Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/13233990.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence, Underage
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      Harry_Potter_-_J._K._Rowling
  Relationship:
      Harry_Potter/Severus_Snape
  Character:
      Harry_Potter, Severus_Snape, Albus_Dumbledore, Minerva_McGonagall,
      Voldemort_(Harry_Potter), Poppy_Pomfrey, Ron_Weasley, Hermione_Granger
  Additional Tags:
      Post-Order_of_the_Phoenix_AU, Implied/Referenced_Abuse, Abuse, Hurt/
      Comfort, Other_Additional_Tags_to_Be_Added, Horcruxes, Fluff_and_Smut,
      Happy_Ending
  Stats:
      Published: 2018-01-01 Updated: 2018-02-09 Chapters: 29/? Words: 64645
****** Trust (In) Me ******
by Lilithtje
Summary
     At the beginning of his sixth year in Hogwarts, Harry Potter is
     determined to apologize to Snape for invading his pensieve and to ask
     for more Occlumency lessons. He doesn't expect to be received with
     open arms... but Snape's reaction is unexpectedly extreme.
Notes
     All characters belong to J.K. Rowling.
***** Chapter 1 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Harry would have known he has entered the dungeons even with his eyes closed.
Just a few steps down the stairs the temperature dropped rather quickly. Even
during the warm autumn days, the Hogwarts dungeons were icy cold and damp.
Pulling the robe closer around his body, Harry descended further into the
bowels of his beloved school. Every so often a torch would be lit on the wall,
casting creepy shadows all around.

There weren’t any portraits in this part of Hogwarts, which Harry found a bit
strange, to be honest. Perhaps even the painted people disliked the gloomy
atmosphere of being underground. Though if he recalled correctly, Slytherin
common room was indeed guarded by a portrait. He had seen it briefly when he
and Ron were let inside by Malfoy. As at the time they were polyjuiced as
Crabbe and Goyle and were nervous enough about being found out, Harry
understandably didn’t pay much attention to his surroundings.
 

Now he was nervous for a whole other reason. He was about to start his sixth
year in Hogwarts.. after spending a hellish summer with his relatives, who
would begrudge him even the right to mourn his dead godfather, Harry hoped for
a quiet and uneventful school year. He knew it wasn’t very likely to happen,
what with Voldemort out in the open at last, but hey, a boy can hope, right?

Entering a long corridor behind a potion classroom, Harry stopped in front of a
heavy wooden door. A small plaque, barely visible in the dim light of a torch
flickering nearby, hung just to the left.

Potions Master Professor Severus Snape it read.

Harry took a deep breath, pressing a palm against his chest in an attempt to
slow the frantic beating of his heart. He was going through with this, he told
himself. It was the right thing to do. He had spent many sleepless nights
drowning in guilt as he mourned Sirius.
If only he had mastered the occlumency last year, Sirius would have still been
alive. Sure, he had blamed Snape at the time that he was unable to teach him
properly. And perhaps their mutual animosity was one of the reasons Harry
couldn’t master the art of closing his mind. But Harry had the whole summer to
come to terms with the fact that he was indeed the only one truly responsible
for that failure. He hadwelcomed the dreams of that long corridor, he wanted to
find out where that door would lead to.. he could’ve just as well invited
Voldemort to take a stroll through his head.
 

But no more. Harry was determined to keep the snake-faced man out of his mind.
He couldn’t allow any more people get hurt because of his ignorance. And so he
was going to suck up his Gryffindor pride, apologize to Snape for invading his
pensieve last year and plead with the man to teach him Occlumency again. He
would grovel if he had to, even though he still hated Snape. Well, perhaps
hated wasn’t the right word. Harry reserved his hate solely for Voldemort.
Strong dislike was probably more accurate. Though after seeing young Snape
being bullied by James and Sirius, Harry could empathize with his professor on
a level he never would have thought possible. He felt genuinely bad about
watching the memory and that was also a big motivator for him wanting to
apologize to the sour potions master.
 

Glancing around the corridor for any stray Slytherins, Harry lifted his hand
and knocked on the door. When nothing happened, he knocked a bit harder. The
dungeons were eerily quiet and the gentle knocking sounded too loud to Harry’s
ears.
After a while, Harry huffed to himself, hoping he’ll find the courage to return
again tomorrow. He was about to turn away and leave when he spied another door,
at the far end of the dark corridor. Cautiously coming closer, he examined the
dark wood.
Hogwarts was full of secret passages and hidden rooms and Harry has learned
firsthand the need to be careful. Especially when it came to entering an
unknown room.
 
 
There weren’t any torches this far into the passage, only the rough stone walls
and the black door. Harry thought it was probably made of dark oak but it was
hard to tell. Just as he has leaned forward to try to peep through the keyhole,
the door was pulled open.
Harry startled, looking down at the pair of polished black shoes. He slowly
straightened himself, his eyes following along the black slacks, two rows of
tiny black jacket buttons and finally stopping at the scowling face of his
potions professor. Harry’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Potter.” Snape spat, glowering at his student. “What are you doing lurking
about in front of my private quarters? Why aren’t you in your dormitory? Twenty
points from Gryffindor for being out after curfew, and that on the first night
of the term. Tss tss Potter, that doesn’t bode well for the House Cup, now does
it?” Snape sneered, maliciousness practically dripping from his eyes.

“Umm.. I knocked on your office door but you weren’t there.” Gulping, Harry
added hastily. “Sir.”

“Obviously.” Arms folded across his chest, Snape looked down at Harry. “And?
Speak up, boy!”

Harry felt a wave of anger rise from his chest. How he hated being called boy
in that manner. Uncle Vernon always did that, slapping him around and shouting.
Not once did he use his first name, he was always boy or Potter.

Grinding his teeth, Harry answered. “I came to apologize for looking through
your pensieve last year, sir. And to ask if you would teach me occlumency
again. I will..”
 

Before Harry could finish, he found himself nose to nose to a very irate
potions professor. Snape grabbed him by the lapels of his school robe, pulling
Harry up to his face. Due to their height difference, the messy haired teen was
barely standing on the tips of his toes. Snape was clearly seething, shaking
Harry back and forth as if he was nothing more than a ragdoll.

“You have the audacity to come here, to my private quarters, talk about your
despicable actions and have me believe you want to apologize? How arrogant you
are, Potter! Just like your father, strutting about and expecting everything
will fall into your lap! Expecting me to waste my valuable time on you just
because the rest of the wizarding world caters to your every whim! You disgust
me.”

“That’s not true!” Harry shouted. “I really am sorry about the pensieve, I
shouldn’t have looked! It was just.. I wanted to know what was going on but
nobody would tell me anything! I thought professor Dumbledore asked you not to
tell me stuff and I wanted to know why I kept dreaming about that corridor. I
thought.. I didn’t know I would see your personal memories. I’m sorry!”

Harry wanted to continue but a truly violent shake from the potions master had
him accidentally biting his tongue. The coppery taste of blood invaded Harry’s
mouth.

“Did it ever occur to you that perhaps you weren’t meant to know? That perhaps
certain information was withheld for your own safety? And that of others?”
Snape’s voice was quiet but all the more scary. “Are you truly so conceited to
believe the world revolves around you? You are nothing special, Potter! Nothing
but a mediocre student and a mediocre wizard! If not for the misfortunate night
when the Dark Lord chose to act on a half-heard prophecy, nobody would be even
remotely interested in you!”
 

With Snape’s face so close to his, Harry craned his neck backwards to avoid the
spittle flying from the professor's mouth. He wanted to stay angry, to shout at
Snape for being unfair, but he knew the potions master was right. He was not
special. Sometimes he wondered if he should just let Voldemort kill him and be
done with it. But then he would think of his friends and the Weasley’s who were
like his family. And Harry knew he would fight to the last breath just to keep
them safe. Sirius had died because of him but he would do anything he could to
save everybody else.

“I know.” He said to Snape, his head hanging down in defeat.
He didn’t see the narrowing of the potions master’s dark eyes or the curling of
his lip that bared the crooked teeth. He was wholly unprepared for the hard
shove that propelled him out of the door, smacking hard into the stone wall of
the dungeons corridor.

“Get. Out.” Hissed Snape furiously. “And don’t come back!” The door closed
behind Snape with a loud bang at the same time Harry’s back hit the wall.
Literally flying backwards, Harry couldn’t in any way cushion his fall, feet
slipping on the cold stone floor. His head collided with the structured bricks
with a sickening crunch, blood splattering the wall. Harry registered a sharp
pain in the back of his head and then his world went dark.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     My first take on Snarry. It will probably be quite a slow build, I'll
     see how the writing goes :)
     I'm not a native english speaker so I apologize for any mistakes.
***** Chapter 2 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus Snape was absolutely furious. The sheer audacity of that boy! That
insolent whelp thought himself so above others that he had no boundaries.
‘How dare he come here and ask for favours.’ Severus thought. Not even a day
into the new term and already Severus was ready to flay the boy alive.
 
He walked to the liquor cabinet and poured himself a generous glass of scotch.
Sinking into his favourite armchair, Severus picked up the potions journal he
was about to read before his wards registered an intruder outside his quarters.
Now he finally had the time to peruse the magazine, though his mind was still
occupied by the unexpected encounter with Potter. ‘Apologize indeed. He can
practise his acting skills on the gullible Gryffindors, they may believe him.’
Severus scoffed to himself.
 
The burning sensation of scotch running down his throat finally helped him
relax long enough to turn his attention towards the potions journal. The
article about poisons that could be used to cure certain conditions was
especially interesting and before long Severus was deeply immersed in reading.
 
He didn’t notice the flames of his fireplace turning green and startled when he
suddenly heard voices.
 
“Albus, ask him now. Perhaps he is still there?”
“I was about to, Minerva. We will find him, don’t worry yourself.”
Severus laid down his magazine and watched the headmaster’s head appear amongst
the flames. “Ah, Severus! Good evening, my boy!”
Severus sneered. “Do you need something, Albus?” He had seen the headmaster at
dinner just a few hours ago. What could be so important that couldn’t wait
until morning?
 
“Yes, Severus.” Even through the flames, Severus could see the twinkle in the
old man’s eyes. “Minerva came to me after checking on her Gryffindors. It seems
we are missing Harry Potter.”
 
Of course, of course it would be about Potter! Not a day went by that Potter
would be mentioned in some way. Even during the summer holidays, Potter was all
Albus would talk about. Not even the Dark Lord got so much attention!
On some level, Severus realized he was being unfair but he despised everything
that Potter represented. The famous, privileged student, fawned over by the
general public, always getting away with trouble, always in the spotlights..
 
“Potter has always thought himself above the rules. He is probably strolling
around the castle, getting into mischief. How is that different from any other
time?” Severus raised his eyebrow with disdain.
“Severus!” Minerva McGonagall squeezed herself next to Albus. “Ronald Weasley
has informed me that Harry was planning on visiting you in some personal
matter. Weasley was worried about his friend.” She looked at Severus
expectantly. “Well?”
“Well, what?”
“Don’t play dumb with me, young man!” Said Minerva strictly. “Has Harry visited
you tonight?”
Severus let out a deep sigh. “Yes, he was here. Blabbered about some nonsense
until I sent him on his way. Where he went after that, I cannot say.” Sipping
his scotch in a languid manner, Severus gave the impression of being bored with
the conversation.
 
“We are coming through.” Was the last thing he heard before the floo activated.
The headmaster and his deputy stepped out of the fireplace, brushing away the
soots.
“We should probably retrace his steps from here. Perhaps he got lost in the
dungeons?” Minerva looked at the two men impatiently.
Severus rolled his eyes and answered with a sneer. “It would serve him right.
Bothering me in my private quarters.”
 
The deputy headmistress pursed her lips and turned around, intent on getting
out of the potions master’s rooms and going looking for her wayward student.
Albus leaned closer to Severus, his eyes curious. “What did Harry want to talk
about with you?”
Severus regarded him with an unreadable expression. “He would have me believe
he wanted to apologize for the pensieve incident. As if I were one of those
simpering fools who hang on to his every word!”
“And that’s all he wanted to talk about?”
Severus didn’t like the look in Albus’s eyes. “He also had the audacity to ask
for more occlumency lessons! After he completely neglected them the last time!
He is a lazy, barely average student and I will not waste my time trying to
teach him an art he clearly has no real interest in!” Severus was fuming again
when he recalled how Potter tried to persuade him with an obvious theatrical
gesture. Hanging his head in repentance, Severus scoffed. As if Potter was even
capable of such an act.
“Let me get this clear.” Albus pierced him with a searching look. “Harry came
here to apologize to you and to try to reestablish his lessons. And you have
reacted negatively?”
“Of course I have reacted negatively!” Severus exploded. “I did the only thing
I could under such circumstances.” He sniffed, trying to regain his composure.
“I promptly threw him out.”
The headmaster shook his head sadly. “My dear boy, why can’t you see..”
 
He was interrupted by a shrill scream. “Albus!! Oh, Merlin.”
The headmaster hurried to the open doorway where his deputy disappeared. “What
is it, Minerva?” He reached the door just in time to catch her as she swayed on
her feet.
“Harry.” She croaked, tears filling her eyes.
Albus looked past her into the dark corridor. There on the ground lay Harry
Potter. His face was ghostly white and his eyes closed.
Albus let go of Minerva and quickly kneeled down next to the boy. He pressed
two fingers against Harry’s throat, trying to find the pulse. He noticed how
cold his skin was as if he’d been lying here for a long time. Pulling out his
wand, Albus cast a simple diagnostic charm, letting out a relieved sigh when he
indeed detected a faint heartbeat.
He conjured a few balls of light, making them float above his head.
Minerva let out a loud gasp as she came closer. Now that the corridor was no
longer hidden in darkness, they could see that Harry was lying in a large pool
of blood.
 
It was at this point that Severus has finally come to investigate what had the
normally composed woman shrieking like a banshee. The sight in front of him had
him frozen in shock.
“He has lost a lot of blood. I think his head is severely injured.” Albus
turned to Minerva. “Minerva, please get Poppy here immediately. We can’t move
him until Poppy says it’s safe.”
The deputy headmistress jumped into action at once, that was after all what
Gryffindors were famous for. Pushing the shock frozen potions master out of the
way, she hurried to the floo.
 
Albus turned back to the injured boy. Not wanting to worsen his condition,
Albus couldn’t do anything but wait. Although he was quite proficient in simple
healing charms, he would not dare risk Harry’s life by accidentally hurting him
even more. The two minutes it took for Poppy to arrive had felt like an
eternity. Albus had seldom felt so helpless in his life.
“Out of the way, let me through!” Poppy called already from the door.
Albus stepped aside and lifted the floating orbs a little, making sure the
mediwitch had enough light. He watched as Poppy cast the charms. First the
diagnostic, though more complex than what Albus himself had used. Then a quick
sequence of first help charms he recognized and some he didn’t. Finally, she
opened her emergency bag that was filled with potions. She moved her wand in a
clockwise movement as she spelt the required potions in Harry’s stomach.
“We can move him now. I need to get him to hospital wing before I can put him
in a healing coma.” Poppy looked up at Albus. “He has a severe concussion and
needs to be monitored constantly.”
“I see.” Was all Albus said as he helped Poppy levitate Harry and place him
gently on the conjured stretcher.
 
“I assume he needs to be levitated all the way to the hospital wing?” He
finally asked.
“Yes.” Nodded Poppy, making sure her patient was properly strapped to the
stretcher. “Floo is out of the question.”
“I will help you.” Minerva stepped closer with a determined look on her face.
“I want to stay with him for a while if that’s all right.”
Poppy looked at the headmaster who inclined his head. “Yes, you go. I will stop
by later.”
The mediwitch noticed he was looking at the potions master with a solemn
expression. She didn’t even realize Snape was here all this time. He was being
unusually quiet and just stood in the doorway rigidly.
“Very well.” She said at last. “Let us go.”
With Minerva’s help, they carefully levitated Harry through the silent halls,
few of Albus’s light orbs floating along with them.
They walked in silence, both thinking about the boy who got hurt within the
walls of this castle much too often. Both trying to come up with an explanation
of why he got hurt just outside of Severus’s personal quarters.
Poppy recalled seeing some blood on the wall opposite of the potions master’s
door. And that didn’t bode well for the snarky professor. No that didn’t bode
well at all.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Coming up next: Severus will experience a real eye-opener.
***** Chapter 3 *****
 
When the two women and their precious cargo disappeared around the corner,
Albus turned his attention to the stained floor.
Precise movements of his wand made sure all the blood was cleaned up, not a
drop left behind. Blood could be used in many nefarious potions and rituals and
the blood of The Boy Who Lived was beyond priceless. Albus also examined the
stone wall meticulously, thoughtfully, before vanishing the red liquid stain.
 
Only then did he turn to the muted potions master who watched his actions in
stiff silence. “Come, Severus. We need to talk.”
Gesturing wearily with one hand, Albus ushered him back inside. Once they were
seated on a dark brown sofa in front of the fireplace, the headmaster summoned
a pensieve he knew Severus had stored in his rooms. “I believe it would be best
if I were to view the events of this evening as they truly happened, don’t
you?”
 
Albus watched Severus withdraw his wand rigidly and place it against his
temple. A thin silvery strand appeared on the tip of the wand and Severus
gingerly deposited the memory inside the pensieve. He looked up at Albus once
he was done, his eyes a storm of emotions.
“I want you to watch it with me.” Albus said. When Severus made a protesting
sound, Albus lifted a hand to shush him. “I must insist.”
Not waiting for an answer, the headmaster took Severus’s hand and together they
touched the silvery liquid, essentially diving in the potions master’s memory.
 
Severus watched himself pick up the potions journal, getting ready to sit down
when the wards chimed, announcing a visitor outside his quarters. He felt Albus
take him by the elbow and steer him closer to the door so they could watch his
memory self closely.
The memory Severus opened the door and they saw Harry Potter, almost bent in
half, blinking in surprise as he finally looked up at his professor.
“Potter.” Severus cringed when he heard himself speak. Did he really sound so…
spiteful? He watched Potter fidget as he spoke, pulling on the hem of his
school robe. His face looked so innocent, how did Severus not noticed that
before? James Potter has never possessed this kind of innocence, not even as an
eleven-year-old.
Harry’s green eyes, magnified behind the hideous spectacles, seemed too big for
his face.
Severus glanced at Albus. The headmaster was observing the scene before him
with rapt attention.
 
“Speak up, boy!” The memory Severus towered over his smaller student in a
distinctly menacing way. The memory Potter went rigid, fire flashing in those
emerald eyes.
This, Severus recognized all too well, Potter was angry. Why now, though?
Fascinated he observed as the boy composed himself and started talking through
gritted teeth.
 
With a growing sense of horror, Severus viewed the next scene. His memory self
grabbed Potter by his robe and shook him violently. Potter was barely standing
on his toes, the scuffed trainers leaving the ground every so often. His arms
hung limply against his body and Severus was suddenly reminded of another
incident he’d witnessed as a child.
His brute of a father, coming home drunk and angry, manhandling Severus’s
mother until she was bruised and broken. Yet she never fought back, never
lifted a hand (or a wand) to protect herself. She knew the abuse would only get
worse if she did.
 
But for Potter to react the same way, that was unprecedented. How could this
be? Alarm bells were ringing in the back of Severus’s head however for the
moment he pushed those thoughts aside as he watched himself shake the green-
eyed teen furiously yet again.
The boy shouted at him, words spilling out of his mouth rapidly yet his posture
remained the same. The memory Severus was spitting pure bile now, lashing out
at the boy with his statements.
When Potter hung his head, chin almost touching his chest, Severus stepped
closer and crouched down a bit. He could see Potter’s eyes like this, he could
see what his memory self wasn’t able to.
Potter’s eyes were glazed over, just waiting to spill the tears that had
gathered there. The corners of his mouth were turned down in a frown as he
sighed quietly. His whole body screamed failure and defeat when he whispered.
“I know.”
 
And then Severus looked up and suddenly he didn’t see his memory self anymore.
He was staring in the face of his father, the features screwed up in a vicious
sneer, hate blazing in those onyx eyes. Severus felt as if the ground fell from
under his feet.
The one thing he had always promised himself, that he swore he would never let
happen, no matter how many dark lords he was forced to serve, no matter how
messed up his life would become.
The one thing he always saw as his own, tiny, redeeming quality. That he would
never allow himself to turn into the monster his father had been. That no
matter how many atrocities he was forced to commit under the Dark Lord’s reign,
he would never let himself become an abuser.
 
Severus startled when his memory self shoved Potter out of the door. The sheer
force of the push had the teen’s feet leaving the ground as he was propelled
backwards. The door slammed closed, robbing him of the sight of the falling
Potter, yet Severus could hear a blunt thud.
He was standing there, staring at the polished wood with unseeing eyes. He was
barely aware of Albus tugging him along and exiting the pensieve.
As soon as there was a couch under him, he jumped to his feet and raced to the
bathroom, reaching the loo just in time as he violently threw up. Leaning on
the sink heavily, Severus picked himself up with great difficulty. He rinsed
his mouth and downed half a vial of anti-nausea potion, all the while staring
at his mirror reflection.
The man in the mirror was sickly pale, his features harsh and screwed up in a
painful grimace. Splashing some water on his face, Severus tried to compose
himself. He was finished, his life over and he had no one else to blame but
himself. He has harmed a student, caused him a severe injury. He was just as
bad as his father..
Throwing a last self-loathing look at his reflection, Severus exited the
bathroom.
 
“Feeling better?” Albus asked.
The potions master stood in front of him with slumped shoulders, reminding
Albus of the time Severus came to him pleading to save Lily Potter’s life.
“Call the aurors, Albus. And you should find someone to take over my classes
permanently, I don’t expect ever getting out of Azkaban after this.” Severus
handed Albus his wand.
 
The headmaster waved him away. “I am not calling the aurors just yet, Severus.
We will wait until I can talk to Harry, hear his side of the story.” Albus
regarded him with sad eyes, the ever-present twinkle obviously missing.
“What side of the story?” Severus stared at him in disbelief. “You saw what
happened, I manhandled the boy! I nearly killed him!” He sank down in the
nearest chair when his knees gave out. “I nearly killed Lily’s son.” He
whispered brokenly.
 
“I’m not saying you aren’t guilty, Severus. What you did will have
repercussions. You will be placed on probation and I will draw up a set of
rules you will have to rigorously follow. But until I spoke to Harry and find
out what he wants, I will not report this incident to the Ministry. For now, it
is still a matter of Hogwarts and its internal policy.” Said Albus sternly.
“You may as well call them now. There is no way Potter will agree with letting
me get away with attacking him. This is his ultimate chance for revenge, he
would be a fool to waste it.” Severus bowed his head, eyes closing in defeat.
He was exhausted, emotionally and physically wrung out. Self-loathing was not
an unknown emotion to the black haired potions master but realizing he had
turned into his father was the final blow. He couldn’t pretend even to himself
that Potter was at fault. He clashed with the boy often enough to be able to
control himself. He was the adult, for Merlin’s sake! What Severus had done was
unforgivable. Being the ultimate Slytherin, the thought of self-preservation
was never far from his mind. However, in this case, Severus would plead guilty
at all times.
 
A gentle hand touched the top of his head. “I have told you many times Harry
may surprise you if you only gave him a chance. He has the kindest and most
forgiving character, he is fiercely loyal and beyond selfless.”
Severus clenched his fists, head shaking angrily from side to side. “I don’t
deserve forgiveness!” He exclaimed. “I have sworn to protect Potter, from the
Dark Lord, from the Death Eaters, from any harm! Clearly, he also needs to be
protected from me!”
 
Sighing wearily, Albus stepped to the fireplace. “Be that as it may, the fact
remains I need you to remain a spy for the Light Side, Severus. Harry needs you
to remain a spy. If you wish to repent your sins, this is the best way to
start. If you’re locked up in Azkaban, Voldemort will find a way to kill you.
On that note, you should report to him soon, before he hears from others what
has transpired here today.”
Gone was the gentle headmaster. In the moments like these Severus understood
why Albus Dumbledore was the feared leader of the Light. His piercing eyes were
made of blue steel, making an impression of seeing straight through one’s soul.
His voice strong and confident, leaving no doubts the headmaster was a man of a
great power and was not afraid to use it.
 
Severus stood up, his expression closed off. “I will leave immediately.” He
summoned the white death eater mask and donned his long black cloak. ‘Perhaps
the Dark Lord will be merciful and Avada Kedavra me quickly.’ He didn’t say
aloud.
“Severus.” The headmaster seemed to have guessed what he was thinking. “Be
safe. Convince him you slipped up but still have my trust. We will talk more
when you return.”
Severus inclined his head but didn’t respond. He waited for Albus to floo to
the hospital wing and then briskly walked to the door.
Closing his eyes, he made sure all his emotions were securely tucked away
behind the occlumency shields. He opened the door and stumbled suddenly as a
vision of Harry Potter, deathly pale and lying in a pool of blood, hit him like
a stampeding hippogriff.
“Monster.” He whispered. “I’m a monster.”
 
 
 
***** Chapter 4 *****
 
Albus has flooed straight to Poppy Pomfrey’s quarters and headed to the door
which connected her office to the hospital wing. Another door led to the
mediwitch’s personal rooms, she was never far away from her patients.
The hospital wing, seeing as this was the first night of a new school year, was
empty but for one patient.
Harry Potter lay in his ‘regular’ bed, the one he often occupied while in here.
Poppy was bustling around him, setting up monitoring charms and alarms. Minerva
sat on a visitor’s chair on the far end of Harry’s bed, dabbing her eyes with a
small tartan handkerchief from time to time.
 
“How is he, Poppy?” Asked Albus as he came closer.
The mediwitch looked up and lowered her wand. “He is stable for now. I put him
in magically induced healing coma that helps keep the swelling of his brain to
a minimum. I am hoping this will prevent further brain damage. At this point,
it is too soon to tell if or how much damage has already occurred.” She
explained, her tone strictly professional and emotionless.
 
Albus nodded and silently prayed to all the deities out there that Harry would
recover without any negative effects. He cared for the messy haired teen and
had they lived in a different kind of world, he would have happily adopted him
as his grandson. However, a war was coming quickly and Albus was nothing if not
a master tactician. He had to set his personal feelings aside and look at the
big picture. Sometimes, sacrifices had to be made for the greater good.
“How long until you can tell for sure?” He asked.
“I set the healing coma for forty-eight hours. That should be enough time for
the swelling to go down. Beyond that, we’ll just have to wait and see. The
sooner he wakes up after that the better his chances of full recovery.” Replied
Poppy. “Luckily, his skull was not fractured or he might’ve not survived. He is
also at risk of developing pneumonia after lying on that freezing stone floor
for so long, though the cold probably saved his life as it slowed down the
bleeding. He’ll need blood replenishing potions around the clock.”
Poppy glanced at Minerva, a silent communication passing between them. Finally,
she turned back to Albus. “Is Severus coming? I have a list of potions that
must be brewed as soon as possible.”
 
The headmaster approached the occupied hospital bed, his light blue robes
flowing around him like a river, rippling with each movement. “Severus is
unavailable at the moment. I’ll make sure he’ll get the list and the potions
are ready tomorrow.” He answered, lifting his hand to gently pet Harry’s head.
Minerva frowned. “Albus, what happened tonight? Did Severus… is he responsible
for Mr Potter’s injury?”
“It is too soon to reach a conclusion on this matter. I will speak to Harry
when he wakes up and then we’ll know more.” The headmaster spoke softly as if
not to disturb the sleeping boy.
“Do you think someone else might be involved? Some student? What did Severus
tell you?” Asked Minerva with a suspicious look on her face. Something wasn’t
right, she felt. Well, apart from the fact that one of her favourite students
was lying in hospital unconscious. She knew Albus had a tendency of hushing
things up when it suited his plans. Though she couldn’t fathom why he’d want to
stall an investigation of this unfortunate incident.
 
Albus turned around and looked at her with sorrowful eyes. “At this point, I
cannot say anything else. Severus had an urgent matter to attend to but as soon
as he returns I will speak to him. I suggest we all retire for the night, the
classes start early after all. I will address the students in the morning and
inform them Harry has had an accident. Minerva, perhaps you should speak to Ms
Granger and Mr Weasley before they come down to breakfast, they may want to
visit Harry before their classes.”
Moving towards the exit, he paused to pat Minerva’s arm consolingly and then
approached the mediwitch. “Let me know immediately if there is any change in
Harry’s condition, please.”
When Poppy nodded her head in confirmation, Albus wished the women good night
and left.
 
“I don’t like this.” Said Minerva. “He’s definitely keeping something from us.”
“I know.” The mediwitch checked on Harry one more time and then led Minerva to
her office. “Did you notice how strangely had Severus reacted? He just stood
there, like a statue. Not a word left his mouth and he usually comments on
everything.”
“It was a rather shocking sight.” Replied Minerva. “I almost fainted when I saw
that poor boy lying there. So much blood everywhere…” She shuddered and wiped
her eyes.
“That’s true.” Conceded Poppy. “Though you would think Severus is used to such
horrors, what with his ‘other’ occupation.” She said, hinting at the potions
master’s spying activities.
“I don’t think one gets used to something like that. Not unless one has at
least some conscience left.” The deputy headmistress shook her head sadly and
scooped up a handful of floo powder. “Good night, Poppy. I will come check on
Harry tomorrow. Poor boy, trouble just seems to follow him everywhere, doesn’t
it?”
“Good night, Minnie. I’ll let you know if something happens.” Poppy waved her
friend away and with a troubled mind retired as well.
 
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
The_Riddle_Manor,_Little_Hangleton
 
 
Severus has apparated as soon as he left the Hogwarts wards. Landing on the
edge of the Riddle property, he pressed his wand against the dark mark on his
forearm, hissing at the unpleasant feeling.
He felt the Dark Lord’s wards accept him and promptly started walking towards
the house. The Dark Lord would know by now that Severus has arrived and would
be expecting him. For his own safety, Severus knew he shouldn’t keep him
waiting too long.
 
“Severus.” Voldemort was sitting in a comfortable armchair in front of a large
fireplace. “What an unexpected surprise.”
The dark-haired potions master fell to his knees instantly, head bowed down to
show his subordination. “My Lord.”
He heard a rustling of cloth and realized the Dark Lord stood from his chair
and was now coming closer. Severus didn’t move, concentrating hard to keep his
occlumency shields intact, he waited for his ‘master’ to speak.
 
“What happened?” The Dark Lord’s voice was soft and high-pitched yet deeply
threatening.
“There’s been an incident, my Lord.” Severus replied, already bracing himself
for a dose of cruciatus he was sure to receive. “Harry Potter has been
injured.”
Strong fingers grabbed his hair and harshly yanked his head backwards. Severus
was staring in the blood red eyes and knew what was coming even before he heard
a soft whisper.
“Legilimens.”
 
He felt the Dark Lord’s probing at his mind shields, carefully lowering one to
let the other man watch an edited version of last night’s events. He watched
his argument with Potter, the memory of mentioning occlumency deliberately
replaced with remedial potions. The conversation with Albus, narrowed down to
the warning of repercussions and Severus being put on probation. The sight of
Potter, lying in a pool of his own blood.
 
Severus cried out when Voldemort exited his mind none too gently, only to be
hit with a cruciatus curse straight away.
“You fool!” Hissed Voldemort, lifting the curse for a few seconds and then
casting it again at regular intervals, filling the pauses with talking. “Your
position at Hogwarts is paramount to our success! I need to know the old man’s
plans and I need an insider when the time comes for me to take Hogwarts! You
will return to the school and renew your position of a trusted member of staff
or your life is forfeit.”
 
The snake-faced man stood above Severus, who, at this point, was lying on the
polished wooden floor. His whole body was shaking with the aftershocks of the
many crucios he had to endure.
Pushing himself up a little bit, the potions master crawled forward to kiss the
hem of the Dark Lord’s robe. “It will be as you wish, my Lord. I will not fail
you again.” He wheezed with difficulty.
Voldemort twirled the wand in his hand. “See that you don’t! And Severus?” The
Dark Lord stepped back and slowly walked towards the door, pausing and adding,
almost as an afterthought.
“Harry Potter is mine, his lifeand his death belong to me and me only! You’ll
do best to remember that!”
 
Severus’s answer, Yes, my Lord, was lost in his screams as a cold voice
resonated through the room.
 
“Crucio!”
 
 
 
***** Chapter 5 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
It was well past 2 a.m. when Severus finally returned to Hogwarts. His whole
body was aching, the multiple cruciatus curses essentially frying his nerves,
left him feeling as if he’d been hit by a lightning several times.
He dragged himself back to his chambers, thankful for the fact that the
students were asleep and didn’t witness his weakened state. He knew he had to
go see Albus before he could fall to his bed and try to catch at least a few
hours of sleep. But first, he was in dire need of an anti-cruciatus potion, one
of his own inventions made necessary by the Dark Lord’s favourite past time.
Once he drank the potion and got rid of the black cloak, Severus moved to the
fireplace. His hands still shook when he reached for the floo powder.
 
“Severus!” The headmaster, already dressed in a nightshirt with a purple
dressing gown thrown over it, was waiting for him in his office. “How did it
go? Are you hurt?”
The potions master exited the fireplace carefully, mindful of his still aching
limbs. “The Dark Lord was not pleased with me.” Replied Severus. “He instructed
me to find my way back to your good graces.”
Albus nodded, pleased with the outcome. “And your punishment?” He inquired,
though he already suspected the answer. Severus has often returned from
Voldemort’s summons in pain.
“The usual.” Responded the black haired man. “I deserved much worse.”
He stiffly sat down next to the headmaster’s desk, making sure his back didn’t
touch the chair.
 
Albus regarded him with a thoughtful expression. “Is there a valid reason why
you treated Harry in such a harsh manner?” He finally asked.
Staring at the far wall with a blank expression on his face, Severus gently
shook his head. When he next spoke, he sounded detached, his emotions hidden
away. “Lily’s friendship was one of my most treasured, cherished possessions
all throughout my childhood. She was my refuge from an abusing father, from a
mother I started to resent because she had the means to protect us yet she let
the abuse continue. Lily has kept me sane, only when I lost her had I realized
how much that was true. Then there was Potter and the rest of the Marauders.
They could get away with anything, pranks, bullying, virtually with murder and
you just let them!”
Albus tried to interrupt him but Severus pressed on.
“When Lucius Malfoy approached me with an invitation from the Dark Lord, I
didn’t think twice before accepting it. He seemed to offer everything I longed
for, respect for my abilities, power, fame, acceptance…” Severus rigidly turned
to face the headmaster. “Then I overheard the prophecy and made the biggest
mistake of my life. I painted a target on Lily’s head. It didn’t matter the
Dark Lord only wanted her child, I knew Lily would never relinquish her baby
without a fight. I endeavoured to save her in any way I could. I grovelled at
the Dark Lord’s feet, begging him to spare Lily’s life for me. I came to you,
risking to be shipped straight to Azkaban if only Lily would be safe. It was
all in vain.”
The potions master’s eyes flashed with a sudden emotion. “Lily was dead yet the
child survived. Without the child there would be no prophecy and my friend
would be alive. Still, the child was also part Lily’s, the smallest part of her
that lived on and I have vowed to protect it. I have kept my word even though
the boy was a Potter through and through. A miniature of my childhood tormentor
was once again running through the halls of Hogwarts, getting away with trouble
just like his father. Can you blame me for being bitter?”
 
“Harry is not James, Severus.” Albus peered at the younger man from above his
half-moon spectacles. “In fact, you and Harry are more alike than you think.”
Severus scoffed, his face set in a deep scowl. “I am nothing like Potter!” He
bit out. “Either of them.” He added in a softer tone.
The headmaster just shook his head sadly at the stubborn man in front of him.
“You’ve realized Harry is different, haven’t you? When we watched your memory.”
Severus flinched as if slapped. He could feel a dark emotion leaking from under
his occlumency shields, biting into his heart as a ravenous creature and
leaving only bleeding holes behind.
“I have realized I am different.” He replied in a pained voice. “I have become
someone I hated my whole life.” Severus looked down at his clenched fists, the
knuckles white and nails digging into his palms.
“You have lost control.” Said Albus. “That doesn’t make you the same man your
father had been.” He continued, knowing all too well what Severus had implied.
“That is of little consolation, Headmaster.”
 
Albus stood from his chair and walked around the desk, stopping in front of his
resident potions master. “Then consider this, Severus. I will give you ample
opportunity to right your wrongs. Seize this chance and prove to me and most
importantly to yourself that you are in fact a better man.”
Severus inclined his head and looked up. “What can be done to remedy my
atrocious behaviour? As I already told you, Albus, Potter will not stand idly
by and let me walk away unpunished.”
“Let me deal with Harry.” Albus replied. “First we must set up the rules of
your probation.”
He walked to a low bookcase tucked under the window and pulled out a large
tome. “There’s an old spell I would like to cast on you. It is partly a
monitoring spell, letting me know your location within this castle at all
times. The second part is a guarding spell, alerting you whenever you are in
danger of losing control.”
“Alerting, how?” Asked Severus haltingly.
The headmaster considered glossing over the spell’s effects but he knew Severus
would not be satisfied with a vague answer. “It will cause you a considerable
amount of pain, essentially rendering you useless.”
“I see.” Severus contemplated the pro’s and con’s of such a spell but in the
end understood he didn’t really have much of a choice anyway. Still, he needed
to know more. “You indicated the spell will monitor my movements within
Hogwarts. Does that mean it will not be active outside of the castle?”
“That is correct.” Albus browsed through the ancient tome, looking for the
right page. “Ah, here it is. This particular spell is tied both to a person and
to a place. That means as soon as you leave the Hogwarts wards, the spell will
virtually disappear. When you return, it will activate again.”
Severus nodded but frowned. “What about detection? Will the Dark Lord be able
to recognize I am under the influence of this spell?”
“No. As I said, it will only reappear once you enter the castle’s wards again.”
Albus lifted his wand with an asking expression.
“Very well.” Sighed the younger man.
 
The headmaster stood with the tome in one hand, his wand firmly grasped in the
other one. He moved it in precise movements as illustrated in the book and cast
the spell. “Vigilate custodi.”
A bright yellow light burst out of his wand and engulfed the potions master.
Severus felt a burning sensation all over his body. Not painful per se, just
mildly irritating. As suddenly as it has emerged, the light dissipated into a
fine yellow mist that covered Severus from head to toe. A moment later it was
gone.
“There, that’s taken care of.” Albus placed the book back on the bookshelf and
returned to his chair. “Now for my other conditions. First of all, I want you
to apologize to Harry and to accept his apology he had so graciously offered
you.”
Severus sneered slightly but inclined his head in agreement.
“Good.” The headmaster continued. “Next I want you to resume Harry’s occlumency
lessons.”
“Are you insane?” The dark-haired man jumped out of the chair, his aching limbs
protesting the sudden movement. “The boy is in hospital because of me! He will
never come near me again! For his own safety and my sanity, I beg of you,
Albus, don’t ask this of me!”
 
Albus Dumbledore was generally a kind man. He believed in second chances and
the greater good. He believed all people had some redeemable qualities if only
were they given an opportunity to prove themselves. He was, however, also a
stern man who followed through on his goals, willing to sacrifice an individual
if it meant gaining an upper hand in the bigger picture. Therefore, he firmly
answered. “I’m afraid these conditions are non-negotiable, Severus. You will
resume the lessons and you will treat Harry with the utmost respect he
deserves. If your teaching methods don’t engage the boy to your liking, change
them! Harry needs to learn occlumency and you need to learn how to get along
with him. The guarding spell will prevent you from causing him any more harm.
However, adjusting your behaviour must be a conscious effort on your part.”
 
Severus was pacing around the room, his fists clenched again and his expression
thunderous. How could he agree to this? Being forced to spend hours alone with
Potter was a disaster waiting to happen! Even if he couldn’t hurt the boy
physically, he could still rip his mind to pieces. Not that at the moment he
consciously wanted to, but Potter has always gotten under his skin and brought
out the worse responses from him.
 
He was suddenly reminded of Potter’s eyes, shining with tears as he hung his
head and mumbled his agreement to Severus’s accusations. That was the first
time Severus had really seen Harry. Not a miniature James Potter, not an
arrogant Golden Boy of Gryffindor, not a Boy Who Lived. Just Harry. With big
green eyes so like Lily’s yet still so different. A boy whose whole posture
screamed ‘I’m a victim, please don’t hurt me!’
Severus stopped pacing and closed his eyes. He needed to reevaluate all his
preconceived notions about the boy. Clearly, not everything was as black and
white as he had thought.
At last, he gazed at the headmaster. “Very well. As soon as the boy has
recovered I will resume his lessons.”
“Splendid!” Albus clapped his hands as an exuberant five-year-old. Everything
was working out just fine, he was sure Harry will not pose a problem. “Get some
sleep, Severus. Oh, and Poppy needs these potions as soon as possible. If you
would be so kind and brew them first thing in the morning, I would be most
grateful.”
With these words and a list of potions, the headmaster waved Severus away. When
Albus disappeared into his private chambers, Severus scanned the provided list
and sighed. So much for catching a few hours of sleep, he would need to get
started on some of these right away if they should be ready in time.
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Next chapter: Harry is waking up!
***** Chapter 6 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
Harry was floating. He was lying on a white fluffy cloud which was so soft
Harry barely felt it under his body. A gentle breeze kept rocking his downy
bed, lulling Harry to sleep. Sometimes he would awaken, only to nod off again.
A sound of thunder coming nearer woke him up next. His cloud shook suddenly and
Harry grabbed the white fluff with both hands lest he’d fall off. The thunder
was very close now, making Harry’s ears ring.
“Harry!”
“Madam Pomfrey, Madam Pomfrey! Harry is moving!”
“Harry, say something!”
“He can’t say anything, Ron. He’s still unconscious!”
“No, he’s not! I saw him move!”
“That doesn’t mean he’s awake, it could be a reflex!”
 
Harry wished the thunder would move on and stop shouting. Something pulled on
his cloud, leaving Harry’s feet hanging from the edge. He tried to climb back
on but the cloud was getting smaller and smaller by the minute! Desperately
clinging to the last piece of fluff, Harry pulled his knees up.
He startled when a bright light blinded him unexpectedly, shocking him into
releasing the hold on his cloud. He tried to grab it again but the cloud was
already dissipating, the thick fluff turning into a milky fog. Harry panicked
as he started falling, his arms and legs flailing helplessly. The thunder
seemed to be following him and it was getting obnoxiously loud.
“Harry!”
“Mr Potter!”
“Mate, wake up!”
 
Opening his eyes abruptly, Harry stared at the white hospital ceiling. A bright
light entered his vision and he squinted against it.
“Mr Potter, can you hear me?”
Harry recognized Madam Pomfrey’s voice. His eyes tried to find her, but his
vision was too fuzzy without his glasses. “Mmm.” He mumbled.
He saw something white reach past him and all of a sudden he could see properly
again, the familiar weight of spectacles touching his face. Madam Pomfrey
pressed a glass of water against Harry’s parched lips. He drank it greedily,
quenching his thirst, and slowly registered his two best friends.
 
Hermione and Ron were each standing on the opposite sides of Harry’s hospital
bed, attentively following his every move. The bushy haired girl was clutching
his hand, he realized suddenly. Harry thought she looked like she sometimes did
in class when she knew the right answer, the only thing missing was her arm
waving around, trying to get the teacher’s attention. He reckoned she was going
to pop soon and indeed, Hermione couldn’t keep quiet any longer.
“Harry, how are you feeling? What do you remember? Do you know where you are?”
Firing her questions rapidly, she squeezed his hand.
Harry looked down at their clasped hands and then back at Hermione. “You broke
my cloud.” He said.
Hermione’s expression turned to shocked and opposite her, Ron was gaping at
Harry with an open mouth.
“He’s gone mental!” Exclaimed the red-head suddenly. Hermione’s outraged
‘Ronald!’ was lost in the sound of Harry’s giggles.
 
“Mr Potter?” Helping him sit up, Madame Pomfrey started casting diagnostic
spells while watching her patient closely. “Do you remember how you got
injured?”
“Umm, I hit my head?” Harry’s answer came out more like a question.
“Are you asking me or is that what you remember?” The mediwitch lit up her wand
and checked Harry’s responses again by directing the light to first his right
and then his left eye.
Blinking owlishly, Harry tried to clear the white spots that were impairing his
vision. “I remember talking to Snape and then hitting my head when he threw me
out.”
Harry ignored Hermione’s “Professor Snape, Harry.”
Gingerly touching the back of his head, he carefully examined his scalp. It was
a bit tender, but Harry has had much worse. Uncle Vernon once slapped him so
hard his head hit the stair bannister, giving Harry a scar that was thankfully
hidden under his hair. That experience has taught him to move away from
furniture whenever his uncle came close.
 
He was brought out of his musing by Madam Pomfrey’s voice.
“Ms Granger and Mr Weasley, both of you best hurry up to your classes, the
lunch hour is almost over and I need to tend to my patient. You can visit Mr
Potter later.”
Hermione hugged Harry carefully, quietly sniffling into his hair. “I’m so glad
you’re awake, Harry. I was so worried!”
Harry awkwardly pat her back, her bushy mane tickling his face. “I’m ok,
Hermione.” He said lamely.
“Come on, Mione. You don’t want to miss Transfiguration.” Ron gently pulled her
away from Harry, grinning at the grateful look in his best friend’s eyes. “See
you later, mate. We’ll come back before supper.”
“Bye.” Harry waved them away, thinking that he didn’t even have his class
schedule yet. He wasn’t even sure what day it was.
 
Harry startled when Madam Pomfrey cast a refreshing and a cleansing charm on
him. “I could’ve just taken a shower.” He grumbled.
Madam Pomfrey regarded him with a stern look on her face. “I have to go inform
the headmaster that you are awake. You are not to leave the bed, is that clear
young man?”
When Harry nodded, she continued. “Now, how are you feeling? Any nausea?
Dizziness? Headache?”
“A little headache.” Answered Harry, accepting a vial of pain potion the
mediwitch handed him immediately.
“Rest for a bit, I’m sure the headmaster will want to talk to you soon.” Harry
watched Madam Pomfrey walk to her office and close the door behind her.
He settled back into his pillow, remembering dreaming about a fluffy cloud and
how peaceful he had felt. He closed his eyes with a sigh, trying to recall the
exact same feeling.
 
 
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Severus was sitting in the Great Hall, trying to ignore the prattling teachers
and pretending to eat the food in front of him. He was about to excuse himself
when a silvery figure floated to the head table.
An elegant swan, swimming around the headmaster, bowed its head to relay the
message. Severus recognized Poppy’s Patronus and leaned closer, eavesdropping.
‘Harry is awake. He is coherent and reacts well.’
Poppy’s voice was slightly distorted but the message was clear. Albus pushed
away from the table immediately and beckoned Severus to follow.
 
Briskly walking through the almost empty halls, the majority of students was
still having lunch after all, they made it to the hospital wing in record time.
Before entering through the double door, the headmaster stopped and turned to
Severus.
“I would like to talk to Harry alone at first. You may wait inside, but don’t
let Harry see you. I want him to be able to talk freely, without any outside
influence.”
The infernal twinkle was back in the old man’s eyes and were Severus not
feeling apprehensive about seeing Potter again, he would have been annoyed.
“Very well, I will remain hidden.”
“Excellent. Come along then.”
 
Albus led them inside, along the empty hospital beds to the other side of the
room. Dividing screens were separating the last bed from the rest of the room,
giving its occupant a sample of privacy.
Gesturing at a chair where Severus should sit, the headmaster walked further
and soon disappeared behind the screens.
 
Severus felt restless. The past three days were horrendous, not only had the
classes started again, leaving him dealing with all the dunderheads, he was
also unable to sleep. Every time he closed his eyes, an image of Potter, lying
in a pool of blood, flashed through his mind. No matter how much he occluded,
at the point of drifting off the image would pop back in his head.
Hearing Poppy’s Patronus announce the boy was awake and well, filled Severus
with relief and dread in equal measure. Relief that he didn’t kill Potter,
dread that Azkaban was looming over his head now more than ever.
 
He heard Poppy greet the headmaster and then excuse herself to her office.
Severus stopped pacing and sank into the appointed chair, reinforcing the
occlumency shields to keep his emotions in check.
 
“Hello, Harry.” He heard Albus speak. “How are you feeling, my boy?”
Potter’s voice was barely audible and Severus had to strain his ears to catch
all the words.
“Hello, Headmaster. I’m fine, just a little headache. Madam Pomfrey gave me a
potion.”
“That’s good, good.” Severus imagined Albus nodding his head. “Harry, can you
tell me what happened?”
 
Here it comes, thought Severus. Potter is going to accuse him of a murder
attempt and insist Severus is locked in Azkaban for the rest of his life. And
he couldn’t even oppose him because he knew Potter would be right.
“Umm, I talked to professor Snape and when he sent me away I slipped and hit my
head, sir.”
 
Severus gawked at the screen that separated him from Albus and Potter as if he
could see through it if he tried hard enough.
'He slipped and hit his head?’ Severus thought in disbelief. Is he perhaps
suffering from amnesia? But then he wouldn’t remember the incident at all. The
potions master was puzzled.
“Is that all that happened? Do not be afraid to tell me the whole truth, Harry.
I have already spoken to professor Snape.” Albus’s voice was gentle and
reassuring.
Severus almost missed Potter’s answer, his tone hushed and insecure.
“He’s mad at me, isn’t he? I tried to apologize to him but he didn’t believe
me. And I made him angry when I asked for more occlumency lessons.”
“And what else?”
 
Getting up from the chair, Severus started pacing again. He was getting annoyed
with Albus. Why didn’t the old fool reassure Potter that he wasn’t angry with
him? Why would he let him believe he was the one who was in trouble? Severus
concentrated his thoughts on being irritated with the headmaster rather than
examine his suddenly chivalrous feelings towards Potter.
 
“Umm… he took twenty points from Gryffindor.” The boy answered after a slight
pause.
“Harry?”
Severus couldn’t contain his curiosity any longer and cast a disillusionment
charm on himself. He knew it wouldn’t fool Albus but he would remain invisible
to Potter.
Stepping around the dividing screen, Severus took in the scene in front of him.
Potter was sitting propped up on his bed, still a bit too pale but otherwise
looking quite well. Albus has transfigured the visitor’s chair into a
comfortable armchair and was gazing at the young Gryffindor, never letting on
he has noticed the disillusioned potions master.
 
“Harry? Did professor Snape hurt you?” Albus has finally asked. The question
they were dancing around all this time was out in the open at last.
“No!” Exclaimed Potter, a strange emotion flashing in those green eyes but
Severus was too distracted by the boy’s answer to be able to identify it. “I
shouted at him and made him angry, it was all my fault!”
Potter was looking at Albus with pleading eyes as if afraid the headmaster
won’t believe him. Severus was frankly astonished. Of all the outcomes he would
have expected, this scenario wasn’t amongst them. Observing the boy’s slumped
shoulders, he wondered how he ever could have perceived Potter as arrogant.
Short-tempered, yes, often letting anger get the better of himself. But
arrogant?
 
Albus leaned over and patted Potter’s shoulder. “Nobody blames you, my boy. It
was an unfortunate accident and I’m very happy you’re feeling better. I am sure
professor Snape will come talk to you soon as well.”
Nostrils flaring in anger, Severus could barely restrain himself from shouting
at Albus. Was the man completely insane? Even though he understood the
headmaster was probably trying to save Severus’s hide and keep him out of
Azkaban, downplaying the incident in such a manner was outright disgraceful.
Potter, however, appeared to be reassured and nodded his head gently, wincing
as if the slight movement hurt his head.
Albus seemed to have noticed Potter’s pained expression, getting up and
transfiguring the armchair back.
“Get some sleep, Harry. Don’t worry yourself about anything but your recovery.
I’m sure with Ms Granger’s help you’ll catch up on your classes quickly and the
rest will take care of itself, you see.” Smiling pleasantly, Albus patted the
boy one last time and turned to leave, having the audacity to wink at Severus
as he walked past him.
 
Severus ignored him. Instead, he contemplated Potter who took off his glasses
and slid down on the bed, burrowing himself under the blanket. He looked so
small, curled up into a tight little ball like that.
Severus sat down on the vacant chair, his mind whirling with thoughts as he
watched the boy slumber.
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     I hope the changing POV is not too confusing, I want to show how
     Severus or Harry react to certain situations.
     Thank you all for reading, sweet comments and kudo's, you guys rock!
     ♥
***** Chapter 7 *****
 
Harry wasn’t dozing off for long before Madam Pomfrey returned, carrying a tray
of food. She set it down on the bedside table and froze, staring strangely at
the chair next to Harry’s bed.
Harry curiously glanced to his left, examining the chair, but he couldn’t see
anything wrong with it. After a while, Madam Pomfrey blinked and turned to
Harry.
“I’ve brought you some lunch, Mr Potter, try to eat at least half of it. Is the
headache gone?” Propping a pillow behind Harry’s back to help him sit up
straight, Madam Pomfrey made sure he was comfortable before placing the tray on
his lap.
Harry eyed the bowl of chicken broth and two pieces of toast. It smelled
delicious but he wasn’t sure he was going to be able to eat. His stomach was
tight and he wasn’t hungry at all. After a whole summer with the Dursleys,
where Harry was happy if he got to eat at least once a day, his body has
adjusted to the lack of nourishment. It usually took him a few weeks after
Hogwarts has started to reprogram his stomach to the regular intake of food.
Nevertheless, he picked up a spoon and slowly started eating. Pausing from time
to time to calm his protesting belly, he managed to eat half of the broth.
Madam Pomfrey observed him closely, taking the tray away when she was sure he
couldn’t eat anymore.
 
“Next time I want you to try to eat a bit more, Mr Potter.” She told him
sternly. “Now, what about that headache?”
“It’s better.” Replied Harry dutifully.
“You are prone to experience headaches and dizziness while you recover. It is
important you inform me when that happens.”
Harry nodded, knowing the mediwitch was serious. He had spent enough time in
the hospital wing to recognize the hidden threat in her voice. If he didn’t
behave, she would keep him here all the longer and Harry didn’t want that to
happen.
With a last stern nod she left him alone and Harry dozed off again.
 
Next, he woke to the familiar sound of his friends’ bickering.
“I still say you shouldn’t have hexed him, Ron. Next time just ignore him.”
Hermione’s reproachful voice came closer and Harry reached for his glasses.
“The git’s deserved it.” Came the answer from Ron.
Harry smiled at his two best friends as he sat up again. “Hi guys.”
“Hey Harry, feeling better?” Ron plopped down on the visitor’s chair and
propped his feet up on Harry’s bed. Harry snickered at Hermione’s disgruntled
expression as she eyed Ron, perching herself on the edge of the hospital bed.
“So Ron, who did you hex?” Asked Harry curiously.
“Malfoy.” The redhead's face conveyed the disgust he felt. “The ferret was
yapping about how you were faking illness just to get more attention, how you
were milking your fame now that people regarded you as their little hero again.
Those were his words, not mine.”
“Oh.” Said Harry dismayed. “Hope you hexed him good.”
“I made his nose and ear hair grow at rapid speed.” Grinned Ron. “By the time
he ran out of the Great hall, it was so long he was tripping over it!”
“Oh, brilliant! I wish I could’ve seen that!” Laughed Harry, conjuring an image
of a hairy Malfoy in his head.
“It was stupid.” Said Hermione disapprovingly. “You lost Gryffindor fifteen
points and you have a detention with professor Snape.”
“Nah, it was worth it.” Shrugged Ron still grinning.
 
“Harry?” Asked Hermione carefully after a while. “What exactly happened that
night when you went to professor Snape?”
Harry looked down at his lap, avoiding eye contact. “I tried to tell him I was
sorry about snooping around his pensieve, but he didn’t believe me.”
 
During the train ride to Hogwarts, Harry had finally confessed to his friends
about watching the potions master’s memory he wasn’t meant to see, though he
didn’t tell them what the memory was about. He also explained that was the main
reason he was skipping occlumency lessons last year, making him an easy target
to Voldemort’s machinations.
 
“What did he say?” Asked Hermione gently as if not to spook him.
“Compared me to my father, got annoyed with me… the usual. Then I asked for
more lessons and he got furious. I shouted at him and he shoved me out of the
door.” Harry’s voice was very matter-of-fact yet he felt his insides quiver
nervously.
“He pushed you?” Gasped Hermione.
Ron put his feet down and leaned closer. “This is it, mate! We can use this to
get rid of the slimy git once and for all! If you tell Dumbledore Snape
physically attacked you, he will have no choice but to sack the git!”
Hermione was watching Harry tearfully, too shocked to react yet.
The messy haired boy looked up at his best friend, fidgeting with the blanket
anxiously. “I don’t think that’s a good idea, Ron. I already spoke to
Dumbledore and I’m happy enough I’m not in trouble for disrespecting a teacher.
You know how Snape tries to get me expelled for every little thing, I’m not
going to stir things up any more than necessary.”
Ron looked disappointed and groaned. “Noo, that means we are stuck with the git
for two more years! Why did he have to change his requirements and accept
Exceed Expectations students in his class this year? I thought I was safe, he
usually only accepts Outstanding after the fifth year.”
 
Finally overcoming her shock, Hermione addressed the redhead first. “He had to
accept EE students because otherwise there would be only three people attending
this year. And I can’t see why you would complain about it when you need
potions N.E.W.T. in order to be accepted into the Auror Programme.”
“Oh yeah.” Agreed Ron unhappily, mumbling under his breath about bloody slimy
gits.
“And Harry.” Hermione turned to her other friend. “You really should talk to
professor Dumbledore again. I’m sure he doesn’t condone physical violence
against students. Or you could report it to the Ministry and they will start an
investigation.”
Harry shook his head quickly, wincing a little at the stabbing pain in his
temples. “I’m not going anywhere near the Ministry after they ignored me last
year and sent Umbridge to Hogwarts. They nearly got me expelled and wanted to
snap my wand!”
He rested his hand on Hermione’s, squeezing it gently. “Just leave it be,
Mione. Please?”
“But Harry, you got really hurt! And…” Hermione looked distressed when Harry
interrupted her.
“And it was my own fault! Yes, Snape pushed me but I provoked him, ok? If I
just kept my mouth shut nothing would’ve happened.” Harry knew this was true,
whenever he talked back to uncle Vernon, the stout man would slap him twice as
hard.
Harry had no intention of angering Snape even more, especially when the man was
willing to let the incident go. At least, he thought that was what Dumbledore
had implied.
 
“Just leave him be, Mione.” Said Ron when he saw Hermione open her mouth to
argue with Harry some more. “Here mate, we brought you some chocolate frogs.
And a get well card from the Gryffindors.”
“Thanks, Ron.” Harry unpacked a chocolate frog and bit off its head, grateful
for his friend’s ability to diffuse the tension.
Hermione didn’t look too happy but after a while joined their conversation,
telling Harry about the classes he had missed and giving him homework.
Madam Pomfrey came to check on Harry later, bringing him dinner and another
round of potions. Ron and Hermione stayed with him while he ate, the three of
them and even Madam Pomfrey laughing when Ron’s stomach made gurgling noises.
Once Harry finished eating, Madam Pomfrey, ushering his friends out of the
hospital wing, also left to attend dinner at the Great Hall.
 
Making himself comfortable, Harry picked up the Transfiguration homework and
started to read. Five minutes later his eyes were already drooping and Harry
scooted down on the bed, ready to doze off. However, very soon he became aware
of an urgent need to pee. All the pumpkin juice he drank with dinner was taking
its toll on Harry’s bladder.
Carefully sitting up, he let his feet fall over the edge of his bed until they
touched the cold floor. A wave of dizziness hit him as soon as he stood up,
blacking out his vision for a second.
Harry gripped the visitor’s chair for support, wondering if he could use it as
a crutch. After a while, the dizziness subsided and Harry gingerly took a few
steps towards the bathroom, pushing the chair in front of him. Forced to stop
every time the dizziness threatened to overwhelm him, his progress was
painstakingly slow.
At long last, he made it to the bathroom, his bladder thanking him for the
much-needed relief.
 
Holding the door to support himself, he stepped back to the hospital ward only
to collide with a black wall. Something gripped his forearms and Harry looked
up with trepidation, finding two black eyes looking back at him.
“Professor!” Harry squeaked in surprise.
“Mr Potter. What are you doing out of bed?” Snape was watching him with a
strangely neutral expression, which Harry found very unnerving.
“Umm, I had to use the bathroom. Sir.” Harry’s eyes darted up to the potions
master’s face before going back to study the tiny buttons on Snape’s robe.
All of a sudden, Snape let go of his arms and stepped back. The unexpectedness
of that action had Harry swaying on his feet, gripping the door behind him
blindly as he got hit by another dizzy spell.
“You fool!” Exclaimed Snape, his voice annoyed. “You’re barely standing on your
feet, you should not be traipsing around!”
He seized Harry’s forearms again and pulled him away from the door. Panicking
slightly, Harry tried to stay as still as possible, not wanting to ignite the
potions master’s ire any further.
He felt incredibly vulnerable. He didn’t have his wand with him, he could not
run away even if he wanted to… he was completely at the mercy of a man who sent
him flying to a wall the last time they met.
 
“Come on, Potter, back to bed.” Snape pulled Harry to his side and wrapped an
arm around his waist, supporting his weight and guiding Harry across the room.
Harry didn’t dare to speak, sneaking a peek at the potions master’s face. The
man was staring ahead, his expression void of any emotion.
Not paying enough attention to his feet, Harry tripped over his too-long pyjama
trousers. Snape caught him with one hand, the other one still wrapped around
Harry’s waist.
“Really Potter, it is a wonder you can fly so gracefully when on the ground you
resemble a newly born foal.” He said snarkily.
Harry was too distracted by a large warm hand pressed against his chest to
remember his vow to keep his mouth shut.
“Being thrown to a wall tends to mess with one’s coordination.” He blurted out
sarcastically.
 
The potions master froze and Harry cringed, bracing himself for a blow. When it
didn’t come, he cautiously peered at his professor. Snape was standing next to
him, observing him with furrowed brows.
“Quite.” He said at last, motioning Harry to continue his journey to bed.
Confused with Snape’s mild demeanour, Harry obediently resumed walking. He was
expecting the man to leave once Harry was safely ensconced in his bed.
But the potions master stood there, his robes tightly draped around him and
arms folded across his chest. Like this, he truly resembled a great black bat
with the wings folded around its body. Harry sat back and waited, not having a
clue what Snape could want.
Another minute passed in complete silence and Harry began to fidget. Snape was
watching him closely, his eyes falling on Harry’s hands which were pulling the
blanket up to his chin.
 
“Mr Potter.” He spoke suddenly, startling the messy haired teen. “I want to
offer you my sincere apology. My behaviour towards you was despicable and
disgraceful. I make no excuses for my violent outburst and can only offer you
my reassurance that it will not happen again.”
Harry was gaping at him in astonishment. Had he accidentally fallen into some
alternate universe? Was somebody else here polyjuiced as the potions master?
He realized Snape was staring at him intently, waiting for a reply.
“Thank you.” Said Harry, his voice cracking.
He knew he probably looked silly holding the blanket in front of his chest like
a shield but he couldn’t help himself. He was extremely unnerved by this
version of Snape whose dark eyes followed Harry’s every move. Harry wondered if
Snape’s eyes were black or dark brown. Or perhaps very dark grey? Black would
suit him the best, decided Harry, what with the long black hair and black
robes.
 
All of a sudden, Harry noticed Snape was looking at him with a raised eyebrow,
something like an amusement flickering in his eyes. Harry looked down at his
hands and blushed. Oh Merlin, he had been staring at Snape and contemplating
his eyes! What was wrong with him?
“Mr Potter.” Harry glanced at the man when he spoke again. “I also wanted to
inform you I accept your apology concerning the pensieve incident. As soon as
you are released from the hospital wing we will reschedule and resume your
occlumency lessons.”
Harry was gaping again. There was no way this was really happening. He was
expecting Voldemort to walz in any moment, proclaiming his undying love for
Dumbledore and asking Harry to be his best man.
“I trust that is acceptable?” Asked Snape when Harry took too long to answer.
“Yes, sir. Thank you.” Harry murmured, his brain feeling too fuzzy to come up
with a longer response.
Snape didn’t seem to mind, he nodded his head sharply and took a step back,
ready to take his leave.
“Get some sleep, Mr Potter. You look rather… peaky.” With these words, he
turned on his heel and stalked away from Harry, his robes billowing behind him
like great black wings.
 
Harry had to pinch himself to make sure he wasn’t asleep. Staring at the place
where the potions master stood just a moment ago, Harry wasn’t completely
convinced he didn’t dream the whole thing. It had felt sort of real, but then
so had his dream about a cloud.
Harry chuckled to himself as he suddenly imagined Snape sitting on a white
fluffy cloud, a sour expression on his face and black wings sticking out of his
back.
No, that wasn’t right, Snape was definitely not an angel.
But maybe, Harry mused, he wasn’t quite the devil either.
 
 
***** Chapter 8 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus was sitting behind his office desk, marking the third year’s essays and
bemoaning the fact he was stuck teaching such dunderheads. ‘Bezoar is a
stonified heart of hippogriff.’ How do they even come up with such nonsense?
His red-inked quill slashed through the absurd sentence with vengeance. ‘Mr
Spencer, if you turn your homework in one more time without doing any actual
research, I will personally force-feed your next potion concoction to your
familiar.’
Sighing tiredly, Severus stretched his arms and glanced at the clock.
 
He didn’t sleep well last night, with the threat of Potter and Azkaban hanging
over his head. First, he worried Potter won’t wake up. Poppy has lifted the
healing coma at midnight and they – Poppy, Albus, Minerva and Severus – sat
with the boy for two hours yet he remained unconscious. Eventually, they had
retired but Severus couldn’t sleep. What if the boy never wakes? What if he
wakes up tomorrow and this is the last night Severus spends as a free man? The
thoughts kept whirling in his head.
Thursday morning came and the boy’s condition remained unchanged, all the worry
making Severus even more irritable than he normally was. His morning classes
were horrible, he took points right and left, not even his Slytherins dared to
push his limits.
At last, at lunch came his salvation. Potter was awake and didn’t blame Severus
for his injury. And wasn’t that curious? Severus still couldn’t wrap his head
around that revelation.
 
The potions master’s musings were interrupted by a loud banging on his office
door. He picked up his wand with narrowed eyes and spelt the door open.
Ronald Weasley walked inside and stood in front of Severus defiantly, hands
hidden in his trouser’s pockets.
“Mr Weasley, I don’t believe I have allowed you to enter.” Severus kept marking
the essays, not looking at the sixth year Gryffindor beyond the initial glance.
“What? But you opened the door!” The redhead exclaimed.
Severus sneered at him. “Five points from Gryffindor for not addressing your
teacher correctly. Another five for being disrespectful.”
Weasley’s face turned almost as red as his hair, giving the impression his
whole head was on fire. He glared at Severus hatefully, apparently holding
himself back from shouting at his professor.
“Anything you like to share, Mr Weasley?” Severus’s tone was deliciously
venomous and he was enjoying the effect it had on the lanky boy. The redhead’s
body went rigid with anger, yet he couldn’t stand the potions master’s piercing
stare and bowed his head.
“No, sir.” He bit out through gritted teeth.
 
Severus revelled in these little victories. Putting the cocky Gryffindors in
their place gave him a feeling of intense satisfaction. For seven years he’d
been hunted by the Marauders and even though the two worst ones, Potter and
Black, were now dead, he still felt entitled to take his revenge on the next
generation.
 
“Very well, come with me.” Severus stalked out of his office, knowing the
redhead would follow.
He led them through the dark dungeon’s corridor all the way to the potions
classroom. Pointing at the pile of dirty cauldrons, he said. “For your
detention, you will clean all of these. Without magic, Mr Weasley. You have two
hours, if you’re not finished by then, you will return tomorrow evening. Am I
making myself clear?”
“Yes, sir.” Mumbled the boy and walked to the sink, picking up the first
cauldron.
 
Severus watched him for a while with a sneer before he turned to his desk. He
has left the essays in his office but he didn’t feel like marking anymore.
He’ll read through that drivel in the morning after he’s had at least three
cups of coffee.
Sitting down, he pulled out his planner, trying to decide what days suited him
the best for Potter’s renewed occlumency lessons. Minerva has provided him with
a copy of the boy’s timetable and after careful consideration, he decided on
Tuesday and Friday evening.
 
Thinking about Potter made him frown. The boy was an enigma, implying to the
headmaster the incident was essentially his fault yet the comment he made to
Severus, about being thrown to a wall, clearly showed Potter was very much
aware of the fact that it was indeed Severus who caused him the injury.
And the way he reacted afterwards, cringing into himself as if expecting
Severus would hit him. Yet the potions master didn’t get the impression Potter
was actually afraid of him. He was certainly defiant enough in many of their
confrontations.
Severus was puzzled. Clearly, he didn’t know the boy at all. All this time he
treated him like a miniature James Potter, an arrogant, egoistic and spoilt
brat. Yet Potter’s actions and behaviour that night and again today showed that
he was nothing like his father. And that was a fact Severus was finding
difficult to comprehend.
 
Casting a quick tempus charm, he stood up from his desk and addressed the lanky
boy whose uniform was by now completely drenched in soapy water.
“Mr Weasley, your detention is over. Though it seems you have used more water
on yourself than on the cauldrons. Next time you wish to bathe, do it in your
own time. I will not tolerate such shenanigans during detention, understood?”
The redhead glared at him from under his wet fringe, wringing out the corner of
his wet shirt above the sink. He picked up the school robe he’d thrown over the
closest chair and hurried out of the classroom without a word. He was almost
out of the door when Severus heard him mutter under his breath.
“At least I shower regularly, you slimy git!”
“I heard that, Mr Weasley! Ten points from Gryffindor!”
Severus smirked when Weasley looked back wide-eyed and rushed away quickly
before Severus would take any more points.
 
 
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
 
Harry was ready to climb the hospital walls. He was bored to tears! He had
finished all the homework Hermione brought him, he had read three chapters
ahead to be prepared for the upcoming lessons, he even wrote an extra-credit
essay for professor Adams, the new DADA teacher.
His friends visited him whenever they could, but Harry was still stuck here
alone most of the time.
 
It was now Sunday afternoon and he didn’t know how much of this boredom he
could take.
Madam Pomfrey came out of her office just then, carrying a small leather pouch.
“Mr Potter, how are you feeling? Any dizzy spells today?” She asked, casting
the – by now well-known to Harry – diagnostic spell.
“I’m fine, Madam Pomfrey. No dizziness today.” Answered Harry a bit too
cheerfully, trying to convince the mediwitch he was healthy again.
“Mmhmm.” Hummed Madam Pomfrey, concentrating on her wand. “You are recovering
nicely but your body still needs more time to recuperate.”
Seeing Harry making a long face, she continued. “If I were to release you
today, will you promise me to be especially careful? To report any major
dizziness or headache? To return to the hospital wing immediately if you’re
feeling faint?”
Harry sat up straight on his bed, nodding eagerly. “Yes, Madam Pomfrey, I
promise!”
 
The mediwitch observed him sternly, then handed him the leather pouch. “These
are mild pain potions you are allowed to take for the headaches. You must not
ingest more than two of these within twenty-four hours, understood? If the
headache doesn’t subside after this potion, you must come see me. Do you have
any questions?”
Harry examined the pouch and counted ten vials filled with red pain potion.
There were, however, also three vials filled with a potion Harry didn’t
recognize.
“What are these for?” He asked curiously.
“Ah, that is a special version of the Dreamless Sleep Potion.” Answered Madam
Pomfrey. “Professor Snape has kindly adjusted the existing formula to make it
safe for your condition.”
Harry’s mouth popped open in astonishment. Snape had brewed these especially
for him? “For me?” He murmured surprised.
“Yes, you had suffered a concussion and the regular Dreamless Sleep Potion
could cause you a relapse.” Explained the mediwitch unnecessarily.
 
Harry understood why he wasn’t allowed to take the traditional potion. What he
didn’t understand was why would Snape find the time to modify the potion
especially for Harry. Sure, he brewed all the potions for the hospital wing but
Dreamless Sleep was not a life-saving one. Harry could’ve gone without it until
the time he was allowed to take the regular version.
“There are only three of them.” He said finally, looking up at Madam Pomfrey.
“Yes, professor Snape insisted you should only take these every other night.
Should you need more, you’ll have to ask the professor yourself.”
Harry nodded at the mediwitch and scrambled out of bed when she held out a pile
of Harry’s everyday clothes.
“Go on, then. I expect to see you back in three days for a checkup. Good day,
Mr Potter.” After dismissing Harry, Madam Pomfrey returned to her office.
 
Harry quickly changed from his pyjamas, stuffed the school books, parchments
and get well gifts to his backpack, looking around making sure he didn’t forget
anything. At last, grabbing his wand and the potions pouch, Harry was ready to
go.
Exiting the hospital wing, Harry felt exhilarated. He was finally free to go
where he wanted!
Climbing the staircases towards the Gryffindor Tower, he waved in greeting when
he spied Luna sitting in one of the windowsills. She waved at him dreamily,
going back to braiding something that looked suspiciously like grass leaves.
 
When Harry finally reached the portrait of The Fat Lady, he was exhausted, his
head throbbing painfully. Realizing he didn’t know the password, he knocked on
the frame and hoped someone would hear him.
The Fat Lady watched him curiously, commenting idly on his messy hair.
All of a sudden the portrait swung open, revealing Ginny and Dean, holding
hands and laughing happily.
“Harry! How are you?” Ginny stepped out and hugged Harry tightly.
“Hey, Harry. Welcome back.” Dean smiled at him and pulled his girlfriend back.
Harry grinned at them. “Hi Ginny, Dean. Thanks, I’m feeling better.”
The two lovebirds moved to the side to let Harry climb through the portrait
opening.
“We’ll talk later, ok Harry? Oh, the password is Code of Chivalry. See ya!”
Called Ginny after him as she dragged Dean away.
 
Harry entered the Gryffindor common room, scanning the place for his friends.
Not many people were staying inside on a sunny Sunday afternoon, just a couple
of first years who were all gaping at Harry.
He smiled at them and rolled his eyes when one of the girls squealed and
promptly fell out of her chair.
Harry climbed the stairs to the boys' dormitory, finding it empty and deciding
to take a quick nap. Kicking off his shoes, he downed one of the pain potions
and lay down, closing his eyes.
As the headache eased up, Harry drifted off slowly, dreaming of the dark eyes
that watched his every move.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Next chapter: Harry goes back to classes
***** Chapter 9 *****
Chapter Notes
     Today (9th of January) we celebrate the birthday of our favourite
     potions master!
     ♥ HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEVERUS SNAPE!!!♥
     --------------------------------------------------------
     And now, the story continues...
 
 
 
On Monday morning, the sixth year’s boys dormitory resembled a war zone. After
a leisurely weekend of staying up late and sleeping in the next day, the boys
had trouble waking up. Stumbling to the bathroom, looking for their misplaced
shoes and wayward ties or doing some last minute homework, it was a wonder they
made it to breakfast in time.
 
Harry sat down next to Ron who immediately started piling an alarming amount of
food on his plate. Harry grinned at Hermione, sitting across from him, as she
fondly rolled her eyes at the redhead.
Not feeling very hungry but knowing he had to eat something, Harry grabbed a
piece of toast and served himself a portion of scrambled eggs.
“Harry, have you read the notes on Amorentia I lent you? Professor Snape hinted
it will be included in the end year’s exams.” Hermione asked, a potions book
propped against her teacup.
“Yeah, I’ve read all your notes. Even the ones on History of Magic.” Replied
Harry, earning himself an approving smile from the bushy-haired girl.
“Mate, have you really gone mental?” Exclaimed Ron, spraying the table with
toast crumbles that flew out of his mouth. “What are you doing being all
studious all of a sudden? You’re not turning into a second Hermione, are you?”
The redhead looked horrified with that thought.
“No, mate.” Laughed Harry at his friend’s expression. “Just got really bored in
the hospital wing.”
“Phew, you had me worried there for a minute. Don’t need another bookworm for a
friend.” Ron said, stucking the proverbial foot in his mouth.
“Well then, Ronald, if being my friend is so terrible, perhaps you should find
someone else who will check your homework and make sure you have it ready on
time. I won’t bother anymore!” Hermione closed her book with a loud snap and
stormed away from the table.
 
“Bollocks.” Swore Ron under his breath. “She’ll be mad at me for days! And we
have double Potions first thing this morning, urgh.” He groaned pitifully.
“I know.” Agreed Harry sympathetically, looking up at the head table to see
what mood was Snape in. He startled when he realized Snape was watching him
this whole time, a cup of coffee in hand and an unreadable expression on his
face. Harry blinked in surprise and turned back to Ron, feeling quite hot all
of a sudden.
“You ok, mate?” Asked the redhead. “You look a bit flushed. Are you feeling
dizzy?”
Warmed by his friend’s concern, Harry gulped down some pumpkin juice and shook
his head. “No, I’m alright. Shall we go to Potions?”
“Yeah, we better. Don’t want to be late, Snape has already left.” Ron stood up
and waited for Harry to join him.
“He has?” Harry was looking at the potions master’s empty seat with a strange
churning in his stomach. He shouldn’t have eaten the eggs, he decided. That
must be the reason he felt so weird all of a sudden.
 
The two friends made their way towards the dungeons, stopping in front of the
potions classroom where the rest of their classmates were already waiting.
Even with the Exceed Expectations students now allowed to attend, the class was
still quite small. Three Gryffindors, three Ravenclaws, one Hufflepuff and two
Slytherins were all that was left after the fifth year’s O.W.L.s.
Hermione was standing with the Ravenclaws, blatantly ignoring Ron and thus also
not coming near Harry.
“Well, well, well. Look who’s finally decided to show up. What’s the matter,
Potty, trying to gain sympathy with a fake illness didn’t work?” Malfoy drawled
as he stepped in front of Harry.
The other Slytherin, Zabini, watched him with a stoic expression but didn’t
move from his place where he stood propped up against the classroom door.
“Shove off, Malfoy!” Said Ron angrily, taking a step closer.
“Ignore him, Ron.” Harry grabbed his wrist and pulled him back, not giving
Malfoy the satisfaction of taking his bait.
“Listen to your boyfriend, Weasel, perhaps he’ll let you mount him if you
behave.” Sneered Malfoy, making a crude gesture at the redhead.
 
Harry had to hold Ron back with both hands now as he was trying to charge at
the blond Slytherin. Malfoy was laughing at them, taunting them and Harry was
having a hard time keeping his friend detained.
Finally, Harry accidentally tripped Ron and as the lanky boy fell down, he
pulled Harry with him. Harry landed on top of his friend, catching himself on
his hands just before they bumped heads.
Groaning, Ron lay on his back, his hands coming up to steady Harry who ended up
straddling him. “Are you ok? Did you hurt your head?”
Ron’s voice was truly worried and Harry felt incredibly thankful for having a
friend like Ron. Sure, they fought from time to time and they’ve been through
some rough times when they didn’t talk, but in the end, Harry knew they would
die for each other. Suddenly feeling very emotional, Harry blinked at Ron with
moist eyes. “I’m ok, are you hurt?”
Instead of Ron’s reply, a cold voice sounded from the classroom door. “What is
going on here?”
 
Harry turned his head slowly, looking up into the potions master’s eyes. Snape
was watching them with a murderous expression and Harry gulped quietly. The
last thing he wanted was to anger Snape again, especially after their almost
pleasant encounter in the hospital wing.
Before either of them could reply, Malfoy sauntered to his favourite teacher,
smirking. “Potter and Weasley were intent on demonstrating their bedroom
escapades, sir. I always knew Potty was a fairy.”
“Thank you for enlightening us, Mr Malfoy. Proceed to the classroom, all of
you.” Snape stood by the classroom door like some black angel of vengeance,
arms folded across his chest, lip curled in a half-sneer and eyes narrowed.
 
The Ravenclaws were the first to move, closely followed by the rest. Hermione
paused in the doorway, looking back at Harry and Ron with a conflicted
expression, but the potions master’s raised eyebrow had her hurry inside.
Soon, there were only the two best friends left. Harry pushed himself to his
feet, extending a hand to Ron to help him up. After some stumbling, they were
finally both upright.
Ron put his hand on Harry’s shoulder and leaning closer he whispered into his
ear, not wanting their professor to overhear. “Don’t worry about what the
ferret said, Harry. I’ll hex him for it later.”
Harry shook his head slightly. “It’s ok, Ron. Just let it go.”
He glanced at the potions master as they walked into the classroom, acutely
aware of the man’s body almost blocking the doorway. Snape was scowling at Ron
but his gaze flickered to Harry when the teen brushed past him. Their eyes met
and Harry was surprised by the intense emotion he saw in there. For a moment,
he could swear the potions master looked worried as his eyes scanned Harry’s
face.
A blink of an eye later Snape was scowling again, closing the door with a bang
and also stepping into the classroom.
Harry and Ron made their way to the front tables. The rest was already occupied
and Harry could see Ron grimace at the thought of sitting so close to Snape for
two hours.
Stalking past them, Snape’s billowing robes touched Harry’s legs with a soft
caress, giving him goosebumps. Harry stumbled and fell into his chair, feeling
flushed again.
Ignoring Malfoy’s snickers, he set up his potions kit and helped Ron with his
cauldron. He was determinedly ignoring the dark eyes that were once again
watching his every move, making his insides flutter in a way Harry has never
experienced before.
 
 
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Severus was sitting behind his desk, watching Potter set up his cauldron.
 
When he went to let the students inside the classroom and heard a commotion, he
had expected to see Malfoy and Potter locked in a duel.
He didn’t expect to find Potter and Weasley, down on the floor in an outright
inappropriate position. Potter was sitting astride the redhead, his hands on
the other boy’s chest and Weasley holding both of Potter’s thighs.
What Severus believed the most disturbing, was the fact that he had found
Potter, dare he even think it, highly erotic like this. The boy’s flushed face,
his robe hanging to the side, revealing the trousers stretched tightly over the
taut buttocks…
Severus mentally berated himself, this was his student he was thinking about! A
sixteen years old boy!
He had been furious, with himself and his suddenly awoken libido, with Potter
for always inspiring the most intense emotions in Severus, with Weasley who had
no right to touch Potter like that!
 
Severus was observing the messy haired teen who was now busying himself with
helping the redhead.
 
He recalled Potter’s eyes when the boy walked past him, shining brightly and
just too green. His face was flushed and Severus had surveyed him quickly,
making sure the boy was not ill.
 
Severus was strangely irritated that Potter hasn’t looked at him since. He
waved his wand and a list of ingredients appeared on the blackboard.
“Today you will attempt to brew a Draught of Living Death. Why must one proceed
with extreme caution when brewing this potion?” Severus scanned the class
imperiously, ignoring Granger’s waving hand and turned to Potter. “Mr Potter?”
Feeling immensely satisfied that the boy finally looked at him, Severus
regarded the teen with a piercing stare.
“Umm, if not brewed correctly, the potion will send the drinker into a very
deep sleep that can last indefinitely. Sir.” Potter answered, fidgeting with
the cuffs of his sleeves the whole time he spoke but not breaking the eye-
contact with Severus.
“That is correct.” Replied Severus. “And which potion has the power to reverse
the effects of the draught?”
Severus kept staring into Potter’s eyes, the rest of the room seemingly
disappearing from his vision.
“The Wiggenweld Potion, sir.”
Severus raised an eyebrow, impressed. The boy had apparently been studying, the
Wiggenweld Potion wasn’t mentioned until the third chapter of his textbook.
“And the main ingredient of the Wiggenweld Potion?” He asked, curious if Potter
knew this answer as well.
“Salamander blood, sir.” Potter was looking at him expectantly as if waiting
for the next question. The expression on his face was open, almost friendly and
Severus was fascinated by the way Potter’s eyes lit up when he nodded his
agreement to the boy’s answer.
“Correct again, Mr Potter. I see your stay in the hospital wing was spent
productively.” Severus paused slightly and then added. “Ten points to
Gryffindor.”
The boy’s mouth popped open and formed a perfect o. Severus smirked at him,
amused.
 
When he noticed the rest of the class watching them with fascination, he
arranged his features into a fierce scowl and barked out. “What are you waiting
for? Get to work!”
The students scrambled to the storeroom to get their ingredients, the
Ravenclaws already starting to brew before the rest of the class settled down.
Severus walked around the classroom, monitoring their progress and correcting
the more dangerous mistakes. He noticed Potter was having trouble cutting up
the sopophorous bean.
Severus stepped up to the boy from behind and leaned closer, whispering into
his ear. “Crush the bean with your silver dagger, Mr Potter. The juices will be
released more efficiently.”
Almost pressed against the boy’s back like this, Severus felt him shiver.
“Thank you, sir.” Potter murmured, picking up the dagger.
Severus moved away and saw the boy glance at him out of the corner of his eye.
There was no reason for Severus to feel giddy all of a sudden, he told himself.
His changed perceptions of the messy haired teen were stirring all sorts of
unknown emotions within him. He wasn’t sure it was a good thing.
 
When the double period ended, Severus collected samples of the brewed potions
to mark them later. He stopped briefly at Potter’s table and muttered quietly
so only the messy haired teen would hear him. “Mr Potter, stay behind for a
moment.”
The boy looked at him bewildered but nodded in agreement. As Severus stepped
back to his desk, he heard him talk to Weasley.
“You go on, Ron. I need to ask about the homework I missed last week.”
“But Harry, you’ve already done that homework.” Whined Weasley. “Don’t leave me
alone with Hermione, she will be extra mad at me now because I nearly got you
hurt again!”
“Sorry, Ron.” Potter patted the redhead on the shoulder. “Just wait for me
outside, then. I’ll only be a minute.”
Weasley walked out of the door sullenly and Severus heard Malfoy calling out to
him. “What’s the matter, Weasel? Doesn’t Potty put out?”
 
Severus waved his wand to shut and lock the door, throwing a silencing spell on
it as well. He turned to Potter who was watching him curiously.
“Mr Potter, I have reviewed your schedule and decided to hold the occlumency
lessons on Tuesday and Friday evening. I trust that is acceptable?”
Potter’s eyes lit up with understanding. “Oh, yes, sir. Tuesday and Friday are
fine.”
“Good. I assume you remember the importance of clearing your mind every evening
before you go to sleep?” Severus kept his expression solemn, hoping the boy
will take his lessons seriously this time around.
“Yes, sir.” Potter nodded, fidgeting with the strap of his backpack.
Severus brushed a wayward strand of hair behind his ear, smirking when he saw
Potter’s eyes follow his hand. Realizing he got caught staring, Potter blushed
and looked away.
“Very well. I will be expecting you tomorrow evening, eight o’clock sharp. You
may leave now.” Severus waved his wand at the door again, unlocking it and
lifting the silencing charm.
“Yes, sir.” Potter walked to the door, opening it slowly. He peered outside and
then looked back over his shoulder at Severus. “Bye.” He said and darted away.
“Goodbye, Mr Potter.” Answered Severus thoughtfully, his mind filled with the
images of the green-eyed teen.
 
 
 
***** Chapter 10 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
The rest of the Monday classes passed rather quickly for Harry. Having the same
timetable as Ron, the two friends went everywhere together. This fact was not
lost on Malfoy who kept taunting them about being boyfriends in a rather vulgar
manner.
Harry was just trying to ignore him and distract Ron before the redhead got
himself in trouble. Talking to Ron was a good distraction for Harry as well, as
he had no time to think about his suddenly weird reactions to Snape. It didn’t
help that people kept asking him if Snape really awarded him points during
Potions.
Hermione was still not talking to Ron but she had hugged Harry, telling him how
proud she was of him and encouraging him to study more because now he had a
proof that it paid off. Harry hugged her back and promised to try, laughing
when Ron mimicked stabbing a quill in his heart at Harry’s betrayal.
 
After dinner, Hermione left to the library and Harry went with Ron back to the
common room, agreeing to play a game of chess before they would start on their
homework.
The common room, however, was packed and the two friends decided to play the
chess in their dormitory, sitting cross-legged across from each other on Ron’s
bed.
“Shield your king, Harry, or I’ll win this in three moves.” Said Ron. He would
often give Harry tips how to play but even then he’d still win. Harry let go of
a pawn and moved one of his knights instead.
“Better.” Nodded Ron, carefully planning his next move.
“Hey, Ron? Can I ask you something?” Asked Harry hesitantly. Ever since this
morning, he kept thinking about Malfoy’s taunts. He didn’t like the crude words
Malfoy used, but they didn’t bother him half as much as Ron’s reaction to them
did. He needed to know how his friend really felt about it.
“Mmm?” Hummed Ron, not looking up from the chessboard.
“Does it bother you that Malfoy thinks we are boyfriends?” Harry was idly
playing with a loose thread of his sock.
“The ferret is out of his mind. As if I would ever look at a boy like that! I
like girls, with their round hips and nice breasts and long hair… You know what
I mean, right?” Ron was looking at Harry expectantly, waiting for his
agreement.
“Umm, not really.” Harry swallowed nervously, not meeting Ron’s eyes.
“No? I thought you liked Cho last year?”
“Well, I did. But the kiss was weird and the date was just horrible. I haven’t
really liked anybody since then. Definitely not any girl.” Harry glanced at his
friend.
“Maybe you just haven’t found the right one. What’s your type?” Asked Ron, the
chess game temporarily forgotten.
“Type?” Harry was stalling and he knew it.
“Yeah, tall, small, skinny, chubby, blond, brunette… Which one?”
“Umm, tall, slim, long black hair, dark eyes…” Said Harry.
“Yeah, that sounds like Cho. We’ll just find you another one that looks like
that. How about that seventh year Hufflepuff, what’s her name… Andrewson,
Anderson. Something like that.”
“I don’t think that would work.” Harry didn’t see how a date with some random
girl could go much better than his disaster with Cho. “And anyway, it’s also
about a personality, you know? We must have at least something in common, what
would we talk about otherwise?”
“Who cares about personality… as long as she’ll let you snog her and stuff. You
know?” Ron was waggling his eyebrows at Harry with a lewd smile.
Harry laughed at him. “Right, because that’s all that matters in a
relationship.”
“Well, you don’t have to marry her! Just have some fun.” Ron snickered when
Harry threw a pillow at his head.
 
“Anyway.” Harry was suddenly serious again, biting his lip. “I think Malfoy
might be right about me.” He looked up at Ron, dreading his reaction and
praying he was not about to lose his best friend.
Ron was watching him in shocked silence before he burst out laughing. He
slumped sideways on the bed, howling with laughter and knocking over the
chessboard.
Harry didn’t know if he should feel hurt or relieved. “What?” He asked.
Ron was trying to catch enough breath to be able to speak. “I’m… I’m… sorry…
but… but…”
Harry was getting annoyed. “What!?”
The redhead finally composed himself enough to blurt out. “Harry the fairy!” He
howled with laughter again, tears running down his face.
 
Harry got up from the bed and walked to the window. His eyes were stinging as
he tried to suppress the sudden urge to cry. He didn’t know what he expected to
happen but being laughed at by his best friend really hurt.
He didn’t notice the room has gone quiet until he felt Ron standing next to
him.
The redhead put his hand on Harry’s shoulder. “Hey. I’m sorry I laughed.” When
Harry just shrugged half-heartedly, he continued. “I wasn’t laughing at you but
you have to admit it sounded funny.”
Ron turned him until they were standing face to face. “You’re like my little
brother, Harry. I don’t care who you like as long as you are happy, ok?”
“You really mean that?” Harry hated how vulnerable he sounded.
“Yeah. You know Charlie is gay, too, right? I don’t have a problem with that. I
mean, it would be a little weird if you fancied me because you’re like my
family. And I like girls. And boobs. And…”
“Ok, ok, I get the picture.” Harry interrupted him, laughing. “I didn’t know
about Charlie. And I don’t fancy you. I think of you as a family, too.”
Harry was grinning so widely his cheeks were beginning to hurt but he didn’t
care. He was so happy Ron didn’t freak out about him liking boys!
Gay, he was gay. Harry hadn’t dared to say it out loud before now. He still
hasn’t said it but now he at least admitted it to himself and to his best
friend.
 
“Do you think Hermione will be ok with it?” Harry asked after a while.
“Ok with what?” Asked the girl herself as she just entered the boys’ dormitory.
“Umm.” Harry looked at Ron and when his friend nodded with a smile, he turned
to Hermione. “I’m gay.”
The bushy-haired girl watched him expectantly. “Aaand?”
Harry glanced at Ron and then back at her. “And nothing. That’s it.”
“Oh.” Hermione sat down on Harry’s bed. “I already knew that.”
Harry looked at her perplexed. “You did? How? And why didn’t you tell me?”
She rolled her eyes at him, kicking off her shoes and lying down. “It was
fairly obvious after your date with Cho last year. And I noticed you, unlike
the other guys, didn’t gawk at Hannah’s breasts when her shirt got soaking wet
and transparent in Herbology.” Hermione sent a pointed glare at Ron who had the
decency to blush.
“Oh, ok then. Do you think everybody knows? I mean, Malfoy keeps saying
things…” Harry wasn’t too worried about anybody else. As long as he had his
best friends at his side, he didn’t care what the rest of the world thought
anymore. Not after they shunned him last year, calling him a liar and mentally
unstable, only to hail him as a hero now that they had a proof of Voldemort’s
return.
“I don’t think so, Harry.” Said Hermione. “Malfoy is just trying to get under
your skin. If you ignore him, he’ll find someone else to pester.”
Ron shook his head at her. “Wake up, Mione. Malfoy will never leave Harry
alone, he’s obsessed with him! Hey, mate, maybe he fancies you!” He laughed at
Harry’s grimace.
“Merlin, I hope not. I’d rather hide in Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom until
graduation than be anywhere near that ferret face.” Harry didn’t find Malfoy
even remotely attractive.
 
No, when Harry heard the word attractive, he thought of black hair, dark eyes,
tall, lean body, large hands yet slim fingers… unbidden, an image of Snape,
pushing a strand of hair behind his ear, entered Harry’s mind.
Harry remembered how the man whispered in his ear. When Snape wasn’t being his
usual nasty self, his voice was like a melted dark chocolate, wrapping around
Harry in a sweet caress and making him shiver in anticipation.
What would it be like if that voice whispered endearments in Harry’s ears? To
hear that voice moan in pleasure, to scream Harry’s name in the throes of
passion?
Harry blushed when he realized he was getting aroused. He got horny thinking
about Snape! Sitting down quickly, he hoped his friends didn’t notice his
tented trousers.
After a while, Hermione talked the boys into doing their homework, efficiently
distracting Harry from his problem.
 
Later that evening, laying in bed and trying to clear his mind, Harry was stuck
in a vicious circle. He would try to empty his mind but after a while, he would
catch himself thinking about something trivial. That would make him think about
how angry Snape will be when Harry comes to his occlumency lesson unprepared.
And thinking about Snape would bring back all the strange and arousing feelings
about the man until Harry would berate himself and try to clear his mind again.
Suffice to say, Harry gave it up after his third try. He’d just have to hope
Snape won’t flay him alive tomorrow.
Somehow, he finally managed to fall asleep, only to wake up halfway through the
night to find his pyjama bottoms wet and sticky. Fumbling with his wand in the
dark, he cast a cleansing charm over himself and lay back down.
He tried to remember his dream, fleeting images flickering through his mind.
The long hair of his dream lover caressing Harry’s face when they kissed,
strong hands touching him everywhere, a tall body covering Harry completely,
making him feel safe and aroused at the same time, a velvet voice whispering in
his ear…
Harry turned to his side and tried to fall asleep again, decidedly ignoring the
fact that his dream lover looked a whole lot like a certain potions master.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Deep in the dungeons of Hogwarts, Severus Snape couldn’t sleep.
He had spent that evening talking to Albus and the headmaster gave Severus some
disturbing news.
Apparently, Albus has been looking for a ritual the Dark Lord could have used
to ascertain his immortality. After many years of research, the headmaster has
come to a conclusion that the Dark Lord had created certain dark objects that
would bind him to the physical plane of existence.
Severus strongly suspected that Albus didn’t divulge the whole truth, but the
man had hinted that all of these objects must be eliminated before the Dark
Lord could be vanquished. The headmaster was in a process of tracking them down
and had asked Severus for his assistance when the time came to destroy said
objects.
 
In the meantime, he had impressed upon Severus, it was imperative that Harry
Potter learns occlumency. The Dark Lord must not gain access to the boy’s mind
again.
Severus lay in his bed, thinking about Potter’s occlumency lessons from last
year. The boy resented him back then and he had treated him with an equal level
of disdain.
However, their relationship seemed to be gradually transforming into something
less volatile. Perhaps this time, Potter will actually make an effort to learn.
Severus closed his eyes and went through the exercises to clear his mind,
trying to push the image of green eyes out of his head.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you all for the lovely comments and kudos ♥
     Next chapter: Harry's first occlumency lesson
***** Chapter 11 *****
 
 
On Tuesday evening, Harry had to force himself to leave the warmth of the
Gryffindor common room’s cosy fireplace. He waved goodbye to his friends and
walked nervously the familiar path to dungeons.
It was almost eight o’clock and Harry hastened his steps, arriving at the
potions master’s office just in time. He lifted his hand to knock on the door
but hesitated as he was suddenly overcome with anxiety.
A little over a week ago, he was standing on the exact same spot, hoping Snape
would hear him out. He ended up in the hospital wing instead.
Remembering the previous, horrible occlumency lessons only increased Harry’s
apprehension.
 
Steeling himself, he finally knocked. The door swung open before his hand moved
away, revealing the potions master’s office. Snape was sitting behind his desk,
a quill in his hand.
“Come in, Mr Potter.” He said. “And sit down.” He pointed to a chair on the
other side of the desk.
“Yes, sir.”
Harry shut the door and walked inside, watching his professor nervously. When
Snape didn’t look up from his writing, Harry sat down, shuffling his feet.
Snape kept scribbling rather furiously, obviously too occupied to pay any
attention to Harry. Harry didn’t mind, he was in no hurry to have his thoughts
and memories invaded by the man.
 
After a while, Harry started to observe Snape, paying attention to every little
detail. Snape’s face was not what one would call handsome. He had rather harsh
features, sharp cheekbones, heavy eyebrows and a prominent nose that was a
little crooked. It looked like it had been broken once and not healed properly.
His eyes were very dark and though they were now downcast, Harry knew they
could pierce him with a stare like no others.
Snape’s lips were quite thin and pursed in concentration and Harry wondered
what would they look like curled up in a smile. The potions master’s black hair
hung around his head in loose strands, looking more fine than greasy, Harry
noticed.
Harry’s eyes moved down to examine Snape’s hands. They were quite large yet the
long, thin fingers made them look elegant. Holding the quill gracefully,
Snape’s hand resembled that of an artist, holding a brush and painting a
masterpiece in sure, precise strokes.
Harry realized the quill had stopped moving and looked up. Snape was watching
him with an intense stare, his eyebrows a little furrowed.
 
“Mr Potter.” He spoke suddenly, laying the quill down and steepling his
fingers. “I trust you are prepared for today’s lesson. As you are already aware
from your previous attempts, you must empty yourself of all emotion and make an
actual effort to keep me from penetrating your mind.”
Harry gulped and nodded, already worried he was going to fail.
“Very well, prepare yourself!” Snape pointed his wand at Harry and before he
could even blink, Snape cast the spell. “Legilimens.”
Harry immediately felt a foreign presence in his mind, gliding through his
thoughts with ease. Images changing quickly, Harry hardly registered which
memories was Snape viewing. Before he could even try to push him out, Snape has
already left his mind.
The professor was glaring daggers, still pointing his wand at Harry. “Mr
Potter, which part of clear your mind and attempt to prevent me from
penetrating it do you not understand?”
“I… uh… I wasn’t ready, yet. Sir.” Muttered Harry, hoping his next try would be
more successful.
His lip curling into a sneer, Snape lowered the wand holding hand. “Very well,
Mr Potter. This is the last time I will warn you before I cast the spell.
Prepare yourself!”
He waited for a moment and when Harry nodded his head, the potions master cast
again. “Legilimens!”
 
The foreign presence was back in Harry’s mind and Snape now took his time to
view the memories in greater detail. Harry tried to push him out but was
momentarily distracted by the images in his head.
Harry’s first time on a broom, first time he caught the snitch, the first
Weasley sweater he received from Ron’s mum, the first time he called Ron and
Hermione his best friends… these were some of Harry’s innocent, happy memories
and he couldn’t help but feel a little nostalgic.
Harry winced when he felt a sharp tug as the potions master’s presence withdrew
from his mind.
“Potter! You are not trying at all!” Hissed Snape, his teeth bare in a full-on
sneer. “Again! Legilimens!”
 
He attacked Harry’s mind with vengeance now, reminding Harry of the occlumency
lessons from last year. Digging through the teen’s less pleasant memories, he
was obviously after something.
Harry saw himself running from Aunt Marge’s dogs, hiding from Dudley and his
gang, he saw uncle Vernon slapping him and throwing him inside his cupboard…
Really trying to push Snape out of his head, he imagined shoving the potions
master with all his strength. It didn’t work.
The images kept coming, each more distressing than the last. Ginny, lying
almost dead in the Chamber of Secrets, Arthur Weasley, almost dying after being
attacked by Voldemort’s snake, Cedric, killed by Wormtail at the cemetery…
Harry wasn’t aware he was screaming now, begging Snape to stop. “Nooo, please,
no! Stop it, please!”
At last, Snape had found what he was looking for. An image of Sirius, falling
through the Veil. Snape was reviewing the memory, again and again, making Harry
cry out in despair with each repeat.
 
At long last, Harry felt Snape’s presence leave his mind. He found himself
kneeling on the floor, the chair he had been sitting in knocked over and pushed
to the side. He was sobbing, tears running down his face after he was forced to
relive his worst memory at least twenty times.
Snape was watching him with a disgusted sneer, his expression frighteningly
similar to the one he wore just before he shoved Harry into a wall. He stood
from his chair and prowled towards Harry, his voice menacing.
“You are wasting my time, Potter! Your mind is a jumble of thoughts, there is
no order whatsoever! You have not been practising!” He was coming closer now,
towering over still kneeling Harry.
 
Harry felt the same like he had at the beginning of summer, with all the
horrible memories still fresh in his mind. He was feeling raw, bleeding on the
inside, mourning the death of a man who genuinely loved him and regarded him as
his own son.
Snape was not finished yet. “If you don’t learn how to shield your mind, the
Dark Lord will rip it to pieces! You are still the same fool who lets his
emotions get the better of himself! Just like Black, rushing into danger
without a thought of the consequences!”
Harry couldn’t stand the verbal attack anymore, anger bubbling up inside him.
At last, he exploded and started shouting. “I don’t know how to shield my mind,
you never explained it to me! You never told me how to clear my mind, how to
get rid of my emotions! I would gladly get rid of them, I don’t want to feel
all this pain! But I don’t know how!” New tears were streaming down his face
but he didn’t even notice.
 
Snape looked murderous, clenching his fists as if he wanted to strangle Harry.
“Don’t you dare blame me for your failures, Potter! You are nothing but a lazy
brat!”
He took a step closer and Harry got suddenly scared Snape was really going to
hurt him. The teen scrambled backwards, falling on his bum and trying to scoot
away from the furious potions master. This appeared to have angered the man
even more and he took another step to follow.
“Potter! Don’t…” He barked at Harry but suddenly stopped, doubling over.
 
Harry watched wide-eyed as Snape’s face contorted with pain, his arms folded
across his stomach, clutching at his sides. He staggered backwards, colliding
with his desk and ending up on his side, half-lying and half-standing.
“Professor?” Harry asked, getting up from the floor and slowly walking towards
the potions master. “Are you alright?”
Snape’s eyes were clenched shut, his face distorted into a grimace of pain and
his teeth grinding together as if he was trying to prevent himself from
screaming.
Harry wanted to help him, already forgetting Snape was being nasty to him just
a moment ago, but he had no idea what to do. “Sir? Should I get someone? Or do
you need a potion?”
The man wasn’t responding to Harry at all. Sweat was beginning to pour down his
face, making the long hair stick to his cheeks.
Harry had just decided to get some help when the door opened, revealing the
headmaster.
 
“Professor! Professor Snape suddenly collapsed!” Harry cried out, pointing at
the potions master. Dumbledore looked around the office, gazing at the upturned
chair thoughtfully.
He entered the room, stopping at Harry and putting a hand on his shoulder.
“Harry, are you unharmed?” He asked, peering into the teen's eyes.
Harry looked at him confused. Over there was Snape, clearly in pain, and the
headmaster was asking Harry if he was unharmed?
“I’m fine, sir.” He said. “But professor Snape…”
Dumbledore interrupted him with a wave of his hand. “Professor Snape will be
alright. I know precisely what’s wrong with him.” He put an arm around Harry’s
shoulder and walked him slowly to the door. “Your lesson is over for today,
Harry. Return to your dormitory. And no detours, please, hmm?”
Harry watched him bewildered but nodded in agreement when the headmaster
clearly waited for his answer.
 
“Sir?” Harry turned at the door.
“Yes, Harry?”
“What is wrong with professor Snape?” Harry asked, his eyes not leaving the
potions master slumped over his desk.
Dumbledore’s piercing blue eyes regarded Harry thoughtfully. “That is a very
personal question, Harry. Perhaps you should ask professor Snape himself when
he’s feeling better.”
Harry nodded, knowing better than to pry into his professor’s privacy.
Especially after he already breached it once by invading his pensieve.
“Good night, professor.” He said and turned to leave.
“Good night, Harry. Sweet dreams.” Professor Dumbledore answered, closing the
door behind him.
 
Harry was standing in the cold, dark dungeon’s corridor, staring at Snape’s
door. He was utterly confused.
What had just happened? What was wrong with Snape? Why was the headmaster
acting as if he was more worried about Harry than about the potions master who
was clearly in pain?
And why was Harry worried about Snape? Seeing the man suffer so much made Harry
feel terrible. He would rather stand the potions master’s nasty comments than
watch him in pain again. And wasn’t that weird? Harry didn’t understand his own
feelings anymore.
 
He pressed his ear against the door, holding his breath. He heard footsteps,
going away from him and the sound of furniture being moved. Harry strained his
ears and heard the headmaster speak, just before the silencing spell hit the
door.
“Oh, Severus, Severus. What have you done now?”
 
 
 
***** Chapter 12 *****
 
 
Agony.
His whole body was on fire, his insides drenched in acid. His body was being
ripped open by ravenous beasts, he was being hit by a thousand of crucios at
once.
There was only one word that could describe how he felt. Agony.
He couldn’t see or hear anything, all he knew was this overwhelming and
debilitating pain. His mind had shut down, his body lost in torment.
In his tortured state, Severus wasn’t sure how much time had passed. It could
have been minutes, it could have been hours. It could have been days for all he
knew.
 
Just as suddenly as the pain came, it had stopped. Severus found himself
slumped over his desk, his whole body aching in the aftermath.
Albus was sitting in the chair that Potter had occupied during the occlumency
lesson, watching him curiously.
Using the desk to support his unsteady legs, Severus walked around it and sat
down on his chair. “Where is Potter?” He asked, his voice hoarse and quiet.
“I send him back to his dormitory.” Albus paused, then added with a twinkle in
his eyes. “He was worried about you.”
Severus scoffed. “I find that hard to believe.”
Grimacing, he opened a desk drawer and took out a vial of a mild pain potion he
sometimes used for headaches. Downing the potion, he immediately felt the sore
feeling in his muscles ease up.
 
“Well?” He asked when the headmaster didn’t speak.
“Well what, my boy?” Albus was gazing at him patiently as if humouring a child.
Severus scowled. “Aren’t you going to gloat? Your spell worked.”
Albus shook his head a little, not trying to hide his disappointment. “Of
course not, my boy. I hate to see you in pain. But I’m indeed relieved the
guarding spell works correctly. I have been alerted to your distress as I was
the caster of the spell, though I must confess I didn’t expect for its effect
to last that long. It looked very unpleasant.”
Closing his eyes and pressing two fingers against his temple, Severus said.
“The pain was… excruciating. Unstoppable. Neverending…” He leaned back in his
chair and continued after a slight pause. “The occlumency lesson was a
disaster. Potter was not prepared, he has no mind defences whatsoever! It is no
wonder the Dark Lord was able to manipulate his memories without difficulty.”
Furrowing his eyebrows, Severus scoffed. “The brat was not even trying to keep
me out, his mind is open to anyone with the least bit of skill in legilimency!”
Albus was gazing at him with a serene expression on his face, not making any
attempt to interrupt Severus’s ramblings.
“And he had the audacity to blame me for his deficiency! Perhaps if he spent
less time gallivanting with Weasley and invested more time in his studies, he
might be more successful! But no, Mr Potter would rather entertain his paramour
than prepare for his lessons.” Growling out his frustrations, Severus was
working himself up into a right fit.
“And when I endeavoured to give him more incentive to keep me out of his mind,
he had the nerve to shout at me!” Severus looked up when he noticed Albus had
stood up and was coming closer.
 
The headmaster put a hand on Severus’s shoulder, peering intently into his
eyes. “Severus.” He spoke in a serious voice. “The spell has activated for a
reason. Admit it, you were losing control.”
“I was not…” Severus protested but stopped when Albus raised his eyebrows.
“Weren’t you?”
Breaking the eye-contact with Albus, Severus’s forehead furrowed in deep
thought.
“It was not my intention to harm the boy. To try to hurt him. I was not aware
of being that near of losing control. I don’t believe I would have harmed him
physically… again.”
Squeezing his shoulder in compassion, Albus said. “The spell clearly reacted
before any potentially harmful situation could occur. It is tied to your
subconscious as well as conscious thoughts, so perhaps it recognized a similar
pattern that resulted in a violent behaviour in the past.”
 
Severus tried to recall what had happened right before the pain rendered him
useless. Entering the boy’s mind had been ridiculously easy, there were no
barriers to speak of. Severus had barely surveyed Potter’s thoughts during his
first attempt, but he had given the boy ample time to resist him the second
time. Yet Potter’s feeble attempt to eject Severus from his mind was laughable.
Browsing the boy’s unpleasant memories, Severus was hoping to provoke him to
try harder, but his effort had only resulted in Potter’s screaming. Even the
memory of Black falling through the Veil wasn’t big enough incentive for the
boy. Severus had replayed the memory over and over again yet Potter couldn’t
keep him out.
When Severus finally released the boy’s mind, he was furious. He had expected
Potter would try at least a little bit more than the previous year but it was
all in vain. The boy had clearly no idea how to clear his mind and how to set
up at least the basic mind barriers.
Severus had also been furious with himself because he had hoped their changing
relationship would inspire Potter to take his lessons seriously. Clearly,
Potter couldn’t be bothered…
 
Then he saw the boy, sobbing on the floor, and an old memory had been
triggered.
Severus, fallen down after his father hit him repeatedly, trying to crawl away
to avoid further blows. His father, yelling at him and calling him a sissy
because a real man never cries…
When Potter fearfully scrambled away from him, Severus had snapped. He was NOT
like his father! He tried to stop Potter, tried to tell him not to fear him but
at that instant, he’d been hit by the most overwhelming pain.
 
“The guarding spell had reacted to the recollection of my father’s abuse. I was
angered that Potter had acted precisely the same way I did when I was a child.”
Said Severus after being lost in thought for a long time.
“Hmm.” Hummed Albus thoughtfully. “He was afraid of you?”
Severus exhaled noisily through his nose. “Yes. He fell on the floor while I
performed legilimency on him, he was rather… distressed. When I moved closer,
he backed away from me and I admit I have reacted poorly.” Looking up at Albus,
Severus frowned.
“What did Potter tell you has happened here?”
The headmaster peered at him with a gentle smile. “Harry had informed me you
had suddenly collapsed.”
“He didn’t say anything else? About the lesson itself?”
“No, he only wanted to know what was wrong with you. I could see he was
worried.” Responded Albus, his eyes twinkling merrily.
 
“Worried.” Muttered Severus under his breath. The boy was beyond infuriating.
One moment he drives Severus mad with neglecting his lesson preparation, the
next he confuses the hell out of him by being so absurdly noble and selfless.
What was it about Potter that made him so utterly fascinating to Severus?
Albus patted Severus on the shoulder. “Perhaps you should try a different
approach to teaching occlumency, my boy. Don’t forget that not many people have
a natural talent for this art form like you do. It is infinitely more difficult
for someone who listens to his heart first and mind second, like Harry. He
needs to learn how to reign in his emotions before he can even attempt to
shield them and close them off.”
“Perhaps you are right.” Replied Severus thoughtfully.
 
Perhaps he had been going about this the wrong way. Attempting to provoke
Potter to close his mind by invading his memories clearly didn’t work. Potter
was too short-tempered, too Gryffindor to react positively to such method.
Severus had always thought Potter was just too lazy, not willing to even make
an effort. But perhaps he was mistaken about this as well.
Yesterday’s Potions lesson was certainly pointing him in a different direction.
He recalled the boy’s eyes, sparkling happily when he impressed Severus with
his answers. He had definitely appreciated Severus’s approval, welcomed it
even.
His face was so easy to read and Severus had always scoffed at people who wore
their hearts on their sleeves. Yet Potter’s reactions were extremely
interesting, especially when he reacted to Severus in a positive manner.
He remembered the boy’s green eyes widen in a delighted surprise when he
awarded him points. Severus smirked to himself. Watching Potter’s pretty pink
mouth pop open in wonder has been the highlight of Severus’s day.
 
Another pat on his shoulder interrupted the potions master’s musings. “I’ll
leave you to your thoughts, my boy. Please remember that Harry is not unwilling
to learn, he just needs a different approach. He can learn a lot from you,
Severus. And it is extremely important that he learns it well.” Gazing at him
intently from above the half-moon spectacles, Albus suddenly smiled. “You can
learn from him as well. Perhaps he can help you explore the hidden corners of
your heart.”
Severus stared at him incredulously. “You have lost your marbles, Albus.”
The headmaster just chuckled and walked towards the door. “Good night, my boy.”
“Good night, Albus.”
 
When the door closed behind the headmaster, Severus slumped back in his chair.
Closing his eyes, he rubbed his temples with both hands, suddenly feeling
exhausted.
Tonight hasn’t gone as planned yet Severus has come to an important conclusion.
He would have to consider a different technique to teach Potter occlumency,
perhaps start by walking him through the basic relaxation and meditation
exercises.
Once Potter has mastered the clearing of his mind, they could move to shielding
it. Perhaps Severus could help the boy set up the barriers in his mind, but
that technique required establishing a high level of trust between the teacher
and the student. Sharing another’s mind, even temporarily, was a remarkably
intimate experience.
 
Severus stood from his chair, stretching his limbs and registering the
lingering soreness. Albus’s guarding spell had definitely been effective, he
couldn’t have harmed Potter even if he wanted to.
But he didn’t wish to see him hurt. Seeing those green eyes filled with tears
had had a peculiar effect on Severus, twisting his insides in a rather painful
way.
Severus locked his office door and walked to his private chambers. Feeling too
tired to even contemplate reading the newest potions journal, he stripped out
of his clothes, pulled on his nightshirt and after a brief visit to the
bathroom he climbed into bed.
Relaxing his body, he started to sort through his memories of that day,
examining them carefully. Once they were all organized to his liking, Severus
proceeded to clear his mind and strengthen the occlumency shields.
Only then did he let himself slowly drift to sleep.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Up in the Gryffindor Tower of the Hogwarts castle, Harry was twisting and
turning on his bed, caught up in a nightmare.
 
He was running, as fast as he could, racing towards the screams that sounded
through the forest. Harry avoided the trees, jumping over the fallen branches
and ran towards a clearing he could already see in the distance.
Just as he reached the open area, a cold, hissing voice greeted him. ‘You are
too late, Harry Potter. You can’t save him anymore. You have failed.’
Voldemort was standing in front of Harry, shielding his view of the person
lying on the ground.
Suddenly Voldemort’s form shifted into uncle Vernon, angry and ruddy-faced,
waving his clenched fists around and hitting Harry painfully. ‘I have warned
you, boy! I will not tolerate your freakishness! I will end you just like the
other one!’
Harry fell down next to the other body, suddenly staring into the empty eyes of
Severus Snape. The potions master’s face was contorted in a painful grimace,
his mouth a little bit open, but his eyes, his eyes were dead. He was dead.
‘No.’ Whispered Harry. ‘No, it can’t be. No! No! Nooo!’
 
“Nooo!!” Harry woke up with a scream, sitting up rapidly. He was panting,
trying to catch his breath as he realized he just had a nightmare.
He could still recall Snape’s face, twisted in pain, just like it had been
earlier that evening. Harry had felt so powerless, being unable to help him.
Lying back down, Harry was afraid to close his eyes, afraid he’d see the image
of Snape’s dead face again.
Staring at the canopy of his four-poster bed, he was thinking about his
professor. He was worried about Snape, what if Dumbledore wasn’t able to help
him?
What if he’s still lying there, doubled over in pain? What if he’d die and
Harry would never see him again?
His heart twinged painfully at that last thought.
 
Morning couldn’t come fast enough for Harry. He would not find any peace until
he saw Snape again and reassured himself with his own eyes that his professor
was alright.
Harry sighed when the tempus charm showed 2:45 a. m. This was going to be a
long night.
 
 
 
***** Chapter 13 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
The next morning, Harry was showered and dressed even before the other boys
started to stir in their beds.
Grabbing his backpack, he hurried downstairs. The common room was empty but the
fireplaces were already lit up, courtesy of the house-elves.
Harry considered waiting for Hermione, as she was usually up quite early, but
he felt too restless to sit around. The sooner he’d get to the Great Hall, the
sooner he could make sure Snape was alright.
 
Hurrying through the castle, descending the stairs at a neck-breaking speed, he
was unsurprisingly the first one to enter the Great Hall that morning. A house-
elf cleaning the big fireplace squeaked in alarm, snapping its fingers to light
the fire and vanishing with a loud pop.
Harry sat down at his usual place, waiting for the food to appear. Exactly at
7:30 a. m. the tables filled with bowls of porridge, mountains of toasts and
different platters loaded with eggs, bacon, sausages, kippers and rolls.
Various teapots were placed at each house table, as well as pitchers of milk
and pumpkin juice.
 
Harry took a sip of pumpkin juice, too nervous to eat anything. He kept
glancing at the door behind the head table, which the teachers usually used to
enter the Great Hall.
Professors McGonagall and Sprout arrived first, closely followed by professor
Dumbledore. The headmaster smiled and waved at Harry before sitting down to his
breakfast.
The Great Hall was slowly filling with students, some of them greeting Harry as
they passed by him.
Hermione has appeared as well, sitting down next to the green-eyed teen. “Good
morning, Harry. You’re up early!” She smiled at him.
“Morning, Mione. I couldn’t sleep, I was… uh… hungry.” Answered Harry, still
staring at the teachers’ door.
The girl pointedly looked at his empty plate. “Then why aren’t you eating
anything?”
“Hmm?”
Hermione took his chin and turned his head towards her. “Look at me, Harry.
What is going on?”
“Umm, I’m waiting for Snape.” Said Harry, his eyes glancing back at the head
table.
“Why?” Asked the bushy-haired girl curiously.
“I want to know he’s ok, he collapsed yesterday during my ‘special lesson’.”
Harry answered, whispering the last part.
Hermione’s eyes went wide. “Oh no! What happened?”
“I’m not sure, he was suddenly in a lot of pain. Professor Dumbledore showed up
and said he was going to be alright but Snape was barely standing when I left.”
Explained Harry in a hushed voice, not wanting anybody to overhear him.
Hermione peered at the head table as well, clearly watching the headmaster.
“Professor Dumbledore doesn’t look worried. I’m sure professor Snape is fine.”
Harry shook his head in disagreement. “Then why isn’t he at breakfast?
Shouldn’t he be here by now?”
“Not necessarily. Teachers are allowed to take some meals in their own
quarters. He might be busy with something, maybe he’s brewing and can’t leave
the potion unattended.” Said Hermione in her lecturing voice.
“Maybe…” Said Harry, not really believing her theory. He just wished Snape
would show up, he didn’t like this uncertainty.
 
Luck was clearly not on Harry’s side that day.
After Ron joined them at breakfast and Harry filled him in on his occlumency
lesson with Snape, the trio has gone to their classes.
They spent the morning in the greenhouses at Herbology, thanking Merlin Neville
was in their group and knew how to handle the Venomous Tentacula. Ron was
swearing the whole time as the plant took a liking to his red hair and kept
trying to grab it with its mobile vines.
After Herbology they hurried to the Gryffindor Tower to clean themselves up and
then went to lunch, which Harry spent barely eating, staring at the head table.
Snape never showed up, proving, in Harry’s mind, his theory that the potions
master was gravely ill.
When Hermione left to her Ancient Runes class, Ron has accompanied Harry to the
hospital wing for his checkup.
Madame Pomfrey was pleased with Harry’s recovery but still refused to give him
the permission to fly. Ron was grumbling under his breath that the Quidditch
tryouts were starting on Saturday but Madam Pomfrey was adamant on keeping
Harry grounded.
Harry wasn’t paying much attention to either of them, registering only the fact
that the hospital wing was empty and thus if Snape was ill, he was probably in
his quarters.
 
The boys spent the rest of the afternoon in the library doing their homework.
Focusing on his Charms essay, Harry was able to distract himself for a few
hours, only to go back to fretting as soon as they arrived at dinner.
Not having eaten properly the whole day, Harry was ravenous and practically
devoured the shepherd’s pie that was put in front of him. When Snape again
didn’t show up, Harry was so worried he was ready to march down to the dungeons
and bang on the potions master’s door.
“Relax, mate, you’re going to hurt yourself if you keep this up.” Said Ron
suddenly, taking a knife out of Harry’s hand.
Harry hasn’t even noticed he was tapping the knife against his leg in
agitation. He looked at his best friend with a small smile. “Sorry.”
“What’s the matter, Harry? You’re not still worried about Snape, are you?”
Asked Hermione.
“He hasn’t shown up the whole day! What if something’s wrong with him?” Harry
was biting his lip anxiously.
“We are not so lucky.” Said Ron with his mouth full of chocolate cake. “The git
will be taking points from us even at graduation.”
“Ron, for Merlin’s sake, don’t talk with your mouth full!” Exclaimed Hermione
with a disgusted look on her face.
Harry has tuned them out as they started to bicker, grabbing a banana from the
fruit bowl when they all got up to leave. Hermione ran off to the library again
and Harry and Ron followed her out at a slower pace.
 
They were accosted by Malfoy, flanked by his two goons Crabbe and Goyle, just
outside of the Great Hall.
“Well, if it isn’t Potty and his boyfriend. What’s with the banana, Potter?
Won’t Weasel let you practise on him?” Malfoy sneered at Harry.
Harry watched him confused. “What?”
Malfoy smirked and leaned closer, mock-whispering. “Blowjobs, Potty. Sucking
cock.”
Harry felt himself blush furiously, completely embarrassed and Malfoy howled
with laughter. Suddenly Ron put his arm around Harry’s shoulder, pulling him
closer.
“I’ll have you know Harry is excellent in everything, he doesn’t need to
practise. You’re just jealous he is mine!”
Malfoy stopped laughing abruptly and sneered at Ron. Right at that moment, a
cold voice behind Harry and Ron interrupted whatever had Malfoy wanted to say.
 
“Excuse me.”
Harry turned his head quickly, his face lighting up with a smile. “Professor
Snape!”
Snape regarded him with cold eyes, his face an emotionless mask. “Mr Potter.
You and your paramour,” He sneered at Ron, “are blocking the hallway.”
Harry’s smile fell from his face and he stuttered. “I…I…”
He didn’t even know what he wanted to say. He was extremely unsettled. The
whole day he was hoping to see Snape and he felt immensely relieved that his
professor was alright. But now he also felt strangely hurt that Snape treated
him so hatefully again.
Ron pulled Harry closer to his chest, turning them both to leave enough room in
the hallway for Snape to pass.
“Sorry, sir.” Said Ron, not sounding sorry at all.
The potions master glared at him coldly before stalking past them with his
black robes billowing behind him. Harry watched him leave, an unpleasant
feeling twisting in his stomach.
“Let’s go.” He said to Ron, sounding sad even to himself.
 
Ignoring Malfoy and his bodyguards, the two boys left the narrow corridor and
started to climb the staircases towards the Gryffindor Tower.
“Don’t worry about the ferret face, Harry.” Said Ron after a while.
Harry looked up at his friend with a gentle smile. “I’m not, Ron. But thanks
for sticking up for me, I appreciate it. I don’t think Malfoy expected that.”
He chuckled quietly.
“No problem, mate. That’s what brothers are for.” The redhead pulled Harry
closer, his arm still around the smaller teen’s shoulders, and ruffled his
already messy hair.
“Hey!” Laughed Harry and patted his hair down, a wide grin on his face and a
bubble of affection for his best friend swelling up inside him. He was grateful
Ron always knew how to cheer him up, even if the redhead probably didn’t
realize Harry was not upset because of Malfoy but for a whole other reason.
Not wanting to think about Snape anymore, Harry looked at the banana he still
carried in his hand.
“I’ll never be able to eat these anymore without thinking about blowjobs.” He
looked at Ron with an embarrassed smile.
Ron laughed, his blue eyes twinkling in a way that reminded Harry of
Dumbledore. “You can always use them for practice, just like Malfoy suggested.”
He raised his eyebrows, trying to keep a straight face.
“Umm, how would I even know if I’m doing it right?” Harry knew he was blushing
again, his whole face felt incredibly hot.
“My guess would be, if you see teeth marks, you’re doing it wrong.” Ron was
snickering like crazy when Harry half-heartedly elbowed him in the stomach, an
embarrassed smile on his face.
“Right. I’ll just have an apple next time.” He said, preceding Ron to climb
through the portrait hole to the Gryffindor common room.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Severus was having a bad day.
 
First, he overslept and missed breakfast. Usually, he woke up promptly at 6:30
a. m., even before his alarm would go off. Or he would already be awake, not
having gone to sleep at all.
Today, he hadn’t even heard the alarm and that was beyond peculiar as he was
normally a very light sleeper.
 
The morning classes were a torture. He’s only had time to drink one cup of
coffee and that was not nearly enough to prepare Severus for dealing with the
dunderheads all day.
During his last morning class, a fourth year Ravenclaw panicked when her potion
turned the wrong colour, throwing in an extra handful of chopped mandrake root.
The resulting explosion has covered half the classroom with a purple slime.
Suffice to say, Severus has spent his lunch hour in the shower, trying to wash
the slime out of his hair.
After a quick plate of sandwiches in his office, he hurried to the afternoon
classes, his mood exceedingly worse.
Severus’s bad day has resulted in a record loss of points for all the houses,
in total sixty-five from Gryffindor, forty-five from both Hufflepuff and
Ravenclaw and even fifteen from Slytherin, when a first year didn’t pay
attention and almost stirred the cauldron with his wand.
 
After the classes ended, Severus had decided to lock himself in his quarters,
not wanting to see another living soul for at least twelve hours.
He had a house-elf bring him dinner and was just about to sit in his favourite
armchair with a glass of scotch when he received a message from Albus,
informing him about an emergency staff meeting in half an hour.
Stalking out of his rooms furiously, he took a shortcut that brought him to a
narrow hallway outside of the Great Hall. He was just about to step out of the
shadows when he recognized Potter and Weasley, standing very close to each
other.
Suddenly Weasley put his arm around Potter’s shoulders and he heard him say.
“I’ll have you know Harry is excellent in everything, he doesn’t need to
practise. You’re just jealous he is mine!”
 
Severus observed them quietly, a strange emotion tightening his stomach when
his eyes lingered on the arm around the messy-haired teen’s shoulders. Severus
recalled the evening in the hospital wing, how pleasant it had felt to hold the
boy around his slender waist, to feel his heartbeat under the palm of Severus’s
hand when he touched the boy’s chest…
 
Shaking himself from his reveries, Severus stepped into the corridor, his face
schooled into an emotionless mask. “Excuse me.”
Potter turned his head and his face lit up with the most beautiful smile.
“Professor Snape!”
Only years of rigorous occlumency practice had stopped Severus from outwardly
reacting, though his stomach fluttered nervously. Severus berated himself for
feeling like a hormonal teenager, making sure his cold mask of indifference was
firmly in place.
“Mr Potter, you and your paramour are blocking the hallway.” He said, sneering
at Weasley who had the nerve to pull the smaller teen closer. It was completely
inappropriate, displaying this kind of affection in public.
Severus glanced at Potter and saw the smile vanish from his face, only to be
replaced with a kicked puppy look, the green eyes large and round, staring at
Severus in confusion.
Severus’s insides twisted painfully at that look and he was gripped by a sudden
urge to hug the boy. Which was utterly ridiculous because Severus never hugged
people, ever!
He reinforced his occlumency shields, trying to push away the feeling of guilt
for making Potter look so upset. Glaring at Weasley murderously, he stalked
away from them, suddenly wishing he was allowed to hex students. His mouth
twisted into a malicious smirk as he imagined the spells he would use on the
Weasley boy.
 
Arriving at the staff room, Severus’s day went officially from bad to worse.
The emergency staff meeting turned out to be an impromptu birthday party for
Rolanda Hooch. Albus stood in the middle of the room, handing out party hats
and little whistles, throwing a handful of confetti over each person’s head.
Severus absolutely refused to wear a party hat and warned Albus to keep the
whistles away from him unless the headmaster wished to have them inserted where
the sun doesn’t shine.
During the whole party, Severus stood in the corner of the staff room, his arms
folded across his chest. As soon as Albus waved the door open (which he locked
right after Severus has arrived), the potions master stalked out of the room as
if it was on fire.
 
Finally back at his quarters, he took off the long robe and sank into his
armchair. Slowly sipping the scotch he closed his eyes and leaned back, ready
for this horrid day to end.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you all once again for reading, commenting and kudos! ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 14 *****
Chapter Notes
     After having a bit of a writing crisis, I wrote the chapter, read it
     and found out I completely hate it.
     So I had to delete most of it and rewrite the rest and it came out
     like this.
     It's a short chapter but the next one will be extra long :)
     Ok, enough of my ramblings and on with the story...
 
 
 
On Friday afternoon, Harry and Ron hurried to the Potions class, having spent
their free period after lunch outside.
Harry was feeling apprehensive about seeing Snape again, he had tried very hard
not to think about the potions master since their encounter in the hallway.
However, his subconscious has clearly not received the message and Harry had
spent every night dreaming about the lover that resembled the potions master so
much.
 
Panting heavily from running, the boys reached the classroom just in time.
“Bollocks, we have to take the front table again.” Whispered Ron with a grimace
on his face.
“Yeah, come on.” Harry pulled his best friend along, smiling at Hermione who
was sitting in the second row.
Snape was watching them from behind his desk, waving his wand to close the door
as soon as they sat down.
“As you are all aware, this is a N.E.W.T. level class and as such, you will
dedicate your time and effort to brewing the most complex potions.” Said the
professor.
“Starting next Monday, you will spend the coming weeks brewing the Polyjuice
Potion. Your partner will be the person sitting next to you, there will be no
changing tables for the rest of the year.”
 
Harry looked around but nobody seemed to be protesting this new arrangement.
Well, apart from Ron, who muttered under his breath. “Great, we’re stuck
sitting in front of the greasy git for the rest of the year.”
“Shh.” Shushed him Harry when he saw Snape glaring at the redhead.
“Take out your parchments and quills and put away the books. I want at least a
2-foot essay on the Polyjuice Potion. Describe the brewing process, the use and
effects of the potion, the possible dangers and so on. You may begin.” Snape
stood up and started walking around the room, making sure nobody was cheating.
 
Harry was of course quite familiar with the Polyjuice Potion, having had brewed
it together with Hermione and Ron in their second year. He could still remember
the horrible taste and the weird sensations when he started to change.
Pulling the parchment closer, he began to work on his essay. Ron was writing
furiously as well, probably describing the foul taste of Vincent Crabbe in
vivid colours.
 
Harry was so immersed in his writing, he at first didn’t notice the shadow that
had fallen over his desk. When something tickled his cheek, he brushed it away,
only to feel it again.
Glancing to the side, he froze. Snape was standing behind his chair, a bit to
the left, reading Harry’s parchment over his shoulder. He was leaning in
slightly, his long hair tickling Harry’s cheek.
Not daring to move, Harry sat completely still. Thousands of butterflies were
fluttering in his stomach and his arms were covered in goosebumps. Harry felt
light-headed, almost dizzy and he realized he was holding his breath.
Breathing in deeply through his nose, he became aware of an unknown scent. It
reminded him of dark chocolate, mixed with oranges and chilli. Slightly spicy
yet sweet at the same time. It was Snape, Harry realized. He wanted to turn his
head and bury it in the potions master’s robes.
“Very good, Mr Potter. Continue.” Snape suddenly muttered into Harry’s ear, his
hot breath making the teen shiver.
Harry resumed writing with great difficulty, forcing himself to focus on his
paper rather than on Snape who was still standing very close to Harry’s chair.
Harry’s hormones were running completely wild. The close proximity of the man,
his intoxicating scent, the soft brushes of his hair on Harry’s cheek, the
velvet voice whispering in his ear…
Harry pressed his legs together and was thankful the loose school robe hid the
evidence of his arousal.
At long last, Snape moved away, walking back to his desk. Harry suddenly felt
cold, missing the potions master’s close presence already.
 
Twenty minutes before the double period ended, Snape started calling out their
names and quickly reading through their essays. Once done, they were dismissed
and allowed to leave.
Of course, Snape started with the students at the back and soon only Ron and
Harry were left.
“Mr Weasley.” Snape called the redhead, watching him with narrowed eyes.
Slashing through the parchment with his red-inked quill, Snape glared at Ron.
“Mr Weasley, though you seem to have a basic understanding of the Polyjuice
Potion, its brewing is a complex process, not to be taken lightly. I want this
rewritten before your Monday lesson, with a complete list of ingredients and a
precise description of the preparation that is needed before the brewing can
commence.”
With a wave of his hand, he dismissed the redhead, not paying him any more
attention.
“Mr Potter.” He said, observing Harry intently.
 
Fidgeting with his robe sleeves, Harry stood next to the potions master’s desk
after he handed him the essay.
He watched the long, elegant fingers of Snape’s left hand softly caress the
edge of the parchment, making Harry wish he could feel the feather-light
touches on his skin.
Slightly bend over like this, Snape’s long hair fell into his face, partly
covering the cheeks. From the side, his substantial nose was extra noticeable,
yet Harry found the prominent feature strangely attractive.
Despite not being classically handsome, the potions master had a certain
presence about him that drew Harry in.
He startled when Snape finished writing his notes and handed Harry the
parchment.
Peering into the teen’s eyes, the potions master asked. “I trust you are still
coming to your occlumency lesson this evening?”
Harry blinked at him, surprised. “Umm, of course. Sir.”
“Good.” Snape nodded sharply but kept staring into Harry’s eyes, starting to
make him a bit nervous.
 
Harry couldn’t look away, suddenly feeling very vulnerable again. But just like
that time in the hospital wing, Snape’s demeanour towards Harry was neutral,
pleasant even.
The messy haired teen didn’t understand his professor at all, why was he
sometimes so spiteful only to act as if he wanted to be near Harry the next
time?
Harry was already dreading the occlumency lesson. He really hoped Snape would
not revert back to his nasty self, he liked this version of him much better.
 
Suddenly, Snape stood up. “You may leave now, Mr Potter. I’ll see you at eight
o’clock.”
Harry looked up at his professor and nodded, walking to his desk to get his
backpack. He could feel the potions master’s eyes on him the whole time, even
as he moved towards the door.
Snape followed Harry out of the classroom, locking it up behind him and turning
to leave.
He glanced at Harry one more time. “Mr Potter. Keep up the good work.”
Smiling shyly, Harry nodded, earning himself a small smirk from the potions
master, before the man stalked towards his office.
 
Harry watched him walk away and then pulled open his essay, curious to read
Snape’s notes. At the bottom of the parchment, Harry could see a small
paragraph written in Snape’s perfect handwriting.
 
Mr Potter,
your essay was exceedingly well written, the description of the brewing process
was accurate
and the explanation of the dangerous side-effect aptly illustrated.
Your interpretation of the changing process was interesting and the list of
ingredients complete.
All in all – Outstanding.
 
Harry has read the few sentences over and over again, his mouth stretching into
a goofy grin. He couldn’t believe he had received an Outstanding from Snape!
Touching the neat, slanted handwriting in awe, Harry slowly walked towards the
Great Hall.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Severus walked around the corner of the dungeons corridor, cast a
disillusionment charm on himself and returned to the hallway outside of the
Potions classroom.
Leaning against the wall, he quietly observed Potter. The boy was reading
Severus’s notes on his Potion’s essay, his face suddenly lighting up with the
most adorably silly smile.
Severus watched him with a little smile of his own, feeling extremely satisfied
he was able to inspire such a reaction from the green-eyed teen. He has
suddenly found himself craving the boy’s smiles and blushes, so innocent yet so
enticing at the same time.
He couldn’t help but keep thinking about Harry Potter who was slowly becoming
something of an obsession to Severus. He found himself wishing to know
everything about the boy and so he observed him closely, filing away every
piece of information he found.
 
And late at night, in the privacy of his own mind, he would allow himself to
dream for a while.
About the green eyes, watching him with desire. About the slender arms, pulling
him close as their bodies writhed together with passion.
About the pink lips, whispering the words of love…
 
 
 
***** Chapter 15 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
The Great Hall was already quite full when Harry finally arrived at dinner.
Walking along the Gryffindor table, he spotted his friends and went to sit down
next to Ron who saved him a seat.
“Hey mate, did the git hold you up till now? Do you have to rewrite your essay
as well? As if we didn’t have enough homework already.” Grumbled Ron, loading
his plate with roasted chicken.
Harry grinned goofily, leaning on the table and almost putting his hand in
mashed potatoes. “I got Outstanding!”
Hermione squealed and Ron looked at him wide-eyed, his mouth open in
astonishment.
“You got Outstanding.”
Harry nodded, still grinning.
“From Snape.” Harry nodded again happily.
“From the greasy git, the great bat of the dungeons, that Snape?” Ron looked as
if he was trying to solve a really difficult math problem.
“Of course that Snape, Ron. How many Snapes do you know?” Said Hermione,
rolling her eyes at the redhead and then excitedly grabbing Harry’s hand.
“That’s great, Harry! I told you studying would pay off. I’m so proud of you!”
“Thanks, Mione.” Harry patted her hand fondly, still grinning like a loon. He
couldn’t seem to be able to stop.
Putting some food on his plate, Harry tried to eat a little, even though he
didn’t feel hungry at all. He was both giddy from receiving an Outstanding from
Snape and nervous for his upcoming occlumency lesson.
 
Glancing at the head table, he saw Snape talking to the headmaster, both of
them suddenly turning to look at Harry. Dumbledore waved at him cheerfully and
Harry made a weird, half waving motion back before he realized he was holding a
knife.
Snape smirked at him, clearly amused and Harry turned back to his plate,
blushing.
What was it about the man that made Harry react to him so strongly? His cheeks
were burning and his stomach fluttered nervously again.
Hermione was watching him with a suspicious look in her eyes. “Are you ok,
Harry? You look like you have a fever.”
“I’m fine. Just a bit nervous for later, you know.” Harry answered, putting
down his fork.
“Oh, of course.” The bushy-haired girl nodded with understanding. “Maybe you
should talk to professor Dumbledore if your lesson doesn’t go well again.” She
said, sounded worried.
“Yeah, maybe.”
“Hey Harry, you’re coming to the tryouts tomorrow, right?” Asked Ron suddenly,
efficiently distracting Harry with Quidditch for the next half an hour.
 
Ten minutes to eight, Harry was once again in the familiar dungeon corridor,
staring at Snape’s office door. Before he could even knock, the potions master
was standing in the open doorway, carrying a couple of books.
“Ah, Mr Potter. So eager to study occlumency?” He raised an eyebrow at Harry.
“I can wait outside if I’m too early, sir.” Said Harry, feeling flustered.
He took a step back and not noticing one of his trainers got untied, he
stumbled. Swearing in his head, Harry berated himself. Why must he always act
like an idiot whenever Snape is near?
“That is quite alright, Mr Potter. Come with me.” Snape shut his office door
and headed further into the corridor.
Harry stared after him, baffled. Snape was going to his private quarters,
surely he didn’t want Harry to follow him?
“Today, if you please!” The potions master called out and Harry hurried after
him lest he’d anger the man again.
Snape held the door open for Harry and beckoned him inside.
“Come in, Mr Potter. Please, sit down.”
 
Harry walked into a cosy sitting room and looked around. A comfortable looking
dark brown sofa was facing the fireplace, flanked on each side by a cushy
armchair and a small coffee table in the middle of the seating area.
The rest of the room was dominated by bookshelves. Two walls were completely
covered with bookcases and filled with books. Hermione would have a field day
if she saw this, thought Harry fondly.
He sat down on the sofa, looking up at his professor curiously.
Snape was standing in front of the fireplace. “It has come to my attention that
you have difficulties with clearing your mind.” He said.
Harry nodded, thinking it was quite obvious after the last occlumency lesson.
“Therefore, before we resume any attempts to closing your mind to legilimency,
I will teach you how to organize your thoughts and let go of your emotions. We
will start with simple relaxation exercises and later move on to meditation. Do
you have any questions so far?” He asked, looking at Harry intently.
“No, sir.” Harry felt as if he stepped into an alternate universe again. He was
sitting in Snape’s living room, having a normal conversation with the man as if
they never hated each other in the first place.
Well, Harry certainly didn’t hate him anymore. If he was being completely
honest with himself, he’d admit he might have a teeny, tiny, minuscule crush on
the potions master. Okay, so maybe not so tiny. But nothing he couldn’t handle.
 
Then Snape started to unbutton his robes and Harry forgot how to breathe.
He was watching those elegant long fingers gliding downwards, opening each
button effortlessly. Harry’s mouth was parched and his imagination was running
a hundred miles a second, each scenario it came up with wilder than the other.
All of a sudden, he realized that Snape had been talking and was now watching
him with a raised eyebrow.
“Sorry?” Harry croaked, his voice hoarse.
Discarding his robes, Snape was now standing in front of Harry in black slacks,
white button-down shirt and a black suit vest. He looked absolutely
unbelievable. Tall and slim, not overly muscular yet giving an impression of
strength and power. Harry could just imagine those strong arms, holding him
close, that tall body covering his own and driving him wild with desire…
‘Focus Harry! Get your mind out of the gutter!’ Harry forced himself to listen
as Snape started talking again.
“As I was saying, there are many different relaxation techniques but we will
start with the simplest one. The headmaster has kindly arranged a special room
for our needs that has been added to my quarters. Come along then.” Snape
walked to a door on the other side of the room, hidden behind one of the
bookcases.
Feeling dazed, Harry stood up and followed the potions master into a narrow
corridor. After a short walk, Snape opened another door and entered the room,
waiting for Harry.
 
This room was much smaller than the living room, Harry noticed. He was looking
around with his mouth open in astonishment and his mind slipping back into the
gutter.
Two-thirds of the room’s floor was covered with some kind of mattress that
looked like it was taken off a king-sized bed. Dozens of candles were floating
about the room, giving it decidedly romantic atmosphere and Harry has wondered
if he has fallen asleep before going to his lesson and was dreaming the whole
thing.
“Take off your robe and your shoes and lie down.” Snape’s velvet voice and his
words only convinced Harry this was a dream.
He pulled off his school robe quickly and toed off his shoes, gazing at the
potions master expectantly. Looking pointedly at the low bed, the man lifted
first one and then the other foot to take his own shoes off. Harry obediently
climbed in the middle of the mattress, getting more excited by the minute.
“Lie down on your back, Mr Potter.” Said the velvet voice softly, making Harry
wonder why would his dream lover call him Mr Potter.
He was now lying on his back, staring at the floating candles. He felt the
mattress dip and knew Snape was coming closer. Feeling the arousal coiling
through his body, Harry gripped the soft green blanket he was lying on.
 
“Now, we will start with a deep breathing exercise. Close your eyes, breathe in
through your nose. Breathe deeply from your abdomen, exhale through your mouth,
pushing out as much air as you can while contracting your abdominal muscles.”
The velvet voice was murmuring into Harry’s ear and the teen was very aware of
the tall body lying next to him.
His breath was coming out in short pants and he startled when he suddenly felt
a hand on his own.
“You need to focus on breathing from your abdomen. If you take shallow breaths
from your upper chest, you inhale less oxygen.” The large hand covered his own
and placed them both on Harry’s stomach, holding them there. “Breathe in deeply
through your nose, focus on making your hand rise as you breathe from your
abdomen.”
Snape’s deep voice was doing amazing things to Harry’s body and he soon felt
his stomach was not the only thing rising.
“Now exhale slowly through your mouth, counting back from five. Slowly, Mr
Potter. Five, four, three, two, one.”
 
Harry was trying to focus on his breathing but so many things were distracting
him! The warm hand, covering his own and being so much larger, also touching a
part of his stomach. The soft voice, murmuring into his ear, melting his
insides with its velvety caress. The hot breath, tickling his ear and cheek and
giving him goosebumps all over his body…
“Good. Again, inhale slowly, make your hand rise and exhale to the count of
five. Focus only on your breathing, on making your hand rise and fall as you
breathe in and out. Try to inhale deeply enough to make your lower abdomen
move.”
Snape moved their connected hands a little bit lower on Harry’s stomach and
Harry felt the button of his trousers against his palm. He was getting more and
more aroused, every word whispered into his ear had caused delightful shivers
run through his body and with each rise and fall of his stomach, Snape’s little
finger would brush gently against the front of Harry’s trousers. Just a little
bit lower and Snape could touch his erection…
“Deep breaths, that’s it, Mr Potter. The deeper you inhale, the more oxygen
enters your body.”
Oh, Merlin, Snape’s voice and his words were making Harry feel flushed,
stimulating his already overactive imagination. All he registered was deeper,
enters your body deeper…
Harry was sure he was going to combust soon.
 
“Very good, now exhale slowly, as slow as you can, prolong your exhalation.”
Snape breathed out together with Harry, a gust of warm air blowing across the
teen’s face.
Harry’s whole body trembled with shivers of excitement, making his breath hitch
and interrupt the deep inhalation.
“Are you cold, Mr Potter?” Snape’s whispered question, so close to Harry’s ear,
triggered another round of shivers.
He felt Snape lean over him, his hand leaving Harry’s stomach and his long hair
suddenly falling over the teen’s face. Harry half opened his eyes and peered at
his professor, inhaling deeply at the same time. The pleasant scent of spicy
oranges hit him again and he realized it was the smell of Snape’s shampoo.
Snape was reaching somewhere past him, his hard chest pressed against Harry’s
arm and shoulder. Then the potions master leaned back, holding a blanket. He
spread it over Harry and covered him all the way to his chest.
“Continue with the breathing exercise, Mr Potter. Nice deep breaths and long
exhalation. Keep the rest of your body as relaxed as possible.” Snape murmured
and Harry felt the mattress dip again.
He heard some rustling and peeped at his professor, seeing the man pick up
Harry’s discarded robe and hang it over the back of a chair. Harry didn’t even
notice the chair before, all his attention was focused on the king-sized
mattress.
Snape put his shoes on and left the room, leaving Harry alone.
 
Harry was watching the candles, lazily floating around the room and became
aware of three things.
First, he was in Snape’s personal quarters. Second, this really wasn’t a dream.
And third, he still had a hard-on the size of a hippogriff.
Suddenly, Harry became mortified. Oh, Merlin, what if Snape could tell he got
hard? Was that why he left? What if he was now disgusted with Harry?
Harry was working himself up with worry, the breathing exercise long forgotten.
He closed his eyes again and tried to calm down, the erection subsiding with
all this fretting.
 
Harry was so lost in his panicked thoughts, he didn’t hear Snape come back in
the room and startled when the man spoke.
“This is an exercise you can practise every night before you go to sleep, Mr
Potter. Next time we will practise progressive muscle relaxation but deep
breathing should always be a part of your relaxation routine. You may get up
now, slowly. Sit at first to prevent getting dizzy.”
Harry opened his eyes and rolled to the side, slowly pushing himself up to the
sitting position. Snape was watching him intently, his eyes roaming all over
Harry’s face.
Remembering getting hard with the man next to him made the teen blush
furiously. He looked down at his hands, fidgeting with the blanket still
covering his legs.
“Are you well? You look rather feverish.” Snape asked, a hint of worry on his
otherwise impassive face.
Harry nodded, peering at the potions master through his eyelashes. “I’m fine,
sir.”
“Very well. You may put your shoes back on, we are finished for today.”
Nodding again, Harry folded the blanket and laid it on the mattress. Shuffling
towards the edge of the low bed, his feet hit the ground and he quickly pulled
on his trainers, this time making sure they were properly laced up.
Snape was observing him the whole time as if making sure Harry put his shoes on
correctly.
 
Harry then stood up, of course too quickly for his own good, and stumbled when
he got a headrush. Snape gripped his arms to steady him and when the darkness
receded from Harry’s vision, he could see Snape smirking at him.
“Truly, like a newborn foal.” He said, his voice soft and sounding almost fond.
“Sorry.” Whispered Harry, suddenly lost in those dark eyes that were watching
him with an amused glint.
They were standing there, staring into each other’s eyes, Snape’s hands still
on Harry’s arms. Harry found it difficult to breathe, his stomach was full of
butterflies again and a strange tension coiled through his body. The teen bit
his lip anxiously, his breath hitching when Snape’s eyes glanced at his mouth.
“You should leave.” Snape murmured, slowly unclenching his fingers to release
Harry.
The teen nodded, unable to find his voice.
Snape was touching him only with his palms now, gradually lowering his hands,
sliding down Harry’s arms in a soft caress. Harry felt light-headed, desire and
affection building up inside him, stretching throughout his whole body and
making him feel complete.
At last, Snape’s hands moved away and the man took a step back.
“Come, it’s getting late.” He said softly, picking up Harry’s robe and draping
it over the teen’s shoulders.
Harry followed the potions master out of the room, feeling dazed and giddy at
the same time, unable to comprehend yet what just happened.
Snape led them through the corridor and the sitting room, opening the last
door. He turned around, waiting for Harry. Harry walked through the doorway,
shivering when the cold of the dungeon’s corridor hit his flushed cheeks.
Pulling the robe tighter around his body, he looked up at Snape with a shy
smile. “Goodnight, sir.”
Snape watched him with an intense expression on his face, the dark eyes
regarding Harry with a longing look. “Goodnight… Harry.”
Shutting the door quietly behind him, the potions master disappeared inside,
leaving Harry standing in the hallway with an open mouth.
That night, Harry wasn’t walking back to the Gryffindor Tower, he was floating
on air.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you all for reading, lovely comments and kudos ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 16 *****
 
 
Walking briskly through the hallways of Hogwarts, Severus was on his way to the
weekly Sunday tea with the headmaster.
His weekend was quite pleasant so far, he had spent most of the Saturday locked
up in his private lab, brewing experimental potions. Emerging in the evening to
fulfil the Head of House duties, he visited the Slytherin dorms and spent an
hour talking to his Snakes, making sure the first years were settling in and
nobody in the house was causing mischief.
On Sunday morning, he decided to forgo a quick shower and indulged in taking a
long bath instead, complete with essential oils to make his skin feel like
silk. Standing in front of the mirror, after carefully washing and drying his
hair, Severus became aware of the fact he seemed to be spending more and more
time tending to his looks. He always scoffed at men who were pampering
themselves like women, finding such frivolities unnecessary.
Now, however, Severus was washing his hair every day. To get rid of the potions
fumes, he told himself. He whitened his teeth, using a mild bleaching solution
of his own invention, only because the yellow colour was surely detrimental to
his health. Duelling exercises kept his body in good shape, but lately, he
added light weight lifting to his training routine, to strengthen the muscles,
not to tone up.
He definitely didn’t flex his arms in front of the mirror every day to check
his progress, that would be just ridiculous.
And he definitely didn’t do all this, oh, what an absurd notion, to impress
certain someone with messy black hair and the greenest eyes this world has ever
seen.
 
Severus had gone through several stages of denial. First, he refused to see
what was right in front of him and clung to his prejudices, refusing to regard
Harry Potter as anything other than an arrogant, egoistic and spoilt brat.
Then he saw the boy lying in the pool of his own blood and later in the
hospital wing, and his ground has suddenly shifted. He started to realize there
was more to Harry Potter than meets the eye.
The next stage was anger. He was angry at himself, as being blind and biased
had almost resulted in a boy’s death. He was angry with Potter, for evoking
unknown or forgotten emotions in him with only as much as a smile. He was
furious with others who had claimed Potter’s attention in less than innocent
manner. Especially a certain redhead who would paw at Potter at any possible
time.
Then came the stage when Severus admitted that Potter fascinated him, but that
was all. He regarded him as an interesting research project, nothing more.
But the more engrossed he got by observing the boy the more fascinated he
became. Every little change in the boy’s facial expressions captivated him,
every smile directed at him caused his stomach flutter and every blush fuelled
the burning desire coiling through his body like fire.
At last, Severus admitted defeat. He was fascinated by the boy, mesmerized by
the green eyes. And though he struggled with his attraction to a sixteen-year-
old, feeling almost perverted to lust after someone so much younger than him,
he recognized he was attracted to the boy’s personality as well as his
appearance.
 
Lost in his musings he didn’t even notice he was already standing in front of a
gargoyle guarding the headmaster’s office. He gave the password, ‘Peppermint
Humbugs’ and stepped on the moving staircase that brought him to the
headmaster’s door. Knocking twice, he waited for Albus to let him inside.
“Severus, come in, my boy. I have the tea waiting.” Albus beckoned him to the
cushy armchairs in front of the fireplace rather than the chairs at his desk.
“Albus.” The potions master sat down gracefully, accepting a teacup but waving
away the sweets.
“How are you, Severus? You didn’t take your meals in the Great Hall this
weekend. It’s not healthy to hide yourself away all the time, you know.” Albus
was looking at him with a slightly patronizing smile.
“I am well, Albus. And you know weekends are my only refuge from the
dunderheads. I have spent a very productive day in my private lab yesterday.”
“Ah, were you successful?”
“Moderately. The experimental phase of the nerve damage repair elixir is going
well but the effect doesn’t last long enough yet. I’m hoping to eventually find
a long-lasting solution.” Said Severus proudly, certain that he would succeed
given enough time.
“That is wonderful, my boy. If anyone can invent such a potion, I’m sure it
will be you.”
Inclining his head, Severus accepted the compliment and stood to refill his
teacup.
“Now, tell me about your lesson with Harry. Did you like the room I provided?”
Albus’s wide smile and twinkling eyes gave him away.
Severus scoffed, not amused. “You did that on purpose! I was expecting to find
a quiet, unobtrusive room with perhaps a few yoga mats and a candle or two. Not
some kind of French boudoir that would not have been out of place in an
eighteenth-century romance novel!”
“Now, my boy, it is a perfectly acceptable meditation room. I have personally
made sure it is very comfortable. Didn’t Harry like it?”
Glaring at the headmaster, Severus answered. “I’m sure Potter enjoyed it
immensely. He is, after all, a Gryffindor. You seem to like such sentimental
nonsense.”
Albus chuckled and popped a sherbet lemon in his mouth. “How did the lesson
go?”
“It was… different. I had the boy practice deep breathing, which was
satisfactory though he seemed inordinately tense most of the time.”
 
Severus recalled lying close to the teen in that ridiculously romantic room,
their bodies nearly touching. The boy looked so beautiful, his face illuminated
by the soft candlelight, the messy hair spread out around his head like a halo.
Severus was overcome by an intense desire to touch that beauty, to feel the
silky skin that was still slightly tanned from the summer sun. Covering the
boy’s smaller hand with his own, feeling the rise and fall of his stomach,
listening to the boy’s deep breaths and watching those pretty lips part as if
waiting for a kiss… all that was wreaking havoc on Severus’s self-control.
There he was, seemingly calm and talking the boy through the exercise but in
reality fighting a wave after wave of an intense arousal, coiling through him
like a snake and igniting his body with lust.
When he felt the boy’s body tremble with shivers, his breath hitching so
erotically, Severus had to summon every inch of self-control not to pounce on
the boy. He had to leave the room, occlude heavily and calm himself down before
he dared to face the teen again.
And when they stood opposite each other, gazing into each other's eyes, the
time had stopped. Nothing else existed for Severus but the mesmerizing green
eyes of the beautiful teen in front of him. He wasn’t familiar with the
emotions that assaulted him whenever he was near Harry. Or whenever he thought
about him, dreamed of him, contemplated him.
Severus has never allowed himself grow close to anyone, not after losing his
friendship with Lily. Yet Harry seemed to be slowly worming his way into
Severus’s heart and that notion thrilled and terrified him at the same time.
 
He shook himself out of his reveries when Albus spoke.
“I’m sure he will improve with time. This is all new to him, after all. “ Said
Albus, his eyes suddenly pinning Severus with a piercing look. “I take it your
relationship with Harry is already improving?”
Furrowing his eyebrows, Severus answered evasively. “It is certainly advancing
in the right direction. The boy is applying himself in Potions and shows a
great promise.”
“And your personal relationship?” The blue eyes were twinkling so much Severus
wondered if the headmaster could see at all.
“I’m sure I don’t know what you’re talking about, Albus.” Severus regarded him
with an impassive expression.
 
“No? Well, perhaps we can talk about that at the next Sunday tea. I do have
another matter to discuss with you, Severus.” The headmaster walked to his desk
and picked up a parchment. “I have discovered a very probable location of one
of the Voldemort’s dark artefacts. There is a ruin of an old house that once
belonged to Voldemort’s grandfather, just outside a village of Little
Hangleton.”
Severus sat up straight in his chair. “You are aware that the Dark Lord resides
in The Riddle Manor. Why would he leave a valuable artefact in a ruin when he
could store it safely in his house?”
Albus handed him the parchment, it was a map of sorts. “I believe the ruin has
a special meaning to Voldemort. I want to visit this place tonight and should
my theory be proven correct, I was hoping you would help me destroy the relic.”
“I will accompany you, Albus. The Dark Lord has surely placed many spells and
curses on this place if he indeed used it to hide the artefact. My dark arts
expertise might be needed.” Said Severus in a sure voice, not giving Albus a
chance to refuse.
“Very well, my boy. We will leave right after supper. Let us hope that after
tonight we will be one step closer to defeating Voldemort.” Albus patted him on
the shoulder, his eyes serious.
 
After the dinner in the Great Hall, which Severus spent by observing a certain
messy haired teen who blushed every time he glanced at the head table, Albus
and Severus returned to the headmaster’s office.
The headmaster disappeared into his private chambers and came back a moment
later carrying a rather large shoulder bag. Being able to apparate through the
Hogwarts wards, Albus side-along apparated them to Little Hangleton.
They walked quickly through the village, the streets dark and deserted. Soon,
they reached the woods and there, almost hidden amongst the trees, was a ruin
of an old house.
It looked like it hadn’t been inhabited for centuries, the walls were
completely covered in moss and many tiles were missing from the roof. Albus
started walking around, casting detecting spells and looking for a door.
Severus felt the sinister energy of dark magic all around the house, the air
practically sizzling with its ominous power. Many protective and repelling
spells were placed on the house, most of them very dark and dangerous.
 
Dismantling them cautiously one by one, Severus and Albus have finally stepped
inside the shack. Carefully following the trail of dark magic, Severus knelt on
the floor and lifted a few loose floorboards.
Gently picking up the golden box he found, he set it on a dirty table still
standing there and cast another set of detection spells over it. After removing
the last enchantments, Albus opened the box and took out a gold ring inset with
a black stone.
“This is it. This is the artefact.” Said Albus, carefully examining the ring.
Peering at the black stone intently, he suddenly lifted his other hand and went
to slide the ring on his finger.
Severus reacted almost instinctively, knocking the ring out of Albus's hand and
sending it flying across the room. “No! Albus! It’s cursed!”
Frozen in shock for a second, the headmaster took a deep, shuddering breath.
Severus found the ring again, cautiously picking it up and laying it on the
table. “The ring pulses with dark magic. I can sense the dark curse woven
around it but there is something else as well. I have never felt the dark magic
so sinister. What is this thing, Albus?”
The headmaster seemed to have found his bearings and answered. “It is a product
of the worst possible crime committed, a crime of murder. That is all I can say
about it at this time.”
He looked Severus in the eyes and took the potions master’s hand in his own.
“Thank you, Severus. You have saved my life.”
Severus regarded him with furrowed eyebrows. “You are welcome. Why would you
even want to put that ring on, Albus? You must feel that it’s cursed.”
Albus sighed, opening his shoulder bag and pulling out the sword of Gryffindor.
“It was rather foolish of me. We should destroy the ring right away.”
 
Severus noticed Albus didn’t answer his question but he didn’t pry. Casting a
powerful shield between them and the ring, he nodded to Albus. The older man
lifted the sword above his head and swinging it rapidly he hit the ring.
A piercing scream resonated through the shack, sending unpleasant shivers down
Severus’s back. When the scream died away, they could see the black stone of
the ring had shattered and they felt the dark magic dissipate.
Albus put the ring in his pocket and quickly apparated them back to Hogwarts.
 
Severus didn’t sleep well that night, his dreams plagued by the horrid screams.
Next morning, he sat at breakfast nursing a cup of coffee, his food untouched.
Glaring at anyone who dared to disturb him, Severus wished he could cancel the
day and return to bed.
Just then he heard a tinkling laughter of someone coming through the door.
Turning to glare at whoever had dared to be happy this morning, he found
himself staring into the smiling green eyes of Harry Potter.
The boy’s expression dimmed a bit but when Severus nodded at him in greeting,
Harry’s face lit up again with that perfect, beautiful smile.
Severus watched him walk to his place at the Gryffindor table, observed him as
the boy ate his breakfast, noticed what kinds of food the teen preferred and
counted the number of times Harry sneakily glanced at him.
 
And when he later walked back to his office, his inner voice repeated over and
over again.
‘ Forty-two. He looked at you forty-two times. Forty-two!’
 
 
 
***** Chapter 17 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
On Tuesday evening, Severus was waiting for Potter… Harry… yes, Harry. He was
no longer just another of the brats, slowly but surely he was becoming
important to Severus in a way he had never expected him to be.
He was waiting for Harry in his rooms, having sent the teen a note earlier
asking him to come straight to Severus’s quarters and don the invisibility
cloak to avoid detection of any possible prying eyes.
It was Albus’s idea to use the cloak and Severus conceded it had many merits.
Should the Dark Lord receive a word of Harry’s visits in his quarters, he would
immediately demand the boy’s abduction.
 
Severus wasn’t very keen on the idea of holding the occlumency lessons in his
rooms, partly because it was completely inappropriate for a teacher to
entertain a student in his private chambers and partly because seeing Harry
there, casually sitting on his couch and lying on the makeshift bed, made it
that much harder for Severus to resist ravishing the boy on the spot.
But Albus had waved away his concern about propriety, saying that Harry was
above the age of consent and the school rules only clearly stated the male-
female teacher-student sexual relationships were forbidden, there was nothing
there about the male-male or female-female relationships.
The twinkly-eyed Albus then left, leaving Severus staring after him in shock.
He still wasn’t fully convinced the headmaster hasn’t gone mad.
 
A gentle knocking has sent him walking to the door and opening it impatiently.
Staring at the empty corridor, Severus could feel someone brushing past him on
the way inside. He closed the door and turned around.
Harry was in the process of pulling the invisibility cloak off, making his hair
stand in every direction even worse than usual.
“Good evening, Mr Potter.” Said Severus, finding the boy’s messy-haired look
extremely endearing.
“Good evening, sir.”
Severus observed Harry as he folded his cloak carefully, laying it on the edge
of the sofa. He was dressed casually tonight, something Severus has also
requested in his note. He was hoping the boy would be able to loosen up more if
he didn’t have to wear his uniform, the constrictive clothing was after all
highly impractical during relaxation.
Harry was wearing loose, dark blue sweatpants that looked about two sizes too
big for him, the waistband falling around the hips so low that one good tug
would have them falling down. The boy’s grey long sleeve could have been black
once, but the colour has long faded away. It was very wide as if meant for a
much larger person and Harry’s slender form was entirely hidden by the sizeable
clothing. His red trainers completed the ensemble.
 
“Have you practised the deep breathing since your last lesson?” Severus asked,
slowly making his way to the other side of the room.
Fidgeting with the too long sleeves, Harry followed the potions master with his
eyes and answered. “Yes, sir, every night. It made falling asleep easier.”
“Indeed. The more you practise the relaxation techniques the more accustomed
you get to how your body feels during the exercises. You will be able to
utilize this skill in stressful situations, regain your composure with a few
deep breaths and reign in your emotions in such cases where keeping your head
calm could mean a difference between survival and death.” Said Severus
seriously in his best lecturing voice. “Now come, today we’ll try something
different.”
 
He led them back to the small room, too extravagant for their needs yet
certainly quite comfortable.
“Take off your shoes and lie down on your back. Start with the deep breathing
for a few minutes, relax your body as much as possible.” Severus took his own
shoes off and lied down next to Harry, lying on his side and facing the teen
just like last time. He stretched his right arm under his head, gazing at the
beautiful boy in front of him.
Harry was breathing deeply in and out, his closed eyes still hidden behind the
round spectacles. His nose was small and perfectly straight and Severus felt a
sudden urge to kiss its tip. The rosy lips kept opening and puckering slightly
with each exhalation, practically begging to be kissed and tasted.
Closing his eyes for a moment to regain his composure, Severus spoke in a soft,
soothing voice. “Now you’ll practise the progressive muscle relaxation. Shift
your attention to your right foot, squeeze it as tightly as you can and hold
for a count of ten.”
Severus lifted his head slightly to watch Harry’s foot tense and relax. He
noticed his feet were quite small and just as slender as the rest of his body.
“Good, now focus on the tension flowing away, feel your foot become loose and
limp. When you’re ready, repeat the exercise with your left foot and after
that, first right and then left calf.”
Talking to the boy through the whole exercise, Severus took his time to observe
him attentively. After a while, he realized Harry was reacting to his voice. He
leaned closer and practically whispered the instructions into his ear, feeling
thrilled when Harry’s breath hitched and his hand gripped the blanket they lay
on.
 
Suddenly, Harry’s eyes opened and he turned his head towards Severus, peering
at him questioningly.
Curious, Severus murmured. “What is it?” His eyes flickered to Harry’s mouth
just as the teen licked his lips.
“I like that.” Harry whispered.
When Severus lifted his eyebrow in question, he continued. “I like your hand
playing with my hair.”
Astounded, Severus became aware of his hand, touching Harry’s head and carding
through his soft hair.
“I apologize, I didn’t mean to…” He said, but Harry interrupted him quickly.
“No! Don’t stop. Please.”
 
The mesmerizing green eyes were melting all of Severus’s resolves, drawing him
in, further and further to the point of no return.
He petted the silky hair tenderly, combing his fingers through the short
strands. Their eyes were locked on each other, an exciting sort of tension
building up between them, making Severus’s heartbeat quicken as if he’s been
running for miles.
He lifted his left hand and began slowly tracing the contours of Harry’s face.
His fingertips were brushing along the teen’s jaw, his temples and forehead,
lingering on the famous scar and tracing it with feather-light touches.
Severus’s long forefinger then followed the straight line of Harry’s perfect
little nose, playfully tapping on the tip once and then moving on to explore
the full lips. Gently caressing the seductive bow of the upper lip at first, he
noticed it was a bit thinner than the other one. Severus traced the fuller
lower lip softly until the gentle pressure of his finger caused the lips to
part slightly. He could feel Harry’s warm breath, puffing against his finger.
 
The teen was watching him the whole time, his eyes half-lidded behind the
glasses. Severus brushed his finger against that tempting mouth again, learning
its shape and texture.
Then Harry moistened his lips, accidentally licking Severus’s finger and all of
the potions master’s resolves dissipated like snow before the sun.
“Harry.” He whispered and when the boy’s breath hitched, he couldn’t resist him
any longer.
Leaning closer, he softly pressed his lips against Harry’s in a sweet, tender
kiss. He moved back a little, trying to read the boy’s eyes. Harry was looking
at him wide-eyed, surprised yet seemingly pleased. Severus suddenly felt a hand
sliding through his long hair, brushing them away from his face.
“More.” The teen whispered and pressed his palm against Severus’s cheek in an
affectionate gesture.
Leaning closer again, Severus moulded his lips to Harry’s, slowly caressing and
massaging them, one of his hands still playing with the teen’s hair and the
other one lightly petting his face. The kiss was not passionate but sweet and
romantic. Somehow that made it feel all the more special to Severus.
He pressed his lips to Harry’s one more time and then moved along his jawline,
peppering it with tiny kisses, revelling in the little shivers he induced.
“Harry.” He whispered, softly kissing the teen’s ear. Harry moaned quietly and
Severus kissed his ear again, earning himself another low moan. Gripped by a
sudden urge to hear his name fall from those luscious lips, Severus murmured in
between the kisses.
“Harry, say my name. My first name, Harry.”
He traced the edge of Harry’s ear with the tip of his tongue, making the teen’s
body bow slightly in pleasure and moan out his answer.
“Severus…”
 
Something has shifted within Severus, hearing his name moaned out like that. He
has never experienced this kind of intimacy, tremendously arousing yet also
innocent at the same time.
At that moment he understood no one would ever be as important to him as Harry
was. The friendly affection he once felt for Lily paled in comparison with the
deep emotions Harry inspired in Severus.
Kissing the boy’s mouth again, he enjoyed the fullness of those delicious lips,
not making an attempt to deepen the kiss. Harry was so young, so innocent in
his eyes and Severus didn’t want to spoil that innocence by forcing himself on
the boy any more than he already had. Slowly coming back to his senses, he
ended the kiss with a few last tender nips on Harry’s jaw.
“No more.” He whispered when Harry opened his eyes. “I shouldn’t have done
that.”
“I wanted you to.” The green eyes were watching him searchingly. “I dream about
you every night.” He said softly, a blush reddening his cheeks prettily.
Severus’s heart soared, a sudden warmth coiling through his body.
“I’m too old for you.” He murmured. “Too damaged.”
“No.” Shaking his head, the teen pressed both his hands against Severus’s
cheeks. “I like you just the way you are.”
 
“I am not likeable.” Severus furrowed his eyebrows, staring into Harry’s eyes
wistfully. “I don’t know how to be pleasant. You experienced that better than
anyone. My behaviour towards you was utterly abhorrent.” Closing his eyes, his
next words came out in a pained voice. “Seeing you lying there, in a puddle of
your own blood and knowing it was my fault… I nearly killed you… Of all the
despicable things I have ever done this was the worst. I will never forgive
myself for hurting you like that.”
“It wasn’t just your fault, I provoked you.” Harry said in a self-blaming tone.
Severus’s eyes popped open and he glared at the teen fiercely. “Never say that
again! You are not to blame for the injuries inflicted on you by others! I
should have sent you away, taken points or give you a detention, not resort to
violence! I’m a monster!”
 
He stood up from the low bed and took a few steps, his back to Harry and his
face covered with his right hand.
What was he doing? He was truly a monster, forcing himself on a sixteen-year-
old boy, taking advantage of his innocence. He should be locked up in Azkaban,
far away from this beautiful teen before he caused him any more harm.
Lost in the self-loathing thoughts, he didn’t notice Harry has moved until he
felt a small hand prying his own away from his face.
“You’re not a monster. And I like you.” The teen said stubbornly, looking up at
him.
“You shouldn't.” Severus watched him with a bland face, thinking he should send
the boy away, save him from his clutches while he was still able to,
reestablish their teacher-student relationship firmly and never stray from it
again.
 
The boy seemed to have sensed what he was thinking because one of his hands
suddenly touched Severus’s face.
“Please don’t. Don’t send me away and pretend nothing happened. I really like
you.” He said in a pleading voice, a lone tear slowly running down his face.
 
Severus was many things… he was unpleasant to those he disliked, he was strict
and had no patience for stupidity, he was sarcastic to the point of being
cruel… But contrary to popular belief, he wasn’t heartless.
And seeing this beautiful boy, tearing up because of him, was something he
simply couldn’t stand for.
He cupped Harry’s face with his hand and wiped the tear away. “Our demeanour
outside of these rooms must remain the same as before. I am your teacher and on
top of it a Death Eater, I can’t be seen being more civil to you than I already
have been.”
Severus knew he was setting himself up for a heartbreak, that one day soon
Harry will realize that an unpleasant older man, twenty years his senior, was
not someone he wanted to be around.
But his self-control only went so far and when he suddenly found himself with
the slender arms around his waist and a messy-haired head pressed against his
chest, Severus’s heart was utterly lost.
“I’ll be careful.” Mumbled Harry, hugging him tightly.
 
They stood like that for a long moment, hugging, with Severus’s nose buried in
the messy black hair.
At last, Severus pulled himself back, his hand lifting the boy’s chin. “It’s
getting late, you should return to your dormitory.”
“Okay.” Nodded Harry but didn’t move.
Severus gave him a quick kiss on the tip of his nose, making the teen smile.
“Come on, put your shoes on. I’ll walk you to the door.”
Harry nodded again and obediently pulled on his trainers, following Severus to
the sitting room. He picked up the invisibility cloak, draping it around
himself but keeping his face visible.
“Good night, Severus.” He said with a shy smile.
Severus felt as if his heart was expanding in his chest, trying to contain all
his warm and affectionate feelings towards this beautiful boy.
“Good night, Harry.” Stealing one last kiss from the tempting lips, Severus
opened the door and let Harry out, feeling a fleeting caress of the boy’s hand
against his own.
 
That night Severus had spent a long time sitting in front of the fireplace,
staring into the flames and contemplating the enigma that was Harry Potter.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Well, it only took our boys 17 chapters :)
     I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and are still enjoying the story.
     Thank you so much for the comments and kudos! ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 18 *****
 
 
Harry was not merely floating, he was soaring high in the sky! Ever since his
Tuesday lesson with Severus, yes, Severus!! Harry was feeling as if his life
couldn’t get any better than this.
When he felt the potions master’s hand playing with his hair, Harry first
thought he was imagining things. Something that wonderful surely couldn’t be
real? But it was real and when the man started to touch Harry’s face, Harry
just about melted into a puddle of goo.
And then he kissed him! Snape, Severus kissed him! It was the most amazing
kiss, soft and gentle yet making Harry’s toes curl up with intense pleasure.
And when the man kissed his ear, Harry felt as if he’d died and went to heaven.
It was the most arousing feeling, sending little shocks of bliss through his
whole body.
He was embarrassed later for moaning so wantonly, blushing when he thought
about it. Though Severus seemed to like hearing his name from Harry’s lips just
like it thrilled Harry to hear his from the potions master’s.
Afterwards, Harry got scared Severus would want to pretend nothing had happened
between them and would go back to treating Harry with indifference. That
thought made his heart contract with pain.
Standing there, looking into the man’s dark eyes that just a moment before
watched him so fondly, Harry realized his tiny crush has in fact grown into
something much larger. And the thought of losing it, before he could even truly
comprehend that particular set of emotions, filled him with unbearable sadness.
But Severus didn’t revert back to his old self. He wiped away Harry’s tears and
warned him to keep pretending their relationship hasn’t changed outside of the
potions master’s rooms. Which meant he was willing to continue this thing,
whatever it was called, that was slowly developing between them.
Harry didn’t know how he found his way back to the Gryffindor Tower that night.
All he could see was the image of Severus in his mind. The way he watched Harry
as if he was looking at something precious, the way his eyes darkened when
Harry accidentally licked his finger, the way he whispered into Harry’s ear in
that low, velvet voice…
 
Harry was sitting in the Gryffindor common room, with his left elbow on the
table and head leaning on his hand, staring into space while he was supposed to
be working on his homework. The only homework he managed without any
distractions was, of course, his Potions essay because he wanted to please and
impress Severus.
Ooh, Severus… with his amazing dark eyes and beautiful long hair and a bit
bigger nose that brushed so tenderly against Harry’s cheek when they kissed…
mmm…
“Mate, are you okay? You’re drooling on your Transfiguration paper.” Ron’s
voice suddenly penetrated Harry’s daydreaming.
“What? Oh, yeah, I’m fine.” Sighed Harry, looking down at the parchment in
front of him.
Hermione, who was going over Ron’s essay to correct any grammar mistakes,
peered at him thoughtfully.
“You seem to be doing that a lot lately.” She said. “Just staring into nothing
with a silly smile on your face.” Suddenly, she sat up straight and pierced
Harry with a knowing look. “Alright, spill. Who is it?”
“Who is what?” Ron asked confused, looking first at Hermione and then at Harry.
The bushy-haired girl smiled. “Who is the object of Harry’s infatuation?”
Blushing furiously, Harry pretended to be busy with writing.
“You mean Harry likes someone? Some bloke?” Ron looked surprised at first but
then turned to his best friend with a lewd smile. “Ooh, mate, who is it?”
“Hmm? No one.” Not looking at his friends, Harry was fumbling with his quill.
“Come on, mate! Tell us! Is it someone from Gryffindor? Ravenclaw?” Ron was
looking around the common room as if someone would have ‘Harry’s potential love
interest’ written on their forehead.
“Umm, no. Not from Gryffindor or Ravenclaw.”
Ron turned back to their table. “Hufflepuff then?”
When Harry shook his head, the redhead’s eyes almost popped out of their
sockets. “A Slytherin? You like a Slytherin, Harry?” He cried out loudly,
making many heads in the common room turn to look at them.
“Sshh!” Harry shushed him, his face burning hot.
“Honestly, Ron.” Hermione shook her head at him. “There’s nothing wrong with
liking a Slytherin.”
Harry threw her a thankful look. “Thanks, Mione.”
 
“Right.” Said Ron, a bit taken aback. “You can’t help who you like. Just
please, tell me it’s not Malfoy!” He was looking at Harry with pleading eyes.
Harry blinked, regarding him incredulously. “Yes, Ron, it’s Malfoy, I just
can’t resist that pointy face!”
When the redhead’s eyes widened in horror, Hermione burst out laughing. “You
better tell him the truth, Harry. Before he has a heart attack.” She giggled.
Harry rolled his eyes at his best friend. “It’s not Malfoy, Ron. I can’t tell
you who it is.”
“Oh.” Looking quite relieved, Ron leaned closer to Harry. “Why can’t you tell
us?”
“He, umm, he doesn’t want people knowing about him.” Harry was making up the
excuse on the go. “That he’s gay, you know.”
“Of course, Harry. That is very personal.” Nodded Hermione knowingly.
“Yeah, alright.” Said Ron. “So he likes you back?”
Both friends were looking at Harry expectantly, waiting for his answer.
“Yes. He kissed me.” Harry’s blush was back with a vengeance.
Hermione squeezed his hand happily and Ron grinned at him. Their homework lay
forgotten on the table as they spent the rest of the evening talking about
Harry’s mysterious love interest. Harry didn’t mind, he would have wanted to
share everything with his two best friends but he understood it wasn’t possible
at this time.
When Hermione started to lecture Harry about gay sex, about which she’s already
found and read a book, the boys fled to their dormitory. Ron with his hands
over his ears, saying he didn’t need to know how his friend and brother had sex
and Harry with fiercely red cheeks, embarrassedly taking the book Hermione
handed him.
 
Lying in bed later, practising the deep breathing, Harry’s mind was once again
occupied with Severus. He slowly drifted to sleep, dreaming about the strong
arms and long hair, luscious kisses and arousing touches. His dream Severus was
just about to take his shirt off when the dream abruptly changed.
 
He was in a dark room, illuminated only by a lone candle next to him. He was
sitting behind a desk, reading a large, old looking tome and turning the pages
carefully with his pale, spidery fingers.
Suddenly, he was filled with an intense feeling of malicious glee, tapping his
long finger at a primitive drawing in the middle of the page. His familiar
slithered around him and up his leg, her tongue tickling the long fingers as he
petted her scales.
‘Massster.’
‘I have found the means to access an unlimited source of power, Nagini. I will
use the ancient secrets of the forgotten civilisation and push the limits of
dark magic further than anyone before. I will truly become unstoppable!’ He
heard himself say in a cold, high-pitched voice.
An evil, malevolent cackle echoed around the room as he laughed, catching his
own reflection in the polished candlestick holder. The ruby red eyes were
looking back at him, shining with delight.
 
“Voldemort!” Harry woke up with a gasp, looking around himself in the dark and
feeling disoriented. Finally recognizing the fuzzy outline of his four-poster
bed, he sighed in relief.
It was just a dream, he was still in Hogwarts. He was safe. But the dream had
felt so real, just like those times he accidentally entered Voldemort’s
thoughts.
Scrambling out of the bed quickly after putting on his glasses, Harry pulled a
jumper over his pyjama’s, grabbed the invisibility cloak and his wand and
hurried out of the dormitory. He needed to see Dumbledore right away. If this
truly was a real vision, the headmaster will want to know about it.
Running through the icy hallways, he made it to the headmaster’s gargoyle in
record time. He stood in front of the ugly statue, panting heavily.
“I need to see the headmaster! Open up!”
The gargoyle regarded him with a bored expression on its squashed face.
“Urgh, I don’t know the password! Ice mice! Liquorice wand! Fizzing Whizbeez!”
Harry was shouting out the sweets’ names randomly, hoping to find the right
one. The headmaster was known for his sweet tooth and most of his passwords
were candy related.
However, after ten minutes of naming all the sweets he could think of, Harry
was quickly running out of options.
“Just let me in, you stupid frog!” Frustrated, Harry kicked the statue,
realizing too late he had forgotten to put on his shoes. A sharp pain hit his
foot as it collided with the hard stone.
“Ow, ow, ow, damn!” Fallen down after the impact, Harry was sitting on the cold
floor, holding his right foot and trying to breathe through the pain.
 
Suddenly the gargoyle moved aside, revealing the headmaster. He was looking at
Harry curiously and the teen temporarily forgot his pain when he noticed
Dumbledore’s night hat.
It was pointed, with a long top and a small fluffy ball hanging from the end.
Twinkly yellow stars were shining brightly on the dark blue hat.
“Harry? What are you doing here, my boy?” Dumbledore asked, coming closer.
Harry squeezed his hurt foot with both hands and answered. “I had a dream about
Voldemort, sir. A vision of sorts, just like before. I saw everything through
his eyes.”
Dumbledore’s face turned serious at once. “Come, my boy. Let us watch your
memory in the pensieve.”
He waited for Harry to follow him. Harry stood carefully on his left foot,
hissing in pain when his right one touched the ground.
“What happened to your foot?” The headmaster peered at him from above his half-
moon spectacles.
“Umm, I kicked the gargoyle. It wouldn’t let me in.” Replied Harry with a
sheepish smile.
The headmaster nodded. “Understandable. It can be quite frustrating at times.
Should you need to see me again soon, the password is toffee crumble.”
 
He winked at Harry and took his elbow, helping him to the staircase. Once
there, the moving stairs took them all the way to the headmaster’s office.
Harry carefully hobbled to a chair and sat down.
Summoning the pensieve, Dumbledore set it on his desk and motioned to Harry to
deposit his memory. Having done it a few times before, Harry knew he had to
concentrate on that specific dream and then extract it with his wand. The
silvery strand was soon added to the whirling mist within the pensieve.
“Should I watch it with you, sir? Voldemort was talking to his snake, so I
think he was speaking Parseltongue. Even though it sounds like English to me.”
Harry said, looking at the headmaster questioningly.
“Yes, my boy. You best come along. Perhaps you’ll see something you didn’t
notice while dreaming.”
“Alright.”
Together they touched the silvery pensieve liquid and whirled right into
Harry’s dream.
 
Harry tried to pay attention to every little detail, especially the book
Voldemort was reading. Translating the Parseltongue for the headmaster, Harry
realized the snake-faced man has found something that would give him a great
advantage. The question was, what was it?
He tried to read the book in front of Voldemort but he couldn’t understand a
single word. It was written in some odd language, the only term that looked at
least a bit similar to English was the word zombi.
Harry really hoped it didn’t mean what he thought it meant.
 
After exiting the pensieve, the headmaster sat in his chair motionless, a
thoughtful expression on his face. All of a sudden, he stood up and moved to
the fireplace. Throwing in a pinch of floo powder, he called into the green
flames.
“Severus! Severus, wake up!”
Harry felt a thrill of excitement run through his body at hearing Severus’s
name.
It only took a moment before the potions master answered. “What is it, Albus?”
“Could you come through to my office, my boy? And bring some pain and healing
potion, please.”
There was a slight pause before Severus answered. “Of course. I’ll be right
there.”
 
When the tall man stepped out of the fireplace a moment later, Harry was
grinning at him from behind the headmaster’s back. Severus raised an eyebrow,
though he looked pleased to see him.
“You needed the potions, Albus?” He turned to the headmaster.
“Oh, yes. Those would be for Harry. He seems to have had a run-in with my
gargoyle.”
“Indeed?” Severus moved towards Harry, his eyes scanning the teen for injuries.
“What have you done this time, Mr Potter?” He asked as he kneeled in front of
Harry and gently touched his hurt foot, examining it.
Harry blushed when he felt Severus’s long fingers brush against his skin. “I
kicked the gargoyle.” He said.
The potions master looked up at him with a slight smirk. “I would say the
gargoyle won this round. Perhaps you should consider wearing shoes next time,
hm?”
“Yeah.” Harry was staring into his eyes, getting lost in those dark orbs again.
Severus was gently petting his foot, both of them seemingly forgetting the
headmaster who was watching them with twinkly eyes.
Suddenly, Severus blinked and handed Harry the potions. “Here, drink these.
Your foot doesn’t seem to be broken, just badly bruised. The potions will
help.”
“Thank you.”
He watched as Harry downed the potions and then turned back to the headmaster.
“I assume there was another reason you wanted to see me, Albus?”
The headmaster nodded and beckoned him closer. “Harry has had another vision.
You can see for yourself, it is a true one, not just a dream.”
Severus glanced at Harry with a worried look before touching the pensieve to
watch the memory. Harry and the headmaster waited in silence, both of them lost
in their thoughts.
It didn’t take long for Severus to emerge from the pensive, a serious
expression on his face.
 
“The book of Bokor.” He said. “The Dark Lord is studying the black magic of the
voodoo sorcerers.”
 
 
 
 
***** Chapter 19 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
“The book of Bokor.” Severus said. “The Dark Lord is studying the black magic
of the voodoo sorcerers.”
Albus regarded him with a serious expression, the twinkle in his eyes dimmed a
little. “That’s what I was afraid of. I thought I recognized the voodoo
symbols.”
Harry was watching them curiously, looking utterly adorable dressed in his
pyjamas, a hand-knitted jumper with a big H on it, one leg folded with his foot
under his bum and the other one swinging from the chair freely.
“Voodoo? As in sticking needles in little dolls to hurt people?” He asked
sceptically.
 
Severus smirked, amused despite the seriousness of the situation. The more he
was getting to know Harry, the more he adored his every little reaction. A weak
voice in his mind berated him for behaving like a lovesick fool but he happily
ignored it.
“No, those are just fairytales created by simpleminded muggles. The voodoo is a
branch of magic that was commonly practised on the islands of the Caribbean
Sea. Wizards and witches achieved their goals by summoning different kinds of
spirits and presenting them offerings to gain their help. This particular
practice was, for the most part, lost when muggles killed the majority of the
magical population in witchhunts.”
“Oh.” Said Harry, scrunching his nose. “So why would Voldemort want to use it?”
Severus glanced at Albus and then back at Harry. “What did the Dark Lord say? I
know he was speaking Parseltongue.”
“He said he was going to use ancient secrets of the forgotten civilisations.
That he will be unstoppable.” Harry told him. He was opening his mouth to say
something else when the headmaster interrupted him.
“I think you should return to your dormitory, Harry. It is already very late
and you still have classes tomorrow.”
Harry looked at him with a disappointed expression on his beautiful face.
“But…”
“Please, my boy. I need to discuss important matters with professor Snape and
you need to get some sleep. You may use my fireplace to floo directly to the
Gryffindor common room, it will save you a long journey through the chilly
hallways.” Albus said, his tone pleasant but strict.
Glancing at Severus, Harry nodded sadly and got up to leave.
“Umm, I’d rather walk if it’s ok, sir. I’m not so good at using the floo.” He
said, fidgeting with his jumper.
“Nonsense, my boy. This is a closed network with only a selected number of
fireplaces, it will be as if you stepped through the door, nothing to worry
about.”
The headmaster took some floo powder and established the connection. “Come,
Harry.”
 
Harry moved to Severus, standing in front of him in a way that the potions
master’s taller form hid the boy from the headmaster’s eyes.
“Thank you for healing my foot, sir.” He said with a shy smile, touching
Severus’s hand with a light caress.
Severus squeezed his hand lightly in response, his eyes roaming all over
Harry’s face. “You are welcome, Mr Potter.” He said and leaned in a bit,
murmuring almost inaudibly. “It was my pleasure.”
 
Severus watched as Harry flooed away, stumbling into the flames with his cheeks
flushed red and a silly smile on his face.
“Now then.” Said Albus when they were alone. “What can you tell me about The
book of Bokor?”
Severus sat down on the chair that Harry had occupied just a moment ago,
regarding the headmaster thoughtfully. “The book of Bokor is an ancient
manuscript that contains all the information about the dark voodoo sorcerers.
The book was thought to be long lost, destroyed in the witchhunts with no
copies left. Apparently, the Dark Lord has managed to obtain it somehow.”
Albus nodded, sitting down behind his desk and peering at Severus with a
piercing look. “How do you know of these sorcerers? Have you studied this dark
magic?”
Severus looked at him with narrowed eyes. “I have read about it. I have studied
poisonous plants and animals that different civilisations used in their
potions. The Bokor sorcerers were famous for using poison extracted from puffer
fish in their brews. If I have gained any additional knowledge, it was only the
result of being thorough.” He said, folding his arms across his chest
defiantly.
“Forgive me, my boy.” Albus leaned back, looking sufficiently chastised. “I
didn’t mean to imply you were dabbling in the dark arts. Anything we can find
about Voldemort’s possible plans would be most helpful.”
 
Nodding shortly in acceptance of the headmaster’s apology, Severus continued.
“The bokors were the dark priests of the voodoo. They were the sorcerers who
practised magic for both good and evil, though they were most skilled in black
magic. They were thought to be the masters of necromancy.”
“Ah.” Said Albus, scratching his long white beard. “We know that Voldemort had
used necromancy before. He’s already accomplished creating the Inferi, though
their use is vastly limited due to their inability to think for themselves.
What exactly was Voldermort reading about in Harry’s vision?” He looked at
Severus questioningly.
“He was studying the zombie astral, a spirit or a soul captured in an inanimate
object to enhance the bokor’s powers. I assume this is something the Dark Lord
wants to utilize.” Severus stood up and began pacing around the room. “It
doesn’t seem logical to use such objects in the quest for ultimate power. For
one, he would need to carry them everywhere he goes.”
Albus hummed thoughtfully. “That does seem rather counterproductive. Perhaps he
wishes to use one object for several spirits?”
“As far as I know, that isn’t possible. Bokors would indeed enslave multiple
souls at once but each soul had to have its own container.” Severus stopped
pacing, gazing at the headmaster with a determined look on his face. “I will
search through my books for any relevant information. And I still have an
access to the Malfoy library even though Lucius is now in Azkaban. I will look
there as well.”
 
“Very good, my boy.” The headmaster left his chair and stood in front of
Severus, patting his arm lightly. “In the meantime, you need to make sure
Harry’s mind is protected from Voldemort. If the boy can’t manage it himself,
you must help him erect the shields from within his mind.”
Severus shook his head. “He is not ready for that, yet. He would have to open
his mind to me completely, reveal all his secrets. I have only just begun to
mend our relationship. If I invade his mind now, I risk losing any chance I
might have had to earn his trust.”
Severus didn’t want to destroy the fragile connection between him and Harry.
Having this beautiful boy close to him, willingly in his arms, was the most
breathtaking and awe-inspiring experience in all his miserable life.
“I’m afraid it is necessary, Severus. Should Voldemort realize their mind link
is open again, he would use it against Harry. I was hoping he would occlude
heavily to prevent the boy from entering his mind, especially after what
happened in the Ministry. It seems I was mistaken. Either way, Harry needs at
least the basic shields to block his connection to Voldemort. You must help
him, Severus.” The headmaster was looking at him seriously, his eyes trying to
convey the importance of his reasoning.
 
Severus was torn. He understood the significance of having Harry’s mind
shielded from the Dark Lord but he was loath to endanger their relationship in
this early stage.
Albus took the potions master’s hand in both of his, peering into his eyes
intently. “If you explain it to Harry, he will understand. As I have told you
many times before, the boy is beyond selfless. He will not blame you for having
to invade his mind in such a way.”
Closing his eyes, Severus sighed. He was hoping to first lead Harry through the
relaxation and meditation exercises and only later slowly begin to aid him with
the shields. Now, they would have to dive right in. He would explain everything
to Harry either way but he was still apprehensive about the result.
“Very well, Albus. I will assist Mr Potter with his occlumency shields
tomorrow.” He answered somberly.
Albus patted his arm again as he led him to the fireplace. “I’m certain this
experience will only strengthen your relationship with Harry, my boy. You’ll
see.”
His eyes were twinkling again and he smiled, yet Severus has flooed to his
quarters with a deeply troubled mind.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
The next morning, Harry struggled to wake up.
Ron shook him a few times and even threw a pillow at him but Harry just
couldn’t open his eyes.
When he finally dragged himself out of bed, the breakfast was nearly finished
and the classes were about to start. Harry hurried through his morning routine,
pulling on his clothes haphazardly and throwing the books and parchments in his
backpack.
He made it to his first class just in time, running to sit down and earning
himself a stern look from professor McGonagall. He couldn’t talk to his friends
during the lesson but he quickly filled them in afterwards as they made their
way to History of Magic.
“I thought the visions have stopped, Harry!” Said Hermione in a hushed tone.
Their whole conversation was held in almost whispers for fear of being
overheard.
“I thought so, too.” Answered Harry, fumbling with his tie to make it straight.
“But the important question is, what is this voodoo stuff and why does
Voldemort want it?”
“I don’t know, voodoo is only briefly mentioned in History of Magic. We can
look it up later in the library.” Hermione had her ‘want to do research as soon
as possible’ face on.
Ron shook his head. “Voodoo was considered dark magic, I remember dad talking
about a big panic at the Ministry when someone heard muggles were freely
selling voodoo items on the streets. Turns out they were just some puppets that
were not magical at all. But the whole Ministry was in an uproar for days until
they cleared it up.”
“Yeah.” Nodded Harry. “Se… uh… Snape said that voodoo dolls were made up by
muggles.”
Harry blushed slightly when his tongue slipped up. He hoped his friends didn’t
notice.
“Right. If there’s anything about it in the library, it will be in the
restricted section. You’ll need a pass for that.” Said Ron to the bushy-haired
girl.
“Hm, I could maybe ask professor Vector, she gave us a rather complicated
homework exercise and I could tell her I need to check some facts in the
restricted books.” She replied with an impish glint in her eyes.
 
Harry has spent the History of Magic by laying his head on the desk and
catching up on sleep.
Walking to lunch with his eyes still half-closed, he grabbed Ron’s arm to avoid
bumping into walls. Once in the Great Hall, the boys attacked the food with
vengeance. Harry, because he missed the breakfast and Ron because he was always
hungry.
Glancing at the head table, Harry checked on Severus. The potions master seemed
to be in a bad mood, he was glowering and not eating at all.
When his eyes met Harry’s and his expression didn’t change, Harry looked away,
an unpleasant feeling tightening his stomach.
Staring at his plate, suddenly not hungry anymore, Harry sat still for a long
moment. When he finally dared to glance at the head table again, Severus was
gone.
Harry bent his head down and closed his eyes, trying to stop the tears that
were threatening to slip through. He was feeling miserable and even though he
tried to tell himself that Severus was probably just in a bad mood, he couldn’t
help but think it was somehow his fault.
 
He spent his free period after lunch in his dormitory, telling Ron he was still
tired and needed to sleep a bit more. The redhead stayed in the common room,
finding some poor soul who was willing to lose to him in a game of chess. Harry
was on his bed, curled up into a little ball and tried not to think. Which was,
of course, impossible as random images of Severus kept flashing in front of his
eyes.
With a deep feeling of dread, he made his way to the Potions classroom after
the break. He only half-listened to Ron’s chattering about Quidditch, he
ignored Malfoy’s taunts and slurs and only nodded to Hermione when she asked
him if he was alright.
 
Severus let them into the classroom, barked at them to continue with the
Polyjuice potion and sat down behind his desk with a stony expression on his
face.
It took Harry twenty minutes to gather enough courage and finally glance at the
gloomy potions master. Severus was reading some book and not paying any
attention to the class.
Harry kept glancing at him at random intervals, but the professor hasn’t looked
up even once.
Ten minutes before the end of the double period, Severus finally closed his
book.
“Clean up your work tables and leave your homework essay on my desk.” He said,
leaning back in his chair and surveying the class.
Harry finished the brewing and cleaning with his head down, feeling icy cold
despite standing next to a burning flame for the last two hours. He wasn’t sure
what to feel anymore. He was so happy with Severus just a few days ago, just a
few hours ago when he saw him last night, albeit briefly. Now he felt like they
were back at the beginning…
 
Lost in his thought, he placed the essay on the teacher’s desk and moved away,
only to somehow stumble and knock over a pile of books.
Severus glared at him. “Mr Potter, kindly clean up this mess. The rest of you
are dismissed, leave!”
Everybody hurried out the door, away from the cranky potions master, Ron and
Hermione throwing Harry a sympathetic look.
Picking up the books quickly, Harry piled them up on the table and turned to
leave.
 
“Harry.” He heard Severus say.
Harry stopped but didn’t dare to look up. He saw Severus’s black shoes as the
potions master came closer, suddenly feeling a hand lifting his chin up.
“What is it?” Severus asked in a soft voice, his face serious but no longer
glowering.
Harry shook his head, unwilling to speak for fear of tearing up again. Staring
into his eyes with furrowed eyebrows, Severus let go of his chin and stepped
back.
“You may leave if you wish. I will be expecting you at eight o’clock.” He said
in a formal voice, his face completely closed off.
 
Harry was looking at him feeling utterly lost. What had happened to create this
vast, cold distance between them?
When Severus turned to leave, Harry’s heart twisted in pain and he cried out.
“I’m sorry!”
Severus looked back at him, his stony mask still firmly in place. “What are you
sorry for?” He asked coolly.
Harry was biting his lip anxiously, trying to stop the tears but not being very
successful as he already felt them running down his face.
“I don’t know.” He said.
Severus’s mask broke a little and he looked at him confused. “You don’t know?”
“I’m sorry for whatever I did to make you mad. I didn’t mean to!” Harry closed
his eyes and prayed the ground would open up and swallow him whole.
 
Suddenly he felt two strong arms around him, pressing him against the hard
chest.
“You silly boy, I am not mad. I thought you understood we have to pretend to
dislike each other in public?” He heard Severus say.
“You were just pretending? But at lunch, you looked so… you looked at me like…
like you hated me again.” Harry hated that he sounded so vulnerable, starting
to feel like an idiot. “I’m sorry.” He whispered.
“Stop apologizing.” Severus moved back a bit, putting his hands on Harry’s
cheeks and wiping away the boy’s tears with his thumbs.
“I was being watched at lunch, I couldn’t risk showing you even the smallest
kind gesture. As you know there are a few children of Death Eaters in Hogwarts
and they report to their parents regularly.”
“Oh.” Was all Harry could say.
 
Severus pressed a soft kiss on Harry’s forehead and then on his nose, the dark
eyes no longer cold but shining brightly. At last, he kissed Harry on the lips
gently, just like last time.
Harry’s heart was filled with warmth and he returned the kiss, one of his hands
creeping up to play with Severus’s hair and the other one around his waist.
He felt light-headed in a good way, like he was floating again and when Severus
took Harry’s lower lip between his own and lightly sucked on it, Harry felt a
spike of arousal shot straight to his groin.
“Mmm.” He moaned a bit, his body pressing against Severus’s on its own accord.
Severus gently nipped Harry’s lip with his teeth, soothing it with another
tender kiss and then pulling away. Harry opened his eyes and saw Severus gazing
at his mouth, a heated look in his eyes.
“Beautiful.” The potions master murmured, pressing one more kiss on Harry’s
lower lip.
The teen smiled shyly, all the previous worry already forgotten. He was staring
into Severus’s eyes, feeling intensely happy and when the man caressed his
cheek with a small, but absolutely amazing smile on his face, Harry realized he
wasn’t falling anymore, he has already fallen.
He was in love with Severus Snape.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you all for still reading, commenting and kudos, you guys keep
     me going! ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 20 *****
 
 
Severus was once again in his quarters, waiting for Harry.
After their tender moment in the Potions classroom, he sent the boy to dinner
and asked a house-elf to bring him his own to his rooms. Harry’s reactions
today have had him perplexed.
At lunch, he had noticed the green-eyed boy come to the Great Hall and he
couldn’t help but look at him. However, he had noticed Nott Jr. watching him
openly, as he was wont to do every time he had to write the required letter
home.
Severus had kept his scowling mask firmly on his face, leaving the Great Hall
in his usual haughty manner.
During the Potions class, he set the students to work and sat down with the
book on voodoo magic he had brought from his personal library. Charming the
cover to prevent anyone from learning the true subject of the book, he immersed
himself in reading.
 
All the facts he had discovered so far pointed him in the initial direction. If
the Dark Lord truly wished to control and use the astral zombies in order to
gain power, he would need to carry these objects with him wherever he goes.
Closing the book just before the class ended, he observed the students clean
their tables, noticing that Harry hasn’t looked at him once. The boy kept his
eyes downcast, moving slowly as if lost in thoughts.
When he put his homework on Severus’s desk and turned to leave, the potions
master covertly pushed the pile of books, knocking them off the table. Sending
everybody else out of the room, he called Harry’s name yet the boy still
wouldn’t look at him.
Severus had feared the worst. Harry had already come to his senses, not wanting
to have anything to do with a morose older man who was too damaged to change.
Peering into the boy’s face, he regarded his pursed lips as he shook his head,
not even willing to talk to Severus. The potions master felt his heart breaking
into million little pieces.
 
He took a step back and closed himself off, firmly pushing all his emotions
behind the solid occlumency shields. He would deal with them later when he was
alone. Alone. Again. Always.
Then the boy blurted out he was sorry and Severus bristled. Of all the things,
he absolutely refused to accept the boy’s pity.
But Harry surprised him once again. Watching that beautiful face, tears
streaming down his cheeks and the eyes closed, hearing that he was afraid that
Severus was mad at him, feeling how much he wanted Severus when he hugged him…
Heart soaring and filled with the deepest kind of affection, Severus kissed
Harry and hoped to convey all his feelings through that simple gesture.
 
Severus glanced at the clock and sighed. Just a few more minutes and he’d have
the boy near him again. He only hoped that today’s lesson won’t destroy the
happy little world he seemed to exist in whenever he was with Harry.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Harry knocked on the door, completely hidden under his invisibility cloak. A
few Slytherins were roaming the dungeons’ corridors but luckily none of them
came near the potions master’s rooms.
The door opened and Harry sneaked in, brushing against Severus in the process.
He shook off the cloak, grinning at Severus like a loon. He had barely eaten at
dinner, his stomach too full of butterflies to accept food.
Patting his hair in a futile attempt to make it lie flat, he waited for Severus
to come closer.
“Hi.” He said with a wide smile.
“Hello, Harry.” Severus took his hand and led him to the couch.
 
Once seated, the potions master looked at him with a serious expression.
“Harry, professor Dumbledore believes it is of the utmost importance to shield
your mind from the Dark Lord. Given your vision last night, the link between
your minds is once more active and the Dark Lord can use it to gain a great
advantage. It is therefore paramount you begin to employ occlumency
immediately.”
Harry blinked a few times, bewildered. “Isn’t that why I’m learning to clear my
thoughts with relaxation?”
“Yes.” Nodded Severus. “And ideally we would have enough time for you to learn
how to control your emotions through the means of meditation. However, you need
the occlumency shields to stop the Dark Lord from accessing your thoughts and
you need them now. To wait much longer would present a significant risk that
the headmaster, and I must agree with him, is unwilling to take.”
“Oh, okay. But I tried to stop you every time you used legilimency on me and I
just couldn’t.”
 
Remembering his weak attempts to push Severus out of his mind, Harry wasn’t
sure how he should learn to use occlumency in one evening.
Severus took both of Harry’s hands in his own, staring into his eyes intently.
“The headmaster suggested I help you with erecting the occlumency shields. It
is a very difficult and invasive procedure. Essentially, you would have to
grant me a full access to your mind.”
Harry frowned, trying to make sure he understood him correctly. “So you could
put the shields in my mind for me? I wouldn’t have to do it myself?”
“To a certain extent, yes. I would construct the basic occlumency shields that
you can use to build on later when you are more skilled. The basic shields
wouldn’t stop an outright attack from an accomplished legilimens but they would
prevent the Dark Lord from accessing your mind through the link.”
Listening attentively to Severus and trying not to get distracted by his smooth
voice, Harry suddenly grinned. “Wicked! Snake-face won’t be able to get in my
head anymore!”
Severus looked taken aback by his outburst, raising an eyebrow at Harry. When
Harry shrugged innocently, the potions master smirked and muttered under his
breath. “Snake-face.”
 
However, his expression quickly turned serious again. “Harry, you have to
understand that I would need to be inside your mind. In order to successfully
erect the shields, I would need to be familiar with every hidden corner of your
mind. I would see all your memories, feel all your emotions, read all your
thoughts. It is not an easy feat to lay yourself open like that. Especially not
to someone like me.”
Severus closed his eyes and bowed his head, the long hair falling around the
potions master's face like a curtain. Harry observed him silently, the man’s
words echoing in his head.
He understood very well what he had to do and even a few days ago it would have
scared him immensely. But now he knew he was in love with Severus. He wanted to
share everything with him, good or bad. He wanted to give himself completely,
open to Severus not only his mind but also his body. Harry blushed at that
thought, pleasant shivers running down his spine when he imagined himself lying
naked in front of Severus.
Touching Severus’s cheek and pushing the long hair behind his ear, he said in a
soft voice. “I trust you.”
Severus opened his eyes and looked up, staring at Harry in awe. “Why?”
 
Smiling softly, Harry answered. “Because you realized I’m not my father and now
you see me like I really am. Not the famous Boy Who Lived, not The Chosen One,
not the Gryffindor Golden Boy. Just Harry. I can be just Harry with you.
Because even when you still thought I was an arrogant brat you always had my
back, saving my life many times. Because you let me see the real you if only a
little bit. Because when you kiss me, I feel like I’m flying and it is the most
wonderful feeling in the world. Because when I thought today that you were mad
at me, I felt miserable, like I would never be happy again. Because you make me
happy.”
Blushing fiercely, Harry looked down at their connected hands. He wasn’t sure
what Severus would think about his confession but he wanted him to know how he
felt.
All of a sudden, Severus kneeled down in front of Harry, gazing up at him with
bright eyes. “Thank you, Harry. I promise you, I swear to you I will never
betray your trust. I have hurt you many times in the past but I will do
everything in my power to never hurt you again.”
 
Bowing his head he pressed a kiss on Harry’s hands and then straightened up,
his face right in front of Harry’s. They both moved at the same time and their
lips met in a slow kiss, dancing together in a gentle, loving rhythm.
When Harry’s arms wrapped around Severus’s shoulders, the man leaned closer,
kneeling between Harry’s legs. Soon, the space between them disappeared
completely and they were moulded together chest to chest.
Harry whimpered when his arousal pressed against Severus’s stomach, opening his
mouth to let out a moan. He felt a gentle nip on his lower lip and then a lick
of a tongue, soothing the light bite. Harry’s tongue moved on its own accord
and the two tongues met, causing a shock of electricity run through Harry’s
body.
He shivered when he heard Severus let out a low growl and the man begun to
explore his mouth. Harry only vaguely registered two hands running up and down
his back, his whole focus was on Severus’s tongue.
His mouth was being invaded by a few gentle licks at first, his tongue coaxed
out to play. Then Severus started to delve deeper, making Harry feel light-
headed and incredibly aroused as the tongue danced inside his mouth.
Harry tried to reciprocate as best as he could but Severus was clearly
dominating the kiss. The feeling of being so wanted, so desired by this usually
reserved man exited Harry to no end.
All of a sudden, Severus’s tongue retreated from Harry’s mouth, making the teen
chase after it. That was obviously Severus’s intention as he captured Harry’s
tongue between his lips and sucked it firmly into his mouth.
Harry made a strangled sound in the back of his throat, hips jerking forward
involuntarily and creating a heavenly friction against the potions master’s
hard stomach. When a large hand cupped the nape of his neck and he felt a
particularly hard suck on his tongue, Harry’s vision went white as he was hit
with an intense burst of ecstasy. Waves and waves of enormous pleasure were
running through his body, shaking him uncontrollably.
 
Slowly, he became aware of two strong arms around him and opened his eyes.
Severus was gazing at him in astonishment, one of the hands softly petting
Harry’s hair.
The teen’s cheeks turned a fiery red, realizing he just came in his pants.
“I’m sorry.” He whispered embarrassedly.
“Shh.” Severus pressed light kisses on Harry’s flushed cheeks, pulling back to
look at him again. “You are so beautiful.” He murmured. “Seeing you coming
undone like this is the most arousing thing I have ever seen.”
 
Blushing again Harry smiled shyly, his heart filled with an intense joy.
Severus thought he was beautiful!
He was still embarrassed for coming in his pants and only from kissing! But
Severus didn’t seem to mind, holding him close and watching him with a small
smile.
After a while, Harry's pants started to feel sticky and he squirmed, wanted to
get rid of the uncomfortable feeling. Smirking slightly, Severus waved his wand
and cast a cleansing charm over him, making Harry blush once more.
 
Severus stretched his legs and sat down next to Harry on the sofa, pulling him
closer. He took the teen’s hand in his, entwining their fingers and peering at
him affectionately.
“Are you ready to try? I will touch the surface thoughts at first to let you
get accustomed to my presence in your mind. After that, I will access your
memories. If you want me to stop at any time, squeeze my hand as hard as you
can. Do you have any questions?”
Harry shook his head. “No. I am ready.”
“Very well.” Replied Severus, pointing his wand at Harry. “Legilimens.”
 
 
 
***** Chapter 21 *****
 
 
Harry sensed Severus’s presence enter his mind, immediately recognizing the
feeling from the previous occlumency lessons. Yet he noticed a subtle
difference.
The foreign mind had felt like an intruder before, entering his thoughts
without permission. Now it was more of a friendly visit, the presence flowing
through his mind with a light touch, almost a caress.
Severus surveyed his surface thoughts, stopping briefly at the memory of
himself during lunch. Harry could see everything that Severus was watching, yet
he felt strangely detached as if his emotions were already shielded by
occlumency.
After a while, Severus delved deeper and accessed Harry’s early childhood
memories.
Fascinated, Harry watched his mother give him a bath and his father chase after
him and his toy broomstick. Happy feelings flowed through these recollections,
innocent and carefree.
Happiness shifted into fright abruptly as Severus touched the memory of his
parents’ murder. The flash of green light and his mother’s screaming were the
only things he apparently remembered, just like when the Dementors were near.
 
Severus viewed his memories one by one, some of them crystal clear and others
vague.
His cupboard under the stairs, Dudley throwing things at him and beating him
up, aunt Petunia scolding him for burning breakfast when he was still too small
to reach the stove properly. Uncle Vernon yelling at him and locking him up in
his cupboard, uncle Vernon slapping him for standing in the way, uncle Vernon
hitting him so hard Harry fell down the stairs.
Aunt Petunia screaming at him because he got blood on her new carpet. Dudley
and his gang playing Harry Hunting, beating him up when they caught him. Uncle
Vernon slapping him for getting better grades than Dudley. Uncle Vernon shoving
him into his cupboard without supper.
The Hogwarts letters flooding the house. Uncle Vernon making the family leave
and hide on a small island. Hagrid finding him anyway.
 
Intense happiness enveloped Harry when Severus viewed his memory of coming to
Hogwarts. He watched his adventures with Ron and Hermione, his fights with
Malfoy, his first Christmas he ever got a Christmas present.
Severus moved further, browsing Harry’s memories of the Weasleys which were
accompanied by warm, content feelings.
Loving, happy memories of Sirius. Changing into despair after seeing Sirius
fall through the Veil.
 
Dark, troubled and scary memories of Voldemort. The face on the back of
Quirrell’s head. The monster drinking the unicorn blood. Voldemort in a weird,
reddish and scaly looking child-like form before his regeneration.
The snaked-face man holding Harry under cruciatus curse on the graveyard.
Possessing his mind at the Ministry.
 
Severus seemed to be jumping back and forth between the memories but perhaps
Harry’s mind was just too unorganized. Harry could feel his own frustration and
resentment when Severus viewed his summers with the Dursleys and the happiness
when he was finally allowed to leave.
A feeling of an intense hatred emerged with the memories of Umbridge. The blood
quill carving words in Harry’s hand. Umbridge almost casting cruciatus on him.
 
At last, Severus has found the memories of himself. Severus mocking Harry for
his celebrity status during his first Potions class. Calling him arrogant and
taking points. Severus giving Harry many detentions.
Glaring at Harry, scowling, sneering. Trying to get Harry expelled. Snarling at
Harry during the occlumency lessons. Throwing a jar of cockroaches at Harry
after the pensieve incident. Shaking Harry angrily and shoving him into a wall.
Harry’s feelings of anger, dislike, self-blame and sadness weaved through these
memories, strangely the sadness being the most prominent one.
The emotions changed again as Severus touched the more recent memories. Severus
apologizing to Harry in the hospital wing, Severus awarding Harry points during
Potions, Severus sitting at the head table, gazing at Harry.
Warm feelings of affection and desire flowed through Harry as he watched the
memory of Severus lying next to him, touching his hair and face, kissing him
for the first time. Severus lingered at the last memories of himself and the
feelings that accompanied them.
Harry once more felt the butterflies filling his stomach, the light-headedness
and the floating in the air feeling, the intense happiness and love. Love for
Severus.
 
Finally, Severus moved on again and Harry sensed him delving deeper still,
somewhere in the back of his mind.
Darkness. Malevolence. Hatred. Evil.
For the first time since Severus entered his mind, Harry got scared. He was
terrified, what was that thing? It felt so dark and sinister, not at all as a
part of Harry.
He panicked and started to tremble, squeezing Severus’s hand as hard as he
could.
When he felt Severus retreat from his mind, he looked at him wide-eyed. “What
was that thing? Did you feel it, too? It wasn’t me, I swear, I don’t know what
it was!” Harry was babbling, completely panicked.
 
Severus took Harry’s face in between his hands, making sure the teen looked him
in the eyes.
“Calm yourself, Harry. Take deep breaths just like you practised. That’s it,
breathe.” His smooth, calm voice helped Harry get a hold of himself until he
wasn’t panting anymore.
Severus let go of his face and hugged him close, gently petting his hair. “That
dark and malevolent presence that you felt is the link that connects you to the
Dark Lord. I confess I had not expected it would be so pronounced.”
Harry shuddered, burrowing his face in the potions master’s neck. “It was
horrible, almost like when Voldemort possessed me at the Ministry. Can’t you
get rid of it?”
“I’m afraid I wouldn’t know how. I will, however, set up the shields between
your mind and the link.”
“Okay.” Harry hugged himself closer to Severus, breathing in the potions
master’s scent.
“Tell me when you’re ready, Harry. You were doing very well, I don’t expect any
difficulties while erecting the shields.” Severus told him, pressing a light
kiss on Harry’s temple.
Harry nodded and sat up straight, looking at Severus with determination. “I’m
ready. I want to be shielded from that thing as soon as possible.”
“Good. Pay close attention to what I’m doing and try to duplicate my actions,
erecting your own shields. You should be able to sense the barrier I will
construct and add your own layers.” Severus lifted his wand again and waited
for Harry’s nod, then murmured. “Legilimens.”
 
Feeling Severus’s familiar presence enter his mind, Harry relaxed and followed
him as they weaved their way through Harry’s memories. Severus stopped just
before he reached the dark, sinister matter at the back of Harry’s mind.
Suddenly, Harry felt a warm, caring aura spread all around him, pushing the bad
feelings from the evil presence away. The aura was thickening, becoming more
solid with every second and Harry realized it was Severus’s shield being
erected.
He imagined softly pressing his palm against the barrier and was immediately
surrounded by an echo of Severus’s presence. The whole shield was imbued with
the potions master’s essence and Harry loved the idea of always being able to
feel Severus in his mind.
He tried to imitate Severus’s actions just like he was told, imagining a wall
being raised right next to the shield. When nothing happened, he tried again
but Severus’s barrier was still the only one there. Harry could feel Severus
move further away, strengthening the shield around the edges of Harry’s mind.
Feeling frustrated with his lack of success, Harry hugged himself close to the
barrier. He petted the invisible wall, enjoying having the echo of Severus’s
presence next to him when he suddenly noticed a thin mist floating around the
barrier. Concentrating on making the mist solid, he finally managed to add a
paper-thin layer to the shield.
Harry could feel Severus inspecting the barrier and then exit his mind.
 
Back in the sitting room, Severus was petting his hair again. The potions
master was gazing at him with a strange expression on his face, something like
worry flashing in his eyes.
“Are you alright?” Severus finally asked.
Harry smiled at him, feeling immensely content. He could sense the echo of
Severus’s presence in his mind, the barrier buzzing with warm and caring
emotions. “I’m fine. Just a little bit tired.”
Pressing a soft kiss on Harry’s forehead, Severus replied. “That is
understandable. Occlumency requires a great deal of practice and having the
shields erected by another presence in your mind is extremely invasive.”
“Hmm, it didn’t feel invasive with you. It felt nice.” Said Harry.
 
Severus was watching him with furrowed eyebrows, taking the teen’s hands in
both of his. “Harry, I want to apologize to you. I have been so blind in my
prejudice, seeing you only as a copy of your father, that I have failed to
perceive the hard facts that were right in front of me.”
Bewildered, Harry blinked at him. “What facts?” He had no idea what was Severus
talking about.
“The fact that every September you come to Hogwarts looking much thinner than
when you left for summer. The fact that both your parents were rather tall yet
you are the smallest amongst your classmates. The fact that when I overheard
you pleading with the headmaster to be allowed to stay in Hogwarts during
summer, I didn’t investigate your reasons and dismissed it as ramblings of a
spoilt brat. The fact that you seem to lack respect for the authorities. What I
believed was arrogance, was in fact self-preservation. And I of all people
should have realized the truth, Harry. Our experiences are frighteningly
similar.”
Harry was listening to him with a mouth open in astonishment.
 
Getting more agitated the longer he spoke, Severus stood from the sofa and was
now pacing the room.
“Umm, what exactly are you saying?” Harry carefully asked, not really sure why
was Severus getting so worked up.
“I have seen all the signs but I have failed to make the connection.” He
answered, running a hand through his hair. “Oh, Merlin, it is all perfectly
clear now. And my deplorable behaviour towards you only worsened the
situation.”
Harry stood up as well and walked to Severus, taking his hand. “Severus, what
do you mean?”
“Harry.” Severus embraced him and held him close to his chest. “I should have
realized you are a victim of child abuse.”
“What? No, I’m not!” Harry exclaimed, his voice a bit muffled as he was pressed
to Severus. He pulled himself back a bit, staring into the potions master’s
eyes. “I was not abused, my relatives just don’t like me very much. They didn’t
want to have me in their house because they are scared of magic.” He explained,
wishing Severus would stop looking at him like he was insane.
“Harry.” Severus once again took his face between his hands, peering into his
eyes intensely. “They were beating you, starving you, treating you worse than a
house-elf! They made you sleep in a cupboard under the stairs for Merlin’s
sake!”
Looking away from that intense stare, Harry started to fidget with his t-shirt.
“That was before Hogwarts, now they just mostly ignore me. And I got Dudley’s
second bedroom. And Ron and Hermione would send me food packages during the
summer so I usually have something to eat.”
“Harry, are you listening to yourself? That is not normal. I have seen your
memories, your bedroom door has more locks on it than the Dark Lord’s dungeon!
Those muggles are one hundred percent guilty and I will make sure they are
punished!” Severus was looking outright murderous and Harry got suddenly
scared.
“What are you going to do? You’re not going to hurt them, are you?”
Pulling Harry closer again, the potions master walked them back to the sofa. “I
will speak to the headmaster first. I will demand the reasons he had for not
visiting you at your relatives’ house and making sure you were well cared for.”
Harry sat down, looking up at the agitated man. “Umm, the headmaster already
knows. I have found out last year that my babysitter, Mrs Figg, was reporting
to him regularly. She lives near to my relatives.”
“Arabella Figg, the squib? Why would he leave you there if he knew…?” Severus
was regarding Harry with furrowed eyebrows.
“He said I was best protected at my relatives’ house because of the blood
wards. They need to recharge every year, he said.”
“Of course, the blood wards… still, he could have found a different solution.
But the headmaster never cared about an individual, always willing to sacrifice
others for the greater good.” Severus was talking to himself, lost in thought.
Suddenly, he looked up. “If the headmaster won’t act, I will punish them
myself.” He said with a dark look.
Squeezing his hand, Harry turned to him with pleading eyes. “Please don’t hurt
them! They might hate me and treat me badly but they are still my relatives.
Aunt Petunia is my only link to my mum. Please!”
 
Severus was staring into his eyes for a long time when he finally sighed,
gently caressing Harry’s cheek. “You are too selfless for your own good. Very
well, I won’t physically hurt them but there are a few spells that would make
their lives much less comfortable.” He raised an eyebrow at Harry in question.
Harry nodded, nuzzling into Severus’s hand. “Okay, you can hex them a little
bit.” He said with a sheepish smile.
“Good. I will ensure they cannot harm you again.”
 
Harry had a feeling that Severus had agreed with him a bit too quickly and was
being deliberately vague. The potions master was surely not going to restrict
himself to using only mild spells and hexes when going after the Dursleys but
Harry had decided not to analyze that thought too much.
Leaning into Severus, he closed his eyes, nearly purring when Severus once
again started to card his fingers through the teen’s messy hair.
 
 
 
***** Chapter 22 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus was furious. No, that wasn’t right. He was feeling outright murderous,
his insides boiling with rage.
After he viewed Harry’s memories of years-long abuse, he had to use every ounce
of self-control not to storm out of the castle and kill the fat pig that called
himself Harry’s uncle.
Only Harry’s presence stopped him. Holding the boy close to his chest and
occluding heavily to dull the intense emotions, he was able to think more
rationally and talk to Harry in a relatively calm manner. Though the boy’s
selflessness and disregard of his own worth were greatly pushing Severus’s
limits.
 
Watching Harry’s memories and feeling the boy’s emotions had once again left
Severus utterly perplexed. Even after being through so much at the hands of his
relatives, Harry’s feelings were those of loneliness, sadness, longing to be
loved and perhaps the smallest bit of resentment. Yet there was no anger, no
hate nor wish for revenge as Severus would have expected.
As he himself would have felt, as he himself had felt towards his abusing
father. He spent years fearing and hating his father, waiting for the day when
he would be finally strong enough or old enough to fight back. Severus had
created a spell to use especially on his father, one that would make the
monster feel all the pain he had ever inflicted on Severus all at once.
Unluckily, Severus never had the pleasure to find out just how well would his
spell work. His father had drunk himself to death a month before Severus had
turned seventeen. Attending the man’s funeral was one of the happiest memories
he ever had of his father, being free of the monster at last.
 
Yet Harry didn’t seem capable of feeling such dark emotions or at least not to
that extent. He had certainly hated Umbridge, but then the horrid woman was
easy to hate.
Severus recalled finding out about the pink toad using blood quill on students,
making them write lines in their own blood. It was her only luck that by that
time she was already locked up in St Mungo’s or Severus would have fed her some
of his self-brewed poison.
And then the memories of himself, as seen through Harry’s eyes. He had treated
the boy with utter disdain in his misguided quest to quell Harry’s arrogance.
In his preconceived beliefs, he hadn’t realized that the boy’s recklessness and
penchant for trouble were not the results of his self-importance but exactly of
the opposite.
Harry was the least selfish person he had ever encountered, willing to run
headlong into danger to help someone else.
What Severus found the most baffling was how Harry perceived and thought of
him. Five years he treated Harry horribly, picking on him and getting his
revenge on the helpless boy for the sins of Potter Sr.
Though Severus believed Harry had deserved some of the detentions he had
assigned him over the years, he admitted to himself that many were given out of
spite. Yet the boy, the beautiful green-eyed boy with a soul pure and clean
like a freshly fallen snow, held currently only warm and affectionate feelings
for Severus.
The older memories of him were underlined by a profound sadness, one that
Severus wasn’t as of yet able to fully comprehend.
 
How could Harry like him, the jaded and unpleasant man who was in many aspects
the exact opposite of the sweet and still innocent teen? Severus recognized he
was not worthy of the affectionate attention Harry had bestowed upon him, aware
of the fact that the boy would sooner or later come to his senses.
Still, he couldn’t force himself to forfeit what little time he had with Harry,
selfishly clinging to his little bubble of happiness.
 
Surprisingly, the relationship with Harry kept slowly but surely developing
into a truly committed one. The past weeks and months were marked by
familiarizing themselves with each other’s personalities, their interests and
expectations.
The sexual attraction between them was growing stronger as well but Severus has
never let it go too far. Desiring nothing more than to make Harry his in every
way, he was not willing to steal the boy’s innocence and have him later regret
it.
 
Walking through the icy corridors of the Hogwarts’ dungeons, Severus was on his
way to the headmaster’s office.
He had barely spoken to Albus these last few months since confronting the older
man about the abuse Harry was subjected to at the hands of his relatives. The
headmaster kept repeating the blood wards were affording Harry the ultimate
protection from the Dark Lord yet he was not able to offer any explanation of
his ignorance concerning Harry’s home situation.
Severus had accused him of treating people like chess pieces in his game for
the greater good and slammed the door behind him, not speaking to the
headmaster beyond his teaching duties.
 
Knocking on the door, he waited for an answer and entered the headmaster’s
office.
“Severus! Thank you for coming so quickly, my boy.” Albus beckoned him inside
from behind his desk.
“Albus.” Severus sat down primly on the appointed chair, his face
expressionless.
Regarding him with sorrowful eyes, the headmaster sighed unhappily. “I wish you
would stop avoiding me, Severus.”
When Severus didn’t react in any way, the older man continued. “I have spoken
to Harry a few times, his occlumency is steadily improving. I am most grateful
for your help, my boy.”
Severus could have been a statue, he sat unmovingly and watched Albus with cold
eyes. The headmaster sighed again, folding his wrinkled hands on the desk in
front of him.
“I have called you today to request your help with destroying two more of the
dark relics I have been fortunate enough to find. I have located them in the
most unlikely places if you are interested to know?”
He peered at Severus questioningly, clearly pleased when the potions master
subtly inclined his head. Opening his desk drawer, Albus took out a small
wooden box. He unlocked it, turning the open box towards Severus to show him
its contents.
Leaning in imperceptibly, Severus examined a delicate looking tiara with a
blue, oval-shaped stone and a heavy golden locket with a letter S in glittering
green stone inlay on the front.
 
“The Lost Diadem of Ravenclaw.” Albus pointed at the tiara. “It is the only
known relic once belonging to Rowena Ravenclaw and was thought to be lost for
centuries. How Voldemort found it I do not know but when he did he imbued it
with his own dark power, turning it to the same kind of relic as the ring we
have found and destroyed in the Little Hangleton. This relic he hid in a place
where one would never expect to look for it.”
Albus's eyes were back to full twinkling mode and Severus had to suppress the
urge to roll his eyes at the blatant attempt to pique his interest.
“Very well, I’ll bite. Where did the Dark Lord hide it?”
Albus spread his arms and exclaimed excitedly. “Here!”
Severus’s first thought was that he hasn’t had nearly enough coffee yet to deal
with the mad headmaster who seemed to be losing his marbles on a daily basis.
“Here.” He raised his eyebrow sceptically. “The Dark Lord has come over for tea
and left a priceless relic in your office? Did he by any chance mention his
newest voodoo obsession?”
“Now, my boy. There no need to be sarcastic. Voldemort had indeed come here,
many years ago when he was still a young strapping man. He had wished to apply
for the Defence Against the Dark Arts post but I had rejected his application.
I believe this was the last time he had stepped inside Hogwarts and perhaps
also when he hid the diadem within its walls. I have found it after a very
fortunate hint from Harry.”
The blue eyes were twinkling merrily at Severus’s astonishment.
“Pray tell how would Mr Potter know about a long lost diadem which no one has
seen in centuries?” Severus wasn’t in the mood for games, knowing that Harry
would have mentioned something this significant.
Albus chuckled happily, reinforcing the potions master’s opinion of his mental
health. “He didn’t know about the diadem, merely pointed me to a peculiar room
where one might find things that were thought lost. The Room of Requirement
would change into any room one might find oneself having need of. I assume
Voldemort thought he was the only one who had ever discovered and used the
room, deeming it a perfectly safe hiding place for his relic.”
“I see.” Severus already knew about the mysterious room as Harry had shared
some of his adventures with him. “And the locket?” He asked.
“Ah, that is another fortunate finding.”
 
Albus rubbed his hands together excitedly, reminding Severus of an old muggle
movie of a mad scientist cackling hysterically about one of his experiments.
“As you know, I have allowed Harry to spend the Christmas with the Weasleys on
the condition of staying under the Fidelius Charm at Grimmauld Place. Imagine
my surprise when upon visiting I have come across an argument between Molly and
Harry, who was defending the old house-elf Kreacher. Apparently, Molly was
trying to clean the house, throwing out everything she didn’t find useful and
Kreacher was attempting to stop her. Harry then came to his rescue, saying that
the house was the last thing he had left to remind him of Sirius and as he was
now the rightful owner, nothing would be thrown out without his express
permission.”
Severus nodded, having heard about the fight from Harry when he returned after
the winter holidays. Though they celebrated the Christmas apart, their reunion
was all the sweeter, spending the whole Sunday in Severus’s rooms talking,
kissing and cuddling (Severus would never admit this to anyone, but he loved to
cuddle with Harry).
“Kreacher had this locket in his possession and when I inquired about it, he
told me an interesting story. Sirius’s younger brother, Regulus Black, had
somehow found out Voldemort’s secret and attempted to take the locket from its
hiding place to destroy it later. He was, however, overcome by the relic’s
defences and unfortunately perished.” Albus was peering at him from above his
spectacles. “Kreacher had managed to use his elf magic and apparate away,
taking the locket with him. He told me he had tried to destroy it many times
but nothing would breach the heavy gold. I am hoping we shall be more
successful.”
 
Severus leaned closer to the desk, feeling the dark and sinister magic oozing
from the relics. Something about that ominous power felt vaguely familiar,
though Severus couldn’t recall why.
“I assume you’ll be using the sword again?” He asked, gazing at Albus with
raised eyebrows.
Albus nodded, standing up from his chair to get the sword of Gryffindor which
was displayed proudly above one of the bookcases.
“Indeed, my boy. This sword, goblin forged and imbued with basilisk venom, is
one of the few things that can destroy Voldemort’s dark relics.”
Severus stood up as well, moving the chair out of the way. Taking the diadem
out of the box, Albus conjured a small table and placed the relic in the
middle. Severus cast a strong shield charm all around them after casting
several spells to protect the headmaster’s office from any possible explosions.
Albus swung the sword just like that time in the shack and with one precise hit
shattered the Ravenclaw’s diadem. A deafening, inhuman scream pierced the room
and the broken diadem appeared to be discharging a dark blood-like substance.
 
“Well, one more to go.” Said Albus pleasantly as if he was talking about eating
lemon drops.
Carefully wrapping the broken diadem in a piece of cloth, he replaced it in the
box and took out the locket. Severus made sure the shield charm was still
holding and nodded to Albus to proceed.
Bracing himself for another shrill scream, Severus watched as the sword hit the
locket, knocking it off the table and across the room.
“Hm, this is unexpected.” Said Albus thoughtfully when he picked up the
undamaged locket. “It appears to be entirely intact, the sword didn’t even
scratch it. I’m afraid the locket can’t be destroyed this way.”
“Perhaps we should open it first.” Replied Severus, examining the locket as
well, its ominous magic swirling around them like a smoke.
The headmaster turned the glittering green stone letter S towards Severus.
“This locket was created by none other than Salazar Slytherin, to be passed
down his family line. He made sure only those of his blood could open the
locket and thus only a Parselmouth can open it.”
He looked at Severus with a small smile. “I’m sure this is one of the reasons
Voldemort had chosen it as well. At the time he had transformed the locket into
his dark relic he was the only known Parselmouth in Wizarding Britain, perhaps
even in the world. He would have been unbeatable if he didn’t choose to act on
the prophecy.”
Albus vanished the small table, taking the locket with him to his desk. He
peered at Severus knowingly, the blue eyes twinkling merrily.
“I believe Harry is spending his afternoon in the library. Shall we go find
him?”
Severus looked at him with narrowed eyes. The fact that Albus seemed to be
informed about everyone and everything within the castle’s walls irritated him
to no end.
“Very well.” He agreed, walking briskly to the door.
 
A short walk later they found themselves in the Hogwarts library, practically
void of students as most of the upper years were spending their day in
Hogsmeade.
Severus knew Harry has opted to stay in the castle and catch up on his
homework, not wanting to be a third wheel on his best friends’ date. Harry was
happy for his friends but confided in Severus that seeing them snogging on a
couch in the common room was beyond strange.
They found Harry sitting in one of the window seats, an open book on his lap
and a quill in his hand. He looked up when they came closer, beaming at Severus
as he greeted them.
“Professor Dumbledore, professor Snape! Hello.”
“Good afternoon, my boy. I see you take your studies seriously.” Albus was
twinkling at Harry with a pleasant smile.
Severus nodded to the messy haired teen, his face impassive but the dark eyes
warm. Noticing a small ink stain on Harry’s lower lip, Severus bit back a moan,
wanting to kiss that plump lip until the stain disappeared.
“Yes, sir, I wanted to get all my homework done before tomorrow.” Harry
replied, watching them questioningly. “Is there something you needed from me?”
“Indeed, my boy. Professor Snape and I require your assistance and unique
abilities, so to speak. If you wouldn’t mind accompanying us to that wonderful
room you told me about?” The headmaster stood aside, waiting for Harry.
“Oh, of course. I’ll just get my things.” Harry hastily put the parchments and
books in his backpack, standing up from the seat and stumbling over the table’s
leg. He bumped into Severus who steadied him with a smirk.
“Sorry, sir.” Blushed Harry, looking at Severus through his eyelashes.
He looked so innocent yet seducing at the same time that Severus suddenly felt
his blood rushing to his nether regions.
Sneakily petting the boy’s forearm, he answered. “That’s quite alright, Mr
Potter. Shall we?”
 
Harry nodded with a smile, his cheeks still flushed red. They followed the
headmaster to the seventh floor and waited as he summoned the room. Once
inside, they found themselves in a cosy sitting room, complete with squashy
couches and comfortable looking armchairs.
Albus put the Slytherin locket on a coffee table and beckoned Harry closer.
“This is a locket of Salazar Slytherin, Harry. Voldemort had used it in a dark
ritual, turning it into a very dark relic. It must be destroyed but so far
professor Snape and I were unsuccessful and we need your help.”
Harry was standing in front of the table, looking at the locket with wide eyes.
“It feels weird.” He said, holding one hand above the locket but not touching
it. “Like it’s alive and has a heartbeat. What do you want me to do?” He asked,
looking at Albus questioningly.
“Salazar Slytherin enchanted the locket so that only a Parselmouth can open it.
We need you to speak to it in Parseltongue when we tell you, alright my boy?”
The headmaster pulled out the sword he had carried under his robes and waited
for Severus to cast the shield charm again. Severus stood behind Harry, ready
to pull the boy out of the harm’s way should it be necessary.
He nodded to Albus and the headmaster nodded to Harry. “Alright, my boy.
Whenever you’re ready. Just open it and stand aside.”
Harry was staring at the locket, concentrating heavily. “Open.” He said.
“Still English, try again.” Murmured Severus, softly caressing the boy’s lower
back.
Harry bowed his head slightly, closing his eyes. When he spoke next, a low
hissing sound came out of his mouth.
The locket sprung open, revealing two, seemingly alive eyes looking back at
them from the locket’s picture windows. Severus put his arm around Harry’s
waist and pulled him back just as Albus swung the sword. The locket shattered
at once but instead of the expected scream, a black smoke rose from the relic,
hovering above the table and slowly forming a human-like figure.
The shadow drifted towards Harry, reaching for him with its smokey hands and
calling out in an anguished voice. “Brother!”
Severus took a step back, taking Harry with him and the figure disappeared into
thin air.
 
The silence in the room was deafening. Harry was staring at the destroyed
locket, Severus was staring at Harry and the headmaster was watching them both.
The moment the locket was open, Severus was once again assaulted by the
familiarity of that sinister magic. He had spent enough time in the Dark Lord’s
presence to recognize the dark wizard’s magic but this had felt slightly
different, darker still. Evil and malevolent, just as…
Severus’s eyes grew wide when his mind finally connected the dots. He had
sensed the same kind of magic at the back of Harry’s mind. Which indicated that
there was something inside Harry imbued with the Dark Lord’s evil magic.
Unbidden, the headmaster’s words echoed in Severus’s head. ‘All of these
objects must be destroyed before Voldemort can be vanquished. All of them,
beyond repair.’
Destroyed beyond repair.
Severus was staring at Harry, the beautiful boy who had stolen his heart. He
felt like he was being torn apart from the inside, wanting to grab Harry and
run with him far away.
He glanced at Albus who was watching him with sorrowful eyes, inclining his
head as if to confirm Severus’s suspicions.
“NO!!!” Screamed Severus, hugging Harry close to his chest as the room exploded
all around them.
For the first time since he was a teenager, Severus has lost control of his
magic.
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Can't say it enough, thank you all for reading, sweet comments and
     kudos!
     I really appreciate it ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 23 *****
 
 
Harry was staring at the strange locket, wondering why would the ghost-like
apparition call him brother when he was suddenly pressed against a hard chest.
Severus screamed and a mere second later a complete mayhem broke out.
The couches exploded, feathers and cushion fillings were flying in every
direction, the windows shattered, showering the room with broken glass and the
fire in the fireplace flared up so much it burned a part of the coffee table.
All the while, Severus was holding him tightly, bowed above Harry to shield him
with his own body. Confused, Harry peeked from under Severus’s arm at the
headmaster. The older wizard was standing on the other side of the room, a wand
in hand and a shield charm around him.
The chaos was over as suddenly as it has begun.
Sighing softly, Dumbledore cancelled the shield charm, waving his wand in an
intricate movement to repair the wrecked room.
Once done, he spoke in a soothing voice. “Severus, that was quite some display.
I didn’t believe you were still capable of accidental magic, my boy.”
Severus loosened his hold on Harry slightly, staring at the headmaster. “Is it
true?” He asked in a pained voice.
Harry looked up at him confused. He had a feeling he’d missed something,
especially when Severus and the headmaster seemed to be having a silent
conversation through their eyes.
“I’m afraid so.” Answered the headmaster at last.
Severus made a strangled sound, burying his face in Harry’s hair. Harry didn’t
know what was going on but he didn’t like it.
He turned to look at Dumbledore. “Umm, sir? What just happened?”
 
Dumbledore moved towards the repaired armchair, beckoning with his hand.
“Perhaps we should sit down and I will explain everything from the beginning. I
believe it is time you had both learned the whole truth.”
Severus moved them without a word, leading Harry to one of the couches. Sitting
down together, Severus left his arm firmly around Harry’s shoulders. Harry
didn’t mind though he wondered what the headmaster thought of their sudden
closeness.
“As you both already know, Voldemort had created several dark relics and imbued
them with his own magic.” Dumbledore’s words startled Harry out of his
thoughts. “These relics are the means of preserving his immortality. In other
words, as long as they exist he cannot die.”
“Is that what the locket was?” Asked Harry curiously.
Dumbledore nodded. “Indeed, my boy. I have been searching for these objects
ever since I suspected their existence. I wasn’t completely convinced Voldemort
has created them until you brought me Tom Riddle’s diary, Harry. The diary was
the first relic he enchanted, his first Horcrux.”
“A Horcrux?” Harry glanced at Severus but the potions master didn’t seem to
know what a Horcrux was any more than Harry.
Watching the headmaster intently, Severus asked. “How exactly do these relics
allow the Dark Lord to retain his immortality? What are they?”
Harry could feel how tense Severus was, sitting next to him. Over the past few
months, he’s learned to recognize most of the potions master’s moods but he has
never seen him this… worried, Harry finally decided was the right word.
“A Horcrux is an object in which a person has hid a part of their soul after
splitting it. That part is then safely concealed and even if one’s body is
attacked and destroyed, one cannot die, for part of the soul remains earthbound
and undamaged.” Explained the headmaster with a serious expression on his face.
Frowning, Harry asked bewildered. “How does someone split their soul?”
“By committing the supreme act of evil.” The headmaster replied and seeing
Harry’s confused face, he added. “Murder. A Horcrux can only be created after
committing a murder.”
“Oh. Well, Voldemort certainly doesn’t have a problem with that.” Said Harry in
a flat voice.
 
Severus didn’t move but Harry could feel the long fingers squeezing his
shoulder tightly as he asked. “And Harry?”
The teen turned his head rapidly. “What about me?” He asked but Severus didn’t
look at him, his eyes boring into Dumbledore’s.
“I believe by the time Voldemort had gone after Harry, his soul was already
highly unstable. Perhaps he had planned to create his final Horcrux with
Harry’s murder, perhaps it was an unfortunate accident but when the killing
curse rebounded, a shard of his soul split and latched itself onto the only
living thing left.” The headmaster inclined his head towards Harry with sad
eyes.
“Me?” Harry was gaping at him with an open mouth. “There’s a part of
Voldemort’s soul in me?” Immediately upon comprehending the truth, Harry felt
like he couldn’t breathe. His whole body started to shake, feeling like ice was
running through his veins and his vision went all spotty.
Strong hands pressed against his face, forcing him to look into Severus’s eyes.
“Harry, deep breaths, breathe with me. Breathe in through your nose, long
inhale, that’s it. Now breathe out slowly and again. Focus on your breathing,
focus on my hands touching your face.”
Severus was talking to him in a strong but soothing voice, calming Harry down
until the panic attack passed. When his vision fully returned and his heartbeat
slowed down, Harry buried his head in Severus’s chest.
“I’m sorry.” He mumbled, finding comfort in the strong arms that held him
tightly.
“Shh, there’s nothing to be sorry about.” Murmured Severus before speaking in a
cool voice. “You knew all this time, Albus?”
Harry didn’t look up but guessed that Severus was glaring at the headmaster who
answered in an apologizing tone. “I only suspected, my boy. With Harry being a
Parselmouth and receiving visions from Voldemort in a way that shouldn’t be
possible, I knew it was a great probability. However, I wasn’t entirely sure
until today. The Horcrux clearly reacted to the presence of another of its
kind.”
“Is there any chance you may be mistaken?” Asked Severus, carding his fingers
through Harry’s hair and massaging his scalp softly in a soothing manner.
“Unfortunately, no. You have felt the presence of the Horcrux in Harry’s mind
yourself. Luckily for Harry, the soul shard is so small it is unable to
interact with him. Apart from lending Harry the ability to speak to snakes and
enabling the connection to the main soul, it appears to be completely dormant.”
 
Turning his head, Harry peered at Dumbledore and found two blue eyes watching
him cautiously. “What will happen now? Can you get it out of me?” Harry asked
in a small voice.
He felt terrible, tainted by the dark presence within his mind. Severus held
him tightly, staring at the headmaster.
“There must be a way.” He said forcefully.
Dumbledore folded his hands in his lap and sighed. “Destroying the Horcrux is
only possible if the object containing the soul fragment is damaged beyond any
physical or magical repair. However…”
“What?” Harry interrupted him rudely, sitting up straight and staring at the
headmaster with wide eyes. “You mean I have to die to get rid of it?” He
started to tremble violently, on a verge of a second panic attack.
“No!” Exclaimed Severus, pulling Harry back against his chest. “I will not
allow that! I’d rather let the Dark Lord rule the world!” He said, scowling at
Dumbledore murderously.
The headmaster put his hands up in a surrendering gesture. “Now, my boys, calm
down. I was not in any way suggesting Harry’s untimely demise. As I was saying,
the objects must be destroyed, however, never before has there been a mention
of a human Horcrux.” Peering at them from above the half-moon spectacles,
Dumbledore continued. “I have begun researching possession by another spirit
after the unfortunate incident with the Riddle’s diary. As you both know, Ms
Weasley had been possessed by the memory of Tom Riddle, the sixteen-year-old
Voldemort. The soul shard concealed in the diary was large enough to be able to
drain Ms Weasley of her magical energy and thus gain enough power to obtain a
frail physical form. Should something similar happen again, I wanted to be
prepared. I have discovered an old journal that describes several methods of
banishing demons.”
Harry peeked at Severus who was watching the headmaster with narrowed eyes.
“How is that relevant to our situation?” Asked Severus, making Harry’s heart
melt a little.
 
Hearing he had a piece of Voldemort’s soul inside him, Harry was afraid Severus
would not want to be near him anymore. He felt unclean, tainted by Voldemort’s
evil magic and clung to the hope he heard in Dumbledore’s voice.
However, Severus referring to this mess as our situation showed Harry he wasn’t
going to be left alone.
“The journal documented an old practice that might be helpful. Many centuries
ago, when the divide between the dark and the light magic was not yet so
profound, many wizards and witches were dabbling into summoning lesser demons
to have them do their bidding. However, there’s a reason why it is considered a
dark practice nowadays. The demons were not easily controlled and often ended
up possessing the person who summoned them. The journal talks about a wizard,
Adalbert Sigeweard, who created a ritual to separate the demon soul from the
possessed individual. A banishing spell then sent the demon back where it came
from and the affected person was left unharmed.” Explained Dumbledore in a
lecturing tone.
Severus took Harry’s hand and entwined their fingers. “The Dark Lord is
obviously not a demon.” He said and continued, ignoring Harry’s cynical snort.
“The banishing spell, therefore, won’t remove his soul. I assume you have found
an appropriate spell?”
The headmaster smiled assuredly, the twinkle returning to his blue eyes. “I
have modified the banishing spell, though it is exceedingly complex. The spell
must be cast within seconds of the soul separating ritual which means the
timing is crucial. Also, this particular spell must be cast from within Harry’s
mind with the utmost caution to prevent accidental expelling of Harry’s soul as
well.”
Harry was staring at him with wide eyes. That didn’t sound like something he
was willing to try.
Squeezing his fingers tightly, Severus sneered at the headmaster. “You were
planning this all along, weren’t you, Albus? Pressuring me to teach Harry
occlumency to familiarize myself with his mind, encouraging my inappropriate
feelings towards a student to ensure your chess pieces moved in a way you
desired.”
Dumbledore’s eyes hardened a little, his voice offended. “Now, Severus, you
know very well there was no one else more suitable or capable of teaching
Harry. It was of the utmost importance he would learn how to protect his mind
from Voldemort. Furthermore, your resulting closeness to Harry is undoubtedly
beneficial to you both.”
 
Severus scoffed at him and Harry bowed his head, not sure if Severus was only
mad at the headmaster or if he felt his whole relationship with Harry had been
forced.
These last few months had been the happiest in Harry’s life, spending time with
Severus and getting to know the normally grouchy potions master, being able to
witness his softer side and enjoy the intimacy of their quiet moments.
 
All of a sudden, the headmaster stood up. “Come see me tomorrow, Severus. We
will study the ritual and the expelling spell together as they can’t be both
performed by the same person. The ritual also requires a special potion that
you will need to brew.” He said in a formal tone.
Stepping closer, he put his hand on Harry’s head, his voice softening when he
spoke next. “All will end well, Harry, don’t lose hope. Professor Snape and I
will do everything in our power to help you.”
Harry looked up at him and nodded, not sure what to say.
Severus was glaring at Dumbledore but inclined his head slightly in
acknowledgement of their future meeting. The headmaster then left, quietly
closing the door behind him.
 
Harry sat still, looking down at his hands and wondering if this was the end of
his relationship with Severus. That thought actually scared him more than
having a piece of Voldemort lodged in his head.
Suddenly he found himself in a tight embrace, with Severus’s face buried in his
hair. Hugging him back just as tightly, Harry mumbled against Severus’s chest.
“I’m sorry you were forced to teach me occlumency, to spend time with me.” He
whispered the last part sadly.
“Harry.” Releasing his hold a little, Severus lifted Harry’s chin, gazing at
him reverently. “I may have been pushed to teach you but I have never felt
obligated to spend time with you. Quite the opposite, really. I still find it
difficult to comprehend why you would save your affections for someone like
me.”
“I…”
Harry’s words were interrupted by a tender kiss, Severus’s hand softly
caressing his cheek. When they parted, Harry asked self-consciously. “You don’t
mind that there’s a piece of Voldemort’s soul in me? That I’m tainted by his
evil magic?”
“Don’t say that.” Severus held Harry’s cheek, looking into his eyes with a
burning intensity. “Harry, you are one of the purest, most virtuous people I
have ever known. If anyone is tainted in this relationship, it is me.” He said,
pulling up his left sleeve and showing Harry the Dark Mark.
“I am forever marked, carrying the evidence of my disgrace caused by my own
foolishness.”
Harry leaned closer, covering the Dark Mark with his hand. “I don’t see it like
that. I admire your strength and courage, going back to Voldemort regularly to
help the Light Side defeat him in the end. You are the bravest man I have ever
known.” He said sincerely, losing himself once again in those gorgeous dark
eyes.
“Harry.” Severus murmured, capturing the teen’s lips in a more heated kiss this
time, his tongue seeking the permission to enter Harry’s mouth.
 
Harry responded immediately, his lips parting as he let the questing tongue
dominate the kiss and taste him thoroughly.
Suddenly, Severus put his arms around Harry’s waist and pulled him in his lap,
making the teen straddle him. Harry moaned when their clothed erections met,
grinding down his hips against Severus’s groin.
Their kisses were getting more frantic now, exploring each other’s mouths
hungrily. Severus’s hands were roaming all over Harry’s body, slipping under
his t-shirt and caressing the flushed skin, eliciting loud moans and whimpers
from the aroused teen.
The kiss broke when Severus pulled Harry’s head to the side, nipping and
licking his way to Harry’s ear. Harry’s back arched in pleasure, the gentle
licks sending delicious shivers down his spine.
He knotted his fingers in Severus’s long hair, his head thrown back as he let
the older man taste his skin. When Severus reached Harry’s ear and sucked the
earlobe into his mouth, Harry moaned loudly, his hips thrusting in a more rapid
rhythm.
 
Severus groaned lowly at a particularly hard thrust, sliding his hands in the
back of Harry’s trousers and pants and firmly kneaded the teen’s bare buttocks.
Harry was beyond aroused now, Severus would usually end their make-out session
when it got heated like this but today he seemed to be unable to stop.
Releasing the teen’s earlobe, Severus once again covered Harry’s mouth with his
own, his hands squeezing Harry’s arse to maintain the fast thrusting rhythm.
Harry felt the strong hands holding and kneading his arse cheeks, the long
fingers slipping lower and lower, as far as they could go with Harry still
wearing his clothes.
When one hand managed to touch Harry’s balls and a long finger slid along his
crack in a soft caress, Harry let out a high keening sound and came harder than
ever before. His whole body shook from the intense orgasm, amplified by the
fact that Severus was still thrusting his hips against him.
Sucking Harry’s tongue into his mouth, Severus snapped his hips a few more
times before coming with a long groan. Harry watched fascinated as his face
changed in pleasure, the harsh features softening and making him look years
younger.
 
When they finally stopped moving, Harry slumped against Severus, feeling
completely boneless. He felt the hands withdraw from his trousers and a moment
later the tingling sensation of a cleansing charm on his skin.
They sat in silence for a long time, cuddling and enjoying the afterglow. The
hand carding through his hair suddenly stilled and Harry moved to be able to
see Severus’s face.
Severus was watching him with an intense expression, his dark eyes boring into
Harry’s.
“I love you, Harry.” He murmured unexpectedly.
Harry’s eyes went wide as he gaped at him in astonishment. A bubble of
happiness burst inside his chest, filling his stomach with butterflies and
leaving him completely light-headed.
His face lit up with the goofiest grin as he answered. “I love you, too,
Severus.”
 
 
 
***** Chapter 24 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus hurried out of the castle, his forearm burning painfully. It was the
first time he had been summoned since his unfortunate visit in September, the
Dark Lord perhaps giving him time to convince Dumbledore of his allegiance.
Apparating as soon as he left the Hogwarts wards, Severus followed the pull of
the Dark Mark all the way to the Dark Lord’s study. Not a full meeting then, he
mused when he entered the office, falling to his knees instantly.
“My Lord.”
Voldemort was sitting with a quill in hand, writing on a parchment so long it
was almost rolling off the desk. He didn’t look up but spoke in a quiet, high-
pitched voice.
“Severus. Any news from the old fool?”
“No, my Lord.” Severus glanced up covertly but Voldemort was still bent over
the parchment. “There has been but one Order meeting so far with nothing to
report. Dumbledore finds the lack of any Death Eater activity highly
unnerving.”
Making sure his occlumency shields were at their fullest, Severus pushed the
forged or edited memories and thoughts to the surface should the Dark Lord try
to test him with a surprise legilimency attack.
Voldemort chuckled softly and finally looked up, the red eyes glinting
malevolently. “Good. Let the old fool grow complacent and we will strike when
he least expects it! You will tell him I am biding my time and preparing an
attack on Hogwarts. That should keep him busy enough.”
“Yes, my Lord.” Severus bowed his head as a sign of servitude, speculating
about the Dark Lord’s true agenda.
 
Voldemort put his quill down and held out the parchment, beckoning Severus
closer. Not sure if he was allowed to stand up from his kneeling position,
Severus awkwardly shuffled to the desk. He was not about to risk getting hit by
cruciatus for walking upright.
“Here is a list of potions you will brew for me, Severus. You have one month to
complete this task. Should you fail, the consequences will be dire.” Said
Voldemort in that eerily quiet voice.
Severus unrolled the parchment, his eyes quickly scanning the potions’ names.
Healing and rejuvenating potions in large quantities, the strongest version of
a pain potion, numbing potions and an unknown potion which Severus didn’t
recognize.
“My Lord, this last potion is most unusual. Some of the ingredients will not be
easily obtained.” Trying to keep the curiosity out of his voice, Severus subtly
glanced around, memorizing the titles of books lying on the Dark Lord’s desk.
Voldemort narrowed his eyes and hissed angrily. “Are you questioning me,
Severus? Doubting your lord?”
He pointed his yew wand at Severus who bowed his head in submission. “No, my
Lord. I would never…”
He was interrupted by a hissed. “Legilimens!”
Gasping at the overwhelming presence in his mind, Severus pushed forth the
feelings of genuine curiosity, his thirst for knowledge and the passion for
brewing. He felt Voldemort withdraw after a while, exiting his mind in a
slightly less violent manner than before.
“I see you appreciate the challenge I have set before you. You shan’t be
punished for your professional curiosity, Severus. Serve me well and I will
provide you with the world’s rarest ingredients, allow you to brew the most
challenging potions.” Voldemort’s voice was quiet again, his temper seemingly
soothed by whatever he saw in Severus’s mind.
Severus bowed even lower, kissing the hem of Voldemort’s robes. “Thank you, my
Lord.” He said, infusing his voice with a false devotion.
 
“You may rise.” Voldemort stepped around him and walked to a black side table
standing under the window.
Following him with his eyes, Severus noticed a rather large package.
Voldemort picked it up carefully, holding it out to Severus. “Here are your
ingredients, my faithful servant. Use them well.”
“Thank you, my Lord. I will not fail you.” Severus took the package, schooling
his face into an awed reverence.
He startled when a bony hand touched his bowed head. Suppressing the shivers of
disgust, Severus stood quietly until the hand moved away.
“You may leave. You will bring the potions when I summon you next time.”
Voldemort returned to his desk, not paying the astonished potions master any
more attention.
Severus backed out of the room, silently closing the door and wondering about
the Dark Lord’s unusually cordial behaviour.
 
Pleased he hasn’t been cursed this time, Severus swiftly made his way through
the manor. He didn’t see any Death Eaters, not even Pettigrew and he soon
reached the edge of the wards.
Glancing around himself before apparating, he noticed that the village of
Little Hangleton was atypically dark, only a few lights flickering somewhere
far away. Curious, Severus cast a disillusionment charm on himself and walked
towards the village, the package with ingredients securely wedged under his
left arm.
The closer he got to the village, the colder the air around him. His breath
became visible, coming out in puffs of white mist and his fingers were quickly
becoming numb from the biting cold.
Suddenly, a feeling of an overwhelming despair threatened to breach his
occlumency shields and Severus became aware of the dark figures in hooded
cloaks, gliding noiselessly through the streets. He could hear their rattling
breaths, sucking in the air together with every good and happy feeling they
could taste in their surroundings. Without hesitation, Severus promptly
apparated away.
 
Back at Hogwarts, Severus stored the Dark Lord’s ingredients in his private
lab, once again reading through the provided list. The regular potions could
all be brewed within a few days, the unknown potion, however, had a brewing
time of three weeks.
The recipe was neatly written in the Dark Lord’s cursive handwriting. The name
of the potion was, on the other hand, unreadable.
Severus didn’t recognize the strangely coiled letters which appeared to be the
variations of only one sign.
Taking the list with him, he left his rooms and made his way towards the
headmaster’s office.
He still hasn’t forgiven Albus for his meddling tendencies even though Harry
had tried to convince him to focus on their resulting relationship. The boy was
too kind and Severus couldn’t help but appreciate his soft heart.
The heart that he had somehow won over, a fact that has repeatedly left Severus
speechless.
He’s been vigorously studying the spell that would expel the Dark Lord’s soul
shard from Harry’s mind and body, not allowing himself even the tiniest shred
of doubt that it might not work. Harry was trusting him, in more than one way
and Severus would give his last breath to fulfil the promise of never betraying
that precious trust.
 
Knocking twice before opening the door, Severus entered the headmaster’s office
and found himself face to face with the very object of his thoughts.
Harry was sitting on a visitor’s chair opposite of the headmaster’s desk,
grinning at him happily.
“Ah, Severus. Come in, my boy. Tea?” Asked Albus, summoning a second chair for
Severus.
“Albus. Harry.” Severus nodded to Albus and smiled softly at Harry, taking his
hand as soon as he sat down.
Harry beamed at him, his cheeks flushing prettily. The headmaster handed him a
teacup and refilled Harry’s as well.
“You look well, my boy. Any unfortunate consequences of your visit with
Voldemort?” Albus asked, sitting back down behind his desk.
Severus felt Harry squeezing his hand tightly, a worried expression on the
beautiful face. He caressed the boy’s palm with his thumb in a reassuring
gesture and turned to Albus.
“No, the Dark Lord was in a rather peculiar mood today. He even patted my
head.” Severus shuddered as he recalled that particular feeling and quickly
recounted his meeting with the Dark Lord.
“I then decided to investigate the village because such dense darkness was
surely not natural.” He continued with his story, having Harry’s and the
headmaster’s full attention. “I have quickly discovered the cause, the village
was infested with the Dementors. I have counted at least ten of them before
apparating away.”
Harry grimaced, a visible shiver running through his body. “Ugh, I hate those.”
He said.
Albus nodded at him understandingly and then his expression turned thoughtful.
“That is most unexpected.” He responded to Severus. “Voldemort must realize
they are near his manor which brings me to a conclusion that he has ordered
them there. But for what reason?”
Severus set down the teacup and reached into his pocket, pulling out a rolled
up parchment. “Your guess is as good as mine, Albus. Many of the potions the
Dark Lord ordered me to brew can be used to nurse back to full health someone
who had suffered an inordinately long exposure to the Dementors. He had
required similar potions before the mass breakout from Azkaban last year.”
Albus took the potions list, reading it carefully and making notes on a spare
parchment.
Harry was watching him with his head tilted slightly to the side, a gesture
Severus thought was beyond endearing when he suddenly blurted out. “Maybe he
wants to break out Lucius Malfoy! He probably misses the blond git.”
Severus turned to Harry with a small smirk on his lips, as always amused by the
boy’s penchant for speaking his mind in a blunt manner. Harry shrugged his
shoulders, grinning unapologetically.
“You know, my boy, you might be right. Lucius and his connections at the
Ministry, even after his imprisonment, could prove vital to Voldemort’s cause.”
Albus nodded at Harry, clearly impressed with the boy’s logic. “But what use
could he have for this mysterious potion? What do you deduce from the
ingredients, Severus?” He asked, handing the list back to Severus.
 
“It appears to be some kind of binding potion, the Ashwinder eggs are typically
used in love potions though that particular effect is here negated by the
dragon claw. My guess would be that upon a consummation of this potion the
drinker would gain the ability to bind someone or something to him. It appears
to be a one-way potion, possibly creating some sort of master and slave
dynamic.” Severus explained, frowning at the parchment on his lap.
He was shaken out of his thoughts by a hissing sound coming out of Harry.
Looking up at the teen, he raised an eyebrow questioningly.
Harry blinked at him. “What?” He asked, glancing at the headmaster and then
back at Severus.
Albus smiled, leaning forward in his chair. “My boy, you seemed to be speaking
in Parseltongue. I’m afraid we didn’t understand a word you said.”
“Really? I was just reading from that parchment.” Harry said, waving his hand
towards the list on Severus’s lap.
Severus suddenly understood why he didn’t recognize the strange squiggly
letters. The name of the mysterious potion was written in Parselscript, a
written version of Parseltongue.
“Harry, try reading it again and concentrate on saying the words in English.”
Severus squeezed the teen’s hand excitedly, eager to find out the potion’s name
and hopefully also its purpose.
Harry started hissing again, then closed his eyes and spoke slowly as if
translating the words in his head first. “The Houngan Potion of Stealing
Souls.”
 
Severus was staring at him, his mind sorting through all the information he has
so far collected since Harry’s dream vision of the Dark Lord.
“Houngan was a high priest of the voodoo. His main role was to maintain the
relationships between the spirits and the living. Some of the priests were
corrupted by their powers to contact the spirits and turned evil, becoming the
bokor sorcerers.” He said, thinking out loud. “It appears the Dark Lord has
overcome the problem of having to carry the astral zombies’ objects with him by
discovering this potion.”
Frowning, Severus recalled the books on the Dark Lord’s desk. “The Dark Lord
has been studying the Dark Arts of Soul Energy Absorption as well as the Book
of Bokor. I fear he is truly attempting to capture and enslave the souls of his
victims.”
Albus was peering at him with a serious expression on his wrinkled face. “That
is indeed extremely worrying. Soul magic is dangerous and to tamper with the
soul enslavement only shows the great lengths Voldemort is willing to go to.
Sadly, it is hardly surprising considering what he had done to his own soul.”
“Indeed.” Nodded Severus, glancing at Harry when he felt the teen fidget with
his fingers.
Harry’s forehead was furrowed as if he was trying to solve a difficult puzzle.
“But how does it work? And why would he want to enslave the souls of the dead
people?” He asked bewildered.
The headmaster smoothed out the parchment on his desk, writing down some more
notes and then looking up at Harry. “We can only guess at this point, my boy.
As Severus explained, the potion would enable Voldemort to bind the souls to
him. I assume he would need to use a spell or a ritual to actually make that
happen.”
“That still seems a little too far-fetched but you are probably right, Albus.”
Severus was once again contemplating everything he has learned about the
voodoo. “Nevertheless, I cannot fathom how he would solve the problem of having
to extract one soul at a time. To channel the multiple souls’ energy he would
need to contain them somehow.”
“Indeed, my boy. We have to prepare for all the possibilities and try to stay
one step ahead of him. If I’m correct in my calculations, two more Horcruxes
remain apart from Harry. One of them is Voldemort’s snake and would have to be
destroyed as last. Harry’s visions have confirmed this theory when he
experienced Arthur Weasley’s attack through the snake’s eyes.”
 
Severus inclined his head in agreement, giving Albus his full attention. Once
the Horcruxes were destroyed and the one in Harry expelled, the Dark Lord would
finally be mortal again. Severus realized that according to the prophecy, Harry
would have to be the one to deliver the killing blow. He couldn’t even imagine
what kind of impact would such an evil act have on Harry’s gentle soul but he
knew he would support the green-eyed teen all the way.
“And the other Horcrux?” He asked.
“Ah, that would be another of my theories that would perhaps soon be proven
right. You see, taking in consideration Voldemort’s obvious obsession with
Hogwarts, I believe he was trying to collect all of the relics of the Hogwarts’
founders. He succeeded in obtaining the locket of Slytherin, the diadem of
Ravenclaw and I suspect also the cup created by Helga Hufflepuff.” Albus’s eyes
were twinkling merrily as he winked at Harry.
“With Harry’s help, I was able to talk to Kreacher. The old house-elf is beyond
loyal to the Black family, however, he seemed to have recently developed a soft
spot for Harry and divulged that many years ago, Bellatrix Lestrange has been
given a small golden cup for safekeeping. She had been apparently boasting in
front of her family that she was the Dark Lord’s most loyal servant and he
honoured her by entrusting her this priceless relic.”
Harry snorted, muttering under his breath. “The most loyal and the craziest for
sure.” He grinned when Severus looked at him.
“Quite.” Replied Severus with a smirk of his own.
They were gazing into each other’s eyes, sitting so close together that their
thighs touched whenever one of them moved.
Severus studied the green orbs, even hidden behind the glasses still utterly
mesmerizing and felt the exciting tension starting to build between them. Harry
licked his lips and suddenly all Severus could think about was wanting to chase
that pink tongue with his own, to taste those delicious lips and make them part
in a breathy moan.
Softly caressing Harry’s hand, he ran his fingers over the thin wrist, gently
pressing against the pulse point. Harry’s heart was beating rapidly and Severus
longed to kiss the boy’s throat and feel that fluttering heartbeat pulsing
against his lips.
Completely lost in their own little world, they both startled when Albus
cleared his throat delicately.
“Well then, I believe we shall end our meeting here. Harry, please come see me
immediately when you hear from Kreacher. Hopefully, he’ll be able to find out
what Bellatrix did with the cup.”
The headmaster stood up and walked to the door, holding them open. “I wish you
both a pleasant evening.” He smiled, his blue eyes twinkling happily.
“Albus.” Severus inclined his head, letting Harry precede him out of the door,
his hand gently touching the teen’s lower back.
“Bye, sir.” Smiling, Harry waved and stepped on the circular staircase outside
the headmaster’s office.
They stood still as the moving staircase descended, Severus behind Harry and
the potions master suddenly didn’t want the evening to end just yet.
Leaning closer, he whispered into Harry’s ear. “Come to my rooms with me,
Harry. Just for a while.” He gently kissed the small ear, revelling in Harry’s
quiet moan.
“Yes.” Murmured Harry as he rested his head against Severus’s shoulder.
He looked so tempting, so beautiful and Severus couldn’t wait to worship that
beauty with his lips.
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     I'm sorry to end the chapter here but I will try to make it up to you
     in the next one :)
     Thank you all for your support, lovely comments and kudos ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 25 *****
Chapter Notes
     This is a shorter chapter, nothing really happens plotwise, just some
     slashy goodness :)
     Hope you'll enjoy it ♥
 
 
 
Severus led them through the castle’s hallways, walking slower than usual to
make sure Harry, who was hidden under his invisibility cloak, could keep up.
There weren’t many students loitering around this late on Sunday evening and
Severus and his invisible shadow soon reached the potions master’s private
quarters. Severus held the door open for Harry, following him inside.
“Hi.” Smiled Harry after pulling the cloak off, his hair even more adorably
messy.
Severus lay his robes over the back of an armchair and stepped closer, taking
Harry’s hand and pulling him to sit down on the couch.
“Beautiful.” He murmured as he softly caressed the teen’s flushed cheeks,
enjoying the warm skin under his fingertips.
Harry was looking at him, the green eyes shining like two emeralds in the half-
lit room, the flames from the fireplace reflecting on the lenses of his
glasses. Severus carefully took off the round spectacles, laying them on the
coffee table before softly tracing the teen’s face with fluttering kisses.
He kissed Harry’s forehead first, lingering on the jagged scar and pressing his
lips against the rougher skin repeatedly. Moving lower, he gently pecked both
closed eyelids, admiring the long eyelashes that were fanned out against the
flushed cheeks.
Severus worshipped Harry’s face with soft, barely there kisses and even after
almost six months together he still felt astonished that Harry had chosen him
of all people.
 
Finally pressing his lips against Harry’s, Severus’s left hand found its way to
the teen’s messy hair while his right arm encircled the slim waist. Pulling
Harry closer, Severus deepened the kiss and groaned at the sweet taste of
chocolate that Harry has been munching on in the headmaster’s office.
His tongue explored every nook and cranny of that sweet mouth, pleasant little
electric shocks running through his body whenever his and Harry’s tongues
touched.
Suddenly, Severus could feel two hands touching him, running up and down his
chest tentatively as if afraid he would slap them away. The thin material of
his shirt was the only barrier that separated him from Harry’s warm hands and
Severus groaned loudly when a finger lightly grazed against his nipple. Spurred
on by his reaction, Harry became bolder and increased the pressure of his
hands, one of them creeping suspiciously lower and lower.
Afraid he would lose his self-control if Harry touched his crotch, he lifted
the teen’s leg and pushed him lightly until he was lying down. Kneeling between
Harry’s legs, Severus carefully lowered himself to cover the teen with his own
body, his long legs hanging over the edge of the sofa.
Harry moaned when their erections met, arching his back and wrapping his arms
around Severus’s shoulders. They kissed again, more passionately this time and
Harry lifted his hips to create some friction between them.
Leaning on one elbow to keep his weight off Harry, Severus used the other hand
to explore the teen’s torso. His fingers easily slipped under the loose t-
shirt, making Harry moan and arch into his touch, the messy haired head tilting
slightly to the side and breaking their kiss.
Severus took this opportunity to worship the teen’s throat, pressing his lips
against the fluttering pulse point just like he wanted to do earlier. Kissing
his way down to the collarbone, licking the sensitive skin and eliciting
wonderful little moans and whimpers from Harry was turning Severus into a wild
animal. He could feel his arousal building steadily, thrumming through his
veins like a storm and clouding his mind with passion.
 
Wanting more still, he pushed Harry’s t-shirt up, revealing the taut stomach
and lean chest with two pink nipples hardened into little peaks. Severus
scooted lower, feeling Harry’s erection pressing into his stomach and brushed
his lips against one of the hardened nubs teasingly.
Harry shivered and bucked his hips and Severus repeated his action, this time
placing little playful kisses all around the nipple area. Harry was moaning
quietly, his hands tangled in Severus’s long hair and his hips thrusting up
against his older lover.
Severus groaned excitedly and unable to stop himself, he slowly let his hand
slide down Harry’s body.
Starting with a gentle caress of the beloved face, moving lower to brush
against the Adam's apple, down the middle of the lean chest and muscled
stomach, playfully dipping his finger in the belly button and eliciting a soft
giggle from the messy haired teen.
Only to be turned into a lustful moan when Severus finally palmed Harry’s
erection, rubbing it gently through the teen’s trousers. Harry’s hips bucked
again as Severus explored the hard length with his fingers, squeezing and
rubbing it teasingly until he felt Harry pulling on his hair.
“Please.” The teen whimpered, his whole body arching towards the other man.
Severus captured the luscious lips again, swallowing Harry’s moans when his
deft fingers unbuttoned the teen’s trousers and slid inside his pants.
Severus nearly exploded himself when he touched the silky skin, so hot and hard
against his palm. He could feel the tip slick with pre-come, rubbing his thumb
around it in small circles. Harry was moaning continuously now, his legs
subconsciously spreading further apart to let Severus closer.
The potions master was clinging to the last vestiges of self-control, wanting
nothing more than to rip the teen’s clothes off, swallow him to the root and
make him come, milk him dry to the last drop and then bury himself in the
teen’s tight heat.
Groaning, he let his head drop against Harry’s chest, taking one nipple into
his mouth and nibbling on it teasingly. His hand was flying up and down the
teen’s silky arousal in a rapid rhythm, his own hips firmly pressed against the
cushions he was lying on.
He felt Harry’s hands grip his shoulders tightly, the blunt nails biting
through his shirt but the slight pain only increased Severus’s desire to
experience Harry writhing underneath him as he claimed the teen’s most secret
place.
 
Harry bucked his hips again and then stilled and Severus knew he was getting
close. Lifting his head, he watched with fascination as Harry’s body arched in
a taut bow, his face scrunching in pleasure and lips parting to let out a long,
keening moan as he spilt himself all over Severus’s hand.
Severus held him close, his hand still moving to prolong Harry’s orgasm as much
as possible. When the teen finally stilled, Severus gently withdrew his hand.
Harry was watching him with half-lidded eyes, looking completely relaxed as he
lay there with a silly smile on his face. Holding the green eyes with his own,
Severus slowly lifted the sticky hand to his mouth, licking his fingers off one
by one.
Harry’s mouth fell open in wonder and he watched Severus avidly, the green eyes
darkening with renewed passion.
Once his hand was clean again, Harry pulled him down to a passionate kiss,
moaning when he tasted himself on Severus’s tongue. Severus startled when a
hand fumbled with his fly.
He grabbed the teen’s wrist to stop him, murmuring softly. “You don’t have to.”
Harry was gazing at him intensely, his pupils dilated in desire. “Please, I
want to touch you, too.” He whispered.
 
Severus was still rock hard and the whispered confession only caused more blood
run towards his crotch. Releasing the teen’s wrist, he watched Harry’s face
heatedly and groaned when the questing fingers reached his erection.
The first touches were tentative, gauging his reactions and Severus leaned his
head closer, hiding his face in Harry’s hair and moaning softly into the teen’s
ear.
He felt the small hand envelop him in a firmer hold, starting to pump him in a
steady rhythm. Severus was already embarrassingly close, teetering on the edge
of orgasm ever since he first touched Harry’s silky hardness, fitting so
perfectly into his palm as if they were always meant to be together.
Harry wriggled under him, scooting a bit lower and Severus was about to ask if
he was too heavy when he felt a second hand worming its way into his pants.
Leaning on his elbows and panting heavily, Severus felt the curious fingers
softly graze against his balls, the blunt fingernails gently scratching and
sending delicious shivers down his spine. Severus moaned louder, his hips
rocking on their own accord and pushing his rock hard arousal through the
circle of Harry’s hand, already completely wet from the copious amount of pre-
come.
Severus groaned when the fingers pressed against his perineum, his heavy balls
resting on the small palm and moved his head to kiss Harry again, his tongue
imitating the rocking motion of his hips.
Harry moaned into the kiss, doubling his effort as he pumped Severus rapidly
and soon Severus felt the tingling sensation that started in his belly and
slowly spread itself through his whole body.
With a moaned ‘Harry!’ he came, shooting his load all over Harry’s hands as he
kept thrusting his hips until the end. Only then, completely spent, did he stop
moving and lifted his head to kiss Harry tenderly on the lips.
 
“Thank you.” He murmured, gently caressing the teen’s soft hair.
Harry smiled into the kiss, his eyes bright and shiny, watching Severus with a
loving expression on his face.
“I love you, Severus.” He whispered and Severus’s heart soared again, filled
with joy and happiness and most importantly with love.
His love for Harry.
“I love you, Harry.” He replied, pressing another kiss to those tempting lips.
After a few more gentle kisses, Severus cast a cleansing charm on them both but
not before Harry licked his fingers tentatively, tasting the salty fluid.
Severus watched him hungrily, memorizing the image for later and smirked when
the teen nodded his head approvingly.
 
Later, they lay on the sofa, facing each other and exchanging little kisses and
gentle touches, huddled together under a blanket Severus had summoned to keep
away the dungeon’s chill.
It wasn’t long before they both drifted off to sleep, never noticing the old
house-elf that popped into the room and left a small golden cup in the middle
of the coffee table.
 
 
 
***** Chapter 26 *****
 
 
Harry stirred when he felt a hand combing through his hair. Stretching out
lazily like a cat, he blinked sleepily at Severus.
“Wake up, Harry. You need to return to your dormitory, it is well past your
curfew.” Severus handed him the glasses and helped him sit up.
“Okay.” Mumbled Harry with a jaw-breaking yawn.
Blinking owlishly to clear the sleep out of his eyes, he took in the potions
master’s unusually dishevelled state. The memory of their earlier activities
flashed through Harry’s mind and he smiled, his heart bursting with love.
“Come, I will walk you to…” Severus turned away from the couch and froze,
making Harry jump up in worry.
“What? What is it?”
He stood next to Severus, anxiously watching his face and then following his
line of sight. He didn’t see anything suspicious at first but then his eyes
fell on a small golden goblet in the middle of the coffee table.
“Is that…?” Scrunching up his face, Harry leaned closer and studied the
engraved badger on the side of the cup. Two yellow gemstones replaced the
badger’s eyes, glistening in the light of the fireplace and enhancing the
overall golden look of the small goblet.
Humming softly, Severus also leaned closer. “Indeed, the cup of Helga
Hufflepuff. Perhaps you should call your house-elf back, he appears to be more
efficient than I would have suspected.” He quirked an eyebrow at Harry, making
the teen chuckle.
 
“Kreacher!”
A soft pop announced the old house-elf even before Harry managed to pronounce
his whole name.
“Master Harry.” The elf bowed and looked up with an indulgent expression on the
wrinkled face.
Ever since Harry stood up for him, Kreacher has found a new purpose in life.
Dressed in a clean, crisp white tea towel with a small emblem of the Black
family on the left side of his chest, Kreacher was the picture of a pureblood
family house-elf.
And even though his most beloved Master Regulus was dead, the old house-elf
recognized many similarities between him and master Harry, thus deciding to
adopt his new master and serve him well.
“Hello, Kreacher.” Harry smiled at him, seeing Severus subtly roll his eyes.
The potions master often commented on Harry’s unique friendship with all house-
elves, making a quick visit to the Hogwarts’ kitchens virtually impossible
because Harry would stop and talk to every one of them.
“Thank you for bringing the cup so quickly. Where did you find it?”
Kreacher sniffed slightly, bowing down to tie Harry’s shoelaces and muttering
something under his breath.
Glancing at Severus with a puzzled look, Harry startled when Kreacher’s magic
straightened his clothes. “Umm, sorry Kreacher, I didn’t understand what you
said?”
 
Severus stepped closer to Harry, towering above the old house-elf in a
distinctively menacing way until the teen took his hand, pleading with his
eyes. He knew the potions master loved to cow others into submission but he had
a feeling it would not work with Kreacher.
Rolling his eyes again, Severus sat down on the sofa with a huff.
The house-elf glared at the potions master’s feet before turning back to his
master. “Kreacher has followed Mistress Bellatrix to her new home but the
mistress is not having any important possessions there. All her valuables be
locked in her vault in Gringotts.”
Harry gaped at him, astonished. “You broke into Gringotts? Wicked!”
“Don’t be absurd, Harry. Gringotts is heavily guarded and impossible to break
into.” Scoffed Severus.
Harry looked at him with a righteous indignation. “Not impossible! Voldemort
did it before my first year! He tried to steal the Philosopher’s Stone but
Hagrid took it out of the vault earlier that day. I know it, I was there!” His
temper flared up but died again just as quickly when Severus pulled him into a
side hug.
“My apologies.” He whispered into the teen’s hair, pressing a soft kiss against
his temple. “I stand corrected.”
Glancing to his left, Harry could see Severus was watching him with a small
smirk, apparently more amused than upset by his reaction.
 
Harry blushed, looking back at Kreacher. “Sorry, Kreacher. You were saying?”
“Mistress Walburga was often bringing Kreacher to Gringotts and when she
couldn’t walk anymore, she be sending Kreacher alone to pick up things for her.
Master Harry is being the Head of the House Black now and all main vaults are
open to him and the vault of Mistress Bellatrix is just next to one. Kreacher
be popping in and out quickly until he be finding the cup for Master Harry.”
The house-elf explained, all the while trying to polish Harry’s scuffed
trainers.
Harry didn’t have the heart to tell him the muggle shoes were strangely
resistant to magic.
“So a house-elf can just pop into Gringotts without any trouble? How come more
people don’t use this to break in?” Harry asked, bewildered.
It was true that many wizards underestimated the house-elf magic but still, he
would have thought somebody would have figured it out by now.
Severus shook his head, answering thoughtfully. “I don’t think that is quite
how it works, Harry. I am fairly certain Kreacher had to be attuned to the
Black family vault before he was able to enter it at will.”
Kreacher bowed when Harry looked at him questioningly. “Mistress Walburga had
cut Kreacher’s hand and his blood was tied to the Black Family gold. Kreacher
may only enter the vaults and take out money or items with his master’s
permission. Without permission the blood curse kills Kreacher.”
“Oh.” Harry didn’t much like the sound of that. “So you can’t enter any other
vaults? How did you get into Bellatrix’s then?”
“Kreacher can only enter the Black’s vaults of Master Harry but Kreacher was
being in the vault of Mistress Bellatrix before when she was needing help
bringing in many golds. Kreacher’s magic remembered the way and the blood curse
be not activating there.” The house-elf looked quite pleased with himself.
Harry looked at him in horror. “You risked your life not knowing if the curse
will or will not kill you?”
“Master Harry be needing the cup. Kreacher is getting the cup for Master Harry.
Master Harry is happy?” The old house-elf seemed to be getting confused and
Harry felt Severus squeeze his hand.
“Yes, Kreacher, your master is very happy you have found and brought the cup.”
He said, nudging Harry slightly with his elbow.
Harry blinked and smiled at Kreacher again. “Yes, Kreacher, thank you! But next
time, please come to me before you risk your life. I don’t want you getting
hurt or worse.” He gently patted the surprised elf’s shoulder, dismissing him
quickly before the poor creature had a heart attack from being handled as a
wizard’s equal.
 
“Well, that went well.” Said Harry when Kreacher disappeared.
“Quite.” Smirking, Severus made them stand up and ushered Harry to the door,
picking up his invisibility cloak on the way. “Hurry up to your dormitory,
Harry. I will take the cup to Albus, he will make sure it’s dealt with
quickly.”
Pressing a gentle kiss on the teen’s lips before throwing the cloak over his
head, Severus opened the door to let Harry leave.
“Good night, Severus.” Whispered Harry and stepped into the drafty corridor.
Just before the door closed behind him, he heard a softly murmured. “Good
night, beautiful.”
Harry raced towards the Gryffindor Tower with a silly grin on his face.
 
The next two weeks were fairly uneventful for Harry. He attended classes,
visited Severus for his occlumency lessons and a little private together time
afterwards and spent the rest of the time with his two best friends who were
slowly driving him crazy.
Though Ron and Hermione were dating now, they were quite happy to include Harry
whenever they were studying (which was a lot because Hermione wouldn’t let them
slack) or just hanging around.
They kept badgering him about his secret boyfriend and his identity and Harry
could already recite their arguments word by word.
“Come on, mate, why can’t you tell us? It’s been months already!” Ron would
say, trying to sway Harry with a puppy-eyed look.
“You know we can keep a secret, Harry. It’s not like we are going to announce
your relationship at the Great Hall during dinner or something.” Hermione tried
to reason with him logically.
 
But Harry was unbreakable. As much as he loved his friends and wanted to share
everything with them, he wouldn’t risk Severus’s life for his own selfish
little needs. He was hoping that one day if he’d survive the last fight with
Voldemort, he would tell them the whole truth.
He couldn’t even confide in them about the soul shard hidden inside of his own
very soul for fear of that information somehow getting to Voldemort.
And so he put up with their questions, managing to distract them most of the
time and enjoying the carefree conversations about Quidditch with Ron and
accepting the help with homework from Hermione.
 
On a Saturday morning, almost two weeks after Kreacher brought him the
Hufflepuff’s cup, Harry was on his way to Severus’s quarters.
The potions master had asked him to come down the previous evening when he once
again spent almost an hour strengthening Harry’s occlumency shields and
familiarizing himself further with the teen’s mind.
Harry knocked on the dark door, slipping inside as soon as it opened. Severus
greeted him with a quick kiss and led him towards his private lab.
“Come, Harry. The potion is almost ready for your contribution.” The potions
master’s long robe billowed behind him as he quickly entered the small lab.
He had several cauldrons set up and brewing, most of them the standard size or
just a little bit bigger. One cauldron, in particular, captured Harry’s
attention, standing on a side table and surrounded by a visible containment
shield the potions masters used while brewing the most delicate or volatile
potions. The cauldron was yellowish white and looked almost wooden and Harry
was sure he has never seen such a strange cauldron before.
Severus must have noticed him looking because he stopped him from coming
closer.
“That is the potion for the Dark Lord.” He said, glancing at Harry carefully.
“Oh.” Harry nodded, remembering the conversation in the headmaster’s office.
“The soul stealing one? What kind of cauldron is that? I thought wooden
cauldrons are not good for potion’s making?” He asked curiously.
Severus regarded him with an unreadable expression on his face, though his eyes
softened when they met Harry’s. “Indeed, The Houngan Potion of Stealing Souls.
The brewing process is extremely complicated and the potion requires a unique
environment to ripen. Specifically, the human bone.” He watched the teen’s face
closely.
Harry felt his eyes grow wide as he comprehended the words. “You mean, that
cauldron is made of bones?” Just when he thought Voldemort couldn’t get any
creepier.
“Yes, human bones, the cranium to be exact. Two skulls were merged together,
ground and polished to create a bowl-like shape. Only the darkest of potions
are brewed in these and even the possession of a skull cauldron is punishable
by an extended stay in Azkaban.” Severus spoke in his lecturing voice but Harry
wasn’t fooled, he could see how much it bothered the composed potions master.
“I hate Voldemort for making you do this. I wish we were rid of him already.”
Harry hugged Severus tightly, breathing in the comforting scent of spicy
oranges and dark chocolate.
Severus hugged him back, kissing the top of his head and then turning him
towards the main table.
“This is the potion Albus will use during the soul separating ritual. You will
need to add exactly seven drops of your blood when I tell you. Be very careful,
the smallest mistake may alter the function of the potion entirely.”
Harry nodded, watching the dark brown potion bubble slowly as Severus adjusted
the heat.
 
The potions master had already explained this potion was needed during the
ritual which the headmaster would perform to separate Voldemort’s soul shard
from Harry’s own soul.
The headmaster would drink the potion and enter some sort of meditative state,
enabling him to see the astral plane while still staying inside his physical
body. He would then perform the ritualistic separation of the souls, cleansing
Harry’s soul of all parasitic influences.
Harry’s blood in the potion would ensure the right soul was being cleansed. As
soon as the ritual was complete, the headmaster would signal Severus and the
potions master would enter Harry’s mind, casting the expelling spell on the
loose soul shard.
Dumbledore had explained to Harry he had already prepared a special ritual
chamber for them to use, casting all sorts of shielding spells to prevent the
expelled soul shard from latching on someone else.
Harry’s head was spinning by the time his two professors stopped talking,
trying to understand all the information and not panic at the same time.
 
He startled out of his thoughts when Severus handed him a small silver dagger.
“Just a small cut will suffice. Remember, no more than seven drops.”
“Okay.” Wincing from the sharp cut, Harry held his left hand above the cauldron
and counted out loud when the blood started dripping. “… five, six, seven!”
Quickly pulling his hand away, Harry watched fascinated as the potion changed
from dark brown to bright red.
Severus kept stirring the potion, altering between clockwise and anti-clockwise
until the colour changed again, this time to dark red. Lowering the flames, he
covered the cauldron with a lid and stepped away from the work table.
“The potion needs to simmer for exactly seven days now. After that, it will be
finished.” He said, taking Harry’s hand and healing the cut with a wave of his
wand.
“Thank you.” Harry smiled, leaning his head against the black-clad chest. “So
next week this time we will be ready for the ritual?”
“Indeed. The headmaster wishes to perform the ritual at sunset as it signifies
the promise of a new beginning. The astral plane would also be the most
accessible during that time.”
“Okay. Just one more week before I’m free.”
Harry turned around, burrowing his face into the dark robes as he hugged
Severus again. He felt two strong arms embrace him, one of the hands gently
carding through his hair. Severus didn’t speak but Harry guessed what he was
thinking.
Until Voldemort was dead, neither of them were truly free.
 
 
 
***** Chapter 27 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus carefully sealed the small crate, making sure to apply an unbreakable
charm on the vials as well as on the packaging. All the potions for the Dark
Lord were now finished and ready to be delivered. Severus suspected he would be
summoned sooner rather than later, but he hoped the Dark Lord would indeed wait
the whole month before requiring the potions.
Glancing at the almost empty work table, Severus thoughtfully studied the three
vials laying there. The dark red coloured potion reminded him too much of blood
and he sighed, closing his eyes for a short moment.
Tonight Albus would perform the soul separating ritual and Severus would have
the tremendous responsibility of expelling the Dark Lord’s soul from Harry’s
body and mind. Thinking about the boy had filled his heart with joy and
trepidation in equal measure. He was highly apprehensive about casting the
difficult spell from within Harry’s mind, an ominous feeling of dread running
through him ever since he woke up that morning.
 
Carefully picking up the three vials, Severus made his way to the headmaster’s
office. Stalking through the hallways, he didn’t encounter many students as the
majority was enjoying their free weekend in Hogsmeade.
Severus thought about Harry, probably holed up in the library again to allow
his best friends the privacy on their date. Perhaps he would look for him after
his talk with Albus, a quiet afternoon with Harry would certainly work miracles
towards soothing his frazzled nerves.
Knocking on the door, he entered the headmaster’s office. Albus was sitting
behind his desk, a large tome open in front of him with a stack of parchments
next to it.
“Ah, Severus. I am reviewing the ritual one more time before tonight. I have
already informed Minerva we will not be attending dinner at the Great Hall. If
you would be so kind to retrieve Harry and meet me down in the ritual chamber
at five o’clock. The ritual will start at five-thirty and shouldn’t take more
than ten minutes if there aren’t any complications. Then it will be your turn.”
Peering at him from above his spectacles, Albus’s face was kind yet serious at
the same time.
Severus frowned. “Do you expect complications, Albus?”
“It is best to be prepared for every possibility, my boy. Harry has lived with
a foreign soul entwined with his own for fifteen years, we can only guess how
it will react to our attempts to remove it.” Replied Albus solemnly.
Inclining his head, Severus pulled out the vials. “Here is the ritual potion,
Albus. You have two spare vials should they be required. All of them are
unbreakable and charmed to open only to your or my magical signature.”
“I see, my boy. A necessary precaution?”
“The potion contains Harry’s blood as you are well aware. It would not be
prudent to endanger his life by being needlessly careless.” Folding his arms
across his chest, Severus stared at the headmaster with cold eyes.
Harry’s blood falling into the wrong hands would have disastrous consequences
and Severus couldn’t help but feel extremely defensive. The feeling of dread
seemed to be intensifying with every passing minute, putting his already
frazzled nerves on edge.
Albus nodded, carefully placing the vials into his robe’s pocket. “Of course, I
understand completely, dear boy.” He said, standing up and walking towards the
door, beckoning Severus to follow. “We still have several hours before sunset,
shall we go to the Great Hall for lunch?”
 
Severus spent the whole lunch staring at the Gryffindor table, waiting for the
appearance of the messy haired head but Harry never showed up. Barely eating
and occluding heavily, he tried in vain to push away the apprehension and the
sense of foreboding that filled him every time he thought of Harry today.
Hissing in pain suddenly, he grabbed his left arm as the Dark Mark activated,
burning through his skin like fire. He was about to inform Albus when Minerva’s
Patronus reached the head table, galloping towards them in high speed.
 
 
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Harry woke up to something tickling his foot. Pulling it under the covers, he
giggled when the tickler attacked his other foot instead. He tried to roll away
but didn’t get a chance as his best friend suddenly plopped down on his bed.
“Wakey wakey, Harry! Come on, it’s a Hogsmeade day!” Ron called excitedly,
stealing Harry’s pillow from under his head.
Harry laughed, trying to shove Ron off the bed. “Arrghh, get off, you beast!
Don’t you have a date with Hermione?”
“Sure I do!” Replied the redhead, grinning at Harry’s feeble attempts to shake
him off.
“Well, then, go! You don’t need me there, I’ll just hang around here and see
you guys when you get back. Bring me some chocolate!” Harry finally managed to
sit up and grab his glasses from the nightstand.
“Nope, no can do, mate. You have to come and get it yourself.” Standing up, Ron
took Harry’s hand and pulled him upright. “Come on, chop chop! Go take a shower
and get dressed, we’ll wait for you in the common room.”
Harry regarded him dubiously. “Are you sure, Ron? I don’t want to mess up your
date. I don’t mind staying here, honestly.”
Stepping closer, Ron ruffled the already messy hair. “Of course I’m sure.
Hermione and I might be dating but you are still our best friend, Harry. You
said it yourself you can’t be seen with your mystery boyfriend yet and we don’t
like the idea of you being here in the castle all alone. So come with us, we
can hang around, do some shopping and if you want, you can return to the castle
after lunch. That way I’ll still have a couple of hours alone with Mione.
Alright?” He was watching Harry with a pleading look.
“Oh, alright then.” Harry nodded with a big smile, pleased that his friends
would still find a way to include him in their relationship.
“Good! Now hurry up, I’m starving and the breakfast is almost over!” Ron shoved
him towards the bathroom unceremoniously, laughing when the messy haired teen
flipped him off.
 
The Hogsmeade Village was bustling with life. Hogwarts students were roaming
the narrow streets, laughing and joking with their friends, many of them taking
the advantage of the unseasonably warm spring day to occupy the benches spread
around the small village square.
Harry, Ron and Hermione joined their fellow classmates and were soon caught up
in a heated debate about which shop they should visit first. Harry and Ron
finally overruled Hermione and dragged her along to the Honeydukes.
The little sweet shop was completely packed, forcing the trio of friends to
slowly move with the crowd. Harry felt Ron pull on his sleeve.
“Look over there, Harry! They have the Exploding Bonbons again, do you want to
get some?”
Harry nodded eagerly, remembering the dorm competition they had held last year.
Whoever would fit the most of exploding bonbons into their mouth would win a
large bag of the Honeydukes finest chocolate and sweets. The absolute winner
was, in the end, Seamus whose experience with explosions gave him just enough
advantage to not shy away from the food blowing up while he ate it. The other
boys had crowned him a winner after the Irish boy fitted eight bonbons into his
mouth, having to spend a whole weekend in the hospital wing while a grumbling
Madam Pomfrey healed and repaired his taste buds.
Hermione was shaking her head as the boys grabbed several boxes of Exploding
Bonbons, letting the crowd push them further into the shop. Harry picked up
some Sugar Quills (always handy during a long study session), Chocolate Frogs
and a bar of the Honeydukes Finest Dark Chocolate which was Severus’s
favourite.
After spending almost an hour in the sweet shop, the three friends had decided
to visit the Zonko’s next. Of course, the boys had to promise Hermione they
would go to a bookstore after that.
The joke shop was only slightly less crowded and the friends had spent most of
their time browsing the newest items.
 
Harry had suddenly had a feeling of being watched and looking around, he spied
a small group of Slytherins on the other side of the shop. He recognized Pansy
Parkinson and Theodore Nott but didn’t know the three older teens standing
behind them.
Shaking off the strange feeling, he turned back to Ron and Hermione and was
soon lost in their friendly banter.
Tomes and Scrolls, the Hogsmeade bookshop, offered them a small reprieve from
the crowds, leaving Hermione ecstatic when she discovered the newest Arithmancy
book. She spent some time perusing the books but agreed to join the boys for
lunch after Ron pretended to faint from starvation.
“You had breakfast not even three hours ago, Ron.” She tutted, fondly rolling
her eyes at the redhead.
Ron grinned, putting an arm around her shoulder. “I’m a growing boy, Mione.
Besides, you said it yourself that we need to make sure Harry eats more.”
“Oi!” Harry exclaimed. “I eat enough! Just because I missed dinner a couple of
times…” He grumbled under his breath and then squeaked when Ron suddenly picked
him up like a toddler.
“You see? I could just carry you around and not even get tired.” Ron laughed
and set Harry down once they were out of the shop.
Harry stuck his tongue at him. “That’s because you’re secretly a part giant. Or
maybe a troll.” He ran away from the redhead’s reach, snickering.
 
All of a sudden, two arms grabbed him, pulling him into the dark alleyway
between the shops. Before he could even reach for his wand, Harry found himself
under the full body-bind curse. Unable to move yet still fully conscious, he
could hear his friends shouting his name and then arguing with someone.
A crack of apparition sounded somewhere behind Harry, making the person that
held him turn him around.
“Potter, this is your lucky day. You get to meet my father.” A voice whispered
in his ear.
The dark-clad figure came closer, lowering the cloak’s hood. Harry was staring
into a cruel face of an older man he didn’t recognize, that is until the man
spoke.
“You have done well, Theodore. Return to the school to keep up appearances. I
will take this mudblood off your hands.” He sneered at Harry, grabbing his arms
and turning him roughly, his own arm pressed around Harry’s neck.
 
The wicked sneer on a gleeful face of Theo Nott Jr was the last thing Harry saw
before his world went dark.
 
 
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
 
Severus stood from his chair, staring at the silvery cat that raced towards the
head table. As soon as it reached the headmaster, Minerva’s voice rang through
the Great Hall.
‘Harry Potter has been abducted from Hogsmeade. Suspected Death Eater activity.
I am returning to Hogwarts with the rest of the students.’
Severus felt as if the ground fell from under his feet. No, not Harry! Turning
to Albus, he spoke through the gritted teeth due to the increasing pain in his
marked arm.
“I am being summoned Albus, I fear the worst.”
The headmaster’s solemn face mirrored his. “Go, Severus. I will gather the
Order and follow you.” He said, quickly casting a tracking charm on one of
Severus’s buttons. “I will do everything in my power to save Harry, I promise
you that.”
The blue eyes regarded him seriously, trying to convey the sincerity of that
statement.
Severus nodded, unable to find his voice as his heart constricted in pain. He
had to save Harry, had to make sure the boy would get out of this mess alive
even if Severus had to die to make it happen. Using the castle’s shortcuts, he
hurried to his quarters to pick up his cloak and the potions for the Dark Lord
and then raced towards the Forbidden Forest, apparating as soon as he left the
wards.
Concentrating on his dark mark, he apparated to the Dark Lord’s current
location, all the while praying that Harry was still alive.
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Thank you all once again for reading, commenting and kudos ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 28 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Severus landed in a large clearing surrounded by seemingly dense woods though
upon a closer inspection he noticed the dark figures hovering amongst the tall
trees. The Dark Lord was standing on the right side of the clearing, the few
members of his inner circle who were not dead or imprisoned humbly waiting for
his orders.
The gleaming red eyes turned to Severus and he fell down on his knees as soon
as he was just a few feet away.
“My Lord.” Bowing his head, he quickly scanned the clearing for any sign of
Harry.
“Severus.” The Dark Lord hissed his name angrily. “Have you come empty-handed?”
Cautiously reaching into his robes’ pocket, Severus took out the enchanted
crate. “No, my Lord. I have brewed the required potions, my Lord.” He held the
crate in front of his face, eyes not lifting from their downcast position.
“Good. You may rise.” The red eyes watched him unnervingly as he offered the
crate to the Dark Lord and then joined the rest of the Death Eaters.
 
They were not wearing masks today though Severus would have known their
identities even if they were. The cackling Bellatrix Lestrange was impossible
to miss as well as the cowering Peter Pettigrew.
The Carrow siblings were wearing identical expressions of worship whenever they
looked at the Dark Lord and disdain whenever they looked at anyone else. And
finally, the towering presence of Thorfinn Rowle, an enormous, muscled blond,
could hardly ever be overlooked.
The Dark Lord was inspecting the contents of the crate, picking up the vials
one by one and observing them closely as if judging their quality. Severus
sneered mentally, he was not the youngest potions master for nothing. All of
his potions were of superior quality.
He was getting restless, where was Harry? It seemed that the Dark Lord didn’t
have him after all but then, where could he be? He knew the Dark Lord would
take a great pleasure in gloating and torturing the boy if he ever captured
him; something that Severus had always hoped to prevent.
He was startled out of his worries by a high-pitched, gleeful voice. “My
friends, today shall be marked in history as a day of great significance for
the Dark Side. Not only will we free our imprisoned brethren from Azkaban, but
today, your Lord will become the greatest sorcerer of all times!”
Bellatrix flung herself at the Dark Lord’s feet, reverently kissing the hem of
his robes. “My Lord, you are the greatest! The greatest of them all!”
The lipless mouth stretched in a parody of a smile, the bony hand patting
Bellatrix’s wild hair twice. “Yes, my dear Bella, the greatest of them all.”
With a wave of his hand, he beckoned Bellatrix back to her place. “Today, you
will be privileged to witness your Lord’s ascension to power for your Lord is
the only one willing to exploit the very darkest of magic, to push the
boundaries no one has ever dared to cross before. And today, the Light Side has
provided me with the ultimate sacrifice.” Cackling maniacally, he pointed his
wand and with the slightest motion lifted the invisibility spell he had
apparently cast before.
 
There, precisely in the middle of the clearing, stood a small, stone altar. Not
much larger than a regular coffee table but high enough to be comfortably used
while standing, the sides of the altar decorated with a number of carved runes.
Yet that was not the reason why Severus’s blood suddenly froze in his veins. In
front of the altar lay an unmoving body of Harry Potter, his unruly hair fanned
out on the dewy grass. Standing above him, a wand pointed at the boy’s head,
was Thaddeus Nott, the face twisted into a cruel sneer.
“Rejoice in the triumph of the Dark, my friends! Today I shall fulfil the
prophecy and become undefeatable!” The Dark Lord walked towards the altar
nonchalantly, rolling the yew wand between his bony fingers.
Nott didn’t move from his guarding position but acknowledged his master by a
deep bow, earning himself a pat from the skeletal hand.
“You and your son shall be justly rewarded, Thaddeus. You have served me well.”
“My Lord.” Presenting his master with a wand, presumably one belonging to the
boy he captured, Nott bowed again and retreated to join the rest of the Death
Eaters standing on the side.
 
Severus was watching the proceedings with an impassive face yet his insides
were a raging inferno of emotions. Pushing the mind-numbing fear behind the
occlumency shields, he scanned the whole area once again, rapidly assessing his
options.
First of all, he needed to get closer to Harry. The altar was standing at least
fifty feet away and right now the Dark Lord was blocking the boy’s body with
his own. Severus realized he wouldn’t stand a chance in an outright fight. The
Dark Lord was a master duelist, not to mention Severus would be severely
outnumbered. He could only wait and hope that Albus and the Order would arrive
soon.
“Harry Potter.” The high-pitched voice carried across the clearing. “The Chosen
One. You will not thwart my plans today.” He cackled menacingly, laying the
boy’s wand on the stone altar along with something else.
Even from afar, Severus recognized one of his potion’s vials. The Dark Lord
must have lifted the body-bind curse from Harry because suddenly the boy’s legs
twitched, his body rolling to the side in an attempt to sit up.
Bellatrix clapped her hands enthusiastically. “Wakey, wakey, Potty baby!” She
laughed, her eyes wild and crazy as she hopped towards the altar.
The rest of them followed her, unwilling to miss the show or in Severus’s case,
wanting to get closer to Harry.
 
The Dark Lord seemed undisturbed, walking around the altar as if he’d just
decided it would be a perfect time for a little leisurely stroll. He hissed
something in Parseltongue and the tall grass under the trees started moving,
slowly revealing his slithering familiar. Nagini glided forward almost
noiselessly, her dark scales shimmering in the afternoon sun.
Having walked a whole circle around the altar, the Dark Lord finally stopped in
front of Harry, looking down at the boy who was stiffly trying to stand up.
Just as he pushed himself to his feet, a cold voice hissed viciously.
“Crucio!”
Alarmed, Severus watched Harry’s body twist under the curse, falling back down
on the ground when his feet slipped on the damp grass. Bellatrix was jumping up
and down gleefully, cackling like the mad woman she truly was. The other Death
Eaters were standing by with wands in their hands, perhaps hoping they too
would be allowed to torture the famous Boy Who Lived.
Lifting the curse, the Dark Lord observed Harry with gleaming red eyes, his
lipless mouth stretched into a sneer.
“Behold the Saviour of the Light!” He said in a mocking tone, clearly enjoying
Bella’s cackling laughter that followed his words. “The Chosen One laying at my
feet at last.”
“Only because you’re a coward! Attacking me when I don’t have a wand!” Harry
shouted, making the Dark Lord’s eyes narrow dangerously.
If Severus wasn’t consumed by the mind-numbing fear of losing the boy, he would
have admired his courage to stand up to the Dark Lord.
Scrambling to his feet, Harry tried to stand up again only to be hit by a leg-
locking curse coming from one of the Death Eaters. Stumbling, he fell down on
his back, his head missing the sharp corner of the stone altar only by a
miracle.
 
The Death Eaters howled with laughter and Severus had to hold himself back with
all his might, wanting to kill them all and make sure no one could hurt his
Harry ever again.
The Dark Lord, however, was not amused, hissing a cruciatus at Rowle. “Harry
Potter is mine! You are not to touch him! I will be the one to kill him when
he’s served his purpose!”
Falling to his knees and bowing low, Rowle’s forehead touched the ground.
“Forgive me, my Lord.”
 
A sudden flash of red light interrupted whatever was to be said next, narrowly
missing the older Carrow sibling. As one the Death Eaters turned towards the
trees where the spell came from, their wands ready to fight. Another spell hit
its target but unfortunately, Nott was already protected by a shield charm and
the spell dissipated harmlessly.
The Dark Lord lifted his hand, making a strange, round waving motion and the
shadowed forms hovering in the woods glided forwards, covering their
surroundings in darkness.
The Dementors, realized Severus as they moved along the edges of the clearing,
looking for the victims they could rob of their happiness. Someone screamed and
many shouts were heard and Severus used the current distraction to get closer
to Harry.
He was still several feet away when the Dementors returned, a white, blurry
shapes chasing after them.
“The pesky Order with their pesky light spells! Alecto, your arm!” Hissed the
Dark Lord, pressing his wand into her dark mark and summoning the lower ranking
Death Eaters. Soon, the clearing was full of dark cloaked, white-masked
figures.
“Go! Kill them all!” He ordered, hissing something to his familiar.
The Death Eaters broke into smaller groups, some already duelling with the
Order members hidden behind the trees, some following the others deeper into
the woods. The Dementors glided after them, momentarily hindered by the
Patronus spell only to pursue their chosen victims as soon as the spell ended.
Severus pretended to fight as well, firing non-lethal spells towards the trees
and all the while slowly inching back to Harry. He was suddenly stopped by a
loud hissing sound, the Dark Lord’s snake baring its poisonous fangs at him,
ready to strike.
The Dark Lord turned his wand at Severus when Albus appeared on the edge of the
clearing, a strong shield charm around him deflecting all the curses from the
Death Eaters.
“Tom!” He called. “It is me you want to kill, let the boy go!”
“Dumbledore.” The snake-faced man sneered. “You are too late. The prophecy
shall be fulfilled today.” With a wave of his bony hand, he summoned one of the
Dementors to the altar, running his wand along the carved runes.
 
A dark blue beam rose from the stone table, slowly spreading and covering the
middle of the clearing in a shimmering, dome-like shield.
Severus, unable to get to Harry because of Nagini, flicked his wand to cancel
the leg-binding curse. “Harry! Run away! Quickly!” He shouted, hoping Harry
would be fast enough to escape the shield before it touched the ground.
Harry tried to roll away from the altar but Nagini was faster, pinning him down
with her vast weight and hissing angrily.
The blue shield closed down, effectively silencing the world around them and
shutting off the sounds of the ongoing battle. Severus and Harry were trapped;
the Dark Lord, his snake and the sole Dementor their only company.
 
Dodging the first two curses that the Dark Lord fired at him, Severus cast a
shield charm around himself only to have it shattered by a strong blasting
curse. The backlash from the curse disrupted his balance, making him stagger
backwards into the shimmering barrier behind him. The next curse hit Severus
square in the chest.
“Crucio! You traitor, I have always suspected you, Severus. Now Dumbledore can
watch both of his pets die tonight!” He cast the spell, again and again until
Severus felt like his whole body was on fire, his limbs shaking uncontrollably.
Severus registered Harry calling his name but was unable to answer him, his jaw
clenched shut to prevent himself from screaming. He must have fallen
unconscious at some point because when he awoke next, the Dark Lord had moved
behind the altar; Harry laying on the ground in front of him like an offering.
Harry was breathing heavily, his arms and legs twitching and Severus realized
the boy has also been subjected to the cruciatus curse. It pained him to see
Harry like this and the sheer helplessness of the situation was driving him to
madness.
Concentrating on moving the right arm, he was hoping to feel his wand that had
fallen out of his hand during the last bout of cruciatus but it was all in
vain. His limbs were still too affected by the extremely painful curse.
 
Not paying him any attention, the Dark Lord started to talk to Harry in a
quiet, pleased voice. “Harry Potter. You were once the cause of my downfall but
today you will help me achieve an unimaginable greatness!”
“You will never be great. Just evil.” Said Harry, his voice hoarse and quiet.
Baring his sharp teeth, the Dark Lord sneered. “No, Harry. I once told you,
there is no good or evil, only power and those too weak to seek it. I am not
weak and I have always sought new sources of power and at last, I have
discovered the ancient secrets of the voodoo.” He beckoned the Dementor closer
before he continued. “You are familiar with the Dementors, aren’t you, Harry?
Did you know they were originally created by a dark sorcerer to serve as a
torturing device, rendering his victims unable to flee or fight back? I have
studied them diligently, such fascinating creatures.” The Dark Lord petted the
slimy-looking, scabbed hand of the hovering Dementor and Severus shuddered in
disgust.
“I have discovered that the souls of their victims stay trapped within the
Dementors’ bodies, making them the perfect containers of an unused soul energy!
My next quest was to find a way to harvest that energy and turn it into a pure
power; a power so great, none in this world can compare to. You see, Harry, you
will add to that power exponentially, such pure, light and strong soul.”
Cackling menacingly, he picked up the potion vial, showing it to Harry.
“With this potion, I will become the master of the Dementors. Their dark
affinity makes them susceptible to the commands of the dark wizards, however,
only their true master will be able to extract the souls stored within their
bodies. And yours, Harry, will be the first I will harvest.”
“No…” Coughing, Severus willed his arm to move, blindly patting the ground and
searching for his wand. Every few seconds, his body would seize up, followed by
violent tremors, making moving in a coordinated fashion virtually impossible.
Harry wasn’t fairing any better though he turned his head to look at Severus.
“Severus.” He whispered, tears running down his cheeks. “I love you.”
 
The dark, hooded figure of the Dementor floated above Harry, gradually
descending until it all but covered the teen’s body with its black cloak. The
glistening, scabbed hands slowly lowered the hood, revealing a gaping, large
hole where the mouth should be.
Severus could hear the ominous sound of the rattling breath as the Dementor
leaned closer to Harry.
“No! Harry! Nooo! I love you!” Severus screamed, fighting his own body as the
tremors hit him again, managing to roll on his side.
He felt the hard edge of his wand digging into his palm and gripped it tightly,
uncaring of the pain that burned through him like fire. Thinking about all the
times he spent with Harry, cherishing him, admiring him and loving him, he
managed to move his wrist far enough to point his wand in Harry’s direction.
“Expecto Patronum!”
A silver doe sprang to life, galloping towards Harry to chase away the
Dementor. But the foul creature was already pulling its hood back up, seemingly
satiated for the moment and the Dark Lord cackled maniacally, uncorking the
vial in preparation for the ritual. He started chanting in some unknown
language, making the Dementor retreat to the back of the shield dome.
 
Severus watched his Patronus stand guard above Harry, its nose nuzzling the
boy’s cheek. Harry lay there unmovingly, his spectacles reflecting the silver
light as the doe leaned closer, preventing Severus from seeing the boy’s eyes.
When the doe finally moved away, Severus’s heart froze in his chest. The
beautiful face of his beloved Harry was blank, his mesmerizing green eyes dull
and devoid of any emotion. Severus was unwilling to comprehend what it meant,
paralyzed completely by the utter horror he was feeling.
“Harry…” He whispered brokenly, his eyes filling with tears for the first time
since he was a child.
 
The softly murmured “Severus.” must have been a figment of his imagination.
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     *hides under the desk*
     I'm sorry, the cliffhangers just seem to happen :O
     Don't worry, the next chapter is coming soon!
     ♥ ♥ ♥
***** Chapter 29 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
 
Harry opened his eyes, otherwise unable to move. All he could see was a portion
of a cloudy sky and a tall man standing above him, pointing a wand at his face.
Harry suddenly remembered everything, a panic seizing his heart. He was taken
from Hogsmeade, pulled into a dark alleyway by one of the Slytherins. Theo Nott
had somehow contacted his father and the suspected Death Eater had abducted
Harry.
Listening closely to anything that could help him figure out his situation,
Harry finally registered voices somewhere farther away. After a while, he was
sure he recognized the hissing, high-pitched voice of Voldemort. Even through
his panic he scoffed to himself; suspected Death Eater, my arse. Nott Sr was
most definitely a Death Eater, one that had delivered Harry to Voldemort on a
silver platter.
 
Unable to do anything but lay still, Harry thought about his friends,
desperately hoping he was the only one abducted. And Severus! Oh, Merlin, he
would probably be summoned with the rest of the Death Eaters. Voldemort would
surely want to kill Harry in front of his followers to prove he was the
superior wizard.
Harry didn’t want Severus having to watch his death or worse, get himself
killed for trying to save Harry. He could only hope that Voldemort would want
to finish him quickly.
The dark wizard’s voice was suddenly becoming louder and Harry realized he was
coming closer. The scar on his forehead prickling painfully, Harry squinted his
eyes, seeing Nott Sr take a deep bow and then disappear from his line of sight.
“Harry Potter. The Chosen One. You will not thwart my plans today.” Voldemort’s
cold voice and menacing cackle made Harry’s hair stand on end, covering his
body with unpleasant goosebumps.
All of a sudden, he felt the body-bind lift, his muscles stiff for having to
endure the curse for so long. Rolling to the side, Harry tried to sit up and
push himself to his feet, anger coursing through his veins when he heard the
mocking voice of Bellatrix Lestrange.
“Wakey, wakey, Potty baby!”
Voldemort was walking around the strange stone table, hissing under his breath.
“’Nagini, my dear, come see our most honoured guest.’”
“’Yes, master.’”
 
Harry was almost standing up when the cruciatus hit him, the overwhelming pain
consuming his body like fire. He slipped and fell, biting his tongue in the
process.
“Behold the Saviour of the Light!” Said Voldemort in a mocking tone. “The
Chosen One laying at my feet at last.”
“Only because you’re a coward! Attacking me when I don’t have a wand!” Harry
shouted at him angrily, his temper briefly overruling the fear for his life.
Scrambling to his feet again, he was suddenly hit by a leg-locking curse. Harry
fell down hard on his back, getting the wind knocked out of him and panicking
when he couldn’t breathe. He hardly registered one of the Death Eaters getting
punished, Voldemort hissing to his familiar to guard the prisoner and the
battle starting somewhere around him.
Remembering his lessons with Severus, Harry tried to concentrate only on his
breathing and slowly managed to take still deeper breaths. The panic subsiding
slightly, he lifted his head, looking around.
 
Many people were fighting along the tree line, the black cloaks of the Death
Eaters swirling with their movements, making them look like some great
blackbirds. One of them was edging backwards to Harry, firing spells all the
time and not looking where he was going, almost stepping on Nagini that was
coiled on the ground around Harry.
Her hissing alerted the man as well as Voldemort and Harry felt his heart jump
when the man turned around. It was Severus! Severus was here!
Harry’s eyes widened in terror when Voldemort turned his wand to Severus but
luckily he was interrupted by Dumbledore’s voice, calling to him from far away.
“Tom! It is me you want to kill, let the boy go!”
“Dumbledore.” The snake-faced man sneered. “You are too late. The prophecy
shall be fulfilled today.”
Waving his hand and pressing the wand against the stone altar, he activated a
shield barrier that was now forming all around the centre of the clearing.
Harry watched the shimmering blue shield slowly close around them and startled
when he heard Severus yell.
“Harry! Run away! Quickly!”
Severus must have lifted the leg-locking curse and Harry tried to roll away
from under the forming shield but the great snake was faster, slithering onto
Harry’s legs as quickly as a lightning, pinning him down and immobilizing him
with its coils wrapped around his body. Harry couldn’t move anything but his
head, desperately trying to free himself from the big snake.
The shield dome was now completely closed, shutting out the sounds of the
outside world. Harry could still hear the whooshing sounds of spells being
fired and he realized Severus was duelling with Voldemort.
“Crucio! You traitor, I have always suspected you, Severus. Now Dumbledore can
watch both of his pets die tonight!” Voldemort hissed angrily.
 
Lifting his head, Harry’s heart constricted in pain and filled with terror when
he saw the snake-faced man fire the Unforgivable curse at Severus over and over
again, making the potions master writhe on the ground in agony.
“No! Stop it! Nooo, Severus! Severus!” He shouted, tears running down his face
as he was forced to watch Severus endure all that pain.
Pushing against the great snake lying on top of him with all his strength, he
somehow freed one of his hands, starting to beat the dark scales furiously.
“Nooo, let me go! Severus! Severus!”
“’Nagini, move aside.’” Voldemort hissed suddenly.
The snake obeyed at once and Harry was about to roll around to get to Severus
when the pain hit him.
“Crucio! I wonder, was it your doing that Severus betrayed me… You are
disrupting my plans wherever you go, don’t you, Harry? Crucio! But not today,
not today.” Voldemort was talking more to himself than to Harry, seemingly not
caring that the teen was screaming at the top of his lungs.
 
The pain was excruciating. Harry felt as if his body was being penetrated by
thousands of tiny, burning hot needles, attacking all his nerve endings one by
one. When the pain finally stopped, he couldn’t do anything but pant heavily,
his arms and legs twitching on their own accord.
Using the levitation charm, Voldemort placed him in front of the stone altar.
“Harry Potter. You were once the cause of my downfall but today you will help
me achieve an unimaginable greatness!”
“You will never be great. Just evil.” Said Harry, his voice hoarse and quiet.
Turning his head, he looked at Severus who was lying close to the shimmering
shield barrier, his body seizing up in an obviously painful way. Harry’s heart
was hurting for Severus, he had always suspected that he would not survive his
confrontations with Voldemort but he was hoping at least Severus would make it
out alive.
Voldemort kept talking, telling Harry about the power he sought and the
Dementors he studied. Harry shivered when the Dementor floated closer, the
feelings of despair and unhappiness multiplying rapidly.
“With this potion, I will become the master of the Dementors. Their dark
affinity makes them susceptible to the commands of the dark wizards, however,
only their true master will be able to extract the souls stored within their
bodies. And yours, Harry, will be the first I will harvest.” Voldemort cackled
as he waved his hand, sending the Dementor towards Harry.
“No…” Coughed Severus, his body still twitching from the aftershocks of
cruciatus and Harry watched him with tears in his eyes.
 
“Severus. I love you.” He whispered just as the dark, hooded Dementor descended
upon him.
Harry could hear his mother screaming, the green light flashing before his
eyes, his body completely numb with cold.
And then the overwhelming feeling of a pitch black darkness, wanting to swallow
him whole. Harry was fighting it with all his strength, he couldn’t leave
Severus all alone with Voldemort!
As long as he was alive, Voldemort would focus on him and not pay attention to
Severus. He had to be strong for Severus!
Harry retreated to the very edge of his mind until he felt the familiar warmth
of Severus’s occlumency shields. The echo of Severus’s presence was still
there, warming Harry, guiding him, protecting him. Clinging to the shields,
hugging himself to them as he would to Severus, he suddenly felt the evil
presence that lived in the back of his mind move.
Voldemort’s soul shard, Harry realized. The shard was moving towards the
swallowing darkness, trying to pull Harry away from the shields but Harry clung
to them desperately, trusting they would protect him. The shard was moving
faster and faster, its hold on Harry diminishing by the second and all of a
sudden it was gone, the swallowing darkness receding as well.
 
Harry could feel his body warming up again, an overwhelming feeling of pure
love filling him, chasing away the despair and unhappiness. Slowly letting go
of the occlumency shields, Harry drifted back to consciousness.
A blinding white light met his eyes, making him squint until he could see. It
was a doe, Severus’s Patronus. Harry moved his fingers and the doe nuzzled his
hand.
“Severus.” He whispered, looking at the potions master who was laying on his
side, his neck bent in an uncomfortable position.
Severus didn’t seem to hear him, his eyes closed and cheeks stained with tears.
 
Harry realized Voldemort was chanting some kind of spell and he sat up
cautiously, looking at the snake-faced man. The red eyes were closed in
concentration, a vial of potion in one hand and a wand, pointing at the
Dementor, in the other. Nagini was on the ground next to him, seemingly in some
kind of trance just like her master.
Harry got up on his knees, carefully reaching towards the altar. When Voldemort
didn’t move, he quickly grabbed his wand that was lying there and shuffled
backwards awkwardly, ducking his head in the process.
But Voldemort kept chanting, gradually lifting the potion’s vial to his mouth.
Harry hurriedly crawled to Severus, not paying much attention to his still sore
muscles.
“Severus.” He whispered, petting the man’s wet cheeks. “Severus, can you hear
me?”
The dark eyes opened and watched him impassively for a second before widening
in astonishment.
“Harry?” Severus croaked, the tone of his voice unbelieving.
“Severus, can you move? We need to get out of here.” Harry helped him sit up,
supporting his weight as much as he could.
Severus touched Harry’s cheek with a trembling hand, an expression of utter
amazement on his normally stoic face. “Harry, it’s really you!” All of a
sudden, he pulled Harry into a bone-crushing hug. “I thought I had lost you, my
love! My heart! My everything!”
Harry could feel him sobbing into his hair and hugged him back just as tightly.
“I’m still here, Severus. I will never leave you, I promise! I love you!” He
said, his heart aching with the overwhelming love.
“I love you, Harry.” Severus moved back slightly to press a kiss to Harry’s
lips.
 
Their little moment was over when Voldemort drank the potion, the ground around
them suddenly shaking as the shield dome started to dissipate.
“We need to get out of here!” Shouted Harry, getting up and trying to pull
Severus to his feet. Severus was still too affected by the cruciatus and his
knees gave out as soon as he stood up, groaning when he hit the ground again.
A loud hissing voice had Harry turn around.“’Kill the intruder! Must guard the
prisoner! Kill the intruder!’”
Nagini was rapidly slithering closer, launching herself towards Severus with
her mouth open, displaying the deadly fangs.
“Severus! Watch out!” Harry yelled as he threw himself on top of Severus,
trying to shield him with his body.
Nagini hit something and fell to the ground, dazed. When Harry looked up, he
saw an about three feet tall solid brick wall between them and the snake.
Blinking in astonishment, he noticed the shimmering shield was now completely
gone and Dumbledore was standing above them with a wand in one hand and a sword
of Gryffindor in the other.
“Alright, my boys?” He asked pleasantly, vanishing the brick wall with a wave
of his hand.
Nagini hissed, ready to strike again but before Harry could shout out his
warning, the snake’s head fell into his lap, her blood staining the blue jeans
rapidly. Harry looked up at the headmaster with wide eyes and the old man had
the audacity to chuckle.
“Ah, terribly sorry for the mess, my boy.” He said, wiping the bloody sword
with his cloak.
“What…” Severus started to say but was interrupted by an inhuman scream.
 
As one they turned to look at Voldemort who was still standing behind the stone
altar. The dark wizard seemed to be draining the Dementor, its whole essence
disappearing into Voldemort’s wand. At last, the spell had stopped, the
Dementor having vanished into the thin air.
Harry gasped when Voldemort shifted his position. The pale skin had turned dark
grey, the thinness of his skeletal hands was even more pronounced and the
glimmering red eyes were shining like two bloody beacons.
“Dumbledore.” He hissed, his high-pitched voice resonating strangely as if
creating an echo. “Witness the great power of Lord Voldemort!”
He cast a spell, sending a wave of fire to their location. Dumbledore dispelled
it with a waterfall spell and the fight was on.
Harry had tried to help Severus move out of the way, both of them dodging the
stray spells.
“Harry.” Severus pushed Harry behind the stone altar. “Stay here, don’t leave
the cover!”
He pulled a small crate from behind the stone table, quickly downing several
potions and handing one to Harry as well. “Drink this, it will help you
recover. Stay here, I’m going to help Albus.” He said, not waiting for an
answer.
Harry drank the potion, shuddering at the taste and gripped his wand tightly.
He was not going to hide away while Severus was out there, risking his life!
 
Peeking from around the altar, he could see that Voldemort clearly had the
upper hand. Whatever he had done during that ritual with the Dementor had
increased his power exponentially and Harry’s insides filled with fear.
Voldemort was easily duelling Dumbledore and Severus at the same time, hissing
insults at both of them and speeding up his attacks. When the green beam of the
killing curse only narrowly missed Severus, Harry instantly abandoned his cover
and sprinted towards him.
He had to do something before Severus got himself killed. Frantically looking
around, trying to find some way to distract Voldemort, Harry saw the dark,
hooded figures of the Dementors chasing someone along the tree line.
Suddenly, he had a crazy idea. Voldemort told him he would become the master of
the Dementors. What if he had somehow become one of them? He certainly looked
similar to them now.
Not thinking too much about his reasoning, Harry looked at Severus, let his
heart and soul be filled with the overwhelming love he felt for this man and
cast the spell.
“Expecto Patronum!”
 
An enormous silver stag erupted from his wand, galloping to Voldemort at full
speed. Voldemort slashed his wand, creating a shield but the Patronus was not
deterred. Kicking through the shield easily, the stag pushed the dark wizard to
the ground, attacking him in a way that Harry has never seen a Patronus behave.
Voldemort screamed whenever the stag touched him, the bright light of the
Patronus burning his darkened skin, causing large blisters to appear and burst
open at the slightest touch. Harry watched him with wide eyes, the snake-like
face slowly turning skeletal as the skin burned away, the whole body melting
until only the dark robes remained, smouldering in the late afternoon sun.
The stag kicked his front hooves up in some kind of victory dance before
trotting towards Harry and nuzzling his hair in an affectionate gesture.
“Thank you, Prongs.” He murmured softly, petting the shiny stag’s head. The
Patronus bowed and disappeared.
Severus was next to him in a flash, hugging him tightly and pressing little
kisses in his messy hair. “I love you. I love you.” He repeated in whispers,
pulling back to take Harry’s face in his hands and kiss him passionately.
Harry laughed happily when they parted for air. “I love you, too!”
Severus kissed him again and then took his hand, leading him to Dumbledore who
was standing above the smouldering remains of Lord Voldemort.
 
“He’s really gone this time, right, sir?” Harry asked, gazing at the
headmaster.
Dumbledore smiled, but there was an underlying sadness when he spoke. “Yes, my
boy. He is really gone. He was a great wizard and could have changed the world
for the better if he hadn’t been so obsessed with power and immortality.”
Sighing, he picked up Voldemort’s wand. “Lord Voldemort was the downfall of Tom
Riddle.”
Severus watched him with a frown. “Albus, what about Harry? We never had the
time to perform the soul-separating ritual and the expelling spell. What if the
Dark Lord tries to return using the Horcrux?”
Harry opened his mouth to argue he wasn’t the Horcrux anymore when Dumbledore
pulled three vials out of his pocket. Two were full of some blood red potion
but the third one was empty.
“When Voldemort summoned the Dementor and cast the shield dome around you, I
had suspected he was going to use the creature on either you or Harry. As he
was always exceptionally obsessed with Harry, I had guessed he would try to
somehow use the boy’s soul. There was no way for me to penetrate the shield’s
defences and bring it down from the outside but the potion you had created
would allow me to step into the astral plane where the physical barrier
wouldn’t work. After I drank the potion, my physical body stayed safely behind
the shield but my spiritual body was able to step through and observe Voldemort
closely. I had started the soul-separating ritual as soon as I understood his
motives and when the Dementor attempted to suck out Harry’s soul, the Horcrux
was extracted instead. I confess I had feared the worst but Harry was holding
on to his body admirably well.” Dumbledore gently patted Harry’s shoulder.
 
Severus looked at Harry in astonishment. “How?” He asked.
“I was holding on to the shields you have built in my mind. They made me feel
safe and protected and I trusted them to keep the darkness away. And they did.
You did.” Harry gazed at him lovingly, losing himself in the intensity of those
dark eyes.
“Harry.” Severus breathed out, a single tear spilling and running down his
face. “I don’t deserve you. But as long as I live, I will make sure you live a
long and happy life.”
Leaning closer, he kissed Harry softly on the lips before hugging him again,
gently petting the unruly hair.
“As long as I’m with you, I’m happy.” Replied Harry, squeezing Severus tightly
and burrowing his face into the black robes.
 
They could hear Dumbledore speaking to the Order members, people cheering and
shouting, asking questions and even crying but Harry and Severus didn’t pay
them any attention.
They stood together in a tight embrace, their hearts beating as one and both of
them cherished the feeling of being able to hold their beloved one in their
arms. And Harry knew that after surviving Voldemort, there was no power in this
world that could keep them apart.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chapter End Notes
     Well then, you didn't think I would let Harry die, did you?
     I'm a sucker for happy endings :)
     Thank you again for reading, comments and kudos ♥ ♥ ♥
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