Drarry - A New Beginning

Chapter 1. September

Harry simply shared a look with Ron, the pair smiling to themselves at the classic Hermione response, the never expected anything less

"This is probably the most relaxed I've felt in a long time" Ron sighed, smiling gently taking in the views in front of him

"I agree, Ron. I mean.. being with your family across the summer was wonderful... but I guess it's nice to finally have some space to ourselves"

"I think Mum appreciates the space too!" Ron chuckled

"I'm just glad to be back" Harry announced after some time. "I wasn't sure I wanted to return, not after the battle, but actually... seeing the positive changes here now... it feels like home again"

Hermione nodded, giving her usual look of pity Harry's way

"You know what did surprise me though?" Ron added "Malfoy, I really thought we'd seen the last of him after he ran off with mummy and daddy back in the courtyard. Bloody coward"

Harry nodded in agreement "I know the Ministry let him free last month. He was underage when he took the Dark Mark anyway, I think they blame the parents"

Ron shook his head "He got lucky if you ask me"

"Still, why would he want to return to Hogwarts? I thought he hated everything about this school" Hermione asked

"No idea" Harry shrugged "Though I actually bumped into him in the corridor yesterday, literally, we crashed right into each other and he didn't curse at me or anything, he actually apologised... and asked if I was okay..."

Ron and Hermione looked at him with raised eyebrows

"He apologised? To you?" Ron asked

Harry nodded "It was the weirdest thing. He was so quiet and timid, no name-calling, no shoving or anything. Voldemort probably scared the crap out of him"

"I bloody hope he stays like that. One more year of him I think I'll lose it. If he so much as comes near me I'll rub his smug face straight into the dirt" Ron growled

"Maybe he's changed since the war?" Hermione pondered "Many people have been affected by the war and Malfoy was dragged in rather deep with his fathers ties to Voldemort"

"Changed or not, I don't want to spend a single minute with that git" Ron added

Harry looked out across the grounds thinking of reasons why Malfoy could have returned. An anxious feeling in the pit of his stomach was praying that he wasn't back to cause more trouble. People were still recovering as it was and he'd hoped he wouldn't be spending much time near him anyway. Regardless, his bizarre encounter with the Slytherin left him feeling curious, maybe there was still time to salvage some form of civility

"So!" Hermione slapped her thighs with excitement, startling Ron. "What do we think of our first week back? I personally think it's thrilling to finally be studying again. Though I must admit our new History of Magic class is a little on the dull side, I'm sure Professor Peattle will find her stride soon. I am slightly disappointed about there being less extracurricular work this year but I'm sure I can ask for additional projects" She smiled to herself

Ron glanced across to Harry with a subtle smirk. Yes. Everything felt normal again.

"I saw that look, Ronald!" she gasped swatting his arm

Harry felt a warmth seeing his two best friends curled together in such happiness. After months of suffering, fear and uncertainty, the smiles were returning, the laughter grew louder and the brightness for their futures was stronger. They finally felt at peace. It was going to be a good year.

________________________________________

A note from Professor McGonagall:

To all returning 8th Year Students

Due to the decreased number of returning students, all 8th year students shall be moving to a shared accommodation on the 7th floor of the castle.

Each student will be given their own room, marked by their initials where they will find their belongings waiting for them. The 8th Year common room will accommodate all houses collectively, so we trust you all to be respectful to one another and uphold the same values as always.

Students will need to have their trunks packed and ready no later than November 2nd, 9am. This includes all study materials, personal belongings and extracurricular equipment. Your belongings shall be moved to the new shared dormitories on the day where you will find everything in its new place

Should you have any queries, please speak to your current head of house

Regards,

Professor McGonagall

Headmistress