Permission

"I need some advice." Harry said suddenly.

Snape peered up from his evening tea, his thick eyebrows furrowed. "About what?"

Harry turned red, staring at his own tea intensely. "Never mind."

"Harry." Snape said pointedly.

Harry looked back at him, his face still flushed. "I…er, uh, I've been thinking…it's been so long – "

"Potter!" Snape barked. "Dark wizards are killing people out there, people we should be helping, and you're sitting here unable to speak a simple thought. Spit it out."

Harry cleared his throat. "I'm thinking about proposing to Ginny."

Snape allowed himself a small smile, not surprised in the least. He felt unprecedented pride blossom in his chest.

"Do you – do you think it's a good idea?" Harry asked, looking self-conscious.

"Harry." Snape said, rolling his eyes. "Do I think it's a good idea for you to marry someone who you have loved since you were sixteen, who has loved you back for even longer, and maintained that love even when you left her to risk your life killing Voldemort?" He smirked. "Yes, I think that is a good idea."

Harry suddenly beamed. "I – good. Thanks. I just – wanted to double check with you, you being my, uh…dad and all. I thought it was a good idea."

Snape's eyes softened. He nodded.

"I just – uh…" Harry continued, still looking a bit ill at ease. "You think…you think she'll say yes, right?"

Snape rolled his eyes dramatically. "For Merlin's sake, Potter." He said sternly. "At times you're unbearably arrogant, and the next, you're unbearably unconfident." He widened his eyes. "She will say yes."

Harry smiled again, and nodded as though reassured. "Thanks."

Snape nodded. Harry got up, put on his traveling cloak, and gave Snape's shoulder a squeeze, suddenly energized. "I'm going to go do it now. Before I lose my nerve. I'll see you later!" And with a crack, he was gone.

Snape glanced at his unfinished tea, a smile on his lips. He hoped that idiotic boy had thought to buy a ring.