Dear Reader, I think this chapter is far stronger than this website allows. If you want to read this chapter, you can find it at archive of our own dot org. Apologies.
It had to be fast. It had to be harsh. That was the ritual. That was the spell. After that, he could show Snape the softer side of it. He could show that he wasn't a monster. But first, he had to act like one. If Snape wouldn't drop his defenses, then James had to tear past them. On the bed, Snape pressed his back against wall. His bare skin revealed tension winding his muscles tight. His face held shadows, like a black panther ready to spring. He sweated threat, and James marveled that his friends thought this was a helpless man. It wasn't, but it was the closest he was going to get with Snape. The moment called for determination, not pity.
James approached cautiously. He knew that Snape still had fight in him. That made his limited supply all the more dangerous. He hadn't counted on Snape being strong and resistant, when less than thirty minutes ago, he couldn't be roused from a drugged stupor. He made sure Snape didn't forget who was holding the wand.
"Easy. I've got the wand, Snape. You may not mind pain, but you'll mind being petrified with your mouth open while I do anything I want."
Snape's beautiful mouth turned down as his eyes spat hatred. He looked like he wanted to speak, but couldn't produce words. James ignored the tears. They did not match the intent to harm behind Snape's eyes.
"I don't mind the fight." James started to unfasten is pants. "I'd rather fight you than fuck a corpse. Besides, you'll do more damage to yourself than you will to me. It'll only make things more interesting."
He stepped out of his shoes. "You and I both know why I have to do this. For six years, you acted like you couldn't see me unless I did something to get your attention. You stepped over me like I was shite in the street. You laughed when I tried to be your friend. You were too good to kiss me. Then you went and sliced my fucking guts out. Man, I'm telling you. You really know how to make a guy chase you. And what I'm wondering now is, is it going to be worth it? 'Cause you know what, Snape? I'm so ready for a fight. I don't want to hide anymore."
