Title: Slytherin Secret
Author: Keppiehed
Disclaimer: This all belongs to J.K. Rowling.
Summary: Harry's friends don't know everything about him.
Warnings: None
Prompt: protective Harry, possessive Snape, "that hat wanted to sort me into Slytherin."
A/N: Written for round #1 at Snarry LDWS.
"Did you hear that Snape docked him one hundred points for saying something about Harry? Seems awfully weird to me! What a creepy old guy, always hanging around and listening to us!" Ron was saying.
Harry's ears perked up. Ron was talking to the crowd about the current scandal. Something about it aroused his ire. "I don't think it's so weird, Ron. What's so bad about him standing up for me?"
"I just think that he's showing a little too much interest in you, mate, if you know what I mean." Ron said.
"Oh, come off it Ron. I think it's nice. Maybe you just wish he'd show interest in you." Harry shot back.
Ron's ears burned. "Ugh!" But then he started talking about Quidditch.
Later, Harry caught up with Snape in the corridor.
"I heard your little exchange," Snape said. "You don't want anyone to know we're ... involved?"
Harry shrugged. "It's no one else's business. I just want to keep you to myself a little bit longer, that's all."
"You're awfully adept at hiding things, Mr. Potter. Is there anything you're keeping from me?" Snape lifted a brow.
"Well, the hat wanted to sort me into Slytherin," Harry said. "So I guess you'll never know."
Snape leaned in. "I can read your mind, you know."
Harry grinned. "You could try."
Snape considered him. "Perhaps we'll just do it the old-fashioned way. I shall deduce your secrets on my own."
"You think I'm that easy to read?" Harry smiled.
"I have my methods."
Harry couldn't suppress the thrill those words gave him. He couldn't wait for Snape to apply his considerable skills to the study of himself—it was sure to be an unmatched pleasure.