Here's the new chapter, but sadly it will be the last one for a couple of days. Not purposefully, but I had a little accident cooking my lunch. Being the memory challenged person that I am, i forgot that a pan was hot, and picked it up with my bare hands. Suffice to say, my right hand is no longer in use until all of my blisters heal. My other story will also not be updated (obviously). Once again, sorry, but i should be able to type out the next chapters and upload them by next week.
Chapter 9:
Meetings
Severus arrived first and landed graciously on the living room rug. Harry quickly followed, but unlike Severus's landing, Harry almost fell over. Severus chuckled and caught Harry before the boy could topple over. "Careful now, love." He teased.
Harry wrinkled his nose and made a face at the man before snuggling into his side, feeling shy once again.
"Oh Severus, we're so glad you could make it." Harry turned his head to see a friendly looking plump lady who looked about in her 50s. Right behind her was a tall man who looked remarkably like Severus, albite a few differences.
Severus turned to them as well and nodded, giving them a smile. "I figured if I didn't, one of you would murder me." he pointed out dryly. Severus gently prodded Harry forward and proudly presented him to his parents. "Besides, I knew you were desperate to meet my mate."
The woman immediately walked forward and tightly embraced Harry. "How are you dear, it's a pleasure to meet you." She beamed happily.
Harry blushed and shyly returned her good. "You too, ma'am." he murmured respectfully.
The women tisked at him, "There's no such need for formalities. Please call me Eileen."
Harry blushed and nodded. Eileen released him and Severus's father replaced her. "Hello." He murmured quietly, "You can call me Tobias." He greeted as he gently wrapped his arms around Harry. Harry nodded and returned the embrace.
Severus cleared his throat and quickly took Tobias's place, wrapping a solid arm around Harry's waist. "This is Harry Potter, my mate." He introduced, smiling down lovingly at Harry.
"Come, let us sit at the table and talk." Eileen ushered them all to the kitchen where steaming food was already placed at the table. Severus pulled a seat back for Harry who gave Severus a soft smile and sat down.
Eileen and Tobias watched Severus with amused expressions. It was about time their son found his submissive. "Severus is treating you well I hope." Eileen turned to Harry and smiled happily at him. Harry nodded shyly in response.
"So, what year are you in?" Tobias asked, trying to get Harry to relax around them.
"Fifth." Severus smirked at Harry's shy responses and leaned down to whisper in his ear, although everyone at the table easily heard him, "It's alright love, they won't bite." Harry blushed and ginned slightly at Severus's parents.
"Oh Severus, I can't take it any longer. He is absolutely adorable!" Eileen cooed as she turned to the beet red Harry. Tobias chuckled loudly and nodded.
Severus smirked at Harry's embarrassment and grabbed onto his hand. "And cuddly also."
"Sev, you promised you wouldn't tell anyone that!" Harry accused.
Eileen and Tobias bit their lips to hide their laughs as Harry indignantly turned to Severus. "Sorry sweetheart."
Tobias cleared his throat to save Severus from his angry submissive, smirking the entire time. "So, how far are you two along in the mating process?" He asked.
"We just completed the second bond earlier today." Severus immediately answered, smiling with pride and satisfaction. Eileen and Tobias shook their heads at Severus's look of immense pride.
"Were there any problems?" Tobias asked, and they both knew what they were referring to.
Severus frowned and looked at Harry. "There was a minor problem."
Harry blushed. "It wasn't all my fault." he huffed.
"Oh dear, what happened?" Eileen sighed, shooting Harry a motherly look.
"My little Harry here decided he wanted independence." Severus answered dryly.
Harry pouted. "It wasn't quite like that." He said crossly, blushing at Tobias and Eileen's raised eyebrows. "I needed my wand, which was conveniently across the room."
Tobias chuckled and stared at Severus. "There's always some problem Severus. Be thankful it wasn't any worse than that. He could have completely left the room."
Severus's eyes darkened at that and he growled lowly. Harry sighed and looked up at Severus. "I wouldn't have."
Severus nodded firmly and kissed Harry's forehead. "Good."
Eileen smiled at how cute they looked then stood up and attempted to clear the table. Tobias sighed and wrapped an arm around her waist. "I'll get it later." He scolded lightly. "You know that I don't like you working."
Severus stood up and helped Harry out of his seat. "And don't you get any ideas. You will allow me to take care of you." Harry wrinkled his nose but let Severus wrap his arms around his waist and pull him into a hug.
From behind him he heard Eileen cooed quietly but Severus merely glared at her. "Don't even think about embarrassing him. He gets quite shy and I would like to be able to hold him on my lap without too much protest," he said dryly.
Harry smirked slightly and wriggled out of his arms. "I never protest."
"You protest all the time, and I wouldn't have it any other way you stubborn little bugger." He said affectionately. Harry blushed and relaxed in Severus's arms. The four stood there in a comfortable silence until the shrill whistle of a tea pot interrupted them.
"I'll get it." Tobias exclaimed as he stalked towards the kitchen and shooed the rest of them to the couches. Severus quickly sat in the armchair and pulled Harry in his lap.
Eileen chuckled and sat on the loveseat across from them, smiling the entire time. "Oh, wipe that grin off your face." Severus snarled. "What is so fascinating?"
Harry rolled his eyes. "Be nice Sev!" Eileen laughed at Harry's defense and lightly winked at him. "Oh, that's just Severus's usual grumpiness coming in."
Harry laughed and kissed Severus on the cheek. "I love your grumpiness."
A small smile broke out on Severus's face and he nuzzled Harry's cheek with his nose. "I'm glad," he said warmly. Just then, Tobias came out with several tea cups and the kettle full of hot tea.
Severus quickly served Harry some tea, then made himself a cup. "So Severus, tell us how Harry came to be your mate." Tobias said, settling down next to Eileen and puling her close.
Time passed quickly, and before they knew it, it was time to go. "Well, Harry and I have had an exhausting day, so I bid you both goodnight." Severus said as he offered Harry a hand and pulled him up before tucking him into his side.
Tobias and Eileen said there goodbyes and Severus and Harry quickly flooed back home. "They're nice." Harry yawned.
Severus smiled and kissed Harry's cheek. "You can tell they liked you very much." He commented as he walked into the bedroom.
Harry blushed and followed Severus, quickly ruffling through the dresser until he found a pair of pajamas. He shot a look at Severus beside him. "Umm…?" he trailed off nervously.
Severus sighed and turned to face Harry. "Harry, sweetheart, if you don't feel comfortable with this, then just tell me." he soothed. "I won't be angry, or disappointed. I only want you to be comfortable."
Harry bit his lip and stared at Severus for a long minute. The man stood perfectly still, knowing that Harry was looking for something, although he did not know what.
Finally, Harry looked away and quickly shucked his shirt. Severus paused for a few seconds to make sure that Harry was okay, then he also took of his shirt and pulled out another black top, this one softer and obviously made for the night.
Harry blushed then quickly changed his pants, turning to stare at Severus curiously. Severus, for his part, chuckled and placed his hands on his pants, ready to pull them down. He looked at Harry with a raised eyebrow then quickly released the button and gestured for Harry to come closer.
Harry did so after a moments pause and was quickly drawn into a hug. He purred lightly and wrapped his arms around Severus's neck, snuggling into his side. Severus chuckled and released Harry. "I love you." He said warmly then shooed Harry to the bed. "Now go lie down and look adorable while I finish getting ready."
Harry smiled slightly and padded to the bed, falling in a heap and curling into a ball. Severus joined him a few seconds later and drew back the covers while scooting in. He raised an eyebrow and Harry grinned before wriggling closer and winding his body around Severus's like an oversized teddy bear. "I love you Sev."
Severus smiled and tightened his arms round Harry's frame before closing his eyes. Harry stared at him for a few moments longer then he smiled softly and laid his head on Severus's chest, falling asleep in seconds.
"Harry, wake up love, it's time for breakfast." Severus gently shook Harry's shoulder, rolling his eyes when he only got a sleepy mumble in reply. "If you don't wake up now I will march into the Great Hall and loudly inform everyone that Harry Potter is sleeping in my bed after a long, exhausting night. Just imagine the rumors that will spread by afternoon." Severus smirked.
Harry quickly threw of the covers and glared at Severus, his hair a mess and his eyes still hooded from exhaustion. "Sirius and Remus would kill you." He pointed out.
Severus smirked and kissed Harry's forehead. "I would welcome the challenge."
Harry made a face and slid off the bed, stretching for a second before plodding to the dresser and pulling out his school uniform and quickly getting dressed. "Alright, alright, I'm ready." Harry soothed the impatient Severus, quickly walking over and wrapping his arms around Severus's neck as a peace-offering.
Severus hummed and sturdily wrapped his arms around Harry's waist, pulling him in for a long kiss. "About time," he murmured as he pulled away. He placed his arms around Harry's shoulder and steered Harry out of their rooms.
The walk to the Great Hall was quiet, but not uncomfortable. Every so often Harry would look up to stare at Severus, his concern growing when he noticed the dark circles under his eyes. "Sev, what's wrong?"
Severus looked down at Harry and pressed a kiss to his forehead. "Nothing love, I've just been very busy lately, what with organizing everything again after our week absence., as well as my lack of sleep during the actual bonding."
Harry frowned and stopped walking. "With what?" he questioned. Severus sighed, but at Harry's look he decided that he might as well answer his little mate sooner than later.
"I've been doing several background checks on the new Defense Professor." he said neutrally. Harry scrunched his eyebrows up. "Is he...dangerous?"
"No!" Severus said so suddenly and with such force that Harry could only stare up at him with a baffled expression. "No, he's not dangerous Harry. I won't let him even come close to hurting you." Severus said in a much gentler tone. "All of his history comes up clean, but I don't feel right about him. Just promise me that you will never be alone in his company, and that, if you can, you will come to me after every class with him."
Harry frowned then finally conceded with a sigh. "Alright Severus, I promise." Severus nodded firmly then offered him a warm smile. "But only if you promise to get more sleep." Harry quickly interjected.
Severus's eyes went flat and he pursed his lips. "I promise I will get more sleep." he agreed, "If you promise to not only agree to my prior term but to also accept. My. Role. As. The. Dominant." he stressed the last five words and Harry smiled sheepishly.
"I do Sev," Harry explained, quickly scanning his mind for a believable story that would relax Severus. He grimaced when only one came up...a very unpleasant one. "I just...don't...want my dominant to...be too tired to...protect me." Harry gritted out.
Severus missed Harry's pained face and pulled Harry into a hug, "Oh my Harry, tired or not, I am fully capable of protecting you. If you are worried though, I promise to get more sleep." Severus reassured.
Harry relaxed and gave him a beaming smile. "Fantastic, but we're gonna be late if we don't hurry."
Severus shook his head with an amused smile and quickly led Harry to the Great Hall, stopping just outside to give Harry a soft kiss, then stalking inside and taking his seat at the Head Table.
Harry quickly scanned the Gryffindor table then meandered over to sit next to Ron and Hermione. "Hey guys."
"Oh Harry, have you heard about the new defense professor?" Hermione said excitably.
Harry grimaced and nodded then told his two friends Severus's suspicions.
"We had our first class with him yesterday," Ron swallowed his food. "He seemed a good enough teacher, but he was creepy. Kept staring at everyone."
Harry frowned as Hermione nodded in agreement. "There is something odd about him."
"Well, I guess I'll find out soon enough. We have him right after lunch." Harry started but Hermione shushed him. Harry turned to look at her, but stopped wen he saw Dumbledore stand up to address everyone.
"Good morning everyone, I would like to start off today with an announcement." Dumbledore said loudly, his gravely voice echoing around the hall. "The fourth floor has been closed, due to rare circumstances. I suggest you not infringe unless you wish to die a very painful death." Dumbledore nodded then sat back down at his place.
The Great Hall was silent for a few second then whispered slowly traveled across the hall. "What do you think that means?" Ron asked Hermione, his eyes searching around.
"I don't know, the last time he gave a warning like that was in first year." Hermione frowned, obviously thinking to herself. "Maybe something else has been hidden here."
"Hey! You three stay out of that, and I mean it." Angelina said strictly. "You all remember what happened in your first year. Harry, you were out for three days unconscious in the hospital wing."
Harry blushed and looked away, cringing in the memory of that. A few other housemates, obviously having overheard the conversation teamed up with Angelina. "Don't Harry, come on, just forget about it." Wood urged. "The House Prank War is coming up, just focus on that."
Harry glared at them all. "Fine!" he snapped. Rona and Hermione exchanged grins, if there was one thing Harry hated, it was being teamed up against. "I'll leave the floor alone."
Everyone went back to eating their breakfast, satisfied with Harry's answer. Harry huffed and turned back to his food. "Bloody meddlers." he grumbled.
"Someone's a little grumpy this morning!" Hermione singed, laughing at Harry's affronted face.
"Come one Harry, relax. Like Oliver said, the prank war is going to start soon." Ron grinned somewhat evilly, making Hermione and Harry edge away from him. They had never seen Ron look so vindictive before. "There's a Hufflepuff that I really need to get back."
"Err...who?" Hermione asked hesitantly, not sure if she really wanted the answer.
"Ernie Maximillion." Ron glared. "That two faced bastard."
Harry groaned. "Ron, that was three years ago. Just let it go!" Hermione groaned too, knowing what Ron was still irked about. Ernie Maximillion was the boy who had immediately accused Harry of being the Heir of Slytherin then blamed Ron of assisting him.
"He's had it coming for those three years! Now I finally have the chance to prank him." Ron argued. Harry and Hermione shared a look but decided to leave Ron to his plotting.
"Come on, we have Herbology first." Hermione said as she grabbed her bag and stood up. "It's all the way across the grounds, so we had better hurry."
Harry and Ron grabbed their bags and quickly followed her out of the Great Hall. "Relax 'mione, we've never been late before." Ron panted as he and Harry ran to catch up with her. "Slow down."
"Not everybody has to arrive just as the bell rings." Hermione sniffed.
"We don't have to be the first one's to arrive either." Harry pointed out.
"Oh, we won't. Class starts in four minutes." Hermione said primly.
"Oh bloody-!" Ron and Harry shared looks and sped their pace up, rushing to get to class before they were late and received a detention.
They barely made it in time, sliding through the greenhouse doors just as class began. Professor Sprout shook her finger at them but turned around and began class, leaving the trio to catch their breath.
Classes passed in a blur, with Harry only paying close attention to Severus's, not that he actually made the potion correctly, and and even lunch whizzed by. Soon enough, it was time for Professor Greene's class.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione hesitantly entered the classroom and found that all the tables in the back had already been taken. With heavy hearts the three trudged to the front. Even Hermione didn't seem to be eager to be in the class, which was rare.
"Good Evening Class." Professor Greene said cheerily as he stepped into the room and stood in the front. "If you would all please take out your wands."
By this point, Harry was wondering why on earth Ron and Hermione thought him odd. It seemed the man was friendly enough, and the fact that they were having a practical lesson didn't hurt either.
"Now, today we will be learning about the compelling curse. Everyone repeat after me. 'Coactum.'" he instructed.
"Coactum." Everyone repeated with little enthusiasm.
Harry frowned at everyone around him. "What's wrong with you guy, he seems like a good teacher." He whispered to Hermione and Ron.
"Look Harry, he was weird before." Ron whispered back. "This guy isn't normal."
"Everyone! Please team up with a minimum of two people and practice this spell." Professor Greene said loudly as he came up behind Ron and Hermione. "Do you three know that incantation?"
Harry was about to answer with an affirmative when his scar seared with pain. He hissed under his breath and quickly shied away from the man. "...um..Y-yes." He stuttered out.
The professor nodded then looked at Harry for a brief second longer before walking away to as another group about the spell.
"What wrong Harry?" Hermione urged.
"Nothing. My scar just hurt for a second." Harry frowned. "That hasn't happened since...since last year." he looked away, wanting to avoid the topic of the Triwizard Tournament.
"Harry, you should tell Dumbledore." Hermione urged. "He would want to know."
Harry shook his head. "No, I'm sure it didn't mean anything." All three of them could here the doubt in his voice, although none questioned it. Harry had a sinking suspicion that this was going to be a very interesting year, what with him mating, Umbridge, and now this.
Harry shook his head and gestured to his wand. "Maybe we should practice the spell." he said evenly.
Ron hesitated, then a weird look crossed his face. "Harry...if you don't want to tell Dumbledore, then maybe you should tell Snape." Ron quickly suggested.
Harry stared at his friend for a few moments before bursting out laughing. "No way, he would go ballistic if he found out. I can't even believe you were the one to suggest it. I though it would at least be you, Hermione."
Ron blushed and Hermione clucked her tongue disapprovingly. "You really should tell him Harry, he'll find out eventually."
"Not if I don't tell him." Harry shrugged. "There would be no other possible way to find out."
Ron smirked. "If he was smart he would just get you drunk and let you spill everything." he pointed out.
"Ron! That would be illegal." Hermione gasped. "He wouldn't possibly."
Harry and Ron snickered at her affronted face. "Come on, lets practice the spell." Harry smirked.
The rest of the class period, Harry couldn't help but shoot the professor wary glances every so often. It got so frequent that even Ron noticed. "If your so worried mate, then why don't you go tell Snape?"
"Honestly Ron, what has gotten into you. I thought you didn't like him." Harry shook his head.
"Look, I don't. But you like him, and your my best mate, so.." Ron trailed off awkwardly but Hermione's squeal broke the silence. "Aww, thats so sweet of you Ron!"
Harry and Ron shot Hermione disgusted looks. "Don't get me wrong, I still think it's so weird that you two are in a...relationship."
Just then the bell rang. "Anyways, come on. Let's go back to the common room so we can help plan the pranks." Ron said as he picked up his bag.
Harry hesitated. "I'll meet you guys there in a few, I need to go tell Severus something."
Hermione nodded and quickly ushered Ron out the door, leaving Harry to walk to Severus's quarters, hoping the man would be there. When he got there he was relieved to see Severus sitting on the couch, drinking tea.
"Sev!" Harry cried as he walked over and sat next to him on the couch. It was amazing how much he had missed his mate in the short hours since morning. He was so used to being in his presence.
"Harry." Severus greeted with a soft smile. He pulled Harry closer and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. "I've missed you love."
Harry hummed in agreement and rested his head on Severus's shoulders. "Would you like some tea?" Severus offered, reaching over to pour Harry a cup.
Harry nodded and gladly took the beverage, closing his eyes and relaxing against Severus. "What happened, you look worried." Severus murmured softly.
Harry peaked open an eyebrow and offered Severus a shy smile. "Nothing, just tired." He said, feeling slightly guilty at the lie.
"Hmm, how about you lie here and let me hold you?" Severus suggested, wanted to be able to cuddle with his mate. It had been far too long of a day, and their separation was really getting to him.
Harry looked even more guilty at that. "Sorry Sev, but I can't. I have to go and have a meeting with my house." Here, he grinned cheekily. "After all, the House Prank War should be starting soon."
Severus scowled. "Oh joy. Try not to get caught, will you?" he pleaded. "And be careful, I know very well that Houses are unforgiving if they catch someone trying to prank them."
Harry rolled his eyes and kissed Severus's cheek. "Relax Severus, it's just a harmless prank way. Nothing is going to happen. Just as a warning though, I may have to spend some nights away." Seeing Severus's face Harry rushed to continue. "Only a few, and I promise I'll come in before."
Severus sighed and lightly stroked Harry's stomach, smirking slightly when Harry closed his eyes and hummed. "Fine, but remember love, I need to hold you for at least three hours a day or we will both feel the effects of our separation. You, with fear, and I with possessive thoughts and actions, as well as anger towards anyone near you."
Harry grimaced and curled closer. "I know, and I won't forget Sev."
Severus nodded then shooed Harry off the couch. "Now go on love, so you can go and act like a miscreant along with your housemates. And by the way, once you get back I want to know how your defense class went."
Harry halted but Severus's face showed no evidence of knowing anything about his scar hurting. "Alright." he agreed then quickly made his way to the Gryffindor Common Room, looking around suspiciously for anyone lurking around. To his surprise, so far no one had bothered him, and he made a note to ask Severus about it later.
"Hey Harry, glad you could come." Fred beamed as he pulled Harry inside the portrait hole and forced Harry to sit down in the huge semicircle surrounding the fire.
His arrival was met with several greeting. "So, we just planned out house order. First, we'll prank the Ravenclaws, then the Hufflepuffs, and finally the Slytherins." Angelina said as Harry whispered a quick hello to Ron and Hermione, whom he was sitting next to.
"So!" Angelina cleared her throat. "What do we what to do to the Ravenclaws, remember that last year they filled our common room with filthy ravens."
"Well." Angela, one of Angelina's closest friends, as well as another chaser on the quidditch tea, chimed in with a smirk. "We all know that they hate it when their work isn't perfect, so I suggest we charm all their quills so they spell wrong for a week."
Every smirked at that. No doubt at least half the Ravenclaws would have nervous breakdowns. "Any protests?" Angelina asked. No one raised their hands and she nodded. "Alright, now on to Hufflepuffs."
The next hour passed quickly, and it was decided that the Ravenclaw's quills would be cursed, the Hufflepuffs would have stuff around their common room switched and moved around every night until they finally told someone, and for the Slytherins, they would wake up on morning to find that during their sleep, their entire common room had decided to support Gryffindor's red and gold.
"Now, everyone be aware that the other houses will also be looking for pranks to pull on us. As soon as they do, we will get together to plan another onslaught of pranks, until one house gives." Oliver shouted with a wicked smirk.
Harry laughed and said goodnight to Ron and Hermione before quickly walking to Severus's quarters, already feeling the effects of not having been near him for the majority of the day.
When he finally made it he practically collapsed on the couch, only realizing a second later that it was already occupied. "Sorry Sev." Harry groaned as he rearranged himself so he was sitting on the dour man's lap. "Hope you don't mind." He sluggishly replied and he buried his head in Severus's chest, the aching of his body gradually subsiding.
"Took you long enough." Severus replied gruffly. He stood Harry up, ignoring his growl of protest and rearranged himself so he was sitting with his back against the armrest and his legs extended. "Come here love."
He pulled Harry closer then lifted him on the couch, pulling Harry in between his legs so Harry's back was resting against his chest. He rested his chin on top of Harry's head and sighed, gently rubbing Harry's stomach.
"I thought you said the bond would effect me so that I got afraid, it only ached." Harry mumbled lethargically, relaxing more when the ache slowly started to dissipate.
Severus sighed. "That wasn't the bond reacting, although in another hour it would have. That was just the effect of you being away from me for more than an hour."
"Oh." Harry said simply before closing his eyes and relaxing. Severus allowed the silence to settle for a few minutes before he cleared his throat. "Did your defense lessons go well."
Harry, too tired to realize what he was saying, quickly reiterated what had happened. "….and then my scar hurt." he explained drowsily.
Severus tensed then he forcefully calmed himself. "And you didn't think to tell me immediately?" He said acerbically.
"Wasn't going to tell you, but I guess being tired makes me...oh." Harry sat up and turned to look at Severus sheepishly.
Severus was torn between growling in frustration and laughing. If Harry was this loose-lipped while only tired, he would love to see what his mate told him while intoxicated. "And why weren't you going to tell me?" he questioned.
"Er...well, Because you kinda overreact sometimes Sev." Harry sighed and turned back around. "If it makes you feel better, I'll tell you next time my scar hurts."
"You had better." Severus glowered but pulled Harry closer to his chest and gently caressed Harry's sides. "Now, let us go up to bed. Merlin knows what other things you will spout in your sleep induced state."
Harry blushed but reluctantly stood off Severus's lap. Severus chuckled at his expression and swept to their bedroom. Harry rolled his eyes at Severus's dramatics and followed him, transfiguring his cloths instead of taking the time to change them.
Severus snorted and stripped of his shirt, smirking to himself when he felt Harry's stare. "Planning on watching me undress, love?"
"Hmm, maybe." Harry teased. Severus turned around and stared at Harry before slowly reaching for his pants, desperately holding back the laugh that wanted to erupt. Just as he had expected, as soon as Severus began to remove his pants, Harry blushed and looked away. It seemed his little mate was still shy.
When he finished changing, Severus climbed into bed besides Harry then softly pulled Harry to his chest. "Your shyness is adorable." He chuckled as he slowly stroked Harry's hair.
Harry leaned into his touch and purred softly, not opening his eyes. "Glad you think so." he mumbled.
"I do. Goodnight sweetheart." Severus smiled lovingly as he relaxed against the pillow with Harry curled into his side. "Night, Sev."
The next morning Harry woke up to find that Severus's wasn't in bed next to him. "Severus?" He groggily questioned, looking around confusedly until he heard the shower running. Harry groaned and shifted over, curling up next to a pillow which he used as a bad replacement for Severus.
A few moments later he heard the water turn off and saw Severus walk in with only a towel covering himself. "You don't know how tempting you are." Harry smirked, repeating the words Severus had said to him several days ago.
Severus smirked and turned around to face Harry. "Oh really." he gave a shark-like grin and motioned Harry closer.
Harry slid out of bed and padded over to Severus, gladly throwing his arms around Severus's neck and molding into the other body holding his. "Yes really."
Severus folded his arms around Harry's waist them trailed one of his hands down to cup Harry's arse, lifting up and forcing Harry on his tippy-toes. He roughly pressed his lips to Harry's and lightly nipped Harry's bottom lip.
Harry moaned lightly and obligingly opened his mouth, letting Severus's tongue wrestle his before quickly domineering Harry's mouth. Severus pulled away after several more seconds and looked down at Harry, love radiating off of him.
Harry relaxed against Severus's chest, trying to regain his breath. Severus smirked, and Harry pouted at how Severus didn't look the least bit out of breath.
"You don't know how beautiful you look right now." Severus murmured. He chuckled then lightly shooed Harry away. "Now, unless you want to have another kissing session with me in the nude, I suggest you allow me to get dressed.
Harry blushed brightly and immediately scampered away, lying back down on the bed and cuddling up to the pillow while he waiting for Severus to get dressed.
Apparently he fell asleep while waiting, because the next thing he knew the bed dipped beside him and his fluffy pillow was replaced by what he assumed to be Severus's thigh. "So I see I'm easily replaced." Severus smirked.
Harry hummed and opened his eyes to see that he was indeed resting with his head on Severus's lap. After a few more seconds he sighed and reluctantly got up and ambled over to the dresser where he pulled out his uniform and quickly got dressed, blushing when he felt Severus's stare.
As before, Severus walked Harry to the Great Hall, but before Severus could enter Harry grabbed his hand. "Oh, I almost forgot to ask!"
Severus raised an eyebrow but Harry didn't make him wait long. "Everyone has been leaving me alone, is that because we completed the second bond?
Severus instantly looked twenty times happier. "Yes, now that we've completely the second bond all of them should have lost interest. If there were any older potential dominants here then I would still be wary, however, everyone here is still too young to be that desperate for a mate."
Harry relaxed and smiled at Severus. "Good."
Severus nodded in agreement then bent down to kiss Harry's cheek. "I'll see you after classes." he murmured warmly then stalked inside the great hall, Harry following immediately after.
This day passed much like the other, and by the end of his afternoon classes, Harry wanted to see Severus it was like a constant ache. Immediately after his Transfiguration class, Harry rushed down to the dungeons and waited on the couch for Severus to finish up with his sixth year's potion lesson.
After what seemed like a lifetime, Severus banged open the door to his quarters, muttering something about idiots under his breath.
"Yup, I guess not everyone can brew potions as well as me." Harry grinned cheekily. Severus's head immediately snapped up and he raised an eyebrow.
"I believe the last time I let you brew something unsupervised you melted the cauldron and let out an extremely poisonous gas." He said dryly, walking over to the couch and sitting down next to Harry before pulling him into his lap.
"Details, details." Harry waved his hand in the air then turned and threw his arms around Severus's neck. Severus smirked happily. It was clear the submissive instincts had finally started making an appearance in Harry. It was about time too, considering they should have began to effect him around the same time as Severus's had, which was about a month after he had found out who his mate was and the protective frenzy had worn off.
"Did you have any problems today?" Severus murmured, lightly tracing patterns on Harry's waist.
Harry hummed in negative. "Nope, and before you ask, I didn't have defense today."
Severus smirked, "Oh, I know. I memorized your schedule before you even got it."
Harry raised an eyebrow and stared blankly at the older man. "You would." He shook his head then turned back around. Severus smirked at his response then lightly tickled his sides, delighting in the small laugh he got as reply.
Four hours later, Harry reluctantly rose from Severus's comforting embrace. "I need to go Sev." he sighed.
Severus instantly sat up and looked at Harry. "You will come back later, correct?"
Harry frowned. "I...I don't really know. Unless Fred and George plan something crazy I should." Seeing Severus's worried face he gave him another smile. "I'll send you a patronus once I get there, alright?"
Severus sighed but gave a nod. "Alright, but be careful. Oh, and pass along the message that if either of them touches you they will deal with me."
Harry rolled his eyes and walked out of their quarters, giving Severus a wave and a beam when he closed the door. Severus huffed and sat back down. "He's not going relay my message." he said flatly before shaking his head.
When Harry entered the common room, the first thing he saw was Fred and George surrounding Angelina, who was lying on the floor curled up in a ball.
"Hey, Ang. Come one, wake up!" Fred poked Angelina who merely moaned and half-heartily swatted them away.
"George?" Harry asked hesitantly as said boy fell to the ground laughing so hard he started crying. Harry was completely baffled as to why, until five seconds later, when Angelina groggily got up then caught sight of Fred.
"I'm going to kill you! What the hell Fred!" Angelina hissed as she glared furiously at him.
"Oy, Harry!" George chuckled. "Glad you could make it. We're gonna get started in a few seconds and decide how tonight's going to happen. Oh, and you might want to tell Snape that you won't be coming home tonight."
Harry raised an eyebrow at George's ominous tone but simply shook his head and walked away so he could sent Severus the patronus. By the time he was done, almost everyone was there, and Harry was quickly ushered to sit down in a circle, next to Ron and Hermione.
"So." Angelina said, still looking faintly irritated at whatever Fred or George did to her. "Tonight we will be pranking the Ravenclaws. Now, as to our game plan…" here she stopped and looked surprised. "Oh, I forgot my notebook in the quidditch stands. Harry, could you go get it?"
Harry shrugged and slowly rose. "Sure." Hermione and Ron immediately stood up as well. "We'll go with him."
Angelina nodded and as soon as the three were gone, she, Fred, and George grouped together and began plotting.
"Okay, our plan is to get Harry drunk and have him distract them while we go and charm everything." Angelina cleared her throat.
"Isn't that a bit mean to Harry?" a timid first year piped up.
"Normally we wouldn't do this, however, Harry is our one wildcard. Normally Oliver or someone else would do it, but they'll be expecting that. And if we make a first year do it, then they'll assume we forced you. Harry, however, is unpredictable."
"Besides, he says the funniest crap while drunk." Fred chimed in. Everyone who was present in the party the previous year, and who didn't have a huge back spot there, broke out in laughter.
"Oh Merlin, that was hilarious." Angela choked on her laughter and Lee had to pat her back. And it really was. During that party, someone has spiked the punch, and those that were coherent enough to remember the night all remember Harry getting drunk for the first time.
"Besides, Harry won't mind, and if it makes anyone feel better, we'll tell him when he gets about half-drunk." Oliver soothed.
Just then, the portrait hole opened up and Harry stood there along with Ron and Hermione. "Err..we couldn't find your notebook. Sorry."
"Thats okay." Angelina waved them down. "Okay, so the plan is to sneak in there and grab all their quills then spell them."
Harry, Ron, and Hermione nodded, but seeing everyone's stares Harry began to get suspicious, then seeing Oliver and several other seventh years whom Harry directly remembered being at that horrid party start to laugh, he figured out what was happening. "There is no way in hell you guys are going to get me drunk." he said flatly
"That's what you think, Harry!" Oliver smirked as he stumbled over and put an arm around Harry's shoulders.
"And Oliver's already drunk. Fantastic." Harry groaned. Everyone laughed and their circle split up, leaving Harry to be surrounded by a smirking Angelina, Angela, Fred, George, and Oliver.
Fred patted Harry's back sympathetically. "Don't worry Harry, we won't let you get into to much trouble. Maybe ask you a few questions, but really, thats it."
Everyone burst out laughing at that and Harry groaned again. "I'm never going to live that party down, am I?"
"Nope." George snickered. "You have a reputation now. Just get Harry drunk and he will literally tell you anything you want to know, and the best part is, it's all truthful."
"It's alright Harry, the fact that you can't lie to save your life whilst drunk is endearing, just unlucky." Angelina laughed.
For the next hour, All the seventh year tried to trick Harry into drinking, talk him out of leaving (twice), as well as physically restrain him when, half drunk, he threatened to tell McGonagall that they were getting him drunk.
By the end of it, The five seventh years were laughing so hard they could hardly breath. "You have to be the funniest drunk person ever." Oliver chuckled. "Here, lets test it to see if you're actually drunk. Harry, if you could describe Angelina in one word, what would it be."
"Bossy."
Angelina scowled and slapped George, the one who was closest, around the head.
"I've been trying to tell people this for years, but no one ever believes me." Oliver laughed. "Harry, where were you when I needed backup?"
"Probably in class, or doing homework in the library," Harry said seriously.
This only made everyone laugh harder. "Alright, lets go and set everything up." Angela laughed as she, along with Fred and Oliver, rounded everyone up and led them to the Ravenclaw Tower, casting a disillusionment spell on the all.
"Ang, where'd they all go?" Harry groaned. "Why the hell did I let you get me drunk, nothing makes sense now! These walls should not be purple Ang, they should be red." Harry turned to look at George beseechingly, "and where on earth did the celling go?"
"Come on sweetie, lets get you over to the Ravenclaws so they can enjoy you hilarious intoxicated state as well." Angelina grinned and she grabbed Harry's hand and led him halfway around the school until they were at the entrance to the tower.
"Now just be your adorable, drunken self, and everything should work out fine," Angelina encouraged before George knocked on the door and they both bolted away, leaving Harry to stand there alone.
"Yes?" A short boy with dirty blond hair said, answering the door.
"Hello." Harry greeted dutifully.
"Are you...looking for someone?" The boy asked dubiously.
"Err, yes." Harry agreed.
"Well, come on in then." He opened the door wider and Harry stepped into the room. Everyone's eyes immediately snapped to Harry, and before he knew it, a seventh year had led him to a couch and sat him down.
"So, Harry, may I inquire as to why you are here, during the prank war?" Someone asked icily.
Harry scrunched his eyebrows up and looked around, his eyes not focussing on anyone. "Hey, you guys...you guys have walls." he said amazed.
"Dear Merlin, is he drunk?" A burly seventh year asked. "Guys, come on, leave him be. The poor guy probably doesn't even now where he is."
"Earth." Harry answered so matter-of-factly that almost everyone smiled in amusement.
"Harry?" Cho asked in confusion when she noticed who was sitting down.
"Er yes, who are you?" He asked confused.
"I'm Cho." Cho explained.
"Bless you." Harry nodded towards her, which earned several laughs.
Cho laughed as well before shaking her head and sitting down. "So, what are you doing here?"
"Don't know." Harry slurred before yawning. He frowned for a second, then curled up and laid down, putting his head on the same burly seventh year who had defended him earlier.
"Err, do you want us to wake him up Jake?" Someone hesitantly asked.
"He's fine, just leave him." Jake, the big one, answered. What Harry hadn't known before he had picked his pillow, was that this particular man was one of the potential dominants whom Severus was talking about. Not only that, but Jake hadn't been thrown off by the Second Bond, in fact, it had just made him more determined.
"Wait!" Harry bolted up so suddenly that Jake, who was surprised to say in the least, instinctively put his hands on Harry's waist. "I forgot. I'm supposed to tell you that I will answer everything truthfully while drunk," he said in a monotone voice.
Everyone raised their eyebrows, first at Harry, then at a small group of sixth and seventh years who started laughing. "Oh Merlin, I had forgotten about that. Guys, he really will answer anything." someone from the back shouted.
"Hey, Harry. What's the password to your common room?" a tall kid whom Harry had never seen before asked.
Harry had just opened his mouth to reply when a large hand quickly covered his mouth. "I don't think your housemates would be too happy with you if you answered that Darling" Jake chuckled.
Harry squinted his eyes and stared unseeingly toward Jake. "Who're you?" he asked confused.
"I am Jake, and I am also one of the two remaining potential dominants at this school," he said proudly.
"Sev told me...told me that...there wouldn't be any." Harry said confused.
"And there normally wouldn't, however I came into my inheritance earlier than I should have, so my magical core is fully grown. The same thing happened with a Slytherin at this school, although that's all I know about him."
"Oh, well I don't think Sev would want me to talk to you, so I'll just...go." Harry mumbled, unsteadily getting up and walking to the door. Before he could leave, the same large hand grabbed his. "I'm not going to give up Harry, so tell Professor Snape that he had better be ready for a challenge."
"I'll pass along the message," Harry groaned then stumbled out into the hallway, slumping against the arms the reached out to catch him. "You stayed in there longer than I expected, well done." George said cheerily.
"Thanks." Harry said dryly and he was half led, half carried back to the common room.
Somehow, Harry made it back to his bed, although he distantly remembered Hermione sniffing in disapproval while she helped Harry up the stairs, and Ron laughing slightly as he helped Harry into bed.
The next morning Harry awoke to his head pounding fiercely. On his bedside table a small bottle sat with a note on top of it. Harry groaned then quickly read it smirking as the message it contained: Dear Harry, thought you might need it.
Harry quickly downed the potion, sighing in relief when all of his pain went away. "Thank Merlin." her groaned as he rose out of bed and quickly searched for his uniform before putting it on and rushing to breakfast, when he saw everyone already eating.
"Thanks for waking me up." He said to Ron and Hermione, who both shrugged sheepishly. "Sorry, but you looked err...tired."
Harry snorted and Hermione glared at him with clear disapproval.
They had defense again today, which instantly put Harry on guard. After that one incident his trust towards the teacher had diminished, and combined with Severus's dislike of the man, he about trusted him as much as a deer would trust the hunter.
Which is why he had no objection when Severus sought him out during breakfast and demanded Harry come to his quarters right after the defense class.
Strangely enough, during the defense class a small owl arrived for him. Harry shot a glance to the window, then looked at Hermione beseechingly.
"He won't notice Harry, everyone's up and about anyways." Ron whispered. "Quick, go."
Harry sneakily padded over to the window then untied the cream parchment, patting the bird on the head before it flew away.
He slowly unfolded it then read the letter with growing dismalness.
Dear Harry,
Although I would image most of last night was a blur to you, I remember it clearly. Please read my letter through, and do not show anyone. If you don't remember, my name is Jake Davis, and I am a potential dominant. Unlike most everyone, I was not thrown of by your completion of the Second Bond. There is one other who is still pursuing you, however, I wish to make it known that no one is as determined as me. I will prove my worth to you Harry. Please allow me the chance to get to know you. I do realize that you have a...potential mate already, however, you still have time to think about it before you are bonded. I would love the chance to meet you Darling, please, give me a chance.
Love,
Jake
"Harry, what is it?" Hermione asked, concerned over Harry's blank face.
"Nothing." Harry quickly stuffed the letter in his pocket and turned to smile at his friend. On the inside though, he was getting torn apart by two arguments. On one hand, he desperately wanted to tell Severus about the letter and let him take care of it, but on the other side, it was his fault that this had happened. It didn't matter that he was drunk, he had still allowed Jake's advances, and now he had to pay the consequences.
Finally, the logical side of his brain won out, and he decided that he would tell Severus, after of course, making sure to lock all the doors and conveniently situate himself on top of Severus.
With that thought on his mind, Harry waved goodbye to his two best friends and slowly walked to Severus's rooms, thinking about how he would bring this up.
AN: Sorry again, really.
