Author's Note: My Lovely readers, you can not Begin to imagine how Deeply and Sincerely I apologize for the delay in getting this chapter out. While I am not the fastest with updates, as I juggle several stories, I Usually manage a bit better than this. Some of you have PM'd me and know what chaos has ensued. I ended up without internet AND off work(alternative access to a computer LOL) for an entire week so I could do Nothing. That simple fact alone put me Far behind in my writing. Then when I did have internet back and could get back to work, I realized I had gotten my dates wrong for a fest fic and had to put everything else on hold so that I could make certain I had it ready in time. The fest fic is turned in and I am just now starting to catch up on my updates. It thrills me that you have all been so eager for the update and I promise it Pained me to cause you all to wait. Thanks always, Always to my Wonderful Beta Spades, who mostly puts up with me and tries to keep me sort of on track as I seem to derail her efforts with my own idiocy sometimes! ;) :-D Here It Is Folks! Please enjoy and let me hear from you in any way, shape, or form you choose! It's the Best part for me. ;) :-D Thanks again for your patience even if it has been sorely tested. Cynthia

{*} {*} {*}

Severus must have dozed off, because the tremors wracking the slight body in his arms roused him fully. Harry's head tossed back and forth against his shoulder as he alternated between mumbled apologies and needy whimpers. Black hair clung to the sweaty, fevered brow; his eyes open but glassy and unseeing. Severus was relieved he hadn't awoke to a full blown seizure; a very real possibility Poppy had assured him in her instructions, considering the amount Harry had taken and their initial bond already in place.

The potion was only meant to make heats spent alone more bearable for unbonded Alphas and Omegas. When a bond of any kind was present, nothing but servicing by one's mate would relieve the longing and discomfort associated with heat. Harry couldn't have known that however, and now his body was fighting the effects of the potion while his mate was present, though not inclined to service him when he was not cognizant of what was happening. In that respect, Severus's presence both helped and hindered Harry. His scent eased Harry's upset and confusion in this state, but it also fed the demands of his body for its mate. Abstinence wasn't proving to be a very easy task for the Alpha either.

He summoned Kreacher and had him run a tepid bath for Harry, he needed to at least lower his fever if possible, without the use of additional potions that could interact with Poppy's antidote. Spelling away his own clothes with a flick of his wand, Severus carried Harry into the lav and lowered them both into the bath. His Omega shuddered and moaned, feebly trying to escape what surely felt to him like icy water on his heated skin. But Severus held him tight, keeping him in the tub, using his hands to spill water over the dark head on his shoulder. Harry nuzzled into his neck and whined, his hips rutting instinctively at the scent of his mate. Severus found he was in need of a bit of relief himself, after being under the influence of his mate's pheromones for so long. So he maneuvered Harry around to straddle his lap, letting him continue to rut against him without penetration. It wasn't ideal but it was relief, their mutual orgasms taking only minutes. Harry was limp against his chest once again and Severus's magic easily drained the water and replenished it with fresh before summoning Kreacher again to bring some fluids and another of Poppy's potions. He was able to slowly coax the potion and a glass of pumpkin juice into Harry while he continued to sluice the tepid water over him. By the time their skin started to pucker from being in the water so long, Harry was cooler to the touch. He had orgasmed once again with Severus's fingers to help him along, and now lay sleeping soundly against the broad chest. Severus sighed quietly as he carried Harry back to the bed and curled up beside him to keep watch; just a few more hours and the worst of the potion's effects should be out of his system. Then he would only have to deal with an angry mate...in heat. He couldn't say he was looking forward to that confrontation.

{*} {*} {*}

Draco pushed his breakfast around on his plate, not really hungry while he still worried about Harry's whereabouts and condition. The clearing of a throat stirred him from staring at his food, he glanced up and over his shoulder to find the Headmaster standing there. Draco was on his feet in a flash, breakfast entirely forgotten, "You have news, sir?"

Dumbledore merely nodded, "I thought perhaps, Mister Malfoy, you would accompany me to my office for a chat." He gestured towards the great double doors and Draco fell into step beside him without further debate. They walked in silence until they reached the headmaster's office. Despite Malfoy's need to know something of Harry, Dumbledore was hesitant to speak of his situation in public. Once they were inside and seated, Draco could wait no longer.

"Please sir, have you found him? Is he alright?"

The headmaster stopped him with an upheld hand, "He is found Mister Malfoy. Professor Lupin was able to track him down at his godfather's home. Apparently Harry had warded himself inside with his house-elf for the duration of his heat, but he is safely accounted for."

Draco knew Harry's heat would be entering it's second day and could only imagine how he was faring without an Alpha. The thought sparked a concerned question for Dumbledore, "Sir, if he is in heat, should I not go to him? We had planned to spend this heat together…surely he is in agony without an Alpha to help him, sir."

Dumbledore had debated what to tell the young man regarding Harry's situation and had decided that they would have to discuss it with each other once this heat was over. Nevertheless, he had to tell the boy something as he couldn't send him to Harry. "Your presence will not be required, Draco. It appears that Harry stole some potions from Madame Pomfrey, intending to drug himself and sleep through this heat unattended. Alas, he took a bit too much of the potion and is now under Madame Pomfrey's care, with the assistance of his house-elf, for the duration of his heat, to avoid any complications that could arise." Draco's brow instantly creased in worry for Harry. Dumbledore truly regretted the oversight regarding Harry and Severus's bond because Draco displayed every proper form of care and concern a good Alpha should for his Omega. It was a shame that the courtship would not work out for the young man, and Dumbledore only hoped there would be another alternative down the road for the fine young Alpha. "He is being well looked after Mister Malfoy, do not trouble yourself. Harry should be back within the week and you can discuss what has transpired then."

Draco nodded, "I'll try sir. Thank you for finding him and making sure he is cared for, I appreciate you letting me know."

"Certainly Mister Malfoy, anytime." Dumbledore smiled down at the young Alpha as he showed him to the door. There was nothing else he could do at this point, beyond hope that Draco would not be too hurt by the news Harry would have to give him.

{*} {*} {*}

He was in the infirmary again, staring at the still-locked door to the private ward. He wasn't even sure how he ended up here. He was walking back to his dorm after talking with Dumbledore, distracted by his thoughts about Harry. He passed by the infirmary and was headed downstairs but turned around for some reason. He had walked past the infirmary again before turning once more, finally entering the double doors. It was that scent. The scent had caught the Alpha's attention and drawn him back here. Draco stared at the door wondering what it meant. It had to be an Omega, but the scent was nothing like he had ever smelled on Harry. This scent was seductive and sweet, it reminded him of comfort and home. He knew he couldn't enter the door and yet he could not bring himself to turn and leave; he just stared at the door… breathing in that amazing scent.

Madame Pomfrey had returned from breakfast and was just setting about her tasks for the day when she glimpsed young Malfoy out of the corner of her eye. Not that he was doing anything suspicious, he was just...standing there. Still she was perfectly aware that Malfoy was an Alpha and she had a very unbonded Omega in Mister Longbottom, sleeping securely behind that locked door. She did not know how much Mister Malfoy knew of the situation with Potter as yet, but she didn't need an Alpha on the prowl while she was on duty.

"Mister Malfoy, come away from there! Just who gave you permission to be in the infirmary while it was unattended?" The young Alpha just turned his head and looked at her blankly without moving. Oh dear, thought Poppy, the poor boy has it bad. She walked closer to the young man trying to decide how she was going to get him to leave. Malfoy simply watched her come closer, still not moving. "Didn't you hear me, Mister Malfoy? What are you doing here?"

Draco blinked, slowly processing the question, then blinked again as he tried to answer. "I-I don't know Madame Pomfrey. Truly I don't. I was heading to the dorm...but...the scent. It...called me."

Poppy narrowed her eyes and tilted her head slightly, studying Malfoy carefully. He genuinely seemed confused by his behavior and equally powerless to simply walk away. She had seen only a few pairs of Destined mates during her tenure, sometimes the signs were subtle; that and a decided overabundance of stubbornness had led to the current mess with Severus and Harry. At other times, the signs were quite pronounced and specific and she would bet her wand that she was seeing at least one half of those signs now. Despite having seen him before breakfast, Poppy thought it might be prudent to check on Mister Longbottom as well. "Mister Malfoy, I need to enter the ward but you may not follow me. Is that clear?"

Draco nodded, "Yes ma'am. I may not follow you."

Poppy opened the door and stepped through quickly, already able to tell Longbottom was agitated as she stepped inside. Understandably, as soon as the fresh surge of scent wafted out, Mister Malfoy unconsciously stepped forward. She hated to do it but she quickly cast Petrificus Totalus on the young man to halt his progress. That was probably the only way she would be able to get him out of the infirmary as well. She closed the door firmly and turned the lock, just to be safe, before going to see to Mister Longbottom.

"Have to go...he's here...go to him...mine," Neville thrashed weakly in the bed, covers thrown to the floor as he attempted to get up only to fall back against his pillow, still under the effects of the potion. "Please...have to go...my Alpha...help me… " he drifted off again as some of the Alpha's scent dissipated, though his heart rate remained elevated. The wet pajamas clinging to his bottom and his prominent erection testified to his arousal at the scent of the Alpha.

Poppy was certain that without the potion, he would have already gotten out of this ward and found Mister Malfoy himself. But as it was, Mister Longbottom was in the throes of his first unbonded heat and under her care. While she strongly suspected that Malfoy and Longbottom were indeed meant for each other, she could not in good conscience allow them together until this heat passed and the matter could be addressed rationally. She quickly cleaned and recovered Longbottom, locking the ward securely behind her as she sent for Remus and Argus to help her remove Mister Malfoy from the infirmary. She had to let Dumbledore know what she suspected. She couldn't drug Mister Malfoy to escape the call of his mate without justifying it to his father and she'd rather avoid that hassle. She would simply have to ward the infirmary not to allow Malfoy in, unless injured or ill and accompanied by a professor, until Longbottom's heat was safely over. She rolled her eyes and huffed softly, you would think she was a ruddy social worker instead of a medi-witch sometimes.

{*} {*} {*}

Harry stirred, he didn't feel as groggy as he thought he would after the potions and alcohol, which he considered a blessing. Must be time for more, he thought absently as he noticed the dull throb in his arse and cock. He groaned at the reminder that he was having to spend this heat not having his arse thoroughly fucked as he would have preferred. However, that thought only reminded him of the reasons he was here instead of with an accommodating Alpha. He growled as he reached for his bedside table and the potions he had left there, surprised when he found...nothing. He was just about to yell for Kreacher when he finally noticed the scent that seemed to surround him, even clinging to his skin...Alpha. To make matters worse, not just any Alpha, he smelled Snape. He viciously choked off the whine in his throat but he could do nothing to stop the fresh surge of lubrication generated by his clenching arse. Bloody hell! Why would he be smelling Snape? Kreacher wouldn't have let him in here against his orders, maybe it was his clothes. Harry glanced around the room but there was no sign of his clothes anywhere. There were however, long black robes thrown across a chair over by the window. Harry was still processing this information when he heard the voice.

"You will find no potions nor firewhiskey now, Harry." The dark seductive voice drew the Omega's gaze up to face a knowing sneer. "You very nearly overdosed yourself, you stupid boy. Fortunately Madame Pomfrey was able to get an antidote to us before any serious damage could be done. You should feel much better now and your heat can finish as normal." Severus had only stepped into the lav to refresh himself and returned as soon as he heard Harry stirring. He stood there in nothing but the black trousers he had pulled on quickly, arms crossed over his pale chest and his feet bare as he waited for Harry to speak. He had thought of many different ways to approach Harry during the hours he had slept; sadly, when faced with an alert Omega who had no idea he was mated, Severus panicked and fell back on his old habits. The look on Harry's face told him instantly it was a mistake, from the Omega's point of view, things already looked suspicious.

The Omega's fury boiled up and overflowed. Snape was in his room with barely any clothes on, while he himself was completely naked, when he knew he went to bed with pajamas on. Had the man been fucking and knotting him while he was drugged? Harry was so mistrustful of Snape after these past few months that he simply wouldn't put anything past him. And just where in the hell was Kreacher? He had no idea what had been going on while he was out or how Snape came to be here but he was going to wish he hadn't messed with Harry. This was simply going too far! Perfectly aware that he was still in heat, Harry used his anger to overcome the pull of the Alpha's pheromones as he pulled the blankets around his body and stood, quickly putting the bed between himself and Snape.

"What the bloody hell are you doing here?!" Harry shouted, well beyond any remote thought of politeness. "You're not supposed to be here...you're not allowed to be here! Kreacher! If anyone should be here it's Draco, he's the Alpha courting me, the Alpha I am supposed to be with. That's the choice you left me with, right? You didn't want me...rejected me right in front of everyone!" Harry's eyes narrowed sharply as he thought of what had happened to cause him to run away from the Alpha's despite his heat starting. "But you couldn't even leave it at that could you? Had to do something didn't you, you spiteful arse...fixed it so I couldn't even get aroused by Draco." He saw Snape's eyes widen at his accusations which only spurred him further, "Oh, don't look all surprised and innocent with me. You know damn good and well you are the only one I can even get erect for or respond to properly as an Omega. I don't know what I did to deserve your hatred and cruelty but I really find your behavior unfair to both Draco and myself. Just how am I supposed to bond with an Alpha I can't even have sex with?!"

Harry's words set the Alpha on edge, a warning growl preceding his own words, "You can not bond with Malfoy."

Harry had to grab the bedpost to keep himself upright as his instincts nearly had him on his hands and knees with his arse presented in response to the Alpha's growl. Being reminded so plainly that his Omega wanted the man before him only made him angrier. He deserved better from the Alpha than the treatment he had endured. Harry stayed on his feet, beating back his instincts with every breath as he snarled at the Alpha, "I can't? I Can't! Just what makes you think you have the right to tell me who I can and can't bond with?! I knew Alpha's could be possessive but you have no right to be! You can't have it both ways Snape and you can't tell me what to do."

Severus snarled at the stubborn brat who was somehow now his mate, "I have every right! If you would calm down for two minutes I could explain. You can not bond with Malfoy because you are already mated. I am your Alpha, Harry...and you are my Omega. There will be no one else."

"KREACHER! Where the hell are you?" Harry was beginning to think something may have happened to his house-elf. As Uncle Vernon would say, Snape had clearly gone 'yumpy'. Harry clutched at his neck, reassured when he felt no bruise or bite that would explain this whole 'mate' nonsense. He began to edge slowly around the end of the bed; he had to try and escape before things got ugly. Then he saw Kreacher lingering in the doorway watching them both. "Kreacher, why didn't you answer me? How could you let Snape in here when I gave you specific instructions?"

"Master was sick, needed his mate. When Dobby comes to check on Master, Kreacher sends him back for Master's mate." Harry could only stare incredulously at Kreacher, he had been betrayed by his own house-elf. That shouldn't even be possible. And to make matters worse, Snape seemed to have convinced the poor old elf that he truly was his mate. Harry knelt down to speak to the elf quietly, "Kreacher, if Snape told you he was my mate, it was a lie. I don't have a mate, I have never bonded with an Alpha. Look at me, there's no bond mark is there? Snape lied to have a way to get in here and fuck me because he has some misguided Alpha obsession with me, that's all."

Severus could hear every word and did not appreciate the implications, "I did not lie and I have not…" He was going to say he had not touched Harry but that was not true, "I have not 'fucked' you, as you so eloquently put it. I have been taking care of you. Making sure you didn't die in your sleep from the poisonous cocktail you put into your body."

Kreacher was also quick to object to his master's words, "Severus Snape did not tell Kreacher he was Master's mate, Kreacher knows the mate scent marking Master's flesh. He has been a good mate to Master. Took care of him while he was not well, Kreacher has been watching...helping."

Harry looked from Kreacher to Snape and back again, shaking his head sharply as if that would clear the chaos in his mind. He finally spoke to Kreacher again, "Look, I don't know what is going on but I can assure you I have never bonded with this man, Kreacher. Now I need you to get me my clothes so I can get out of here. I'm not staying here to be used by him again."

Snape stepped forward at his words, prompting Harry to stand and back quickly away from his approach. Severus didn't know how to reach Harry through the obvious pain and mistrust his misguided actions had caused but he stopped moving forward as his mate seemed to perceive that as a threat. He saw Harry reaching for some form of support, as his breathing grew ragged and a shudder passed through his body again; a visible reminder that he was still in heat and fighting for the control. Severus knew his proximity only made it harder for Harry and could only imagine what the struggle was costing him. "You can't leave here Harry. You are still in full heat, it is not safe for you to be alone. Your magic will not work efficiently when you are this far along, you must stay here where you are safe."

"Well excuse me if I don't feel bloody well safe here with you!" Harry was beginning to panic, the longer they talked the more diffuse his anger got, the fuzzier his thoughts became, and the harder it became to fight the pull of the Alpha. He knew it was his nature but he was cursing silently because he wanted Snape. He wanted to feel the strength and command the Alpha had over him, his utter control over his body. Harry tried very hard not to think of that glorious cock at all but when he felt a new trickle of lubrication and his knees trembled just a bit he knew he was not succeeding. His decisions became rash. He tried to Accio his wand only to have it bounce of a bedpost due to his poor focus, Snape caught it easily with a low warning growl, sending a shiver down Harry's spine. When he had reached behind him to grip the edge of his dresser earlier, his hand had passed over the base of an antique silver candelabra. With his heat about to take over, he was convinced he had to get away from the Alpha and became even more panicked. With as much force as he could muster in his weakened state, he lobbed the candlestick at Snape and shoved his way past Kreacher, modesty rapidly sacrificed when the blankets he clutched to his body tripped him up and slowed him down.

Severus was only delayed a moment deflecting the candlestick, but Harry had youth and adrenaline on his side. When he reached the door, he was treated to the sight of a very naked, aroused, and frantic Omega disappearing down the stairs. He glanced down to where Kreacher was dusting himself off after his sudden tumble.

The house-elf looked up gravely, "He will be safe Master Snape. He will not be able to break Kreacher's wards."

Severus nodded, "Thank you Kreacher. Now we only have to catch him and calm him down." He caught the scent of pheromones spiking in the hallway as he walked out of the bedroom. The scent of his aroused mate stimulated the Alpha's primal urge to seek and claim, a raw guttural sound rumbled through his chest. It appeared he had held the Alpha back as long as he could, his mate was in heat and the hunt was on.

{*} {*} {*}

Harry didn't have a plan, no notion of what he was doing or where he was trying to go. He simply had to get away from Snape. He made it to the kitchen without interference only to be repelled by the house-elf's magic when he tried to get out the back door. Unique and powerful, the magic proved to be an insurmountable obstacle. Harry was attempting to broach the Floo when the loud crack alerted him to Kreacher's appearance. He turned to see the old elf once again simply watching him. "You have to let me out Kreacher. I can't be here with him. He can't be my mate, he doesn't even want me...or like me for that matter."

"That's not exactly true, Harry." Snape's silken voice sent Harry scuttling away from the Floo and around the large table with a whimper he could not suppress. The Alpha's gazed followed him, a predatory gleam in the feral eyes. "You really should make a practice of getting your facts straight before you make rash assumptions. I happen to want you...very...much." Harry had backed himself against the hutch at the end of the kitchen, shaking his head and struggling to hold onto his resolve. But Snape was losing patience with his recalcitrant mate, "Come here!"

Harry's eyes went wide at the command from his Alpha, his pupils dilating rapidly as he nearly sobbed at his own weakness with this man. With the last resistance he could muster, Harry dug his heels in, "NO!" He began to grab plates and pots, goblets and spoons, throwing them all in a mad flurry of implements to dissuade his supposed 'mate'.

Snape deflected one or two with a flick of his wand but in the face of Harry's barrage, he simply uttered a shield charm and began to move purposefully towards his mate. Before he realized what was happening, Harry found one wrist caught in the vice-like grip of the Alpha. Swiftly twisting the arm behind the Omega's back, Snape used the leverage to pull him close. Harry tried to struggle even though he knew he was lost. Snape's free hand gripped tight in the unruly dark hair, pulling until Harry had no choice but to tilt his head back, lifting his face to the Alpha. He was furious with himself as the needy whine fell from his lips and his hips bucked forward when his mouth was claimed in a hungry kiss. Not bothering to be gentle, the Alpha bit the Omega's lower lip sharply, demanding entrance.

Harry wanted to resist, wanted answers, but the Omega simply couldn't fight anymore. He wanted the Alpha...needed the Alpha to take him, make him feel like he was whole again. Harry hated the loss of control when he felt he needed it the most, however, the days of denying his heat seemed to catch up at last and he sagged in the Alpha's arms.

Severus smirked as he broke the kiss to look down at the young man in his arms, "While I do admire your tenacity and passion, I am pleased to see you do at least remember how to be properly submissive to your Alpha." The Omega quickly flushed in a fresh surge of arousal, mewling softly at the praise, while the Alpha was through playing games. The hunt was over and he had captured his prize. "I can not make you believe my words, so I shall remind you in body." Harry was abruptly spun around, his chest shoved down onto the well worn wood of the kitchen table, held in place by one hand pressing him down. The Omega distantly registered the sound of a zipper releasing, causing a shiver of anticipation, though Harry's rational mind paced in caged fury at his body's capitulation. The Alpha leaned over his Omega, scenting him deeply and licking over the bonding gland before speaking, "You are Mine, Harry Potter, just as I am Yours. I intend to spend every remaining moment of this heat filling you with my cock and my come until you have no doubt just whom you belong to. Do you understand, pet?"

Harry craved the dominant behavior that he had missed so much with Draco, even as the ease with which Snape manipulated him stoked the fire of his anger for later. Yet, even then, this was what he wanted from his Alpha. He finally managed to stutter out a response, "Y-yes Alpha, I understand." The purr of 'Very good, pet' was the last thing the Omega heard before the Alpha buried his cock deep with one savage thrust. 'Bastard!' The word echoed through Harry's mind as he was taken, though all that escaped his mouth was a cry of pleasure at being filled once again by his Alpha, the Omega making no dispute to the claim. Harry couldn't stop himself, he moaned even louder, muttered encouragement, and begged for even more, as he was fucked ruthlessly over the tabletop. Severus smiled darkly as he pulled out slowly only to thrust sharp and deep once again earning him a shrieking plea for more from his Omega. He happily obliged, setting a brutal pace as he reclaimed his mate. It was only a matter of minutes before he could feel the knot beginning to swell, they had both been held off too long for the first mating to last. With a feral roar, Snape shoved his knot into place and bit down hard on Harry's shoulder as his cock pumped his mate full of come. The Omega had the passing regret that Snape did not bite his bonding gland, but when his own orgasm struck he gave it no further thought. Harry was thankful for small favors. Afterward he lay silent and panting, the Alpha draped across his back, weighing him down. While the Omega felt grounded and secure like this, Harry was feeling trapped by his nature; trapped and insecure with a man he could not trust.

Despite his arguments, there was a thread of relief being with his Alpha again; the Alpha he did innately know he belonged with, even when he would not admit it to himself. He still didn't understand anything that was going on and he was still angry; he still needed answers about this mating and why Snape had put him through hell. But underneath it all, the Omega was content. Severus was claiming they were mated already, apparently now willing to offer everything Harry had been craving all along. He didn't trust it for a moment, yet he focused on that thought, losing himself for now in the feeling of belonging it brought him, while they waited for the knot to release them. Harry had never had a place to belong, not for long anyway. He had not had someone to love him that he had not lost eventually. He wanted to believe Snape's words so fervently, yet all he had known from the man was cruelty, lies, and manipulation outside of his heat. He resigned himself to being the Alpha's fuck toy for a few more days, convinced that when his heat ended he would be right back where he had been every other time. Alone.

When the Alpha was able to pull out, Harry made no rush to get up. Lost in the turmoil of his own mind, he had no motivation to move, unaware that he cried silently. Severus refastened his trousers and slid his hands beneath pale shoulders to help him stand, but failed to notice Harry's stupor. Harry didn't realize he was falling until warm hands caught him and held him close, a worried frown on the face that looked down at him.

"Are you alright, Harry?" The Alpha carefully brushed away the tears that trickled slowly down the Omega's cheeks. "Did I hurt you?"

The question, uttered with such convincing concern only caused a fresh wave of tears Harry could not explain. He shook his head until his head began to swim, the sensation of vertigo making him feel nauseous. "No. I'm fine...just tired...and a bit dizzy I think."

Severus pulled out a chair and sat him down, "You are still recovering from the sleeping potion's effects on your body and your heat is continuing. I believe it will be much safer if I take you back to bed, pet, but first you need to eat something. There will be plenty of time to talk about things, but first, you need as much rest as I can give you. Alright?"

The barest flicker of a smile played at the edge of Harry's mouth at the irony of Snape's concern for him now. "Alright," was all he finally said as he sat and waited. His foreseeable future was in the Alpha's hands and he was just a 'pet'. He was completely surprised however by the Alpha's solicitude, a side of Snape he had never before seen, encouraging Harry to eat while he watched anxiously for any distress...anything he might need to do to care for him. Sighing, Harry realized it was just the instinctive behavior from the Alpha. When they had finished their light meal and Snape insisted on lifting him into his arms for the trip back upstairs, the Omega's heart swelled with contented happiness. Internally however, Harry was still railing against the constraints of his heat when he was so upset otherwise. He had no doubt that he would enjoy the remainder of his heat as an Omega should, but after that, there would come a time of reckoning.

{*} {*} {*}

Draco sat outside the infirmary, unable to enter any longer but certain he had to be here. So he waited, everyday; before class, after class, cutting meals short to come and sit outside the doors once more. He didn't even know what he was waiting for, only that...somehow, that scent was meant for him. Today, his perseverance was to be rewarded. The double doors began to creak open and Draco was on his feet, anxiously craning his neck to see...Neville Longbottom.

Neville was making his way slowly out of those doors, still looking tired and a bit weak after his ordeal. Draco could hardly believe that Neville was an Omega, despite what his senses told him. He quickly dismissed that thought, it shouldn't be anymore surprising to see Neville standing there than it had been to scent Harry the first time. He took a step forward almost without a thought, then forced himself to stop, uncertain of what he should do...or even say. How in the world did he begin to explain himself to the young man he had spent years tormenting?

Neville couldn't understand how he could be so tired when he had been asleep for days. Madame Pomfrey had explained that it was not 'natural rest'. He had spent days fighting his own body's natural impulses and he would need some real sleep to regain his energy. So he made his way tiredly out of the infirmary, not even noticing Draco until he stepped forward. Neville stopped, watching the Alpha carefully. Noticing the books and parchment, as well as a partially eaten apple on the low bench behind the silent Slytherin, brought a small smile to Neville's face, his lips quirking oddly on one side as he considered the implications. He thought he had imagined it, a fevered dream of his heat; but the Alpha really was here...had been here for some time it appeared.

Draco could not understand why he was having trouble finding his voice in order to speak to Neville, of all people. They had been classmates for years, why should it be hard now? He knew it had to do with the scent and the changes it brought. The scent drifted to him even now, more subdued since the heat had ended but still affecting him strongly. Still pulling the Alpha toward...something, something he knew was important. He took another step towards the Omega, opening his mouth to speak, only to snap it closed again. He looked up, meeting Neville's tired, amused gaze with his own look of frustration. Malfoy's did not get tongue-tied by situations, they were always in complete control. So what was wrong with him now?

While the Alpha and Omega readily recognized their mate and were eager to have further contact, the two young men were still trying to adjust their perceptions of each other after years as enemies. Neville had always been the kinder and more amenable of the two and it was he who bravely took the first step, a true Gryffindor. He met the silvery eyes across from him and said the first thing that came to mind.

"Well," his tone conveyed only surprise at the situation.

Draco stared at Neville, his brows furrowed while he considered what to say. The Gryffindor's words sparked a brief chuckle before he sobered, "Yes. Well, indeed." There they stood staring at each other across the hallway smiling as they realized they were in the same boat. And just like that, talking became easier.

Neville began again, "I thought I was just dreaming. A fantasy brought on by the drugs, and the…." He trailed off, suddenly embarrassed to mention his heat with the Alpha who was obviously his mate. Knowing they would someday share his heats together did not help him communicate when they were barely beginning their relationship, besides it just wasn't proper to mention it so soon.

Immediately sensing the Omega's unease, the sneering Slytherin of the past was replaced easily by an understanding Alpha, surprising Draco a bit. He took another step closer to Neville, "You weren't dreaming. I have been here….waiting for you, it seems." He smiled at the look of surprise on the Gryffindor's face. "Your scent...called me." When Neville only nodded in understanding, he continued, "Of course, Madame Pomfrey banned me from the infirmary straight away," he huffed a soft laugh, thinking what a sight he must have been, "However, I have been unable to stay away for any length of time. I have been here everyday, waiting to know who that scent belonged to...and now, I have found you."

Draco shook his head in wonder as he said the words. He had never been one to believe all the romantic nonsense and old-Omega tales about your Other or being Destined and meeting your mate at last. He looked into hazel eyes that met his grey ones with understanding and knew all the stories were true. He and Neville may have to relearn what they knew about each other in light of their newfound knowledge, but he still knew without a doubt that this Omega was his mate. The one meant to complete him and be with him forever. Both instinct and upbringing told Draco what he had to do next.

The realization struck him suddenly, prompting him to take the final step to bring him up to Neville with new confidence. He purposefully reached out with one hand, catching the Omega's wrist easily and slowly bringing it to his nose. Draco inhaled deeply, letting his eyes close as he took in the intimate scent, formally acknowledging and accepting his mate properly with the time honored practice. He heard the sharp intake of breath from the Omega, followed by a wave of pheromones he knew were meant only for him. His eyes opened slowly as he looked into Neville's, pupils already dilating in response to his behavior. The Alpha purred low and soft, "I found you."

Receiving the formal acknowledgement of his mate with a flush of arousal, Neville allowed the Omega to express his thoughts without any further reservations. He lifted his free hand to brush his fingertips through the silky blond hair and over one temple before cupping the chiseled jaw gently. "And I've found you," he whispered. Neville smiled and took a quick breath as he further confessed, "I have wanted you for so long, even before we presented, even without knowing that you would be mine and I yours. I still wanted you." He let his thumb brush absently over the pale cheekbone beneath his hand, just because he could now. Then he ducked his head to return the acknowledgement and properly scent his mate for the first time, nuzzling into the crook of Draco's neck while the Alpha purred and a proprietary hand rested on his waist.

Draco's head was spinning. Even with his heat over, Neville's pheromones were enough to arouse the Alpha because they were the pheromones of his mate. He gripped the waist under his hand tightly as he tried to think despite the formal scenting driving him mad with desire like he had never felt. He had to focus, there were things to be done….he knew…..proper things that must be done when one found their mate. He was trying hard but as soon as Neville pulled away from his neck he blurted out, "May I kiss you?"

The Omega teased his thumb over those warm lips before backing away with a sigh. "No, you may not kiss me."

Draco could only blink dumbly...his mate had...refused him. He didn't understand, but was certain there was a reason. "Why?"

Neville's expression turned grave, "Harry."

Draco was dumbfounded. How could he have forgotten all about Harry and the courtship? He was certain finding one's Destined mate would be appropriate grounds for dissolving the courtship, but he had simply forgotten anyone else existed besides his mate. He instantly felt guilty knowing he would have to break it to Harry and end things. He only hoped they would still be able to remain friends afterwards. "You are correct of course, I got carried away and simply wasn't thinking. I apologize, Neville."

Neville was impressed that Draco handled the gentle rebuttal well. Despite being a well-bred pureblood, the spoiled behavior he had known for years had understandably left him in doubt as to his mate's ability to behave with the proper propriety he knew his Gran and Draco's own parents would expect from them. He knew things would be awkward for all of them for a bit, but was confident everything would work out as it should. He was an honourable pureblood and he could not consent to any more intimate contact with his mate until he was freed from the courtship with another Omega. The fact that it was Harry made him even more uncomfortable at the prospect. No, his Alpha would just have to wait.

"Thank you, Draco." Neville closed his eyes as a sudden wave of vertigo had him grasping the Alpha's arm for support. His heat along with the stress and emotion of their scenting had drained what little strength he had and he desperately needed to get to his dorm.

The Alpha quickly offered his own strength, slipping an arm around his Omega as he anxiously questioned him. "Are you alright? Can I do anything? How can I help you?"

Neville couldn't help laughing at his mate. He would never have imagined how attentive Draco could be. "I'm fine...fine. Just exhausted. Madame Pomfrey says I just need to get some true sleep without all the drugs. As much as I would love to spend some time talking, I need to get to my bed."

Draco wasn't put off at all, "Of course you do, I should not have kept you so long when I could see how tired you were." With a wave of his wand Draco collected his belongings and shrank his bag down to fit in his pocket so he would have nothing to hinder his support of his Omega. "Please allow me to escort you to your dorm so you can rest." He caught Neville's chin with his fingers, "After all, we will have a lifetime to talk now, won't we."

Neville gave a small nod and smiled as they began to walk down the stairs, concentrating on his steps so that he didn't slip and take them both down in the fall. They walked in companionable silence, ignoring the stares they got from other students. Their world quickly shrinking to only each other. When they approached the portrait for admittance, Draco finally spoke.

"Rest well, Neville. As I generally read people well and understand the proper practices to be expected, I believe we will be receiving a visit from our families before classes resume on Monday." The Omega only tilted his head, unable to think clearly as fatigue tugged at his body. Draco elaborated in a conspiratorial whisper, "Madame Pomfrey has been watching both of us like a hawk all week. I am certain I even saw her peeking around the door of the infirmary while we spoke outside." Neville's eyes widened in surprise while the Alpha continued with a chuckle. "I shall not be surprised if she has already alerted Dumbledore to developments and he in turn has already informed our parents...or guardian in your case. I fully expect that the formal visits will be made before you even wake."

Neville blinked sleepily though Draco was speaking of the serious business of being newly matched. He marshalled his thoughts to reply, "But...Harry?"

Draco took Neville's right hand in his, raising it to his lips and placing a firm kiss there. "I will speak with Harry as soon as he returns, I promise. Now get up to your room before you fall asleep standing here. I shall see you tomorrow."

Neville smiled at the gallant gesture and agreed, "Alright, until tomorrow then. Thank you Draco...for helping me back."

One eyebrow quirked up as the Alpha rubbed his thumb over the knuckles of the hand he still held. "I am your mate Neville, and you are mine. I will always take care of you."

Neville blushed at the reverence in those words, only able to give a slight nod of acknowledgement before Draco shooed him into his dorm. He didn't even remember climbing the stairs to his room or getting into bed. He was asleep in moments, dreaming happily about his mate and their future.

Draco had watched Neville disappear into Gryffindor Tower before spinning on his heel and heading for his own room. He had a letter to write and an owl to send to his father. There were things that would need to be set in motion now and the sooner the better. He would have done the same if he and Harry had ever bonded; Malfoys did not mess about when it came to their mates.

{*} {*} {*}

When Harry woke up this time, he was not alone. Snape was curled up behind him, sleeping soundly, his palm resting heavy on the Omega's waist. With his heat now over, Harry was consumed by his anger, and the disgust he felt with himself for yielding to the Alpha. He might not have been thinking rationally, but he didn't want to consider hormones and pheromones, his nature or anything else that robbed control of his own life away from him. He had had enough, and right now all he wanted to do was get away from the Alpha in his bed. The irony did not escape him, he had wanted the Alpha to be there when he woke alone and now that the Alpha was there all he wanted was to escape.

Harry carefully lifted the limp hand from his side before sliding away from Snape. He waited to make certain he had not roused the man before he slid from the bed. He was immediately reminded that there were no potions waiting this time for his relief when every muscle protested loudly as he made his way to the lav. The slick sensation of lubricant mixed with old and fresh come dripping down his legs, nauseated him further as he started the shower.

Just before he stepped under the hot water, he remembered something. Marching back into the bedroom, he grabbed his wand off the dresser where Snape had left it after his disastrous attempt to use his magic during his heat. Returning to the bathroom, he quickly locked the door with a spell of his own before stepping under the steamy spray to wash the evidence of the Alpha from his body. "Nothing wrong with my magic now," he mumbled to himself as he began to wash with a vengeance.

{*} {*} {*}

Severus woke to a decided absence of warm Omega in the bed next to him, glancing blearily around the room before he heard the shower running. Smirking to himself, he got out of bed and made his way to the lav. He could do with a nice shower himself, and if he got to share it with his new mate, even better. His notions were summarily dashed when he found the lavatory door locked. Rolling his eyes at the immature use of magic, he retrieved his own wand and cast Alohomora.

Nothing happened. The door remained firmly shut. Snape tried every variation of spells he knew to open or unlock but to no avail.

"Harry? Harry, this is childish now. You need to let me in."

Harry heard the spells rebounding from his magic and the still unopened door gave him immense satisfaction. He had always been more powerful than he let on and this time he used that power.

Harry summoned Kreacher, who appeared with a crack only to stare curiously at the door when he heard the Alpha's demands. He finally looked at his master, just stepping from the shower and grabbing a towel to dry off.

"Kreacher, you will inform Professor Snape that there are many other lavatories in this house and he is welcome to use any one of them for his needs. However, I am not inclined to remove the magic barring him from this one. Do you understand Kreacher?"

The house-elf blinked then nodded.

"Furthermore Kreacher, you are not allowed to transport Professor Snape into this lavatory, no matter what form of threat or inducement he may try to use." Harry looked sharply down at his servant, "I know you could do it Kreacher. I am ordering you not too, unless you wish to be banished from the Black family holdings permanently. Or I could simply give you some clothes, if I decide I don't want to expend the energy banishing you."

Kreacher's eyes widened at the threat. A house-elf lived with and served his family until death, such was their life. The family you belonged to and their holdings were your family and home. To be banished or freed either one at his age was a horrific punishment. He could not believe the young master would do such a thing.

Harry saw the doubt in Kreacher's eyes but he was serious about taking control of his own life. He turned to face Kreacher directly, for just a moment letting the full extent of his magic crackle and spark around his body, stirring the air in the small room with its force. "I have the power to do exactly as I say, Kreacher. Please do not provoke me."

Kreacher bowed low before his master. He had not seen such power displayed since before Regulus and Sirius were born; he would not disobey.

"You may go Kreacher. Relay my message." With that Harry turned his attention to brushing his teeth and tending to his shaving after four days of growth. He heard the crack as Kreacher departed, followed by low voices outside the bathroom door.

"Harry!" He smiled at the Alpha's annoyance. Served the controlling arse right.

"Harry, this is ridiculous. We have to talk about things...I have to explain."

The Omega simply ignored the pleas and went about his ablutions, giving no answer.

"Harry….please…"

He had to admit he was surprised by the begging, until he convinced himself it was just another way to manipulate him and hardened his heart anew.

Snape stared at the locked door. He could admit to being impressed with the magic that blocked him so completely, but otherwise he was concerned about what had prompted its use. He had worried for Harry's safety until Kreacher appeared and assured him all was well. He did not know what to make of the message he was given though, nor the fact that his Omega would not unlock the door or answer him. He began to think back over the last two days.

The heat had gone normally and pleasurably enough, but in between the waves of pheromone driven sex, Harry did not seem himself. He would roll onto his side and sleep until driven by his needs once again. He didn't cuddle or talk, there was no teasing or playful behavior as they had shared before. The Omega would accept food or drinks from him during those lulls with little or no comment.

Severus had chalked it up to the awkward way this heat had started, as well fatigue and possible lingering effects of the potions. He realized now that he had ignored the emotions and unease radiating off of his mate at those times because he had no idea how to handle them. He didn't actually know what to do, he didn't know how to be a mate. He was afraid now that he had done Harry a great disservice. With a sigh, he gathered his things and let Kreacher show him to another lavatory. He was back to square one; how did he get Harry to talk to him and accept their bond?

{*} {*} {*}

When Severus was showered and redressed, he found Harry at the kitchen table, a hearty breakfast laid out before him. The Omega did not speak when he entered, continuing instead to read a copy of The Daily Prophet while he ate his food, stopping for a long sip of hot coffee every so often. Severus went to the stove and silently prepared his own plate and poured a cup of coffee before sitting down opposite Harry at the table. He stared at the paper covering Harry's face for a long minute trying to decide how to start before he chickened out and began to eat his food.

Harry ignored the Alpha to the best of his ability. He was frustrated at himself all over again when the Omega could not deny the Alpha food. They had both gone with a minimal amount of food or drink during the heat and needed to regain their strength. So he bit his lip to keep from snapping as Snape sat down across from him. He read his paper and thought over the conversation he had had with Kreacher when he came downstairs.

Harry had asked specifically what Kreacher meant by the scent of his mate marking his skin. Kreacher had readily explained what he could smell from his master's skin and how he knew the scent from Snape's many years of service to the Order. Kreacher studied the puzzled expression on his young master's face, "Master was not aware of The Imprint?"

Harry was startled by the question and shook his head slowly. He remembered learning about The Imprint during his Alpha/Omega studies. He knew he and Severus had not chosen to initiate that portion of the bond and there was only one way in which it would have happened otherwise. He briefly considered the day Snape had him cover himself in his scent, however he knew The Imprint was much more than a direct transfer of scent from person to person. If Kreacher was correct, and Harry knew the elf could not lie to him, then Snape was in fact his Other.

It took a moment for that to sink in, and when it did Harry cursed loudly to the room at large.

"Bollocks!"

As if he had not had his fair share of grief in his life, Destiny seemed to have chosen him a mate who had only treated him with cruelty and contempt; anger conveniently making him forget the more caring moments between them thus far. It simply had to be some great cosmic joke. How was he supposed to build a life and be happy with a man like that...a man he couldn't really trust.

Harry knew he would have to speak to Snape at some point. One couldn't really ignore a bond without repercussions for both mates. Harry had resolved to speak with him after he had calmed down a bit and distanced himself from this heat. However, he still had to get through the morning and there was the challenge he faced. He was still muddling through his thoughts and doing his best not to fly off the handle while Snape ate his breakfast. He desperately needed distance from the Alpha to clear his head.

Severus had finished his entire meal and collected a second cup of coffee before Harry even put the paper down, though he still did not look at him. He watched as Harry stood and got himself a refill without a word. This was ludicrous, he had to say something.

"Thank you for the breakfast, Harry." He practically blurted out. It wasn't much but surely he got points for effort.

Harry glanced at him, replying with a small grunt, "Kreacher." That was all he said, not anxious to continue the conversation with Snape just yet. Harry sat back down, reaching for a copy of The Quibbler in silence.

Severus's frustration finally spilled out. "Harry, we have to discuss this. There are things we need to see about, things to do." When no response was immediately forthcoming he continued, "We should speak to Dumbledore, he can have your things moved to my rooms without much difficulty and it would be easier to do now, before school resumes. There will be enough to explain anyway …"

"No." It came out soft and steady and Severus wasn't sure what he had heard.

"What? What did you say Harry?"

Harry calmly laid the paper down, his voice coming out a bit louder and laced with an edge of cold steel. "I said no. We will not be speaking to Dumbledore. I will not be moving into your rooms and there will be nothing to explain to anyone."

Severus could only look at Harry with confusion, "What do you mean Harry? We are bonded, we will have to explain, we will need to be close...it's for the good of the relationship."

That did it. That pushed Harry right past the point of control he had fought for all morning. "I said No! No to other people taking charge of my life and no to making decisions that affect me without considering my thoughts or feelings in the matter! WE do not have a relationship beyond professor and student and the insatiable need to fuck each other every three months. That is nothing to build a future on, yet you assume that I am ready to move in and begin to play the happy housewife?! Are you insane?! You know absolutely nothing about me as a person and have even less use for me unless I am warming your bed. You have manipulated me, dictated the choices I had...hurt me…" He didn't mean to confess that, but it slipped out in the heat of his emotions. He quickly squelched those feelings and continued. "This behavior has gone on for months now. I know little of the man you are and any time I tried to find out, you shut me down. But I know I can not trust you at the moment. There is no real relationship between us, and I am not sure how that may be changed."

Severus was floored by the outburst as well as the intense surge of emotional turmoil that radiated from his Omega in waves. He immediately wanted to defend himself but suddenly realized he wasn't sure he could. Harry had very valid points and every reason to feel as he did. The Alpha's shoulders slumped as he realized how much he had failed his mate, how deeply he had hurt him. It would take a great deal of time and effort to repair the damage and he didn't know where to start.

"I-I understand Harry. But you can't just ignore the bond...you know we will have to see each other...have to talk." He offered the feeble olive branch, hoping it was a start.

Harry couldn't stop the torrent of hurt and anger now that the dam had been broken. He only wanted to lash out and hurt in return, but struggled to minimize the damage he was capable of. "I will notify you when I feel I am able to talk, Professor Snape. For now, I believe you need to leave my home."

Snape could see the ragged control Harry was maintaining and worried about leaving his Omega alone and in this much distress. "Please Harry, let me stay. We could talk now, there are a few days before the term resumes. We could spend them together...I could even stay in another room if you'd like. Please."

Harry stood, placing both hands on the table, he closed his eyes and took a very deep breath before opening them again and pinning Snape with his fiery gaze. "I have asked you nicely. I need to spend some time alone and I have asked you to leave my home. You have made no movement to do so...please be aware that you have forced me to take this action." Severus's eyes grew wide as magic began to gather around Harry, his mate standing calm in the center of a maelstrom. When the magic reached some unseen peak, the fireplace erupted in a wall of green flame and Harry spoke, his voice imbued with other-worldly strength, "I said, GO!" An unseen hand grasped the front of Snape's robe, dragging him bodily from his chair and forcing him into the Floo even as he tried to protest. In a flash he was thrown out into Dumbledore's office, the fireplace going instantly cold behind him. He had no doubt that he would be unable to return to the house at all now. He lay there contemplating Harry's words while the image of his mate, stunning in the beauty and raw power of his magic, etched itself into his memory.

He needed to speak with Dumbledore.

{*} {*} {*}

Harry slumped heavily into his chair as he allowed his magic to dissipate. He was still too weak to have expended that much energy, but it was necessary. The unintentional bonus of his magical outburst was that much of his internalized anger had vanished and he could think a bit more clearly about things. He was well aware that the Omega was distressed that he had sent Snape away, but he truly did need some time alone.

And he needed sleep. He didn't think he would have the energy to get himself upstairs any longer so he summoned Kreacher to help him. He was soon back in his freshly cleaned bed, clad in soft pajamas and ready to fall asleep sitting there. However, just before Kreacher left he thought of something he should do...the next step he should take.

Quickly summoning a quill and some parchment, Harry jotted off a quick note and gave it to Kreacher. "Please see that this is delivered, and plan on a guest for dinner."

"Yes Master. Kreacher will make it so. Sleep now."

Harry nodded his thanks and was nearly asleep before Kreacher had finished pulling the drapes and left the room. He would sleep all day, if necessary, to have the energy he needed. If he was going to have a future with the mate fate had dictated, he needed help.

There was work to be done.

{*} {*} {*}