A New Love [Harry/Astoria - NC-17]

[hpraremod]

Title: A New Love
Author/Artist: lrthunder
Prompt: Own prompt
Pairing(s): Harry/Astoria
Word Count/Art Medium: 3289
Rating: NC-17
Warning(s): Sex
Disclaimer:Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes:
Summary: Harry and Astoria realize they're perfect for each other, despite their friends' manipulations.



Harry loved Hermione, but sometimes she could be a real pain in the neck.  When they had first met, it was about school rules.  Now, it was about finding a wife for him, since Ginny was gone.  Two years had passed since Ginny had passed away, and now Hermione felt it was time for him to find a new mother for his children.

For the past two weeks, she had given him names of eligible witches who would love to date him.  The problem was that he didn't know any of them.  Sure, most of them worked in the Ministry, but none of them worked in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, either directly for Hermione or for Harry as Aurors.

Fortunately, James, Albus and Lily were at Hogwarts so they wouldn't see the brewing argument.  He had agreed to meet Hermione for lunch at Diagon Alley.  When he saw her approaching, he decided to have it out with her once and for all.

She must have seen the look on his face, because she grimaced.  Like Ron, she knew how nasty his temper could be.  "Harry, I know it seems like I'm pressuring you, but this will be for the last time, okay?"

Harry calmed down.  Since she was apparently willing to play the peacemaker, the least he could do was hear her out.  "Okay, Hermione, who are you setting me up with this time?"

"Wendy Washington.  She's a new hire in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement," Hermione replied.

"If I agree to go on a date with her, will you leave me alone?" Harry asked.

"Of course," she agreed.

* * * * * *

The date was a disaster.  Wendy Washington wouldn't let Harry get a word in.  He grimaced while she talked.  It seemed to be more about her and her wishes and desires.  He cringed when she would say, "I think I would make a great mother," or "your children would love me."  Harry had no wish to subject them to her influence.

After the date, Harry asked Hermione about the names of the other women she had recommended.  Surely, one of them would be better than Washington.  Unfortunately, they were just as bad if not worse.

"You can't say I didn't try, Hermione," he said, entering her office.

"Harry, I'm going to be honest with you.  You were never, what I called a great dater," she said coolly.

"I think Ginny would disagree."

"Ginny didn't count," Hermione said, then paled when Harry glared at her.  "I didn't mean it like that.  I meant that you practically grew up around her.  I'm talking about your dates with Parvati and Cho."

Harry sighed.  "I know, Hermione, but it's still hard thinking Ginny's gone.  I don't know how the kids will react to a new woman in the house."

"I know, but they need a mother.  You can't do everything yourself."

"I know, Hermione, but I just don't need the pressure now."  With that, Harry turned and left her office.

* * * * * *

Before Harry knew it, the kids were home from Hogwarts for the summer holidays.  James and Lily spent most of their days at the Burrow, while Albus hung out with Scorpius.  Harry still had to get used to the sight of his son being best friends with a Malfoy, especially one who looked so much like his father.

Sometimes, Scorpius would spend the day at Grimmauld Place, while other days, Albus would go to Malfoy Manor.  Ron had reacted with alarm at that news, but Harry knew it was a different place with the elder Malfoys gone.  Even Draco's death seemed to give the house a more cheerful-looking appearance.

It was during these visits that Harry got to know Astoria.  Draco, her husband, had passed away shortly after Ginny had.  He didn't know her well at Hogwarts, since she was in Slytherin, and Harry had a tendency to avoid Slytherins.  Yet, he found her quite pleasant and very attractive.

It was clear that her family and mother-in-law had trained her to be a proper host.  She would always have tea waiting in the drawing room when Harry arrived to pick his son up.  She was so pleasant to be around, that Harry started making excuses to arrive even earlier just so he could be in the same room as her.

"Why, Harry Potter, if I didn't know any better, I would say you were flirting with me," Astoria said one day.

Harry blushed.  "That's not my intention, I assure you."

She giggled.  "Don't apologize.  Maybe if I let my dear sister know, she will get off my back."

"Daphne is also pressuring you to find a bloke?  Hermione's doing the same thing to me.  Well, she's not trying to get me a bloke, but you know what I mean," Harry said, blushing furiously.

Astoria smiled.  "Who knows?  Maybe we should start dating and maybe they will stop nagging us."  He opened his mouth to respond and she giggled again.  "I was just joking, Harry."

Maybe she was joking, but it was a proposal he started to take seriously.

* * * * * *

The summer passed quickly, and Harry's kids were back at Hogwarts, leaving him to an empty house.  Even though Kreacher was still alive and cleaning the house, house-elves didn't always make the best company.  As a result, he started inviting Astoria to tea everyday.  She accepted, on the condition that he would visit Malfoy Manor every other day.  "After all, my house is empty as well."

Sometimes, they would have to cancel their dates.  While Harry's position as Head Auror gave him the authority to assign cases to other Aurors, and have a lighter load, there were some cases he still needed to supervise.  Astoria took this in stride, although he could tell she was disappointed.  Truthfully, he was disappointed as well.  He loved being in her company.

Before he knew it, Christmas was quickly approaching.  One day, he was asked to meet with the Minister.  Shacklebolt was busy signing documents when Harry entered the office.  The Minister looked up and smiled.  "Harry, thank you for coming."

"Is there anything you need, Minister?  The criminals are quiet this year.  Maybe they will take a Christmas off for once," Harry chuckled.

Shacklebolt also laughed.  "I doubt it, but this isn't official business.  Well, maybe it could be.  As you know, we have the Annual Christmas Ball for the Ministry."

"How can I forget?  Hermione has continuously asked me to go the last couple of years.  I suppose she was thinking that I would find an eligible witch there," Harry replied.

"There's a change of plans this year, Harry.  I am requiring all Senior Ministry officials to attend the ball," the Minister said.

Harry froze.  "Even me?"

"Even you."

"May I ask why?"

Shacklebolt sat back in his chair and sighed.  "Attendance at the ball has decreased the past few years.  Some of the department heads thought that requiring the senior officials to attend will set a good example for the workers.  I agree."

Harry narrowed his eyes.  "I assume I will need a date?"

"It wouldn't be much of a ball if the attendees didn't bring any dates," Shacklebolt agreed.

Harry cursed under his breath.  Even though Hermione hadn't played matchmaker recently, this had her handwriting all over it.  "Sir, my children will be home from school and…"

"And so will Hermione's, your niece and nephew, and yet, she'll have to attend.  I'm sure arrangements can be made," the Minister replied firmly.

Harry realized it wouldn't do any good to continue the discussion, so he left the office.  Once again, he was going to have a talk with Hermione.

* * * * * *

He tried talking to Hermione, but she continued finding ways to avoid him.  This confirmed this suspicion that the attendance and date requirements were her idea.  Rumors began spreading around the Ministry that Harry was in need of a date.  Witches began throwing themselves at his feet, begging to take them.  His face burned as he realized this was a repeat of his fourth year.

Harry knew he had to find a date soon, because if he didn't, the hysteria would spread outside the Ministry.  An idea began forming in his mind, but he dismissed it.  He didn't know what the Weasleys' reaction would be if he acted on it.  Yet, as they closed in on Christmas, the idea became more practical in his mind.

Besides, he realized he had feelings for her.  What better way to act on them than to ask Astoria Malfoy to be his date for the Christmas Ball?

* * * * * *

It was still a couple of days before the kids returned from Hogwarts for the Christmas holidays.  None of his children had indicated they were staying at school, so he had to make arrangements for the ball.  He figured James and Lily would want to stay at the Burrow, while Albus and Scorpius could stay together.  Maybe Astoria's sister, Daphne, would agree to watch them for the night.

He was gathering his thoughts when the doorbell rang.  He answered it and saw Astoria standing on the doorstep.  "Astoria!  This is a pleasant surprise.  Please come in."

She smiled as she stepped inside.  "Thank you."  Despite her smile, she looked stressed.

"Is something wrong?" he asked, frowning.

"It's my sister," Astoria sighed as she handed Harry her cloak.  "She keeps bothering me about finding a father for Scorpius.  It's worse than ever now."

Perfect.  "Hermione has ramped up her efforts too.  The Ministry is having its annual ball, and all senior Ministry officials have to attend, and have dates," he said.

"Let me guess: you have to attend?" she asked.

"Yes.  This is Hermione's not-so-subtle way of telling me to find a date.  I know she's behind it because she's been avoiding me ever since Minister Shacklebolt told me the happy news."  He paused, almost for dramatic effect.  "Say, Astoria, I have an idea.  Maybe it will get both Hermione and Daphne off our backs."

Astoria smiled slyly, almost like she knew what he was thinking.  "What's your plan?"

"Will you be my date for the Christmas ball?  Listen, I've thought it all out.  When my kids come home for the holidays, James and Lily will go to their grandparents' house.  Your sister can watch over Scorpius and Albus at Malfoy Manor," he suggested.

She nodded and started pacing around the entrance hall.  He wondered if she was delaying her response intentionally.  "While I'm sure the Weasleys would love to watch James and Lily, I don't know if Daphne would want to look after Albus and Scorpius for the rest of the night as well."

He blushed as he realized what she was saying.  She touched his arm lightly and whispered in his ear, "Because I intend to spend the entire night with my Christmas date, even if the ball ends before midnight."

Harry grinned.  "I'm sure arrangements can be made."

* * * * * *

The fireplace at Greengrass Estate lit up, causing Daphne to sit up in anticipation.  A second later, Hermione Granger-Weasley emerged from the fireplace.  "I heard some rumors about Harry and Astoria."

Daphne smirked.  "The rumors are true.  The plan worked."

Hermione grinned.  "And they probably don't think we manipulated them."

"Don't underestimate my sister.  Astoria was a Slytherin and is cunning in her own right.  I'm sure they'll realize they've been played, but only someone like Goyle would fail to see the interest in each other," Daphne warned.

"So, you'll look after Scorpius and Albus for the ball?"

Daphne grinned.  "And the rest of the evening as well.  I don't expect Astoria to return home until around noon."

"I don't need to hear the details about Harry's sex life, thank you very much."

Daphne laughed.

* * * * * *

The music stopped, but Harry and Astoria continued to dance.  Having been married to Ginny, he had improved his dancing skills.  He guided Astoria across the dance floor, moving gracefully.  He heard soft applause as the other couples watched him.  Finally, Astoria signalled she was through dancing, so they left the dance floor.

He saw Hermione beaming, and Ron looking bemused.  When the Weasleys had heard he was taking Astoria to the ball, there were mixed reactions.  Molly, Bill and Charlie were the most supportive, while Ron and George were dumbfounded.  Arthur said he supported the decision, but Harry suspected Mr. Weasley was uncomfortable since Astoria was a Malfoy, even if by marriage.

Another ball attendee caught his eye: Pansy Parkinson.  Unlike Hermione, she narrowed her eyes angrily at him.  She was the date of an unknown worker from a department that Harry couldn't remember at the moment.  He was tempted to go over to her and find out what her problem was until he felt a gentle squeeze on his arm.  Astoria whispered, "Ignore her."

He was only too happy to comply.  He escorted Astoria over to Ron and Hermione.  Hermione hugged Harry briefly before winking at him.  "I see the plan worked," she whispered.

Harry and Ron looked at her with confusion, but Astoria understood.  "How long have you and Daphne been plotting this?"

"You knew about this?"

Astoria smiled sweetly.  "I suspected it, especially the last few times Daphne was supposed to have tea with me and I ended up having some with you instead."

"You're not angry?" Hermione asked a bit hesitantly.

"I'm not anymore," Harry said.  "I realized I was starting to have feelings for Astoria, so I suppose I should thank you and Daphne."

"You're welcome," Hermione grinned, clearly relieved at his reaction.

"Isn't this sweet?" a sour voice called from behind them.

Harry turned and saw Pansy strolling towards them.  She seemed to be glaring at him, but he soon realized it was Astoria who was the real target.  "Draco loved you, Greengrass, and this is how you repay him?"

"Draco would have wanted me to be happy," Astoria said coolly.

"He would not have wanted you whoring your body out to a…"

SMACK!  Harry's eyes widened as he saw Astoria raise her left hand for another slap.  She then raised her wand with her other hand.  Pansy snarled as she raised her wand in response.

"How dare you, you uppity…"

SMACK!  Astoria slapped Pansy again.  Harry moved in between them to stop things from getting worse.  Fortunately, others were moving to intervene.  Pansy's date grabbed her arm and began to escort her out of the ballroom.

"Astoria, let's go," Harry urged her.  He could tell she was furious.  She was breathing heavily and her eyes looked like they were burning with fire.

* * * * * *

Fortunately, the ballroom was in the Ministry itself, because Harry knew Astoria was in no shape to Apparate anywhere, even using Side-Along Apparition.  He took her to his office and closed the door.  He gently escorted her to a chair, which she gratefully accepted.  He moved behind her and started massaging her shoulders.

"What are you doing, Harry?" she asked.  Her voice still trembled with anger, but he could tell she was starting to calm down.

"When Ginny had frustrating practices or matches, she would be uptight when she got home.  We both found that a simple shoulder massage helped calm her.  Are you feeling better?"

Astoria sighed, although he could still feel she was a little tense.  "Yes, Harry, that feels nice.  I'm so sorry."

"It's not your fault, sweetheart.  Pansy was always like this, and…"

She put a hand on his and turned around.  "What did you say?"

"I'm said it's not your fault and that…"

"No.  I mean what did you call me?"

Harry blushed.  "I said sweetheart."

He almost expected her to say something like, "It's too soon," or "I don't see you like that."  Instead, she stood up, wrapped her arms around him and kissed him.  Relieved, he returned the kiss eagerly, wrapping his arms tightly around her waist.

As they continued kissing, Harry felt her hands tug on his robes.  He stopped her and she looked confused.  "I love you, Astoria, but I don't think our first time should be in my office.  I want you to share my bed."

* * * * * *

A trail of clothes led from the front door to Harry's bedroom.  It was partly open as the sounds of sex drifted through the crack.  Harry and Astoria were initially hesitant, but once they became used to each other's touch, they gave themselves fully to the other.  When Harry had slept with Ginny, he was used to her taking charge in the bedroom.

Astoria, however, seemed more submissive.  She wanted him to take the lead, which he was only too happy to do.  His lips and hands explored her body as he continued moving in her.  Her moans grew louder, urging him on.  They continued kissing as the bed started shifting under their movements.

They wanted each other.  They needed each other.  Astoria clung to him as they continued their lovemaking.  She gasped every time he thrust into her.  She loved how he was making her feel.  "Yes, Harry," she moaned again.

Her moans turned to cries of lust as she felt his mouth on one breast, then the other.  Harry was making her feel worshipped.  She revelled in it.  She didn't want him to stop.

Harry loved the feel of her legs wrapped around him.  He didn't mind the feel of her nails piercing his skin as she clung to him.  He drove deeper and deeper into her willing embrace.  He would kiss her on the mouth, then the neck, and finally her breasts.  He was completely in love with the woman beneath him.

They continued making love through the night, not caring about the lateness of the hour.  They didn't want to leave each other's arms, not even when they both reached their climaxes.  Harry loved hearing the pleasure in Astoria's voice as she cried his name.  She loved his own groans as he filled her with his seed.

Harry slid off her, but they continued holding each other as they drifted off to sleep.  Harry knew he found the woman to share his bed with.  She would never replace Ginny, but Astoria would fill the hole that was in his heart.

* * * * * *

Astoria stepped out of the fireplace and was greeted by her son and Albus.  Daphne stepped into the drawing room and smiled.  After Astoria greeted the boys, she turned to her sister.  "Thank you for watching them, Daphne."

Daphne smiled.  "It was a pleasure."  She waited until her charges ran out of the room before continuing, "And judging by the spring in your step, it looks like you had a pleasant night with Harry.  More than pleasant, I would say."

Astoria blushed.

* * * * * *

"How do you think they will react?" Harry asked Astoria as they waited for their kids at the train station.

"I think Albus and Scorpius will be surprised, while Lily will be pleased," she replied.

"I shudder to think what James's reaction will be.  Ron and George have influenced him too much for my liking."

Astoria squeezed his hand.  He looked down and smiled as the light reflected off the ring, her new engagement ring.  The reactions had been mixed: Hermione and Daphne had been the happiest to hear Harry had proposed to Astoria, while some of the Weasleys scowled.  Molly, Bill, Charlie and Percy were Harry's strongest supporters, while Ron, George and, to some extent, Arthur had wondered why Harry would want to share a bed with a Malfoy.

"I'm sure he will love having another brother," Astoria said.

"At least another one to prank," Harry smirked.

She smiled as they watched the Hogwarts Express pull up to the platform.  They joined the throng of parents, eager to give their children the good news.

The End

Comments

[mayorhaggar.livejournal.com]

Oh, those meddlesome older sisters! (Hermione might not technically be Harry's sister, but she totally counts and she fits the older sister mold to a tee.)

I found the bit with Pansy interesting. It makes me wonder whether or not she stayed friends with Draco after Hogwarts, and how he might have felt about all of this.

Really good story, thanks for sharing!

[abyss-valkyrie.livejournal.com]

OOHH!! I love this new friendship between Slytherins and Gryffindors.Hermione,lol,plotting and whatnot!Fun times!!!

I like how you included everyone's reactions to Harry and Astoria and how they worry about their kids. Not to mention that the sex was beautiful to boot! <3

[ladyofsd.livejournal.com]

So much fun matchmaking! Lol! A very delightful story, MA. And the fluffy happy ending is perfection.

[alisanne.livejournal.com]

Very sweet.
Hermione's lucky her plot worked out that well, though. Her meddling otherwise could have lost her Harry's respect and friendship. :/

[articcat621.livejournal.com]

I love how meddlesome Hermione and Daphne were!! Seems that their plans worked ;) a very lovely story, and I think that Astoria and Harry make a good fit... they'll be happy together, as will their children! Lovely job <3