***This chapter contains M rated content. Please be aware***

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Chapter 8: The Upside of Brewing

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Don't believe your friends when they ask you to be honest with them. All they really want is to be maintained in the good opinion they have of themselves.

Albus was happily puttering about his office as he always did on Saturday mornings. He had long ago reserved that time of week to catch up with the portraits in his office as well as a few choice other paintings around the castle. It saddened him that many of the younger inhabitants of Hogwarts, both staff and student alike, did not take the time nowadays to converse with their depicted neighbors. People believed themselves to be far too busy and would rush by without so much of a hello. Often the only paintings that received any constant attention were those that guarded entryway, hence why it was always a highly sought after position amongst the subjects of the artwork.

He had just finished up having a rousing discussion about music with the painting of Sir Bernaton, a composer whose portrait hung near the library, when he heard the gargoyle statue that guarded his entrance move and his wards sound to announce a visitor on the way. Albus did not recall setting a meeting with anyone, bet nevertheless he sat back behind his desk to await his guest.

He did not have to wait long.

The door opened with a flair of dramatic that was instantly recognizable to the elder headmaster. Only one person came through his door—or any door for that matter—in such a manner. Severus was certainly fond of making an entrance. If the door weren't clue enough, a billowing set of black robes and a scowl sealed the deal.

"Severus! What a pleasant—"

"I am sure you knew I was coming. You are practically omniscient." Severus said as he took a seat across from Albus without further pretense.

"Actually, this is a total surprise. I only knew it was you when I saw the door open."

"Oh. Well, you still know far too much for any normal individual, and are meddlesome to a fault."

"Why do I have a feeling that this visit is not just a social call?" Albus said happily as he looked on at the tall, dark haired former student who seemed even more agitated than normal, which is saying quite a bit.

"When have I ever paid you a social visit?"

"Touché, my boy!" Albus was already enjoying this conversation immensely.

"You knew." Severus accused as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"I am afraid you will have to expand upon that particular thought before I can admit to any charge you are presenting Severus." Albus knew his eyes must be twinkling by now—especially if Severus's face was any indication, which it was—and he could not have picked a better midmorning activity. He had been planning on taking inventory of his candies, but the task could easily be put off for another time.

"You knew what would happen with me and Harry."

Well, Albus was not expecting that. In fact, he was now quite confused.

"I beg pardon, my dear boy, but has something terrible happened? Is everything okay?"

"Everything is fine! Damn perfect! That is the problem!"

Far too confusing. Was Severus feeling alright? Perhaps he needed a lemon drop.

"Forgive the broad question, but...what?"

"Things are good. Too good. Something should have happened. Something should have gone wrong."

"You are…you are upset because things are going well with your relationship with young Harry?"

"It should not be this easy!"

Albus had to chuckle. Really, Severus was such a pessimist.

"Why ever not?"

"Well it…it just should not be!" the wind seemed to be coming out of Severus's sails.

"You have yet to present any plausible argument as to why your relationship should be difficult or unbearable. Also, why, if I may ask, have you decided to blame me? Not that I do not enjoy our chats infinitely, but I am just a tad curious."

Severus did not answer right away. Drat! He really did not know why he had come here.

"This seems like just the scheme you would concoct."

"I thought that Harry asked you out to dinner at a ministry function. At least that was the story that Harry told me."

"Well, yes, but I am sure you put him up to it!"

"Regrettably, I cannot take any credit for this wonderful happening Severus. This is all you and Harry."

"Then—"

"Severus, why are you so upset?"

What could Severus say? He uncrossed his arms finally and brought them together in his lap. Albus was looking right through him with his cursed blue eyes and he was starting to find his previous irritation waning significantly. His shoulders slumped in defeat and he found his eyes looking off to the side to avoid the older man's stare.

"I love him." He finally said quietly.

Albus smiled. He had thought that this was the possible reason behind this whole ordeal and Severus had just confirmed it.

"That is just wonderful!"

"Is it?" Severus said as he continued to look anywhere but at his former teacher.

"Of course! I am so happy that you have found someone that makes you happy. That it is Harry is even better. This is cause for celebration! For elation! For—"

"For the bottom to completely to fall out of it!" Severus finished as he finally looked back at Albus with a glare, "For something terrible to happen as it has always happened. Now the damage will be even worse because I have allowed myself become…attached."

Albus contemplated the best way to address his wayward guest.

"Do you believe Harry to be of a character that he would hurt you?"

What? No! Harry was the last one that would do such a thing. Harry was loyal to the point of fault and had a nature that was so…caring…that Severus believed the sun would burn out before the young Gryffindor would hurt…anyone…

"No…"

"Do you believe that you would hurt Harry?"

"I would rather give up my potions than—" Severus's mouth snapped shut. He had not meant to yell that.

Albus was still smiling widely. 'Insufferable man,' Severus thought, 'taking pleasure in my misery.'

"And do you honestly believe that there is some outside force that will come between you two?"

Is there?

Would there ever be?

Great. Now he had something else to worry about! Fantastic!

"Let me put it another way….When obstacles arise—and they will arise as they do in everyone's life—do you believe that you and Harry's relationship is so weak that it would not be able to withstand?"

'Weak?!'

"No! That was not what I—"

"Well then I see absolutely no problem. Do you?"

Severus did not know how to respond to the question, so he opted for glaring a hole through the mahogany desk. This had been a mistake. He should not have come to the man with this. The only problem was that he only talked to two people, Harry and Albus. Since Harry was part of the issue that only left him the over-smiling, sweet addicted, bearded man in front of him.

Just his luck.

Always his bloody luck.

"Severus. Why don't you tell me what the real problem is here? I don't have to be all knowing to be able to see that something else is causing your irritation."

Albus settled more into his wing backed chair and waited for his answer, which he knew was coming. Severus may be stubborn, but even the largest boulder could be moved. One just had to know the way to move it.

"I am…unaware how to act around him now."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, that I came to the realization of my feelings at Christmastime and since then…I have found myself unaware as to how to act around Harry."

"Are you pushing him away?" Albus knew it was none of his business, but that had never stopped him before and he was not about to start now. He could also not keep the hint of steel from entering his voice. It would be just like the man in front of him to decide to distance himself from the caring young man simply because he was experiencing new feelings.

"I…I do not know. I find myself unable to form coherent thoughts and become apprehensive around him."

"So you have stopped seeing him?"

"No. I just look like a complete and total idiot all the time. I even stuttered one tome for Salazar's sake!"

"Ah, love is many a splendid thing."

"Oh shut up, cut the prose, and tell me how to fix this!"

Oh, now this was fun!

"Severus, are you asking me for relationship advice?" Albus could barely contain his glee. This was fantastic!

"No!...Possibly…damn…" Severus buried his face in his hands. This was humiliating. Where was his wand? He will just hex himself. Or hex Albus. Yes…that would be much more fortuitous.

"Now, now, my dear boy, there is nothing to be ashamed of! I think it is positively—"

"If you finish that sentence with anything insipid, then you shall find yourself very sorry." Severus pointed a finger in accusation at the headmaster.

"Then I won't." Albus laughed.

The potion master huffed, "This was obviously a mistake and I have tortured myself long enough! I should have my head examined!"

He made to get up and leave but was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. For an old man, Albus could be very fast. He turned back around and glowered at his captor.

"Now, none of that. Severus, there is no reason for you to act different around young Harry. You are always so dramatic," He held up a hand to stop the inevitable protest by the dark haired wizard, "There is absolutely no difference in your relationship. I believe telling him of your feelings is the best course of action in 'fixing' things."

"And if he does not return the sentiment?" Severus seethed.

Albus winked. An annoying habit in Severus's opinion.

"I do not think that is going to happen. Do you?"

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"Ron! Stop messing with the doctor's things and come and sit down."

Ron tried not to sigh too loudly for Hermione to hear, but really, she was sounding like his mum. Bloody miracle he was here anyway. They did not need some loony doctor telling them what was wrong.

"Why would he have them out here if he didn't want people messing with them?" He said as he continued to play with the little trinket that had been resting on a bookshelf.

"I am sure she has them here for her own personal benefit, not yours."

"The quack is a girl?"

"She is a very distinguished doctor in her field. Not a quack."

"Uh-huh. Sure." Ron muttered under his breath.

Even better; they had a female marriage counselor.

'Wonder who she'll side with.' Ron thought darkly.

Hermione resituated her robes and tried not to get too nervous. They had already had a fight this morning over clothing while getting ready for this appointment and she worried that they would, once again, fight while the doctor was present. Logically, she knew this should not bother her. Marriage counselors see this kind of thing all the time and probably witnessed more than a few marital spats during sessions. However, it is sort of like cleaning before the maid arrives. You know it's their job, but you don't want them to see all your dirty laundry.

"Will you stop messing with things?"

"Will you stop—"

Ron was interrupted by the door opening. A slightly plump, good natured looking witch walked through. Ron was immediately reminded of is mum once again. She seemed to be about the same age, with sleek brunette hair that had a few streaks of silver throughout and a smile on her face that immediately put one at ease. Ron was immediately suspicious. He knew how his mum could be. She could get you to do anything before you even know what was going on. It was a mother thing.

"Good morning! I'm Dr. Eliza How." She said pleasantly as she walked further into her office. She extended her hand first to Hermione since she was closest to the door and then turned her attention on Ron.

The red head realized he still had the little knickknack in his hands and gave a sheepish smile and set the object down. Dr. How didn't say anything about it and simply shook his hand.

Ron was at a loss and said the first thing that came to his mind.

"Ron Weasley. Uh…How do you do?"

"Hmm. Never heard that one before." Dr. How said dryly, but still with a smile on her face.

Ron had to pause and think before he caught the pun and immediately felt his ears turn pink. Fantastic. Now she probably thought he was making fun of her.

"I'm sorry I—"

"Oh! No need to apologize. I am a fan of those kinds of jokes myself. Won't you have a seat and we can begin Mr. Weasley?"

Ron took the chair indicated by Hermione. They weren't too bad, but just like most of the chairs at any doctor's office or hospital they left something to be desired.

"Now, since this is our first meeting I want to take this time to get to know you both as a couple and individuals and what you believe the issues are and what you want to get out of these meetings."

'All that can be accomplished in an hour' Ron thought in disbelief as Dr. How continued to talk a little more about her own credentials and history.

The meeting went on at a snail's pace. Ron opted to talk about himself to the doctor first. Hermione had looked very pleased about this, but really Ron just wanted to get it over with so he could zone out. He made his peace very quickly. Second youngest of seven, went to Hogwarts, fought a war, blah, blah, blah. He knew he was talking really fast and was really surprised that Dr. How was able to keep up; even more impressive was that she was able to take notes. The note-taking thing was nerve wracking. What could she have to write about? Was something he was saying going to come back to haunt him? The mounting self-consciousness finally took his toll.

"And the rest is history…" he finished rather lamely, "Uh. Hermione, you go."

His wife started on her own story of growing up as a single child and Dr. How began to scratch down notes once again. Ron had heard all of this before. It is near completely impossible to go to school with someone for seven years, fight a war, live with them and then be married to a person for four years and not know next to everything about that person. This allowed Ron's mind to wander.

He looked around the office. There were a lot of plants and pictures; that was the first thing Ron noticed. The pictures were generic paintings of flowers or seascapes. 'Must think they relax people,' Ron mused, 'Actually all these water pictures just make me want to go to the bathroom.' The room was distinctly feminine; though not disgustingly pink like toad Umbridge's office. No kittens either, thank God. Speaking of kittens, I what Merlin is doing right now. Devil Cat. Why did Harry have to keep that thing….I wonder if I can trace patterns in the carpet with my shoe?' So he attempted to do just that. He was able to draw a snitch…an owl…a star…a—

"Mr. Weasley?"

Ron's head snapped up from gazing intently at the shaggy beige carpet.

"Huh?"

"Dr. How was smiling a knowing smile that he knew meant he was caught. He wondered how many other husbands came in here and drew pictures in her floor. He could see out of the corner of his eye that Hermione was looking over at him with the evil eye.

Well, hell.

He focused on the doctor in front of him. At least she wasn't staring daggers through him. She just kept writing those damn little notes. He had the urge to steal the little pad of paper and see what she had written.

"Could you repeat that?"

The marriage counselor smiled and repeated her previous question.

"I said, would you like to discuss what you think are some of the problems with your marriage at this time?"

Would he like to? That would be like asking, 'Do you want to swim with hungry sharks?' or 'Would you like to stick your head in a lion's mouth?' or even worse, 'How about lying down in a bed full of spiders?'

No matter how pleasantly one asks such questions, death is the outcome.

"Uhhh…"

"Now, now, don't be shy. This is a good way to get our feet wet, just jump in and see where we swim to."

Another water reference. Now he really had to go to the bathroom.

'Sink or swim…stop that! No more water!'

"Well…What do you want to know?" he knew it was lame. Again. But he was putting off the inevitable fight that such talk would lead to. And he just knew that it would be entirely his fault.

"Try just telling me what you think is causing the fights around your house."

Oh. Well, that was easy enough.

"Well…We don't uhhh…have sex anymore."

Was he really talking about sex with a total stranger? Well, he hadn't been with his wife for over two months now. He would talk about it with Stan on the Knight Bus he was so frustrated.

"Oh, that hardly is why we are fighting!" Hermione cut in hotly.

"Just a moment, Mrs. Granger-Weasley. You will have your turn to speak here in a minute."

Hermione huffed and crossed her arms in front of her. Dr. How wrote yet another not and Ron inwardly smirked, thinking that for once she was writing something bad about Hermione.

"Continue."

"We have been trying for a baby since the summer and because of a book," here he looked over at his wife pointedly, "We pretty much stopped having sex except for once a month. Now not even that. She blames me for everything, she refuses to listen to anything that isn't in written form, she nags, she—" It was like a floodgate. Ron had thought he wouldn't talk at all at this deal. Now it seemed he couldn't shut up.

"I think that is enough right now Mr. Weasley." Dr. How held up a hand to stop his rambling, "What do you hope to get out of these sessions?"

Ron opened his mouth, but closed it quickly.

What did he want to get out of these sessions?

He didn't even think he wanted these sessions in the first place.

So he gave the great, non-committal shrug and turned his attention back to the carpet.

"Well, that is okay. This is just the first time. Now, Mrs. Granger-Weasley, would you like to share your opinions as to the instigators of your problems."

Hermione took a deep breath. "Yes, my husband and I have stopped being able to communicate. Ron is prone to bouts of excessive stubbornness and debilitating immaturity. I hope with these sessions to be able to regain our communication issues and to help with our…difference s in mentalities."

Those were big words, but Ron definitely got the gist of what his wife was saying.

"Are you saying I'm stupid?"

"Why must you jump to—"

"People!" Dr. How said in a strict tone that reminded both of them Professor McGonagall, "The purpose for this was to get our general opinions out on the table. We still have fifteen minutes but we may call it early today."

'There we go!' Ron thought triumphantly as he made to get up out of his chair.

"But, before you go…"

'Great…' he sat back down.

"I have a little homework assignment for you."

'Even better.' Ron could already feel his eyes glazing over.

"Before our next session I want you both to try and have a conversation a day. A real conversation. I would also like you, Mr. Weasley, to read a book recommended by your wife. Mrs. Granger-Weasley, I would like for you to hear your husband out on one of his ideas and find the merit in it."

The couple and the counselor said their goodbyes. Dr. How reminded them that their next appointment was in two weeks. Ron was not impressed that there was already a schedule set up without his input. He had the impression that Hermione had already set up several of these little meetings.

Bloody wonderful.

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"We aren't going back." Ron said firmly as they hung their cloaks up in the rack and went into the living room.

"How can you say that? I think Dr. How will help us out tremendously."

"You just like her because she gave us homework. It's like Hogwarts all over again. Yay." Ron said as he threw his gloves over on one of the chairs and began to take off his scarf.

"Those have a place you know."

"Oh my goodness! Here, you want to start on that homework now? Here's my idea for you to consider and find 'merit' in: Houses are meant to be lived in. Stuff can get a little bit messy. It's okay. I promise! The world is not going to implode because there is knitted wares on the chair."

"You do not have to be sarcastic about this. You are so closed minded."

Ron just rolled his eyes, "Does this count as our 'conversation' of the day?" He started to walk into the kitchen to make him a sandwich. Discussing feelings made him hungry.

Hermione followed him, hot on his trail.

"No! It most certainly does not! Why can't you just see that this will be a good thing?"

"I don't like that you already set up several appointments without asking me! You can't force me to go! I told you one time only!"

"I know that!"

"Then why—"

"Because I want us to work!"

"And going to this lady who reminds me of McGonagall is going to help us work?"

"Have you got a better idea? I'm listening?"

Ron opened his mouth to say something when a knock came at the back door. They both turned their attention to the door. Only one person used the back door really.

"Hi guys!" Harry said as he entered the cottage with a box in his hands.

"Hi Harry!"

'Yes! Saved!' Ron thought happily.

"Hello Harry." Hermione said with less enthusiasm than her husband, but with a smile nonetheless.

"You told me to come at lunch Ron, so here I am."

Ron avoided the glare he received from Hermione.

"Is everything alright? I should go. Yea, I'm gonna go and—"

"No!" both Weasley and Weasley wife said simultaneously.

Harry looked surprised by their vehemence and still looked a little insure. He had become very aware of the tension between his two oldest friends. More so than normal. At first he had just shrugged it off and taken their assurances at face value. Not anymore. Something was wrong. He wanted to know what the problem was, but was unsure if it was his place or not. Friend or not, a married couples private life should be as secret as they want it to be.

"Um, What is in the box?" Hermione asked.

"Oh, well, I brought that box of the new pranks from the shop that Ron asked for." Harry said as he quickly set the small box down and took his own winter jacket off. "By the way, the twins send their love. Actually they said, 'Give our dear Ronniekins a smoochie-woochie for us.' Forgive me if I don't follow through with that."

"Well forgiven mate."

"I can't believe you got even more pranks from your brothers. You are lucky that you don't get fired from your job for acting like a fool." Hermione said as she began to move about the kitchen to make some food. She hadn't meant to sound so hostile in the comment, but her nerves were still overworked from their fight. Harry coming when he did had probably been a good thing.

Ron's blue eyes became like ice.

"Harry, you want to do me a favor?"

Harry thought he should really go. This held nothing good. Nothing good whatsoever.

"Um, Sure Ron. You know I uh…like to help."

"Good." Ron said as he continued to look at Hermione who wasn't really paying any thought to them at the time, "Choose."

"Choose what?"

"Between me and Hermione. Who do you like better? Who do you think is right?"

"What?!" Hermione nearly shrieked as she turned from the counter.

"I am definitely going to go now." Harry was making a beeline for his coat.

"No, Harry, wait. You said you like to help, well this will help."

"I don't see how this will help anything."

"Are you going to choose or not?"

"Well…" Harry was thinking quickly. Perhaps a little brevity to the situation might loosen Ron up, "…Isn't Hermione always right?" He tried to say with a laugh.

Ron could almost see red. Was no one on his side? Even his best mate wasn't going to help him when he asked.

"You arse!"

Harry's eyes widened. Laughter was certainly not the best medicine here. He had made things worse. He began to put one of his arms through a coat sleeve. "Look, you are mad, I am going to go."

"Coward."

Harry stopped midway through putting his other arm through his coat sleeve. It was all he could do to not gape at ton like a fish. As it was he was still staring wide at his best and closest friend. Ron had called him a lot of things in anger. A lot. But never. Ever. Had the youngest male Weasley called him a coward.

"What?" he asked in shock.

"You heard me! You are nothing but a coward. You say you want to help, but then you go and run away when it gets too hard. Now choose for real! Or is that your choice?"

"No! And no Ron, I'm not going to choose who I like better. That is just ridiculous."

"Oh so now you think I am being stupid too?" Ron said as he got up from the table and stalked over to Harry. The red head was more than annoyed that even though he had the height and the anger, Harry did not budge or flinch once as he came up to him. Really, he took on a fighter's stance as the taller man approached him.

"I said nothing of the sort. I will not choose though!"

"Why not?"

"Because you are my friend!"

"Bollocks!"

"RON!" Hermione tried to interject.

"What it isn't fixing a sink or checking for nargles?"

"Ron, leave Harry alone this instant!"

"This is between me and Harry."

"No. It isn't. This is between you and me and Harry, I think you ought to go."

Harry nodded, fully agreeing with his brunette friend. In fact, it was the best idea he had heard that day.

Ron was having none of it though and put his hand up to keep the door shut.

"No. Not until you choose!"

Green eyes looked fiercely back into blue.

"Back off!" Harry yelled as he clenched his hands into fists.

All of a sudden, it felt as if some invisible force pushed Ron back a few feet. Two or three panes of glass and a few dishes broke in the small kitchen.

Ron had truly forgotten just how powerful Harry could be when provoked. His usual mild mannered personality these days certainly did camouflage it very well. The red head might have still been in a fit of anger, but self preservation is a powerful thing and he knew to not approach the taunted lion any more. Self preservation was not powerful enough apparently to stop his mouth from talking. He too balled up his fists and stood his ground…at hopefully a safe enough distance away from Harry.

"How can you say you're my friend? Hm? Friends make their friends happy. They do what they ask. They stand by them! They don't go all chicken just because of a simple little question. Gods, you can't even be on my side! You use to always be on my side! You're no friend. You've just become everyone's 'yes man'."

Ouch.

"Look Ron, I don't even know what the fights about. If you really want me to help I—"

"Harry," Hermione said quietly but with a terrible edge of rage hinting through. It wasn't directed at her green eyed friend though. Not by a long shot, "You want to help? Then leave please."

Harry nodded dumbly and finished putting on his coat. He felt a shiver run up his back and turned to look at the broken glass, "Sorry, 'Mione." He said as he waved his hand and the glassware repaired itself.

"Go."

Harry nodded again and left the through the back door. A few seconds later and the pop of disaparation could be heard in the dead stillness of the kitchen.

"You had no right to say those things to Harry." Hermione finally said.

"Whatever, I'm going out to the Burrow." Ron said as he turned around and walked into the living room.

"Who's running away now?" Hermione said as she once again followed her taller husband into the other room.

"Get off my back will ya? Everything is fine." Ron mumbled. Having directed all of his anger mostly at Harry had left him drained.

"You have a messed up definition of fine if—"

"Look, I'll leave. When I come back we pretend like this never happened like always. Deal?"

"That isn't going to fix things. Especially with Harry?"

"Well, it's what we got for right now. I'll call when I reach the Burrow."

"You are going to walk again? It's freezing!"

"Yea, so? I'm a wizard."

Hermione began to tear. She was really going to lose him. She had tried and failed. She always succeeded whenever she tried. Now when it counts the most she was to fail? It wasn't fair! She fell back on the couch and began to weep silent tears.

'Crap.' Ron thought as he dropped his cloak.

He walked over at the couch and sat back down. He was unsure of what to do to comfort his wife and the awkwardness was upsetting to him.

"I…I'll stay." He finally said as he laid a hand on her back.

Hermione looked up from her hands, "You will?"

"Yea…"

The two sat in silence once again. Neither moved from their spot.

"I do not know anymore if we are going to be alright Ron." Hermione said in a whisper as she looked back down at her hands.

"I don't know either…"

'…but I hope so.' He thought as he began to rub small circles on Hermione's back.

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January had proved to be quite the confusing month for Harry. The trouble with Ron and Hermione had been one thing. After the incident that happened a week ago, Harry wasn't confused anymore. Just hurt. Ron had come by the next day and offered a roundabout apology and Harry had said everything between them was alright. Truth was it really wasn't. He may have forgiven his friend for yelling at him, but the red head's words would not leave his head. Was he really just a yes, man? No. Couldn't be. He was trying to make his friends happy. That was all. He hadn't really seen much of Ron since.

Then there was this mess with Severus. The older wizard had been acting funny around him as of late. It wasn't anything major like avoiding him entirely, but Severus had all but stopped talking to him properly when they saw each other. Harry did most of the talking now and when the potion master did speak, it was usually choppy, unsure, and short. There was even one really odd time during Severs birthday when the man actually stuttered. Stuttered! It would have been hilarious if it wasn't as disconcerting as hell. Tonight he was going for dinner at Severus's house and was determined to get some type of answer.

Why was Severus acting like this?

Ron he could explain.

Ron was always prone to being a total prat at times.

This new behavior of Severus's left him clueless.

He hoped it wasn't anything bad.

He couldn't stand the thought of loosing Severus.

He loved the git too much.

Yep. Loved him. L-O-V-E. The singing snakes at the zoo had it right.

Harry wasn't aware when it had really happened…probably it was just something gradually that he had only realized shortly before Christmas. Christmas Eve only confirmed it. The sentiment he knew the stoic man returned…at least not verbally if he ever returned it, so Harry just kept the wonderful and light-hearted emotion close to him. He knew Severus cared, even if he wasn't acting normal right now.

He hadn't gotten to see the usually asinine man for two weeks now since Severus had gone to a brewer's convention in Spain. He had offered accompaniment, but Harry really couldn't get away since it was the start of a new semester at the academy. The past two weeks had been unpleasant to say the least and torture to say the most. He hadn't realized how close he and Severus had become until they were forced to not see each other. They wrote, but it just wasn't the same. Harry was a bundle of nerves over seeing Severus again. He just hoped he didn't attack the man in a hug as soon as he saw him. He didn't think Severus would appreciate that. Or maybe he would…

He checked his appearance in the mirror and tugged at the tight sweater for the millionth time. He knew Severus liked him in these clothes, but really it was so hard to get use to. He smoothed down his hair nervously and sighed. 'Good enough.'

He turned on his heels and apparated to the small house where resided the confusing potion master.

"Hello?" He called as he appeared in his designated apparation spot in the front hallway, "I come bringing gifts. He said as he pulled out a small bottle of wine and enlarged it.

"I am in the kitchen!" Came a reply.

Kitchen?

"You're cooking?" harry asked as he made his way through the house.

"It has been known to happen on occasions."

Hmmm…that was pretty snarky. Was his Severus back?

Harry finally entered the kitchen to see Severus standing at a pot at the stove. His hands were adding food ingredients and spices in the same precise manner that he brewed potions with.

"Can you cook?"

"I will ignore that jab for right the present and leave your taste buds to be the final judge of my culinary prowess."

'That certainly sounds like Severus.'

Severus finished what he was doing and wiped his hands on a towel before he turned and looked at Harry for the first time that night. He had missed those green eyes. He had really missed everything about Harry. How had he fallen this bad and not realized it? His discussion with Albus had actually…helped. He would rather wear pink than ever admit that to the crazy old coot, but there it was. He had decided that tonight was the night. When the time was right, he would tell Harry of his feelings.

He continued to gaze into those green eyes and noticed a kind of pent up excitement bubbling just under the surface. Almost as though he wanted to…

Oh.

Severus smirked and held out his arms.

Harry's eyes widened; as did his smile, and he rushed forward and accepted the invitation to a hug.

'I have become a sentimental ninny.' Severus thought as he held the young man in his arms tightly, 'How did he do this to me?'

"I missed you." Harry said into Severus's robes.

"The absence of your company was sorely unacceptable." Severus responded back.

Harry held on tighter before he let go and stepped back some, "It's good to have you back."

He meant it in two ways. Both physically and mentally.

'Is now the proper time?' Severus thought, 'No, best wait till after dinner.'

"Are you hungry? Dinner should be ready soon."

"Starved!"

Harry went to work opening the wine and soon the two of them had a glass in their hand and were catching up on their two weeks. The jokes and wit were back. Severus was highly energized from the conference and talked very passionately about the newest brewing methods or his own less than stellar opinions of fellow brewers. Harry enjoyed listening and found it highly entertaining to watch Severus become so impassioned about his work. He actually looked quite dashing that way.

Harry did not have nearly as much to talk about, mostly work and trying to repair the damage done to his apartment by a certain black furred kitten that had recently discovered her claws. He left out the part about Ron. Severus already held a low opinion of his friend and he did not wish to exacerbate that situation.

Finally dinner was ready. They sat down and began the meal with earnest.

"This is good." Harry said after a few mouthfuls.

"Yours is better."

"This tastes just as good as my cooking."

"Liar. I am far to exact in my recipes. While my dishes always turn out correct, I do not add anything extra like you are prone to do; therefore my cooking lacks spontaneity and originality."

"Still good." Harry said stubbornly as he took another bite.

"You are too kind."

'Is now the proper occasion? No… perhaps a little later.'

Dinner continued and finished without incident and before long Severus was waving his wand to send the dishes to the sink to wash and dry themselves.

"You take all the fun out of doing the dishes." Harry pouted playfully.

"There are better things to do than dishes. Come."

Severus stood and walked from the small in-kitchen dining table and towards the living room again.

Harry raised an eyebrow in a very good impression of his companion, 'Indeed?' he thought as he stood to join Severus.

"So, what did you have planned oh, scheming one?"

Severus turned and smirked, "How would you like to make a potion this evening?"

Harry's face fell, "Uh, Severus…you do remember that I was terrible at potions, right?"

"No, you did not apply yourself in potions. There is a difference."

"You are going to let me make a potion in your private lab?"

"Not you. We are going to be making a potion in my private lab."

Severus turned and retreated down to his basement—er, potion's lab—not letting Harry argue the point anymore. The swish of black robes seemed to be the final say.

'Great.' Harry thought as he trudged after, 'He finally starts acting normal again and I'm going to blow us both up!'

The lab down there was much like the private lab Severus had had during his Hogwarts days only much smaller. He had already extended its size magically twice, but since the blasted thing had started out as an underground pantry he was not going to press his luck beyond that. The many shelves of ingredients and equipment, plus the two extended work benches, left the room so crowded that really only one person could fit walking through the aisles.

"How do you work in here?" Harry asked. He looked around taking everything in and absentmindedly took an apron from Severus and put it over his head.

"Very carefully." Severus stepped up and tied the strings around the younger man's back to secure the apron.

"What are we making?" the shorter, green eyed wizard asked as he approached one of the work tables.

"A simple bruise salve" Severus replied as he set to work getting the ingredients, "St. Mungo's has asked me to brew several batches for them. Since we seem to have fixated on an art theme then I assumed that the art of potions might apply."

Severus had indulged him on several of occasions. Also, it was pretty hard to blow up a bruise salve. But not impossible. Harry wondered where the protective goggles were.

Fire was lit under the cauldron and the potion began. Harry was in charge of preparing the ingredients while Severus retrieved things and administered the components of the potion at the correct time. Harry soon began to see the appeal of the art of potion. The tiny room meant that whenever Severus had to fetch an ingredient he had to squeeze by Harry. The green eyed man thought Severus was taking a lot of unnecessary trips, but was enjoying the close contact and brushes of hands far too much to comment. After all, who was the potion master here?

Eventually there came a step in the preparation process that caused Harry to pause in his work.

Thinly shred the port root.

Harry groaned. This had been one of his worst skills during Hogwarts, the ability to cut things properly.

Severus picked up on the distress and moved to stand behind his young assistant. He reached his arms around the shorter man and took his hands—knife and all—into his own. He felt Harry startle just a little bit before he relaxed into the embrace. A reaction that made Severus want to spill the beans right there and now.

"Let me help you?" Severus asked quietly in his ear.

"Uh, Sure."

They stayed close as they both thinly shredded the root. Severus closed still more distance until he was leaning right on Harry. The shorter man leaned back into the touch. Both Harry and Severus were getting lost in the feel of each other and it was only through Severus's ability to make potions in his sleep that the shredding of the root continued.

Severs tilted his head down and began to sniff Harry's hair, happy for their height difference. He could smell a superficial odor of potion's ingredients, but under that was the aroma of Harry's clean smelling shampoo and that unmistakable scent of Harry. Severus closed his eyes and leaned his head atop his shorter love.

Harry sighed contently and closed his eyes as well. This was wonderful. Severus was all round him and Harry was really about to recant anything bad he ever said about making potions.

"If you had done this in school," Harry said quietly, "I would have aced the class for sure."

"If I had done this in class," Severus responded just as whispered and breathy, "It would have killed the students and gotten us both in trouble."

"Touché."

Their eyes remained closed. A situation that was bound to lead to some problem when working with a sharp knife.

"Ouch!" Harry flinched. He did not yell, but his voice spoke of surprise and hurt.

Severus immediately turned Harry around to face him.

"What is the matter?"

"I cut my finger." Harry held up the injured digit.

Severus took the offered hand and looked at the small, but slightly deep cut. A trickle of blood was running down his hand. The potion master quickly waved his wand and cleaned up the blood and healed the cut good as new.

"You mean I cut your finger. I'm sorry." He said as he brought the hand up once again and lightly kissed the once hurt index finger.

Harry seemed in a trance, his eyes were sparkling brightly as he watched the tender gesture. He knew. Severus was never this way with anyone else. Only him.

Severs kept the hand close to his lips. Perhaps it was the intimate situation. Perhaps it was the potion fumes. Something caused Severus to do something he had never done before. Well that is not true. He had started to do so around Harry at an alarming rate. So not something, but someone.

He spoke without thinking.

"I love you." He said into the silent potion basement. He didn't see the potion beginning to over boil. He only saw green. Green eyes.

Harry sucked in a breath in shock. Had he really said that? To him? First? Was this really Severus?

Harry's silence from shock was misinterpreted by Severus. He began to pull back. Harry was having none of it and reached up to hold Severus's face between his hands, stilling the older wizard's movement.

"Do you mean it?" Harry had to ask.

"I would not have said such a thing if—oomph!"

Severus found himself with armfuls of Harry and his mouth covered by the younger man's. Harry pulled back from the kiss shortly after it started.

"I love you!" he said happily.

"You…you do?"

"Yes! I can't believe you said that!"

"Do you think me unfeeling even after all of this time?"

"Absolutely not. You are one of the most impassioned people I know. You are…or have been…quite secretive about your emotions in the past."

"What can I say, you effect me so."

"That is really—"

"Say 'sweet' and you will be sorry."

"I was gonna say hot." Harry said with a smirk.

"Indeed?"

"Oh yes, indeed." Harry leaned back in for a kiss.

The two continued the kiss followed by a few well placed caresses. Both riding high on the surprise by their emotional confessions.

Soon, it became apparent that staying down in the crowded lab when Harry bumped his hip twice and Severus knocked over a rack of vials with his hand.

"Upstairs." Severus said breathlessly as he moved away. "We will destroy the lab if we stay don here."

"Wouldn't be the first time for me."

"Not in this manner brat." Severus said as he quickly placed a spell that would place the ruined potion in stasis. He would clean it up later. It was worth it.

Severus grabbed Harry's hand and led him up the stairs and through the door to the living room. As soon as they were through the door Severus pushed the younger man against the closest wall and attacked that kiss swollen mouth. Harry moaned into the deep kiss and brought his arms around the taller man's neck. He really liked that spot. He loved Severus's hair.

Soon, large, potion stained hands found their way under Harry's sweater and worshipped the skin underneath with gentle touches. Harry found his body responding very…definitely…to the deep kisses and wonderful touches. His hands moved from the long black hair to the many many buttons that adorned the potion master's robes.

Severus had claimed at the beginning of the month that he did not want birthday presents and no, he wasn't kidding. Harry had respected the pessimistic man's wishes, but now, as Severus's hand wandered up his way to toy with one of his nipples, Harry knew something he wanted to give Severus.

Harry finally pulled apart from the narcotic-like kiss and looked up into those dark eyes.

"What color are your eyes?"

Well that wasn't what he wanted to say.

Severus looked perplexed, but answered, "They are dark blue."

"Really?"

"Very dark blue."

"Oh." Harry said as he continued to fiddle with the buttons. "Would you like to go up to bed?"

This time it was Severus who was surprised by the statement. Was he sure about this? Silly romantic Gryffindor.

"I do not want you to feel that you have to because of what I said about—Mph!"

He was cut off once again by a quick kiss from Harry.

"Will you allow me to finish a sentence?"

"Just did."

"Imp."

"Please Severus. Um…Take me to bed." Harry prayed he wasn't blushing too bad. Had he really just said that? Maybe it was just in his head. Judging from the fire that just ignited in those dark, dark blue eyes, Harry guessed he really had said that out loud.

Severus seemed to consider his young love for a few minutes before he reached a decision of some sorts. He could not deny Harry anything. Besides, the young man would probably stop as soon as he saw Severus in the buff.

He took Harry's hand and slowly led him up the stairs to the second floor.

Harry's mind was screaming that he should tell Severus this was his first time. However, one of the illogical parts—and there were many—of his brain were afraid that if Severus knew then he would not want to be with him. He knew the mechanics. How hard could it be?

Once they were in the bedroom Harry was only able to take in the big, canopy bed and dark wood furniture before he was covered once again by Severus's mouth and hands. All thoughts of nervousness left his mind as he began to moan and mewl into the kisses and lean into the hands.

Severus couldn't take much more of these noises. As smoothly as he could, which was difficult when attached to another person, to the bed and gently pushed Harry atop the mattress.

Clothing was pulled and tugged apart and soon both were before each other naked. Harry had been naked around Severus before. The older man seemed to like to get Harry in the raw whenever they decided to engage in intimate contact. Severus, however, had always stayed partially clothed. Harry took in all of the pale flesh at one time.

"I know I am not much to look at."

"Hush." Harry said as he brought a hand up and ran it down Severus's chest.

The taller man decided that now was the time to join Harry on the bed. He climbed up and over Harry, pinning the younger man to the bed.

Harry couldn't help the severe flare of nerves as Severus—a very naked Severus—was over him. On a bed. Oh, god, they were really going to do this.

Severus was leaning in for a kiss from his soon to be younger lover when he saw the flair of nerves in those expressive eyes. The look of uncertainty. The look of newness.

Shit.

"Shit, you are a virgin." Severus breathed as he leaned back away from the newly discovered innocent. That was why Harry had put off their coupling. Not out of a sense of propriety, but out of a sense of cluelessness.

'Crap!' Harry began to panic, 'Do I have a sign around my neck or something? How does he know?'

Severus was moving off of Harry. Harry knew that if he didn't do something now, Severus would bolt. He sat up and reached out to snag the older wizard's wrist.

"Don't stop. Please! I'm sorry I'm a virgin."

"You…are sorry? You have nothing to be sorry for. I am the bastard who just about took something from you that I had no right to take."

"Who says?"

"Well—"

"Don't answer that. I…I want you. I want this. Please?" Harry pleaded.

Severus sighed. I just wish you would have told me from the beginning that is all. I need to ask you."

Harry smiled. "Then ask."

Severus rolled his eyes at Harry's cheek, but a moment later his eyes were serious once more and he asked with sincerity, "May I make love to you?"

Harry sucked in a gasp at Severus's choice of words.

"Yes." He said on the exhale.

"You will tell me if I hurt you." It was not a request. Severus crawled back over till he was in his same position over Harry once again.

"I promise." Harry said as he went to remove his glasses. His hand was stopped.

"I want you to see. I want you to see everything that is going to happen."

A shiver ran down Harry's back and he nodded mutely, removing his hand from his frames.

"Keep your eyes open." Another quiet order.

Another mute nod.

Severus leaned down and began to kiss the younger man as he set to work on the body beneath him.

Soon, Harry was arching and moaning and making small noises that threatened to undo all of Severus's resolve and cause him to go too fast. Harry tried to copy some of Severus's actions which further drove the stoic man to insanity. A wave of possession rose up as he looked down at the rapidly clouding green eyes. All because of him. He was the first. He would be damned if he wasn't the only who saw Harry like this.

It was slow. Severus took his time. Although Harry did show some discomfort at the beginning he soon lost himself to the sensations and became so very responsive to Severus's intimate touch. Keeping his eyes open the whole time.

The end came with a shock and a cry from both men. Harry was looking at him with such adoration that Severus forced himself detached for only a moment to take in the look of Harry's face and commit it to memory.

Yes, no one else would see this.

They would have to kill him first.

The two lay still coupled together as they caught their breath. Finally, Severus rolled of his smaller lover and pulled him close on the bed. It took some time before their heart rates returned to a normal speed.

"Can I stay?" Harry slurred sleepily.

His eyes were beginning to droop but he was forcing himself to stay awake and continue to look into Severus's intense gaze.

Severus pulled him closer still and tucked the twenty three year old under his chin.

"Unnecessary question. Of course you can. You could stay forever and I would not oppose."

Harry nodded and began to drift to welcomed, highly needed sleep. "Love you."

Severus maneuvered his head to kiss the top of the most unruly hair Severus had ever seen. If Harry's hair was sticking up as though he had received a jolt of electricity. Severus felt a lover's pride that that very well could be the case.

He settled back down and joined his lover in sleep.

"I love you too Harry." He whispered.

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~Thank you for reading Chapter 8!~

Overly fluffy? Possible? Do I care? Nope. I am proud of this chapter. I hope at least I achieved a small level of hotness. If I did that, then I will be happy.

Tell me what you thought! I love to hear from readers!