Chapter 12
The room is warm. Flickers of light hit the walls as Severus strokes the fire. Watching the older wizard, Harry lays in bed with the sheets pulled around his pale skin. The night together was fine, enjoyable actually. Who would have guessed something initially so wrong could become this.
Harry continues to watch as the potion's master tends to the fire. It's odd really. One would think to use magic whenever possible to make things quick and easier but after living with Severus for some time, he's noticed the man likes to do things on his own with no short cut. Severus's back is bare, only his pants adorn his frame. Harry can't help but admire the muscles expanding as he leans further forward. And those hands showed such artful skill last night… Picturing their acts together, Harry blushes.
"You're awake. I hope I wasn't making too much noise. It was getting a little cold so I thought the fire would help." Severus says, walking over towards Harry.
The boy sits up some, wrapping the bed sheets tighter around his naked body. He can't help but feel rather exposed when Severus is at least partially dressed.
Another blush adorns his cheeks. "No, no. You're fine. Actually, I didn't hear you get up at all."
A small smile spreads across Severus's face. His eyes shine bright as he continues to stare at the Gryffindor. "Are you hungry?" he asks, pushing some straggling black locks behind his ear. Before Harry could answer, his stomach grumbles.
Severus chuckles, "I'll take that as a yes." Before Harry has any time to object or offer to put together something for them himself, Severus leaves the bedroom. Well, that was slightly awkward. Embarrassed, Harry groans and covers his face with the blanket. Can he do anything right? Maybe he can move on and make things not as tense. Yeah, that will help.
Finally somewhat more confident with himself, Harry gets out of bed and shuffles towards his room. Now for the hard part. What should he wear? Nothing that says 'I'm an awkward teenager' or 'You're an inexperienced child.' Severus probably would think that last bit after what they did last night. After going through half the clothes he was given when he was brought to Severus's chambers, Harry finally picks out a pair of dark wash skinny jeans and blue fitted sweater. There. Now he looks somewhat presentable. As he turns towards his bedroom door to head to the kitchen, Severus takes over his main line of sight.
"Oh." Harry lets out, surprised by the man in front of him. "I thought you were still in the kitchen."
Severus nods, some of his long hair falling in his face. Noticing the man has his hands full with filled plates, Harry steps forward and lightly brushes his hair back. Those wise eyes meet his. After what feels like way too long to be staring at someone in a doorway, Severus clears his throat. "So, would you like to eat back in my bedroom? I thought, since the fire is still going, it would be more comfortable in there."
Harry nods, looking away somewhat bashfully. That room will forever make him think of last night's activities.
"If you'd rather not, we can eat in the kitchen. I don't want you feeling uncomfortable, Harry." Severus says, his voice flickering with worry.
Looking back up to meet the potion master's eyes, Harry replies. "Your room sounds great."
Severus lets out a grateful sigh knowing the boy isn't afraid of him. "Ok, let's eat."
(Continue)