Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/8287871.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence, Underage
  Category:
      F/F, F/M, M/M, Multi
  Fandom:
      Harry_Potter_-_J._K._Rowling
  Relationship:
      Lucius_Malfoy/Original_Male_Character(s), Hermione_Granger/Severus_Snape
  Character:
      Original_Male_Character(s), Lucius_Malfoy, Draco_Malfoy, Severus_Snape,
      Hermione_Granger
  Additional Tags:
      Gay, Gay_Sex, Original_Character(s), Non-Canon_Relationship, Age
      Difference
  Stats:
      Published: 2016-10-15 Chapters: 16/? Words: 23451
****** A snake and a badger ******
by Amethyrine
Summary
     Ministry introduces another law- this time to protect the almost non-
     existent wizarding culture. Muggleborns and orphans are tied to
     another wizard by marriage. What happens if an simple hufflepuff gets
     thrown into a world of strict rules he will not abide?
     This story is a mess. You have been warned :)
***** Chapter 1 *****
Jasper has never been a talkative person. He could talk with his friends, but
he hated useless noise. It usually meant something was not working or people
were chatting aimlessly about the quality of their omelette.

This time around however even the pleasant quiet was unnerving to him. He could
hear his heart pounding as he was handed a copy of the law by professor Sprout,
along with a list of students affected by the law.

The ministry was absolutely nuts in Jasper's opinion. It wasn't just the fact
that ancient geezers were deciding upon the future of a younger generation, no.
This law was just insane. Jasper pursed his lips in anger, as he scanned the
table. Some students were as pale as ghosts, with their friends trying to calm
them down. Some girl was crying, her tears wetting the parchment.

The new marriage law was something that infuriated many. Yes, wizarding culture
was deteriorating slowly, but that was no reason for this to exist. Jasper
looked at the list, finding his name among the many others. He was thankful for
the school staff to provide them with something like that and he almost felt
compelled to walk up there and thank the teachers.

However first he dug into the announcement, reading it once again. Every
muggleborn or orphan was to be married to a pureblood or half-blood as soon as
possible. Jasper was sure that there was no arguing with the ministry as the
head man himself was completely crazy. It's not like anyone would listen to
them anyway.
Jasper cursed his own life. He was an orphan for about six years now, when he
lost his parents at the age of nine. So he had no choice, but to go for an
interview with a ministry representative to find a spouse. Jasper felt his
heart sink as he stood up and he walked to the teacher's table. Not one of them
was eating, but looking over the children. The nurse was helping a few of them
with panic attack. Jasper blocked out his feelings, pushing them away as he was
taught during his post-traumatic counselling. He wouldn't call that therapy,
because he was not even slightly better, but some things turned out useful. He
has been the head representative of hufflepuff for a year now, helping
professor Sprout keep everything in order and bringing the house together. His
hard work has shown results last year, but if some of the students will be torn
from their previous life something would remain broken.

Jasper would never abandon his education, he wanted to learn and eventually
pick up where his parents left. He wanted to prove the world that magical
creatures weren't bad. He wanted the world to understand them, but the years of
propaganda have slimmed his chances of a big success. His parents only managed
to help from their house in the woods. Jasper's plans were much more ambitious.

The blond walked to professor Sprout, who smiled at him compassionately.
"Everything alright?" She asked, trying to sound cheery, but it didn't work at
all. Jasper cracked a bitter smile as the other teachers stared at them in
surprise.

"Define alright." He answered ironically, looking around his shoulder at the
table. Each and every one of them were looking at Jasper with hopeful eyes and
yet he couldn't change anything. They all assumed he got the papers to keep
order. "You erased my name from their lists, didn't you professor?" Jasper
asked quietly and the woman smiled at him sadly.

"I know I'm asking much from you, but give them hope. Just be the person you
always were for them." Professor Sprout looked at him with her hazel eyes and
Jasper nodded, clutching the paper in his fist.

"The extra curricular activities will carry out as last year. Will you please
provide me with the tables for each year?" Professor Sprout nodded smiling.
"10 points to you Jasper." She said, standing up. "I'll hand them to you during
our next lesson."

Jasper nodded dutifully, suddenly seeming much older than he was to everyone
else. He turned around, a gentle mask in place of his previous, serious
expression. He moved to his housemates talking to them and trying to lift their
spirits. That's what he was here to do. He was supposed to give hope after
Cedric died, keeping everything busy in his place. He was a distraction,
keeping everyone from being devoured by depression.
***** Here comes a thought *****
Jasper stood in front of the crowd gathered in the common room. The interior
was mostly grey with bright accents, which liven up the place a bit. Jasper
felt nervous, but he kept himself from playing with his fingers.

"I know there has been some bad news around ever since we started this year and
it's getting in the way of everyone's plans. However I've decided to do
something a bit different than last year. We're still going to do fitness
classes and all that." Jasper smiled as a group of girls started cheering.
Sport kept them in shape and allowed them to relax. "Adding to that I'll try to
organise an assertiveness class. You might be getting married to someone you
don't know or even don't like, but that doesn't mean you have to allow them to
abuse you. I know that this law is awful..."

"You don't know shit Jas!" A boy from the fifth year shouted at him, crossing
the arms on his chest. "You are not even on the list."

"I am." Jasper shook his head. "Professor Sprout wanted to give me a choice
whether or not I still want to hold my place in the current situation." He said
and he saw quite a few mouths fell open at the news. Jasper winced knowing he
would have to explain a few things. "I chose to stay here and try to help us as
much as we can. I want the one's on this list sure they can live the way they
want even if you haven't willingly chosen your partner. "

"Do you have a teacher in mind?" Sam asked, playing with her long ponytail. She
focused her piercing brown eyes on Jasper.
"I thought about asking professor Snape for a class about building basic mind
shields. I'm going to ask headmaster for help with the whole confidence thing.
Maybe a personal trainer or a motivational coach if we'll manage that." Jasper
answered. "But as always I'll take suggestions and see where I can take them."

"Will the cooking class continue?" One of the guys asked.
"Professor Sprout didn't mention cancelling it, so I think she would be happy
to teach us something more." Jasper smiled at the guy. He enjoyed the cooking
class himself, as well as the fitness class. It seemed weird for a guy, but
soon all the stereotypes broke down and they all began training in mixed
groups. They easily found students engaged in one sport or another and those
became teachers, making everything run smoothly.

"My dad's a motivational trainer." On of the girls rose her hand. "I'll ask him
for help and see what I can get."
"Thanks, that would help a lot." Jasper smiled and and applause arose. The girl
blushed red as her friend hugged her. Jasper barely recalled that the friend's
name was Alice, because he saw it pop up on the list. "I'm going to talk to the
headmaster tomorrow before the interviews and plan everything out. Could you
send an owl today?" The girl nodded with a grin. "Okay. Then good night and
welcome back."

Jasper watched as the students walked to their rooms. As the room emptied he
pulled out an electronic fag, walking out. He moved through the empty kitchens
and outside through the back door. The dishes were magically washed in the
sinks, but apart from that everything was quiet. The house elves stopped
bothering him as he didn't interfere or steal anything.

Jasper breathed in and the small black box activated, creating a cloud of white
smoke. He clung to it as if it was the last stable thing on earth. Jasper
brushed his hair back, letting the smoke out of his lungs. "What the fuck am I
supposed to do?" He asked the ether and he was almost disappointed when he got
no answer.
His legs carried him away from the castle and near the lake. He passed the mass
of water, turning to the forbidden forest. Honestly, this was his favourite
place on earth. It was calm and gentle. He absolutely loved it.

The natural magic was in the air and it was delightful. Jasper looked up as the
first drops of rain started falling down on the ground and on him. He pulled
out his wand, thankful to have his heavy shoes on. The ground could quickly
turn to mud, but he didn't mind. Magic made everything easy to clean.

Jasper created a see through umbrella and hid his wand. He was a well-known
guest to the forest, always finding it relaxing. The centaurs knew him well and
always seemed more than happy to talk. There were little people who just
listened. Jasper liked their calm lectures about stars and natures. He even
enjoyed the chaotic packs of werewolves far north-west. They were weird upon
first contact, but with time and centaurs' protection Jasper was allowed to
study them after he was almost crushed by the alpha, who left his scent all
over him. Thanks to the however he could roam freely around the camp. He always
stayed away from the pups though, not wanting to interfere with the most
precious things. The bitches seemed to like him a lot quicker than the males as
Jasper offered his help in cooking. He seemed to have grown on the guys after
the meal.

This time Jasper preferred to be alone as he wandered away from the centaur
camp on the verge of the forest. He would be glad to see Firenzo some more, but
he really needed to gather his thoughts. It wasn't good. Jasper could hope to
come across a half-blood, someone with a less extreme point of view, but
everyone's opinion on magical creatures were the same- they're dangerous.

Goblins were bashed for their managing skills and greed; house elves were
considered stupid, but smart enough to serve; centaurs were weird and talked
nonsense; werewolves were aggressive and dangerous. The list went on and on and
it made Jasper sick. He loved those creatures. They were all breathing like he
did and he never understood why people bashed him. Jasper watched water drip
down from his umbrella.

"What am I supposed to do? I'm so lost." Jasper sighed, closing his eyes. He
wondered who they would pair him with. He just wanted to have a family and do
what he wanted. Jasper returned to the castle no less lost than he was when he
walked out of the castle.
***** Control *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
"Jasper." The blond turned around and he smiled, seeing professor Sprout walk
up to him. She handed him a small stack of papers and the teen looked it
through. "Albus told me about the personal training class. That's an excellent
idea!"

"I'm glad you like it professor. I wanted to see how everyone involved reacts
to the idea. Megan is going to ask her father for a few speeches, maybe they'll
give some of us some confidence." Jasper said with a smile. They were divided
into groups and he was now waiting for his turn. Jasper felt nervous and he
tried to shake that awful feeling off, but it stuck to him. "I'll set the hours
today with the groups. Not everyone will be happy, but it'll have to do."

"You'll manage. You always have been." Jasper nodded as professor Sprout patted
his arm smiling warmly. Most of the hufflepuffs called her the 'mother badger'.
Jasper just couldn't imagine anyone in her place. She was gentle and warm, she
seemed like such a pushover, but maybe that was just the thing about women.
They were so different when they cared about something. It wasn't a bad thing,
Jasper loved being around women, they were the most fun. When it came to
something important they were ready to fight more than anyone else. He
remembered his own mother in moments like that- fighting for their dream, a
dream that Jasper wanted to follow.

One of the girls he was talking with was called in and they settled on the
couch. it was just the two of them left. Him and Monica, who was a half-blood,
but she wasn't raised in a wizarding community. The ministry did their research
and they knew what questions to ask. "How can you be so calm?" Monica asked,
rubbing her arms with her hands. She could barely sit down in one spot.
"I have a dream." Jasper started.

"Oh, don't tell me it's something along the lines of 'have a happy family'."
Monica rolled her eyes. They have found out that a few people have signed up
for the program on their own. Of course their parents have been asked for
permission and some said no, but quite a few of them agreed. "No motivational
talk."
"I'm serious. I want people to change the way they think about magical
creatures. That's what my parents did. I want to get my education and reach my
goal. I don't care if my partner disagrees. That's my dream and I'm living for
it if we don't get along. Just find your end goal and press on for it." Jasper
said with a smile. "No one's going to stop me."

Monica chuckled. "I'm so glad you don't want to be a Disney Princess." Jasper
laughed quietly. He felt much more relaxed talking again and not having to
worry. He usually liked quiet, but not when he was nervous. There were some
limits.

When Monica was called in he was the last person left and when the door shut
close the silence made him tremble. Jasper glue his eyes to the door, hoping
they will open any second and he'll be allowed in. He couldn't relax as he
started moving his feet around the floor. He felt as if suddenly he was waiting
in the wrong place, as if the room moved on it's own and it was now in a wrong
place. Jasper couldn't quite place the moments when he liked silence. It was a
very bizarre thing for him.
He hated being in empty, cold rooms void of people. He was alright with little
buzz as long as people were around. He hated shouting in every situation. He
felt so insecure alone, as if he was in the wrong place. He didn't know if it
was anxiety, but that unnerving feeling made him twitchy. He starting pacing
around just trying to keep himself from thinking he was in a wrong place at a
wrong time. What if they won't call his name out? He checked the lists near the
great hall at least a thousand times, trying to make sure he was in all
certainty at the right place.

After a really long time the door opened again and Jasper was invited in. He
entered a classroom like any other and he looked at the man sitting behind the
desk. There were two men present in the room. The one who called him in sat
near the wall silently. Jasper was showed a chair and he took his place in
front of the desk. For some reason he felt as if he was interrogated. He
trembled trying to keep his thoughts at bay. It was ridiculous to thing someone
would tie you to that chair and torture you, but he couldn't help it.
He didn't like the talk at all. When he admitted being gay he heard the other
man snorted at him. Jasper hated being disrespected for what he liked. He just
wanted to be treated like everyone else.
He felt just a bit better when the man behind his desk glared at his colleague.
"You're the first one so far in this category. I'll see what we can find." The
man said at the end and Jasper just nodded ready for something like this. The
blond stood up and walked out of the room not even waiting to be let out by the
other man. He just turned around to see a surprised face and he smiled
mockingly, closing the door behind him.
Jasper hated being angry, he absolutely despised that feeling. His eyes always
got watery and he couldn't stop it until he calmed down. Right now his eyes
were gloss and at the verge of spilling over. Jasper entered the bathroom,
closing himself in a stall and brushing off the tears. He just hated it. People
always thought he was a big crybaby, but he didn't want to cry. It was so
frustrating for him. Anger made him cry and it was the worst. Where others
could just went out he had to turn his anger into annoyance. Then he just
hissed at people in frustration at his own feelings hurting them, but at least
he didn't cry. Jasper growled in frustration.

The blond held his breath for a while, controlling his breathing. Nothing was
an immediate solution to this problem so he just had to be patient. He was just
so glad he was spared this period because of the interviews. Finally Jasper
left the bathroom, feeling more or less in control of himself. He hoped it was
just because he was a teen, because that was so frustrating. He had to stop
himself from thinking about the situation or else it would just come back to
the same point.

Jasper just hoped it would stop before he got married. He moved to his next
class, hoping nothing will ever anger him again in this life.
Chapter End Notes
     I'm just an angry crying clod.
***** An Ally *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
"They just asked about a lot of stupid 'dating' things." Jasper groaned,
straightening his clothes as he finally reached the dungeon. He understood that
they were curious- he got that, but he was just tired. He wanted his lessons to
be over.
There was also talking with professor Snape that Jasper was sure wouldn't be
easy. That man was hard to convince. The only two advantages he had were that
he wasn't named Potter and he wasn't from Gryffindor. Jasper endured the period
of potions, which he enjoyed. He liked the silence in class and he just brushed
off the atmosphere of terror.
After the lesson Jasper remained in class as the other students tried to
evacuate as fast, but silently. The blond moved closer to the desk, waiting
patiently for the teacher to stop noting something.
"Yes?" Jasper heard finally and his eyes met Snape's onyx ones.
"As you know Hufflepuff organises extracurricular classes. Due to the new law
we would like to ask you to give a lesson or two about mind barriers." Jasper
said, straightening himself. Snape rose one of his eyebrows and looked at him
as if he was crazy.
"You know a training like this takes years?" Snape asked him, smirking.
"I am aware professor. I didn't ask you just to seem stupid. Yes- this lecture
may seem to be pointless to you, but it can give some psychological comfort to
students, who will marry strangers." Jasper answer and Snape straightened in
his chair. He didn't expect an answer like that from a teenager.
"I'll do it, but I want everyone listening and taking notes." Snape said and
Jasper nodded, smiling lightly. "Talk over the hours with your house and I'll
come to your common room after dinner."
"Yes professor." Jasper nodded and he exited the class.
[+++]
"So how long before you get your 'one true love'?" Jasper rolled his eyes at
one of his friends. The law has turned into an ironic joke among students by
now. Everyone was sick of ministry officials walking around the castle after a
week. They just wanted to return to normal, but with the matches it will be
impossible. Jasper was more than anxious to get to know his future husband- if
they even managed to find him one.
They were sitting at breakfast, but barely anyone was able to eat. The whole
school was present though, waiting for the results. He envied his wizard-raised
friends so much.
He like normality and he was terrified of such big changes. He felt a hand on
his arm and he looked at Alan, a pureblood wizard with a muggle-friendly
attitude and a big heart. "You'll be alright. I'm sure they picked you someone
nice."
"Knowing my luck they pair me with the blasted Voldemort himself." Jasper spat
out and his friends laughed. It was a bitter laugh, but a laugh none the less.
Voldemort was gone for good. He wasn't dead, but it was better than anything.
For now Dumbledore sealed him in a tower in an unknown location, while here
they worked on destroying him.
For now the main madman was dealt with.
Jasper froze as a ministry official appeared in the doors with a stack of
emvelopes floating beside him. He stood before the teacher's table and all eyes
followed his every move.
Jasper trembled in fear for what he would see inside. It would determine if his
future would be happy or full of regret and fighting.
The man, who Jasper recognised as the one from the interview, started reading
out names and handing envelopes to individual students. When his name was read
Jasper moved to the man on his shaky legs. He received his own letter and he
returned to the table not really sure if he ever wanted to open it.
"You will be introduced to your partners today or tomorrow based on their
schedule." The man informed at the end, then walking out of the great hall.
Jasper stared at the envelope blankly.
He could hear a few students walking out to read their envelopes alone.
"Go out Jas." The blond looked at Alan, who was trying to calm him down.
"Yeah, you're right. I fucking hope you're right." Jasper said anxiously,
standing up and walking out. He could see a few confused faces as he walked out
of the room.
This morning was surprisingly warm for September. Jasper stepped onto the
school grounds with the intention of finding himself a private spot. Suddenly
he spotted a girl sitting on a bench. He walked closer and after giving it
absolutely no thought he sat next to her.
Hermione Grenger looked at him surprised. "Don't worry, I'll keep you company
by crying my eyes too." To his surprise the girl cracked up a weak smile.
"I'm screwed." She said, looking at the envelope. Jasper couldn't help, but
peak at the name.
"Snape? You could have ended much worse." Granger glared at him as if he just
won the award for the biggest idiot "Think about it. He's intelligent, he
values education and independence so he'll let you have a career. He's the
youngest potion master and he maybe isn't that nasty as a person. Even if he is
then you can just dive into your work."
Hermione pursed her lips together considering his words. Then she just hugged
him silently. "Thank you. Not one of my friends would say something like that."
Hermione admitted. "Open up yours. It can't be that bad."
Jasper winced, not sure if she was correct. With trembling hands he broke the
ministry's waxed seal and he opened the envelope. He took a deep breath,
sliding out the letter, or rather an announcement. Jasper prayed for someone he
knew wasn't bad. He would even settle for the old-as-the-world Dumbledore right
now just to be sure he was able to have a decent future.
When he read the name he felt as if his soul was trying to go to heaven
prematurely. Jasper closed his eyes shut as tightly as he could, praying for
this to be a joke or a mistake. He knew it wasn't.
Hermione gently took the paper from him and opened it. She glanced at the
hufflepuff not even sure where she could start. For all she knew Lucius Malfoy
was the biggest assbag she has ever come to know . If Draco was any indication
of what's to come that is. His personality might not even be the biggest
problem for Jasper. His political opinions mattered much more taking his life
goals. Plus Malfoy Senior was a politician. Jasper knew he was fucked, he would
have to fight hundred times harder to do what he wanted.
"It's fucking awful. I knew it." Jasper said finally, opening his eyes. He felt
his stomach sink and he trembled. He won't be able to eat anything today for
sure. "I'll be okay." He added seeing Hermione's expression.
"Are you sure?" She asked, looking at the blonde. Jasper didn't seem well at
all. He was pale and shaking visibly, but she felt that it would be
inappropriate to tell him that. He seemed to be keeping together in his own
opinion and she decided to trust that.
"I hope so. Promise me one thing?" Hermione nodded, hearing his words. She was
ready to do anything and support this guy. She didn't even know him, but they
were going through the same thing. Hermione smiled gently, trying to keep her
new friend above the water instead of letting him drown. "Come visit with
Snape, okay?"
"I will." She assured him and Jasper smiled weakly. At least he had the hope of
seeing Hermione once in a blue moon. He would go crazy if the only interactions
he had were with his husband. They both stood up, realising it was too late to
just keep sitting there. Everyone started returning to the castle. Some faces
were hopeful, other completely devastated. It was just a mess.
The reality was hard to face for Jasper, but at least he would confront it
quickly. Today at eight he had to meet his future husband. Jasper was sure
Malfoy won't be satisfied with him- there was nothing special to him. His
opinions won't earn him anything in the man's eyes and neither will his body.
Jasper lived off of his parent's and his own health insurance as he couldn't
access the vault until he was officially an adult. His lawyer managed to
negotiate him living in his parent's house before the money ran out.
Jasper usually saved up the whole year just to be able to buy his books in the
summer. It was hard, but he managed. Now it was going to be different and he
felt at the thought of not coming back to the house he loved so much. Or worse-
bringing Malfoy inside to take his things. It would just tear him apart to see
someone criticise that place.
Jasper started walking towards his next class and they split at some point
promising to talk some more later. He just hoped he will at least get along
with Hermione and they could remain friends. He felt like he would need that in
the coming months.
Chapter End Notes
     PerSonNee: I'm glad I'm not the only one! Also thank you for your
     comment <3 I'm so happy someone likes my work!
     Also I'm sorry if there are any mistakes! I don't have time to play
     around with beta's, but I'll correct any mistakes if i see them!
***** Silence *****
Jasper looked into the mirror in the bathroom. "Oh, come on. You look fine
Jas." The blond closed his eyes, and sighed, hearing Alan from the other side
of the door. Jasper finally left the bathroom and one of the guys slid in,
obviously needing the room more than him. "You look good."
"It's the only nice clothes I own, why am I even bothering?" Jasper sat on his
bed. He was sure what he was wearing was inappropriate and will be nothing
compared to what the Malfoy would be wearing. Jasper was also annoyed by the
allergic rash he got the other day. It wasn't really noticeable from the front
as it appeared near his ears, but it was still on his face.
"Want me to borrow you something?" Alan offered, sitting on his bed in front of
him.
"No, there's no point in this." Jasper said. His friends really weren't sure
what to say as they had no idea who he was meeting with. Only Hermione knew and
she was as silent as a statue about it. He wanted to keep it a secret and not
have to worry about hid friends pitying him. Jasper just wanted to throw up and
stay in bed, pretending he's sick. There wasn't a chance this meeting would go
well.
"Stop that. He accepted you, he must have had a reason." One of the guys said
in their last attempt to make him feel better.
"Making me miserable is the only thing that comes to mind." Jasper answered,
brushing his hair out of his face. "I'm going." He said. He still had an hour
to go, but he would much rather worry about it alone. Or maybe he could listen
to some music while waiting. Without another thought he took his headphones and
phone, putting them in his pocket. Jasper stood up and straightened his
clothes.
"See you. Don't be too hard on the guy, whoever he is." Alan said and Jasper
smirked. He walked into the common room. He was surprised to see professor
Sprout, seating inside with a parchment roll.
"Go to professor Snape's quarters and he'll tell you more. That's all I got
Jasper." She informed him and the blonde nodded. He sighed as his feet carried
him to the dungeons. He hoped he was dressed well enough and that they won't be
going outside. They weren't supposed to leave Hogwarts, but maybe Malfoy was a
different story. Jasper placed one earplug in his ear and putting on a slow
song.
He stood before the heavy doors and knocked on them gently.
The door opened after a while and professor Snape appeared in them. He wasn't
dressed in his normal black robes to Jasper's surprise. This time his outfit
consisted of a grey shirt and black trousers. He still looked formal, but less
terrifying than usual. Moreover his hair seemed clean and brushed neatly, which
surprised Jasper further.
"How're you Jasper?" Hermione said, suddenly appearing behind the man. She was
wearing a pretty, blue dress and white shoes, everything linked with sparkling
jewellery. Her hair was tied into an elegant bun. Jasper smiled seeing that she
didn't seem to stressed, just reasonably uncomfortable. Snape seemed to allow
her to chat with him, seeing that they knew each other.
"You look great Hermione." The blond complimented her and she smiled, blushing
slightly. She seemed surprised and happy to see him. Behind them Jas could
notice a tea set with some cookies on the coffee table. Snape seemed to take
Hermione's upbringing into consideration and Jasper was sure it won't be the
case with Malfoy. He felt jealous of his female friend.
"You too." The brown haired girl smiled and Jasper rolled his eyes jokingly.
"I'm serious." Jasper nodded this time. "You'll live."
"Thanks for the encouraging words." Jasper said sarcastically, but Hermione
just shrugged. Snape cleared his throat, bringing the blond's attention to him.
"Quarters on the fifth floor. Behind the aristocratic portrait." Snape said and
Jasper could hear entertained tones in his voice. The blond almost had the urge
to facepalm himself. "The password is 'snake'."
"Good thing he's so generic. I would forgotten something more obvious." Jasper
rolled his eyes, sure that Malfoy was taking him for an idiot. Suddenly his
eyes lit up as he held his head a little higher. "Do I choose the breed?"
"Are you going to argue with the portrait?" Hermione asked, leaning outside the
door frame as Jasper started walking back up. The blond turned around with the
biggest grin she has ever seen and just shrugged. His eyes were sparkling and
the girl chuckled. If anyone would give Malfoy senior hell it was that guy.
He disappeared around the corner humming to himself. He changed the song to
something more energetic as he focused on his goal. He'll make Malfoy give him
up. If he didn't like what he got he would just give it up. Jasper would be an
extremely inconvenient person to be married to. The teen wasn't going to change
in the name of political correctness.
Jasper made his way up slowly, trying not to get tired. He hated going around
aimlessly. Finally he stood before what he considered a generic portrait of an
aristocrat. He stood there for about five minutes in silence just watching the
portrait. The man was tall and slim, his brown hair in prefect order. His
clothes looked brand new and as if they were ironed after the man has sat in
the chair. Jasper could see the portrait's confusion, but he kept thinking
about what kind of snake he should choose to start an argument. He wanted to
play dumb. So painfully stupid that Malfoy would dump him on the spot.
Finally Jasper opened his mouth and to his surprise the portrait seemed to take
him really seriously. Suddenly the blond started giggling quietly, unable to
contain himself seeing the expression on the painted face. He calmed himself
quickly and to his surprise the aristocrat was standing up now, watching him.
Jasper felt that the first stage of his approach worked and the portrait
considered him and least mentally unstable. If Malfoy worked the same way he
had him where he wanted.
"Ball python." Jasper said finally with a perfectly normal expression as if he
was really expecting the portrait to let him in. The blond knew full well what
he was doing and how annoying he could be to other people. The portrait looked
baffled for a second and then he furrowed his eyebrows.
Jasper looked in disbelief as the man disappeared on the other side of the
door. He growled annoyed as his plan was quickly ruined. "Oh, for fuck's sake."
He mutter under his breath. He didn't want to do this. He had absolutely no
desire to meet another men and get into relationships and yet he will probably
be married by the end of November. 'Let's meet mister Luscious hair. I'm sure
he waits there for me, baking cookies and preparing hot chocolate as if he ever
stepped into the kitchen.' Jasper talked in his head, trying to keep himself
more or less motivated to be annoying and sarcastic. 'I'm sure he'll love me-
I'm so charming it should be called Jaspering from now on.'
"Ball python? Really?" Jasper froze in his place. He didn't hear the door open
and he was taken by surprise. He turned around quickly not feeling comfortable
with having people behind him when he was alone. His facial expression must
have showed how enthusiastic he was about the meeting, because Malfoy senior
smirked at him.
Jasper could feel his icy, blue eyes scanning him and he did the same, crossing
his arms on his chest. He was a bit relieved that Malfoy decided not to dress
like the king of the world today. He was wearing simple robes, something
similar to what he was used to with Snape. "A snake is a snake. Educate the
portrait if you're not going to be precise." Jasper answered, not even
bothering with addressing Malfoy in any special way. If they were supposed to
be spouses then Jas didn't see such necessity.
"Severus didn't mention you being so bold." Malfoy looked at him. Jasper pursed
his lips together. He hated the fact they were now playing a game, which the
older man seemed to enjoy.
"Professor Snape is a professor. I would rather not fail a year just because I
lack the basic common sense." Jasper answered and stepped into the quarters. He
looked at the table for two, which was set up in the middle of the room. There
is no way he will swallow anything today. His body was denying him any ability
to eat and Jasper wasn't in the mood to force himself.
He was uncomfortable and Malfoy must have noticed that Jasper was very wary of
him. He had his eyes glued to the older man as if expecting an attack. "Can you
calm down?" Malfoy asked him, moving to a counter. To Jasper's surprise he saw
not only drinks like tea and coffee sitting there. He recognised iced tea, some
coke and other muggle drinks. That was a bizarre thing to look at. "These are
in case you think I'm trying to poison you."
"Why would you? Killing me after we get married is much more logical." Jasper
said, walking up to the bottles. He took a glass and looked through the
bottles. Finally he chose sugar-free green tea, pouring some into his glass.
"Severus described you very differently." Malfoy stated. This time there was no
sarcasm or anything else in his voice for that matter.
"You ask a dungeon bat for his opinion on a 16 year old Hufflepuff?" Jasper
asked and to his surprise Malfoy chuckled. "Of course I'm acting. I'm the head
boy of Hufflepuff. My job is to get things done quick and without trouble. I
have to be nice to everyone- that's how it's always been. Plus I'm not really
happy to be here as you might have noticed. I'm not particularly enjoying the
idea of being force into a marriage."
"That's understandable." Malfoy nodded, not even a trace of emotion flashing
across his face. Jasper didn't know if it was because of what he said or if it
was just natural for him. However he just sighed hearing the first of the most
neutral responses. If anything at all could click between them it didn't. They
didn't seem to match each other at all, but Jasper wasn't sure how to play
further in. Thus he chose to remain quiet, sipping his drink and staring at the
floor. "I wanted to talk about the marriage."
"I'm listening." Jasper answered, glancing at the man. He didn't want to look
at the man, he didn't feel happy standing here like an idiot and watching the
liquid in his glass move around. He saw a hand in his line of view and he
finally looked at Malfoy for longer than a second. He took the hand gently,
feeling more awkward than ever. Jasper had never had a chance to hold hands
with anyone before- not in a romantic context. It could turn out that Lucius
would be the only man who could ever show him any affection- if the man even
had it in him- and the though of that hurt Jasper more than anything else.
They sat down on the couch, near the fireplace. "Do you have any plans for the
future?" Malfoy asked first, seeing the teen's expression change. The older man
knew he realised something that was eating him away inside, but Lucius didn't
feel qualified enough to ask.
"I want to change people's thoughts on magical creatures- restore magical
forests, return the balance we destroyed and change the fear into
understanding. I believe that magical creatures should have the same rights as
we do." Jasper said and he got the look he was expecting.
"You're insane." Malfoy said, looking at the teen. It was just insane to think
that such monsters were equal to a wizard in the eyes of that boy. "I won't
allow that."
"Just dump me then, tell them you don't want me." Jasper said confidently, not
affected by the man's words in the slightest. Lucius pursed his lips together.
"Find yourself an obedient, nice wifey. I'm not giving up my dream for a guy I
don't even know."
"I don't want a wife if you hadn't noticed." Lucius responded sternly, watching
the teenager.
"I'm sure I'm not the only gay man affected by this law." Jasper said, crossing
his arms on his chest. It was starting to get better, but everything was ruined
now. The younger man cursed in his mind over and over again. He just wanted the
man to give him up.
"I have seen the men that have been affected by those laws and I'm not going to
marry any of them. You at least seemed presentable." Jasper gritted his teeth
hearing those words. He felt anger rush over him. "I need someone I can show in
public. I guess you can't get a good- looking and sane guy from your
generation."
Malfoy senior wasn't expecting that. He stared at the teenager wide-eyed,
watching tears streaming down double-coloured eyes. "Don't insult me ever
again. You're just a boy playing with the toys his parents gave him. You're an
excuse for a man!" Jasper growled leaning towards the man. "I would be
embarrassed to show by your side in public!"
"You... how dare you! You're just a spoiled mudblood." Malfoy spat at him, his
face changing to furry. He stood up, looking at Jasper with angry blue eyes.
Even if the teen was shorter than him he still stood proudly.
"A mudblood? Have you honestly looked at the profiles at all? Or are you that
ignorant and arrogant you spoiled asshole?!" Jasper roared, taking a step
forward. Malfoy senior wasn't expecting that, he was expecting such faith and
dedication to something that seemed so hopeless. "My parents were both wizards,
but that doesn't even matter. I'm a fucking orphan and that's why they put me
here."
Then there was silence. Jasper turned away from the man, sitting in a separate
chair. He brushed his face, feeling the rage boiling inside him. He wanted to
just calm down and go away. He didn't want to see this man ever again. Jasper
took off his shoes and he pulled his legs up, trying to went. His head shot up
hearing a sudden sound and he looked at the glass he was handed in surprise. He
took it and looked at the contents. They seemed to be just plain tea he poured
himself some time ago.
He watched Malfoy walk to the window silently. Jasper wondered if this was some
for of an apology. Maybe Malfoy didn't say sorry like all the normal people.
"I'm not less mad, because of that." Jasper informed the man, taking a sip from
his glass. Everything tasted perfectly normal.
"I know." Malfoy answered. Jasper moved so that now his legs dangled from the
side of the chair. "I shouldn't have said that."
"You shouldn't choose with your eyes. That's stupid." Jasper watch Malfoy
stiffen as if he wanted to say something. It would probably be something really
awful, which would cause another outburst from the teen.
"The problem is I can't really change my choice." Jasper's eyes widened in
surprise and then he cursed loudly. "That's what I'm thinking too. It's not
like you're the greatest person on this planet."
"Oh, then maybe try to stop bashing my goals and try to get to know me." Jas
growled as him annoyed with that arrogant and selfish attitude. It wasn't going
to work and he just wished he could change places with Hermione. At least he
could be having a potions lesson with Snape instead of this.
"I would if it wasn't for your moronic opinions." Lucius answered and he
watched Jasper move around the quarters. To his surprise the teen opened the
fridge and pulled out a few ingredients. Jasper decided to just shut off. He
was too tired to waste his energy on useless anger. If nothing has gone through
that man's thick skull there was no pint in talking. Jasper started making
himself a salad and then he settled with a bowl. He needed to push some food
into himself.
"The wedding is in two weeks." Malfoy said, walking towards the door.
"No wonder your wife left." Jasper said, looking at the man's back. Lucius
stopped in his tracks. "You might be handsome and powerful, but that alone
doesn't grant you approval and affection."
"Then what do you want me to do? Let you ruin my reputation?" Lucius turned to
him and Jasper sighed.
"How would I ruin your reputation? I never said I wanted to just blast the
world with my ideology." The teen explained. "I would have explained if you'd
ask, but instead you decided that disrespecting me was the more reasonable
solution." Lucius seemed to be more focused on him now and Jasper knew he
achieved something. "Sit down if you want to listen, but I need to eat first. I
couldn't eat all day and I'm not feeling the best right now."
"Do you want warm tea?" The man asked to Jasper's surprise and the teen nodded.
"Something with fruit if there is anything. " Jasper added, returning to his
salad. He didn't understand this guy. Lucius took care of the beverages and sat
down on the couch. He didn't seem happy or enthusiastic, but at the very least
he was willing to listen. Finally Jasper placed the empty bowl aside, deciding
to clean it later. "I'm not thinking about world domination. I want people to
stop seeing those creatures as lacking or dangerous. I know they might seem
that way, but I have been raised surrounded by them. I was free to roam the
forest, which my parents cared for in place of druids. I have been protected by
every single being inside it and I has never been harmed. I played with
werewolves as a five year old and they are honestly the most gentle people if
you are respectful. I wanted to start with a small foundation, which could help
the creatures and raise funds for protection of forests as parts of the
culture. National parks would be an amazing way to reintroduce the creatures.
Each area would have their own pack, which would be responsible for maintaining
the forest and getting the tourists around. They would get paid and they could
buy needed things in the nearest towns. There would be no more pointless
violence and plundering if they just got paid."
Lucius sat patiently, listening to what his future husband wanted to say. "I
know the world is not ready to have those creatures living amongst us, but we
have to stop behaving like muggles and bringing terror into their lives. We
don't need that tension, because that's just the silence before the storm."
Jasper said, trying to make his point by bringing in logical arguments.
"Fine. That's fair." Lucius said, closing his eyes. Jasper looked at him
shocked, when the man allowed him to go for his dream. It still felt
disrespectful, but it was better than making their bedroom a total battlefield.
"But you're not bringing those things to our house."
"Then I'm living at my place." Jasper stated bluntly. He wouldn't settle for
ridiculous rules and limits that cut his wings instead of actually helping.
Lucius pursed his lips together and frowned.
"You're really stubborn." He said, taking a deep breath. Jasper was just absurd
to him- the boy was clearly out of his mind. "But I don't want to fight every
single time we are in a hearing range from each other."
"Me neither." Jasper admitted, taking a sip from his cup. "Seeing as apparently
we're doomed with each other's company we could at least try to make it work."
"It should work on it's own." Lucius said. Jasper looked at him, trying to look
him in the eyes, but he was constantly turning his head away.
"Why did you chose me?" Jasper asked finally, looking at the man. Malfoy
sighed.
"You seemed the most different from everyone else." Lucius answered finally.
"Maybe I was sick with the aristocratic morality and I just wanted someone
simpler."
"I'm a human. It's impossible to be simple. I have feelings, you know?" Jasper
said, not really sure where this conversation was going.
"I felt them loud and clear." Lucius answered, thinking about the slap. "I'll
try not to bash everything you treasure next time."
"It's been half an hour." Jasper reasoned when Malfoy senior stood up. He
walked to Jasper and looked at him with a neutral expression. " You can't be
going to sleep already."
"You look drained." Jasper was surprised by those words and to find fingers
massaging his scalp. He leaned to the side, resting his temple against the warm
stomach, letting out the tension. His own hand started gently rubbing the older
man's back. Physical touch seemed to a good start when neither of them could
communicate verbally without igniting a fight. This time the silence was
absurdly soothing for both of them.
This wasn't normal and Jasper was sure that talking with his future husband
won't be easy, but right now he was alright with that. How could accept the
fact Lucius didn't know how to compromise. With time they found themselves
snuggling on the couch, listening to each other's breaths. "You'll let me
finish school?" Jasper whispered.
"Yes, education comes first. No matter how crazy your plans are." This time the
smaller blond smiled, hearing the same hushed tone even though the room was
completely quiet. There was something special and intimate about what they were
doing. Jasper would definitely put this in the category of the weirdest
encounters he had in his life.
"Next time when you decide to introduce a ridiculous law at least make an
evacuation route for yourself." Jasper whispered back, not wanting to remain
back on the insulting category.
"I count that as caring." Lucius whispered quietly, bringing him closer. He now
had a barely visible smile on his lips and he looked down at the teen.
"Count it as whatever you want." Jasper agreed, closing his eyes. This was
almost therapeutic. "I count the lack of the gate as me being the best possible
spouse." When Lucius chuckled Jasper hit him lightly, but soon he couldn't
stopped himself and he joined the other man. "We're going to fight over
everything, won't we?"
"We agree on your education. So technically we're a perfect match." Lucius said
nonchalantly and his arrogance was almost adorable in that moment.
"I hate you so much." Jasper said half-heartedly. A lot of his anger was gone,
but he was still anxious about what was about to come.
***** The Friend *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Jasper was confused to say the least. He woke up in empty quarters in the
morning and he winced realising that he was already late for his first period.
There was no use in barging into the class at this point and Jasper mentally
glared at his future husband.
He growled remembering how arrogant and stuck up that man was. Lucius didn't
seem to be prepared to talk with him and Jasper wouldn't even think of just
agreeing to everything the man had to say. The teen wanted to live the life in
his own way and he wanted to make Lucius fight for compromises. Jasper wanted
to give him a taste of his own medicine.
The blond stood up and made his way to the door. He noticed a piece of paper
attached to them and he rolled his eyes.
'I hate you too and yes, I didn't wake you up on purpose. Have a lovely day.
LM' Jasper gritted his teeth and sighed. What a prick.
The blond made his way to his dormitory and he took a long shower. Clean he
appeared on the next period. Thankfully he only missed herbology and he hoped
that professor Sprout would be compassionate enough to spare him that one
absence. Lucius has probably made it his new goal to make Jasper's life
miserable as well.
"Wait till I show up on our wedding in booty shorts and a hawaiian shirt. I'll
buy them especially for this occasion." Jasper muttered angrily to himself. He
patiently sat through all his periods not really listening to any of the
teachers. During their evening meal he has finally managed to relax. His
friends settled to talking about lessons after they tried to ask about his
future husband. Jasper refused to talk about him and his friends got the
message.
It was pathetic enough that he would have to be a good husband if Lucius
doesn't find any way out. Maybe he didn't want any way out. Jasper felt as if
something hit him suddenly and he felt a little constant flame of hate appear
inside him.
Lucius Malfoy wasn't a young or childless. He had a son that both of those
advantages and a fortune waiting for him. Lucius on the other hand was
considered old-fashioned, strict, cruel and stingy. And that was only the
beginning with that man. His job was also time-consuming and bothersome. Jasper
didn't want a life like that and he came to realise that no one wanted a life
like that.
This law was a miraculous solution for Lucius Malfoy and Jasper knew he didn't
want to leave any ways out. Suddenly his hope shattered like a thin glass wall.
He falt a hand shaking him and he rose his sight, looking at Alan and Ben
leaning to him. "Are you alright?" His best friend asked worriedly. He could
see most of the house looking at him as if he has lost his mind.
"I'm fine." Jasper answered sternly. He was certain his expression didn't
follow his words at all.
"Maybe take him to madame Pomfrey?" Jasper glared at the girl, who dared to
speak up.
"You need a fucking mind healer and not a nurse. I have no idea what that guy
did to you yesterday, but I don't like it one bit." Ben said, pulling him up.
Jasper clenched his jaw, his body tensing up.
"Do I look like a child to you?" He growled at his friend. He could see the
shocked expression on Ben's face. The head boy wasn't supposed to be angry, but
Jasper has had enough. His body was barely keeping him up and his brain was
killing him. "I just need too cool off."
"I'm going with you." Alan said, shutting Jasper up with the look in his eyes.
He pulled the blonde out of the hall.
"I don't need supervision Alan. I'll be okay." Jasper said when they were
finally alone and out of everyone's sight. He didn't want to be a bother to
others.
"I know you will, but you haven't healed still."Alan embraced him with his arm
and Jasper welcomed that touch with a smile.
"That's a trauma. It's not like it's ever going to heal. I'm fucked up and I
have slim chances of getting better." Jasper said, leaning towards his friend.
He really appreciated that Alan was his silent support . Jasper sometimes
forgot how grateful he was for having someone to talk to.
"So who is he?" Alan asked finally and Jasper sighed.
"Lucius Malfoy." He answered finally with a pathetic look on his face and he
watched Alan's eyes widen in surprise. He didn't expect it to be someone that
well known and influential. It explained a lot. "We were arguing a long time
yesterday. The meeting was weird as a whole. We get along the best when we
don't speak."
"I imagine." Alan groaned as they sat down together on the grass. "Are you
still thinking about working together on that foundation?"
"Of course." Jasper answered immediately, seeing his friend worry. "We're doing
it for my parents an your sister. I wouldn't give it up for anything in the
world and no Malfoy is going to stop me. I live for this."
"I know and thanks. I just wish I could be as big of an inspiration as you are
to me." Alan smiled, hugging Jas again. The blond smiled, doing the same back.
They had a motion between them and they always created a power duet. They were
always keeping each other motivated. Jasper had no idea how they came to be
friends, but now he considered Alan his brother and further his only family.
Jasper was ecstatic when he got invited over for Christmas in their first year.
Alan seemed extremely nervous when it came to the Christmas Eve supper. To
Jasper's amazement a pack of werewolves suddenly filled the house and Alan
tried to protect him from being sniffed.
He seemed stunned when Jasper moved without fear and he walked straight to
alpha. He let the man sniff him whole as if he knew exactly what he was doing.
Upon asking he got his answer and it scared Alan to hell and back hearing what
Jasper was through.
Now the chemistry between them worked in perfect sync. "Gods, I wish you were
gay. I'd happily cook for you for the rest of our lives." Jasper said with a
bright smile, wishing for the impossible. Alan embraced him tighter.
"Sorry. At this point I'd marry you with a smile if I only could." Alan
admitted and Jasper smiled. He had a wonderful friend. Plus he could talk to
Alan about everything.
Alan was exactly what he wanted to see in Lucius Malfoy. The problem was they
were the exact opposites.
Chapter End Notes
     Did I mention Jasper is my spirit animal?
     Sorry if there are any mistakes. I have a really boring lecture ahead
     of me so I might be writing. Hit me up if youlack a pairing and you
     want to see a story. I'm looking for ideas!
***** A Chance *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Jasper's peaceful moment with Alan was ruined by the arrival of professor
Snape. Then blond immediately knew that his husband was calling him and wanted
something from him. Jasper had a feeling it was nothing good. Before he could
move away Alan squeezed him one last time and Jasper smiled happily. He waved
to his friends as he followed professor Snape back to the castle.

"Same place." The man informed him and Jasper nodded, walking towards the
quarters. He already hated being around the man and now he will see Lucius
second day in a row. Jasper definitely has had enough of that guy.

He was immediately let in by the portrait and he stepped in. He was surprised
to see Malfoy stand up and walk over to him. "Draco said something happened to
you during the meal. Are you alright? Have you been eating properly?" Lucius
seemed to be all over him and Jasper stood speechless, hearing all those
questions. "Draco wasn't sure what happened..."

"I'm fine. More or less at least." Jasper cut him off, taking a deep breath. "I
suspect I had a minor panic attack, but I'm not sure. I kinda... spaced out."
"Panic attack?" Lucius asked stunned, looking at the teen. He wanted an
explanation and Jasper was aware of that. "Are you mentally ill? Do you take
medication?"
"I suffer from post traumatic stress disorder." Jasper admitted sitting down.
"I have prescribed medication, but they aren't worth it."

"Post traumatic?" Lucius sat down next to him. Jasper pursed his lips and his
body tensed up. He hated the position he was in, but he managed to crack up a
smile.
"You know. Murder and rape are typically the things that do it for people."
Jasper tried to turn the whole thing into a joke. That's what he always did and
when he explained everything to Alan and his family it was exactly the same.
Neither Jasper nor Lucius were good at voicing their feelings.
"Jasper, that's not a joke!" Lucius said, looking at the teen. "I told you
those creatures are dangerous and yet you still..."

"Oh don't give me your shit now!" Jasper jumped to his feet, walking around the
room. He turned around with a furious look on his face, facing Lucius. The
glass surface of the table broke suddenly. "They were killed by people like
you. You fucking morons can't even pull your egos out of your asses. I live
thanks to a werewolf!"
Jasper slid down the nearest wall, trying to calm down. He hated that man. That
fucking idiot. He felt tears rushing down his face, but he couldn't even force
himself to be angry. He was lost and terrified. Jasper sobbed quietly, hiding
his face in his hands. "I'm alive thanks to a werewolf."

He felt Lucius pull him towards himself and into his lap. "I got the message. I
got it, now breathe." Jasper heard a concerned voice as he clutched to the man.
A long time passed before the teen started calming down. Finally he was just
resting his head on the broad shoulder still trembling slightly. "I didn't want
you to have a mental breakdown."

"It's too much stress. I'm really sensitive and school is almost filling up my
limit." Jasper said quietly. His voice was rough and he felt tired. "I can't
take living like that. I'm too weak for that."

"You're not. You're amazing and I don't want you to think otherwise. We'll work
everything out." Jasper looked at the man, who was paler than usual. He seemed
so worried sick about him right now and Jasper smiled weakly.

"It finally got through your thick skull?" Jasper asked, letting Lucius' hands
gently rub his body. The teen seemed calmer now, resting on him.
"It did. I don't want to see you like that ever again." Lucius looked at the
fragile boy he held in his arms. Malfoy held him close as if afraid to even let
him move. Jasper wrapped him arms around the older man's neck, breathing in his
smell. It was nice even if a little too strong and woody for Jasper's liking.
He liked the comfort and affection he was receiving now. "Are you alright with
individual learning?"
"Why? I'm alright with school." Jasper said, not even trying to get himself
worked up. Lucius seemed much calmer too, with his eyes focused on the smaller
blond. "I have good grades and I'm the head guy."

"That's exactly what I'm worried about. You have too much to take care of in
your state, but I was thinking about bringing in a mind healer for you." Lucius
said, kissing his forehead.
"I had a mind healer, but it didn't work." Jasper said, pulling his head up and
looking at his partner. "I just want to make this work."
"We'll make this work. You almost scared my soul out of me." Lucius admitted.

"Just don't be a dick, okay?" Jasper asked and the older blond man nodded. "I
need you to be there for me."
"Don't swear so much." Lucius chastised him and Jasper smiled. "I will. Just
tell me what you need."
"Don't bash me for starters. Two- we need to get to know each other. Three- i
hope you have a really comfortable bed." Jasper said and the last point made
the older man chuckle. "So what do you do outside being a politician?"

"Is it a date?" Lucius rose one of his eyebrows and Jasper rested his head
under the man's chin, settling lower on his lap.
"A floor date. A suitable lever for us." Jas commented, closing his eyes.
"We can only go like six stories down." Lucius said sarcastically and Jasper
smiled. "I like the typical things I guess- books, theatre. I always wanted to
travel, but there has never been a chance."

"So what do you say about a trip around the world for our honeymoon? Or just
somewhere far away." Jasper proposed. A change would be nice. There was a lot
of shifting in his life right now, but he was still in the same place. With
individual teaching he would be able to rest more and work on their
relationship. If Lucius really meant what he said they had a chance.

"Sounds good." Lucius nodded, happy that they were able to engage in a normal
conversation. "Tell me about yourself. Everything you think I should know."
"I enjoy sleeping. " Jasper sateted as if it was the most important thing in
the world. "I love magical creatures. I think I should tell you about the scar
first."
"Scar?" Lucius echoed in shock as Jasper moved away and took off his tie. He
unbuttoned his shirt, showing off a think pink scar. It started on his left
shoulder and ended on the right hip, but the lower end was now hidden by his
trousers. Lucius reached his hand and touched the scar gently. Jasper was
thankful that he was careful with it. "It's black magic."

"Yeah, a nasty cutting curse. It was so powerful that it cut the werewolf above
me in half and still did that to me. That woman was under our care, a lone wolf
that was exiled for being infertile. She was my nanny when I was a kid." Jasper
explained, looking down at his chest. He was alive thanks to Luna and he could
never thank her enough.

Jasper saw Lucius' furious expression and he coward in fear. "Were they
caught?"
"I ran out of money for the lawyer. " Jasper answered quietly. Malfoy stood up
and flooed out of the room suddenly. Jasper looked at the fireplace, left
completely alone. He stood up and sighed. It was beginning to go well.

Jasper took one of the blankets that he found hidden in a cupboard and he
settled on the couch, curling up into a ball wrapped around with the blanket.
It was hard for him. He decided to give that man a chance and open up. Jasper
wanted to have a good start and an affectionate relationship. He just wanted
the same as everyone. Jasper felt betrayed in a way. Despite what Lucius tried
to put on he didn't care enough to put Jasper's health before whatever he
wanted to do. Jasper managed to fall asleep alone and trembling on the couch.
He had no idea how he did it, but the quarters seemed awfully cold.
Chapter End Notes
     Happy bday to me I guess lol
***** The Night Plan *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Jasper was woken u by a nightmare. He had no idea where he was and he panicked
further, seeing an unfamiliar bed. He jumped outside of the sheets, squeezing
himself into the corner of the room, looking around frantically.
"Jasper?" Another voice made Jasper jump and he faced the potential attacker.
His eyes widened when he saw Lucius getting out of bed. "Come on. It was just a
dream. You need sleep."
Jasper slowly waddled his way to the man, seeking comfort. Lucius hid him in
his arms, making sure that the teen felt secure. He was coming to realise that
living with traumatised Jasper wasn't going to be easy. "Just focus on
breathing. You're safe."
"Sorry." Was all Jasper managed to say. His throat was dry and coarse. Lucius
took his wand from inside the nightstand and a glass of lukewarm water appeared
in Jasper's hands. The smaller blond took a few sips and sighed in relief.
"No need to apologise." Lucius said gently checking if he was alright now.
Jasper drank all the water and he set the glass aside. He slid onto the
matress.
"You walked out on me." Jasper said his accusing stare straight on Lucius. The
man sighed.
"I know. I just had something to do." Lucius said, but judging by Jasper's
expression he wasn't convinced at all.
"Excuses. Do you have them in bed if you're not good enough too?" Jasper said
sarcastically. He didn't want to hear that. He didn't want the man to hide
anything from him. Lucius was just making everything a hundred times harder
than it already was. "First you say you want me to get better and half an hour
later you're leaving me on my own after I tried to open up. Just tell me if
that fucking scar disgusts you. Just tell me if you changed your mind and you
only want to be married on paper. I can take it. I would rather take the truth
than this."
"I hate that scar, but I don't think it's making you ugly or disgusting."
Malfoy answered, but Jasper's expression hadn't changed.
"Under veritaserum. You lie as a job and I'm not dumb." Jasper demanded and he
saw Lucius' shoulders drop.
"Alright. Now sleep, you need rest." Lucius said, pulling the teen close.
"You're tired."
"You are as well." Jasper said looking at how startled the man looked. "Get
used to it. I don't sleep well, especially if I'm not familiar with the place."
"Alright. I'll make sure I sleep in a different room at first so I can work."
Lucius said lying down. He closed his eyes and Jasper slowly snuggled to him.
"That's an idea." Jasper said, looking at the well build chest he was resting
on. Lucius didn't have a six pack, but he was still in good shape. Jasper
slowly slid his hand across the flat stomach. He started gently scratching
Lucius' side, trying to relax his mind. The older man silently allowed him to
do that, hoping that the teen would fall asleep quicker. His hand went up,
gently massaging Jasper's neck. To his surprise the teen moaned and then hid
his face in the bare shoulder. Lucius gently kissed his temple, moving his hand
back to the teen's back.
Arousal wasn't really the state Jasper should be in at two in the morning.
Lucius found himself drifting off with ease, his arm wrapped around his
partner. Jasper's eyes moved along the older man's body. Lucius looked so much
nicer when he was sleeping. His lips were slightly open and Jasper didn't have
to watch them smile in a way that made him angry. Lucius had the tendency to
treat him like a child and Jasper absolutely despised that.
After some time, when Jasper was sure that Lucius was sleeping like a rock he
moved away. He walked to the nightstand and he pulled their wands out. With a
smile he took both of them and he dressed himself up. Before walking out of the
quarters Jasper made himself a piece of paper, placing it on the door.
'Politician don't need wands. Have a lovely day darling.' Said the note and
Jasper smiled proudly. Oh, he will be overjoyed in the morning when he goes to
eat breakfast with his friends.
Jasper returned to his bed with a grin and he took a quick shower, hiding both
wands under his pillow. This was a really bad joke, but Jasper wanted that man
to suffer. He was fed up with being the one hurt.
Chapter End Notes
     Well, the next part will be fun
***** Really? *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Jasper walked to the great hall with his friends. Alan was walking right beside
him with a dumb grin on his face. To be honest they were all doing that. When
they found Jasper in his own bed they were all shocked, but they all got on
board with the plan. That's what Hufflepuffs did. They all always ended up
involved in the same plan.
"So we've got to avoid Malfoy junior?" Monica asked enthusiastic about hiding
anything from anyone. She always made stuff disappear without a trace, but
could also track everything down. She also seemed to like Luna Lovegood enough
to find her things and place them somewhere visible every time her housemates
pulled a prank on her. It was a weird balance between being bad and good.
Jasper poured himself some tea and he settled down for a few sandwiches. He was
just waiting for the game to start. "8.21" Monica informed and Jasper glanced
to the door and he couldn't hold back the smirk as his beloved barged into the
hall. Well, Jasper wished he would barge in instead of walking in nonchalantly.
He looked at the Slytherin table seeing that Lucius decided to let his son
handle this. Or that's what he was expecting. However Lucius walked over to him
and Jasper let him stand there for a minute in silence taking in his victory.
"Can you give it back?"
"As soon as you admit I'm the best boyfriend you've ever had." Jasper answered.
He wasn't obnoxiously loud and probably only his friends could hear him. Jasper
stood up, looking at his future husband with an innocent smile. "Well, I'll
consider it then. "
"That's your payback?" Lucius rose one of his eyebrows and Jasper nodded
bluntly. He saw Lucius roll his eyes.
"Yup. Should have woken me up yesterday Mr. Malfoy." Jasper said, shrugging. He
knew the whole hall was staring at them.
Jasper froze for a second hearing that Ben couldn't stop himself any longer and
started giggling at the table. Jasper looked at him and that alone was enough
to send the teen into a laughing fit. "Jasper! He won't stop for the next ten
minutes now." Monica complained, having his head resting on her shoulder.
"Can you focus for five minutes or are you that mental?" Jasper's eyes widened
as he heard the angry hiss close to his ear. "This is not funny. Maybe for you
children it is, but I can just throw you to jail and get rid of you. That's
what you wanted?"
Jasper's expression hardened and it has reached a level Malfoy has never seen
before. All Jasper did was walk past him and to the exit of the hall. Lucius
followed after him furious that the teen didn't even seem to care.
Jasper walked up to the lake and later into the forest. Lucius caught him just
after the first line of trees. "That's dangerous. " Lucius nearly shouted at
him. "Let's go back."
"I want to show you something." Jasper said something. He decided to lure
Lucius in while he still had a chance. The man was unarmed now and he wouldn't
be able to hurt anything. "Come on."
"You're not well." Lucius said and Jasper sighed.
"I want to show you something. My friends played their parts and I did as well.
If professor Sprout sees I'm not well she excuses me from classes. That's a
plus of PTSD." Jasper explained. "By the way- your wand is under the bed. I'm
not suicidal."
Jasper stretched his hand forward. "That's my last try to convince you." He
said and Lucius too his hand. "But I want honesty. I need it."
"You'll get it." Lucius nodded as he was led deeper into the woods. He felt as
if all this was just a dream. The forest looked beautiful and enticing, at
least in Jasper's opinion. Malfoy found it disturbing and menacing and he
didn't like this one bit.
They were walking for what felt like hours. The older man's legs grew tired and
he stopped. Jasper almost lost his balance. He slowly turned to Lucius and the
man wished he didn't. His biggest nightmare was staring at him with a wide
grin.
Lucius Malfoy woke up suddenly, sitting up. "Fuck." He turned suddenly just to
see Jasper lying on the floor next to the couch.
Chapter End Notes
     Plot twist!
***** A New Beginning *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
"Fuck." Jasper exclaimed as he was suddenly lying on the floor after hitting
the edge of the coffee table with his back. He groaned in pain and he glared at
the older man, who was looking at him stunned. "Are you just going to stare at
me?"
"No." Lucius reached down for him and helped him up. "Does it hurt a lot?"
"Yeah, but I'll manage." Jasper said, nodding. He returned to lying on his
future husband's chest. "Did you have a nightmare?"
"Yeah. About you actually, but I don't remember it too well." Lucius lied
swiftly and Jasper nodded, calmed by the fact that it was nothing serious. "But
I want to ask something though. Are you mentally ill?"
"Yeah, how did you know?" Lucius saw shame appear on Jasper's face. "No one
knows that except for professor Sprout."
"It was in the dream." Lucius admitted.
"Are you a seer?" Jasper asked, leaning into the touch as Lucius' fingers
started massaging his head.
"Of course not." Lucius smirked. "I'm not letting you go to school tomorrow. We
need to talk."
"Sleep first? I'm really tired." Jasper proposed with a sleepy smile. He was
barely keeping himself awake. He was kissed on the forehead and he snuggled
into Lucius, falling asleep quickly.
Jasper woke up in a bed and his head shpt up immediately. He cursed, feeling
pain go through his skull. Jasper saw Lucius placing him back on the matress
and kissing his head. "Hello sleepyhead." Jasper smiled gently as he was given
affection. He had no idea why Lucius was acting like that, but he was happy
about it.
"Hi." Jasper answered. "Are you feeling okay?" He asked, sitting up gently. He
saw a newspaper on the bed and he picked it up, looking at the front page. He
rolled his eyes looking at Reeta Skeeter's article. She was so annoying and
Jasper absolutely despised dishonesty. He looked at the article about the
marriage law.
He opened the prophet and suddenly he turned pale. "What?" Jasper said weakly
looking at the list of the paired names. His was right next to Lucius'.
"I know." Lucius said, pulling him close. "They would find out sooner or later,
but I'm still going to take legal action for that."
"Why?" Jasper asked, resting his head on Lucius' shoulder.
"Some parents might attack the future spouse." Lucius explained and Jasper went
through the rest of the paper.
"They should fire that bitch. " Jasper scowled, thinking about Skeeter.
"Don't swear love." Lucius chastised him and Jasper muttered something under
his breath. "You're so stubborn."
"Yeah. You'll have to deal with that." Jasper smiled at him and Lucius wrapped
an arm around him. Finally Jasper looked around the room. It definitely wasn't
Hogwarts as the room was heavily decorated.
"Any more decorations and the walls will give up. How can you sleep here?"
Jasper asked, looking around.
"The master bedroom belongs to the head of the family and it's always been like
this." Jasper moved away from him and he scowled.
"Your parents slept in here?!" He said jumping out of the bed. "I fucking hope
they didn't die there in there too."
"What is even wrong with that?" Lucius asked furrowing his eyebrows.
"Your parents FUCKED on this bed." Jasper answered as if it was the most
obvious thing in the world. Lucius eyes widened.
"You didn't have to make me realise that." He said, getting out of the bed. He
was happy living in oblivion. Lucius walked to his young lover. He felt better
when thinking about Jasper like that. "We're going to buy a new bed."
"Can we just redecorate the house? The bedroom at least?" Jasper asked, but
Lucius didn't seem convinced. "Maybe we can get our own place of something?"
Jasper made a different suggestion and Lucius sat back on the bed. The teen
wasn't sure what to do next. He walked to his future husband slowly and he
brushed his hair with his fingers. "You fucked your wife here and I don't
really want to think about this."
"I know and I get it. I really do." Lucius said, looking at the teenager. "I'll
have something until the end of the school year, okay?"
"Tell me." Jasper said, sitting next to him. "I'll be your husband soon."
"I was thinking about building a house." Lucius said. "We could leave this how
it was supposed to be. I don't want to ruin it."
"I understand. Let's not worry about it now though. Maybe let's take a shower?"
Jasper offered and they both stood up. Jasper looked down suddenly realising he
was just in his underwear and that his scar was showing. He tried to hid it
with his arms as discreetly as possible. When they both found themselves in an
old-fashioned bathroom. Jasper winced seeing a old bathtub and sighed silently.
It seemed like his plan wouldn't work.
Jasper was used to muggle commodities and equipment that made life better. "Are
you alright?"
"I was counting for a shower." Jasper admitted, trying not to stand with his
chest towards Lucius. He looked at his husband, who stood in front of him and
gently moved his hands away.
"I'm alright with this scar. Were you protected by a werewolf?" Jasper's eyes
widened in surprise.
"No, it was a vampire. He healed and took me away. He healed me with potions,
but the scar wouldn't go away. He still checks on me during summer, he's really
caring." Jasper said, the memory of the man bringing a smile to his face. "You
seem a lot less negative."
"I have a feeling I'm not going to have an easy time if I close you here and
won't let you do what you want." Lucius said and Jasper nodded. "I guess I
would rather get along with you even if I don't agree. "
"A compromise from a Malfoy? I'm impressed." Jasper grinned at his future
husband and he was pulled close. "I still don't think we can bathe together."
"Well, I'll just order breakfast for us and you go take a bath." Lucius said
and Jasper nodded, taking off his underwear. Lucius chuckled the the boy's
behaviour. Having someone younger and more cheerful by his side was refreshing
to say the least. It felt almost purifying.
He was glad to be on good terms with Jasper. The boy seemed so much nicer than
in his dream and he had a different smile. Lucius ordered some breakfast in the
dining room. He smiled as Jasper walked into the bedroom in his underwear.
"I'll get you some clothes from Draco."
"Alright. They can do for today." Jasper watched Lucius summon a house elf and
order him to bring some clothes.
"We'll go to Gringotts first, alright?" Lucius asked, passing him in the door
to the bathroom. Jasper nodded and he sat on the bed, waiting patiently.
Finally a house elf handed him a small stack of clothes and Jasper put them on,
sighing in relief when his naked skin wasn't showing anymore. It was fun for a
second, but now he was just glad to be fully dressed.
Jasper leaned against on of the beams in the corner of the bed. He was sure the
rest of the house looked as old as this and he honestly had no idea how Lucius
survived in a place like that. Merlin himself could have fucked on this bed
judging by its looks.
Chapter End Notes
     Plot development went from serious moral choices to bed theories. I'm
     thriving as an author...
***** The vault *****
Jasper put his jacket on, thankful that he could take some of his clothes from
school. His friends were extremely jealous when he announced he's pardoned for
the next few days. Lucius wanted to take care of all the legal matters in one
day. Jasper was thrilled at the thought that he had taken a day off just to
make sure everything was done properly and he wasn't left behind at home like a
dog. Instead he walked next to his future husband and he just let people stare.
They were going to anyway so he might as well seem happy.
Right now he was. He was content with how he talked to Lucius and the amount of
affection they were giving each other. They weren't ready to show anything in
public, but Jasper hoped that it will change with time. He wanted to be able to
hold hands with him, Jasper wanted his life to be normal.
He was going to be married to a man who didn't fit into this category at all.
His life was going to be strict, but he hoped that at least at home Lucius
won't be as cold towards him.
Jasper was led to Gringotts, a place which he hated. He didn't hate the goblins
inside- it was just the fact that he couldn't access his parents' vault. He
wanted to see what's inside, if he could host the first banquet for the
foundation with the inherited money.
"May your gold flow like a river and your foes fall down to your feet." Jasper
greeted the creature in English, then adding something that Lucius didn't
understand.
Malfoy was greeted by the goblin sitting behind the high counter. "Oh, mister
Arkwright, good to see you here. I thought you would barge in here the second
your marriage contract was sealed." Jasper's eyes widened. "Let me take the
honour of giving you this. I believe it belongs to you."
Jasper was handed a silver key, something that Lucius has never seen before and
the teen clutched to it. "Thank you." Jasper nodded gratefully. He must have
caught Lucius' curious look and he smiles. "Not only you have a cool vault."
"I signed a financial separation." Lucius said as the goblin appeared from one
of the entrances. They were taken deep down into the vaults, to one of the
older ones. Lucius opened his vault with his key and Jasper turned around. He
had no need of knowing how much his future husband owned. "Jasper, that doesn't
mean I don't want you to know anything about me."
"It's nothing personal. It's just your private matter." Jasper answered,
looking at the key he had in his hands. "I have my own vault." Suddenly he felt
a hand around his stomach.
"Come on. I don't want you to sit here. You're going to be my husband and I
don't want you to feel like my financial situation is not you problem. It is
your problem." Lucius explained, trying to get the teen to act more like his
spouse. That's how it was by the tradition and Lucius wanted to keep it at
that. "I won't look into your if you want that."
"No, that's not it. It's just rude by muggle standards. " Jasper explained,
turning to Lucius.
"It's a custom in the wizarding world. It's to ensure your spouse is not
getting in debt. Especially women, who didn't inherit any titles are concerned
with this. You don't need to, but I think it's a tradition." Lucius explained
patiently and Jasper nodded, getting up from the cart. They moved to the closed
doors and Lucius opened the vault again. Jasper bit his lip, seeing the piles
of gold and expensive objects lined neatly on the shelves. It was obvious
Malfoy was filthy rich and no wonder Draco always boasted about the amount of
gold they owned.
Jasper watched Lucius go deeper into the vault and the door closed behind them.
The teen tiptoed behind the man. It made sense for women to check if their
husbands were in trouble. He however didn't feel the need. Honestly Jasper had
no idea whether or not there was a single coin in the vault.
He watched Lucius take a book from the shelf and Jasper looked through the
titles curiously. He pulled out one of the books in a language he vaguely
recognised by now.
"Tales and songs." He read the title and he looked at Lucius, who was furrowing
his eyebrows. "Mom tried to teach me fae language. It was so long ago, but it
seemes I still remember some."
"You can read it?" Lucius asked. He has obtained those books with the vault and
they have always prodded his curiosity.
"Actually I had another copy at home so I remembered, but I can read some."
Jasper admitted, placing the book back in its place. "I can probably remember
more if I see something else."
"That's still something. I couldn't find the language it was written in. Now I
know why, but who are faes?" Lucius asked. His future husband was surprising
him now.
"Faeries or as you call them ancients. You know -the race wizards come from. "
Lucius' eyes widened. "Oh, didn't you know we all come from magical creatures?
Blood status derives from the amount of faerie blood."
Jasper said as they both walked out of the vault. He was looking at Lucius
curiously. The politician seemed surprised, but Jasper expected worse. It
wasn't all bad.
***** Akaterii *****
The goblin has led them further down the back caverns of Gringotts on the small
cart as they headed for Jasper's vault. “Please step out. The rest we will have
to cover on foot.” Whitehook informed them. Jasper walked up to the torch,
which was hung on the wall and he placed it lower, allowing the goblin to light
it.
There was no other lighting in the tunnel they walked through. The air was damp
and cold and white fog appeared every time they breathed out. Finally they
stopped a set of giant doors made out of gold. “That’s the akaterii part.” The
goblin informed and Jasper turned to his husband, taking his hand.
“Akaterii means friend in their language.” Jasper said, forcing Lucius to walk
closer. “Keep close, the shadows here are dangerous.” The smaller blond
whispered.
Lucius nodded, walking just right after his future spouse. Jasper opened the
door with his key and the mechanism started shifting slowly. The door parted
and they stopped inside a smaller chamber. There were only three sets of doors
inside and Lucius walked to Jasper, feeling bizarre as if something tried to
grab him by the neck and pull away from the teen. He caught Jasper’s hand and
the teen smiled. “Are you alright?”
“I think so. You don’t seem affected at all.”Lucius said, looking at his
companion.
“I’m a friend and I’m welcomed here.” Jasper explained, pulling him to one of
the doors. Lucius seemed really confused and disoriented. Whitehook just
continued to stand at one of the other doors looking at them and he nodded when
Jasper moved to one of the other two. Lucius took the torch from him and Jasper
opened the door, pulling his husband behind. He didn’t want to leave him alone
outside. Lucius lit a candle with the torch and suddenly a trail of oil lit up
around the room. Lucius left the torch in the holster and he looked around the
chamber.
Jasper was standing in the middle of it, slowly turning around. He looked
stunned, his eyes wet and glistening in the fire’s light. The walls were
covered with countless shelves filled with old tomes and things that Lucius
couldn’t even describe. He saw a suit of armour unlike everything he has ever
seen before. There was silverware filled with precious stones and weaponry that
would make him embarrassed. There was no money in the vault, but Lucius
suspected that if Jasper sold everything the gold wouldn’t even fit inside the
room. The teen seemed overwhelmed as he opened and closed his mouth obviously
not knowing where to even begin.
“You should also visit your proper vault.” Jasper turned around and looked at
the goblin in a state of shock. “This is a treasury your parents set up. They
wouldn’t leave you penniless.”
“You mean there is more?” Jasper asked in a weak voice and Lucius immediately
walked up to him, surrounding him with his arm. He felt the teen rest his
weight on him. “I have no idea what to do with it.”
“Let’s leave that for now.” Lucius offered. “First you’ll pick some money for
yourself so you can buy whatever you want. I suppose you have a list of all the
objects inside.”
“Yes, but it’s only available here. We keep it that way as a security measure.”
The goblin nodded and he looked surprised when Lucius offered him a few coins.
“Would there be a way to join the treasury to the vault? Having two keys on him
could raise suspicion.”
“I’d be fine. Nobody will think that I have two vaults. “ Jasper reasoned,
brushing off his tears. He felt relieved that he could stop worrying about the
money.
“They might think you have a key to my vault and I won’t risk your safety.
People are crazy sometimes and it could put you in danger.” Lucius explained
patiently. Jasper seemed like a lost kitten. “Go pick up whatever you’d like
and we’ll go to the vault, alright?”
The teen moved around with his partner’s watchful eyes on him. Lucius smiled
when the door changed their position as the goblin moved them. Lucius walked up
to him and he took out more gold, paying the creature more than he would even
think of charging. “Thank you.”
“I’ll set the key for the young master Arkwright as soon as you’re ready to
leave. He needs to validate the seal with his blood.” Goblin said, moving to a
small chest placed on the table. Lucius scowled as the goblin took something
from the inside, but he said nothing. He didn’t want to stress Jasper further.
Lucius would just wait for things to play out the way they were meant to.
Jasper returned with a few books and a Lucius shrunk them for him. The teen
placed them in his pocket, thanking him with a smile. The goblin handed him an
elegant, leather sack and Jasper thanked him in their language. They all moved
to the other room, Lucius holding the torch once again. Jasper sighed with
relief, seeing gold in the other room. He was so relieved he crouched on the
floor crying silently into his hands.
Lucius handed the torch to the goblin, asking him to hold it for a second,
while he calmed down the teen. Jasper was shaking, but he seemed alright as
soon as he snuggled into the older man. “It’s alright. I’ll treat you to some
cakes alright? Just calm down.” Jasper nodded silently and he pulled away,
placing some gold in the sack. Lucius just wanted to hide him in their bedroom
again, letting Jasper feel more at ease.
The teen finally returned to his side and Lucius took back his torch. They all
stopped in front of the door to the vault. None of them dared ask what was
behind the last door. The goblin pulled an object out of his pocket, whatever
it was that he removed from the treasury earlier. Lucius watched as he slipped
a ring on one of Jasper’s fingers. “Shhhh…” He hushed the boy, seeing his tear
up again. Jasper had to see a mind healer and it was out of question.
“Now I need your blood.” Goblin said, pulling out a small knife and Jasper
extended his arm. Lucius watched his Jasper hiss as the blade broke his skin.
The creature smeared the blood from the knife on a flat circular surface on the
door. “Please, imprint the ring and we will be done.”
Jasper nodded and he pressed the ring against the circle. The top of the ring
sunk into the surface. Jasper found himself stuck for about half a minute
before he could move his hand away. The surface had a smaller radius now and
Jasper he couldn’t believe he owned the vault now. It was filled with money and
Jasper he felt almost ashamed at the thought that he was filthy rich. With that
money he could launch his project.
The goblin led the way back as if completely unaffected by the darkness. Lucius
healed Jasper’s arm and they were now holding hands, their fingers tangled
together. The moved away from each other when they reached the cart. They
returned to the surface and Lucius was glad that the bone-chilling feeling was
gone. He looked at the teen, who still seemed in shock and he led him into a
bakery. “Choose whatever you want.” Lucius said, his mask in place now that
they were back among people. Jasper looked at him and he sighed, not finding
comfort in the man this time. He hated how his heart sunk every time Lucius cut
away from him. They both some small cakes, deciding to share them at home.
(+++)
“Are you alright?” Lucius asked as soon as they were back home, looking at the
teen, who collapsed on the couch.
“This ring feels heavy.” Jasper answered, closing his eyes. He was amazed that
it wasn’t lost at first and he was proud to wear it. Now however he realised
that it was his responsibility and he had to worry about it. It was a
suffocating feeling that Jasper knew too well.
“I know. Let’s get you into something more comfortable now.” Lucius said, but
Jasper looked at him like he was stupid. He had absolutely nothing here. “I
asked the elves to bring your clothes over. I want to see in what state your
wardrobe is.”
“Awful.” Jasper answered immediately, following his partner into the bedroom.
He saw his trunk sitting next to a wall. Lucius opened their wardrobe and he
looked at the small amount of clothes critically.
“You’re right. We need everything for you.” Lucius said. It looked like they
had to return to Hogsmeade and pick something out.
“I don’t want only wizarding clothes. I need some muggle ones too.” He saw
Lucius wince, but he didn’t care if his future husband liked it or not. “Will a
kiss be enough to convince you?”
Lucius smiled and shook his head. “Let’s say so.” He agreed, ready to trade
something like that if it meant gaining Jasper’s trust. The teen kissed him on
the cheek quickly and ran away from the room. Lucius rolled his eyes. Counting
for something more, but then again he got exactly what he expected to get. He
followed his lover out of the bedroom with a smile on his face.
***** Chapter 13 *****
„No means no.” Jasper said, crossing his arms on his chest. They were standing
in front of a magic clothing store and Jasper wasn’t too happy about that.
“Just because you like being uncomfortable doesn’t mean I would like that as
well. “
“Don’t argue with me in public.” Lucius said sternly, looking at Jasper.

“I’ll buy something here if we’ll get normal clothes afterwards. And you’ll buy
something.” Jasper said, stating his conditions. Oh, he will make Lucius try on
something and he hoped that the man would change his opinion. They entered the
shop with the most exclusive clothes Jasper saw in his life. He sighed
unhappily, preparing himself. He will have to spend half his vault in this
place.

He let Lucius talk with the shop owner and to his horror Jasper noticed they
were talking in French. The blond rolled his eyes annoyed and he was sure the
pissed off look on his said it all. To his further annoyance he was completely
ignored and took a place on the couch, deciding to pull out his phone. He had
hidden it before as he didn’t want Lucius to frown at him, but now he didn’t
even give a fuck about what that man thought. He was bored and he started
chatting with his friends. To his amusement they were sitting in a history
class. Jasper giggled, seeing dumb pictures they sent to him.

The phone was probably one of the few expensive things he owned and he saved up
for it for a long time. He sent a picture to them and he smiled. He was so glad
he wasn’t limited to Malfoy and he had someone else to talk to. Jasper looked
at the men, who were still talking. Finally he was asked to stand up. The blond
let the magical tape measure him with a completely bored expression on his
face. “Let me pay and we’re going to a place for normal people.” Jasper said,
walking up to the counter to pay for whatever Lucius has ordered.

“You won’t even ask?” Lucius rose one of his eyebrows and Jasper turned around
with the most condescending expression anyone has ever seen.
“Like I’m going to wear them. They’re just a waste of money.” Jasper explained
and turned around to the surprised owner. “What? Go talk more in French, see if
I understand anything.” He said, rolling his eyes.
“Jasper, have some manners.” Lucius said sternly, walking up to him.

“Are you my father? If not then please shut the fuck up.” Jasper answered with
a smile, consciously using the most obnoxious vocabulary.
“I apologize on his behalf. He’s an orphan and he hasn’t been taught to behave
properly.” Lucius apologised and Jasper felt the anger flare in him in a
second.
“Oh, really? Then I’m just going to buy what I want.” Jasper hissed placing a
good amount of gold on the counter, looking his future husband right in the
eyes before walking out of the shop. “I’ll be in muggle London.” He added
walking out. He was angry and his chest hurt. He hated being called impolite,
but he couldn’t help himself. If those men decided to talk in French they were
rude first. In Jasper’s mind that justified his rudeness. Bringing his parents
in was unacceptable to Jasper. He hated the fact that memories flooded him now
and his eyes started watering.

After a few minutes of walking Jasper walked out into the streets with a solid
amount of muggle cash on himself. He hoped he would be alone for the rest of
his lifetime as he had absolutely no intention of seeing Lucius Malfoy ever
again.
Jasper walked into one of the shops and looked around. It was definitely
something in his taste and he would be glad to wear those kinds of clothes
every time. He didn’t want robes. A young shop assistant walked to him and
smiled. “Hi, need any help?”

“I need something fitting. Some nice jeans if you know what I mean.” Jasper
said with a smile, winking to the girl, who grinned. She nodded, taking him by
the hand and leading to one part of the shop. It wasn’t too busy at this time
of day and Jasper almost had the whole shop to himself. They picked out a few
pairs of different trousers and even more shirts. Jasper was ready to spend
whole day trying out outfits, especially that the assistant turned out to be
really nice. He tried a few outfits, picking out clothes that matched or not.
He also picked warmer clothes for winter a two pairs of shoes. It was a lot in
his opinion, but he was so angry that he was ready to spend a ton in the shop
just to piss Lucius off.

Jasper sighed, seeing the first drops of rain on the shop windows. The anger
was slowly escaping from him and Jasper realised he had no idea how to return
to the manor. If need be he would just return to Hogwarts and wait for Lucius
there. He turned around and looked at his back. These were probably the
tightest jeans he ever had on, but they fit perfectly. Suddenly they heard a
bell and Jasper looked at Lucius. The man had his mask on, but Jasper suspected
he was angry. They were both looking at each other for a while.
“Do you have everything you need?” Lucius asked finally and Jasper looked at
the mirror again. He could feel Lucius seize him up with his eyes. “They look
great on you.”

“I’m not sure.” Jasper said. Lucius’ appearance seemed to just crush his self-
esteem and he had no idea why. He just felt so insecure even though he just
heard a compliment. Lucius walked up to him, he was dry despite the heavy rain
outside. “Sorry for being rude. I was just frustrated.”
“I don’t blame you. I should be more mindful of your mental state.” Lucius
said. He seemed to have relaxed more in the empty shop. There were no wizards
around and it was much more relaxing for both of them. “Are you alright?”
“I’m better now, but I’m getting tired.” Jasper admitted.

“Were taking those, they look great. What are they made of?” Lucius asked,
touching the top of the jeans. Jasper blushed and chuckled.
“You don’t know so much.” He shook his head. “It’s called jeans, it’s really
comfortable.”
“What if you get cold?” Lucius asked, frowning. The assistant decided to leave
them alone.
“ I just put on a jacket like today. If it’s too hot I can take it off. How do
you stay alright in this cocoon?” Jasper rolled his eyes, but he had a smile on
his face. “I still expect affectionate cuddling when we get back.

“Cooling and heating spells.” Lucius answered, shrugging. “Cuddling sound
alright.”
“Will you try something on?” Jasper asked, pulling the curtain closed and
changing quickly into his own clothes. He walked out and looked at Lucius,
expecting an answer. “Listen, I know it’s much, but look at it this way- you
can’t force everything through and I’m not even talking about us. Maybe try
being more modern and this way people will welcome you more on the political
stage. Especially my generation.” He whispered, walking close to his partner.
“Let me try to convince you.”

“Not like I can lose anything by trying on clothes.” Lucius agreed unable to
resist the teen. He felt better seeing a smile on his face. Happy Jasper just
seemed to heart-warming and Lucius would be happy to keep him this way. Jasper
took the shop assistant with him, while Lucius patiently waited on the couch in
front of the fitting rooms.

The smaller blond walked back with a set of clothes. “Come on in.” Jasper
encouraged him, happy that he was able to convince Lucius to do something. He
smiled wider, hearing the man groan.

“This is a pain to get off.” Lucius said, wincing. Jasper stuck his head inside
the changing box and he blinked.
“You’re wearing like ten layer.” He exclaimed terrified at how much clothing
his partner had on. Jasper slipped, helping Lucius with the ton of fabric he
had on. It seemed extremely uncomfortable and heavy. He hissed seeing the red
areas on Lucius’ sides. “You’re not wearing this at home anymore. I’m picking
you more clothes and I’ll pay for them. You’re hurting yourself.”

“I’m fine, that’s normal.” Lucius insisted, but Jasper would hear none of it.
The teen realised he was squeezing this man and he felt terrible for it. No
matter how much he didn’t like Lucius he didn’t want to hurt him. Jasper wasn’t
cruel.
“I don’t care if it’s ‘normal’. It hurts you and you’re not wearing it.” Jasper
said with a worried look on his face that successfully shut Lucius up. Jasper
helped him dress up and Lucius looked at himself in the mirror.

“These are definitely lighter.” Lucius admitted. He was dressed in a shirt with
a geometric print, straight black trousers and a jacket made of the same
material. It looked good on him, at least in Jasper’s opinion. “And
comfortable.”
“You look handsome.” Jasper said and Lucius looked at him. “I’m serious.”
“I haven’t heard that in a while.” Lucius chuckled, looking at himself. It
wasn’t a bad change, but it was weird.
“You’re handsome and I’m honest.” Jasper reassured him. “These look great and I
think everyone would follow you if you dressed like that.”
“I might be a politician, but you’re good at talking people into things.”
Jasper laughed at the comment.

“Want to try something else?” Jasper asked and Lucius nodded, allowing the teen
to roam the shop again. He wanted to see what Jasper would bring him next.
“Is he your boyfriend?” Jasper turned his head to the assistant, who whispered
to him.
“You can call him that.” Jasper nodded, picking out some comfortable clothes
and t-shirts. Lucius definitely wasn’t used to this, but Jasper wanted to make
sure he loved it. He didn’t want to see him hurt by some stupid clothes.

Jasper made Lucius try a few more outfits. Some more or less elegant, but they
all fit well. They went to the cash registry and Jasper paid for everything.
“I’ll pay you back when we get home.” Lucius said, now back in his robes. They
must have looked ridiculous, but they quickly moved to another shop. Jasper
bought a big umbrella, making Lucius hold it. He placed his hand on the man’s
arm, holding part of the clothes they bought. “Is that what muggles do during
rain?” Lucius asked. It was charming to walk so close to Jasper, who seemed
happy.
“Yeah. I really love rain. It’s so calming.” Jasper nodded. They reached
Hogsmeade and returned to the mansion.
“We still have the pastries.” Lucius said, walking to him from behind and
embracing the teen.
“Our relationship is really odd.” Jasper said with a smile, feeling a kiss on
the side of his neck. The teen tilted his head, allowing more access.
“You wanted affectionate cuddling from what I recall.” Lucius said, looking at
the teen.
“As soon as you get out of this cloth torture device you wear.” Jasper said,
turning to him with a smile. Lucius sighed, but then a light smile appeared on
his face. Jasper cared about him. He tried to conceal that, but Lucius felt
relieved having Jasper’s support. He didn’t know it felt that good to have
someone at your back, keeping you motivated. Lucius undressed and he was handed
a comfy set of clothes. “Don’t put on the top.” Jasper stopped him in the
middle of his tracks and pulled out a small jar of a healing salve. He had it
in his trunk in case someone strained a muscle during fitness.
He stood before Lucius and he gently covered the red areas with the salve. He
smiled gently, feeling the bigger hand on his cheek and Jasper leaned into the
touch. “You don’t need to be so gentle.”

“But I want to.” Jasper answered simply, smiling to him. Lucius leaned down,
kissing his forehead in a silent thank you. “We can work this through.”
Lucius nodded, when Jasper finished using the salve. Lucius dressed up and he
pulled Jasper close. “Cuddles?” Jasper asked and Lucius chuckled, nodding. They
moved to a small salon that was as old-fashioned as the rest of the house.
Lucius sat down with Jasper on his lap, the smaller male resting his head on
his shoulder.
Jasper smiled happily thanks to the relaxing atmosphere. They both seemed
content with how the things were right now. “Would you like to see the mind
healer tomorrow?” Lucius asked, looking at the teen, who bit his lip.

“Is that really necessary? I’ve tried it before and it didn’t work.” Jasper
said, looking into the icy blue eyes.
“I want you to heal. You have mood swings and I’m afraid something might happen
to you while I’m not at home.” Lucius said, straightening himself. Jasper
shifted, straddling him now.

“Alright.” He said, agreeing to talk to whoever Lucius picked for him. “If I
don’t like them we switch the person.” Lucius nodded, happy to work out an
agreement. Jasper leaned in closer and their lips brushed together.

The teen could feel strong hands, taking place on his hips quickly and he
hummed happily. Jasper placed his arms around his neck and looked into Lucius’
eyes. Their lips met again and Jasper blushed. Lucius was good at this and the
teen was completely inexperienced.
They pulled away, Jasper feeling his body heat up. He was hot now and he had
shivers running down his back. He felt Lucius’ hands on his body and he moaned
quietly. Jasper answered another kiss, feeling his heart pound inside his
chest. Their lips clashed as they continued snogging. Jasper pulled away
breathing heavily and looked at his future spouse. “You’re good.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Lucius said lowly, a smile appearing on his face.
Jasper giggled, half in excitement, half in nervousness. “You’re not bad
yourself. You look so amazing.”
“Topping you?” Jasper asked teasingly, leaning in and smooching his partner.
“You’re still the bottom darling.” Lucius held his chin gently and kissed him
again. Jasper answered, happy with how they were. The teen licked his lips,
caressing Lucius’ cheek with his thumb. “I take it as an agreement.” Jasper
nodded with a smile.
“I’m sure we should be doing something else.” Jasper murmured with a grin,
pulling the ribbon that was tying Lucius hair back. He brushed his fingers
through them with a warm smile. He felt butterflies in his stomach and he felt
warm and bubbly.

“Just discussing a few important matters and getting along. I think we’re doing
a pretty good job on the second front.” Lucius said and Jasper chuckled
completely carefree. Lucius pulled him closer, kissing him passionately. They
both got lost in the kisses, enjoying each other’s company.
Suddenly someone cleared their throat and they both nearly jumped to their
feet. Jasper turned red seeing professor Snape standing in the door, Hermione
by his side. “And I thought you weren’t getting along.” Severus commented with
a smirk.
***** Chapter 14 *****
Jasper felt embarrassed standing next to Lucius. He could feel Hermione's eyes
on him. "What in the heavens do you have on? " Severus asked, looking at his
friend with a smirk.
"Yeah, go on un your uncomfortable clothes. I want to see you take them off for
over an hour." Lucius answered, looking at Severus amused. "Besides these are
my home clothes. You should try them."
Hermione took Jasper by the arm, leading him into another room. "I thought
you'd never get along." She said, looking at the blond.
"Oh, we fought today. So everything's normal." Jasper smiled at her and
Hermione chuckled. "Over clothes of course. You have no idea, but in the end
he's there in a track suit and I'm happy."
"You seemed occupied with each other." Hermione said with a warm smile. She
moved to the window and looked outside. "That's a nice garden."
"Yeah, but the house is too old. I don't want to be here. I feel dusty just by
being here and it's going to be another argument." Jasper admitted, sighing
heavily. "How's Snape?"
"Alright so far. A bit stiff, but he's not a bad man." Hermione smiled. "He's
really protective though and he glares at my friends all the time. Not that
anyone else can tell the difference. I see it in his eyes."
"I think it's the mentality. Lucius is really affectionate when I need it and I
feel safe even if I stress a lot." Jasper admitted. "Do you want some tea?"
"Yeah, that'd be nice." Hermione nodded following Jasper out of the room. The
older men looked at them curiously.
"Finished talking about us behind our backs?" Lucius asked and Jasper grinned.
"Yeah. We agreed that you're old and crazy." Jasper said bluntly. "Can you
order tea?" He asked settling himself next to Lucius, who had an amused smirk
on his face.
"Oh, I see. I take back the convincing part from earlier." Lucius said with a
smirk, pulling Jasper close. The teen kissed him briefly.
"You're still old and crazy." Jasper said with a teasing smile. Hermione sat
next to Severus and she giggled quietly.
"So what brings you here?" Lucius asked, raising one of his eyebrows. Jasper
knew he was ignoring his request on purpose and made a face at his partner.
"We thought you'd be on the brink of killing each other." Severus explained and
he almost laughed when he caught Jasper burning holes in Lucius' face with his
eyes. "I think he wanted tea."
"He called me old and crazy. He can want whatever." Lucius responded,
completely ignoring Jasper's presence. The teen got closer until he was just
inches away from the older man.
"I'm living at my place." He announced finally, standing up. Lucius' mouth fell
open surprised at the sudden anger coming from the teen.
"Fine. You'll have your tea, bit come back here." Lucius said extending an arm
to the teen. Jasper tiptoed back to his side with a wide, triumphant grin.
"Don't be so visibly full of yourself."
"Mhm. Were you saying something?" Jasper asked, placing his arms around his
neck. Lucius glared at him and the teen chuckled. "Oh, don't be mad."
"You're lucky you're cute." Jasper huffed angrily at the adjective. He was by
no means cute abd he would not take it. "Don't make such a face."
"You're a fucking condescending douchebag with a silver spoon in your mouth,
you know that?" Jesper growled annoyed. He sat down, crossing his arms on his
chest.
"Oh, I get that for being nice. You're impossible." Lucius sighed, rolling his
eyes. "See what I'm dealing with? He has mood swings of a pregnant woman."
"No, I've got mood swings of a psychiatric patient." Jasper stood up, rolling
his eyes. He was angry and he didn't want to take it out on anyone else. It was
his fault for getting mad and being an idiot. He hated going through this.
Suddenly he yelped when he was raised up in the air.
"What are you doing?" Jasper asked, looking at Lucius with wide eyes. He was
still in the salon, pressed against the man's chest.
"You have spaced out." Lucius said, returning to the couch with the teen in his
arms. "Just rest."
"Sorry. I didn't mean it." Jasper apologised, resting against the older man.
"Are you alright? " Hermione asked worried, looking at the blond. Jasper smiled
weakly.
"I'll be fine. It's just I don't take changes well so I'm more stressed than
usual." Jasper explained. He was just getting used to everything. "I got a
panic attack waking up in the night so I need time to get used to everything."
"He needs stability so I guess I'm more compliant than usual." Lucius admitted,
massaging his back. Jasper kissed him on the cheek gratefully and the older man
held him closer.
"I can see that. I thought you were just going to abuse him." Severus said with
a smirk and Lucius rolled his eyes. A tea set appeared and Lucius poured each
of them a cup. He handed one of them to the boy on his lap.
"Can I get honey?" Jasper asked, looking at the older man. Lucius kissed him
and ordered a jar of honey from the kitchen. Jasper smiled, taking a sip anyway
to judge how much honey he needed. "Thanks."
"You're welcome." Lucius responded, then looking at his friend. "So how are you
to doing?"
"Reasonably well." Severus said and Jasper giggled seeing Hermione roll her
eyes.
"Reasonably bad rather. " Hermione corrected him. "He took points from my house
for hanging out with my friends yesterday. It was an hour! " She complained and
Jasper rose one of his eyebrows.
"I'm so glad you're the gay one." Lucius laughed at his partner's comment.
Jasper seemed irritated by what he heard. Then Lucius remembered his crusade to
make every magical creature equal to wizards. Jasper had a strong longing for
justice.
"You suddenly like me?" Lucius asked teasingly. Jasper grabbed the jar he was
handed by a house elf.
"Yeah, but it's probably gonna change at least five times more today." Jasper
said with a bitter smile. He didn't want to be like that. Lucius deserved
better. This man took his state into account and Jasper was sure this didn't
come easy.
"I got the appointment for tomorrow. I'll take you there in the morning. It's
in Hogsmeade." Lucius informed him and Jasper nodded, taking a sip of his honey
tea. "Now seriously. Give her back the points or else I'm going to listen to
Jasper rant for the next week."
Severus looked at him as if he wasn't serious. "I'm his professor as well. I'
not going to change just because your boyfriend wants me to."
"From what I know professors aren't allowed to have relationships with
students." Jasper argued, draining his cup quickly. He snuggled into Lucius,
leaning into gentle touch the man was providing him with. He felt much more
confident like that, using his partner as a reassurance that he wasn't alone.
"You can't tie her to the bed Sev." Lucius said and he saw the other man avert
his gaze. "I now you don't like the thought of losing what's yours. I don't
like that either." Lucius sighed, looking at the teen who threatened to live in
a different house without a a second thought. Malfoy was sure that the teen
could manage on his own and he would still be happy without him. "But I can't
take him for granted. I've learned full damn well that he's going to leave no
matter what if he doesn't get what he wants."
"Don't tell me he gets everything." Severus looked at him as if he lost his
mind, making Jasper huff in annoyance.
"We compromise." Lucius answered wincing at the word. He didn't like the sound
of it. He never had to step off before and it was hard. "Yes, yes. I'm crazy
and I'm going soft."
"You're not crazy. You have a fucking brain and you actually give a fuck about
people instead of just taking everything in your stride. We're not playing
death eaters anymore." Jasper hissed and everyone else seemed to freeze on the
stop. "You're so protective and yet you can't admit that you made a mistake out
loud. No, instead it's hiding behind your mistake, age or family."
"What can you know you insolent brat? Just because your parents lived by a
moronic delusion doesn't mean you're any smarter." Snape snarled at him and
Jasper clenched his fists. Suddenly he felt Lucius' hand take his gently.
"Break." Lucius said, pulling the winded up teen out of the room. The room fell
silent as Hermione crossed her arms on her chest, refusing to even look at her
future husband.
In the corridor Lucius pressed his future husband against the wall. "Do you
have to make everything an argument?" The older man asked sternly.
"I'll stop when he stops being a dick to her." Jasper hissed, letting his
husband dominate him completely. He felt a knee slide between his legs. "It
can't be like that."
"That's not your concern Jasper. Focus on us instead of putting yourself in
somebody else's relationship." Lucius said calmly, trying to relax his partner.
"He insulted my parents!" Jasper said angrily,tears gathering in his eyes.
Lucius sighed, having no idea how to calm the teen down.
"Don't give me that look." Lucius said, seeing Jasper stare at him sadly.
"Are you alright?" They both turned to see Hermione walk up to them. Lucius
moved away, but he was still close to the teen. She seemed concerned and Jasper
brushed off the tears, nodding quickly. He didn't want to worry her. "I'm sorry
you have to stand up for me."
"Don't say things like that. I'd rather get stress and hope something gets
through his thick scull than let him bully you." Jasper answered with a weak
smile. "I'll be alright, besides I can count on some cuddling later." Lucius
chuckled, seeing the look in Jasper's eyes when he glanced at him.
"That's the only think we're good at." Jasper and Hermione laughed at the
comment. "Upstairs, the second door on the right. There's a small living room.
Just flick your fingers and call Poppy. " Jasper grinned, turning to his
husband.
"I'll wear those uncomfortable torture devices when it's needed." Lucius shook
his head and he let Jasper kiss him happily. It was easy to get his lover
compliant. "But only when it's a sophisticated occasion."
"Alright.Go now." Lucius said, hurrying them upstairs. He winced at the thought
of his pissed of friend, who was sitting in the living room. Lucius returned to
the room, looking at Severus who was muttering angrily to himself.
"Where's the rest?" He asked coldly, looking at Malfoy. Lucius sat back down on
the couch.
"Upstairs. They'll probably have tea and relax. Let them be." Lucius said,
intentionally leaving out the exact location of the room. It was hard balancing
on the edge between his friend and his new partner. He knew Severus for a long
time, but she had a life with Jasper ahead of him.
"Is he really mentally ill?" Severus asked, looking at his friend. Lucius
winced, standing back up again.
" I had my assistant do some research." Lucius said, waving his wand. A stack
of papers floated into the room and landed on the table . "There's a lot. I
haven't read it all yet, but I regretted taking him in after the first page."
He watched Severus take the first few pages. "A shelter for magical creatures?"
Severus asked surprised.
"That's why I regretted it. I know he wants to do the same." Lucius said. "He's
not a bad person though. He's strong and assertive most of the times."
"They have been classified as potential allies of the Dark Lord by the
ministry." Severus said astonished.
"Yes. I don't know what relationship they really had with either of the sides,
but whatever it was it earned them an execution." Lucius caught his friend's
stern look. "A vampire protected him. Apparently they still keep in touch. He
still has a scar coming across his chest."
"A curse?" Severus said. He wanted to go through the pile out of pure
curiosity.
"Probably a nasty one. I apparently cut through the vampire." Lucius said,
wincing at the thought. Vampire's blood resembled a black slime and stunk
terribly from what he remembered.
"You're telling me he witnessed a slaughter and he's like that because of it."
Severus stated and Lucius nodded hesitantly.
"I have no idea what he saw and it's not time for a talk like that. He's having
a hard time here." Lucius answered, looking at the door. He paled seeing Jasper
standing in the door as pale as a ghost.
"I couldn't summon the elf." He said flatly, no emotion in his voice. Lucius
had no idea if it was quiet before the storm or he's going to witness a small
apocalypse.
***** Chapter 15 *****
Jasper couldn't tell what he felt by looking at the pile on the table. He
wasn't thinking as he moved to the pile, moving through it quickly and taking
all the pictures from between the pages. He ignored his trembling hands or his
brain that was creating alarming images in his head. He pushed everything away
from himself, deciding that isolation was better than anything else now.
"Can you ask the elves to bring us some biscuits and tea upstairs?" He asked
finally, looking at his future husband. Lucius looked as if what Jasper was now
doing was the most extraordinaire thing he has ever witnessed. The blond stood
before him, clutching the pictures. The pile was stacked evenly on the table
and it made Lucius worry more than anything else.
"Give me those." Lucius asked softly, extending his hand for the pictures.
"I don't want you to look at them." Jasper answered, narrowing his eyes. He
looked at the familiar pictures with a cold expression.
"I won't think less of you." Lucius assured him. He didn't want Jasper to
possess something that would traumatise him every time he looked at it.
"It's not about me." Jasper answered, still not raising his eyes from the
pictures. He immediately switched over one of them. "I'll hide them. I don't
want to look at them either. I've seen most of them a thousand times."
"I won't look at them, but I still don't want you to have them." Lucius said,
standing up. He pushed Jasper's chin up, forcing the teen to look at him. "I'm
not going to laugh at corpses just because they are not of wizards. You cared
about those people."
Jasper let his partner pull him closer. "I' ll hide them myself." Lucius
assured him again, massaging his back.
"Alright. If we burn this one." Jasper said, quickly folding the picture he
skipped. Lucius looked at him questioningly. and Jasper sighed. "I'll tell you
later, when we're alone.
"We should go anyway." Severus stood up, spotting Hermione walking towards the
room. "Come on." He said to the girl, who looked at him coldly in response.
Jasper smiled weakly, listening to her curse like a sailor a few minutes
earlier. Lucius walked them back to the fireplace in his study after Hermione
and Jasper hugged.
The teen sat down, opening the picture and looking at it grimly. He rose his
head and folded it back when he heard footsteps. Lucius appeared in the room
and sat next to him. Jasper passed him the folded photo. The man paled, looking
at the contents of the morbid photo.
"That's you. Your corpse." Jasper nodded, closing his eyes. Lucius stared at
him, hoping to get some answers.
"They wanted us dead." Jasper said. "They would just finish me if I was alive.
So Jace though that it was best not to heal me right away. Instead he let me
bleed out and he gave me some of his own."
" You didn't turn into a vampire?" Lucius asked sceptical.
"Let me finish. To change into a vampire you need a burial. He took me out of
the morgue and healed me." Jasper explained, sighing heavily. "I know this
sounds absurd, but now I'm safe. They weren't aware of my existence until I
came to Hogwarts. Then they couldn't just erase me without anyone noticing."
Jasper fell silent, looking at his future husband, looking at the picture. "You
were so small." Lucius said, looking at the corpse of a child. He looked at
Jasper knowing that this person could not be sitting next to him right now.
"I was a kid. I don't remember it, but Jace has his vampire magic and rituals.
I don't understand them fully, but I'm thankful." Jasper said and he smiled as
he was pulled close. "I was considered dead for a long time."
"So you weren't in any therapy." Lucius concluded and Jasper nodded.
"I was never diagnosed, so I might have just thought something up in my head
unintentionally." The teen admitted.
"You definitely have a trauma and we'll treat it." Lucius said, considering
everything. " We'll live here for now. i know you're not happy with that, but
it's a stable environment."
"It's okay for now, but I'm afraid to touch anything here in case I break it."
Jasper said, closing his eyes. Lucius took the pictures from the teen, placing
them face down on the table. Jasper looked at him, welcoming the kiss he got.
They kissed for a long while and Jasper nearly melted in the embrace.
"You won't. " Lucius responded.
"I want a normal house. I'm 16 not 60." Lucius sighed. "Plus you promised to
build one for us or something. "
"I was trying to calm you down …" Lucius said hesitantly, looking at his
partner.
"I don't care. You said it and you have to do it." Jasper demanded, not letting
him back away. "I want a house just for us. Me, you and your son. I know he
won't like me, but I'll try."
"Stop. Draco can't treat you badly just because you're not his mother. I won't
have that." Lucius responded strictly, looking in Jasper's eyes. "If you manage
to make a project I'll like then I guess it's alright. Including the interior."
Lucius said seriously and Jasper pulled a face on him, not really happy with
the compromise. Of course his partner would turn down any designs he would cone
up with.
"But you have to be honest and tell me what you like and don't like." Jasper
demanded, looking at him.
***** Chapter 16 *****
Jasper looked at his friends, sitting back at Hogwarts. He was angry with his
future husband and he had a good reason. Jasper bluntly refused to be left
alone in the house when his partner was called into work. Instead of thinking
up anything else- like letting him clean up at his own home- Lucius dropped him
at Hogwarts.
Now Jasper not only had his friends staring at him in wonder, but also another
person always at his back. The blond turned around just to glare at Draco
Malfoy angrily for digging holes in his back. Jasper didn't like Lucius' son
one bit. Another ass with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Jasper blinked and suddenly Malfoy was standing in front of him. "Come on."
Jasper looked at him and blinked. "I know you're a nutjob, but maybe you can at
least stop being embarrassing in public."
Jasper groaned and scowled, standing up." I won't take shit from your father
and I won't take shit from you little clone." Jasper responded sharply. "Your
gfather managed to make me angry so don't try to drive me insane if you may."
"What did he do?" Draco asked, raising his eyebrow when Jasper started walking
towards the exit. Draco followed and Jas wished he would just lose interest.
"He was called in to work and apparently I can't be left alone to clean my own
house." Jasper answered when Draco started walking next to him. "I haven't been
there for a bit, but no."
"I guess he just wanted me to talk to you. Sometimes he does weird things like
that." Draco said, sighing. "Do you want to go? To your place?"
"Are you serious? I know it's Saturday, but we are not allowed to leave the
school ground." Jasper answered and his eyes widened in surprise seeing Draco
grin.
"You don't know me. Come on." Draco pulled him towards the kitchens and the
Hufflepuff common room. Before the kitchens they turned into a narrow corridor
that Jasper realised he never noticed. He followed Draco with an unsure look on
his face. They walked out in the Middle of Hogsmeade. "See? "
Jasper rolled his eyes.
"You should be within the school premises." Jasper said, pulling him close.
Draco looked at him stunned as he blinked. "Look. Go back. I don't want you in
trouble."
"Stop it. I'm not stupid." Draco answered, looking at him. "Besides it's just a
few hours. You'll be able to clean up."
Jasper sighed, walking towards the pub in the middle of the village. He didn't
want to drag Draco into this. He would be his father in a month and he was
responsible… it was so wrong. He just led Draco to his house, using a small
portkey that Jace made for him.
Jasper looked at the old house, frowning. It didn't look wrong, taking that it
was abandoned, but for him it was almost unbearable. He could see Draco's face.
"Your house is older." Jasper said walking to the front door. Draco followed
slightly hesitant. The paint was peeling of the walls now and Jasper wasn't
sure if a repaint could help. The whole house was falling apart under the
influence of termites. Jasper was sure he should have sold it long ago or
demolish it at least.
He just didn't want to. The child in him hoped that his parents would welcome
him to the door. The interior looked better than the outside. Everything was
still in place, covered mostly by a thick layer of dust that shocked even
Draco. It was as if, despite his words, Jasper hasn't been here for a long
time. Draco eyed the other blond suspiciously.
Jasper didn't pay much attention to him, walking straight upstairs as if being
in the room physically hurt. Draco followed after him quietly curious and
freaked out at the same time. The upstairs was noticeably cleaner, the dust
wasn't as thick and it appeared to have been cleaned in the past few months.
Jasper walked into a room on the left and Draco stopped in the door frame
shocked. He watched Jasper's hands glow slightly and suddenly z wave of magic
hit him. Draco's eyes widened as burnt out candles reversed to their original
state and the dust disappeared. Jasper took his time to lighteach of them
separately and Draco couldn't believe his eyes.
Jasper stopped right before the young Malfoy remembering suddenly that he
wasn't alone. Draco saw him. Draco knew he could do wandless magic. "That's
amazing. You have to teach me that." Jasper sighed hearing Draco. He was a bit
relieved, but also concerned. He didn't want Lucius to know about this.
"Don't tell anyone about it." Draco gave him a shocked look. Jasper just passed
him in the door, going to his own bedroom. He looked around with acreeping
sense of misery. He was completely hopeless. He was prep talking himself into
accepting Lucius. He hated the manor he was supposed to live in. Jasper sat
down on the bed.
"What's wrong?" Draco asked, sitting next to him. It was such a bizarre
situation and he felt uncomfortable. At the same time it was one of the few
times he felt sorry for somebody. As an aristocrat he didn't handle his own
emotions well. Neither did his father.
"Do you really wantto hear all that? I know you won't understand and I don't
mind… I don't want Lucius to know." He admitted.
"I don't want him knowing I'm outside school premises. " Draco said with a
light smile. " I won't tell. I know how to keep my secrets."
"Come on." Jasper stood up, giving Draco a hand.
"To where?" Draco asked with a confused expression.
"Downstairs." Jas answered with a grim look on his face. "Just bear with me. I
haven't stepped in there since the massacre. I hate that room."
"I'm there. It's not much, but I'll pull you upstairs if anything." Draco
reassured him, even though he wasn't sure how he will react. The stopped
walking before a set of closed doors.
Jasper opened them with a key and Draco gasped, seeing the room before him.
There were remnants of an old cozy living room, the warm wall paper was coming
off in a few spots. There was a nice wooden floor beneath his feet. It
wasbasically all that looked vaguely normal in the room. The couches opposite
from them had claw marks all over them.
"Alfie, a lone werewolf was trying to protect us. He killed a few of them, but
it wasn't enough. He wasn't here long, but he was so gentle." Jasper said,
following Draco's sight. "They bound him with silver and copper chains before
they chopped off his head."
"Did they make that hole?" Draco asked, pointing at the giant missing part of
the wall. The breeze freely came in, but the nature seemed to stop at the wall
as if it was still standing.
"They blasted it suddenly. It was in the middle of the day and we were playing
board games. It knocked down my mother and… my little sister." Jasper squat
down, brushing through his hair with his fingers. "They were death at the spot-
probably brain damage. Dad tried his best."
Draco looked at the other teen, with a comapssionate expression. Looking at
Jasper suffer wasn't a pleasant sight. He was shaking and Draco wanted to just
pull him away right now, without even going further. "My and Elodie hid behind
the other couch as the rest fought. I didn't see much. I just remember someone
hearing for us to run. Elodie was a skinny nyph, but she was quick even with
me. They had spells." The blond continued his tale. "They bound her foot in
some sort of a trap. There was a huge trail of blood behind us as she ran. They
caught us eventually."
"They brought us back here and I heard my father scream. There was a lot of
bodies and even more blood. One of the bodies was pinned to the wall and
skinned. They bound me to the dining table. I didn't know what was going on at
the time. Now I'm sure they raped her before killing her off. Just for the fun
of it." Jasper sat down on the floow, now looking a bit sick. Draco sat next to
him, looking around the room. "My father begged for my life. The next thing I
saw was a scalpel. It's like a knife used for healing surgeries. They cut me
open laughing before one of them pushed a knife between my father's eyes. Then
they left, leaving me like that. They probably hoped animals would get to
eatnme alive. For some reason Jace decided to visit. I don't remember him
coming, but I woke up in a morgue with him right next to me. Somehow I'm here
now."
"Merlin. This is sick." Draco said feeling slightly nauseous. Jasper stood up,
helping him up once again.
"Maybe let's get some tea? Then Hogwarts. I've had enough memories for today."
Jasper said, mustering a weak smile. He felt tired and exhausted, but it was
nice to confess.
Draco stood up next to him. "I'm not good at this." He said and Jasper frowned
in response. Suddenly he was pulled into a hug. Jasper smiled, wrapping his
arms around Draco. "You're cold. Let's get something warm in Hogsmeade." Jasper
smiled when he was realeased from the embrace. Draco looked embarrassed and was
red as a tomato.
They both spent about an hour in a cafe talking. Jasper was surprised at how
easily he got along woth Draco and how they both enjoyed magic. The young heir
probably had no idea how much he resembled his father. Lucius and him were very
similar. 'Equally stubborn' Jasper thought as Draco insisted to pay for their
tea and cake. They returned to Hogwarts quietly and their disappearance has
knly been noticed by Draco's friends and professor Snape, who quickly
disappeared through the back door.
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