this logic, but shrugged. He was very happy, and if that made Harry very happy, then all the better.

He drew Harry close to him, and Harry entwined his legs around Draco's and they slept together peacefully.

Mature Content Ends Here

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After the weekend, Harry was working at the café as usual. It was morning time, and Blaise was there, munching on a bacon buttie as per usual,

'So Harry…' Blaise started with a cheeky grin. 'I hear you and Draco are properly serious now?'

'Yep.' Harry said proudly, smiling at Blaise, before wrinkling his nose, 'You have bacon stuck in your teeth…ew.'

'I'm saving it for later.' Blaise smirked, before removing it.

'Don't eat it all at once.' Harry teased, as Blaise wiped his fingers on a napkin.

'Shut up mop head.' Blaise replied.

'What is it with you and Draco calling me mop head? It's not really that bad… is it?' Harry asked doubtfully, self-consciously feeling his hair.

'I'll let you be the judge of that.' Said Blaise. Personally, he liked Harry's hair and it always amused him to see the impeccably groomed Draco next to Harry, but it was fun to tease Harry. 'All right, I need to go to the toilet and wash my hands. Be back in a minute.'

As Blaise departed for the loo, Josh came out from the kitchens. He walked over to where Harry was sitting, since there were no other customers in the café yet,

'Hey Harry? Where did you disappear to at the club? I missed you.' He said seductively.

Harry frowned. Ever since Draco had informed him of Josh's behaviour around him, he too noticed it now. Did Josh really fancy him?

'Uh, Draco got a little drunk and we went home.' Harry laughed, trying to be casual with Josh.

Josh looked at Harry, and Harry suddenly realised what that look was. He's jealous! thought Harry. Because I went home with Draco. Oh.

Harry picked up the empty plate and cup Blaise had left behind, and put them on a tray about to take them to the kitchen. He really wanted to keep away from Josh; he didn't want to give him the wrong idea.

As he walked away, Josh grabbed his wrist and twisted Harry around so that Harry face was pressed into Josh's chest, the plate crushed between them,

'Why don't you want me Harry?' Josh asked, suddenly angry- a stark contrast to his previously placid demeanour. 'Malfoy's a god damn stuck up shit! We'd be so much better together- why don't you fucking see that?'

Harry panicked and tried to pull away, dropping the plate where it shattered on the floor, causing Blaise to come running from the toilet. He stood slightly concealed in the shadows behind a potted plant as he looked in horror and anger at the scene before him.

'Let go!' Harry cried, upset.

'I don't think so!' Josh snarled and harshly pressed his lips to Harry's so hard it was bruising. Harry refused to respond but he couldn't do anything, being smaller and in shock at having himself invaded by someone other than Draco,

'Get the FUCK off him!' screamed Blaise, coming out of the shadows, physically pulling Josh off Harry. Harry was standing, astounded at what had just happened.

When he processed what had just occurred , he drew back a fist and punched Josh in the face; although normally not violent, he was furious at Josh for kissing him and furious at himself,

'I have a boyfriend, Josh! I thought you were my friend!' Harry screamed, Blaise restraining Harry from doing anything he'd regret- Josh's nose was already bleeding- although he himself too felt the need to hurt Josh. Draco was his best friend and Harry- well, Harry was Harry.

Harry calmed down, breathing heavily, before throwing off his apron,

'I quit!' He announced vehemently. He glared at Josh before leaving the café with Blaise in tow, kicking at a bunch of flowers that were on the floor. Blaise looked backwards when he reached the door, and drew his finger across his throat, with a parting threat.

'Stay away from Harry, Josh, or Draco will make life so difficult for you it won't even be funny!'

Josh smirked, blood running down from his nose, as both Harry and Blaise left the building. He may not have a chance with Harry anymore, but at least he'd ruined things for Harry and Draco. Unlike the other two, he was the only one who had seen Draco enter the café earlier with a large bouquet of lilies and radiant smile on his face. That was, of course, when he had kissed Harry. No one had seen the completely crushed look on Draco's face as he saw what looked like Harry participating in a steamy kiss with Josh. No one had seen Draco drop the flowers. No one had seen Draco leave the café completely crestfallen and betrayed. No one but Josh. And he smiled.

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Harry stood on the door step of Draco and his house nearly 2 hours later; he had stopped off at Blaise's house first to talk and give him a chance to calm down. He had decided not to tell Draco about the kiss with Blaise's agreement ('Keep it quiet Harry because I'm telling you now Harry, Draco'd turn Josh's entrails into ex-trails if he found out!'). After all, he'd quit work and he never needed to see Josh again so why bother Draco?

He inserted his own key into the door and opened it. The house was silent- that was odd. Draco should be home now and normally he had music playing… after their sexual exploit during the weekend, Draco had been extra caring to him. Often they would dance together in the living room, or snuggle up together on the couch or in bed. Anything to show Harry that he cared.

Harry made his way into the lounge and stopped dead when he saw Draco sitting slumped in the armchair. He was about to run over to him, when Draco groggily lifted his head, and Harry then saw the near empty whiskey bottle clenched in Draco's hand.

'Draco? Have you been drinking?' Harry asked cautiously, taking another step closer to Draco. 'You said you wouldn't drink again.' He frowned.

'Soooo?' Draco slurred. 'If you can do what you want, I can do what I want!' He drawled adamantly.

'You're drunk Draco.' Harry stated. 'I don't like you drunk…' Harry said weakly as Draco came stood up and walked- remarkably accurately for one so drunk- towards Harry. 'I'm just going to go upstairs now Draco. I don't know why you're drunk but we only fight and argue when you're drunk.' Harry turned to leave when Draco stepped in front of him.

'I saw you Harry. Last time at the club- ha! I can't believe I let you talk me into believing you were just dancing! You in your little punk clothes acting all innocent… it's a nice act. I fell for it.'

'What are you on?' Harry asked Draco, although now he had the sinking feeling he knew.

'At the café Harry! I SAW you! I fucking saw you! Kissing him like a slut!' Draco screamed spraying spit in Harry's face. Draco didn't feel so drunk now- he was able to function properly but his mind was still reeling. He was numb and betrayed. But mainly betrayed.

'God Draco, it's not what it seems!' Harry protested desperately. This was not how he had imagined this conversation going- not that he had planned on this conversation occurring at all. 'Ppfff…' he breathed out and up, causing his hair that fell across his face to blow upwards out of his eyes. 'Flaming hell!' he swore, wondering how to word it, before deciding on the simplest way. 'Josh kissed me. If you'd stayed, you would have seen me hit him! I told him to get off me… I was just as angry and upset too- I should have listened to you Draco.' Harry finished sadly. 'And I should have told you straight away rather than trying to avoid it.'

Draco made to look into Harry's eyes, hearing the sincerity, but then a little voice in his said, Look into his eyes and you'll believe his lies. Like last time.

Suddenly, Harry stopped being a person, and he became an object. A target. Draco took a swing at Harry head, furious at Harry for lying to him. His reflexes were crystal despite the alcohol he had consumed not half an hour before, but his mind was buzzing. He felt if he just calmed down he'd be able to think rationally, but if he calmed down, he'd believe more of Harry's lies and he couldn't… he just couldn't.

Harry's eyes widened but his martial arts training kicked in, and he ducked and rolled.

He stood and straightened up, holding his palms outwards as a peace gesture,

'Draco. Think about what you're doing. Calm down. It's me! I'm not lying, I swear to you!' Harry panted whilst trying to dodge Draco who kept coming at him.

Draco didn't even hear Harry. He couldn't even recognise Harry… in fact, he wasn't sure what he was doing… just he knew he had to hit the moving coloured blob… if only it wasn't moving so fast. Finally, after what seemed forever, he hit it.

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Harry ducked and swerved Draco's fists, avoiding any contact. He didn't want to try fighting Draco- he didn't want to hurt him… he cared about him too much. But why was he doing this? Draco knew Harry wouldn't cheat on him. Draco promised that he wouldn't get drunk like that again. Draco swore he'd protect Harry!

Suddenly, when Harry was lost in distressed thought, he didn't duck fast enough and Draco's fist came towards his face. It was a clumsy punch, more of a slap. It didn't hurt so much but it was enough to knock Harry to the floor.

From his position on the floor, Harry looked up at Draco who was standing in shock looking down at Harry. Harry held his hand to his cheek where a red mark was evident. Draco had hit him! He was just like his uncle! Draco had said he loved him, he'd said he'd look after Harry, and he'd turned out just like his uncle. This kept replaying in Harry's mind for what seemed like hours but was merely seconds.

Harry, sprawled with his legs out on the floor backed away from Draco's towering frame, his elbows supporting his weight. Draco's eyes were now unreadable, just looking down at Harry. Suddenly, Harry leapt up and sprinted upstairs and Draco heard a door slamming.

He sat down heavily on the chair. Hopefully Harry was going to pack and leave. Draco didn't know if he could look at Harry ever again, especially not now. He cheated on him. He felt sober now and therefore Harry's betrayal hit him full force.

Without warning, a phone rang, jolting Draco harshly from his self pitying. Draco looked at the phone. He couldn't be bothered to answer it now; he didn't think he'd ever felt this lousy and hurt.

After a few rings, the answering machine toned, and Blaise's voice came on,

'Clearly you're not in, but I've gotta tell you something important. I didn't want to tell you, but I reconsidered and felt you had the right to know.'

Draco sat up a little straighter to pay attention to what Blaise was saying.

'Josh doesn't stand a chance with Harry now; he tried kissing him at the café earlier and Harry completely blew him off. I don't think I've seen Harry that angry- gave Josh a bloody nose. He's got a nice right hook by the way. Harry gave him a massive telling off and then quit. Just threw his apron off right there in the middle of the room and stormed out. You would've been proud seeing him there Draco. So I don't think Josh'll be causing any more problems… you're lucky you have a guy like Harry. See ya later dude.'

As the message had played out, Draco felt both his jaw and his heart sink. Oh, SHIT! What had he done?

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AN: I know Draco got drunk again and hurt Harry, but he messed up! You'd think that after the last time he would have learned... but alcohol does do weird stuff to you. Also, is anyone willing to translate this into German since some people want to read it in German and my German, is, uh, shall we say, limited... I can direct you to the post office though, as long as the post office is on the first right or left. Anyway, onto reviews- let it be known that I still appreciate every single one!

Andromeda Malfoy-Potter- Yay, glad you liked. No, Harry wasn't raped as a child, just abused mentally and physically.

Caz- Aw, thanks. Glad you think it's original... I'm trying to keep it different. :D

Xanthofile- Lol... and now things have just got even worse... whoopsidaisie? Whipping? Harry and Draco? Sounds a bit kinky though. Um, I hope you feel my updates are worth the wait.

Ice- Don't like sadness? Oh... um... won't like this chapter then. Glad you're enjoying though.

Haily Black- Deine Englisch ist (viel) besser als/dann meine Deutsch. Es ist sehr gut das sie finde mein fic schon. :D Um...mein Fruend ist Deutsch und wann sie haben freie Zeit (in der Zunkunft... in einen oder zweiten Monaten) sie will die Fic auf Deutsch schrieben. Kann sie verstehe das/ Danke.

Emma- Sad... but it may get sadder. Chapter 14 is a little better.

Ura-hd- Well, he was drunk... my friend gets really violent when drunk, he's hit me before... it's actually kinda scary. So maybe it's not so weird that he lost it and got angry. Um, Harry was having flashbacks to his childhood... well, Draco's just made his mistake worse... but it will get better. Thanks for reviewing.

Quardgurl123- Lol... they're having a lot of problems now... but hopefully once/if this clears up, their only problems will be from, uh, outside sources.

Rhalkha- Aw... that's a compliment and a half! Well, here I am updating... glad you like it!

Driven to Insanity- Lol... don't slap Draco, you'll ruin his looks! Then I'd have to redo all my chapters with a bruised Draco! Well, that's Josh for you... he's a bit of a dickhead. Lol.. my holiday is great... I find myself sleeping late though to avoid the heat of the day and staying up till, like, 6am. Ah, I hate mornings anyway. Hope you enjoy your holiday in April!

Wiccan-One- Lol... you are wonderful! I like the way you summed the chapter up: Angst, Fluff, Drunkenness, Sobriety and pleading. So glad you liked it all... I know this chapter was angsty too, and they're having problems, but when/if they make up, they'll be stronger than before. Right? Um... please feel sorry for Draco... just a little. But Harry's my baby! Um... I think my next chapters are all shorter... sorry. But at least they're coming out. That's the attitude!

Chaeli.meep.- Aw... if you review so quickly, then it makes my day 150 better too! Yeah, Draco has been a bit (a lot) stupid but we all make mistakes... although not always twice. Hehe. Thanks for reviewing again.

Moi- Yes, surprisingly quick updates are my key to keeping readers interested... then I disappear for a month back to school, then I'm back again with updates. Glad you agree that we all need some angst. Lets hope you consider the rest of my chapters to be well written... I always worry since the only long bits of writing I do in school are either biology essays or critical analysis of books or poetry for English Lit... not exactly story telling time. Oh well, I think I may be improving.

Trickymidnightdreamer- I look forward to reviews so it works both ways :D. Um... Harry will be a little sadder... whoopsie. But I like happy Harry and Draco too... it's hard for me to hurt Harry. But you gotta be cruel to be kind. Aw, I love it! Harry'll meet Draco's parents in a later chaper... possibly chapter 17 or 18.

Delly- Lol... foreign languages... impressive! Nope, you haven't mentioned Harry's too cute in this... and if you have, well, Harry can never be too cute. Sexy Draco is always hot too. It's nice that you don't find anything noticeably wrong with my spelling and grammar and all, since that's my, 'Uh oh' point. Well, if it's your life at stake, I suppose I could consider continuing writing...

TeeDee- Yes... it tore at me to write Draco being a bastard... but this will be the last time, I promise... maybe. If I feel like it. Um... but I'm also glad you love Draco being a bastard, you split personality person. Yes, fears will need to be eased away. His uncle still scares Harry even though he's locked away... and Draco is meant to be relieving these fears, but at the moment... he's uh, failing? Enjoy your lunch.

MyOriginalIntent- Wow... that was dramatic... yet also disturbingly violent. Noo... don't punish Draco... work with him to make him a better person! Ah, bless.

Dreamerswaking- I promise I will update soon. Happy? Glad you think it's awesome (I've really gotta stop using that word since I use it way too often in this story and real life... damn!). You'll just have to wait and see how things pan out.

HecateDeMort- Thanks :D Again.

Mistress Vamp- Yeehaw! Yes, Draco is stupid for getting drunk, but as you can see, he's gone and done it again this chapter. Well, he did use to be a party animal. But fear not, they will make their way through this together ...if I decide I want to...

Yana5- Um... Draco has... uh... messed up. Bad. You'll see next chapter if he's helped. Or not. Dum Dum Duh... the plot thickens a wee bit... kinda like my cheese sauce, but that's not actually intentional.

Canadian Anime Princesses- Well... you could be flaming which means that you wouldn't like what I write... but screw that since you're cool and leaving me nice reviews. Lol... I love parties... I think New Year was great (7am I came in) and Prom is soon... so wahey! Late is good.

High D- Lol... I absolutely adore the RSC too- I saw the complete works of Shakespeare (but my sisters seen the Shakespeare one, the history of America and the complete works of God one too)... they're soooooo funny, I would go see them again in a heartbeat. And one of them's cute which doesn't hurt either! They wear Converse too which is always a plus point for me. But they're just too awesome for words! You must go see them! Lol... thanks for the review though!

Shola- Well, drunkenness is always a bad thing where Draco is concerned for me. But he had a 'valid' reason for getting drunk (kinda). Lol, hugs, peace and nitric acid!

Lyra Skywalker- Um... sad Harry and Draco? Where? Whoops?

Dragon-Malfoy- If I cheered the story up, then uh... it would get boring. It will get happier soon though. I think chapters 14 and 15 are pretty angst free. :D Thanks for reviewing.

Lalo- Whay... it's cool you like the double perspective bus scene... I actually kinda enjoyed writing it... I really just wanted a little irony in, and also, I wanted to show that Lucius isn't cold hearted. He's a caring father. And he will meet Harry eventually. Yeah, I LOVE Remus and Sirius, but they just didn't fit into my story, so, uh, I killed them. I wanted Harry to be alone... and also, they would have adopted him as a child otherwise if they were alive I guess. Faith in me is always good... as otherwise I'll sulk. Not a pretty sight. I've never heard of the D/H Slash Awards, and I'd never get there, but it's an amazing compliment, so thanks! You're awesome like a hole in the head!

Midnight Ryder- Yeah, well, years of abuse would leave you scarred. Well, technically, in my story, Josh is Voldemort (Tom Josh Marvolo Riddle) and not just related to him... it's just his father is called Tom Riddle too (as in the books, Voldermort was named after his father). But yeah, Josh isn't a cool dude! Glad you like Blaise... I'm very fond of him... he's kinda a mix of some of my friends and me. Yes, Draco is treading on very thin ice as far as Harry is concerned. Uh... a rock garden was the only simile/metaphor I could think of because I'm just that damn cool... lol. Ahh... the magic question... Marmite is a spread that is composed mainly of yeast and salt, is dark brown/black in colour, and the advert for it has the slogan 'You either Love it or you Hate it.' I love it! The advised serving size is 4g per slice of bread... most people find this fine... I feel the need to smother my bread/toast in Marmite and eat it. It kinda burns your mouth but I love it so much especially with bacon and lettuce on a Marmite roll... possibly with a little Brown Sauce. That, my friend, is paradise.

Harial- Thanks for the review... it actually is really helpful. I checked, and found I used 'whilst' 6 or 7 times in that chapter so I've rectified that now. Cheers. Well, I look on the bright side and consider myself privileged that your colleagues read it... but where the hell do you work that allows you to skive off and read/socialise... sounds like my kinda work place! Uh, Harry actually does have offers to Universities... in chapter 2 and 4 it mentions them going off to a Uni that has accommodation and I kinda assumed you would know it was full scholarship (since he's Valedictorian), but I've added that in, in chapter 2 to clarify it's a full scholarship. That means he's all sorted for September when school starts but for the summer, he needs money and a place to stay... he doesn't need to make plans for Uni since they're already made... he just needs to turn up with his stuff in September (at least that's how it works in the UK). Lucius Malfoy didn't actually do a background check... the police files were faxed over from England from the police department- for a reason I won't disclose since it comes into play later- which means they only cover Harry's life up to 12 when he was released from Juvenile. They wouldn't contain his academic success. Lucius Malfoy can't really do a normal background check on Harry as the only records he has are police, school, and orphanage ones; these would all be private, and Lucius Malfoy is an honest man... powerful, but still an honest business man. He doesn't abuse his power by paying people to steal these files. I kinda hope that this clears some aspects up in a reasonable way. Thanks so much for the review though... I find it very useful to correct things I've missed, or not thought of. And I'm so glad you're putting me on Author Alert... that's cool. Hope you continue to read and enjoy. Cheerio.

Wonderclam- See! I told you all that my updates would be faster for a while. Yeah, it was stupid, but angst was necessary and drunkenness can do weird stuff to you... I have friends that get violent when drunk, others that pass out, others that get funny and others that get plain horny. And Draco did use to be a party animal. Lol... I don't care if you need a life... you're too damn cool coz my story is in your top five! That requires a rockin' dance! W00t! You should watch Blackadder... it is possibly the funniest thing I've ever seen (along with Father Ted, Yes Minister, Monty Python, Dad's Army and Fawlty Towers). Aw.. that's sweet that you didn't realise this was un-baeted... makes me feel I've achieved something. Lol... I always put off assignments till the very last day... good luck with your assignment though. I generally dislike poetry muchly.. except war poetry or funny poems/limericks. I like poetry that sounds good but is easily understood- none of this crappy messing around with words. Nooo... Marmite is a brown/black substance made mainly from yeast and salt and (as the advert says) 'You either love it or you hate it.' The suggested serving size is 4g p/slice of bread. I think I must use 10x that and I eat it from the jar... full of iron though. That's good for females. For me, heaven is a roll, smothered in marmite, with some bacon, some lettuce and some brown sauce sandwiches in. Bliss! You should try it...

Lena- A little shake here and there never hurt anyone. But this chapter may. Well, you have to work at relationships, but yeah, Draco messed up! When/if they make up, I'm sure their love will be stronger... possibly... dum dum duh. I'm trying to mislead you a little now so as not to give too much away. But it is hard leaving happy Harry and Draco behind... my fingers keep going to the wrong keys to spell things like F-L-U-F-F instead of A-N-G-S-T and I have to stop myself. Aw... romance is great. Lol... thanks for the compliment on my grades... the best thing is I did no revision. My friends say that's my most annoying trait; doing no work and getting good grades. Lol, I must have conned the examiner somehow. I'm trying really hard this year though because I want to apply for Oxford or Cambridge Uni and I need to have that application sent off before October this year even though I still need to complete the next year of school, take a GAP year first, then go to Uni September 2007. But I'm doing loads of extra curricular stuff though to improve my chances; the pantomime, 2 instruments and touring with the band, the Duke of Edinburgh Silver (that's like 6 months of sport, 6 months of a community service, 6 months of a skill then you have to plan and hike a 3 day expedition), I play on the hockey team, I go to the gym, I took an IT course, Model European Parliament (including a trip to Paris), the Dutch exchange trip, and I'm always out doing stuff with friends like the cinema, bowling, talking, and stuff and now I'm rambling because I'm nervous because I need to write a personal statement for universities to hand in to my head of year after the holidays and I don't know where to start. –Cries loudly-

BratPrincess-187- Aw... I love you in a totally platonic way! Maybe. Lol, so glad I make you smile... how about we work this both ways... you update and make me smile big and cheesily, and I update and make you smile? Lol... it's little things like people updating that make my day perfect... I'm actually loving life at the moment; I'm doing well in school (I was new in September there), I've loads of friends, I've been asked to prom my 3 guys, I do loads of extra curricular and social stuff, I've been eating healthily, I'm in Cyrpus in the sun and you're going to be updating soon... life could not be better. You're the little thing at the end of a good day; the chocolate sauce on a chocolate ice cream so to speak. But I'm just so glad you like my story! Whay... you printed it out (even though it was just coz you didn't have time)... that just makes it seem real to me for some reason (although, in our school library, it sucks because you have printer credit so you can only print a little, and they monitor what you print). Lol, yeah, drunk/jerk Draco is not cool and this chapter was just another example of that... angst and drama do rule... I love your stories with them... I even kinda started this story because of your Love Forbidden and also Some Kind of Feeling. No, Harry won't be able to trust Draco as much so they're going to have to work hard. Ah, I love to hate Josh too... he's just a dick head... but he is necessary. I know where this story is headed, but now I've read other people's stories, I'm not sure if the 'climax' of my story is actually going to be any good. God, I hope it will be. Lol, and yes I truly love you, so here is your update... please don't wither away. See ya later alligator.

Burnt Reflections- I always save you for last (although this probably makes it easier to find your review response :D). Thanks for the congrats... I intend to work really hard this year to try get into Oxford or Cambridge in 2007 so I've been paying extra attention to my studies and I've taken up loads of extra curricular activities and I socialise a lot (hard not to living in a boarding house). English Lit exam was great because we had to study 36 poems in 6 sections of a book, but instead I focussed on 5 (ironically the shortest, all sonnets) and I was determined that no matter what question I got, I would bend it so it fit the poems I liked... boy, did I have to bend that question! My poems were irrelevant to the question (but so were the other 31 poems I didn't like, I thought) I reckoned that I did so badly... normally, if I can't do quality, I do quantity- this time I did neither; it was a short amount of drivel. And I did well? I was ecstatic! Sorry, but I do hate Lord of the Rings... I read the first book, didn't really like that either, and I didn't like the films... but at least you're still reviewing. Lol, I never mind when people go on... I love reading reviews that actually talk about yourself and other stuff not just the story... it is like IM/email. 'Tis fun. Almost as much fun as made up words. You know what's weird? I used to think people that wrote fanfiction were sad people with no life, but then I found out my friend wrote and she's uber cool... and now I write- it's like my secret night time insomniac activity. And let it be clear that I have a life! Chocolate fuelled off-topic discussions/rants are the best! Glad you liked the flow from angst to happy to angst and whatever. Again, the driving lesson was actually added after I'd finished the chapter... it came to me like a boomerang (although I never actually threw the idea away in the first place, but yeah...uh...) but it's cool that you liked it. I love fluff but there is gonna be a lot of angst... crap? It's so difficult to leave my fluffy happy boys behind, but I'm being tough and I am! Marmite, as I explained to some others, is a brown/black substance that is so delicious to me it's unconceivable. A yeast, salt, iron type spread (suitable for vegetarians, no less) which recommends a 4g serving per slice of bread, but I slather it on and it tastes best on a roll with bacon, fresh lettuce and a little Brown Sauce (do they have Brown Sauce in America?) and seriously, I would kill for one of those right now... it makes my mouth water just thinking of it. But, 'You either Love it or you Hate it.' ... there is no in-between!