The young man did not realise that his fellow student inched back at his sharp tone, curling into himself. Severus, however, did nothing of the sort. Joining them on the beach, uncharacteristically dressed in light linen pants, a short dress-shirt, and bare feet, the Potion Master still towered over them. "Draco sent me a letter, apologising for his harsh words and asking for advice." When Harry started a reply, Severus raised his hand. "I told him that he should think very carefully about how he wanted to spend his life. Lucius made his choice. You made yours. However, it is Draco's decision if he wants to throw his lot in with either of you. In a decade or two, he might not have to live with his parents, but he will have to live with himself. So, he should determine where he wants to stand."