"You're the youngest Seeker in a century, this is your last possible year to play for Gryffindor, and you've suddenly decided not to play? What in Merlin's name is going on Potter?"
"Erm…" Harry's heart pounded and his palms were sweaty as he gazed back at his Head of House as she stared at him from across her wide desk with narrowed, disbelieving eyes. "I... I can't play because I, uh…" Harry trailed off, mouth dry, regretting his decision to decline Draco's offer of moral support on this one; his mate was always a lot more articulate under pressure. The right words just weren't coming to him. He really should have planned his speech in advance. Why the fuck didn't he write it down before-hand?
McGonagall sighed and waved a hand, summoning a silver tray loaded with a steaming pot of tea, two cups, and a plate of shortbread. "Here Potter, have a drink and a biscuit."
Harry reached for one of the crumbly biscuits while she poured tea for the both of them. "Thank you," he mumbled, pulling his cup towards him but leaving it on the surface of the desk, afraid he might spill it in his nervousness.
"Is Mr. Malfoy behind this unexpected decision?"
Harry choked on a laugh, trying not to spray crumbs all over his lap. "No, he's not. I promise." He swallowed and looked at her with a raised brow. "Do you really think Draco Malfoy could make me stop playing Quidditch just so Slytherin could have a win?"
McGonagall smiled into her tea, acknowledging his statement with a slight nod.
Harry lifted his teacup and carefully set it on his knees, hands wrapped around the delicate blue and white china. He sighed as he stared into his cup. "The reason I can't play anymore is…" He took a fortifying breath. "Is because I'm pregnant."
Professor McGonagall's lips parted in shock and her teacup fell from her fingers and dropped onto the desk, not shattering but splashing hot tea all over the place.
Harry was about to reach for his wand but the Professor had the mess cleaned up and a fresh cup of tea in front of her before he could put his own tea down to help.
She leaned back in her chair, gaze assessing as she swiftly schooled her expression into something a little more neutral. "And…" she cleared her throat. "This was a planned decision between the two of you?"
Harry flushed as he shook his head. "No, er… it just sort of happened." He quickly shut his mouth, realising that prattling on about this particular subject could turn rather awkward.
McGonagall arched a brow, unperturbed. "I would've thought the two of you would be more responsible than that Potter. Especially as this will place both you and your unborn child at risk from your attackers should they decide to make a second attempt."
"It truly was an accident Professor," Harry argued, feeling a sharp pang of unfairness. He hated talking about his personal issues but knew his head of house would have to be told the whole story or else she would think less of him, and that was something he couldn't stand the thought of.
"I sort of have trouble with small spaces," he continued after taking a breath. "And when I went into heat, Ron took me to that small heat room attached to our bedroom and locked me in. I've never really talked about it so it wasn't Ron's fault. I've spoken to Draco about it though, so when he found out, he quickly came and released me." Harry paused, lifting his chin slightly, gaze strong and uncompromising. "It's unfortunate that it happened the way it did, but we're both excited to be fathers and have been taking extra precautions ever since; such as not playing Quidditch."
The Headmistress nodded slowly, pensively. "And who else knows of this? I assume not many as I have not seen it in The Prophet."
"Only a few close friends," Harry affirmed, his anxiety easing a little as it appeared McGonagall wasn't about to scold him. "Ron and Hermione, Professor Garrick, and Draco's parents. Oh and Madam Pomfrey of course."
"Professor Garrick?" McGonagall repeated in surprise. "You've grown rather close with the professor then?"
"He's a friend of Draco's family," Harry replied carefully. "And yeah, I really like him. He's a brilliant DADA professor."
McGonagall was beginning to look a little less gobsmacked now. "Yes, he does seem quite popular with the students," she noted.
Harry grinned and took another biscuit. "Yeah, that's because he's fit. Draco doesn't like me saying that though."
A faint smile finally broke through McGonagall's stern façade and Harry felt the last of his nerves melting away.
"And how is your health Mr. Potter?" she enquired before taking a sip of her cooling tea.
Harry smiled, giving in to the urge to slide one hand over his stomach. His jumper still adequately covered the bump but in a thin t-shirt it was now quite noticeable.
"I'm great," he replied enthusiastically. "Bit of nausea in the morning but it doesn't last long, and Madam Pomfrey said the baby is really healthy."
McGonagall's expression softened. "You seem very happy Harry," she finally surmised in one of those rare occasions when she actually used his given name. "In light of this news, I suppose I will have to accept your resignation from the team. It's a real loss for Gryffindor."
Harry smiled ruefully. "Yeah, I know. I wish I could've played but the baby comes first," he said unapologetically. He paused and his green eyes sparkled impishly. "If it helps, I forced Draco to step down as Slytherin Seeker as well."
The Headmistress actually laughed, looking inordinately pleased by the news.
Harry popped the rest of the biscuit into his mouth and chewed, enjoying the flavour of the delicious Scottish shortbread now that he wasn't gripped by anxiety.
"Have you thought about when - or even if - you will announce your pregnancy?"
Harry washed down the shortbread with a sip of tea before replying. "I'd like to keep it a secret for as long as possible, until they catch those two men if possible. Though that doesn't seem likely anymore," he ruminated with a sigh. "I don't want to stop attending class so… I guess as soon as I can't hide it anymore, I'll just let the news spread on its own?" Harry frowned thoughtfully as he stared down into his cup. "I really don't want the publicity or people trying to push their noses into my family's business. They already judge Draco in nearly every article written about us and I don't want it to bother him." He looked up into McGonagall's sympathetic gaze. "We've thought about finishing school and then going away for a year or two; leaving the country until things calm down a bit."
McGonagall clasped her hands together on her desk's stained ink blotter and leaned forward with a serious expression on her lined face. "People will always be interested in you Harry; I'm afraid leaving the country and then returning - with a Potter-Malfoy child no less - will be of interest regardless of how long you stay away."
Harry sighed heavily as he placed his empty cup back on the desk. "Yeah, I guess. It'd be a nice break for us though. Then we can come back when we feel ready to face the media circus again."
The Headmistress nodded, gaze flicking downwards as Harry reflexively placed a protective hand over his stomach. "That sounds like a sensible plan Mr. Potter," she said with approval.
Harry smiled a little. "It was Draco's idea."
"You certainly have a wise Alpha," she remarked sincerely. "I always believed Mr. Malfoy had the potential to be an exceptional wizard once he was away from Voldemort's influence. He seems a much stronger man these days; unafraid to think for himself or to make his own choices."
"He is." Harry's smile grew as he nodded in agreement, the press' harsh criticisms of his mate ringing in his ears as he added, "and despite what some people think, he cares about me, more than I could possibly put into words."
McGonagall smiled. "I assume he is ensuring you take extra precautions with your safety elsewhere, not just on the Quidditch pitch?"
"Yeah, him and his father," Harry replied with a roll of his eyes. "I wear my father's Cloak everywhere outside of Hogwarts and I don't go anywhere on my own. The only time I'm alone is in the loo."
McGonagall's thin lips twitched with amusement. "And even that small mercy will be taken from you once you have a child Mr. Potter. I hope you're ready for it."
Harry laughed. "Is anyone ready to be a parent?"
McGonagall smiled in response and then seemed to shake her head in wonder. "I must admit Mr. Potter, I can hardly believe that I am sitting here discussing the fact that you will soon be a father. It seems like only yesterday that your father was announcing Lily's pregnancy. " She paused, the memory clearly playing in her mind. "They were overjoyed at the prospect of becoming parents," she recalled, tone gentle. "Much like yourself Harry."
Harry swallowed past the sudden lump in his throat and nodded.
McGonagall cleared her throat and straightened in her chair, the ancient wood creaking as she shifted her weight. "Forgive me Potter; I must be growing sentimental in my old age. Do keep me apprised of your progress and if you have any problems, please notify me immediately."
Harry stood, brushing the crumbs from his trousers, recognising a dismissal when he heard one. "Thank you professor," he said sincerely, and then added with a smile, "I'll let you know if it's a boy or a girl in February, if you want."
"Thank you Potter, I look forward to it."
Harry smiled and turned to leave her office.
"Potter?"
Harry turned to glance back over his shoulder.
"You're not about to wander the corridors alone, are you?" she asked pointedly.
Harry smiled and shook his head. "No, Draco is sitting just outside the door."
McGonagall pursed her lips, attempting to stop the responding smile as she nodded in acknowledgment. "Enjoy the holiday break Potter; sounds like you're going to need it."
Harry grinned and turned away, eager to let Draco know that everything was all right.
. . . .
Harry startled as a fluffy tail whipped in front of his eyes and he suddenly had the strangest urge to swat at it.
"Don't forget you are still Harry Potter, you are still human within the cat."
Harry blinked away from his tantalising tail and looked to Professor Garrick, who was watching him closely from a chair by a large window in the Shrieking Shack, opaque beneath a layer of filth.
Harry tried to calm his mind like the professor had taught him, like all the books had said when discussing desires and reactions whilst in your Animagus form.
Once he had a handle on his mind again, he quietly looked to the professor and waited.
"Good." Professor Garrick nodded in approval, smiling. "Very good Harry. Now I want you to go to the other side of the room and lie down next to Draco."
Harry flicked one rounded ear and then did as he was told. He padded over to the other side of the large, cobweb-ridden room and laid down next to his mate, who was in human form and seated on an old sofa which Draco had cleared of dust prior to deigning to seat his pretentious arse on it.
Draco smiled down at him and his smile was only slightlytinged with strain.
Harry butted his head gently into Draco's leg, trying, in his own cat-like way, to comfort his mate, to show him that he was okay and to remind him that no harm was going to come to the baby.
Draco's expression softened a little. He glanced up at the professor. "Do you think I would be able to touch him?"
Professor Garrick stood and walked closer, blue eyes appraising Harry as he lolled on the ground next to his mate. "Yes, but move slowly. He is still new at this and could lash out at any contact that he does not initiate himself."
Draco nodded and turned back to Harry, whose large emerald cat eyes were gazing back at him demurely. "Don't bite me Harry," he muttered as he leaned forward and slowly extended a hand to stroke the top of Harry's white and black spotted head.
Harry felt a flicker of amusement deep within him at his mate's tentativeness, but it quickly faded as Draco's scent filled his sensitive nostrils. He lifted his nose and sniffed at the arm in front of him, Draco's fingers all-the-while combing softly through his thick fur.
Harry suddenly felt the urge to cower away from the alien touch but also to lean into it. His tail flicked anxiously against the dusty floorboards as he tried to decide what to do.
"Careful now Draco," the professor said warningly, voice low. "I don't think Harry knows quite what to do."
Draco ceased his petting but kept his hand in place.
Harry blinked and then after a moment's hesitation, bumped his head up under Draco's hand, clearly requesting for him to continue his stroking.
Professor Garrick smiled and Draco resumed his gentle petting.
"I think you will be fine in your other form with him," Professor Garrick observed thoughtfully, watching them. "Will you be experimenting with that over Christmas?"
Draco chuckled as Harry began to purr. "Yes, while we're at the Manor. My father will be there as well to help keep my little Potter-kitten in line."
Harry's purring instantly ceased and he issued a soft growl.
Draco snorted, amused, but slowly withdrew his hand from Harry's head and sat back just in case.
The professor nodded, watching Harry carefully, wand out and at the ready. "I wouldn't mock him just now Draco, his mindset is that of a very irrational teenager and I'm not sure what effect the pregnancy might have on that aspect. It could intensify those unreasonable responses to an even greater degree."
Draco nodded, keeping his eyes on Harry as his mate cocked his large feline head to one side, regarding him shrewdly.
"All right Harry," Professor Garrick announced calmly. "I think that's enough for tonight, we don't want to wear you out."
Harry tore his gaze away from his Alpha and stood, shaking his large body and settling his fur back into place. He licked his lips, careful not to catch his tongue on his sharp teeth, like he did the first time he successfully transformed. He concentrated as hard as he could on his human form, ignoring his four paws grounded to the floor and imagining his human body again; reminding himself that he had two feet, legs with slightly knobbly knees, narrow hips and leanly muscled chest, long neck, and a head of messy dark hair, his lightning bolt scar, and his Claiming Mark…
He continued to visualise every minute detail about himself in order to enact the magic required to make the change.
Harry closed his eyes as he felt the transformation begin to take effect. His magic crackled around him and he could feel his body changing shape.
"Well done Harry," Professor Garrick congratulated with a smile as Harry opened his eyes to find himself back to normal.
Draco swiftly stood and put an arm around Harry's waist as he swayed a little.
"Whew, that was… intense," Harry surmised feebly, leaning into his capable mate with a tired smile. He looked at Draco. "I think I almost bit you."
Draco laughed at the bewilderment in Harry's tone. "Yes, highly undeserved as well I might add."
Harry raised his brow, his green eyes slowly gaining more and more focus as he returned to himself. "I doubt that Malfoy," he responded suspiciously. "Don't forget I saw you disrespect a Hippogriff once."
Draco snorted as Professor Garrick stepped forward and ran his wand over Harry's body, checking his magical levels and doing a quick general health assessment.
Draco's smirk faded at the tiny frown on the professor's face. "Something wrong?"
The professor's expression smoothed over as he shook his head. "No, not really. His levels are lower than a normal expectant Omega at this stage, but I attribute that to the fact that he is a male Omega. Pregnancy is known to tax males much more than females."
"Should he stop transforming?" Draco asked sharply.
"No, not yet," the professor replied lightly as he finished his scans. "I would give it a couple more months. But Harry," he added sternly, looking to his student. "No more than one transformation per fortnight and always make time for sufficient rest afterwards. I want you to go straight to your room tonight and have something to eat, preferably chocolate, and remain lying down or at least seated for a couple of hours."
"Aye aye," Harry responded, tone wry but weak. He definitely felt a little more drained than the last time he'd practiced.
Draco frowned but kept quiet, which Harry was surprised and eternally grateful for. He just wanted to return to their room and rest with his mate now.
The three of them exited the room and slowly made their way through the dimly lit tunnel and out into the evening air. What was left of the Whomping Willow was frozen above them, it's incessant and angry thrashing had been somewhat dulled by damage sustained in the final Battle but it still packed a punch when it wanted to. Opening the hidden door always petrified it for a few minutes in order for the occupants to make a safe departure.
Harry walked between the two Alphas, his feet heavy with fatigue; it was arduous enough walking through the deep snow without the added exhaustion from Animagus training.
"Looking forward to Christmas Harry?" Professor Garrick asked as they trudged through the snow.
"Yeah," Harry replied breathlessly, pulling his coat further around himself for warmth. "Mostly I'm looking forward to having a break from Hogwarts. It's just so tiring keeping this secret and pretending that I'm not exhausted by the end of the day, not to mention the crazy hormones and hiding my morning sickness and…" He trailed off, realising he was on a bit of an uncalled for rant. "Er, sorry, didn't mean to whinge like that."
"I think you've earned the right to complain Harry, you're dealing with a lot this year."
Harry snorted. "And last year, and the year before, and the year before that…"
Professor Garrick chuckled. "You're doing well though Harry; there aren't many who could cope with what you've had thrown at you and live to tell the tale. Or at least come out of it still sane."
"Oh no, he's completely mental," Draco refuted with a smirk. "He just hides it well."
Professor Garrick laughed while Harry elbowed Draco sharply in the side.
"Ow, you oaf," his mate exclaimed with indignation.
Harry grinned and Draco's faux outrage turned into an affectionate smile as he slid a strong arm around Harry's shoulders to help support him. His Alpha always somehow knew when he needed assistance without him having to ask. Harry was happy with their unspoken arrangement because he'd always struggled with asking for help, and with such an intuitive mate, he never had to.
The three fell silent as they pushed onwards through the snow and then up the wide entrance steps, careful of the ice frozen over the stone.
They walked through the huge doors and parted ways in the warm Entrance Hall.
Harry groaned under his breath as he eyed the vast staircase ahead of him.
He nearly cried out in surprise when Draco suddenly scooped him up into his arms and started to climb the steps. "Put me down!" he ordered immediately, cheeks heating in embarrassment.
"As long as you keep pushing yourself to the limit Potter, I will do whatever I think is necessary for your health and wellbeing," Draco replied evenly. "And the health and wellbeing of our little plonker."
Harry opened his mouth in outrage but then couldn't help but snort with laughter. "Don't call him that."
"Him?"
"Or her." Harry crossed his arms over his chest as Draco reached the top of the staircase and headed down the corridor to the next set of steps.
Draco glanced at him. "Do you have a feeling of what it could be?" he asked nonchalantly, clearly curious.
Harry relaxed his stiff posture a little, softened by Draco's discernible interest. "Not even a little," he admitted. "But it's early days."
Draco nodded, carefully navigating the steps with his mate in his arms.
Harry smiled and decided to just go with it, relaxing into his Alpha's strong embrace with a sigh and closing his eyes.
"I could get used to this," he murmured.
He felt his mate's responding chuckle reverberate through his chest. "You'll be too heavy when you reach seven or eight months Potter."
Harry was too sleepy and comfortable to be offended; he made a mental reminder to send a Stinging Hex at his mate first thing in the morning.
. . . .
"Would your parents be terribly offended if I wore my joggers to dinner?" Harry asked, standing in the middle of Draco's bedroom at the Manor and staring at himself in the floor-length mirror. It was just easier, not to mention more comfortable, to wear his casual clothing now that his belly was continuously extending outwards and making buttoning his fly so difficult. Apparently male Omegas started to show much earlier than females as their bodies needed time to shift and alter internally to accommodate the foetus.
"I would be offended," Draco replied without looking up. He was sitting on the end of the bed, pulling on black socks and looking impeccable in his black trousers and plum-coloured shirt.
Harry sighed. "Fine," he capitulated sullenly. "But fair warning, I won't be able to eat anything because my trousers will be too tight and then I'll probably faint because I won't have eaten a thing for hours."
Draco laughed and finally turned to look at his mate. "Salazer, can you hear yourself Potter?"
Harry scowled as he slipped out of his soft grey joggers and picked up the charcoal-coloured trousers laid out over the chair next to him. "Yes I can," he replied acerbically.
"Then you can hear how ridiculous you're being. You do remember you're a wizard, right?"
Harry glanced up, fingers struggling with the small black button. "What do you mean?" he replied with a huff, irritation colouring his tone.
Draco stood and calmly walked over, withdrawing his wand as he went. He pointed his wand at Harry's waist and whispered, "Sartor Dimisso Capite."
Harry watched as his trousers gently stretched to accommodate his small baby bump, the button miraculously then re-buttoning itself with ease. Somehow the fabric had changed too; feeling softer against his skin than it had just moments before.
"I'm going to have to learn that one," Harry muttered, glancing up at his mate somewhat sheepishly. "Thank you. And er, sorry."
Draco smiled and lifted his hand to drag his fingers over Harry's Claiming Mark, lightly running the tips of his fingers over the silvery scar in soft soothing strokes. "You can repay me later," he murmured in amusement. "I just want you to be comfortable while enduring dinner with my parents."
Harry smiled and stepped forward to press a chaste kiss to Draco's lips. "I will. And I promise to behave."
Draco smirked. "Why? My parents won't."
Harry laughed as he returned to dressing for Christmas Eve dinner, feeling much calmer. He knew he was becoming moody and that it was mostly to do with the pregnancy, but he couldn't help lashing out sometimes or sniping irrationally at his mate. Luckily Draco took it all in his stride, and more often than not his gentle mocking quickly snapped Harry out of it again.
About ten minutes later, he and Draco ascended the stairs to the entrance foyer and were greeted by a house-elf bearing a silver tray which held one glass of wine and one glass of water.
"Wonder which one is yours?" Draco whispered aside with a smirk.
Harry grinned and reached for the water, wondering if the stern little elf would've allowed him to take the wine instead.
Draco took the glass of red and they both wandered onwards through the house towards the large dining room in the east wing.
Harry gazed at the huge assortment of Christmas decorations as they walked, appreciating the sophisticated and beautiful detailing involved. The richly coloured silk ribbons, delicate baubles, and fragrant Spruce garlands adorned the walls, and nearly every piece of available furniture was embellished with something festive. It was all very tasteful and refined though of course; no gingerbread men with silly faces or sparkling snowmen, only the most elegant of colours and materials had been used. The effect was stunning in its opulence and grandeur, as though Harry was strolling through one of London's poshest hotels.
As lovely as it was, he knew it would never compare to the familiar warmth and cosy atmosphere of The Burrow.
The two mates entered the formal dining room together and Harry smiled in greeting at Narcissa where she was seated at one end, wearing a long crimson-coloured dress that did wonders for her fair complexion.
Harry avoided eye contact with Lucius, who was standing next to a long table laden with drinks along the far wall. He still felt a bit awkward around Draco's father; the last time they were together was the day of Sophie McDougall's party when Mr. Malfoy had said some rather horrible things about the pregnancy.
Harry took a seat midway down the table, carefully placing his water down next to the complicated layout of plates, bowls, silverware and empty crystal flutes - and a myriad of other things which Harry had no idea what to do with.
"Good evening Harry," Narcissa said while he frowned down at the table in bewilderment. "How have you been feeling?"
Harry looked up and couldn't help but smile at her warm expression. She looked cheerful, but also invigorated, as though hosting Christmas for her son and his mate was all she could've asked for.
"I'm fine; just a touch of morning sickness now and again," Harry replied. He glanced up at Draco as his Alpha took the seat next to him. "Erm, I've been a bit emotional too," he continued, turning back to Narcissa. "Poor Draco has to put up with my mood swings."
He thought he'd better put a caveat on his behaviour just in case he made an arse of himself at some point during his stay.
Narcissa smiled in amusement. "And he shall put up with it, right darling?" she said, turning to Draco with one pale brow arched. "Harry will be the one giving birth so I believe you may cheerfully suffer the odd bout of irrational behaviour now and again."
"Careful how you answer that Draco," Lucius interjected warningly as he joined them, seating himself at the head of the table, his long pale hair pulled back in a low ponytail over dress robes the same colour as his wife's.
Draco closed his mouth with a smirk and wisely remained silent, causing Harry to snort as he reached for his water.
Harry nearly upset his drink when a house-elf suddenly appeared next to his elbow with the first course.
"Oh er, thank you," he said to the elf, who frowned censoriously at Harry's acknowledgment of his presence.
Draco snickered as he picked up a small fork from the left-hand side of his place setting. "Don't speak to the help Potter," he uttered out of the corner of his mouth.
Harry grinned as he carefully selected the same fork as his mate. He was too hungry to be bothered by anything else at that point, and the hors d'oeuvres looked and smelt delicious.
"How are your classes Draco?" Lucius asked as he took a sip of wine.
"They're going well," Draco replied officiously. "Top marks in Potions, of course."
"Tied for top," Harry corrected, knowing Draco shared the honour with Hermione.
"Hush you," Draco responded with narrowed eyes.
Harry laughed before spearing a chunk of warm crab cake onto his fork.
"And classes are going well for you also Harry?" Narcissa enquired politely. "It mustn't be easy concentrating with everything that's been going on this year."
Harry paused with his fork in the air. "Uh, not too bad. I mean, I'm passing everything but my marks aren't anything like Draco's. Except in Defence," he added as an afterthought. Harry put the bite of crab cake into his mouth and nearly groaned aloud at the wonderful flavour.
Narcissa smiled gently. "I am pleased that Michael is your professor, I know he will look out for you both."
Harry nodded as he swallowed. "Yeah, I'm not sure how we're going to explain why I'm no longer taking part in spell work anymore. Professor Garrick has been ensuring that we do a lot of theoretical study lately, but he can't keep it up forever."
"We were thinking of possibly faking an injury," Draco interjected as he used his knife to gracefully slice off a bit of crab cake. "That way, no one will question why Harry isn't taking part in class or Quidditch anymore."
"A sensible plan." Lucius nodded, wiping his mouth on one of the silvery cloth napkins.
"How long do you plan to keep the secret though?" Narcissa asked, looking concerned. "If you intend to finish the year then the truth will become quite obvious."
Harry set his fork down and pushed his plate aside, not wanting to fill up when there were still nine courses to go. "As soon as they catch those two nutters," he said bitterly. "Not that we'll be taking out a page in The Prophet to announce it," he added. "But I won't be actively hiding it from the other students or professors."
Draco squeezed his thigh under the table. "I propose no more talk of such things; its Christmas Eve and my first Christmas with my mate, so I ask that we only speak of cheerful things henceforth. Harry needs a break from the stress, and so do I."
Harry smiled gratefully at his Alpha as a house-elf appeared to collect his plate. "Here here," he said in quiet agreement.
Draco returned the smile and left his hand where it was while the house-elves brought in the soup course.
"May we speak of the baby then?" Narcissa asked, eyes softening at the mere mention of her future grandchild.
Harry's smile grew into a wide grin. "Yes, of course."
"Have you planned where you are going to have the baby?"
Draco shared a look with his mate before replying. "We were actually planning to ask if we could possibly have the birth here," he said. "We would prefer the extra security of the Manor as well as having you and father here for assistance. Then, once Harry has sufficiently recovered, we will begin looking for our own home."
"You would be more than welcome here my darling," Narcissa instantly replied, tone warm and eyes sparkling; clearly pleased. "We will bring in the Clan Healer for you as well."
Harry looked up with interest as he swallowed some of his delicious smoked haddock and corn chowder soup. "Is that just in case the baby comes out in Nundu form?"
Narcissa smiled gently and shook her head.
"The baby will be born in human form," Lucius answered from his end of the table. "Nundu children do not generally transform until they are around the age of two or so."
"Oh right," Harry replied, remembering.
"The Clan Healer is brought in because Draco may inadvertently transform," Lucius explained, pale gaze flicking to his son for a moment.
Harry's eyes widened in surprise as he turned to his Alpha. "Really?
Draco shrugged uncomfortably, swallowing his soup. "It's been known to happen when Nundu are under a lot of stress."
"As you know, Alpha Nundu are very protective of their mates," Narcissa clarified, "and if the birth is a difficult one, then there is the increased risk of them transforming under the strain of the situation." She paused and looked up at her husband with a tiny smirk. "They feel useless during the birth because there is nothing they can really do to stop the pain for their mate and it is… challenging for them, to say the least. I remember Lucius being in more distress than I when I had Draco."
Lucius slid his empty bowl aside, a house-elf immediately appearing to collect it from his Master. "That may be an accurate assessment," he conceded in response, eyes glimmering in amusement as he gazed back at his wife.
Narcissa smiled as her own bowl was swiftly taken away and replaced with the next course.
"I've heard that male Omega's almost always have complicated births, so I'd be glad to have the Clan Healer there," Harry said tentatively, setting his spoon down.
Draco stiffened beside him and Harry gave Draco's hand, which was still lying on his thigh, a quick squeeze.
"You will be fine," Narcissa replied firmly. "You are young and strong, and you will have anything you require at your disposal. We will ensure that you are comfortable and taken care of to the best of our ability."
Harry smiled shyly; body filling with liquid warmth at the sincere care and consideration with which Narcissa treated him. He truly felt as though he was a part of her family; as though she loved him as a son.
"Thank you," he said sincerely; hoping those two words conveyed just how deeply he was touched by her consideration and kindness.
It must have worked because Draco flashed him a warm look that shone with gratitude and pleasure.
Harry smiled back before digging into the third course. He hadn't even noticed the elf placing the fish in front of him. He inhaled the wonderful smell of the salmon before placing a juicy bite into his mouth and, again, nearly moaning aloud at the rich flavour which burst forth onto his taste buds.
"When is your due date Harry?" Narcissa asked absently as she cut into her fish.
Harry swallowed before replying. "Around the twelfth of August. Ron's told his parents about the pregnancy, er, Ron Weasley that is, and Mrs. Weasley is hoping for the baby to come a day early, because then they would share a birthday."
He glanced over at Narcissa, wondering what she thought of his adoptive family.
She smiled serenely as she took a delicate bite of salmon. "I know you and our grandchild will be in good hands with Molly Weasley," she commented. "Isn't that right, dear?" she added, looking pointedly at Lucius.
Harry turned to glance at him and nearly chuckled at the look on his face; as though he were having trouble swallowing.
"Yes," he finally replied stiffly, as though with great self-control. "I believe the Weasley family know a thing or two about rearing children."
Draco snorted and then smiled apologetically when Harry glared at him.
"Are you hoping for a boy or a girl?" Narcissa asked, clearly wishing to chivvy the conversation onwards.
"Er…" Harry stared at his food as he replied somewhat reservedly. "I'll be happy with either, but… I am sort of hoping it's a boy. I can't help envisioning a son with Draco's colouring and who is also a Nundu." He stopped and shrugged, suddenly embarrassed. He hadn't even told Draco that little fantasy.
Lucius smiled, for perhaps the first time all evening. "Another Malfoy for the Clan would be a very welcome addition," he said proudly, then paused, glancing at his wife for a brief moment before turning back to Harry. "That is, if you are allowing the child to take both names."
Harry stopped chewing in surprise; he was quite shocked that Lucius wasn't demanding that the child be a Malfoy. Narcissa must have had quite the chat with him in order for him to suddenly show such open-mindedness.
Draco cleared his throat. "We have already discussed this father, and the child will be taking both names."
"Hyphenated," Harry added, still reeling at Lucius Malfoy's progressive behaviour. "Haven't decided in which order though, we just want to see what will sound best once we pick a given name."
Lucius nodded, looking as pleased as it's possible for him to look while still carefully schooling his austere features.
"And will you be sharing these possible name choices?" Narcissa asked with a coy smile.
"Merlin, no," Draco exclaimed, causing Harry to cough in order to cover a laugh. "You will hear the name when it is official - and not before. But be warned, we've already decided to break with tradition and not go with a family name; from either side."
"Oh?" Lucius replied, brow arching in a way which was very reminiscent of his son.
"Yes," Harry confirmed with a nod as his grumpy little house-elf returned with the next course (which appeared to be some sort of wild game accompanied by roasted vegetables). "It'll probably be something horribly Muggle, like Bob."
Draco laughed at his father's stricken expression. Even Narcissa was smirking into her napkin.
Harry grinned; feeling that same happy, warmth washing over him again. A feeling which gave him hope for his future with Draco's family. Perhaps over time, Harry would feel as comfortable with the Malfoys as he did with Ron's family. It would always be a different sort of feeling to that of being with the Weasley's, but Harry thought he could learn to love them both for their singly quirky ways. Even Lucius; if he continued to demonstrate a willingness to be less intolerantly Pureblooded.
"He's joking father," Draco finally reassured when it appeared as though Lucius wasn't quite certain.
Harry stared at Lucius as the man's lips twitched into an unexpected grin.
"Bob Malfoy," he muttered and then chuckled, pale eyes on his plate.
Harry gaped incredulously and then bit his lip to keep from laughing; he didn't think he would stop if he got started.
Unfortunately Draco couldn't conceal a snort next to him and Harry instantly began to laugh. Soon Draco and Narcissa were both laughing along with him, Narcissa's eyes sparkling with mirth.
Lucius merely smirked at the three of them and then began to eat his dinner, utterly composed.
Once they were all under control again, Narcissa dabbing at her eyes with a napkin, they fell into a comfortable silence as they enjoyed the remainder of the meal.
Harry frowned when, after enjoying a small bowl of citrus-flavoured sorbet, the house-elf brought out a large roast and more vegetables. Draco whispered in his ear that it was a palate cleanser and Harry rolled his eyes. Molly Weasley made just as much food, if not more, but it was not delivered with such pomp and circumstance. Harry knew which one he preferred, but he also couldn't help but appreciate the traditional ways of Draco's family.
After another course of salad, sweets (including treacle tart), and then fruit and cheese, Harry was completely full. He couldn't have eaten another bite if he'd wanted to.
They all adjourned to the parlour room for after dinner drinks and it was all very cosy and warm next to the large fire that the house-elves had kindly lit for them.
Harry leaned against Draco's side on the sofa and it wasn't long before his eyes fluttered shut. He never managed to stay awake past nine anymore, and with his Alpha's arm around him, warm and strong, Harry quickly fell asleep.
. . . .
After a lazy Christmas morning lie-in with his mate and a hearty breakfast, Harry, along with Draco and Lucius, journeyed outside into the snow blanketing the Manor grounds.
For the first time in a long while, Harry was feeling energised and cheerful. A night of not having to remember to keep his secret or pretending that he wasn't worn out and exhausted had done wonders for his mental and physical well-being.
Now Harry was planning to practice his Animagus transformation to see how he felt with his mate in Nundu form. Lucius was there as back-up in case there were any problems.
Harry walked down the front entrance steps, careful of the ice, and then moved forward in order to put some space between him and the other two.
He stopped and closed his eyes, taking deep, calming breaths. He could only successfully transform when he was calm and focussed.
He concentrated on the image of his snow leopard appearance and how it felt to be in that feline form; with four large paws, long fuzzy tail, short rounded ears, whiskers, twitchy nostrils and large all-seeing eyes…
Harry felt his body beginning to shift and transform. No incantation, or even a wand, was required to transform, it was more a learned skill than a spell.
When Harry opened his eyes once more, he was lower to the ground and suddenly the world around him was full of innumerable smells and sharp sounds, even the vibrations under his paws from the hundreds of creatures walking and burrowing into the earth miles away suddenly became a part of his awareness.
Harry blinked and shifted his tightly coiled muscles, instantly on the alert. He heard a noise behind him and turned to see a very large black cat. Standing next to the cat was a tall human with pale hair, the smell of magic thick about them both.
Harry started to growl low in his throat but then stopped as the scent of the cat drifted into his nostrils. He knew that scent and it cleared some of the fog from his mind. This was his mate. His Alpha.
Harry instantly dropped his chest to the snowy ground, bum in the air and tail swishing, ready to pounce; ready to play.
Draco's grey eyes gleamed knowingly back at him from the face of the dark cat as he leaned back on his haunches, front legs shifting the weight back and forth between them in a well-known dance, deciding on just the perfect moment to make his move.
Harry could feel his whole body vibrating with anticipation. And then he suddenly couldn't wait any longer; he attempted a funny sort of leap, with all four legs pushing him into the air at once, took a useless swipe through the air with one paw towards his mate, and then turned and ran. He felt distinctly uncoordinated and awkward for the first few strides, as he'd never attempted a sprint before, but he soon got the hang of it and dug in with a growl of satisfaction.
Draco leapt forward, swiftly taking chase. He held back, just off Harry's pace, in order to not end the game too quickly. He was much larger and had much longer legs than his mate's snow leopard.
Harry pounded through the snow, paws throwing up snow in his wake, green eyes bright and sparkling with delight as Draco took pursuit. This was thrilling and exhilarating, almost like being on a broom, locked in a battle of Seeker against Seeker.
Harry veered sharply to the right but didn't make it very far before Draco reached out with one paw and knocked his back feet out from under him.
Harry fell onto his side in the soft snow and then rolled onto his back with an unhappy hiss. He glared up at his mate as he stood over him, Draco's black tail slashing the air and a smug expression on his face.
Draco slowly lowered his massive head and swiped his tongue up the side of Harry's furry cheek in what was clearly a tender show of affection.
Harry felt his ire melt but his cat-like mischievousness kicked back in and he immediately used his mate's unguarded moment to flip over and make a dash for it between his legs and back towards the house.
He could hear Draco pounding along behind him and he emitted an involuntary little chirrup of glee at the thrill of the chase. Draco jokingly called him his kitten and he really felt like it in that moment. He also felt a bit more clear-headed this time around, like he was able to retain his more human thoughts and memories rather than being reduced to his animal counterpart's simple emotions and primal needs.
Harry halted before the steps, where Lucius was still standing in his human form, watching them closely. Harry sat down, breathing heavily. It was the most activity he'd done in his Animagus form thus far and it had certainly taken its toll; both magically and physically.
Draco walked up beside him on silent paws and stood watching with a sharp, assessing gaze.
Harry waited until he had his breath back under control and then transformed into his human self. He made sure to concentrate on appearing with his clothing on; a rather embarrassing mistake he'd made on more than one occasion in the Shrieking Shack with Professor Garrick. Draco was not best pleased with his mate appearing naked in front of another Alpha.
Harry opened his eyes and blinked down at himself, relieved to see that he was fully clothed, including his thick winter cloak.
He smiled faintly up at Draco, who was still in his Nundu form. "I'm all right," he reassured a little breathlessly, knowing that his mate would want to hear it from him. "Just a bit tired, that was a lot of running."
Draco seemed to relax a little at his smiling mate and nodded in acknowledgement.
Harry pushed his damp fringe out of his eyes with a shaky hand. They were meant to return to the parlour soon to open presents and Harry was more than ready to sit down for a while, even after such a short bout of transformation he was completely knackered. He didn't think he would be attempting it for much longer before yielding to his mate's wishes and taking a break until after the baby was born.
Harry remained sitting in the snow for another moment in order to recover before attempting to stand. A secret - slightly horrified - part of him rather hoped that Draco would carry him back into the house.
Harry glanced up when he suddenly noticed Draco stiffening beside him, his dark nose pointed into the air and sniffing.
Lucius straightened from where he was leaning against one of the entrance pillars, uncrossing his arms and peering down the long drive towards the black, wrought-iron gates.
Harry turned to look and his heart leapt into his throat when he recognised the man standing on the other side. The end of the drive was a fair distance but he would recognise that tall, burly form anywhere; it was one of his attackers.
"That's him…" Harry said faintly, staring. "That's one of the men who tried to kill me."
A loud snarl next to Harry made him flinch and then Draco was off, sprinting down the snow-covered drive without a moment's hesitation.
"Draco!" Harry shouted, pushing to his feet, terrified. He began to stagger after his mate but Lucius was suddenly in front of him, a hand to his chest.
"Stay here Potter," he ordered sharply.
Harry looked up at his father-in-law with urgent eyes. "Help him! The other man's probably there too."
Lucius nodded and immediately transformed into his Nundu form before dashing off after his son.
Harry withdrew his wand and began to stumble after them through the snow. His muscles felt like rubber and his magical levels were dangerously low, but he knew if he remained on the grounds he would be protected by the wards, and there was no way he was going to just sit idly by and watch.
Harry kept moving, pushing his glasses up on his sweaty nose as he watched Draco finally reach his attacker through fogged lenses. The man had by now transformed into his Nundu form and was standing with head lowered and teeth bared.
Draco leapt into the air and the other cat rose up on his hind legs, front paws out with claws extended, ready to meet him.
Harry's hand clenched around his wand as the two huge cats fell to the ground; snarling and clawing.
Harry hadn't been sure what to expect when Draco galloped off to hurl himself into battle, he'd never seen Draco fight before, and while the other cat was slightly larger in size, they seemed to be fairly evenly matched in skill.
Lucius had finally reached his son and, just as Harry suspected, his other attacker suddenly emerged out of the surrounding garden in his Nundu form.
Lucius leapt through the gates, passing through the black bars which dissipated like mist at the touch of a Malfoy. He latched his jaws onto the neck of the other cat and dug in his front paws, violently wrenching his victim over into the snow.
Harry kept moving, ignoring the stitch in his side and the slightly faint feeling pulling at him.
The four cats were locked in a heated battle as Harry approached the gates, the white snow under their feet quickly becoming spattered with droplets of blood.
Harry didn't move any closer and kept his eyes glued to Draco; he was now familiar enough with his mate's Nundu form that he could recognise him from a distance, and he wanted to be ready in case Draco needed him.
He didn't think he'd ever been this worried about someone he loved before, and the possibility - however small - that Draco could be killed was at the back of his mind, no matter how hard he tried not to think about it.
Harry raised his wand when Draco was suddenly flipped onto his back and pinned down. He was trying to aim a Stupefy at the large Nundu on top of his Alpha when Draco suddenly used his back legs to push into the angry cat's stomach and successfully shoved him off.
Harry breathed out in relief but didn't lower his wand.
He jerked his head to the right at the loud yowl of pain that suddenly rent the cold morning air. Lucius had received a rather large gouge across his shoulder as he'd been thrown to the ground. He remained lying in the snow, breath coming out in pained huffs and back legs trying valiantly to gain purchase in the snow in order to get back on his feet.
Harry watched with a frown as the other Nundu grabbed ahold of the thick scruff on the back of Lucius' neck and then threw Lucius' injured body over his back, as though to carry him off somewhere.
Harry's eyes widened as he realised the other Nundu was going to attempt to cross the boundary into Manor grounds. Harry took a step back, wand at the ready, as he realised that the man would be able to breach the wards simply because he was touching a Malfoy.
The Nundu narrowed its dark eyes at Harry, zeroing in on its prey with an intensity that chilled Harry to the bone.
"Stupefy!" Harry cast as soon as the beast crossed through the misty black gates.
His spell hit its intended target but Harry didn't have the strength to make it stick, the cat's stride merely faltered for a moment and he quickly shook it off.
Harry took a few panicked steps backwards and nearly stumbled to his knees, the attempted stunner having taken the last of his energy. He glanced past the Nundu to where Draco was still fighting and knew that his Alpha was too preoccupied to help him.
The Nundu tipped Lucius off of his back and then continued to stalk forward, as though toying with Harry.
Harry raised his wand, his hand shaking with the effort. "Protego!" he cast, vainly attempting to erect a shield around himself.
The shield swept around him in a bright white glow but quickly flickered out.
The Nundu suddenly sprang into the air and Harry ducked to one side to avoid the long claws headed for his chest and throat.
The Nundu's claws caught Harry's cloak instead and the cat didn't waste time in jerking Harry over into the snow onto his back, knocking the wind out of him.
Harry let out a moan and then instinctively tried to curl onto his side, one arm wrapping around his stomach in a valiant effort to protect the baby.
The Nundu sank one set of claws into Harry's thigh to hold him still, the nails sinking deeply into the flesh of Harry's leg.
Harry cried out and knew he was dead as the cat's oval eyes targeted his exposed throat.
Suddenly Lucius was there, leaping into the side of the Nundu with a loud thud that seemed to echo across the grounds.
The large cat was knocked away from Harry's prone body and Harry couldn't stifle the involuntary scream as the claws embedded in his leg were suddenly dragged through his flesh before detaching as the cat was sent sprawling into the snow.
Harry forced himself into a sitting position and quickly pressed both hands to the wound, which was now bleeding copiously.
He thought was going to be sick when he caught a glimpse of bone within the jagged wound.
Harry dizzily looked to where Lucius seemed to be beating the life out of the other Nundu with renewed ferocity. Lucius had the other Nundu on his back and had managed to claw deeply into his soft underbelly. The wound across Lucius' shoulder didn't look quite as bad now, the flow of blood having slowed to a trickle.
Harry glanced over at Draco with a whimper as the pain in his leg became almost unbearable.
Like his father, Draco also seemed to have the upper hand now as he snarled down at the Nundu laid out beneath him. There was a large gash across the Nundu's eye and cheek, effectively blinding him in one eye.
The Nundu screeched in pain and, surprisingly, Draco suddenly moved away from him.
Harry grit his teeth and watched through a haze of pain as Draco suddenly transformed back into his human self. His mate withdrew his wand and then deftly Stupefiedthe cat.
As soon as the cat was immobilised, Draco turned and ran to Harry's side, dropping to his knees in the snow, expression writ with fear as he looked at Harry's mangled thigh.
"Harry…" he choked out brokenly, hands hovering uncertainly near the wound.
"Help your dad first," Harry bit out through the agony. "I'm okay."
Draco looked as though he didn't believe him for a second but nodded jerkily and then quickly transformed and rushed off to assist his father.
Harry exhaled shakily, forcing himself to remain conscious; he needed to know that his mate and father-in-law were out of harm's way before he did anything else.
Draco easily assisted his father in subduing the remaining Nundu; holding him down while Lucius transformed into human form and Stupefied him. Lucius was bent over and in some obvious discomfort from his shoulder wound when he stepped back, breathless but keeping a vigilant watch on the two motionless Nundu.
Harry was surprised that they were taking the time to stun the men instead of killing them outright. Harry had thought a Nundu's reputation for bloodlust would know no bounds when it came to matters such as this.
Draco instantly transformed and ran back to Harry, who was by now surrounded by a frighteningly large pool of deep red blood.
"Prohibere sanguis," his Alpha cast softly as he kneeled next to him and held his wand above the wound, his hand trembling. Whether from fear or adrenaline, Harry wasn't sure.
Harry inhaled sharply when the lacerations in his leg suddenly felt as though they were on fire. Draco quickly took his hand and gripped it hard.
Harry glanced down to see that he was no longer bleeding profusely.
"I'm taking Harry back to the house," Draco said as his father limped up beside them. "I don't think Trinket will be able to heal this, and… and we'll need someone to check if the baby is all right."
"I'll have your mother call the Healer," Lucius replied, sounding drained. "We'll have to contact the Board as well, to deal with… other matters."
Draco nodded without looking up. He used his wand to carefully levitate Harry from the damp snow-covered ground and into his arms, holding him as gently as possible.
Harry lifted his head and caught Lucius' gaze. He could see the concern there; a concern for his son's mate that ran deep enough for Lucius to have risked his own life in order to save him.
"Thank you," Harry said to him with unreserved feeling, "for saving my life."
Lucius appeared slightly astonished but nodded in acknowledgment. He quickly turned away and refocussed his attention on the prisoners, preparing to move them to the Manor dungeons, Harry supposed.
Harry tried to breathe through the pain as Draco began to walk with him back to the Manor.
He looked up at his mate's face, his heart swelling with love even under all the distress and suffering. "The baby's okay," he whispered reassuringly.
Grey eyes dropped to meet his gaze and Harry hated seeing the expression of anguish and vulnerability on his love's face.
"The baby's okay," Harry repeated confidently before finally drifting into unconsciousness.