Harry Potter

What We Pretend We Can't See

by gyzym

"Seven years after the war, Harry discovers that avoiding your problems only works for so long, especially when Draco Malfoy keeps appearing in his life."

130,000 words
21 chapters
8h 40m read time
Complete Explicit
Read on AO3

Plot Summary

Harry Potter has spent seven years since the war running from his problems, his fame, and his feelings. When he can no longer avoid returning to Britain, he finds that Draco Malfoy has changed—and so has his reaction to him.

Forced to confront his unhealthy coping mechanisms, Harry must decide what kind of life he actually wants to live.

Full Plot Summary (Contains Spoilers)

Harry's avoidance finally catches up with him. His encounters with Draco force him to examine his choices. As they tentatively build a friendship, it becomes clear that their feelings run deeper. The story culminates in Harry finally facing his issues and embracing happiness.

Why Fans Love This Fic

Gyzym's fic is praised for its honest portrayal of mental health struggles and the realistic development of Harry and Draco's relationship.

Main Characters

Harry Potter

A hero who never learned how to live normally

Draco Malfoy

A reformed man building a quiet life

Hermione Granger

Harry's friend who won't let him keep running

Ron Weasley

Supportive as always, if confused by Harry's choices

Relationships

Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter

Themes

Avoidance and growth Second chances Mental health Choosing happiness

Content Warnings

  • Depression
  • Unhealthy coping mechanisms
  • Past trauma
  • Sexual content

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "What We Pretend We Can't See" about?

Seven years after the war, Harry discovers that avoiding your problems only works for so long, especially when Draco Malfoy keeps appearing in his life.

How long is "What We Pretend We Can't See"?

"What We Pretend We Can't See" is 130,000 words across 21 chapters, with an estimated read time of 8h 40m.

Is "What We Pretend We Can't See" complete?

Yes, "What We Pretend We Can't See" is complete with all 21 chapters published.

Where can I read "What We Pretend We Can't See"?

You can read "What We Pretend We Can't See" by gyzym on Archive of Our Own (AO3). Download Fanfict Reader for iOS for the best mobile reading experience with offline access.

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