This chapter is dedicated to my wonderful translator Oswin321. Thank you so much for all of your help!
Tokey popped into view the very moment Severus exited the fireplace. He instructed her to fetch Harry just as the hearth emitted Lupin and Dumbledore behind him. With a wary gaze directed to the werewolf and the headmaster, Tokey disappeared with a crack.
"Well?" Lupin demanded. "Where is he?"
"Patience, Lupin," Severus sneered. "Potter is inclined to do whatever he wishes whilst he stays here. I do not make him wait in the foyer until my arrival."
Remus snorted but wisely held his tongue. Dumbledore gazed serenely around the manor, ignoring the two younger gentlemen as they waited for Harry to arrive. Approaching footsteps made the three of them turn, Harry stepping out into the large room with a mild look of shock on his face.
"Harry," Remus breathed. He rushed forwards to embrace the young man so quickly that Harry barely had time to register what was happening before he was in the werewolf's arms. "How are you, pup?"
A bemused frown appeared on Harry's face. Remus hadn't called him that specific pet-name since Sirius's death. Somehow, it almost felt… wrong.
"Er—fine?" Harry found himself reply, detangling himself from Lupin's embrace with an awkward smile. "How, um, was the meeting?"
"Illuminating," Remus replied, voice deepening into a soft growl as he threw a brief glare towards the Potions Master.
"Remus? Has something happened?" Harry began. He conveyed a confused look at Snape and Dumbledore, trying to gain an understand on the feel of the current tense atmosphere shrouding the room.
Severus's upper lip curled in disdain when Lupin physically moved himself in front of Harry's gaze, obscuring his view and forcing the young man's attention fully on himself.
I have had just about enough of this… Snape thought viciously. He stalked across the floor, robes billowing threateningly, barely pausing to utter the spiteful comment burning on his tongue.
"Do not let me hold up this tender reunion," he drawled with a scowl. Without waiting for an acknowledgement, Snape thrust the scroll of parchment containing Hermione and Ron's reply into Harry's free hand and stormed off in the direction of his potions lab, leaving Harry to stare after him in concern. His eyes shifted from his teacher's retreating back to Dumbledore and Lupin. The Headmaster was gazing at him in an almost apologetic manner.
"Remus has something he wishes to discuss with you, my boy," Dumbledore stated, "perhaps the two of you would like to find a comfortable place to sit and talk?"
"Oh—alright," Harry replied. He couldn't help but glance once more towards the corridor Snape had disappeared down. "Um, did you want tea or anything, Professor? I can call Tokey."
"I am quite fine, thank you, Harry." Dumbledore smiled warmly. "You and Remus go on now."
"Lead the way, pup," Lupin said, smiling warmly.
With his best friends' reply clutched safely within his left hand, Harry started towards the west wing of the manor, Lupin right on his heels. He felt slightly perturbed by the sheer closeness Remus seemed insistent on keeping and, despite Harry being the one to lead the way, the werewolf seemed to be guiding him, his large hand pressed into the small of Harry's back protectively. Harry found himself fighting the urge to pull away, not wishing to offend the Marauder, but certainly not enjoying the possessive nature his old professor was now exuding.
As soon as they entered the room, Lupin spoke.
"How are you really, Harry?" he asked. "You can be honest with me."
Harry gave his friend an odd look, stepping towards a couch. "Fine," he replied. He felt a faint frown tug at his brow as he sat down. "Why wouldn't I be?"
"I don't believe you to be safe here, pup," Remus stated bluntly, joining the young man on the couch. "I feel you should come stay with me, with someone who actually cares about you."
Harry couldn't help it, he flinched. Lupin's words stung more than he had expected them to.
"What makes you think Professor Snape doesn't care about me?" he asked briskly. "I don't know about you, Remus, but there hasn't exactly been anyone else here to comment on that fact."
"Harry," Lupin pressed, condescendingly patient, "come now. You and I both know the type of man Severus is. Look at the way he treated you just now—you deserve better."
"Actually, now that I know the reason behind your visit, it explains a lot," Harry shot back. "How else is Professor Snape supposed to respond? I'm certain you wouldn't be exactly pleased to be told you were distrusted enough to have me removed from your presence."
"I'm different—"
"Are you though?" Harry bit out quickly and Lupin blinked in shock. "I have known Professor Snape for seven years, and while he may have been an absolute arse to me for most of it, his presence in my life has been consistent. Even now, when Professor Dumbledore forced me into his care, he has not abandoned me. He's been patient and understanding under circumstances that he had no control over. Remus, this is the first time I've seen you since Christmas, and the only reason you're here now is to convince me to leave. You're not even trying to listen to what I'm saying to you."
"Please, pup, that's not true," Remus replied imploringly. "Don't you realise how much I wanted to make sure you were okay after the attack? I didn't even know where you were—"
"And yet before that you never came near," Harry interrupted and Remus fell silent. "Every time I've seen you, it was purely because of convenience. God, Remus, even Sirius went out of his way to check in on me! He broke in people's houses just to use their fireplace! Lived in a cave in order to be near to me! And where were you?"
The older male drew in a steadying breath, hands clasping together in his lap. "You're right, Harry, I haven't been around as much as I would have liked," he stated. "But allow me the chance to fix it. Come stay with me—you know I will protect and care for you. You deserve to stay with someone who can gave you that. There is no way you are truly happy staying here."
"I happen to like staying here," Harry retorted angrily. "Despite what you may think, Professor Snape has been supportive and caring throughout my time here. We've come to understand each other on a level I honestly did not expect and it works."
But Lupin was shaking his head, lips twisted in a wry smile. "Harry, Severus is very good at manipulation. That is what made him such an efficient Death Ea—"
"I think we're done here," Harry interrupted ferociously.
Lupin's face paled. "Harry—"
"No." The brunet got to his feet. "Look, I appreciate you trying, and it has been good to see you, but you're not listening to me. I don't need to leave—I don't want to leave—and you need to accept that." Before Remus could reply Harry had swept passed him, walking briskly down the corridor.
There were so many thoughts, so many voices yelling and arguing in his head that Harry could barely make sense of them. He just knew that the feeling within his chest was an ache, one that burrowed deep within him, burning and relentless, numbed only by the shock that accompanied the audacity of someone Harry thought he could trust. With a soft gasp air, Harry stumbled back into the foyer, left hand still clutching desperately at Ron and Hermione's reply.
"Ah, Harry my boy, did Remus—?"
"I will be staying here," Harry stated crisply in reply, casting a dark look over his shoulder before returning his gaze to the Headmaster. "I'm sure that is alright with you, Professor?"
Dumbledore smiled. "Certainly, Harry."
The young man nodded, gaze sweeping across the foyer distractedly. Taking pity on the young man, Dumbledore cleared his throat.
"Allow me to inform Severus on your decision." He smiled kindly, relieved to note the way Harry relaxed minutely.
"To know he's stuck with me? You may need to pre-emptively offer him some brandy first."
The Headmaster chuckled. "Suggestion noted."
It did not take Dumbledore long to locate the Potions Master. He was sitting sullenly in a cushioned armchair before an empty fire hearth, sneering at the stone as if it were personally responsible for his current situation.
"You need not state the obvious, Headmaster," Snape stated tonelessly, knowing as soon as Dumbledore had entered the room, "I am sure you have come to tell me Potter has decided to leave with Lupin. After all, it wouldn't surprise me—"
"Severus, Harry wishes to remain here with you."
"—why on earth would the boy want to stay—what?"
Dumbledore smiled gently. "Harry wishes to remain here with you," the Headmaster repeated patiently. "He seemed most adamant about it."
Snape sat for a moment, eyes still on the hearth. "The boy must be delusional."
"Undoubtedly," Dumbledore agreed in amusement. "Why on earth would he wish to remain with someone he feels safe with? Hmm, delusional indeed."
Snape lifted astonished eyes to the Headmaster's face. The older man was gazing at him knowingly, a gentle smile on his lips.
"You're good for him, Severus," Dumbledore stated. "And, dare I say it, he may be good for you."
Severus dropped his gaze with a soft snort but said nothing to deny the statement. It was true that he himself had grown accustomed to the boy's presence; Harry was now a face he was used to seeing across the breakfast table, a voice he was now used to hearing whenever he inquired to the boy's wellbeing. And, if he was honest with himself, Severus had taken a small token of pride in the trust Harry now bestowed in him.
A trust that was evidently strong enough for Harry to choose to stay… Severus thought with mild surprise. The boy is actually willing to choose to me over the werewolf…?
Without warning, a tumbler of brandy appeared beneath his nose. His gaze shot up to twinkling blue eyes. Was—was the Headmaster smirking at him?
"Harry mentioned that you may require some brandy to accustom yourself to this… turn of events."
Snape allowed his lips to twitch in the semblance of a small smile. "He may be worth the effort after all." He tossed the brown liquid back, relishing the gentle burn that ran down his throat, and got to his feet. "I suppose it would be polite to see the both of you off then."
"Indeed, my boy," Dumbledore replied with a soft chuckle, leading the way from the parlour.
Snape vanished the tumbler and fell into step with the older male, feeling a hell of a lot better than he had when he initially stormed down the corridor previously. As they neared the foyer, shouting reached their ears. A wave of frustration and protectiveness surged inside of Severus, surprising him greatly. He straightened his shoulders in determination all the same as he quickened his strides. He was more than aware of how fragile Harry's control over his magic was, especially under times of duress.
"I can't just leave you here, Harry!" Lupin's desperate yells fuelled Snape's anger. "Especially since you are not yet seventeen! If I have to, I will invoke a Guardianship!"
The proclamation was met with stunned silence. Severus could only imagine the outrage on Potter's face. Thankfully, he and Dumbledore finally reached the end of the corridor, stepping into foyer just as Harry spoke.
"I want you to leave. Right now."
"Harry, I'm just trying to do what I think is best for you—!"
"Professor Snape has done more for me these past two weeks than you have ever done!" Harry yelled. "How dare you threaten to take away my ability to choose! People have been controlling me my entire life and I've had enough!" The air around him crackled dangerously and, before any of the three older men could move, Harry's magic lashed out, shoving Lupin backwards with unrestrained force. The werewolf flew several feet away, landing with a thud and skidding across the polished marble floor, coming to rest at the hearth of the fireplace with a look of such utmost shock on his face Severus would have laughed if the situation had not been so serious.
"Oh dear," the Headmaster murmured. Severus cast him a glance, only slightly perturbed to see the slight look of amusement on the old wizard's face. A pair of sparkling eyes turned to him briefly before they swept back to Lupin still lying stunned on the floor. "Come now, Remus," Dumbledore said, speaking calmly as he walked towards the werewolf, "Harry is more than capable of making judgements and choices on his own. I do believe it is in your best interest to discontinue your attempts to coerce him before you destroy the relationship between the two of you."
Lupin accepted the hand offered to him and, with surprising strength, the Headmaster pulled him to his feet.
"You know very well Severus is trustworthy," Dumbledore stated evenly, "do not let your possessive nature to be close to James's son blind you to that."
Melancholy filled eyes fell on the young male in question. Harry was facing Snape, face pale, the shadows beneath his eyes more prominent, but looking the most relieved he had seen him since his and Dumbledore's arrival. Snape had a hand resting on Harry's shoulder, the other removing a vial from inside his robes. With barely a word spoken between them Harry accepted the vial and downed the contents. The grateful, however exhausted smile that he offered to the Potions Master, made Lupin's heart constrict.
That should be me…
"I know you consider Harry a part of your pack, and I imagine it is mighty hard fighting the pull of your werewolf senses within such close proximity of the full moon," Dumbledore continued, "but you must also respect Harry's decision or face the very real possibility of losing him for good."
Remus swallowed the sudden lump in his throat. He knew the Headmaster was correct. He knew his current possessive nature could be somewhat blamed on his very near transformation… but he also knew that deep down he had already felt guilty for abandoning Harry. For leaving him with barely a letter to pass away the time or show that he actually cared for him as much as Remus said he did…
"Come, Remus," Dumbledore said gently, "there has been enough excitement for one day. You can always write to Harry if you feel the need, I am sure Severus will find a way to ensure the letter is passed on."
Remus somehow doubted that but he did not argue with the older wizard. He nodded and felt Dumbledore brush passed him as he started for the fireplace. A spike of panic held the werewolf in place—he needed to apologise—
Wary green eyes met with his. Remus swallowed again, allowing the remorse to colour his face.
"I am sorry, Harry," he said roughly.
Harry's jaw tightened slightly but he inclined his head in acknowledgement. Lupin felt the overbearing need to go to him, to wrap the thin frame in his arms and reassure that he never meant to hurt him…
But he knew he would not be well received. Especially now. Instead, Remus followed Dumbledore to the fireplace and reached for the floo powder. Keeping his eyes on the sooty bricks of the hearth, he disappeared in a whirl of green flame.
Silence filled the foyer.
"Come, Harry, after all that excitement I could certainly use a pick-me-up."
With a small, perplexed smile, Harry followed his professor down the corridor to the east parlour. He was thankful that Snape was leading him to the opposite side of the manor, away from the room that had started it all. Entering the sunset lit room, the two of them settled near a large widespread window, one that overlooked a vast stretch of green grass. Harry stared longingly at the makeshift quidditch pitch at the far end of the stretch—hopefully one day… he thought determinedly.
"Tokey."
The elf popped into the room, falling into a curtsey. "Master be calling Tokey?" she squeaked.
"Harry and I will take an easy meal in here for dinner," Snape replied. "It has been a rather trying day and I believe we are both in need of some comfort. Some light finger food would be delightful, and please fetch my 1907 Waltmeister Firewhiskey and two glasses."
"Tokey be making a nice selection, Master!" she beamed happily, before disappearing with her usual crack.
A comfortable silence fell over the two men as they sat, watching the sun descend behind the border of dark-leaved trees that lined the grounds. Harry's left hand twitched around the parchment he was still clutching—he'd completely forgotten about Ron and Hermione's reply. By now the scroll was rather scrunched, so he ended up unfolding it than unfurling. He smoothed what he could of the creases before latching eagerly onto the words.
Harry! We're so relieved you're alright!
Hermione's familiar curling script brought a sad, reminiscent smile to Harry's face. God, he missed them so much.
We were absolutely beside ourselves when we had heard what happened at the Dursleys; Ronald had to be held back by Charlie to stop him from apparating there to help you! I tell you, Harry, one day that best friend of yours is going to get himself killed—
There was a splatter of ink and a smudge, as if someone had tried to wrestle the quill from Hermione's hand. Harry's smile morphed into a grin. It was pretty easy to tell who that would have been.
As I was saying! Don't worry, Ron will get his turn to write to you. If he behaves, that is. Stop reading over my shoulder, Ronald.
What has it been like staying with Professor Snape, Harry? You sort of brushed over that in your initial letter. I mean, I'm glad to see that living with Professor Snape has not been all bad but considering your old attitude towards him… in any case, Ron and I are both just so happy you're safe and well. Do you think the professor will work out a way for us to exchange regular letters? We miss being able to speak with you, and I know Ron is going out of his mind not knowing what's going on, especially since you're with Professor Snape of all people.
You're not missing much here, I promise. Ever since You-Know VOLDEMORT (need to get used to that, right?) attacked you, the Order has been working out how exactly he managed to breach the blood wards. So far with little luck. Most of my time has been spent keeping Ronald sane and giving Mrs Weasley a hand around the Burrow—I feel like I may be failing on both counts (haha).
Alright, I'll stop hogging the parchment now. I love you, Harry! We think about you every day and try whenever we can to wheedle information about how you're doing. Even though we can't sit in on the Order meetings yet (Mrs Weasley said not until we've left school despite being of age now), we still come to GP in the hopes that you might be there or so we can harass Professor Dumbledore.
If you get the chance, ask Professor Snape if he would happy to accept your birthday gifts so we can pass them on—there is no way we're going to miss you turning seventeen!
All my love,
Mione.
Way to hog the parchment, Hermione. Mate! How are you? Are you alright? Sick and tired of the Greasy Git yet?
Ron's scratchy handwriting and typical comments had Harry producing a soft snort.
Yeah look, I may have tried to get to you when I heard what had happened, but I was well within my rights! I'm seventeen, I can do whatever the fuck I want, and you were in trouble, what else what I supposed to do? Sit back and just hope you'd be all right and dandy? Fuck that! Let's be real, mate, you would have done the same for me.
Harry could not deny that fact and so in a way, he could not blame his best friend from trying to come to his aid. His chest ached slightly as he swallowed the growing lump in his throat.
Mum went absolutely spare when she heard about you though, so I feel kind of bad. I'm almost thankful Charlie held me back when he did. She said only Bill and Dad were to go and that was that. I've never seen mum that scared though—I hope you realise you've been officially adopted into the family, mate, because I've only ever seen mum go that crazy when one of us kids is in trouble. It took Ginny and the twins two hours to calm her down, and even then I think it was only because Fred spiked her tea with brandy.
That sucks about your arm, mate. Do you think it'll ever heal? You said Snape made you a potion to help—has it done anything? Probably not, knowing him. He shouldn't be giving you false hope, that's just cruel. Oh crap! What about Quidditch? Fuck, mate, I'm sorry, you've probably already realised that… shit I didn't mean to re-open that wound. Don't worry, maybe your arm will heal in time! Even if it doesn't, you'll still be Captain though, yeah? We'd be fucked without you. Ginny makes a pretty good Seeker, I'm sure she won't mind playing in that position if it comes to it.
I'd prefer her than anyone else… Harry thought honestly. At least it wouldn't feel as if the position was completely stolen from me… plus Ginny is always happy to ask for my advice when she needs it…
Just look after yourself alright, mate? I know it probably sucks being stuck with Snape of all people but at least we'll be back at Hogwarts soon, then things can get back to normal and you can ditch the Greasy Git.
Talk soon,
Ron.
Harry sighed softly. He knew Ron could only base his statements on their past animosity with Snape, but he still couldn't help the way he wanted to jump to the professor's defence. He hadn't been lying when he shouted at Remus before.
Beneath Ron's message was another paragraph, written by none other than Ginny if the messy scrawl was anything to go by.
Harry! It's Ginny. (Obviously). Just wanted to throw in my own well wishes and all that. I bet you're fine though—you've always been pretty damn tough. Just like me, probably why we get on so well, don't you think? Hey guess what! I chopped off all my hair. Yep, you read that right. Mum absolutely bawled her eyes out. Oh well. But sweet Merlin, Harry, it looks so good! I can't wait for you to see! Everyone else except Mum loves it, so at least I've got that going for me. Anyway, enough about my glorious hair.
Harry felt his mouth stretch into a grin. Leave it to Ginny to help take his mind off the negative aspects of his life right now. She'd always had a spectacular gift of reminding him to keep things in perspective, and the way she was able to normalise even the most anomalous qualities of his life helped Harry feel, well, normal.
Now, you listen to me, Harry Potter. Regardless of what's happened and how you're feeling, you just remember that you have an amazing family here thinking of you and ready to give you a hand whenever you need it. Even if you don't need the help, you just make sure you know we're here ready and waiting to offer whatever support we can. If you ever need to talk, or vent, or even kick and scream, you know who to turn to, yes? I can't imagine it's been easy to go through something of this magnitude with not many people to talk it out with.
If we don't get to speak before it's time, Happy Birthday! I'll sneak a shot of firewhiskey just for you.
Hugs!
Gin Xx
By the time Harry had read the letter, Tokey had popped back into the room to deliver the firewhiskey and accompanied glasses. He glanced over as Snape poured an inch into each glass and, with a small surge of surprise, accepted the glass the professor handed to him.
"Cheers, Mister Potter." Snape raised his glass in a small salute and Harry quickly mirrored the motion.
As much as he was warmed by the gesture, Harry only took a small sip, placing the glass down carefully as words he wanted to express buzzed around his mind. He should speak now, before the alcohol had the chance to hit his system; he didn't want Snape to think that his words were aided by alcohol.
"I meant it, by the way," he blurted.
"Meant what, Harry?"
"That you've done more for me these past two weeks than Remus ever has," Harry stated, staring at his glass distractedly. His words were met with an unexpected silence. Harry lifted cautious green eyes to find black orbs staring at him in wonder. Harry felt the sudden urge to continue. "After everything I—I just didn't want you to think I took what you've done for me for granted." He worried his bottom lip. "I really do appreciate everything you done, regardless of what other people might try to make you think."
Snape lowered his gaze as he raised his glass to take another sip. "Thank you, Harry," he murmured in reply, eyes focused on the smoking amber liquid.
Another comfortable silence fell over them. Harry took a second sip of the firewhiskey, calmed by the burn he felt as it slid down into his chest. A minute later, the quiet was broken by Severus's voice.
"I believe… given the circumstances," he began, "and considering the changing nature of our relationship as it were…"
Harry's brow creased at the hesitant tone in the professor's voice. Had he done something wrong…?
"That it would be more appropriate to use our given names. Within a relatively social or private setting of course."
Harry blinked. Snape met his shocked stare with a miniscule smirk.
"Yes, Harry, that means you may call me Severus… if you feel compelled to do so."
"I—" Harry cleared his throat. "That would be nice," he replied with a soft smile. "If—if you're sure?"
"I'm sure, Harry," the older man replied. "You have well earned the right. Of course, it would also make it less outlandish since Draco often refers to me by my given name, however you were still acknowledging me as 'sir' or 'professor'."
"At least Draco was kind enough not to lord that fact over me," Harry replied.
"Indeed." Severus chuckled.
When Tokey popped back into the room with a delicious array of finger foods, Harry and Severus fell into an easy, familial conversation, with brief pauses in between bites or sips of their drinks. The sun had fully set by this time and the room was now alight with hovering candles, their reflection glinting competitively with the twinkling stars now stretched across the darkening sky.
Harry was feeling warm and comfortable. A gentle breeze brought the sensual scents of summer in through an open window across the room and, as he drank from his second glass of firewhiskey, Harry realised this was the most content he'd ever felt, and with Severus Snape of all people. Their conversation grew more amicable, Snape sharing anecdotes of his time teaching at Hogwarts, and Harry returning the favour with comments of his life as a student, particularly how nerve-wracking it had been entering Hogwarts for the first time.
"You were such an impertinent first year," Severus teased, "Merlin save me if you had been in my house…"
Harry couldn't help the evil grin spread across his face. "Then I suppose you'll be shocked to know the Sorting Hat wanted to put me in Slytherin."
Snape's eyes narrowed. "You lie," he stated.
The young man shook his head, his evil smile developing into an easy grin. "The Sorting Hat was adamant; said I'd 'do well in Slytherin'. Of course, during the brief time between me finding out about Hogwarts and the actual sorting, everyone I had come into contact with had told me how horrible Slytherin was. So, naturally, I asked the hat to put me anywhere but, despite how much it wanted me in Slytherin." The brunet sat back with a satisfied smile, enjoying the look of disbelief of his professor's face. "Just imagine," Harry continued, face brightening, "how much you could have rubbed it in Professor McGonagall's face."
A dark chuckle slipped from thin lips. "That certainly would have been a perk," he admitted.
As the evening wore on, their conversation began to drift to more unsettling topics. Ever since the night of Harry's panic attack, they hadn't really broached the subject of his home life since, aside from Severus attempting to make Harry's experience at the manor as triggerless as possible. The young man began to admit certain facts that he'd kept hidden his entire life, knowing without a second of doubt that Snape would never ridicule or pity him. And, in return, the older man began to confess buried stories of his own.
"If this manor is yours, why do you not live here?" Harry asked, remembering Snape's comment on the very first day they had arrived.
Severus glanced about the room, a wave of disquieting memories invading his consciousness. "Because I do not wish to associate myself with the name it stands for," he replied simply. "My mother was born of the Prince line, a pureblood, and the only heir to inherit the name." He paused for a moment, sipping delicately at his remaining firewhiskey. "After my mother eloped and married my muggle father, my grandfather adamantly refused to acknowledge her in any sense of the word. Since my mother did not speak of them all that much nor let on to their true natures, I did not think much of their animosity until I tried to turn to them for help." Severus's jaw clenched briefly; the echo of betrayal and hurt was still a prominent memory. "My father was a lot like your relatives," he stated bluntly. "He abused my mother and I on a regular basis. I turned to my maternal grandparents, hoping to find some form of escape, and was very efficiently rebuffed."
Harry felt his jaw drop. "How could they do that to you and your mother?"
A heavy sigh left the older man. "Because my grandfather was a chauvinistic arse," he replied. "I will never forget the words he wrote to me after I tried desperately to seek their help: 'Your mother chose this life and it is of no consequence to us how it has turned out. Do not write to us again'."
"He didn't care," Harry seethed, "about his own daughter and grandson being abused?"
"He did not."
Harry felt sick.
"Needless to say, I turned my own back on my mother's side of the family. When my grandparents passed away, I was shocked to find that the manor and vaults had been left to me. Apparently, my grandmother had convinced her husband to keep them within the family. I could not bring myself to touch them, however. The Prince vaults remain untouched to this day, and the only reason as to why we are staying here for the summer is due to the secure wards that cover the land, ensuring your protection." Catching sight of Harry's parting lips, Severus pinned him with a glare. "So help me if you apologise, Harry," he voiced with a hint of frustration. "I would spend the remainder of my life here if it meant it kept you safe."
Harry shut his mouth immediately, offering a—if somewhat hesitant—nod of understanding. He wanted desperately for Snape to keep talking about his past, particularly about the statement Severus had made to Lucius Malfoy about the promise to his mother… but a yawn had him breaking those thoughts.
"It's getting late," Severus murmured. "I believe it is time for you to retire to bed, Harry, especially given the day you've had."
Fighting back another yawn, Harry nodded his head in agreement. He shoved his folded letter into his jeans pocket and stood.
"This was nice," he admitted with a soft smile. "Thank you… Severus."
The professor inclined his head. "Goodnight, Harry."
When the clock on his bedside table began to gong, Harry didn't even flinch.
He had been watching it for hours, eyes tracking the movement of the hands as they shifted from the early hours of the morning until they read eight a.m. The room was now bathed in a gentle light… but Harry's thoughts were just as dark as they had been when he'd cried himself awake from wicked dreams. Not even the dose of his healing potion had been enough to keep him slumbering.
Harry knew he needed to get downstairs. Severus would be expecting him for breakfast any moment now. But Harry could not gather the energy to even toss back the blankets covering him. With a shaky sigh, he shut his eyes, willing the dreaded ache in his chest to go away.
Why now…? Oh god, I hate this so much…
"Tokey," Harry croaked, drawing the duvet up even higher as he searched for some form of comfort. A familiar crack had him peering blearily at Tokey's blurry form.
"Young sir be calling Tokey? Oh! Is young sir not feeling well?" the elf rushed to Harry's bedside, yellow eyes gleaming with worry. "Should Tokey be getting Master?"
Harry shook his head. "No," he murmured. "I just… could you please tell Pr—Severus—that I…" his voice faltered, throat tightening. His fingers curled painfully tight into the blankets that covered him—what was he supposed to say? "Tell Severus that I'm feeling sad? Miserable? Like an absolute fucking wreck…?"
But Tokey seemed to understand his hesitation and she smiled tenderly, reaching over to pat him on his ruffled, messy curls.
"It's being okay, young sir," she said, her smile widening at his bemused expression. "You just be stayings in bed, alright? Tokey will tell Master and Tokey will bring you something sweet to drink."
Gratitude washed over Harry as he nodded. "Thank you, Tokey," he managed, feeling tears beginning to prick at his eyes. Ugh… today was going to be a rough one…
Harry had shuffled himself up high enough to drink the tea Tokey had brought him, his blankets drawn up around his chest, and found himself staring into the brown liquid distractedly as vivid memories swam unforgivingly through his consciousness. The hollow ache, which had diminished to a faint echo the past few days, was back in full force, the dark cloud a rumbling storm in his chest, fuelled by the pained thoughts that had risen to the forethought of his mind.
And he hated it.
But he was so tired.
As much as he wanted to shove the horrible feeling away, Harry could only permit himself to drift, as if he was barely treading water, on the edge of simply allowing his body to give in, to just stop caring anymore—
There came a knock at his door, and after a moment it opened, Snape stepping inside. Harry felt a tiny surge of nervousness at the sight of his warden; regardless of how understanding his professor may have been, it was still remarkably frightening to feel so vulnerable around anyone right now.
"How're you feeling, Harry?" the older man asked, coming to sit on the edge of the bed.
Harry's jaw clenched slightly and he shrugged. Immediately, a wave of regret crashed over him at his impassive reply; he didn't want to appear so rude or uncaring. Severus seemed to understand however, because he inclined his head and continued to speak.
"Is there anything you need?"
Snape's voice was so uncharacteristically kind, so unusually tender, that Harry could feel the fragile hold he had on his emotions beginning to shatter. He squeezed his eyes shut tight, swallowing thickly as he shook his head. His tightened his fingers around the warm cup to stop his left hand from trembling.
"N-No, I think—I think I'll be okay," he murmured in reply. "Just a… bad day. I get those sometimes."
"No doubt prompted from yesterday's events?"
Harry nodded again. "It brought back some bad memories. And I… I didn't sleep very well last night."
The nightmares were left unsaid, but Severus knew all too well what Harry meant.
"You take all the time you need today to do whatever makes you comfortable," Severus continued. "I will be in the potions laboratory for most of the day as I have potions to brew, but I want you to promise me that if you become distressed at any time that you will call for me, yes?"
"Alright," Harry murmured in reply.
"I will also be sending Tokey up regularly with food and drink. Nothing extravagant, I assure you. Simple meals that I expect you to at least attempt."
Another nod. "I'll try," Harry promised.
"That is all I ask," Snape said gently. "One last question and I promise to leave you be."
Wary green eyes rose to meet with black. Severus took a moment to analyse the boy's face, taking in the purple bruises that lined each eye and the lines of sheer exhaustion that made him look both older and younger than his years.
Snape allowed a small smile to grace his lips. "Would you like the snakes' company for the day?" He watched, unsurprised, as Harry's eyes brightened with relief and the young man inclined his head. "Very well, I will fetch them for you now."
Harry felt his heart swell slightly as he watched him stand, smoothing down his dark robes. As empty as Harry was feeling right now, he welcomed the sense of validity Snape's understanding and care brought him at that moment. The older male, usually so cold and callous, was being so candidly empathetic that it soothed Harry's ragged nerves, solidifying the trust he had with the professor.
"Thank you, Severus," Harry uttered, catching him just before Snape stepped from the room.
Severus halted, turning a brief look to Harry curled up on the bed. "It is my pleasure, Harry," he replied. With a final swish of his robes, Severus disappeared into the corridor, closing the door behind him with a gentle snap.
Despite not having plans with Potter until the next day, Draco found himself exiting the fireplace into the foyer of Prince Manor all the same, thoughts of joining his godfather while he worked on his mind. And if Potter just so happened to be there… well, who was Draco to miss an ample opportunity to ogle the Boy-Who-Lived?
After checking in with Tokey to see where Severus was located, Draco soon found his godfather midway through what appeared to be a batch of Pepper Up potion. He glanced around the lab hopefully, a flare of disappointment lighting up in his stomach when he caught no sign of the bespectacled Gryffindor.
"Good afternoon, Draco," Severus murmured.
"And to you, Severus," the blond replied. He glanced around again. "Potter did not join you today?" he asked as casually as he could manage.
Snape shook his head. "Harry is in his room. He suffers from the occasional downward spiral and unfortunately today is one of them. During these moments, he is most comfortable having time to himself in order to process his negative emotions. I will allow him one day to do so before I intervene."
Pale eyebrows drew together in a frown. "Why not simply intervene now?"
Obsidian eyes met with curious silver. "People require time to process emotions, Draco, whether they be good or bad. There are times when it is perfectly acceptable to allow someone to wallow as it gives them time to reflect and not feel pressured by social expectations. After what happened yesterday, it is no surprise that Harry is feeling the way he is." Snape caught Draco's questioning gaze and emitted a soft, indulgent sigh. "Lupin attempted to coerce Harry into leaving my care. Despite Harry's refusal, Lupin threatened to forcibly remove him, and the emotional strain has caused other deeper memories to resurface along with the supposed betrayal of someone Harry thought he could trust. He simply requires time to process, Draco, do not worry yourself."
"I'm not worried," Draco retorted immediately. "Merely… concerned." He stifled a huff of air, mentally pouting at the mere fact that Potter was sulking in bed. That didn't mean he'd have to be nice tomorrow, would it? Regardless of their blossoming friendship thing, he wasn't exactly ready to be genuinely pleasant. Draco had way too much sass for that.
"Should you manage to drag Potter from his room tomorrow," Draco pressed, "will I be expected to be somewhat… nice?"
Snape snorted. "The day you are nice to Mister Potter, Draco, will be the day flobberworms fly," he stated bluntly, eyes on the bubbling potion before him. "But in answer to your question, no, you will not. Harry will prefer it if you treat him as you normally do. He does not need to be coddled, he needs to be reassured that everything is normal."
"Thank Merlin," Malfoy muttered. "Well, since Potter is somewhat indisposed, is there anything you need a hand with?"
"As a matter of fact," Severus began, adding a pinch of Bicorn horn, "there is." He gestured to his left, not taking his eyes off the cauldron. "See there the dragonhide."
Draco stepped across the laboratory, his eyebrows pulling together in curiosity as he took in the large expanse of black pearlescent scales. "What is it for?" he asked.
"I am attempting to create a glove-like implement for Harry. Although the potions have indeed helped, there is still too much wild magic within his arm for him to be able to control it. Due to the durable-nature and the magical quality of dragonhide, I am hypothesising that it will give Harry the stability he needs in order to gain back the use of the limb. With some of my personal modifications made, of course."
Draco threw his godfather an impressed glance. "Rather ingenious of you, Severus."
The older man snorted. "Obviously, Draco," and Malfoy chuckled, eyeing the dragonhide thoughtfully. He was careful not to touch it, knowing how magically-pervious dragon scales were. No doubt that was the key feature that Severus was after; the glove would be unique, connected to Potter in a way that no one else would be able to attain. It would be what gave the glove the ability to help control the otherwise uncontainable injury.
"What would you like me to assist you with, Severus?" Draco asked.
"There are several potions I need to brew, two of which need to be completed at the same time. The dragonhide needs to soak in each of them alternatively over a period of three days. If you are agreeable, I would appreciate your help in brewing them."
"Of course," Malfoy replied immediately, feeling rather smug that his godfather trusted his brewing abilities. "Today?"
"If you are free. I would prefer to begin them as soon as possible."
Draco eyed Severus carefully. He was more than aware of how efficient and persistent the man could be; his usual facade almost always quelling any hint of his true desires. But watching him now, at how eager he seemed to begin the process of the glove, had Draco reeling slightly.
"Forgive me, Severus, but I'm curious. Why are you so impatient for this to be done so soon?" he asked.
There was a minute pause, Snape's hand hesitating as he reached for the stirring rod. "It is Harry's birthday next week," he replied. "I am hoping to have it done by then so I am able to gift this as a present. If the glove is successful and Harry can once again control his magic, he will begin to feel more like himself and I can begin to mentor him in Advanced Defence. And, of course, it would be beneficial for us to have as much time to do so before the school session resumes."
Draco suspected that his godfather's eagerness was more related to making Potter happy more so than the alluded teaching aspect but he kept his mouth shut. Severus had been in a surprisingly good mood every time Draco had come to visit this summer, it would not do well to throw a wand in the cogs.
True to Snape's word, the older man did not allow Harry to mope alone for longer than a day. Bright and early the next morning had Tokey urging the young man out of bed and into the bath, ready in time for breakfast. Although Severus did not press for conversation that morning, he made sure his intentions were clear in keeping Harry preoccupied that day until his inner turmoil had settled. Severus was already aware that Draco was returning to the manor that afternoon to engage Harry in games of wizard chess, but what Snape knew and Harry didn't, was that Narcissa would be joining them. She was insistent on getting to know the Boy-Who-Lived; the day her family had seen Potter for first time at Prince Manor had given Narcissa a terrible revelation, one she was rather adamant on rectifying. The young man needed a caring touch, and she was just the one to give it.
And so it was with blushing cheeks and a slightly agape mouth, lips parted in surprise, that Harry was greeted by a beautifully smiling Narcissa Malfoy who pressed a welcoming kiss to a red-tinted side of his face.
"It is lovely to see you again, Mr Potter," she said easily. "I do hope you don't mind me joining Draco this afternoon, I thought it would be a wonderful chance to get to know one another."
Grateful for the small nudge from Severus, Harry was able to shake himself from his shock.
"Of c-course, Mrs Malfoy," he replied, proud that he only stuttered once, "I don't mind at all."
"Excellent." Her smile widened as she turned to Snape. "Shall we, Severus?"
"Indeed." Snape summoned Tokey, ordering some tea and sandwiches to be brought to the eastern parlour. Harry and Malfoy then fell into step behind the professor and Narcissa, exchanging standard pleasantries and trying—and failing—to hinder snide remarks to one another.
"You look like you only just rolled out of bed, Potter, haven't you ever heard of a hair brush?"
"We don't all take three hours to groom ourselves, Malfoy."
"Perhaps you should take a leaf out of my book then—Merlin knows you need it."
"If you spent more time practicing quidditch than in front of the mirror maybe you could actually bring a challenge to our games."
Malfoy pressed a hand to his chest in mock-outrage. "You wound me, Potter."
"Not enough, apparently," Harry muttered.
Draco smirked.
The four of them settled in the parlour with tea and sandwiches. Harry was content to sit back and allow the others to provide the flow of conversation, offering his own replies whenever a question was directed to him. Narcissa was good on her word when she said she wished to get to know him. She asked many questions, inquiring after his interests and his favourite studies at Hogwarts. It was so impeccably ordinary that Harry could scarcely believe it. If it wasn't for Malfoy's regular and well-timed mocking comments, Harry would have felt too coddled, too overwhelmed by the kindness. That was, until Narcissa began to mention bringing baby photos of a young Draco.
"Mother!" Malfoy gaped. "You'll do no such thing!"
Harry snorted into his tea, unable to stop the chuckles that bubbled up within him.
"Oh, Draco, don't be such a spoil-sport," Narcissa replied with a small smirk. "You were such an adorable babe. I recall one particular photo, I believe you were three at the time, and you had somehow managed to get into Severus's office. Ink was everywhere."
"It was my most expensive ink as well," Severus added sourly. "Your hair remained splattered with black until I was able to brew a potion to clean it."
"Oh my god."
"Shut up, Potter!"
Harry laughed harder, tea sloshing inelegantly over the rim of his tea cup as he attempted to place it back on the table. With a roll of his eyes and a flick of his wand, Severus took over the task, allowing Harry to his belly laughs.
"P-Please, Mrs Malfoy, please bring those photos."
"Don't you dare!"
"Oh, Harry, of course! It would be my pleasure."
"Dear Merlin."
"Hush now, Draco, stop being such a sour-kneazle."
"Oh for—can I just kick your arse at chess now, Potter?"
"Well, since you asked so nicely…"
Malfoy stood from the couch with a huff, practically marching over to the small chess table set up by the open window across the room. Narcissa uttered a soft laugh and sent a wink in Harry's way as the dark-haired young man went to join him.
Harry had actually been enjoying himself that afternoon. Chess wasn't entirely horrible with Malfoy. He was certainly nowhere near as patient as Ron was, but the Slytherin tended to slide hints into insults whenever Harry took too long to make a move. Severus and Narcissa had continued to converse on the couch in between sips of tea, occasionally glancing over whenever a particularly loud exclamation of outrage reached their ears.
"See those white pieces, Potter? If you move them maybe you'll get somewhere."
"Now, now, Draco," Narcissa interjected cheerfully.
Malfoy looked up at his mother's approach. Harry's gaze was still focused determinedly on the chessboard, but when Narcissa continued, he lifted his head in slight surprise.
"Je rentre à la maison, mon Dragon. Envoie moi s'il te plait un message si tu restes avec Severus et Harry pour diner," the Malfoy Matron said.
"Oui, mère," Draco replied. "J'ai trouvé aujourd'hui agréable, merci de nous avoir rejoint."
Narcissa smiled lovingly at her son before turning her smile onto Harry. "I had a lovely time getting to know you, Harry, I would thoroughly enjoy doing so again."
Harry felt his cheeks warm. "Thank you, Mrs Malfoy," he replied. "That would be nice."
Severus stood from his chair. "I shall escort you to the fireplace, Narcissa."
"Wonderful, thank you, Severus."
Harry watched the two adults sweep from the room before turning a look of intrigued amazement towards the young man sitting opposite him. "I didn't know you could speak French," he stated.
Malfoy stared at him derisively. "Ever wondered where my last name originated from, Potter?"
"Well, no, not really."
"Merlin, how have you survived this long with the limited knowledge you seem to retain in that brain of yours?"
"Sheer dumb luck."
"Fair enough."
Harry wasn't sure when Malfoy's barbs had become amusing instead of hurtful. He gazed at the blond boy with a small smirk; Malfoy could be very quick-witted when he wanted.
"Do you normally speak French at home?" Harry asked then.
"Usually," Malfoy replied, staring down at the chessboard with a faint frown. "Also gives me the chance to trash talk straight to people's faces. It's wonderful."
Harry snorted. "I bet."
"It's still your move, Potter. Hurry up, will you? I'm dying of old age."
"I would be so lucky."
Translation:
"I am off home now, my Dragon. Please send a message if you will be staying with Severus and Harry for dinner."
"Yes, Mother. Today was enjoyable, thank you for joining us."
Reviews welcome! Thank you to everyone for your continued support!
