Letters: The Year With the Stone

by TwilightRamblings

When Harry Potter received his letter for Hogwarts, he hardly expected his cousin, Dudley, to receive one as well. And how will Professor Snape react to a Slytherin Harry? In answer to a challenge from Potions and Snitches.

25. Chapter 25

Okay, so to make up for the fact that I have been gone a month (sorry!) here is a 14,500 Christmas chapter. I can't believe I managed to get the timing right... Let's just say, Christmas in retail, especially lay-by, is exhausting 44 hour weeks that kill muses before they even think to get out of bed. This chapter has taken me so long to write - I finished it tonight. Between ill health, work, family, my birthday and the impending horror of Christmas (that there's sarcasm, I do actually love the holiday), I'm looking forward to tomorrow (Christmas) just for the chance to rest. Though I have discovered that I love typing on my new iPod touch. I won't make any promises on the next chapter, but hopefully - fingers and toes crossed - it won't be long.

As always - blonde and British are beyond me.

When Harry Potter received the anonymous gift of his father's Invisibility Cloak, Professor Snape decided that another anonymous gift of pictures of his mother would keep Harry in his dormitory and stop him from wandering. Instead the brat used the cloak to sneak to his office after hours, to thank him for the photos. He never did find out how the brat knew it was him.

Christmas came around fast this year, time speeding up through November and into the first weeks of December. Severus was relaxing in the staff room with a glass of elf-made wine a week before Christmas Day, reflecting on recent events when Minerva approached him.

"Well that looks tempting." Severus looked up at his colleague, who was pointing at the bottle Trixie had left out for him. "Planning on drinking all that alone, Severus?"

"Of course not, Minerva. Merely waiting for someone to come up and ask to share it." Minerva gave a light smile at this, seating herself in an armchair. "Of course, I do believe that you and I have earned this chance to relax."

"Oh yes, between Harry, Dudley, Ron and Theodore, we certainly have. What happened in the last Potions class that had Harry so contrite? He really was quite worried." Severus poured a glass for her while considering the question.

"That depends. Are you inquiring about Draco's distinct lack of tact when it comes to asking why Harry is remaining at Hogwarts while his cousin goes home? Or perhaps about the fact that Theodore punched him for implying that Harry was not wanted anywhere?" Severus let sarcasm colour his tone, remembering confronting the three boys about it. Draco had been unrepentant, demanding that Theodore be punished, while Theodore had stuck his nose in the air and maintained that it was the only way to deal with Draco's kind. Harry had merely watched the exchange with some sort of curiosity, as if he couldn't believe that they were fighting over him.

"Goodness, Theodore is quite protective, isn't he? How did Harry react? Apart from being worried that he'd upset you of course." Minerva took a sip of her wine and hummed in appreciation.

"Harry apologised, told Theodore to stop defending him then apologised again. In the end, I sent him off to his tea with you rather than punish him for Theodore's reaction. It was a pity that the Headmaster didn't approve the trip with the Granger girl. Harry would be a lot less lonely if he'd been able to leave the castle at Christmas." Severus tried not to dwell on his anger at Dumbledore over his decisions concerning Harry. That way led to madness.

Minerva's snort of disgust heartened Severus. He wasn't the only one upset, apparently. "Albus could do a lot more for that boy by staying out of it and letting him live his life. What's going to happen will happen, and considering the boy has the best protection anyone can offer, why restrict him for no reason?"

"Ah, but the boy's protection isn't the best, Minerva. The blood protection could be beaten in any number of ways. Diluted by the family growing in size. It might even be transferrable. The protection his family offer him merely stops the Dark Lord from touching the boy. It will do nothing until he has corporeal form." Severus had exhausted all the available references on Blood Magic he could find; none held the answer he was looking for.

"I didn't mean ancient Blood Magic, Severus. Don't think I don't know what you did to Quirrell. I assume you thought he was the one to push Harry off the stands." Minerva raised an eyebrow at him, making Severus feel like a disobedient student again.

"I merely asked him to demonstrate a block for me. If the man can't stop a blasting curse then he shouldn't have decided to teach Defence." Severus smirked at the memory of sending Quirrell into the solid stone walls of the Defence classroom. His anger at Dumbledore's warning to leave Quirrell alone after the incident had transformed itself into quite a bit of magical power and Quirrell had spent three days in the Hospital Wing recovering.

"Severus, do we have to go over playing nice with others again? It truly must be a hard concept for you." Minerva smiled gently at him and he smirked back at her. "After all, I heard you had an altercation with Sinistra again. What was it this time? Late class times or something else?"

"She continually harasses my Slytherins. It's not my fault the woman doesn't know how to pick her battles. She insulted Draco and Theodore practically in the same breath. And then picked on Harry's continued shyness. For all that Draco and Harry do not get along, Draco is warming to him. He is almost as protective as Theodore. Both boys went up in arms, rightfully so, and she gave them two weeks of detention. I didn't attempt to intervene, just caution her that she should be playing the dynamics better. The woman is a Slytherin, after all." Severus raised a dismissive eyebrow, silently asking Minerva whether she still disapproved.

"Draco Malfoy defending Harry Potter? My Lord, the world has changed a lot these days. Make sure Lucius Malfoy doesn't get wind of that."

"I have already forewarned Draco that Lucius may not approve. Of course, I will attempt to make Lucius believe that supporting Harry Potter would be an effective political manoeuvre. That should mollify him slightly."

"Now, about Harry. He seems to still be quite wary of you. In fact, I think he's even shyer than he was at the start of the year. I took a point from him for disrespect during class last week and he paled so quickly I feared he would faint. What has happened to make him jumpy?"

"Disrespect?"

"Yawning and generally not paying attention. He is having difficulties at the moment and I thought he needed a reminder that it was important he concentrate." Minerva sounded as though she believed she was justified and Severus personally agreed, in any other situation, she would have been right to take points.

"Be careful punishing him for appearing bored Minerva. He doesn't sleep well, which means he is quite possibly legitimately tired. I can't convince him to take Dreamless Sleep and he shouldn't take it too often anyway."

"Of course. I didn't realise. And his timidity?"

"Due mostly to the fact that he isn't sure whether he can trust anything I say or do when the Headmaster has the power to override it anyway. Did you know he sat in with my meetings with my Slytherins last week? On the very day Harry had his meeting? Harry refused to speak the entire time and when prompted by the Headmaster at the end of the time, commented quite rudely that he didn't wish to hand the Headmaster any weapons. His timidity around others is mostly because he no longer feels confident. He therefore reverts to the behaviour that kept him safe before because, God, look how well talking worked. Even without the Headmaster there I've barely managed to get anything out of him. His little group started avoiding the Potions classroom so he wouldn't have to confess anything to me until I revoked the deal. I confess that I find myself at a loss for what to do, Minerva. I want for him to trust me, but with the Headmaster holding this over my head, I can't even trust anything I say, so why should he?" Severus finished with a sigh, glad to be able to confide in his long time colleague and mentor.

"Oh Severus, I can't even give you a proper answer for that. I can't believe Albus would undermine you so much that you can't even interview your Slytherins privately. How did the rest of them react?"

"Badly. One attempted to pull his wand to deter the Headmaster from staying; obviously that wasn't going to work well. Both of the others picked the worst topics possible to discuss – both were abuse cases and chose to relate memories they'd already made peace with but would shock the Headmaster. He was decidedly pale by the end of the night."

"I'm sure he was. As much as I respect Albus, he does tend to wear quite a pair of rose-tinted glasses." Minerva looked around the staff room, leaving her eyes on certain teachers for a few moments. "Perhaps we should move this conversation elsewhere?"

"The Headmaster's glasses aren't just tinted, Minerva. And yes, we should. Do you mind if we move them to my quarters? I only have a few Slytherins left, but one of the upper years has taken a dislike to Harry and I've had to warn him once already. It would be just my luck if he tried something while I was relaxing half-way across the castle." Severus stood, directing a House-elf to take the bottle of wine and glasses down to his chambers. By unspoken rule, the teachers avoided drinking alcohol in front of their students. Too many accidents had occurred because of the "monkey see, monkey do" phenomenon.

"Goodness, Harry does manage to attract a lot of attention doesn't he?" Minerva stood more slowly and Severus felt a twinge of worry at watching the usually agile Professor reach out for balance.

"He does, yes. Are you quite alright, Minerva?" Severus held out his arm to the older woman, hoping she wouldn't take it as an insult. Her hand gripped his arm tightly as they made their way over to the door. Minerva didn't answer but Severus waited patiently until they were outside, knowing that if she was ill, she wouldn't admit to being so in front of the rest of the staff.

"Poppy believes that it's the flu finally getting to me, but I have genuinely felt weak all week. It probably is just my schedule catching up to me, but it was so sudden, Severus. One week I felt fine, and then the next, well, you saw." Severus scowled in worry, searching his brain for an answer.

"Has Poppy done blood tests? Administered Pepper-Up?" Minerva had been so focused on walking that they had been silent until reaching the Welcome Hall. Out of the corner of his eye, Severus spotted Harry making his way towards the dungeon stairs, and paused, pretending to allow Minerva to catch her breath.

"Yes, of course. My heart's a little slow but it's always been like that." Minerva waved off Severus' help and moved off, headed toward the stairs. Alarmed by the sway in her gait, Severus quickly caught up with her and walked quickly next to her.

"Any other symptoms? Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches?" Minerva gave him a look.

"You mean any other symptoms of the flu, Severus? Yes, of course." Severus clenched his fist, worried. "What's wrong? I'm touched you're worried but it's not like you to be quite so intrusive."

"Do you realise, Minerva, that your symptoms could also be from half a dozen other causes? Poison, for instance." The wide-eyed look Minerva gave Severus told him everything.

"Why on earth would someone be trying to kill me, Severus?" He quickly guided her through his office door, cursing at himself for making her worry.

"I don't know, Minerva. But if Pepper-Up hasn't had any effect and you don't have a fever, I highly doubt this is the flu. Allow me to take some blood and check, just for safety's sake." Severus unlocked his quarters and turned to face Minerva. She had gone pale at his accusation but he could see that she was contemplating the possibility. He guided her slowly to the armchair until she took a seat then moved back to stand in front of the hearth. After a moment, Minerva nodded slowly, looking up at Severus.

"Alright then, take your blood. Not that I don't feel like a pin-cushion already, mind you." Minerva held her arm out, flicking her robe sleeve back a bit as invitation. Severus withdrew his wand from his robes and quickly summoned a vial to store the blood in. When it arrived, he pushed Minerva's sleeve back and pressed the tip of his wand to the vein on the inside of her elbow. Transferring the small amount of blood to the vial, he then used his wand to seal the vial against aging, preserving the blood.

"I'll know by tomorrow. Come see me in the morning." Minerva nodded quietly, and Severus handed her wine glass over. "Forgive me, Minerva, for worrying you. I admit that I am a paranoid man; I merely feel this is suspicious."

"Oh Severus, really. I lived through the war as well, you know. I am well aware that I should be thinking about why this mysterious illness won't leave me alone. Poppy, while brilliant with children, hated the war. I believe she managed to banish every bad thought in the years afterward. I almost envy her the ability." Minerva shook herself slightly, pulling her sleeve back down. "Now, Harry. Why is he having problems with the upper years now; surely Flint's presence has put them off."

"It has. But Prefect Flint has returned home for Christmas, as have all of Harry's friends in both Slytherin and Gryffindor. He is currently quite an easy target." Severus sat on the lounge closest to Minerva, and sipped at his own glass of wine.

"Surely Harry has learnt enough jinxes to protect himself. Theodore and Harry were in the library earlier this month, studying a second-year defence book." Minerva was slowly recovering her colour and Severus felt himself feeling grudging respect for her Gryffindor ability to rally.

"Think, Minerva! What, above all else, do you notice about that boy?" Severus hissed in dismay when her question registered.

"He doesn't fight back."

"Exactly." Severus rose and began to pace. "I have tested the boy myself during their study sessions in my classroom, he is the best in his class at defence, yet when his cousin or the older Slytherins hassle him, he lies down like a dog. The Headmaster wants a weapon, yet this boy is so timid he will not fight back for his own safety. Hurt his friends and he'll take on a mountain troll. Hurt him and he curls up into the smallest ball he can make himself, trying to be invisible. He's in no shape whatsoever to be left to fend for himself. And it'll get worse, Minerva, if anything goes wrong this summer. Even if I stop it in time, it will still be a setback." He spun toward Minerva to see her regarding him with a bemused smile.

"Sometimes I wonder whether we Sort too soon, Severus." Severus scowled at the implications and sat back down. "Oh don't look at me like that. You know well enough that I don't mean it as an insult. Would Harry perhaps be happier moving into different quarters for the holidays? I'm sure Pomona or Filius would be happy to have him in their dorms, or he could stay in Gryffindor."

"The Weasley's have remained at Hogwarts, have they not?" Severus nodded as the implications dawned on Minerva.

"Then Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff?"

"Both are unfamiliar to him, with students that have shown no inclination to befriend him." Severus shook his head when Minerva offered to top his glass.

"Honestly, Severus, you suspect Hufflepuffs of danger?" Minerva smirked slightly at the image.

"Harry Potter is a Slytherin, Minerva. I'm surprised he didn't receive hate mail about it. He was meant to be a Gryffindor. Both his parents are Gryffindors. The entire Potter family has been in Gryffindor. I'm almost glad that James Potter wasn't alive to see his son Sorted. He'd be turning in his grave." Severus smiled a bit at that, then sobered as Minerva's eyes widened. "What?"

"You didn't know?" Minerva's shocked look remained and Severus sighed as he realised that he had probably missed another drama.

"Know what?"

"Harry's been receiving mail through Albus. The only mail that Hedwig carries is from Remus. He certainly did receive hate mail; quite a lot of it. Albus didn't even stop him from reading it. He came to me, quite upset, not long after the start of school. In fact, I think it was in the first week."

"While I was ignoring him because I wrongly assumed he was spoilt, selfish and attention-seeking. Well, that's certainly a reminder not to judge a book by its cover." Severus muttered darkly.

"In the interest of peace, I make no comment. Perhaps you should speak to him about it." Minerva had gone slightly pale again and Severus rose.

"And what better time than when he's alone for the holidays? Sorry to cut this short, but I want to check on my Slytherins before curfew anyway. Do you want to use my Floo, Minerva?" Severus reached out a hand as she stood as well, offering his help.

"Don't think I don't know that you're just doing this because I'm feeling weak." Severus countered the scolding with an innocent look. Minerva laughed shortly. "Don't try that on me boy, it never worked. Give my regards to Harry and tell him that if he has any troubles, my office is always open to him."

"Of course, Minerva." She pushed off of his arm and made her way through the Floo without answering and Severus worried more for his friend. This weakness of Minerva's was not going to go away on its own.

Half an hour later Severus made his way into the first year dorm in Slytherin. He spotted his only remaining first year sprawled on his bed, obviously studying.

"Potter, it is the third day of the holidays. Surely you aren't that eager to get your studying done." Harry's head snapped up and he rolled clumsily to stand next to his bed. Severus' eyes fixed on the black bruise under Harry's eye and he couldn't stop a growl.

"Good evening Professor." Harry met his eyes determinedly, as if daring him to comment.

"Am I to assume that Mr Rosier is to blame for that black eye, Harry? Because I vividly remember telling you to come to me if he came anywhere near you. I would say that he came quite close." Severus raised his eyebrow and spoke softly, knowing that Harry would pick up on his anger without need to raise his voice. The boy shifted on his feet and dropped his head, but didn't answer for a tense quiet moment. It was obvious to Severus he was debating whether to lie or not.

"I'd rather not talk about it, sir." Harry didn't look up but Severus knew he was referencing both Severus' explanation that not answering was better than lying and the deal Harry had proposed; the one that said that as long as Harry kept up with the facts for his little group's use of his classroom, Harry could choose which questions to answer.

"Very well, Mr Potter. I will allow you to once again, protect an abuser. However, this deal does not stand with Madame Pomfrey; if she asks where you got that eye, you must answer her honestly." Severus gestured for the boy to precede him out of the room. When the boy stood his ground and frowned in thought, Severus merely relaxed his pose slightly, waiting for him to speak.

"If I tell you who punched me, can you heal my eye, sir? Since you have to brew the Eye Balm anyway." Harry glanced up, obviously trying to guess his reaction to the offer.

"Since there are only two Slytherins currently staying here other than you and you have not left the common room all day, I believe that is a moot point, Mr Potter."

"Oh." Harry's shoulder's dropped, disappointed. "Can you still heal my eye?" Harry perked up slightly in hope and Severus sighed.

"Yes, you foolish boy. As long as I receive your word that you will report all injuries to me when they occur. Not when I notice them." Severus summoned the Balm from where he had it stored in his office and surveyed the boy in front of him after Harry nodded in agreement. "I really am curious as to why you are studying this early in the holidays. Surely there are other students you wish to socialise with while you have an abundance of free time to do so."

"They've all gone home for the holidays, sir. Teddy left under protest but his grandfather's coming over this Christmas, which means he has to go home. His mum was pretty firm about it." Harry sank back down to sit on his bed and Severus could see his disappointment.

His response was delayed by the arrival of the Eye Balm, which smacked into his outstretched palm. Harry looked over inquisitively, obviously not expecting Severus to have the potion. "After meeting you, Harry, I decided that it would be best to have a full stock of healing potions available. You seem to find trouble very easily." Severus sat on the edge of Theodore's bed, gesturing for the boy to take his glasses off.

"I don't find trouble. Trouble finds me. And Rosier only hates me because of what I supposedly did. I wasn't even old enough to remember, but everyone hates me because I killed some bad guy who needed killing anyway. Or they hate me because the stupid Sorting Hat put me in Slytherin instead of Gryffindor. What's so good about Gryffindor anyway? Dudley would have just had more opportunities to pick on me then." Severus raised his eyebrows at Harry's rant, but appreciated the opening into a conversation that was apparently needed.

"I cannot pretend to see any virtue in Gryffindor, Harry, but I can appreciate expecting you to be Sorted into that House. Both your parents were Gryffindors, and quite a few of James Potter's ancestors were in Gryffindor. Since Houses sometimes run in families, people naturally expected you would be a Gryffindor. Now hold still while I put this on your eye." Severus scooped some of the Balm onto his fingers and reached forward, waiting until Harry closed his eyes before gently rubbing it into the bruise. "Are you upset because Rosier was being cruel or is there another reason?"

Harry blinked, smearing the last of the Balm across his eyelashes. Noticing the weird feeling, he rubbed at his eye. "Ouch."

"Yes, that's what tends to happen when you rub at a bruise, you foolish boy." Severus closed the jar and leant back, observing Harry. "My question, Harry?"

"Mostly Rosier being a pr-err- a bully-" The sheepish look Severus received was enough to tell him that Harry had intended to use fouler language. "But it's not just that." Harry reached over to the book he was reading and pulled a letter out from the cover. Severus could see that it was written on Muggle paper and he knew that Lupin had made an effort to write on parchment as much as possible.

"May I?" He extended a hand for the letter, frowning in distaste when he read the return address. "When did you receive this, Harry?"

"When Dudley wrote them about staying for Christmas. About two weeks ago. They wanted to make sure I wasn't coming back these holidays. I think they mentioned that the summer was going to be bad enough." Harry didn't look up from where he was playing with his sleeve and Severus resolved to kill those Dursley's when it became convenient. He quickly pulled the letter from its envelope and scanned the contents. He sighed in despair at how well Petunia Dursley knew her nephew – just enough to hurt him, but not enough to really know him.

"It's not even that they don't want me there, because really, I've known that for a while. It's just..." Harry looked up quickly, obviously deciding whether to trust Severus. "It'd be nice to be wanted for once." Severus almost didn't hear the whispered words and yet almost wished he hadn't.

"Perhaps, Mr Potter, it is better to be allowed to go where you are wanted. I do believe that Miss Granger, Theodore, Mr Longbottom and Prefect Flint all offered you a place to stay over Christmas, did they not?" Severus held the letter up so Harry could see it. "The best place for this is the common room fire. You are wanted; if you must, blame the Headmaster for disallowing a Christmas away from Hogwarts."

"Yeah, I mean, yes, but it's not the same. I'm grateful to them, I am, but..." Harry trailed off and looked up helplessly.

"It's not your family." Severus didn't make any more comment, instead using a spell to send Harry's books back into his bag. "Do you play chess, Harry?" Harry nodded slowly, obviously unsure where the conversation was going. "Then would you like to spend the afternoon watching Professor Flitwick decorate the Great Hall and playing chess? If you win I may give you a pass on that essay." Harry looked between his book bag and his teacher, nodding after a moment.

"Okay. I'm not very good, though sir, so I doubt I'll be getting that pass." Severus stood, waiting for the boy to stand as well. He then tilted the boy's chin so he had to look at him.

Once he had Harry's full attention, he spoke. "Choose your own family, Harry. Find friends who accept you, such as Theodore, and don't allow you to hide your shame, such as Miss Granger. Find adults that care about you. They are the start of your new family; the Dursley's will never know what they missed." Harry's eyes brightened suspiciously and Severus let him drop his head.

While the boy composed himself, Severus summoned Harry's winter cloak to cover his jeans and t-shirt and dropped it around Harry's thin shoulders. Frowning at the state of Harry's winter wear, Severus led the way out of the Slytherin dorms and up to the Welcome Hall. At the entrance to the Great Hall, Dumbledore stood watching the teachers decorate.

"Uh oh." Harry's quiet comment drew a sigh to Severus' lips. He glanced back and saw that Harry had positioned himself almost completely behind him.

"Severus, Harry. What a lovely afternoon. Coming to watch the decorations go up? Professor Flitwick has really outdone himself this year. And Hagrid's trees look marvellous of course." Severus raised a sceptical eyebrow at Dumbledore and wasn't surprised to see him try to grin sheepishly.

"We're going to play some chess in the Great Hall. Harry was feeling lonely and my remaining Slytherins are feeling rather hostile towards him. Given that he couldn't spend the Christmas holidays with his friends, I thought it might cheer him up to watch the Christmas tree decoration." Severus did not feel the need to mention that this would be the first time since his parents had died that he would celebrate Christmas.

"Good, good. Enjoy your afternoon, my dear boys." Severus hoped that Dumbledore heard the angry noise Harry made, though he wondered if it was just because he'd had a bad day or if Harry was actually gaining confidence.

Severus spun around and walked into the Great Hall. He heard Harry follow quickly behind him as he led the way to the end of the Slytherin table closest to the staff table. Once there, he slid gracefully onto the end of the bench, gesturing for Harry to sit opposite him. He ignored the shocked look on Harry's face in favour of setting up the nearest available chess board.

He watched silently as Harry gazed around in amazement. Due to the low numbers of students, House-Elves had been directed to serve the students in their dorms if they didn't feel like coming to the Great Hall and eating with the teachers. Severus hadn't been surprised when Harry had avoided the last few dinners, instead quietly instructing Trixie to ensure that Harry ate what he should.

"Are they really..." Harry trailed off before finishing his question but Severus could tell by his gaze what he had spotted.

"Yes, they really are faeries. These are the nicer type. There are some that are quite mischievous but Hagrid knows what type to entice into the castle. Do you wish to be white or black, Harry?" Harry turned back slowly, obviously not really considering the question.

"White?" The uncertainty in Harry's voice made Severus' gut clench at the reminder that Harry was given very few choices.

"Very well. You may begin." Severus spun the board so that Harry's pieces were white and sat back to watch the boy consider his move. From the way his eyes kept darting towards the Christmas trees, Severus didn't think this would be a very challenging game.

Harry's POV

Two hours later, Harry had lost twice, but had still enjoyed the time more than anything else these holidays. Snape's despairing comments that he can't possibly be a Slytherin if his chess game was so awful only made him laugh as he realised the Professor was teasing. When Professor Flitwick came over to ask if he wanted to help on the trees, Harry had barely managed to ask the Professor permission he was in such a hurry to assist.

"That's right, my boy. Now, just drift it over the top of that branch and stop your spell." Professor Flitwick was coaching him through using Wingardum Leviosa to place Christmas decorations on the tree and Harry's cheeks were starting to hurt. He looked back over to the Slytherin bench to see that Snape had left sometime while he was distracted. Ignoring the disappointed feeling, he reached for the next ornament. He jumped in shock when it appeared in front of him.

"Have you ever helped decorate a tree before?" Snape's voice was quiet in his ear as he crouched behind Harry. Harry shook his head silently, staring hard at the decoration to avoid thinking of Christmas' he'd missed. "It's tradition in the Wizarding world to personalise an ornament before placing it on the tree you decorated. Not dissimilar to signing your name on a portrait. When the House-Elves take the trees down, they'll give you the ornament you personalised."

"I don't know how to do that sir." Harry looked over his shoulder at his teacher uncertainly.

"Then I can help you." Snape extended his wand towards the ornament Harry had been about to levitate. "Put your hand on my wand hand and picture what you'd like to be on it. I have to use a small amount of Legilimency to do this, if that is acceptable?" Harry nodded again and focused hard on his picture. He felt the magic tingle down Snape's arm where he grasped it and watched astonished as the round ornament became a cauldron emblazed with a snowy owl flying over Hogwarts. Snape slipped his wand back into his sleeve as Harry reached forward to pick it up.

"Hedwig, is it not?" Snape didn't seem surprised, merely curious.

"Yeah. Because she was the first pet I ever had. And Hogwarts because, well just because. And I think the cauldron's kind of obvious." Harry tried to contain his blush as he realised that while Snape would think he meant brewing potions, he'd used the cauldron to symbolise something else.

"Yes, Harry. Remember your proper speech. And they are all very good items to pick. Do you want to levitate it up now?" Snape picked up Harry's wand from where he'd placed it on a stool and held it out, handle first. Harry took his wand and carefully directed his ornament up to a branch near the top of the tree. "Very good, Mr Potter. And now, it is time for young Slytherins to be returning to their dorms in time for curfew." Harry smiled and nodded at the order in Snape's statement.

"Yes sir. Goodnight sir." Harry turned to walk back to his dorm but buckled inwards as a flare of pain seared through his abdomen. He couldn't stop a gasp from escaping him as he reached for the nearby Hufflepuff table for balance.

"Harry?" Snape turned back to him quickly, placing a comforting hand on his back. "What's wrong? What hurts?" Harry shook his head, willing the pain to recede. Feeling moisture on his lips, he brought his hand up to wipe at his mouth. He didn't need to hear Snape's growl to realise that the red on his hand was blood.

"Foolish boy. How long have you been in pain?" Snape's voice was rough with anger and Harry shrank away from him. "No doubt since Rosier decided to use you as a punching bag. Easy, Harry, we're going to go up to the infirmary. Have you ever Flooed before?" Harry shook his head 'no', desperately trying to stop pained tears from leaking down his cheeks. He gasped in surprise as he felt Snape's arms encircle his shoulders and his knees, once again lifting him into his Professor's arms.

He turned his head into his teacher's chest, ignoring the flare of green and spinning feeling in favour of crying silently. His stomach had not hurt this much before. He definitely didn't think he'd have been able to ignore this.

"Severus, what can I... Oh, you have Mr Potter for me again. What is it this time?" Harry didn't have the energy to protest the assumption.

"Looks like internal bleeding. He was in a violent altercation with Rosier earlier today. It's possible he was punched in the stomach." Harry ignored the adults talking above him as he was placed on a soft infirmary bed. As he rolled on his side with his legs up to his chest, Madame Pomfrey put a potion vial in front of his face.

"Here, Mr Potter, this is a pain reliever." Harry drank it without protest, grateful for Snape's help in sitting up slightly. "And this one; it's a Tissue Repair potion. It'll fix you right up, though you'll need to stay overnight." Harry whimpered in protest as Snape sat him up more for this potion.

"It's okay, Harry. The pain reliever will begin to take effect soon." Snape hushed him as he drank the required potion. "The last one is a Blood Replenisher. It will replace the blood you've lost." Harry quickly swallowed the potion and lay back down with a relieved sigh. Snape pulled the blankets out from under him and then helped him remove his winter cloak. A quick transfiguration later and Harry was in infirmary pyjamas, having the blankets draped over him by his Professor. He relaxed slightly as he felt the pain in his stomach begin to fade.

"Foolish boy. Internal injuries are a lot more dangerous than a black eye. If you were going to try to hide any injury, the black eye could have waited." Harry heard a chair scrape on the floor next to his bed and assumed that Snape had sat down.

"Didn't want to be a bother." Harry spoke softly, wincing as it hurt to talk.

"One day you will believe me when I say that you are not a bother, Harry. One day." Harry tried to reply but sleepiness overcame him. The last thing he heard was softly scolding him for letting his injuries get so bad.

Harry felt an unwelcome sense of déjà vu when he came awake to see the Headmaster sitting in the chair next to his bed. He bolted into a sitting position, hissing as the pain in his abdomen struck him.

"What are you doing here?" Harry growled angrily. A voice that sounded slightly like Snape growled in the back of his mind, reminding him that he should be speaking respectfully. He ignored it as Dumbledore reached forward, looking worried.

"Don't!" Harry turned around to face Dumbledore across the bed, taking no heed of the increasing pain from his movement.

"Harry, please, I just-", Dumbledore spoke quietly, obviously trying to calm Harry. He managed to place his hand on Harry's leg and Harry kicked out, scrambling backward.

"No! Don't touch me!" Harry felt the bed disappearing behind him but kept kicking out at Dumbledore, even after the man retreated because Harry landed a kick on his wrist. Suddenly he felt arms encircle his chest, pinning his arms to his side. He struggled as he was dragged backward until he heard Snape's voice in his ear.

"Enough!" Harry dropped his feet so that he was standing with his back held to Snape's chest. "Do you wish to undo everything Madame Pomfrey has done for you this evening?" Harry frowned and twisted slightly, uncomfortable with having his angry teacher behind him.

"My apologies, Severus, it appears that Harry was distressed at my presence." Dumbledore stepped forward and Harry growled, fighting against Snape.

"Even so, Headmaster, Harry is old enough to understand that he is meant to use his words, not actions to display his discomfit with a situation." Harry felt Snape tighten his arms around him in warning and growled.

"And if I don't listen, Severus? Didn't you tell me that you encouraged Harry to fight back against people who intruded his personal space against his will?" Dumbledore raised an eyebrow at Snape and Harry felt a flare of anger.

"I know what you're doing. I was wrong to kick out at you, Headmaster. Doesn't mean I won't do it again..." Harry muttered the last sentence under his breath and was unprepared for the sharp twinge of pain as Snape pinched his upper arm out of Dumbledore's sight.

"Since it seems that I am not welcome in this conversation, I believe I will take my leave. Do not be too harsh, Severus, as the boy has already admitted he was in the wrong." Dumbledore left and Snape's hold loosened.

"You pinched me!" Harry turned to his teacher indignantly.

"Would you prefer mouthwash? You must learn to hold your tongue, boy, before someone decides to truly punish you for it." Harry gulped as he remembered how Uncle Vernon would punish 'cheek'. "What are you thinking about? I didn't think it was possible for you to become more ashen. The best place for you, Mr Potter, would be back in bed. Are you in any pain?"

Harry shook his head as Snape nudged him back to bed. He tensed as he climbed, trying to avoid shifting in a way which would hurt his stomach. Once he was in, Snape put his hand on his chest, pushing him so he had to lie down. His teacher drew the blankets back up over him and tucked the top under his arms to keep it in place.

"If you are not in pain, then why are you cringing and tensing whenever you have to move?" Snape walked around the bed and sat in the chair Dumbledore had vacated, raising a sceptical eyebrow at Harry.

"Um, because I only just noticed it?" Harry didn't make eye contact with his teacher, instead turning slightly so that he was facing him.

"If that had not been a question, I may have believed that. After the holidays, you will see me for a detention, Harry, and a minute with my mouthwash, I believe." Harry groaned in disgust and Snape mistook it for pain. The quickly summoned vial of Pain Reliever was handed to him and he drank it before Snape settled in his chair and spoke.

"Now, what were you thinking of before?" Harry shook his head slightly, turning his head into his pillow.

"Don't want to talk about it." Harry heard Snape sigh and buried deeper into his pillow.

"Indeed. Then as it is three o'clock in the morning, I suggest you go back to sleep. It is way past the time of night that should be filled with drama and excitement." Harry heard Snape stand and frowned to himself as the uneasiness in his stomach increased. "Come, Mr Potter, surely even with a Pain Reliever twisting your stomach like that must hurt." Snape's hand on his shoulder pulled him back over onto his back, quickly resettling the blankets.

"Can I have a glass of water, Professor?" Harry latched onto the idea of asking for something to delay the time until he had to sleep.

"You may." Snape studied him as he handed Harry the glass from his bedside table. "You are aware, of course, that nothing the Headmaster could do here in this school would physically hurt you? Therefore you shouldn't be worried that he is in the same room as you." Harry raised a confused eyebrow before realising that Snape thought Harry was worried about Dumbledore.

"Oh, I know that, sir. I just wanted a glass of water." Harry placed the glass back, noticing his hand brush against his glasses as he did.

"Mr Potter, do you know what the most commonly used tactic by children who do not wish to go to bed is?" Snape had sat back down and Harry could tell by the raised eyebrow he was being sent that Snape had seen right through his attempt. Instead of answering, Harry looked at the glass then back at his teacher.

"Correct. Now, what is bothering you about going to sleep?" Harry studied his Professor, wondering if this was the right time to tell him that his nightmares had not stopped; he'd just stopped telling his Head of House about them. Snape's sigh of impatience decided him and he quickly thought of something else.

"I just can't settle my mind sir. Too much excitement I suppose." Harry shrugged, and then winced.

"Lie back then." Snape gestured until Harry did as asked then placed a hand on Harry's chest. "This is a basic Occlumency practice that is often taught to young children. Theodore would most likely know it well, given his propensity for empathy." When Harry wiggled slightly, not used to the weight on his chest, Snape pressed just a little harder. "The idea is that you focus on the feeling of my hand rising and falling with your breathing. As you've shown talent at being able to adjust your breathing to someone else's count, I will count for you. As I count to three, you breathe in. The second count of three, you hold the breath – only, however, if it is comfortable to do so. On the last count, you slowly let the breath out. Understand?"

Harry nodded and Snape began counting. At first Harry couldn't concentrate on his breathing because of the unusualness of the situation, however, as he became accustomed to the weight he managed to calm his breathing to Snape's count. For the second time that night, the last thing he heard as sleep overcame him was Snape's voice.

Snape's POV

Not a week later, Severus stood in the shadows in the Entrance Hall and watched Harry walk past with his head down as the youngest Weasley boy mocked him. From his vantage point, he could gather that Weasley was taunting Harry for not being allowed to leave. Harry had gathered his courage enough for one comeback, but Weasley subsequent guess that the reason Harry was invited elsewhere was because he was not wanted with his family had obviously cut. Unwilling to see the boy tormented on Christmas Eve, Severus made to step forward and interfere just as Minerva came storming up.

Severus was glad to see that she was back to her usual self, though the cause of her illness still worried him. The presence of foxglove in Minerva's blood had confused him, until he realised that in small doses the symptoms would occur gradually, rather than killing quickly. A word to the House-Elves had Minerva on a detox diet which was currently clearing the poison from her body and after his diagnosis both Poppy and Minerva had agreed to be more careful in future and especially to not accept food from anywhere but the Hogwarts kitchens.

He looked up from his thoughts as Weasley twin laughter sounded across the Hall. Minerva was busy dragging Ron Weasley away by the ear, loudly threatening to contact his mother about his 'disgusting lack of tact and basic human kindness'. Her continued rant seemed to contain references to being 'unGryffindor' and Severus decided that Minerva would probably be able to hand out ample punishment.

"Professor Snape..."

"...What a pleasure to see you..."

"...We've been meaning to thank you for looking after young Harrykins so well...."

"...After all, according to your little Snakes, you're a better Head of House than Professor McGonagall..."

"...But secretly, George and I don't believe that." Severus resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the Weasley twins' absurd way of talking.

"Messrs Weasley. Would you by any chance know why your brother has taken such a disliking to Mr Potter?" Severus knew that this wasn't the best time to ask, but Harry had breached the question himself in the last week.

"Because Ron's a jealous arse..."

"...Sorry Professor." Severus acknowledged the apology with a slight nod.

"But honestly, Harry..."

"...Pay our stupid little brother no heed..."

"...He's just unduly against Slytherins because most of you have money in your bank accounts..."

"...Mum reckons that what we don't have in gold, we definitely have in family..."

"...Since Mum's always been kind of smart, we reckon she's right." Harry's head had gone back and forth between the twins like he was watching a tennis match and Severus could tell that he really did value the twins' opinions.

"Say, Harry, since our idiot brother has gone and got himself a meeting with Professor McGonagall..."

"...Why don't you come play some Quidditch with us? Katie says you're good on a broom..."

"...And it's more fun with lots of players." Harry looked up at Severus for approval and he nodded his consent.

"Go, play your game. Just, try and stay out of the infirmary, Mr Potter, since you've already been there once this week." With that, the children took off outside, leaving Severus to venture out to a vantage point by the lake. From here, he could see the Quidditch pitch as well as the road leading up to the castle from Hogsmeade. As he knew that Dumbledore was expecting a visit from Minister Fudge, Severus planned on keeping Harry well away from anywhere he could be cornered by either Dumbledore or the current Minister. The Weasley twins' idea for a game had been well timed.

An hour later, the Minister had passed and the boys were returning with pink cheeks and steamy breath. Severus frowned when he saw that the smallest among the group at the Gryffindor table was shivering as he walked into the Great Hall. He quickly pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and transfigured it into a winter cloak. It was not very thick, nor was it fancy, but it would suffice until other suitable clothing became available to Harry.

"Here, Mr Potter. So that you do not freeze to death. In future, please try to ensure that your winter clothing is up to the task of combating the chill before you embark outside." While the gathered Gryffindors glared at his scornful tone of voice, Harry was looking at the cloak as if it contained a puzzle. Before Severus could question, however, Harry's eyes began to reflect happiness and gratitude.

"Thank you sir. This is loads better than my jumpers from the Dursley's. I suppose I should have gone and gotten my winter cloak before I went outside." Harry's sheepish look and quick darting look towards his hot chocolate mollified Severus to the point where he didn't reply scathingly.

"If you wish to remain at the Gryffindor table during the evening meal that will be acceptable Mr Potter, however, please do not forget our meeting this evening." Harry frowned and Severus paused before walking away.

"But it's the holidays."

"Yes, and I told all Slytherins that were remaining at Hogwarts that the usual schedule would apply." Severus didn't wait for an answer, instead moving quickly off towards the Head Table.

"Harry looks quite chilled Severus. Does he not have winter gear?" Minerva questioned as Severus sat down.

"He does, it just wouldn't keep a mouse warm let alone an active eleven year old boy. He didn't see fit to outfit himself when he bought new clothes in September, and has obviously forgotten that he can do so. That transfiguration will last until Christmas Day at least, and it will not be a hardship to see him receive some decent winter clothes. Has the Headmaster made any mention as to where Harry will be required to spend the remaining weeks of his holidays after the Dursley's?" Severus served himself his meal while answering Minerva, frowning when Trixie appeared next to him. "Yes?"

"Trixie is returning from buying Master's Christmas presents. Trixie notices that there is not one for Young Master Harry. Would Master be liking Trixie to buy one of her choosing?" The Elf spoke quickly, almost as if she was afraid of punishment.

"No, Trixie. Mr Potter and I shall be visiting Hogsmeade this evening to acquire his Christmas gift." The little Elf smiled and bowed before Disapparating.

"Really Severus, winter clothes are a necessity, yes, but surely you could buy them out of the school fund and find something more suitable to give the boy for Christmas? And no, Albus hasn't mentioned any other holiday plans to me. Probably because I told him that he was a fool for taking this course of action." Minerva kept one eye on the Gryffindor table while she spoke and Severus held back a frown at the thought that she was the busiest Head of House this Christmas even though she had been ill.

"I don't plan on giving Mr Potter clothes for Christmas, Minerva, though it would certainly be a sufficient gift." Severus paused to study Harry for a moment. "Since I don't believe he has been given many gifts, I wish for him to choose something he would like, rather than something he would enjoy simply because it is a gift."

"And how are you going to ensure that? He might just pick out the cheapest thing, knowing that you are buying it for him." Minerva pointed this out simply.

"I will tell him that it is a reward from the school for his grades. It would not be a lie. He has the best grades of all my Slytherins, and I have seen a few jealous glances from the Ravenclaw first years. He can be very intelligent when he applies himself." Severus set to eating as Dumbledore sat down on Minerva's other side. By mutual agreement, they refused to discuss Harry in front of the Headmaster, to respect Harry's privacy and to show that they didn't believe Dumbledore should be trusted with information regarding Harry.

Half an hour later, Severus was exiting the Great Hall when Harry fell into step beside him. "I know my meeting isn't until seven, sir, and it's only six thirty, but can we have it now, if there's no one in front of me?" Severus squashed any outward sign of surprise. This was the first time Harry had asked for anything more than a glass of water, and a huge step forward in his trust of Severus.

"Of course, Mr Potter. In fact, leaving earlier would suit our agenda better. Is there anything you would need to fetch from your dormitory before we take a trip outside the castle, Harry?" Harry's head tilted to the side, obviously curious.

"N-No sir." Harry was glancing up at Severus quickly, trying to gather some information about where they were going. Content to wait for Harry to ask, since he was always reluctant to ask questions, Severus simply nodded and strode towards the castle doors.

"It is about two miles to our destination. Should you find the walk too difficult, we could Apparate, however, I would like to avoid that." Severus kept his pace slow enough to allow Harry to walk comfortably next to him. Harry nodded quietly, regarding the Hogwarts lawn in the fading evening light. "Before it becomes too dark, I would like to teach you a spell used to create light."

Harry looked directly at him, interested now. "Take out your wand." Harry did so, holding it loosely at his side. Severus frowned as he realised that Harry was stashing his wand in his pants pocket. "You should procure a wrist wand holder. It is much easier to obtain your wand should you need it in a hurry and is much safer than storing it in your pocket." Disregarding the boy's wand safety, he retrieved his own wand. "Flick your wand like this and say 'Lumos'." Severus watched while the boy tried the spell. The light he produced was very weak but was a good attempt for his first casting.

"It's not very light." Harry looked at the end of his wand dubiously.

"Say 'Nox' to extinguish and try again." Harry managed to produce a brighter light the second time and his third try was bright enough to provide light as they walked through the Hogwarts gates. "Acceptable, Harry. As I am aware you are wary of dark environments, I'm sure this spell will prove useful to you."

"How do you know I'm scared, I mean, wary of the dark?" Severus smirked inwardly at the boy's Gryffindor show of bravado.

"You avoid wandering corridors without light, when you were in my office and the spells to keep the candles lit failed you froze like a deer in headlights, and I believe the boys in your dorm have acquiesced to maintaining candle light overnight. The signs are there if someone cared to look."

Harry stayed silent for some time until they were a way past the gates. "So where are we going, sir?"

"We are going to the Wizarding village called Hogsmeade. As a third year you will be granted permission to visit on designated weekends. However, if you have need of new clothes or other items that you cannot owl order, then you will be escorted by a teacher to Hogsmeade to purchase these items." Severus watched intently as Harry took this in and saw that Harry was carefully eyeing the surrounding Forest. He flicked his own wand, producing a strong Lumos to fully illuminate their path in the growing darkness.

As the light banished the shadows, Harry relaxed and inched away from where he'd been close to his teacher. Instead, he turned his eyes forward and quietly asked what they were buying.

"As I mentioned today and last Wednesday, the state of your winter wear is inadequate. Given that the weather is likely to worsen exponentially as we get deeper into the season, you require more sufficient clothing. You have also gained weight since the start of the year, though still not as much as we would like. It would be wise to purchase some larger items before you find you require them." Harry nodded silently, not protesting the advice. "You may also find this a good opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts for your friends."

At this Harry looked up in confusion. "I bought all my gifts by owl-order a few weeks ago, sir. Actually, there's only one I have left to get."

"Very well. I have need of the apothecary in Hogsmeade and you may make use of the bookstore if you wish. We shall of course need to return to the castle before curfew but I do not believe we will have to rush." Severus narrowed his eyes at the figure that had started approaching them. The aristocratic manner and the glimpse of blonde hair instantly told Severus that this was Lucius Malfoy. He stepped slightly closer to Harry, reaching out a hand to stop the boy walking forward. Let Malfoy come to them.

"Severus, just the man I was looking for. And this must be..." Malfoy's eyebrows rose in shock as he spotted the lightning bolt scar. "Harry Potter." Severus shook his head minutely when Malfoy looked at him questioningly.

"Mr Potter requires improved winter wear and I insisted that this be sized properly. Since Mr Potter has fortnightly meetings with me, as do all my Slytherins, I decided that this would be the best time." Severus wondered if Malfoy would realise that Severus was implying that he wasn't welcome on this excursion.

"Does Mr Potter not have family to return to over Christmas?" Thankful that the question was not directed at Harry, who would have answered honestly, Severus shook his head.

"Unfortunately, Headmaster Dumbledore believes that Harry would be best protected spending the majority of his year at the school. Though what he needs protection against, the Headmaster is yet to say." Now would be the time to plant small reminders that Malfoy was not the only supposedly loyal Death Eater here. If there was going to be any information about a rising Dark Lord now that the boy was in school, it would come through Lucius.

"Of course. Does the Headmaster not jump at shadows quite regularly?" The mocking smile on Lucius' lips worried Severus but not enough to confront him.

"If that is all Lucius, we really must be on our way." Severus indicated the path in front of them with a tilt of his chin.

"My business is with the Headmaster so of course, enjoy your shopping trip. Mr Potter, I'm sure I'll see you again." Harry nodded without speaking, his instincts obviously setting warning bells off in his head.

Severus was almost too slow to see Malfoy's cane swinging up to hook under the boy's chin. He didn't doubt that it had been quite a knock and was ready for Harry to lunge away from the snake fangs decorating the end. He caught Harry as he tripped, steadying him against his own body before turning slightly to put himself between Lucius and Harry. After a quick check to ensure that Harry's skin hadn't been pierced he turned a scowl on Lucius.

"Such a quiet child. I can see why you're so protective, Severus." Lucius' amusement worried Severus but instead of showing it he just tugged Harry so that they had reversed positions on the path; Lucius closest to the school.

"I think, Lucius, it would be best if we took our leave. Good day." A light shove got Harry walking down the path in front of him while his continued glare made Lucius bow mockingly and turn towards the school.

Two long strides had Severus back next to his charge as Harry stumbled. "Careful, Harry. Are you alright? How hard did he strike you?"

Through his worried queries Severus cursed his slowness. Never before had Lucius Malfoy managed to move faster than him.

"Not that hard. It just shocked me is all." Severus gently tilted Harry's head back so that he could examine the spot where Malfoy's cane had impacted. The boy's eyes were dilated with adrenaline and his breath was slightly faster than it should be. The mark under his chin consisted of two tiny pinpricks that were bright red and Severus would not be surprised if tomorrow morning there was a bruise.

"I think it would be best if we Apparated the rest of the way to the clothing store. To Side-Along Apparate you must be physically close to me." With that warning, Severus reached out to the boy, twisting him as he tugged him toward him. Harry stiffened but did not fight him.

Picturing his destination in his mind, Severus spun, all the while trying to make this trip as pleasant as possible for his passenger.

When they landed Harry collapsed forward, breathing deeply in an obvious attempt to stave off the nausea that accompanied Apparation for the inexperienced. Severus rubbed his back, gently lowering the boy onto his knees. He had chosen a secluded area to Apparate to in case of this very event.

"I don't think I like this Apparating stuff. It's sickening. Is it always like that?" Harry was slowly regaining his composure and Severus helped him to his feet. Once he was sure that the boy was steady on his feet he started off toward the centre of town.

Passing witches and wizards gave him curious glances at the site of the young boy behind him. No matter how much weight and height the boy had gained in the last few months, he still looked younger than his eleven years. Severus was sure that there would be rumours tomorrow about the mysterious child that he'd bought out into Hogsmeade. That was unless someone noticed the scar that Severus had placed a Notice- Me-Not spell over.

Harry could not seem to resist looking around him with interest and Severus slowed his pace so that the curious child could keep up. He paused outside of the bookshop before guiding Harry into the clothing store next door. He frowned at the garish Christmas robes in the display but was glad to see that the inside of the store was unchanged.

"And how can I help you fine gentlemen tonight? Surely those robes you bought last week were good enough Professor." Severus scowled at the shopkeeper, a bold former student of his. Though she had been a Ravenclaw rather than one of his Snakes, both Severus and Flitwick maintained that she spent more time with Slytherins than her own House. Because of that Bianca Sheerman had managed to gain good advice on starting her own clothing store for free. For that, Severus respected her intelligence.

"They were of respectable make, of course, Bianca, otherwise I never would have bought them. Harry is here to purchase some winter clothing because his current items are not sufficient. I will be covering the cost of course, so please charge it to my account."

Bianca spoke over Harry's protest, silencing them. " I didn't know you had a son Professor Snape. When were you planning on revealing that trinket of information?" Severus was too shocked to growl at her nosiness. Is that what the people around him were thinking? It was not truly implausible, after all, it was well known that he was a very private man. He quickly looked to Harry, realising how his silence must seem. What he saw shocked him even more. Harry had a distinctly pleased look on his face. Remembering all the occasions when Harry had indicated that he thought of Severus as a father figure, Severus realized that Harry didn't mind the mistake; in fact, he enjoyed it.

Severus shook off these thoughts for now, instead nodding vaguely in Bianca's direction then herding Harry over to the boy's clothing.

An hour and four near arguments later, Harry stood before him outside the book store in one of his new winter cloaks. On discovering that Harry had no gloves, Severus had quickly asked Bianca to put together a package of basics. He doubted that Harry had thought to buy more socks, underwear and accessories than he had already possessed. This had not pleased Harry, who had flushed bright red when asked by the witch what his choice of underwear was. The other arguments were mostly over Harry's reluctance to accept the fact that Severus was not going to let him spend his precious pocket money on necessities.

Finally, Severus had just sent him outside while he paid for the order. Due to the boy's modest choices in clothing, the outing had barely cost what he expected it to and he was now trying to decipher whether Harry's eagerness to go to the bookstore was for his final gift or personal interest.

Harry POV

"Please sir, I won't be long." Harry looked up at his teacher with hopeful eyes, already learning that Snape hated to deny him anything he had he bravery to actually ask for. Though it usually cost him, Harry definately wanted to ask for this. When Snape nodded slowly Harry gave him a broad grin. "Thank you sir. I won't dawdle, I promise."

"Harry, surely after seeing my quarters you realize that I am not adverse to spending time in a bookstore. Take your time. I will be in the Potions section should you require my assistance." With that Snape guided him into the store, pointing him towards the fiction books.

While Harry desperately wanted the chance to browse through all the stories a Wizarding bookstore could hold, he was on a mission. Since Snape had said that he was going to be in the Potions section, Harry couldn't find a suitable gift there, but he hoped that the Art section might hold promise. Snape had been quite pleased with his interest in Wizarding art and had replied to his questions in a manner that made Harry think Snape enjoyed art.

He was flipping through a book that compared Wizarding and Muggle art when he heard a 'Miaow' from somewhere near his feet. There lay a huge cat with a fluffy coat and when she realized that she had Harry's attention, she rolled over onto her back, asking for a pat. He was still patting her a few moments later when the shop owner came over.

"I see you've met Millie. Bloody nuisance thing, begging attention off of customers. Course she's beautiful, so she deserves some attention."

Harry tilted his head in confusion as the large man that reminded him of Uncle Vernon bent down to pat the cat. She purred and butted against Harry's fingers as the man scratched her back. "Would you like to see her kittens, son? Wouldn't have expected anything less than beauties from this little lady though she sure knows how to surprise me. Not only did she give birth to seven kittens but they seem to be part Siamese.

"It's an odd mix but it works well. They're just ready to go to their new homes now." Harry nodded silently and followed the man. As they walked through a door behind the main counter Harry found his feet attacked by a large group of fur balls. There was no other way to describe the furry leggy beings that were now chewing on his shoelaces.

"They're beautiful. How old are they?" Harry bent down for a closer look, scratching the heads of the nearest ones.

"Ten weeks. Bit old for kittens; they're usually given away by now. I just couldn't part with them so soon and Millie still mothers them so I reckon it won't do them any harm. Your Professor helped me make up some formula for the runt. Helped keep the mite alive in the end. In fact, I think he's right fond of them." Harry tried to stop the thought forming but he couldn't. What if he got one of the kittens for Snape?

"How much are you selling them for sir?" Harry noticed that the man had noticed his scar the same moment he looked up. Quickly the man seemed to recover and decide not to mention it.

"Two Galleons and four Knuts. That'll cover the neutering they'll get before they go and the vaccination they've already had. Which one would you like?" Harry quickly pointed at the runt.

"That's the one Professor Snape helped isn't it?"

"Yep. And unless you're planning on giving her to him, she's not for sale."

"How'd you know?" Harry smiled at the laughter in the shopkeeper's eyes.

"Years of experience kid. So that'll be two Galleons and four Knuts and I'll deliver her up to Hogwarts House Elves just in time for her to be washed and placed under old Snape's tree." Harry pulled the money for the man out from his coin bag and handed it over.

"Harry? Where have you disappeared to now?" Harry stood quickly, carefully extracting himself from the kittens.

"Here sir." Snape appeared at the doorway of the little room and Harry could tell that he was amused.

"I see that you've met Mr Job's Maine Coon. They are an American breed of cat bred for size and temperament. I wasn't surprised that Mr Job insisted in bringing her mother with him when he migrated. Of course, I'm sure he didn't expect Millie to have cross breed kittens." Snape's smirk told Harry that Snape had obviously quite enjoyed whatever display Mr Job had put on.

"Yeah well, I expected that bloody charm to keep her from getting pregnant. Her having the kittens was a surprise, let alone them being Siamese." Mr Job scowled at Snape but Harry didn't think he was really upset.

"Indeed. Are you ready to go, Harry? The walk back to the school will seem longer on the way back since you most likely beginning to feel tired after your long day. I will most likely see you before the New Year, Mark. Have a merry Christmas." Snape waited patiently while Harry said goodbye to the man then put a hand on his shoulder to guide him out of the store and onto the street. "Unless I feel that it would benefit us, I do not wish to Apparate."

Harry nodded his consent then walked quietly beside his teacher until they reached the outskirts of town. "Sir, what was Mr Malfoy doing at the school?"

"Lucius Malfoy was indulging his power trip. He was recently awarded a position on the school board because of Draco's attendance and wishes to use that power to influence the running of the school to support his political beliefs. Given that his beliefs and the Headmaster's are very different, both of them spend quite a long time playing word games over a cup of tea." Harry could tell from Snape's voice that he was unimpressed with this.

"Do you support Mr Malfoy or the Headmaster, if you don't mind me asking sir?" Harry noticed a shadow go across Snape's eyes and wondered if he'd really like the answer.

"A long time ago, I was an angry young man, Harry." Snape stopped walking and quietly drew Harry off the road to a convenient log. Harry hopped up easily while Snape sat more slowly. "At that time, I allowed Mr Malfoy to twist my thinking, enchant me with the idea of a world where I could be one of the people with power. I came from a poor family and as you discovered, children at Hogwarts, and especially in Slytherin, are not always kind. Power appealed to me. Because of that, I made the worst mistake of my life and decided to discover Lucius' reasons through living them. By the time I realized that what I was doing went against every moral code, I was so deeply entrenched that I couldn't turn back. I went to the Headmaster, deeply remorseful for everything I'd done. He welcomed me back like a lost son and from then on I owed him everything. When the crimes I'd committed while following the other doctrine came to public attention, his belief in me kept me from Azkaban. These days I choose to believe that neither is right and that people should have the right to choose what they believe based on personal codes." Snape passed and Harry tried to piece it all together in his mind. He recoiled in horror as he realized what Snape was telling him.

"You're a Death Eater! I mean Flint and Teddy thought you were but they didn't have any proof! How could you..." Harry broke off as quickly as he'd spoken, begging his teacher with his eyes to deny it, call him an idiot, anything. Instead Snape just met his eyes steadily.

"But you were friends with my mum and she was a Muggleborn. Teddy told me that Death Eaters hated Muggleborns and Muggles. Is that why...?"

"Your mother discovered what I'd done and her disgust at me planted the seeds of doubt I needed. What did turn me from the Death Eaters is something I can't tell you until you are older but I promise you that I will tell you in time. However, you must of course remember that this can go no further than between us. To have this information revealed to either Malfoy for instance would be almost certainly fatal to me. Swear to me, Harry that you will tell no one what you know."

Harry nodded quickly. "Of course, I won't tell anyone. But why are you telling me if it would be so bad for you?"

Snape considered him for a moment, possibly judging his sincerity.

"Because it is one of those things you should know before you make an emotional investment in a relationship." Harry crinkled his brow in sceptical confusion. "Before you become so attached that having your Head of House be mistaken for your long dead father doesn't offend you, for instance." Harry clamped down his embarrassed reaction to that statement, remembering the lady from the clothes store.

"She didn't really mistake you for my Dad. Just that we were related."

Snape's raised eyebrow showed his scepticism. Harry instantly regretted trying to defend the lady's mistake as it appeared that Snape had not liked being mistaken for being Harry's Dad. He opened his mouth to apologize for assuming but Snape beat him to it.

"Due to our similarities, it does not surprise me that people would assume a young boy spending time with me over the holidays is related to me. Nor does it offend me." Here Snape paused and Harry held his breath as it appeared that his teacher was going to continue.

"As I have mentioned before, it would be no hardship for me to house you over the holidays. What I did not mention was that would require me adopting you because the wards around my house will only give full privileges to family members. Though no longer widely used, blood adoption is sometimes used in older families to ensure that the heir will rightfully inherit." Harry watched curiously as Snape broke off with ever so slightly widened eyes.

"Of course... Why didn't I think of this before?" Snape was muttering and Harry was happy to sit back and watch. "Harry, I need to research something back at the school. I may have found the answer to our Dursley problem." Harry had never seen Snape's eyes quite so fierce and he assumed that whatever Snape had thought of had to do with blood adoption.

"Okay. Are we still going to walk back?" Snape nodded and stood but he quickly bent down to Harry's level.

"Harry, I believe that we may be able to transfer the blood protection. I just need to consult a few people on how this spell would work." Harry didn't allow himself to think about the possibilities. If they could transfer the blood magic, would that mean he wouldn't have to go back to the Dursley's?

Five days later Harry woke to a pile of wrapped parcels at the bottom of his bed. He cocked his head to the side in curiosity. Were the presents for him? He quietly called out for Trixie and edged toward his headboard.

"Young Master Harry is calling Trixie. It is being Christmas morning. Young Master Harry should be opening his presents before breakfast." At this Trixie had indicted the pile at the end of the bed.

"Are they mine? Because I don't usually get presents on Christmas." Trixie's ears went back, giving her a confused look.

"Young Master Harry does not receive gifts. Young Master's family are very bad people. Those are Young Master's gifts. After he opens them, Young Master should go up to Gryffindor Tower and be with other Young Masters Fred and George. They will be celebrating Christmas properly and telling Young Master how Christmases are meant to be spent." With that, Trixie left. Harry assumed she had gone back to the kitchens to help make breakfast. He turned slowly to the pile of presents, itching to open them but unable to get past years of conditioning. The Dursley's had taught him not to touch presents and he had learnt the hard way that they were not joking.

He turned slowly towards the door when he heard a loud 'miaow'. The runt of Millie's litter was cradled in Snape's arms as he walked into the boy's dorm. Once in, he shut the door with his heel and dropped the already large cat to the ground.

"Merry Christmas, Harry. Thank you for the gift, it was a good thought. Luckily, she won't grow to be quite as big as her brothers and sisters. Have you just awoken?" Snape came to sit on Teddy's bed, gesturing towards the gifts. "They won't open themselves, you realise."

Harry sat down opposite Snape and looked sideways at where the new kitten had started to play with the ribbons adorning what must have been the present from Hermione. "I wasn't allowed to touch the Christmas presents at the Dursley's. It's one of the lessons that left scars." Harry held out his hand to show Snape the burn scars that remained.

"Oh Harry." Snape had stopped sounding angry at the information Harry gave him about living with the Dursley's and had instead just maintained a sympathetic attitude. "I assure you that you are definitely allowed to touch these gifts. In fact, I know one fifth year witch who will be quite angry at you for not opening her gift and who really wants an angry Rachael around them?" Harry gave a slight smile at the implied joke and Snape took that as a cue to reach over and grab the top gift.

Harry could see that it was fabric in nature and the plain brown paper covering it gave no indication as to who had sent the gift.

After tilting his head to read the label, Snape placed it in his lap, making sure he had grabbed it reflexively before letting go. "That gift is from Molly Weasley; the twins' mother. I believe that she is in the habit of mothering everyone around her and I'm not surprised she sent you a gift. The twins must have told her that you were not having a good time at your home. Open it, Harry." Harry slipped a finger cautiously through the gap where the paper overlapped. When no reprimand came, either imaginary or real, he tugged upwards, splitting the tape. Through the gap he could indeed see something that appeared to be a Slytherin green jumper. Removing the rest of the paper revealed that Mrs Weasley had knitted a large silver 'H' in the centre of it as well. Wrapped in the middle of it was a tin that contained homemade fudge as well as a letter. He set the jumper and the fudge aside to read the letter.

In it Mrs Weasley introduced herself and explained that the twins had written about how Ron and him were fighting. She noted that she had written to Ron in hope of improving his manners but that apparently hadn't helped. Harry could almost hear the exasperated tone of voice the letter seemed to be written in. The last paragraph of the letter was an invitation to their home in the summer and a promise of aid if he needed it. He silently handed the letter to Snape and turned his attention to the large book-shaped parcel with Hermione's name on it.

Smiling at the obvious choice, Harry quickly unwrapped this one. His grin only got wider as he realised that Hermione had given him a book on Defence Against the Dark Arts. Her Christmas card simply wished him a Merry Christmas and she mentioned that she wanted to borrow the book once he was finished with it.

"Miss Granger has good judgement in books, it appears." Snape nodded in approval at the cover of Harry's new book. Harry's attention was drawn by the new kitten leaping up to the middle of his presents and running a swift circle, ignoring the paper ripping under her paws.

"Hey! Careful kitty." Harry quickly scooped the kitten up as she began a chorus of miaowing.

"Both Siamese and Maine Coon cats are known because they are quite vocal. I doubt my quarters will ever be quiet again." Snape held out his arms and Harry passed the cat over. Worried that Snape was annoyed he looked up carefully to see that Snape was studying him. "That is not necessarily a bad thing, Harry. I have lived too many years in quiet quarters. The noise will be appreciated; most of the time." With Snape scratching behind her ears the kitten had quieted to a low rumbling purr.

"My gift to you was the winter wear we purchased on Friday; however I believe that this news should add to that quite nicely. I have done some research and my sources have confirmed that if you were to be adopted through a blood adoption, magical protections tied to your new parent could substitute for the protection your mother gave you. Once I am able to convince the Headmaster of this, the process should be relatively simple. That is if you are amenable." Harry's nose scrunched at the different word but he guessed that Snape was asking if he wanted to be adopted.

"You honestly think I'd want to go back to the Dursley's? Of course I'd love to be adopted. But, sir, who...?" At Snape's raised eyebrow Harry blushed and looked down. "You don't have to sir, I mean, I'm sure someone else-"

"Harry, stop doubting everything I say. I would not offer if I was not willing to prove my intent. Convincing the Headmaster of the merit of this choice may take time and I know that the actual process can take over a year, so I cannot say that you will not return to the Dursley's this year. However, it does give hope for the future." Harry let his mind race to the possibilities; Snape would be his Dad and he wouldn't have to go back to the Dursley's. He gave Snape a bright smile to show his opinion and turned back to his gifts when Snape gave him a searching look. A charm sounded through the dorms and Harry jerked his head upward. Snape had cursed under his breath at the interruption and Harry watched as he stood slowly.

"Apparently, your fellow Housemates have chosen today to test my patience. Since that charm indicates that someone has chosen to use a Dark curse, I believe I am needed elsewhere." Snape looked down at Harry, and he almost thought that Snape seemed reluctant to go. "Do finish opening your presents, Harry. And seek out the Weasley twins. I doubt they'd let you pass this Christmas quietly."

Harry's unwrapped gifts were waiting for him on his bed when he returned from spending the day with the Weasleys. The mysterious Invisibility Cloak had been the only thing Harry had put away, locking it safely in his trunk. He had found a quiet moment to tell Snape of it and wasn't surprised when Snape suggested that maybe Dumbledore had had it. The rest of the day had been spent having snow fights with the Weasleys and begging Trixie for hot chocolate to warm up. All in all, Harry was quite content with how his first Christmas had turned out.

When he sat down on his bed to take his wet shoes off, he was surprised to hear paper crinkling. The only thing that had changed since he had been in there was that all the rubbish had disappeared.

He turned to the envelope that was just under his pillow and picked it up. The short spiky writing was obviously Snape's and Harry assumed that it was a letter about the adoption. Instead, when he split the envelope open he was surprised to see pictures fall out. He recognised the girl in them as his mother and intently studied the people with her. In one it was another young Snape and Harry smiled at the thought that Snape had ever been that young. The other photos contained other boys as well as girls, most wearing what Harry recognised as Gryffindor colours. He flipped the photos, hoping for names. Instead of names there was a note from Snape.

Harry.

Since you do not have photos of your parents, I have decided to give you some of mine. I would suggest buying yourself a photo album or frames to keep them in. Due the unpredictable nature of Wizarding photos, I chose to reproduce these as Muggle photographs. They are easier to keep safe and allow you to look at them in the Muggle world.

If you wish to know the stories behind the photos, please see Professor McGonagall. Unfortunately, some of those memories are painful to this day; Professor McGonagall would be able to do them the justice they deserve.

Merry Christmas once again,

Severus Snape

Harry smiled then looked over at his trunk. Sure, Filch was hanging around. But now he had the Invisibility Cloak...

Harry quickly drew it out and threw it around his shoulders. The material felt like it was barely there and he still couldn't quite comprehend disappearing in front of his own eyes. Still, if it let him get past Filch and to Snape's office without getting caught, then he'd probably get used to it. With that thought in mind, Harry hurried out of the dorm, intent on thanking his teacher – even if it was an hour past curfew.

Right, well, as always, thoughts, comments, constructive criticisms...

As a self-appointed ambassador for checkout chicks worldwide, I hope the festive season made you a bright and cheerful customer. If it didn't, try to remember that we're probably having a bad day too... Oh right, get off my soapbox. *Dusts self off* I'm just mentioning... :)