Chapter 35

His hands were shaking.

This is it. He will finally become Harry James Potter-Prince and marry the first and only love of his life. There really was no backing out. From this day forward, he and Severus will become one in mind, body, and soul. Marriage in the magical world constitutes a lifetime, a complete bonding, and Harry had no doubts of being bonded to Severus.

Harry was already in his white tux, hair applied with as many charms Hermione could perform. He was pacing across the room, a habit when he's anxious. Glancing at the time, Harry found he had two hours left to wait, way too long in his opinion. Hermione had already taken a handsomely dressed Sebastian to his other father while Ron, his best man, was pulled away by a frantic Molly, ordering him to greet the guests.

So, Harry was left alone inside the room anxiously waiting to be called out for the ceremony to begin. He kept on repeating his vows over and over again, fearing he might forget it on the altar. Oh, what a tragedy that would be. Severus will no doubt skin him alive for the mere embarrassment.

A knock stopped him from pacing, expecting it to be Hermione or Kate about to reprimand him for messing up his hair again. But instead of either woman, Harry was surprised to hear an unfamiliar deep, masculine voice call his name from behind the door.

Harry quickly walked to the door and opened it, shocked to see the tall, slimmer figure of his cousin.

"Dudley?" asked a dazed Harry, still holding the doorknob in one hand.

Dudley managed to send him a small smile and a nod. Harry shook his head lightly in an attempt to bring back his focus. It had been more than 5 years since he saw his cousin, and had only heard the news of him the few letters his cousin secretly sent him the first year through their old neighbor Arabella Figg. It was how Harry knew Dudley entered the military.

Harry immediately let his only cousin inside the room. While he was aware of Dudley's attendance, he had not expected him to come see him in person.

"How did you know I was here?" asked Harry as they moved further into the room.

"Your friend with the bushy hair told me," replied Dudley.

"So..." said Dudley awkwardly, "You're getting married to a bloke, eh?" His cousin didn't look surprised or disturbed that Harry was gay, much less marrying a man, perhaps because Dudley did not exactly know the said man was twice his age.

Harry could not help but chuckle. "Yes, I guess I am. How have you been, Dud?"

The man half-shrugged, "Alright. I left home a few years ago, joined the military. Mum and dad got worse after we left Privet Drive... I never really did apologize for how I treated you when we were younger." Dudley lowered his eyes, his voice a little vulnerable but his posture still stiff, perhaps due to his training.

Harry walked over and placed his hand on his cousin's shoulder, "I've already forgiven you, Dudley. Thanks for coming today."

"Thank you for inviting me. I know you did not have to."

The groom waved his hand dismissively, "You're the only relative I have left who won't throw away the invitation at first sight, of course, I'd invite you."

Dudley gave him a soft smile and took a small box from his breast pocket. It was the size of a large ring box and had a black velvet case. "I found this in mum's closet. I think it's supposed to be yours. It had your mum's name on it." He handed the small box to Harry who in turn received it with much reverence.

When Harry opened the small container, a gasp escaped his lips. In it was the most beautiful emerald brooch he had ever seen. He was even more astonished when he turned it over as it had a small engraving of the letters JL.

It was his mum's. Harry finally had something from his own mother. He hadn't noticed the few tears falling from his eyes as he stared at the object in his palms.

Harry quickly wiped his face, grimacing as he accidentally ruined his pristine white sleeves. He pulled out his wand and cast a cleaning charm on it, startling his cousin.

"Sorry, I forgot you aren't used to seeing magic... but thank you for this, Dudley. It means a lot to me," said Harry sincerely. bringing the brooch close to his heart.

The man stood and offered his hand, "Here, let me put that on you."

Harry thought he might have reached his quota of surprises in the past few minutes. Nodding quietly, he handed the emerald brooch to his cousin and let him pin it on his tux lapel.

Harry softly touched the stone and smiled. "Thank you, Dud."

Dudley, who used to be such a talker, only smiled in response before going back to his seat.

"So, who is this lucky guy you're marrying?" asked Dudley after a short silence.

Harry took out his wallet and showed him a photo of his family, taken on Sebastian's third birthday. "This is Severus. He's a potions master, that's like a chemist or a pharmacist in the muggle world... and that's our son, Sebastian. He's three years old."

Dudley's eyes went wide, "I have a nephew?" but then quickly backpedaled, "Not that I assumed I'd be allowed to spend time with him or anything..."

Harry sent him a gentle look and said, "You are allowed to spend time with Sebastian, and yes, he is your nephew. Just don't tell him tales from your military exploits or else he'll have nightmares for days."

"Got it! I'm not planning to, anyway. It's not for little ears. I didn't know men like you who can do magic can get pregnant... or was he adopted? Sorry..." asked his cousin sheepishly but no longer fearing of being scolded for using the word magic.

Harry shook his head and placed his wallet back in his breast pocket.

"No, Sebastian isn't adopted. While wizards don't usually get pregnant, I was hit by an unknown spell that did it. My son is the first and perhaps the one to be born out of a male, at least in the last few hundreds of years," explained Harry in very simple words.

"That's amazing!" exclaimed Dudley. "But does that mean you won't be having any more? I thought you wanted to have three?"

Harry sputtered, "How did you know?" He was truly curious as to how his cousin knew of his wishes. Harry never told the Dursleys anything!

"One time, in 5th-grade homeroom, our teacher asked if we wanted to have a family in the future. It was the only time I remember you participating in class and told the teacher you wanted to have three kids so they'd have someone to play with and protect each other. I even laughed at you back then, but now..."

Dudley didn't even need to finish his sentence as his expression was enough to tell Harry of his regrets.

"I can't even remember that," mused Harry. "Well, we can always have surrogacy. I may still have my three kids."

"Isn't your husband... partner?... a magic pharmacist? Can't he create a pill for that?" asked Dudley perceptively.

Harry had thought of that but didn't want to distract Severus from his ongoing project. He was already too busy from whatever St. Mungo's had him do and Harry wanted Severus to also be able to relax. And Harry was not sure it was even possible. If it was, then why hasn't anyone done anything like that before?

But boy, was it a vision to carry his own child again. The mere feel of Sebastian kicking on his guts and bladder had him smile.

"Perhaps in the future, Dud. We'll still have to look it up if it's possible," smiled Harry sadly.

They did not have the chance to finish their discussion when someone dashed inside the room. Harry snapped his head towards the door while Dudley was instantly on his feet, instinctively shielding his cousin from whatever came inside.

The protection wasn't needed. It was only a panting Ron. Harry's best man took a minute to calm himself and then straightened his suit.

"Who's this?" asked Ron unashamedly, determinedly assessing Dudley. They were almost of the same height, a few inches taller than Harry.

Harry moved in front of his cousin and gestured, "Ron, this is Dudley, you know, my cousin."

Ron's eyes went wide before turning into a glare. "Why is he here?!"

Dudley knew better than to speak for himself. He knew Harry's friends don't and probably will never like him for what he's done to Harry when they were younger.

"Easy, Ron. Dudley and I are good now. Stop glaring!" Harry rolled his eyes and playfully punched the red hair's shoulder. "What got you rushing in here anyway?"

"Mum wants me to tell you you're up in fifteen minutes," informed Ron, looking down on his watch.

"Shit." Harry quickly dashed in front of the mirror and rechecked himself, making sure his hair wasn't the usual mess that it was and his suit flawless.

Finding himself acceptable, he turned to the two men with him and smiled nervously, "This is it, then?"

Ron gave him an impish grin while Dudley smiled and nodded.

With a sigh and all the Gryffindor courage he could muster, Harry stepped out of the room followed by Ron and his cousin. The event would be held in the middle of the Oakwood garden, closed off for the day for the bonding of its owner and his lover.

The moment he saw the garden from afar, Harry was more than astonished at how Molly and the rest of the Oakwood staff who were familiar with the magical world had done the place.

It was quite a gloomy afternoon, totally opposite to what he was feeling. From a distance, he could see the white garden chairs complimenting the natural colors of the garden around them, their guests standing in wait for Harry. It was beginning to get dark and the fairy lights wrapped around the trees were shining brightly.

He couldn't see Severus from the litter of people but he knew the man was already waiting for him on the altar, probably looking dashing as ever in his black muggle-mixed-magical suit. He initially did not want to walk down the aisle like some bride but after thinking how wonderful it would feel to have Severus right there waiting for him, he decided to go for it.

Hermione was waiting for him by the side where a partition wall separated them from the crowd. She had Sebastian with her and when the little boy saw his father, he immediately squealed and ran to him.

"Hello, darling," said Harry, kissing the top of Sebastian's head. He then turned to the other three people with him and nodded.

Dudley wished him the best before heading off to sit somewhere in the back. Ron clapped him on the back and said, "See you there, mate," before also heading off but straight to the front. Harry could hear the soft playing of the violin and the chatters among the guests.

"Good luck, Harry," whispered Hermione and leaning over to kiss him on the cheek. She then guided the little boy to the start of the aisle and instructed Sebastian to begin walking down. With a last glance to his daddy and a toothy grin, Sebastian staggered off to his papa, causing a few chuckles and giggles from the guests.

This was really it, thought Harry. With a huge breath, Harry began slowly walking. The song began to change, a soft melody of the muggle song, Make It with You. Quite fitting, smiled Harry.

All the nervousness and anxiety instantly vanished the moment he saw Severus standing and waiting. There he was, on the same white two-step platform, all handsome and proudly standing with one hand on their son's shoulder. Harry had not heard the chatter turning into silence when he entered. All his attention was to the two people in front. Harry felt his eyes starting to moisten as he and Severus locked each other in a gaze, so intense it had him forget they were not alone.

In what felt like a thousand years, Harry finally took the last step towards the love of his life, never removing the gaze.

They were only brought back to reality when Amelia Bones, their Minister, cleared her throat to get the two men's attention, making the rest of the guest laugh.

"We are gathered here today to witness the bonding of two of the most unexpected people in the world, Harry James Potter and Severus Tobias Snape." Amelia began.

Severus glanced at Harry and cannot help but indulge him in a smile reserved when they're alone. Their son was standing happily beside his parents, not really understanding the events but was still joyous to see the beautiful lights and his papa and daddy standing in the middle.

"The rings, please," ordered the Minister. Ron quickly fumbled in his breast pocket while Sam, Severus' best man, already handed the ring to Severus.

"There! Phew," sighed Ron in relief before also handing the bonding ring to his best friend who rolled his eyes at him in mirth. Ron was lucky not to have lost the ring or he would have to experience the wrath of Severus and Harry, not to mention his own mother!

With a ring on each other's palms, Amelia continued, "These bonding rings are emblems of love through time, a symbol of devotion and commitment. Harry, you may start."

Harry gulped and nervously chuckled, holding Severus' hand in front of all their family and friends. The man merely looked at him expressionless but Harry could see the love in Severus' eyes. That alone was enough to get him going.

"No one who knew you and me when I was still in Hogwarts and you a professor would have guessed we'll end up right here, right now. You and I were like oil and water, not a day passed when you do not take points or scowl at me or I annoy you and destroy your lab.

But now, standing here, all those were like a lifetime away. I was lucky enough to have known you for exactly who you are under that dark, angry persona you keep putting on.

And I am awfully thankful that you decided to give this, us, a chance the moment you found me and Seb. I honestly thought you would have sneered at me and left us alone. That would have been anyone's guess considering our past. But no, you are the most incredible father, the most amazing companion, and I am sure the most wonderful of a husband as well.

I vow never to hex you or curse you even when you're being infuriating. I vow to grovel and apologize every time I say things that I don't mean. I really am known for saying things out of place. I vow to keep my annoying habits and incessant chattering to a bare minimum. I vow never to leave you angry and always look back when I am. I promise to love you forever as I love you now.

I've been through countless unusual, shocking, impossible feats, but this one is my favorite. You and our son are my favorite. And I would be honored to spend the rest of my life with you, hopefully without being skinned alive or turned into potions ingredients at some point."

When Harry finished his vow, and their guests softly laughing throughout, Severus brought his hand up to caress Harry's cheek.

"Harry, my Harry... you have always been full of surprises. The moment you let me into yours and Sebastian's life was the best thing that could have ever happened to someone like me.

Merlin knows what you loved in me, I had the heart of a stone, a perpetual sneer on my face, and not to mention this nose. I was the dungeon bat of Hogwarts, the same person who made you life hell for years. But I know better now than to judge your tastes. You seem to have a good sense of character, judging by the friends you keep.

You are the most forgiving, kind, compassionate person I had the fortune to meet. Even after all the years I caused you pain, you still saved me during the battle, you made sure I was properly taken care of, you sent me Christmas presents without expecting anything in return. You invited me for tea when I accidentally arrived in your shop. You took me in when I decided to move halfway across the world.

You are my life, my love, my future. I will endeavor never to turn you into potions ingredients, as you eloquently put it, or to ever skin you alive. That would lose the sense of having every chance to touch you. I promise to always consider you and our family first and foremost, to follow wherever you go, to finally free myself of the image I wrapped myself with.

You are the missing piece in my life, and when you and Sebastian came, everything fell to its place. Everything suddenly made sense, all those times I had to suffer trying to save you. All those times I thought I was too hated to be loved, all those were preambles to something better, you. I will love you forever as I love you now."

Of course, with Harry's emotional capacity, he hadn't stopped the tears escaping his eyes. It took all of him not to grab the man and kiss him fully right then.

Their guests also had not eluded a few tears and sighs at the stern ex-professor and potions master's public declaration of love. While it was normal for Harry to hear Severus tell him he loves him as he does that almost every day, everyone else hadn't. Severus was still as private as he was before, only allowing a few smiles and small kisses to go between them when they're around people. When Severus proudly proclaimed his love for Harry, it was a wonder how different the man had become.

"By the powers that be, I pronounce you bonded in body, mind, and soul," said Amelia Bones with a smile. "You may kiss."

Severus instantly pulled Harry and dipped him back to kiss his new husband thoroughly making everyone cheer and whistle. Sebastian giggled beside them especially when the two sets of twins shot out confetti poppers.

Severus pulled away and picked their son up to settle him on his hip between him and Harry. Turning to their guests, Severus pressed a soft kiss on top of Sebastian's head while Harry kissed Severus' cheek, a beautiful moment captured by their hired photographer.

Their reception was held only a minute walk from the wedding venue, looking almost like a wonderland. Under a very big tree were falling rain lights above a number of tables and chairs on a wooden platform set up just for the event. The full moon shone brightly on them, completing the rustic look.

They did not have much guests to begin with. The Weasleys were there and so were their partners, the Hogwarts staff, Harry's old schoolmates, their friends from Australia, Severus' very few colleagues from work, the surviving members of the Order, and Dudley Dursley, the only muggle in attendance.

"Dudley!" called Harry. His cousin was stiffly standing by a tree a few feet from the crowd, watching the same people his aunt warned Dudley throughout his childhood interact like normal humans. It had been more than an hour since they started the party and it was the first time Harry saw his cousin since before the ceremony.

Dudley was startled by the sudden call of his name and went to move closer to Harry. He could see the figure of Harry's new husband coming over from behind his cousin as well.

Harry felt Severus' presence before he saw him and turned his head back. "Oh good, you're here. I'd like you to meet my cousin Dudley. Dud, this is Severus."

Putting his arm around Harry's waiste, Severus plastered the all too familiar sneer on his face as he distastefully regarded Harry's bully of a cousin. Harry already told him of his cousin's surprising visit and the wonderful gift he brought. He found he had no right to be mad at the man who was undoubtedly trying to mend bridges when he too used to bully Harry.

But Severus was still Severus even when he's all wrapped up in cakes and flowers.

Dudley was becoming quite affected by the stares he received from the other guests especially those who knew of his behavior towards Harry but he learned to stand strong and face the consequences of his actions, something he should have learned earlier.

Harry noticed his cousin's change in demeanor and quickly jabbed Severus on the ribs, "You promised to be civil!" he hissed.

The new husband glowered and rubbed his aching sides before turning back to Dudley with an expressionless face. "Well then, it is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Dursley."

Harry rolled his eyes and glanced apologetically to his cousin. "I'm sorry about his attitude. He's just a mean git."

Severus grunted but did not deny the allegations. There really was no point as he was admittedly a git to begin with. But still, his new husband could have just kept mum.

"Anyway," clapped Harry cheerfully, "Severus, would you be a dear and get Sebastian. I want him to meet his uncle."

Severus snapped his head so abruptly it almost felt like a whiplash. He managed to erect a quick muffliato before grabbing Harry by the shoulders, not caring if the muggle was right in front of them.

"Are you crazy?! You're going to let him meet our son?" implored Severus seriously. "Do you think that is wise?!"

Harry wiggled out of Severus' hold and glared at him. "Yes, I think it is wise. I told you before and I will tell you again now. Dudley is no longer the same bully that he was. Just like you are no longer the same professor who made my life hell. He will never do anything to hurt Sebastian. Can't you trust me on this?"

The sound of Harry's voice at the last line coupled with the reminder of his own past transgressions and his chance to remedy it was enough for Severus to deflate. He stepped back and dropped his arms to his side.

Nevertheless, if Harry suggests Sebastian spend time with his muggle uncle, Severus would have to cast as many protection charms as he can.

"I apologize. Of course, Harry, I do trust you. I know you won't let anything happen to our son." Severus then stepped forward again and brushed his finger over Harry's nose as an endearment and apology, refusing to indulge their guest in another round of snogging session with his husband.

Severus put down the spell and informed Harry, "I will go look for the menace." before glancing at Dudley Dursley with a neutral but less threatening expression.

Without another world, Severus swept away from the two younger men to find Sebastian. He may have to subtly suggest to his son to be careful and be mindful around the new man.

After finding his son coddled and cooed at by Ginny Weasley and her girlfriend, Greengrass, Severus took Sebastian back to Harry and Harry's cousin.

"There he is!" grinned Harry widely, opening his arms to let Sebastian dash in.

Sebastian was instantly in his daddy's arms, peering at the stranger with them. Severus was standing in place only a few feet away, watching the events unfold with much scrutiny.

"Seb, darling, this is my cousin Dudley, your muggle uncle," introduced the proud father. "Dudley, this is Sebastian Eli Potter-Prince."

Dudley had a genuine smile on his face at the sight of Sebastian. He bent a little and waved his hand to the boy making his nephew smile shyly and wave back.

"Hello, little one," said Dudley softly. His little nephew looked so much like Harry it was almost frightening.

Dudley really liked children especially after being sent out to Afghanistan his third year in the army. He and the rest of his squad were tasked to save a local orphanage from aerial bomb attack.

Sebastian smiled adorably at Dudley. "Hello, Uncle Lee," replied the boy softly, going in for another nickname as he always had trouble remembering and speaking names.

Dudley found he liked being called Uncle Lee and gave the boy a tiny wink. He was grateful not to have ignored Harry's invitation or else he might not have his chance to remedy his relationship with his only cousin and even get to be an uncle.

Severus watched as Harry's cousin smiled and patiently conversed with his little prince. While it was not technically ethical, he faintly legilimized the man, trying to discern what his intentions were to his husband and his son.

And what he found was both comforting and somber. This Dudley Dursley was just another mistreated boy craving for acceptance and forgiveness.

With a small sigh, he left the trio to talk and get to know each other, choosing to go back to the rest of their guest who may or may have not noticed their disappearance. He still had a conversation to finish with Bill Weasley anyway. And he supposed he had a honeymoon in less than two hours to get ready for, all while the male-preganancy potion was safely tucked inside his breast pocket.


A/N: Yay! Harry and Severus are finally married! How is it so far? Thank you for the positive reviews, the favorites, and the follows!