Ghosts ✔️

Chapter 3

Harry had awoken due to an incessant tapping on his window. For once, he was grateful for the interruption. He already knew how that nightmare ended after having lived it once before. His confusion mounted however as he opened the window to let in not Ron's owl, but a great eagle owl he knew could have only belonged to one person.

He allowed the owl entrance, and it perched on his bedpost, awaiting an answer. Harry thought he and Malfoy were all squared away after last week when he testified. Malfoy had shown he knew what was right in the end when he threw Harry a wand. He had even stayed behind while his family fled, and fought alongside everyone.

Before that night, Harry would have called Draco Malfoy a selfish coward, but now? He had gotten a glimpse of the real Draco underneath. The Draco who maybe could have been present all along if only Harry had accepted his hand. But as Malfoy's letter said, maybe this had been for the best.

If an apology was the last thing Harry had expected from Malfoy, a box of sweets and Harry's favorite tea was as rare as a male being allowed to ride a unicorn. For the first time in awhile, Harry genuinely smiled, even if it was only a small one. A quiet hoot from the owl reminded him that he should respond.

"Malfoy,

I really can't pinpoint what's most surprising about hearing from you; the letter or the care package. Thank you for both. I suppose I should also thank you for the owl in general as I was coming upon a most unpleasant aspect of a nightmare. Cheers.

When I told you you were welcome after you thanked me at your trial, I meant it. I hope you and your mother are both well by the way, despite the circumstances.

Best,

Harry Potter"

Harry was biting his lip, wondering if he should add the next part he was thinking of writing. His reply was incredibly short, and Malfoy had written him a fair amount. With one last look at the box, he decided to go for it.

"Oh, and if you ever find that you can't sleep or if you just wanna talk to someone, you can write to me at any time. You don't have to of course, but the option is there. I know what it's like to deal with all of this alone. I also know what it's like to want to be "left" as you put it. I've felt this way for years. Some days it gets easier, others not so much.

No matter what, I don't regret saving you Malfoy. I can't say I've forgiven you for everything yet, but I don't hate you, and I don't think I ever really have. You're not who I thought you were, and that is a compliment.

I'm rambling, sorry. But while I'm saying sorry, I'd also like to apologize to you as well. For mostly everything. I won't lie to you, I've always enjoyed our banter, but what happened sixth year was completely unforgivable. I'm so sorry.

Thank you for your sincere letter, as well as my favorite tea. Perfect timing as I had just run out. I don't get out much anymore, so you saved me a trip. Regardless, it was nice to hear from you.

Write soon,

Scarhead "

Without a second glance, Harry sent the owl away, releasing a deep breath he hadn't even known he was holding.