Summary: Severus doesn't like Harry's new habit, Drabble, one-shot

Warnings: Slash, character death

Fruits of His Labor

Harry took a drag off of a cigarette, the end glowing orange with his inhale. His eyes closed in pleasure as he held his breath, savoring the moment.

"Those will kill you, you know."

Harry exhaled with a wisp of smoke, sighing. "I know, that's the point."

"If you insist on poisoning yourself, couldn't you find a less muggle way to do so? That's such a disgusting habit."

"Well, it's not like the smell is going to bother you or anything. And you won't let me just get it over with so I have to try something."

"I thought we talked about this." Came the terse reply.

Harry opened his eyes and crossed his arms. "You talked about this. I just stood there and listened. You know, I don't remember ever agreeing…"

"I am sorry, Harry. I just want you to be happy."

"I would be happier if I could be with you."

"I want you to live your life first. Merlin knows you sacrificed enough to earn it."

Harry turned around to face Severus, his whispy form even more obscured against the cloud of smoke. "It's not fair. You sacrificed even more, but you never got the chance."

"I didn't sacrifice it for me." Snape sighed, despite the fact he no longer had lungs. "Getting to see the fruits of my labor is repayment enough."

"But I finally found a reason to carry on now that the war is over and now you're gone."

Snape put a translucent hand out, which passed through Harry's arm. With an expression of sadness, he put it back at his side. "Don't be absurd. I'll always be with you. Quite literally, since I seem to be stuck here." He scowled as best as a ghost could.

"I know. It's kind of sweet that even in death you feel you have to watch over me." Harry smiled fondly at him while Snape rolled his eyes and pretended to look bored. "I just wish I had known before… When I think about all that time wasted on anger and hate, sometimes I just can't see straight." He rubbed his finger tips along his temples.

"Maybe you need a vacation? Go out and see the world, put your thoughts in order. Spain is lovely this time of year."

"And you'll come with me?"

"I imagine you wouldn't go unless I did."

Harry grinned. "Glad you're finally starting to see it my way." He took another drag off of his cigarette.