Longest chapter to date :) And once again, thank you to ethulinda for playing with my muse and making this chapter possible. Enjoy!
It was well into the morning before Harry woke, groaning softly as he pulled his covers tightly around his shoulders. The sun was glistening through his window and he turned away from it quickly.
His throat was burning, making it difficult for him to swallow. The teen whined softly, pulling his covers up to cover his face as Bane moved from his spot at the foot of the bed to lie next to Harry's head. He didn't want to wake up. He didn't want to be sick!
Snape had been feeling so much better since he was sick two days prior. The two of them had talked about how much Harry wanted some time out of the house and Snape had promised to take him to Diagon Alley tomorrow. He couldn't be sick now!
Harry shivered as he pulled his quilt up tighter around him. He was so cold. He whined softly into his pillow.
A moment later he heard a knock at his door, followed by his guardian walking into his room.
"You don't feel well." It was a statement, not a question.
Harry opened his eyes partly at the words, groaning softly as shook his head. "I feel so cold," he whispered, not trusting to speak in his normal tone.
Snape moved across the room placing a hand on Harry's forehead. "You are burning up." He silently summoned a second quilt from the wardrobe, throwing it over the teenager. "I'll be right back," he promised as he quickly moved out of the room.
Harry nestled down further in his bed as the second quilt was thrown over him.
Snape returned a moment later holding a small tray that contained several vials as well as a thermometer.
Snape placed the tray on the bedside table as he picked up the thermometer from it, sitting on the edge of Harry's bed. "Mouth open," he urged gently.
Harry closed his eyes once more, opening his mouth to allow the thermometer to be placed under his tongue. He shut his mouth, a soft whine escaping his throat.
Snape waited a few moments before tapping Harry's chin gently and pulling the thermometer out of his mouth. He read it carefully, sighing softly to himself.
"Okay, let's get some potions into you," he said gently as he picked up the first large vial.
"Snaaape," he whined at the words, holding onto his pillow. "Nooooo." Harry buried his face down, his voice was still soft despite the whining tone.
He absolutely hated taking potions. Flavored or not. The texture of some could be horrendous. Harry opened his eyes, though from his position he could only stare at Snape through one.
Snape frowned as he tapped the boy's leg a bit firmly though with two quilts over him he was sure Harry wouldn't feel it. "It's not an option Harry James. We have to get you better. Now sit up and take this please."
With a whine, Harry pushed himself up. His throat was killing him and the thought of taking more than one potion made him simply feel worse.
He took the large vial, looking down at the liquid like he often did. He did, of course, want to feel better. He just hated the process to do so. With a pathetic look once more, he downed the potion in a few swallows.
Snape gave a nod of approval as he took the empty vial from Harry's hand and placed it on the tray before picking up a second vial just as large as the first.
"For your throat," Snape explained. "If you had what I did I am sure it isn't feeling very pleasant right now."
This time Harry took the potion with no complaint, actually thankful for the contents of it. He hummed softly as he handed the now empty vial back to his guardian.
Snape raised an eyebrow slightly, appreciative for the cooperation. He placed the empty vial down and picked up a third. "One for the headache I am sure that you have."
"How many more?" A hint of a whine starting to take over his tone. He leaned his head back against the headboard, staring at Snape without grabbing the potion.
"This one and then just one more," Snape promised hoping his words wouldn't cause a full out whine. "You're almost done Harry."
Tears welled within the teen's eyes, threatening to fall. It was a silly matter to cry over, but he just felt so bad. Harry took the potion, looking down at the top. "What's the next one for?"
Snape sighed softly as he saw the tears. "This last one is for your fever. It's way too high to not take something for it."
Harry stared down to the potion once more, sighing heavily as a tear escaped and ran down his cheek. "I hate potions," he whispered, swirling the liquid once before he drank it as well.
Snape gave the boy a soft encouraging grin as he took the empty vial from his hand and handed him the last full one. "Just this last one. You are doing very good."
Harry's dejected look hardly left as he took the last one. He stared at it for several moments, releasing a breath. "I don't want toooo," he whined softly, looking back up to Snape.
"I know," Snape replied forcing his tone to go a bit stern. "But it is not an option. You must take it."
"It is an option, you're just making me," He muttered, still staring down at the vial. He knew it was the last one - but that didn't mean he wanted to take it. He gave a soft cough before it turned into a hard one, turning his head away.
"Harry James..." he paused for a moment giving the boy a pointed look despite the fact that his head was turned. "You are absolutely right, I am going to make you and the longer you wait to do so the worse it will be. You know that."
Harry bowed his head at the tone, swallowing heavily after his small coughing fit. He hated it but he caved soon after and swallowed the last potion, holding the empty vial to Snape.
Snape took the empty vial, letting his land linger for a moment on Harry's, his thumb gently brushing over the teenagers. "Thank you. Now lie back down."
Harry did so, raising his hand to rub his eyes of any tears before they fell. He looked up to Snape, his face still slightly flushed from his fever.
Snape placed a gentle hand on the boy's forehead. "What is bothering you?"
Harry leaned into the touch, shrugging softly. "I hate being sick.." he muttered softly. "I just ache."
"You ache," Snape echoed the words with a nod. "Is anything else specifically hurting you?"
"My stomach... I thought the potions were just bothering it though," He whispered softly, his eyes closing as he spoke.
"They shouldn't be," he said softly. Once more his hand reached out and gently rested on Harry's forehead. He was pleased to find that the boy felt at least a little cooler.
As Snape's hand moved, Harry rolled onto his stomach, tucking his hands under his pillow as he did so. "Don't make me take another potion," He whined softly, resting his cheek on his pillow as he stared at Snape.
Snape sighed softly as his hand reached out and gently rubbed Harry's back. "I won't...at least not for a few hours."
Harry relaxed, a shiver running through him as he nestled further into the covers. Had Snape felt this bad? Maybe he was just better at hiding it. "Are you going to Hogwarts?"
"I do not plan on leaving you when you are this sick. I will owl Albus and inform him that I will be home today as well." His hand continued to rub the boy's back. "Are you tired? Do you want to sleep some more?"
Harry shook his head slightly. "No... well maybe," He admitted after a moment. He was tired, he just didn't want to sleep more. "Can I come lay on the couch?"
Snape considered the request for a moment before nodding. "You may. Hand me your pillow, I'll carry it down."
Harry pushed himself up onto his knees, handing the pillow over to his guardian. "Thanks," He smiled softly, standing up from his bed.
Snape tucked the pillow under his arm before picking up the tray. "I won't give you any more potions just yet but I do want to take your temperature once more when you get settled on the couch. I want to be sure it has gone down some." He walked towards Harry's bedroom door. "Bring your quilt as well."
Harry didn't reply to that, simply picking up his blanket and wrapping it around his shoulders. He followed a few steps behind the man.
"You are going to eat a little something as well." Snape started down the staircase.
"But my stomach!" He couldn't help the small pout that crossed his lips. He knew he didn't eat last night- but he still didn't feel good!
"Something light," the words were repeated as he stepped onto the main floor and walked into the parlor. "You hardly ate yesterday. You need something in you."
Snape felt a pang of guilt as the words exited his mouth. The previous evening Harry had barely touched his dinner. He should have known then that something was wrong with his son.
"Clearly this is a subject you're not going to let go." He threw the man's words from earlier in the week right back at him. A slightly cheeky tone rising from him, despite his sickness.
Snape's eyebrow rose at the cheek. He set the tray on the coffee table before placing Harry's pillow at the end of the couch. "If you would not like to be scolded while you aren't feeling well I would suggest that you stop with the cheek Harry James."
Harry smiled just softly, leaning his head back as he watched his guardian. "Sorry," he muttered softly, pulling his covers tighter around his shoulders.
He wanted to lay down, but there was no point. He was going to have to eat soon anyway and Snape had said he wanted to check his temperature again.
Snape picked up the thermometer and stood in front of Harry, leaning over before he gently tapped his chin. "Open."
Harry sighed before he obediently did so, letting it be placed under his tongue before closing his mouth just as he did before.
Snape waited several moments before carefully removing the thermometer and reading it before setting it back on the tray. "Soup? Oatmeal? Toast?"
"Oatmeal." He nodded at his own thought. His throat still ached slightly, so he felt it would feel nice against it.
Snape nodded as he gently tapped the coffee table causing a bowl of oatmeal to appear. He picked it up and handed it to Harry before sitting down next to him. "Mind that you do not spill any of that on the couch."
Harry leaned against Snape, holding the bowl within his lap before he took a small bite. He really wasn't that hungry, but he knew he had to eat at least half to make his guardian happy.
"Eat as much of that as you can and I won't pester you about eating more until lunch," Snape promised.
He stirred the oatmeal a little before taking another bite. "Okay." Harry raised a hand, rubbing at his forehead. "Did the potions really help you when you were sick?" Harry felt that he still had a headache - it just wasn't as strong.
"Some," Snape answered honestly. "They helped my throat as well as my body aches immensely. My other symptoms seemed to only be lessened by them."
Harry nodded slightly, pressing the side of his forehead against Snape's shoulder. "My head hurts still."
"Rest will likely help it. After a bit of rest you can take something else for it too." He braced himself for the inevitable whine he was sure he was about to be subjected to.
"Snaaaape no!" Harry placed the bowl on the table, laying down and drawing his knees up since Snape was sat next to him. He turned to face the back of the couch while shaking his head.
Snape sighed softly at the antics as he gently tapped the teenager's backside. "You absolutely need your rest. You cannot be expected to get well otherwise."
Harry nestled his head into the back of the couch with a soft whine. "I don't want any more potions."
"That will depend entirely on how you feel in a few hours." Snape glanced down at the oatmeal. "You hardly ate any of your oatmeal. That will not help."
Harry didn't reply as he curled further into himself, a soft cough shaking his shoulders as he buried himself away.
"Harry James," Snape gave his backside another light tap. "I'm not going to talk to your back."
Harry forced himself up, legs drawn to his chest as he rested his head against the back of the couch. "Sorry," he whispered gently, his gaze lowering.
"You need to eat more," Snape's voice was much more gentle now.
"I'll eat a little more," Harry offered. He felt hungry but didn't feel like eating which was a terrible feeling. He leaned over and grabbed the bowl, rubbing his head as he placed it within his lap.
Snape watched the actions carefully. "Is your scar bothering you as well?" He was already nearly on his feet to get a potion for it as well as a cool washcloth.
Harry shook his head. "No, not really. It was just a little itchy."
Snape nodded at the words as he relaxed once more.
Harry ate a few more bites before he set the bowl down and shifted himself so his back was against Snape's side. He yawned into his arm, rubbing his eyes right after. "I hate being sick," Harry muttered, pulling his quilt around himself.
Snape leaned back on the couch, allowing Harry to get more comfortable. He silently prayed that the boy would feel better by the evening - he hardly wanted to deal with the tantrum he was sure would happen if their trip to Diagon Alley had to be postponed. "I know you do. One would think that you would take the potions without argument then, they will help you know."
Harry stretched his legs out before moving slightly to lay his head on his guardian's chest. "I haven't argued," he muttered tiredly, his eyes closing. "I just hate taking them."
Snape raised an eyebrow, "Stalled then? You know that the longer you build up the anticipation the worse that it is for you."
"I've already had more potions than you did when you were sick!" It was hardly an argument, but it wasn't fair either.
"You also appear to be sicker than I was." Snape was sure that whatever Harry had caught was far worse than the cold he had endured. Harry had been burning up. "You know I wouldn't make you take them if I did not feel as though you needed them."
Harry didn't reply, his breathing starting to even out as he buried his head into the man's cloak. His body just ached. He felt as if he had just played a Quidditch match that had gone into overtime.
Snape's right hand reached out and gently rubbed the boy's arm. "I should get some work done and you should try and sleep."
"No." The soft reply came out of the teenager's mouth. He knew full well that he was going to have to move when he didn't want to.
"A few more minutes then," Snape decided as he leaned back letting his own eyes close. His fingers continued to brush against Harry's arm gently.
Harry hummed softly as he nestled himself down, the gentle touch simply luring him further to sleep before his breathing evened out completely.
Snape sighed softly realizing the child was asleep and he was stuck under him. Clearly his work would have to wait, but then a little rest might not do him any harm either. He allowed his body to relax willing sleep to take over.
Several hours passed before a coughing fit took over Harry's body causing Snape to wake with a small jump. His hand instantly going to Harry's back as the boy sat up coughing. He glanced up at the clock dreading what the next few moments were to bring. "Are you alright?" He asked gently tapping the boy's back.
Harry nodded slowly at the words, raising his knees to rest his forehead against them. "It hurts to cough." His voice was strained.
Snape rubbed Harry's back for a moment clearing his throat. "I need to check your temperature again and you are due for more medicine."
"Nooo," Harry's voice was soft, wrapping his arms tight around his knees. "No more potions," he shook his head instantly regretting the action. The headache he had was only worsened by it.
"What did we talk about? Hmm? It's not an option Harry." His voice was gentle but he made sure it held an underlying sternness.
Harry gave a soft whine at the tone, knowing full well there was no persuading the man. He hated this. He felt worse than earlier! This was going to ruin their plans for tomorrow.
Tears started to well in the teen's eyes at the thought, raising a hand to rub them away.
Snape slowly stood. "Taking a few potions is hardly anything to cry over." He knew that Harry tended to act a little immature when he wasn't feeling well but he was not about to put up with tears over taking medications. "You know that I will flavor them for you."
"I'm not crying!" Harry rubbed at his eyes once more, sniffing softly.
"I am just imagining it then?"
Harry shook his head gently as he brushed a stray tear off of his cheek. "This is going to ruin tomorrow," he complained.
Snape frowned softly at the clarification. "Diagon Alley is not going anywhere. We can go on Sunday or next weekend if you are still ill then." He picked up the tray walking out of the room and towards his laboratory.
Harry shrugged at the words, shifting to sit properly on the couch. He watched as Snape walked out, tilting his head back against the back cushion.
A moment later Snape walked back into the parlor carrying a restocked tray. He set it down on the coffee table picking up the thermometer from it. "Open," he instructed as he brought it down to Harry's mouth.
Just as before, Harry opened his mouth to allow it to be placed under his tongue. He gave Snape a miserable look as he closed his mouth once more.
Snape resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the teenager. It was just a thermometer. Hardly a reason to look so miserable.
He waited several moments before removing the thermometer from Harry's mouth inspecting it carefully with a small frown.
He placed it back down on the tray and sat down on the edge of the couch next to Harry picking up the first vial and holding it out to him.
"What's this one?" He took the vial, looking down at the liquid. Harry didn't like the look Snape had. He couldn't help but wonder if his fever had risen again.
"For your fever," Snape explained patiently. "Likely the most important potion for you to take."
Harry swallowed at the words, shifting his blanket around himself the best he could with one hand for several moments. He was stalling, and it was obvious.
"Harry James..." Snape said sternly. "If you aren't going to cooperate I could certainly take you to St. Mungo's."
It was an idle threat. Snape would never take the boy there. He only hoped that Harry didn't realize that.
Harry cringed at the tone as well as the threat before starring at Snape in disbelief. The man wouldn't. There was no way! Still, he didn't want to test it either. Harry gave a heavy sigh before he swallowed the first potion.
"A wise decision," Snape mused as he took the empty vial from Harry's hand and switched it out for a full one. "For your throat."
This time, Harry actually gave no complaints. He took the potion without a word, giving a sigh of content as his throat was almost instantly soothed.
Snape couldn't help but feel impressed with himself. His threat had worked better than he had expected it to.
He took the empty vial from Harry's hand and replaced it with a full one once again. "Let's see if we can't fix that cough of yours."
It was odd, but Harry actually felt better about taking the potions when Snape told him what exactly they were for.
He grabbed the next one, looking over it for a moment. While the fever reducer was the most important one in Snape's eyes, this one would be the one Harry would of picked first. The coughing was making him gag, making him feel like getting sick.
He took it in a few swallows, handing the empty vial back. "The coughs really hurt."
"Then taking the potion so willingly was wise. It should help it immensely."
He took the empty vial from Harry's hand and handed him a new one. "Last one. You won't have to take any more for a few hours at least."
"What's this one?" Harry stared down to it as he rested it on his lap.
"For the headache I am sure you have." He paused for a moment. "Drink it all and then you can have some soup."
"My head doesn't hurt that bad though." He swirled the potion idly, still staring down to it. Once again, stalling.
"It will prevent it from hurting worse." Snape gave the boy a pointed look. "Of course if you don't want to take it you don't have to. However then once you are well we will need to have quite a serious conversation about your refusal to obey my words."
"Why does everything have to be serious? Can't I just not take one potion?" He still hadn't looked up to Snape while he spoke, still looking down at the liquid.
"I believe I just told you that you had the option to not take it should it be that much of a hardship for you." Snape fought to keep the sternness out of his tone.
Harry sighed, continuing to stare down at the vial. "I've taken like, I don't know, eight potions today." He finally looked up to the man. "They're not really helping... are they?" He couldn't stop the disappointment from lacing his tone. He actually wanted to get better.
Snape raised an eyebrow at the words. "Did your throat not instantly start feeling better? I took several potions when I was ill and I am felt much better by the end of the day."
Harry sighed, waiting for several more moments before he finally drank the potion. He held the vial out, rubbing his eyes tiredly with his free hand.
"Thank you," Snape said as he placed the empty vial on the tray. "Are you ready to try some soup?"
"Yeah." Harry sat cross legged at that, hoping Snape wouldn't make him go into the dining room. "And some ice water?"
Snape nodded at the request tapping the coffee table lightly causing the meal to appear. "If you are eating out here you had best take extra care not to spill anything."
Harry leaned over, carefully taking the bowl from the table. With a small smirk, he feigned almost spilling the contents. He couldn't help being just the slightest bit cheeky.
Snape nearly jumped at the action before realizing the boy was kidding. "I cannot for the life of me understand why you think I won't punish you just because you are ill."
"Because you love me." It was a clear statement, the teen leaning back with the soup and taking a careful sip of it first.
Snape hummed softly at the words. "You are correct. I love you enough to see that you eat properly as well. You are finishing every bite of that soup."
At those words, Harry lowered the spoon for a moment. "Snaaape," he instantly whined. "What if I can't eat it all though?"
Snape moved back on the couch, now sitting next to his son. "You have hardly eaten today and you did not eat dinner last night," he gave the teenager a stern look, "every bite of the soup, no arguments."
Harry sighed as he watched his guardian sit next to him, looking back to his soup and taking a few more bites without a word.
"I hope I feel better tomorrow," He whispered after a moment.
"I am sure you will start to feel better by then if not feel completely better. You must be fever free to even think about leaving this house though."
Harry nodded as he ate several more bites.
A moment later Bane walked into the room and rested his head on the cushion staring up at Harry.
The child rested his spoon down, rubbing the dog's ear affectionately. Snape said he had to eat it all, he didn't say he had a time frame to eat it all by.
Snape eyed the boy carefully but said nothing. Anyone could have seen that Harry was stalling. However he refused to threaten the child over such a thing and turn him into a whining mess - at least not yet.
"He looks like he wants to play," Harry muttered softly.
"I will see to it that Minka takes him outside to get all of his energy out."
Harry sighed softly at the reply as he picked up his spoon and took several more bites. He was nearly halfway done. He shifted himself to lean just slightly against Snape. He paused once more, rubbing his eyes roughly with a groan. He didn't want to complain. He knew he'd only be handed another potion. So instead he tried to keep silent, sniffling while he continued to eat in general silence.
"What is it?" Snape questioned as he turned his body slightly to look down at the teenager. It often amazed him how well he had learned to read Harry - a year ago he would have missed all the signs.
"I just feel... awful. Like it's not just one thing. It's just..." Harry couldn't even describe it. Feeling sick just made his body feel so weak. He hated it. "I'm just tired."
Snape eyed the teenager carefully trying to decide whether he believed his words or if there was something else bothering him that he was not aware of. After a moment he decided to let it go. "Finish your soup and then you can lie back down and rest."
It took several more minutes, but Harry did finish the meal, taking a few gulps of the water as well. He hoped Snape was right. He hoped he'd start to feel better tomorrow. Or even that night like his guardian had. Harry placed the bowl on the table, rubbing his eyes once more.
Snape stood up, moving Harry's pillow to the end of the couch. "Lie down and rest. I am going to do a bit of grading while you do."
Harry nodded as he laid down, pulling his blanket with him as he nestled into his pillow. He hummed at the cold feeling of it, eyes closing instantly. He just wanted to stay asleep so he didn't have to take even more potions that day. As far as he was concerned he had already taken plenty.
Snape placed a gentle hand on Harry's forehead frowning slightly at how warm the boy still felt. He tried to convince himself that the potion just needed more time to work.
He crossed the room and sat down at his desk, setting to work on grading.
Harry's breathing eventually evened out, though it sounded ragged. The teen slept soundly however, eventually rolling over while a soft cough shook his shoulders. Still, he didn't wake, at least not fully if he did at all.
Harry whined softly, pulling the covers closer to himself as he shivered. Harry didn't want to wake up, but he felt terrible.
Harry pulled his quilt tightly to his chest, he was so cold. "Snaaaape," he whined softly, turning away from the back of the couch. He knew he'd be forced to take a potion but it was almost worth it to have his guardian near him.
After a few moments of silence, Harry whined softly once more. Where was he? He hid his face within his pillow. "Snaaape," he whined softly once more, pushing himself up slightly. His eyes opening as he looked around the parlor.
Harry looked down as Bane entered the parlor, collapsing back onto the couch and hanging his hand off the side of the couch. "Where's Snape?" His voice was soft, eyes closing once more as he turned onto his back. Why wasn't he feeling better?! He coughed once more, his arm raising and covering over his eyes as he did so.
"Snaaaaape!" He forced himself to speak much louder. He instantly regretted his action as his throat burned.
"Harry?" Snape replied as he stepped from the kitchen into the parlor. "Are you alright?"
Snape walked over to the couch, sitting on the edge. His hand instantly went to Harry's forehead, his concern growing.
Harry relaxed when he felt Snape sit, releasing a calmer sigh. "I'm cold," he whispered softly, his eyes remaining closed as he did so. "I called for you." He tucked his covers under his chin then, nestling his head between the back of the couch and between his pillow.
"I'm sorry I didn't hear you." Snape frowned his hand not leaving Harry's forehead. "You are burning up again."
Harry simply whined at the words. They were not what he wanted to hear. "Not another potion," he whispered softly.
Snape's frown deepened at the words. "Harry I can't just allow your fever to continue."
Harry finally opened his eyes, staring at Snape for a moment with a pained expression. Was the potion even helping? It didn't seem like it. He had taken more than one potion for his fever already.
Snape sighed softly. "I'm afraid you might need a bigger dose of the fever reliever." He braced himself for the reaction to his words.
"Noooo Snaaape!" Harry turned away from the man then, curling into himself as he pressed himself against the back of the couch. "I'm not taking anymore."
"It's not up for debate Harry, you know that," Snape said as gently as he could. He would have liked to hex the child's tongue out of his mouth making it unable for him to ever whine again."
Snape gave the child's backside a light tap before he stood and moved towards his laboratory.
He returned a moment later with a larger than normal vial in his hand. He sat down on the edge of the couch once more. "Alright Harry, come now. Just drink it quickly."
Harry didn't turn towards the man, keeping himself against the back of the couch. "'I'm fine."
"You aren't," Snape replied firmly. "You still have a fever. Now please roll over and sit up so you can take this potion." He paused for a moment and when the teenager made no movement he continued a bit sterner. "If you refuse to take it I am not going to be pleased."
Harry's shoulders tensed slightly at the words however he still made no movements to get up. "I don't want to take it. I've had nothing but potions. Please, I'm tired of them." Harry's voice was soft, he turned his head just slightly to look over his shoulder at Snape.
"I know," Snape nodded. "However we have to get you feeling better and the potions will do that." He paused once more forcing his voice to go from gentle to serious. "As I told you earlier if you are going to refuse it we are going to need to have quite the discussion about it once you are well."
"I've told you that I don't want to though." Harry turned his body then to face Snape completely, still not sitting up however.
"And I have told you that it is not up for debate." Snape gave the boy a pointed look. "I hardly think you want to get well only to find yourself in trouble? Hmm?"
He hated he was being threatened with being in trouble after he got better. It wasn't fair, he felt terrible enough as it was. Harry scowled at his guardian, still refusing to sit up.
Snape frowned at the look on the boy's face. "Okay don't take it then." Snape stood as his eyes remained on his child.
"I don't want you to punish me for it," Harry whispered, his gaze falling. He wanted to go out when he was better, not be scolded… or worse.
"I'm not going to punish you for it," Snape promised.
Harry stared at his guardian for a moment, narrowing his eyes just slightly before he slowly closed his eyes. There had to be a catch. Snape wouldn't let him just get off the hook of taking a potion like that. Would he?
"I'll be right back," Snape promised as he placed the vial on the coffee table. He walked back towards his laboratory, sighing softly as he left. There was more than one way to get medicine into his child.
Harry couldn't help the uneasiness that rose in him. Yet he turned himself to face more towards the back of the couch, taking in a calming breath as he willed sleep to come back to him.
Snape returned a few moments later, sitting on the edge of the couch once more. "Harry James," his voice was soft as he withdrew the needle from inside his cloak. "If you aren't going to take the potion we are going to have to resort to the only other option."
Harry's eyes shot opened at the words, sitting up in one swift movement. "Wha-?" His eyes instantly caught sight of the needle and he pushed himself away from his guardian.
"No!" He coughed harshly from the sudden word, holding his arm up to cover it. Harry shook his head rapidly as fear was evident over his face. "I-I'm not getting a needle over itttttt!"
"If you refuse to take the potion this is the only other choice," Snape explained trying to keep his voice calm. "As I already explained to you this is not up for debate. You will pick one or the other or you will be in danger of being punished once you are well."
It pained Snape to be so harsh with the teenager but he wasn't about to allow him to continue with a fever and do nothing about it.
Tears welled within Harry's eyes as Snape spoke, his hand raising to rub them away before they had the chance to fall. He felt so miserable and this just wasn't helping!
"Potion," Harry whispered, pushing himself to rest his back against the corner of the couch. His arms wrapped around his knees as Harry continued to rub softly at his eyes to keep the tears from falling.
Snape nodded choosing to ignore the tears as he slipped the needle back into his pocket. He picked up the large vial from the coffee table and held it out to Harry. "All of it."
Harry took the vial, staring at it for a moment before he finally drank the contents. It took a few swallows but he finally held the empty vial towards his guardian.
The moment Snape took it out of his hand he rolled onto his side so his back faced the man. He fought to keep his emotions under control. Now he had to worry about getting a needle if he didn't want to take a potion? That's wasn't fair! Harry pulled the covers around him tightly, eyes closing as he hid his face into the back of the couch.
"Thank you." Snape's words were gentle as he placed the empty vial on the coffee table.
A moment later he reached out and gently rubbed Harry's back. "Don't be upset with me Harry, I am trying to make you well. If you wouldn't fight me every step of the way I wouldn't have to be stern with you."
Harry sniffed softly, taking in a shuddering breath. "You d-don't have to use needles." Despite knowing the man was much more gentle with the needle than that old muggle doctor was, it was still an irrational fear. A few times of Snape administering the needle gently did not erase it.
Snape frowned at the words, he could clearly hear the tears in them. "I know that you do not like them but when you flat out refuse to take the potion it is the only other option. I cannot allow you to just lie there with a fever, surely you know that."
Harry turned over then, tears clinging to his lashes as he looked up to his guardian. "Why won't it go away?" His voice was soft, a hand raising to rub at his eyes.
Snape frowned softly at the tears. "I don't know. Hopefully that dose and half you just took will do the trick. Perhaps it just needed to run its course." Snape placed a gentle hand on the boy's forehead. "You feel a bit cooler than you did only moments ago."
Harry closed his eyes at the touch, a single tear escaping as did so. "I hope so," he whispered, not being able to fight the yawn that struggled past.
Snape's hand moved down, his thumb brushing a single tear from the teenager's cheek. "Why don't you try and sleep some more? I'll stay in the room this time."
Harry nodded softly at the words, releasing a soft sigh as he did so. "Love you," He whispered, his hands tucking under his pillow as he nestled his head into it. It wasn't something that was said often. It didn't have to be. It was just known. Still, in that moment Harry felt he had to say it.
A small smile formed on Snape's lips at the words before he leaned down and placed a kiss on the teenager's forehead. "I love you. Now get some rest."
Snape walked across the parlor, sitting in his armchair and picking up the book that was sitting on the table next to it.
Harry opened his eyes to watching his guardian sit, fighting sleep the best he could. With a breath however, he gave a soft hum as sleep soon pulled at his mind. He had never felt so tired. He felt as if he hadn't slept in days - even after sleeping so much of the day away. Harry only hoped that the next morning he would feel better.
Snape kept his word eating his dinner in the living room as Harry slept.
Hours later as Snape turned the last page of his book he glanced up at the clock. He sighed softly to himself as he leaned back in his chair prepared to spend the night where he was. He wasn't going to wake Harry and he wasn't going to leave the room for fear that he would wake while he was gone.
Snape read the last page of his book before setting it back on the table beside him. He closed his eyes as he leaned his head back praying that his son would wake up feeling better. A moment later sleep took over his body.
It was nearly three in the morning when Harry woke, sitting up suddenly, with a horrible coughing fit. His shoulders heaved as he bowed his head forward with a soft groan of pain.
Harry heard Bane's nails click against the floor as he moved towards the couch, resting his head near Harry's with a soft whine. The teen collapsed onto his elbows, his head still down within his pillow.
The coughing caused Snape to awake. He glanced up at the clock before he was on his feet.
He sat on the edge of the couch placing a gentle hand on Harry's back. "Are you alright?"
Harry simply gave a soft whimper into his pillow, a smaller cough shaking his shoulders. His chest hurt, feeling heavy as he forced himself to swallow another cough. "Sorry," he whispered softly.
Confusion swept over Snape's face as he continued to rub the boy's back. "What in Merlin's name are you apologizing for?"
"Waking you up," he whispered, eyes remaining closed. Harry rolled over just slightly so he was facing towards his guardian.
Snape's hand reached out and touched the boy's forehead. He was still warm but not nearly as warm as he had been hours ago. He sighed as he reached over to the coffee table and picked up the thermometer from the tray. "Open," he requested.
Harry did so without a word, closing his mouth once it was in place. He opened his eyes finally, looking over towards Snape.
Snape locked eyes with the child before reaching over the boy and giving his backside a very light tap. "Do not apologize to me for being ill. Understood?"
The boy nodded into hispillow, a pitiful look on his face.
A moment later Snape reached out and took the thermometer from Harry's mouth, reading it carefully. "It's not nearly as high as it was hours ago however, it's not back down to normal either."
Harry slowly pushed himself up, rubbing his eyes as he did so. "Another potionnn?" He couldn't help the small whine, lowering his hand as his gaze dropped.
"Indeed. You know the option should you choose not to take it." Snape forced himself to ignore the whine - the emotions.
Harry bowed his head forward, giving a soft whine. "But it's not even going awaaay." He tangled his fingers within his hair, closing his eyes.
"It lowered it a great deal," Snape pointed out as he reached out and pulled Harry's hands out of his hair. "Doing nothing at all certainly won't make it go away either." He stood up and headed in the direction of his laboratory. "I'll be right back."
Harry whined softly as the man left, his hands dropping to his knees as he watched him disappear towards the laboratory. Another heavy coughing fit erupted from his throat as he covered his mouth with the back of his hand.
"We have a cough and a fever to deal with," Snape said as he walked back into the parlor. "Is anything else bothering you? Your stomach? Your throat? Do you have any body aches?"
Harry shook his head. He very nearly mentioned his throat was actually hurting- but he refused. He would just get another potion for it and he was sure that it would go away on its own. "Can I have the one for the cough first?"
"You may." Snape held out the vial. "Be sure to drink all of it. After you take both of these we'll discuss the rest of the night."
The teen rubbed an eye tiredly, taking the potion without complaint. He took an easy breath, not having to worry about a cough immediately afterwards.
Harry grabbed the second vial from the coffee table, looking at it for a bit longer. He was tired of this fever. It just wouldn't break. He felt too tired to argue right then, simply taking the second potion as well before handing the vials back to the man.
Snape breathed a sigh of relief at how easily Harry had taken the potions. At three in the morning he had hardly wanted to argue with the teenager nor have to threaten them. "Thank you."
He paused for a moment as he set the two empty vials on the tray. "I think we should move upstairs for the remainder of the night."
"Okay." Again, Harry had absolutely no fight in him so early in the morning. After all, while he did love sleeping on the couch, it also hurt his neck badly if he wasn't careful.
Snape raised an eyebrow truly shocked by how easily the teenager agreed. He had been prepared for whining - tears even. "Alright then let's get you up to bed."
Snape stood as he pulled the quilt off of Harry and folded it over his arm. "Don't forget your pillow."
Harry grabbed his pillow, holding it tightly to his front as he trailed after Snape slowly. "But my fever was a little better right?" His tone sounded hopeful. Maybe by morning it would be gone.
"Yes," Snape nodded as he started up the stairs. "It was lower than it was earlier."
"I hope it's gone tomorrow," he whispered, rubbing both eyes once more. "No more potions and a trip out."
"We shall see in the morning," Snape replied as he entered Harry's room. "Hopefully you will wake up good as new. But for now, into bed please."
"Will you stay until I fall asleep at least?" He placed his pillow back into its spot lying down and curling his hands under it. His eyes closed as did so, a small smile playing at his lips at the thought of feeling better in the morning.
Snape nodded as he covered Harry with the quilt. "Do you think you can fall asleep without help?" He hoped that by not spelling out that help would come in the form of a potion Harry wouldn't whine in response.
"I have been all day," Harry pointed out, not even bothering to open his eyes. "Or have you been sneaking those potions in as well?" He peered an eye open towards his guardian at his slight cheekiness.
"I have not given you a single potion that you are not aware of," Snape said as he sat on the edge of Harry's bed. "However that is not a bad idea Harry James. It would certainly cause far less whining if I just mixed them into your food without your knowledge."
"You wouldn't dare," Harry hissed softly, curling over slightly towards the direction of Snape. He yawned widely, wincing as he did so and quickly shutting his mouth.
Snape's eyes narrowed on the child their current conversation forgotten. "How is your throat Harry James? Because I could have sworn you just told me only moments ago that it was not hurting." His voice was stern but he did not care. If the boy wasn't so sick he was sure he would have given him a good swat for the lie he had obviously told.
Harry hummed, resting on his stomach. "It's fine. Just yawned too much is all." He hoped his tone sounded convincing. He was so tired of potions.
Snape reached out and gave the teenager's backside a firm tap though with the quilt over him, he knew he hardly felt it. "Are we going to have to have a conversation about blatantly lying young man?"
"You're just going to give me another potion or worse a damn needle." Harry didn't even care about his language right then.
Snape felt himself growing sterner yet at the words. "Roll over this instant and let's you and I get one thing straight. I do not give you potions unless they are needed. You are sick. Lying to me about whether or not something is bothering you is only going to result in your taking a trip over my knee after spending some time in the corner the moment that you are well."
Harry slowly rolled over at the words, pushing himself up to a sitting position as he did so. He kept his gaze onto his knees as Snape spoke, the guilt clearly plastered across his face. "I'm sorry. I just don't want any more."
"Open your mouth and let me see that throat of yours." The words came out much more harshly than Snape would have liked. "You had better hope it isn't that bad."
Harry winced at the tone, hot tears welling up as he swallowed heavily. Snape was already so mad. Swallowing once more, Harry opened his mouth, his eyes closing so he didn't have to see Snape's expression.
Snape leaned forward, inspecting the child's throat before reaching out and tapping Harry's chin firmly. "Harry James," he scolded harshly. "Did we not very recently have a conversation about you telling me when something is wrong? Your throat is as red as your backside very well may be in a day or so."
Harry closed his mouth, wincing just faintly as he did so. The air hurt his throat and made it more difficult to swallow. "No Snape! I'm sorry! Everything has been wrong, I'm sorry." He rubbed at his eyes and he breathing hitched slightly. "Nothing is getting b-better."
Snape felt himself soften slightly at the words accompanied by the near tears the child was in. "Listen to me, if you want to get better you need to tell me when something hurts and take the potion for it. You have only been sick for a day Harry. It isn't as if it has been days and you are not getting well is it?" His voice was a bit gentler as he spoke. "Now I am going to get you something for your throat and then you are going to lie down and go to sleep. When you are feeling better we will be discussing this habit you have of lying directly to my face."
"I-it's not a habit!" Harry argued at the words, immediately regretting it as speaking was starting to hurt his throat even more. Several tears fell down his cheeks as he let his head drop. "I'm sorry," he whispered.
"I will be right back," Snape promised as he stood and left the room.
He returned several moments later with a vial in his hand. He sat down on the edge of Harry's bed once more as he held it out to the teenager, not commenting at all on his tears.
Harry looked at the potion being held out, giving the man a near heartbroken look as he took it. After a moment he glanced down to the vial with a soft whine. "I'm going to become a potion myself."
Snape raised an eyebrow at the words forcing himself to ignore the look. "That's highly unlikely. Now drink it please, it is nearly 3:30 in the morning."
With a soft sigh, Harry did so. It was gone within a couple of gulps. His shoulders instantly relaxed at the relief, holding the empty vial out to Snape. As it was taken, he slowly laid back down.
Snape took the empty vial, slipping it into his pocket. Before pulling the quilt up over Harry's shoulder. "How is your throat now?" His tone was knowing.
"Better," he whispered softly, eyes closing as nestled his cheek against his pillow. "I'm sorry."
"Okay," Snape nodded. "As I said we will discuss it when you are well. Try and sleep now."
Harry curled up, pulling his covers close to himself. He mucked everything up. Now he was going to be in trouble. Sleep pulled at his mind soon after however, a soft whine dying at Harry's lips as he drifted off.
Snape sat with the boy for several long moments after he fell asleep, making sure that he was in a deep sleep before he slowly stood careful not to wake Harry.
He made the way across the hall to his own room leaving both Harry's door as well as his own open in case his son called for him.
Harry tossed and turned into the morning, the sun shining into his room. He whined softly as rolled onto his stomach, a strong cough forcing its way past. It lasted for several seconds, a rough sickly hack ending it. He was almost concerned he was going to sick up from it. His hand rested on his own chest, pressing against it as he breathed heavily.
He wasn't better. No, he felt worse! Hot tears rose, blurring his vision as the same hand on his chest moved to his throat. A strong shiver sent the teen back under his blanket, a whine escaping him. No, he wanted to go out today! It wasn't fair! Several tears escaped, his throat aching from the sob that rested at the back of his throat.
"S-Snaaaaape!" Harry knew he would have to take more potions, despite the fact that they clearly weren't even working. Couldn't the man see that! He coughed once more, a whine passing his lips at the pain it caused.
Snape was in Harry's room moments later, concern plastered on his face. One look at the teenager answered his question before he even asked it. "Not feeling better?" His voice was gentle as he walked across the room and sat on the edge of Harry's bed, his hand reaching out and feeling Harry's forehead as displeasure took over his features.
"I haaaaate this!" He coughed roughly at his words, his shoulders hunching over. Harry leaned into the touch slightly, swallowing heavily with a whine.
"I know," Snape said softly as the hand moved from Harry's forehead to gently rub down his cheek. "I don't expect you to like it." Snape gave the boy a sad look. "Why don't we get something in you to help and then maybe a nice warm bath?"
"They're not woooorkinnnng!" Angry tears slipped down his cheeks, hitting Snape's hand as he looked up to his guardian. "I don't want to take something that i-isn't helping!"
Snape considered these words. "Potions don't always cure sickness in seconds Harry, you know that." He could certainly understand the boy's frustration, he wasn't sure that Harry had ever been quite this sick. "Would you rather I asked Remus to run to a muggle store and fetch some medicine from there?" Snape would hardly consider such an option but then he knew his son well enough to know that he wouldn't agree to it either.
"No!" Harry made a face at the words. He sniffed, coughing once more with a soft whine. There was one thing he knew well - muggle medicine did not taste like peppermint.
"Then you are in agreement that you need to take some potions? Now aside from the fever and the cough what is bothering you? Is your throat still hurting?" Snape asked hoping his question wouldn't turn into a whining argument about the discussion he had promised the child in the middle of the night. "Do you have a headache? Body aches?"
Harry nodded at the questions, implying a yes to all. He rubbed at his eyes as a soft sob escaped past his lips. "I-its not fair!" He coughed, resting his forehead into his hand. "I wanna go out!"
"We will next weekend," Snape promised as he stood. "I'll be right back."
He quickly made his way out of the room and down the staircase to his laboratory returning several moments later with a tray.
He set it down on Harry's bedside table picking up the thermometer. "Open please."
Harry forced himself up into a sitting position, looking positively miserable as he did so. Without argument, he opened his mouth and allowed the thermometer to be placed correctly. With a soft whine, he closed his mouth once again, his gaze remaining on his guardian.
"I think a warm bath and some oatmeal might help you more than you realize." Snape pulled the thermometer from the boy's mouth and read it carefully, frowning slightly. "Still not as high as it was yesterday morning nor yesterday afternoon."
"So it's getting better?" His tone was slightly hopeful despite the fact that he felt worse.
Snape nodded in reply as he placed the thermometer on the tray and picked up the first vial. "For your cough."
Harry took the vial, whining softly one more at the thought of taking several potions. He looked up at his guardian for a moment before he sighed, downing it in a few gulps. He held it back out, shaking his head. "I don't want any more potions."
Snape ignored the words, talking the empty vial and then gently tapping his son's chin. "Open up and let me see your throat."
Harry swallowed, opening his mouth as he closed his eyes. The action hurt, not being able to keep his mouth open for long before he felt the need to shut it.
Snape got a quick look down the teenager's throat before the mouth closed. He placed a gentle hand on Harry's knee giving it a light squeeze for he picked up another vial and held it out to him.
"Noooo," Harry whined softly, turning his head away from the offered potion. "No more Snape. I'm not taking any more!"
Snape sighed softly. "We've been over this Harry James not taking them in not an option. Would you prefer several needles to get them into you? Hmm? Come one now. Minka is drawing a bath for you and putting something in it for your body aches so that is one less potion you will have to take." He reached out and lightly tapped Harry's chin.
Harry hated the options he was given, giving a soft whine. "Can't I just take the bath first?" It was obviously a way of stalling, his eyes pleading to his guardian.
Snape shook his head before changing his mind. "I will compromise with you. Take this for your fever now and you may take the potion for your sore throat after your bath."
Harry sighed, watching Snape for a moment before he nodded. Taking the vial from the man, Harry quickly downed it in a quick few swallows. "Here," he whispered, holding the vial back out to the man.
"See, that wasn't that hard was it?" Snape took the vial from the teenager and placed it back on the tray. "I will never understand why you put up such a fight over this. I am even kind enough to flavor them for you, imagine how bad they could be if I decided not to do so any longer."
"Snaaaape," Harry instantly whined at that. "I just hate that they are all I've been having! I've lost count how many I've had!" He rubbed under his eyes briefly.
"Yet when you are made to eat you whine about that as well." Snape reached out and gave the boy's chin a light tap. "Go on and get in the bath. I'm sure it is ready by now."
Harry shifted on his bed, almost ready to stand before he leaned over and wrapped his arms around his guardian tightly. His forehead rested against Snape's shoulder as he did so. He just wanted to feel better.
"If you would just stop with all your whining that alone would likely make you feel a little better." Snape's voice was gentle but it still held an underlying hint of sternness. He wrapped his arms around the teenager, giving him a tight squeeze. "Potions, food, and rest. I promise you Harry if you would stop fighting me every step of the way on two of those you will get well quicker and with much less scolding not to mention punishment when you are well."
"But it's not working," he whispered into the man's shoulder, his grip tightening just slightly. "And don't punish me when I'm better!" Harry tilted his head to the side slightly as he spoke.
"Your fever has lowered. When you are this sick potions don't always instantly make you well though I would think that by this evening you should start to feel much better." He moved his head slightly, allowing himself to see Harry's face out of the corner of his eye. "Did you not lie directly to my face last night? Forgive me but I could have sworn that you did."
Harry shifted his head further down, effectively hiding his own face from Snape's view. "I'm just tired of potions. I shouldn't be punished for that." His voice remained soft, eyes closing.
"What are you more tired of taking potions or being sick? Hmm?" Snape asked as his hand gently rubbed the boy's back.
"Both." Harry answered, his arms loosening slightly.
Snape moved his hands, hooking them under Harry's armpits as he pulled the boy away from him, lifting and moving the child to stand in front of him with ease. "We will talk about it more after your bath." He turned the teenager slightly landing a light swat to his backside. "Go on now. It will help you feel better. And when you are done make sure you dry yourself completely; there are clean pajamas in the bathroom and they aren't meant to stick to your wet body. You can come down to the parlor after."
Harry moved a few steps forward at the light swat, looking over his shoulder towards the man. "I'm not a child. I know," he muttered softly, leaving the room as he did so.
He went into the bathroom, shutting and locking the door. Harry leaned forward against the sink, looking himself over. He looked terrible.
He undressed quickly and tossed his clothes to the corner. The water just looked nice and he sunk into it. Harry sighed softly as he leaned his head back, eyes closing as he relaxed. He could sleep here and not care. Harry felt his eyes closing, a soft hum passing his lips as he felt his muscles relax. He could feel himself fading off to sleep, struggling to keep his eyes open. Failing however, he decided that maybe just resting his eyes for a few minutes wouldn't be terrible.
Snape remained on Harry's bed until he heard the bathroom door shut. As he stood, he picked up Harry's pillow and then his quilt and carried them out of the room summoning the tray to follow him. He walked into the parlor and arranged Harry's bedding on the couch before allowing the tray to set on the coffee table.
After he summoned Minka requesting oatmeal and a large glass of ice water when Harry came downstairs.
Snape crossed the room, sitting down at his desk with his work in front of him. He planned to get at least some done while Harry bathed.
The man began grading, the time slipping away from him as he did so. When he finished the pile of exams he had been working on, Snape glanced up at the clock as he sighing softly. Harry had been in the bath for nearly 45 minutes now.
Slowly he set down his quill and moved to the bottom of the staircase listening for any sounds that the teenager was dressing.
When he was met with silence he climbed the staircase and walked to the lavatory, pausing in front of the door. He knocked loudly before going to turn the handle only to find the door locked. "Harry James," he spoke in a loud voice.
Harry jolted in the water at the voice, coughing loudly at the shock of Snape's loud tone and the knocking. He bowed his head forward as the coughing lessened. "I'm fine," Harry called back, takinga deep breath. Had he really just fallen asleep in the bath?
"You've been in there for three quarters of an hour. It's time to get out now." Snape resisted the urge to unlock the door himself. As long as the boy cooperated he would give him his privacy.
"I'm coming out soon," Harry yawned, wincing and stopping mid yawn. He stretched his arms above himself. He could stay in the water all day and not care.
"You have ten more minutes or I am coming in," Snape promised him before turning and walking down the hall.
Harry rolled his eyes at the words, listening as Snape walked away. He didn't want to test those words, letting the water drain before he stood. He grabbed his towel, covering his face with it for a few moments tiredly. With a sigh, Harry quickly dried himself before dressing and stepping into the hall.
He knew he'd have to take a potion as soon as he got stairs and he huffed at the thought. Still, he made his way down and into the parlor. Harry couldn't help the small grin at seeing the couch made up for him to sleep on.
"On the couch please. I want to check your temperature once more as well as your throat and you still have one last potion to take. Did the water help your body aches?"
Harry looked over at his guardian's desk where the man was sitting, obeying the words with another yawn. He covered his mouth with the back of his hand, wincing once again from his throat. He leaned against the back of the couch with a soft hum. "Yeah," he murmured. "A lot, actually."
"Good," Snape nodded as he stood and crossed the room. He sat on the edge of the coffee table, his knees touching his child's.
He picked up the thermometer giving Harry a pointed look as he moved it towards his mouth.
Harry needed no further prompting, opening his mouth with a sad expression taking his face. When it was placed under his tongue, he closed his mouth. He just wanted to be better.
"After this potion, food, and then a nap," Snape said the words in a no nonsense tone. "We are goingto get you well by tonight."
Harry gave Snape a skeptical look at his words. He couldn't be so positive he'd be better- but he did hope so. Then tomorrow things could get back to normal. He only hoped Snape would forget that he lied about his throat by then.
Snape reached out and took the thermometer from the boy's mouth nodding as he read it. "A bit lower. Still a ways off from normal but a bit lower."
He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "Let me see that throat of yours."
Just as the times before, Harry swallowed before he opened his mouth. This time however he didn't open it as wide so it didn't hurt his throat as bad as it did before.
Snape peered down Harry's throat frowning slightly at what he saw. "Perhaps I should do nothing to help you with this being that you lied to me about it hurting let alone how bad it was," Snape mussed as he gently tapped his son's chin signaling that he could close his mouth.
Harry closed his mouth, swallowing once again with a wince. "You're not going to let that go are you?" His voice was soft, a dejected look crossing his face. "I didn't lie! It wasn't hurting that bad at the time."
Snape raised an eyebrow at the words. "And now another lie in an attempt to cover the first? Oh what a tangled web we weave indeed." He fixed Harry with a pointed look. "If I were you I don't know that I would be quite so eager to be well." He sat up straight once more his hands now resting on his knees were his elbows had been.
"Snaaaape! Nooooo." Tears stung at Harry's vision as he stared up to the man. How did the man know so easily when he was lying? He raised a hand, rubbing at the tears before they could fall. It felt like it had been so long since he had been in real, serious trouble with the man. Harry didn't want that to end.
"We will continue this conversation when you are well," Snape dismissed the topic refusing to acknowledge the tears. "You need to take the potion for your throat now." He turned and reached behind him picking up a vial that was a tad larger than normal. He held his breath as he held the vial out for Harry to take.
Tears continued to blur the teen's vision as he looked at the potion. "Noooo," his voice was hoarse as he shook his head.
"Harry James," Snape warned. He was beginning to lose his patience with his son's constant refusal to listen. "If you think for even a moment that saying no is an option you are very wrong young man."
Ignoring the words, Harry laid down on the couch, rolling over so his back faced towards his guardian.
"Okay that's it," Snape said hoping his voice sounded serious. He gave the teenager a light swat to his backside. "Up and off the couch. Go up to your room and put your trainers and a jacket on."
Harry flinched at the swat, curling further against the back of the couch. What was Snape playing at? "Why?"
Snape landed another light swat as the teenager did not move. "Because I am the adult and your guardian and I am telling you to do so. Now go do as I have said. If you aren't going to listen to me and take your medication then you have left me with no choice Harry." He hardly meant any of the words that he was speaking but he was not against scaring his child into obeying him.
Harry sat up at the second swat, at least protecting his bum from anymore. A sudden fear rose within him. "Not St. Mungo's," he whispered, shaking his head. "I'll take it. I promise!"
Snape raised an eyebrow at the words relieved that his false threat had worked - relieved that Harry had believed it. "This is your very last chance. You argue with me about taking a potion even once more and I promise you that we are going there. I do not care if I have to carry you there while you fight me the entire way. Understood?"
Harry nodded slowly, several tears having fallen during the brief time. He rubbed his eyes roughly. He didn't want to be poked and prodded by strangers.
Snape held the vial out once more. "Stop with the tears and take this so that we may get you something to eat."
Harry took the vial, looking ready to argue against the plan. But at the look Snape had, it died at his tongue and he looked down at the liquid. He downed the potion after a few moments, holding the empty vial back out to the man.
Snape took the empty vial out of the boy's hand and placed it back on the tray. He was tempted to remind the teenager once more that this was his last chance but he refrained.
"I had planned on oatmeal for you this morning but your throat is still quite red. Perhaps it would appreciate ice cream more?"
"Really?" Harry swallowed, his throat still aching. The potion took the edge off of it, but he hardly wanted to speak much. He couldn't bring himself to believe the man.
Snape nodded as he tapped the coffee table next to his leg causing a bowl of vanilla ice cream to appear.
He picked it up and held it out to Harry. "I am hardly setting out to be stern with you," he said softly. "You however keep putting me in the position where I have no choice but to be just that."
Harry took the bowl, looking down at the ice cream with just the faintest of smiles. "Thank you," he whispered before taking a small bite while relaxing back against the couch once more. It soothed his burning throat and he sighed in content.
"Perhaps it you can refrain from arguing about taking your medicine we can keep you on ice cream alone today." Snape moved from his spot on the coffee table to sit next to Harry on the couch. "Hmm?"
Almost instantly, Harry leaned into his guardian's side as he took another bite. He nodded slowly at the words, eyes closing as he allowed the ice cream to soothe his throat.
Snape mentally scolded himself for not thinking of ice cream sooner. This was the most he had seen Harry eat - and willingly at that.
"I'm glad that your bath helped," Snape said softly as he wrapped an arm around Harry pulling him closer. "Eat all of that and if you want more after that can certainly be arranged."
Harry took another bite, curling himself up against the man as he spoke. "Fell asleep actually," His voice sounded more normal. The potion as well as the ice cream had helped in immensely.
"In the bath?" A small hint of amusement escaped Snape's lips. "Perhaps another one this evening then if you are still feeling poorly."
Harry nodded against Snape's shoulder at the offer, finishing the ice cream in just a few more bites. "I'm tired" he whispered, resting the bowl in his lap as he tilted his head against his guardian.
"A nap and then more ice cream," Snape decided as he picked up the bowl before carefully moving Harry from his side to the pillow.
Snape placed the bowl on the coffee table before moving from the couch to the table once more, allowing Harry room to stretch out. He pulled the quilt up over the boy.
He was sitting on the table so that he was inches from Harry's face. He reached out and placed a gentle hand on Harry's forehead pleased to find that he did not feel any warmer.
Harry tucked one hand under the pillow. For a moment he struggled to keep his eyes open, looking up to his guardian as he blinked slowly. He had been such a brat yet Snape was letting him eat ice cream? "Sorry," he whispered softly.
Snape raised an eyebrow at the word as his hand fell from Harry's forehead. "Which misdeed are we apologizing for exactly?" Snape couldn't help but ask.
"All of them." Harry's eyes closed once more, his voice hardly above a whisper. He turned so he was lying on his stomach, both arms tucking under the pillow.
Snape hummed softly at the words. "I believe I said we would discuss at least one of them when you are well. As for your other behavior..." he paused reaching out and giving Harry's chin a light tap with his pointer finger. "It is okay. I know that you do not feel well and that it is frustrating. However when you wake up you are going to behave better correct?"
Harry nodded in agreement. "I will but I don't want to have a… a discussion when I'm better." Harry tilted his head to face his guardian.
"No I do not imagine that you do," Snape said softly as his hand reached out and ruffled Harry's hair. "But you also know the consequence for telling a bold faced lie. Do you not?"
"Please don't punish me," Harry's words came out in a near plea. "I've just been feeling like shit." He didn't even care about his language as he curled up under his quilt.
"Language," Snape chided softly. He gave the boy a sad look. "I believe our arrangement calls for me to stand by my word does it not? Both when you like the consequences as well as when you do not? I understand that you have not been feeling well however you knew exactly what you were doing when you lied to me. You were trying to get out of taking a potion weren't you?"
Harry's lower lip started to quiver at the very words, turning away so his back was towards his guardian. Tears started to well within his vision.
"I'm sorry," he whispered again, burrowing his head into the back of the couch.
"Oh no Sir," Snape said with a light poke to the boy's back. "You were insistent that we have this conversation now. Roll back over and finish it. I am not going to speak to the back of your head."
Harry slowly pushed himself up, rubbing his eyes as tears started to fall. He turned over to face Snape with a sniff. "I wasn't thinking about it. I just... I take like four potions every few hours. I was tired of it. I'm sorry."
Snape reached out allowing a thumb to brush a few tears from Harry's face. "Are you admitting to me that you lied about your throat so that you wouldn't have to take the potion for it?"
Harry felt his throat tighten. He hadn't admitted to lying.. Snape just almost always knew.
"Y-yeah," he whispered, his gaze falling down.
"Yet you somehow feel it is unfair that you are punished for this?" Snape questioned making sure his tone remained gentle. "Despite knowing that when you lie the consequence is a trip over my knee."
"I-I wasn't thinking.. I," Harry rubbed at his eyes once more. Panic rose slightly within him. He didn't want to be punished over this! "I'm sorry Snape!"
"Okay," Snape nodded. He could not help but feel sympathy for the child. He was sure that Harry felt horrible. "We will let this one go. However, one more moment of cheek Harry, one more refusal to take a potion or do something I have asked, one more moment of defiance or misbehavior and there won't be any more excuses or apologies. The moment that you are well your backside will be having a very long discussion with my hand. Do we understand each other?" He made sure his voice remained calm. He hardly wanted to turn the few tears that his son was shedding into hysterics.
"I s-swear I won't," Harry shook his head, rubbing the tears away once more.
"Okay." Snape reached out and rubbed the teenagers back for a moment. "Calm down. All these tears are not going to help your throat in the least. I'm not cross with you."
Harry nodded slowly, lying back down on his side facing his guardian. A few stray tears slipped down his cheek as Harry tried to get comfortable once more.
Snape reached out and carefully brushed the last of Harry's tears from his face. "Just calm down. Try and relax. You need to take a nap for a bit. I will sit at my desk and work in case you need me."
"Okay," Harry murmured, eyes closing with a soft sigh. He was actually starting to feel the slightest bit better. The teenager pulled the quilt over his shoulder, tucking his chin under it.
Snape sighed softly as he watched Harry close his eyes and get comfortable.
He stood moving over to his desk as he quietly pulled out a stack of first year exams that he needed to grade. He silently hoped that his child remained true to his word and woke in a much more pleasant and obedient mood.
Several hours passed before Harry started to shift under his quilt, giving a soft hum. A yawn forced its way past as he pushed himself up on his hands before sitting up fully. He felt... great. Not perfect, but much better.
Snape glanced up from his work as he heard the boy shift. Abandoning it completely when he looked over at Harry to see him sitting up.
In a moment Snape was across the room, once again perched on the edge of the coffee table. "How are you feeling?"
His hand instantly reached out resting on Harry's forehead, a grateful look passing over his face as he realized how cool the teenager felt.
"Better. So much better." Harry couldn't help the grin from crossing his face. "My throat just itches a little." His grinned only widened when he saw Snape's look.
Snape turned, picking up the thermometer. "Best be certain. Open please."
Harry did so, closing his mouth once it was placed under his tongue. Hope filled his eyes as he watched Snape, having to force his face into a more neutral look to be sure the thermometer gave an accurate reading.
Snape said a silent prayer that the boy was in fact better as he waited the appropriate time for the thermometer to do its job.
A moment later he gently pulled it from Harry's mouth, a small grin twitching at his lips. "Completely back to normal." He leaned forward, his elbows on his knees just as he had hours earlier. "Open up and let me see that throat."
Harry gave no argument, opening his mouth as ordered. He was able to do so with no pain as well.
Snape peered inside the boy's mouth, giving Harry's chin a light tap a moment later. "Slightly pink still buy a vast improvement from earlier. How is your head? Do you have any body aches at all?"
Harry shook his head happily. "None of that I swear"
Snape nodded approvingly at the words. "I think you should still spend the better part of today resting however, it seems as though you are certainly much better than you were only hours ago."
Harry beamed widely at the words. "If I am still feeling better tomorrow can I go visit Ron and Hermione for a little bit?"
Snape considered the words before nodding. "For a very little while. Perhaps an hour or so. You have a whole new list of school work to complete for the week and if you have any hope of visiting Diagon Alley next weekend I want it all completed before then."
"It will be," Harry promised. He was pretty sure that he would have promised anything at that point if it meant getting out of the house for a little bit.
"I am going to hold you to those words," Snape promised as he reached out and tapped the boy's knee lightly. "Would you like some more ice cream for your throat?"
Harry nodded as he smiled at his guardian. Sometimes he truly could not understand how he could act like such a brat and Snape still took care of him and made sure he was happy. He silently swore to himself that somehow, one day he would make it all up to the man.
TBC...