Once Upon a Train, a harry potter fanfic

The train had been delayed in leaving the station and all Harry wanted to do was find his cabin and go to sleep. It had been a long day, a long weekend really.

Two of his dearest friends had just got married in Scotland, the wedding had been spectacular the bride looking stunning he had even found a guest or two to perve on while watching the happy couple spin round the dance floor.

Thinking it wouldn't be a problem to book his return trip back to London, there'd be plenty of room on the train, Harry left it until the last minute, hence how he ended up taking the overnight train back home.

Neville and Hannah had insisted on seeing him to the station before leaving for their honeymoon, despite Harry's protestations that he was fine.

Draining the last of his beer, Harry dug the ticket from the depth of his jeans pocket and set off in search of his cabin for the next 8 hours.

Severus set his bag on the bed and opened the zip; from it he took his toiletry bag and his nightwear. Going into the bathroom he turned on the shower and stepped in under the warm spray.

Scotland was a beautiful part of the world, but the trip had been draining, thankfully it was over and he wouldn't have to go back for some time to come.

He and his daughter Sophie could now live in peace, Severus could finally be who he truly was a gay 43-year-old man with an 8-year-old daughter.

Her mother was now buried in Edinburgh, a neighbour had found her unconscious in her home, the Edinburgh Police had contacted him to come and identify the body.

One night he had let his guard down and ended up in bed with Fiona a month later she tracked him down and told him she was pregnant with his baby.

Being the smart man he was Severus demanded a paternity to test to ensure he was in fact the father.

When the results came back to say that indeed it was his child, Severus told Fiona he would be there when the child was born and offer whatever support was necessary, little did he know at the time that Fiona was a drug addict.

When Sophie was born she spent weeks in intensive care unit being weaned off the drugs she was exposed to in the womb. Fiona left the hospital just hours after the birth, not even asking how her daughter was.

Severus didn't hear from her again after that day, until the Scottish authorities contacted him, they found his name in an address book.

Harry wandered along the very narrow corridor looking at the numbers on the cabin doors, on the right hand side he saw the cabin he was looking for, slinging his bag over his shoulder Harry opened the door.

Turning the water off and getting out of the shower, Severus looked around for a towel, figuring he had left it on the bed walked out of the small bathroom stark naked and dripping wet.

Harry shut the door behind him and looked up to see a tall, slim man; with shoulder length black hair and dark eyes buck naked gaping at him.

'Who the hell are you?' Severus shouted immediately covering his private bits, looking around for a towel

'The person whose cabin you're standing naked in' Harry replied trying to avert his gaze, but failing miserably what an appendage! He thought licking his lips

'This is my cabin' Severus bit out grabbing the towel from the bed; he had spotted out the corner of his eye and wrapping it around his waist.

Harry looked again at his ticket and was absolutely mortified to learn that the naked man was right he had the wrong cabin.

'I am so sorry Sir' Harry stressed 'I do indeed have the wrong cabin, I will leave you to get dressed' he backed out of the room with as much grace as he could muster, not daring to look the disgruntled man in the eye.

Safely in the corridor Harry inspected the number on his ticket again and realised he had come two doors too far, heading back the way he'd come, he found the right cabin, and after making doubly sure there weren't any naked men or women roaming about, he went inside and deftly locked the door.

Slumping down on the bed, Harry sighed heavily, closing his eyes and trying to conjure up an image of that impressive tool the naked man was sporting. That was something to be proud of Harry mused.

The door locked tightly Severus proceeded to get dressed, muttering to himself about idiots who couldn't read, he had to admit though it was flattering to see a young man taken by his appearance, if the licking of lips and forest green eyes roaming over his form were any indication. He walked with a bit of a swagger back into the bathroom.

'It really isn't that funny' Harry grumbled, the next morning over breakfast with his two friends

'No it isn't Harry I'm sorry it's hilarious' Angie doubled over holding her sides

'I'm glad my life is a source of amusement' he scoffed, stabbing a piece of bacon and shoving it in his mouth.

'Did you at least get your moneys worth?' George winked; absolutely nothing was off limits where he was concerned

'Angie do something about your husband, I am starting to worry which side he is really on' Harry said with mirth

'It's alright Harry you don't have to tell anyone, you can tell me tomorrow at work' she said in a low voice

Harry was a librarian at the village library in Hertfordshire and Angie worked with him. His love of books had led him to take that career path when he had finished college.

George owned and ran a lolly shop in the high street. He and Angie lived not far from Harry. The weekend past had been a holiday weekend, so he wasn't due back at school until the next day.

'I'm home Severus called out as he hung his coat on the hook by the door and walked through to the kitchen.

His daughter and his sister were sitting at the table, Sophie was swirling her spoon round in her porridge and Nora was sipping her tea and reading the paper.

'Papa' Sophie shrieked jumping off her chair and launching herself into Severus' arms.

'Hello angel, did you miss me?' Severus asked peppering his daughters face with kisses.

'Yes, lots' Sophie grinned, running her hand over Severus' unshaved face 'you have whiskers papa'

'Papa will have a shave later' he informed his daughter, who wriggled out of his embrace and back to her breakfast.

'How was it?' Nora asked leaving Sophie at the table

'Gut wrenching' Severus answered 'but it's over now and we can get on with our lives, no more wondering what became of her'

'You did all you could Sev' Nora said kindly 'sit down and I'll make you a cuppa'

'Thanks Nory' Severus said affectionately using the pet name he had called his sister when they were younger.

After breakfast Nora took Sophie to the park while Severus got a couple of hours sleep, after the unexpected guest in his cabin the night before, he hadn't gotten a whole lot of shut eye.

'Hello Harry a little girl greeted Harry the next morning

'Morning Sophie, how are you?' Harry smiled

'Good' she replied making a beeline for the small chairs in the children's section of the library, leaving the woman she was with lingering behind.

Harry shook his head, they were like mini tornadoes here one minute gone the next. Sophie Snape was a bundle of energy, happy and bubbly she had the darkest eyes Harry had ever seen, they were almost black.

'I see Sophie just blew in' Angie chuckled coming out of the office

'Quick as a flash' Harry laughed 'I wonder if she sleeps?'

'Don't know, but if she does I wouldn't mind a dose of whatever she has' Angie said wistfully

'Wouldn't we all' Harry answered

Can you give me a rough description of what the man looked like?' Severus asked the distraught woman sitting at his desk

'I think so' she sniffled 'it happened so fast'

Severus handed her a tissue before opening his sketchpad and taking his pencil from the desk. For the past 15 years he had worked as a freelance sketch artist for the London Police Service, he was also an illustrator for many children's books, this meant he could work from home a lot of the time and be there for Sophie.

'Whenever you're ready' Severus said kindly 'take your time'

'He had wavy hair, a squarish sort of face, he had a scar down the left side of his nose' the lady began to describe the man who had attacked her as Severus sketched quickly beside her.

'He wore a stud in his left ear, his lips were very thin' she continued 'oh and very thick eyebrows'

Severus sketched, as the woman continued to describe the man in question, when he was finished the woman was certain that it was the man who had attacked her.

She hadn't been the first, there had been a spate of random attacks on women in the park of late, and from the description it was the same man each time, only varying slightly.

'I will show this to the Detectives that are looking after your case, they will get it circulated around and hopefully the man will be caught' Severus consoled her

'Thank you very much' the woman said tearfully 'you have been very kind'

'My pleasure Ma'am' Severus smiled 'I will show you out'

'So did you get your moneys worth?' Angie asked in a whispered voice as Harry sorted out the books that had been returned

'You and George both have one track minds' Harry shook his head 'but yes, definitely worth an encore'

'That good' Angie eyed him

'Oh yeah' Harry replied the image of the naked man forming very nicely in his mind

'Look how many books I have today Mr Harry' an excited voice interrupted him

Harry looked over the counter and saw Sophie piling her books in front of him, her card clutched tightly in her hand 'This will keep you busy for a few days' he smiled

'Maybe two' Sophie replied matter of factly

'I see' Harry chuckled taking the card and putting it under the scanner

Sophie put them carefully into her library bag, and she and the lady she was with waved them goodbye and left the library.

'She is the loveliest girl' Angie countered

'Little cutie' Harry agreed 'I should have told them about story time on Saturday'

'Way ahead of you my friend, I sent out an email to our clients that have children, Sophie's parents should have got one' Angie informed him

'You are a wonderful woman' Harry said

'Tell me something I don't know' Angie replied

Sophie had been wiggling in her seat for the past 10 minutes and it was beginning to drive Severus to distraction. She was pushing her broccoli around her plate, while she chewed her sausage.

'Soph you can please sit still and eat your dinner?' Severus asked calmly

'I don't like brocli Papa' Sophie scowled ' I want to go and read my books'

'Pretend it's ice cream and eat it, you can read your books after you've finished dinner and had your bath' Severus replied

'Yes Papa' she muttered stabbing her broccoli forcefully with her fork and shoving a piece in her mouth.

'Good girl' Severus said suppressing a grin at his daughter's facial expressions

When Sophie was tucked up in bed and Severus had read two stories from the library bag, he went into his office and checked his emails.

Most of them were work related, one was from the village library about story time on Saturday, and he wasn't working so he thought he might take Sophie along. It had been ages since he'd been to the library or even read a book.

Sending a few replies Severus went out into the living room and switched on the TV and settled in to watch a re run of a British comedy show about workers in a department store.

'Shit gonna blow' the man currently inside Harry grunted, he Angie and George had been out for dinner and listened to a band playing at the local pub, said drummer of the band had just slipped out of Harry and was disposing of the condom.

'That was great, we should do that again sometime?' the man panted searching for his pants

'Yeah' Harry answered distractedly 'I'll show you out'

After the man had gone Harry jumped in the shower, as the nights activities washed away, his mind turned to the naked man on the train, the only way he'd been able to get it up tonight was by bringing the man and his very impressive cock in his mind. Drummer boy wasn't doing it for him that was for sure.

Harry hated the casual encounters he had; he wanted to settle down find someone to share his life with, not just his bed for a couple of hours.

His dick twitched with interest now of tall, dark and handsome, Harry ran his hand over his hardening member, imagining it was the stranger on his knees, languidly fisting his cock, Harry lent back against the wall, enjoying the sensation coursing through his body.

The more he pictured the naked man the harder he pumped, until he emptied his seed all over the shower floor, watching as it vanished down the drain. A quick rinse and Harry hopped out of the shower and dried off, put on pants and a shirt. He went into his kitchen and out the kettle on. His phone sounded in the living room, he went in and picked it up off the coffee table. It was Angie

Was he worthy of an encore?

I'm asking for my money back

I expect all the juicy details tomorrow

Night Angie xx

Night stud xx

Harry put the phone down and went back into the kitchen to make his tea, settling in front of the TV he idly flicked through the channels until he found a crime show he liked.

'These look really good Sev' a man in his fifties told him

'Glad you like them, Sophie approved' Severus smiled

'Well if we have Soph's approval then it will be a sure fire hit' the man laughed heartily

Severus and the author of the book were currently standing in the office looking over the illustrations he'd finished before he went to Scotland.

The book was about a boy who finds and enchanted door that takes him on many adventures. Severus had enjoyed mapping out the illustrations for this book, choosing bright colours and tones.

'Would you like a coffee?' Severus asked the man

'Yes please that would be wonderful' the man replied setting the sketches back on the desk and following Severus out into the kitchen.

'Everything go alright in Scotland?' the man asked carefully

Severus turned and looked at the man sitting on one of his bench stools. 'I am just glad it's all over Tim' he remarked 'Sophie and I can finally get on with our lives'

'That's good' Tim replied 'you know I'm here if you need to vent or just chat'

'I know' Severus smiled wanly 'thank you'

'Bev wants to know when Sophie's going to visit?' he asked changing the subject

'I can bring her around next week' Severus answered 'or you and Bev could come for dinner'

'I'll ask her and let you know' Tim smiled

Tim wasn't just the Author whose books Severus did the illustrations for, he and his wife Bev were dear friends, besides Nora, they had been the only ones to offer him help when Sophie had been born and spent all those months in hospital.

Bev cooked him meals that he could freeze Nora cleaned the house. Tim and Henry (Nora's husband) took care of the yard work, mowing the lawns, wedding the garden, and building a fairy garden for Sophie.

They sat with him at the hospital day in and day out, waiting for the news that Sophie could come home. Bev and Nora set up the nursery, painting it in a soft green, a rocking chair in the corner and an array of stuffed animals in the other.

But most of all they were just there, there to listen, to lend a shoulder for Severus to cry on, there to make sure he ate at least one meal a day, sat with the baby while he got a few minutes of fresh air.

Celebrated with him when the Doctors and specialists told him there would be no long terms affects to Sophie's exposure to the drugs in Fiona's system, that within the next fortnight she could finally go home after 6 long and gruelling months.

They were there when at the age of four Sophie started asking about her mother, and Severus had to tell her the hard truth, and again when the authorities contacted him saying that Fiona had been found dead from an overdose.

His precious little angel had taken it all in her stride, quite content with the family she had around her, she loved Severus dearly and he doted on her, she was his life, his reason for getting out of bed everyday.

'It was really that bad?' Angie asked the next morning

'Yep, he was definitely a minute man' Harry said wryly

'God if George was like that I would divorce him immediately' Angie cringed

'I'd give anything to have what you and George have' Harry replied wistfully

'There is someone out there for you Harry' Angie said gently 'Don't give up'

'I wont I promise' Harry smiled 'Still on for squash tonight?'

'I think you mean am I on for beating your scrawny butt tonight?' Angie chuckled 'Yes Sir I am'

'I was under the weather' Harry stated

'All 8 times?' Angie laughed loudly 'Better see a Dr about that'

'Cheat' Harry mumbled

'What was that?' Angie raised a brow

'Didn't say a word' Harry feigned innocence

He went over to the children's section to choose the stories for Saturday mornings story time, he really loved reading to the kids, and they were always so excited for story time.

Depending on the numbers Harry some times let one of the kids select the story to read, it didn't happen all that often.

Too many arguments broke out as a result. The last time he elected a child to choose, the parents got into it and had to be removed from the library. It was a continuing war between the families apparently; their kids didn't get along.

He chose Stellaluna, Giraffes can't dance and Lion in the Library. Putting them behind the counter ready for the weekend, Harry got on with cataloguing some of the new books that had arrived that morning; Angie was over returning books to their shelves.

A portly man stuck his head round the door of the office Severus used when he was the police station.

'There has been another attack, lady is on her way in to give you a description' the man said sombrely

'How many is that now?' Severus asked grimly

'This one makes 6' the officer frowned 'really need to catch this mongrel'

'Yes we do' Severus muttered, getting the sketchpad and pencils ready for the next victim.

He took from his drawer the recent sketches that the 5 previous victims had given him; he would show the lady these first see if there were any similarities to the man that had attacked her.

Severus let out a small gasp when the victim came into the room escorted by one of the officers; she couldn't have been more than 15 years old.

Harry bent over and rested his hands on his knees, trying to get his breathing under control, he loved to play a sport of some description and squash was something he enjoyed, but after going 5 rounds with Angie, he was absolutely knackered.

The woman showed no mercy on the court, making Harry work for every shot. George happily sat back and watched the horror unfold, he was all too aware of his wife's talents and wisely spectated.

'Under the weather again?' Angie jibed

'Shut up' Harry panted 'one of these days Weasley I am going to kick your arse on that court'

'By the time that day rolls round you will be too old' Angie laughed 'one more game?'

'Sod off' Harry muttered plonking down on the seat next to George 'your wife is a maniac'

'On and off the court' George winked

'Over sharing' Harry grimaced 'I'm going home'

He limped out to his car and got in groaning and grunting in pain, 5 minutes later he was home and standing under a scorching hot shower.

'Come on Papa' Sophie said excitedly undoing her seatbelt and opening the car door

'Hang on a minute Soph' Severus told his bouncing child 'Stay near the car until I get out'

It was Saturday morning and they had just arrived at the library for story time, Sophie had been chomping at the bit to come, she had been up very early that morning asking Severus every 5 minutes when it was going to be time to leave.

Locking the car he took his daughters hand and they crossed the road and waked up the small steps into the library. Sophie was close to dragging Severus along, she was moving so rapidly.

Harry fussed about getting the children's section ready for story time at 10am, he had his chair all ready, a few for parents if they decided to sit with their kids, while the stories were being read.

Over by the counter Angie was setting up a coffee and teacart, in case the parents wanted to enjoy some peace while the kids were being entertained.

Sitting the books on the floor beside the chair, Harry went to greet some of the parents and children that were coming into the library.

'Wipe your feet Papa' Sophie instructed 'Mr Harry doesn't like dirt on his carpet'

Severus complied and wiped his feet on the mat provided outside the door, Sophie was jumping about, getting more impatient by the second. Finally her father was ready and they went inside.

'Hi Mr Harry' Sophie called out 'this is my Papa'

'Hello Sophie how a… Harry froze on the spot his mouth gaping like a fish out of water, standing in front of him with an amused look on his face was none other than tall, dark and handsome naked man from the train, his eyes dropped straight to the mans crotch, and he could see said man trying to suppress a laugh.

'Nice too meet you' Harry stammered 'There is coffee and tea over by the counter if you would like some, or feel free to sit and listen to the stories with Sophie'

'Let's go and sit down Papa' Sophie said leading Severus over to the children's section.

Harry walked hurriedly into the office; Angie was sorting a few of the books out.

'You'll have to do story time' he muttered

'Why what's wrong?' Angie asked a little confused

'Tall, dark, handsome and naked man from train out there' Harry pointed to the door 'he's Sophie's father'

Angie snuck over to the door and peered out at the children's area, watching as Sophie chattered away to a tall man with black hair, wearing jeans and a casual polo shirt.

'Cute' Angie nodded turning to face Harry who had gone decidedly pale

'How can I possibly read stories to children when he is right there, and all I'll be thinking about is him naked' Harry worried

'Pray that no problems arise' Angie giggled

'Not helpful' Harry scoffed 'if you have any mercy in your soul you will go out there and do story time'

'Oh alright' Angie relented 'you owe me big for this Potter'

'Thank you I love you' Harry said gratefully

When Angie was gone Harry sat down heavily at the table and rested his head on the cool wood, he would have to move to another library, in the middle of London where random people who you had accidentally seen naked wouldn't come in with their child for story time.

'Where's Mr Harry?' Sophie asked when Angie came over and sat down on the chair Harry normally occupied

'Mr Harry isn't feeling very well' Angie replied 'So I am going to read the stories for him'

'Poor Mr Harry' Sophie said sympathetically

Once the story had begun and Sophie was settled listening intently, Severus got up and went over to the beverage cart, to make a cup of coffee and see if he could catch a glimpse of Mr Harry who walked into people cabins unannounced.

Harry had secreted himself down the far end of the office, where no one could see him, at least until the bell at the counter went and he had to go and tend to a customer.

Story time usually only ran for half and hour, so Harry just had to pray that it stayed quiet until everyone was gone.

Severus lingered around the cart and surrounding book shelves for a few minutes in the hope the shy man would poke his head out of whatever hole he was currently hiding in. he was quite good looking, in his late 20s Severus guessed, dark hair and forest green eyes.

Sophie always talked about Mr Harry, how nice he was, how he sometimes let her scan her library card herself, helped her to choose books to read if she couldn't find anything. Might have to come to the library more often, Severus mused as he went back over to his daughter.

'They are gone now, you can come out of hiding' Angie snickered when she came into the office half an hour later

Harry came out of the storeroom a sheepish grin on his face, double-checking that Angie was telling the truth and Sophie and her father weren't lurking in one of the isles somewhere.

'Of all the people to come in here, it had to be him' Harry countered 'why couldn't it be the lady that usually comes in with Sophie?'

'Maybe she had something on and couldn't make it' Angie pointed out

'Yes well she had no business not coming in' Harry huffed

'How old are you?' Angie asked giving Harry a questioning look

Harry poked his tongue out at Angie and went back out into the main part of the library, taking the returns from the basket and scanning them back into the computer.

A few people came in after that, some happy to wander around perusing the books, some asking to use the computers the library had. An elderly couple who had just moved to the village and were avid readers became members.

2pm came and Angie and Harry locked up and exited the library via the backdoor, staff could park their cars there and use the key to get in.

They were catching the train into the city to see George and have dinner, before going to a club one of George's customers had told him about.

Taking his car home, Harry changed and met Angie down the road; the station was only a short walk from where Harry lived.

'Looking to get lucky tonight?' Angie asked once they were on the train.

'No window shopping only tonight' Harry replied 'not even going to drink a whole lot'

'Wow you see a man in the buff once and it changes your whole life' Angie professed

'It isn't that' Harry lied 'I'm just sick of all the casual encounters I have, maybe it's time I looked at settling down'

'What if Mr right is at the club tonight and you let the opportunity pass?' Angie quizzed

'He isn't Mr right then is he?' Harry answered

'You're not even going to try something on see if it fits?' Angie questioned

'No' Harry said with finality

After dinner at a Mexican restaurant Harry, George and Angie went to the club George had heard about, it was called the Spot and it was rumoured to be the hottest club in the city. Paying the cover charge at the door, the bouncer let them inside, flashing lights hit Harry in the face when the entered the main area, no wonder it was called the spot, you literally had spots in front of your eyes. Neon seemed to be the theme of the interior; George and Angie were quite taken with the décor while Harry wanted to purchase some sunglasses.

True to his word Harry kept mostly to himself that evening, he danced a bit and there were men who tried to grind their way into his pants, Harry politely declining each time.

He danced with Angie a few times, come midnight he was ready for home. The other two wanted to party on, so Harry walked to the station and caught the train home.

By 1:30am he was tucked up in bed, proud that he had stuck to his guns and not ended up in some strange bed somewhere.

It was one week later and Severus was at the end of his tether, Harry had been on his mind ever since their encounter however brief at the library.

Try as he might to stop thinking about the handsome librarian, think about him was all he could do.

Deciding that he needed to take affirmative action, Severus went into Sophie's room one rainy Wednesday while she was at school in search of her library bag and to put some washing away in her drawers.

Finding it hanging inside her closet on a hook, he lifted one of the books out and opening said book and looking at the slip of paper that had the return date printed on it.

Excellent he internally cheered; the books were due back that coming Saturday, the perfect opportunity for a Father Daughter trip to the village library.

Placing the bag back on the hook and shutting the closet door, Severus put the clothes away and went back into his office.

Over dinner that night he casually asked his daughter if she would like to visit the library and borrow some new books. Sophie was thrilled with the idea of going, and seeing if Mr Harry was feeling better.

It had been a long week, Angie was out with the flu so it had just been Harry, and of course it had been the busiest week yet. The miserable weather hadn't helped either; everyone seemed to have the idea of cuddling up with a good book.

A playgroup had been in to use one of the larger rooms as centre of operations, the hall where they normally held the sessions had a burst pipe which had caused a flood.

For 2 hours Harry could the squeals of children between the ages of 0-3. The coordinators were very grateful and even brought Harry in a sponge cake as a thank you for loaning out the space.

Saturday morning rolled around and Harry prepared to open the doors. There was no story time this week, with Angie being away, Harry couldn't spare the time.

Picking up the return basket from under the slot near the door, Harry went back to the counter and began the process of checking the books back in.

'What sort of books do you think you might borrow today?' Severus asked Sophie over breakfast

'Ones about frogs' Sophie replied sitting her stuffed toy frog Fergus on the empty seat beside her

Sophie loved frogs, she had been fascinated with them from the time she was 3 years old. Nora had given her Fergus when she was 2, he went everywhere with her, and it seemed that today he was joining them when they went into the village.

'Any others or just Frogs?' Severus inquired

'Not sure' Sophie answered 'are you going to borrow a book Papa?'

'I might have a look and see if there's one I like' Severus told his daughter

'You have to get a card' she said

'I thought I could use yours' Severus smiled

'You can't use mine Papa, it has my name on it not yours' Sophie eyed him curiously 'Mr Harry can give you one'

'I'll have to ask Mr Harry then' Severus smirked 'Go and get dressed, brush your teeth and we will get going'

Sophie hopped down off the chair, snatched Fergus from his, put her plate in the sink and hurried up the stairs. For someone so small she certainly made a lot of noise.

Severus cleared the table, washed and dried the dishes, putting them back in their respective spots. He went in search of his daughter who hadn't reappeared from upstairs. Sophie was standing in front of her drawers asking Fergus what she should wear.

'Sophie Kate what am I going to do with you?' Severus chuckled coming into her room.

'I don't know' Sophie giggled, then shrieked when Severus scooped her up and peppered her face with kisses.

20 minutes later they were in the car and on their way into the village, Sophie happily chatting away to Fergus in the back seat. For reasons he would never admit to, Severus had butterflies in his stomach at the thought of seeing Harry again, he felt like a teenager it had been a long time since he had been one of those.

'So that's Thursday nights now from 6 until 8?' Harry repeated to the elderly woman on the other side of the counter.

'Yes that's right dear' the woman replied 'You are very kind to let us change the time and day like this'

'It's no trouble at all Mae' Harry smiled 'I can set up the beverage cart for you'

'You're a wonderful young man Harry' Mae gave him a warm smile

'Thanks Mae' Harry replied

The book club that Mae was president of had been holding their meetings at the library on a Tuesday long before Harry came to work there.

A couple of the members had taken up ballroom dancing on a Tuesday which conflicted with the meetings, so rather than be two members short, Mae offered the suggestion of changing the day, as such had come in that morning to ask Harry if it was possible.

It didn't bother him at all, he was usually the one that stayed behind, and he had nothing on, on Thursdays so it was fine.

Sophie rushed ahead of Severus as usual once they had crossed the road and waited by the automatic doors for her father, library bag in hand, Fergus tucked under her arm. They walked through the doors, Sophie heading straight for the children's section, giving her library bag to Severus as she went.

'Hi Mr Harry' Sophie waved as she went past the counter

'Hello Miss Sophie' Harry smiled, spying Severus out the corner of his eye

'Good Morning Harry' Severus said politely

'Good Morning' Harry answered his heart thudding in his chest

There was nowhere to go, he was the only one on duty and he had to serve them whether he wanted to or not. Taking a deep breath he continued checking the books, while Sophie perused the shelves for something of interest.

Severus sat at one of the small tables, emptying Sophie's library bag, on the back of the slip he scribbled his phone number and placed it back inside the book. Standing up he told his daughter where he would be, she gave a curt nod and went back discussing possible choices with Fergus.

'I am told that if I want to borrow a book I will need to acquire my own card' Severus countered, standing at the counter.

'I take it Sophie didn't want to share?' Harry chuckled

'Apparently only one name is allowed on the card' Severus mused

'Well we best see about getting you your own then' Harry replied 'if you fill out your details on this form, I will go and get your card'

Harry handed Severus the new member form and a pen, before darting into the office to grab one of the member cards. Holy Crap Harry thought as he located the cards on a shelf.

Tall, dark and very handsome is right out there! Pulling himself together he went back out to the counter and scanned the new card. Severus had completed the form and was waiting for Harry to return.

He deftly entered the details into the computer, feeling Severus' gaze on him the entire time. The man smelled absolutely delicious, it was a cross between lime and sandalwood. It was intoxicating; Harry could get high just from one whiff.

'There we are Mr Snape' Harry said handing him the card ' all done, now the isles are all labelled, you can use the computers at anytime, we have daily newspapers on the right hand side of the cooking section, you can borrow the books for up to 3 weeks and as many as you like any questions just ask'

'Thank you Harry' Severus said in a smooth tone, brushing his hand over Harry's as he took the proffered card. 'Please call me Severus'

'Papa look what I found' Sophie said in the quietest voice she could manage

Severus pulled the other books from the library bag and sat them on the counter; making sure to place the one he had left his number in on top, before walking over to Sophie.

'It's called I don't want to be a frog' Sophie announced showing Severus the book

'Very good love, I am going to have a look at some books, you stay there' Severus instructed his daughter

'Yes Papa' Sophie answered

Severus went over to the adult section of the library and read the signs on the front of the isles, choosing the crime shelf; Severus cast his eye over the rows of books, looking for anything that piqued his interest.

Harry opened the books that Sophie had returned, checking them for bookmarks and the like. It was astounding what some people left in their books. Especially adults, over the years he'd come across some rather interesting things in books from money, a bag of weed, condom wrapper (that book was instantly disposed of) shopping lists, love letters that were rather spicy, photos of two people in a very compromising position.

Seeing that the printed slip had been left in the front of the book, Harry was about to throw it out, when he saw a number scribbled on the back with the words use me written underneath. His breath catching in his throat, Harry shoved the note into his jeans pocket and scanned the book into the computer.

Sophie was sitting on one of the cushions looking through her books, when Severus came back over to her. He had found two books that looked like they would be interesting.

'Ready to go Angel?' Severus asked

'Yep, only got two books today' Sophie told him

'Lets go and borrow them shall we?' Severus offered his hand to his daughter

Walking over to the counter, Sophie placed her books on the counter and waited patiently for Harry to finish a phone call.

'What have we got today?' Harry asked warmly

'Books about Frogs' Sophie replied

'Frogs are great' Harry grinned 'Have you read the books about Filbert?'

'No' Sophie shook her head

'Well if you come with me I will show you where they are' Harry offered 'is that alright?' he looked at Severus

'By all means' Severus gestured

'I'm just going with Mr Harry Papa' Sophie informed her Father

'Okay love I'll wait here' Severus nodded

'Who have you brought with you today?' Harry inquired pointing to Fergus

'This is my frog Fergus' Sophie made the introductions

'Pleasure to meet you Fergus' Harry said shaking a webbed arm

Severus' heart flipped at the sight of the gorgeous man interacting so well with Sophie, he could tell that she was comfortable with him and he with her, listening intently as she bombarded him with questions about the story he had mentioned.

They returned 5 minutes later; Sophie carrying another two books in her arms, she set them on the counter along with the others and watched as Harry scanned each of them and put them into her library bag.

'There you go, I hope you enjoy your books' Harry said handing the little girl her now full library bag.

'Thank you Mr Harry' Sophie beamed 'Papa has books too'

'I can see that' Harry looked at Severus and scanned his books just as he did Sophie's 'You and your Papa will have a fun time reading'

Harry waved them off; not missing the questioning look Severus gave him on the way out. Once they were gone, he pulled the slip of paper from his pocket and stood staring at the number written on it.

His first thought was that Severus was married, there was often a lady that came in with Sophie, but if that was the case then why leave his number hidden in the book like that?

Second was the man had a daughter albeit a lovely little girl, but was he looking for something casual to take away the loneliness or was he looking for something more solid?

It seemed the phone number was raising more questions than it answered, Harry put the note back in his pocket and got on with his mornings work.

Over a week went by and Severus had heard nothing from Harry, he had seen the man put the slip of paper into his pocket, and yet he had heard not a word.

Maybe he wasn't interested, maybe the thought of seeing a man who had a little girl attached turned him off the idea, but in saying that Severus had seen how well he interacted with Sophie, and it wasn't an act.

He had become attuned over the years to that sort of thing; Harry was genuinely interested in what his daughter had to say. The radio silence irked him far more than he would have normally allowed.

His phone vibrated in his pocket, he snatched it out in the hopes that it was Harry, but alas it was only Tim, asking him to come and play squash with him that night at the village courts. Severus texted back a quick reply and put it back in his pocket.

Maybe it would help to work off some of his frustrations, and not only the ones caused by Harry not texting him, also the ones that the continual attacks on women and young girls was causing.

He had just finished with another victim; this one had been beaten pretty badly, but still insisted on coming into the station and giving a statement and a description to Severus.

Harry was given a bit of a reprieve that week at squash, Angie's flu had developed into a raging chest infection and she had spent a few days in the hospital, she was home now recovering and insisted that George take her place and play Harry.

'At least you're guaranteed a win tonight' George laughed 'I'm worse than you at this'

'Gee thanks for the vote of confidence' Harry said wryly, walking down the stairs to where the courts were located.

'I'm here for you mate' George clapped his shoulder

Tim picked Severus up from his sisters and drove them to the squash courts. Sophie was staying with Nora and Henry while he was out. It had been ages since he'd played any sort of sport and didn't like his chances of beating Tim.

'Thanks for coming' Tim countered as they walked into the stadium 'Ned's son has chicken pox so thought it best to stay clear'

'Smart move' Severus answered, he remembered when Sophie had contracted them from someone at nursery school, and the poor kid had been covered from head to toe in spots

'We're on court 6' Tim informed Severus as they walked down a small set of stairs.

As they passed the court next door to the one he and Tim would be playing on, Severus could have sworn he saw Harry and a man with ginger coloured hair engaged in a game.

He turned to deliver a backhand shot and confirmed that it was indeed Harry he had seen. There was a wall separating the two courts so once he and Tim walked onto theirs Harry was out of his line of sight.

'Far out' George panted trying to get his breath back 'either Angie needs glasses or you have been holding back all this time'

'A level playing field I think its called' Harry laughed

'Please tell me we just played the last round?' George asked hopefully

'Nope 3 more to go my friend' Harry patted his back and took a swig from his water bottle 'come on'

'Yeah, yeah give me a minute' George groaned standing up and following Harry back onto the court.

Tim was talking to the manager of the courts, so Severus took the opportunity to grab a bottle of water from the café and rest at one of the tables.

'I'm going home before you kill me' George complained as he hobbled up the stairs.

'Let me duck to the loo and then I'll take you' Harry chuckled

'No I'll walk, can't have my muscles seizing up' George replied

'Suit yourself' Harry smirked and bid his friend goodbye before sucking into the men's toilets.

Harry was walking past the café on his way out the door when he heard his name being called. Turning around he saw Severus Snape sitting at one of the tables sipping some water.

'Mr Snape' Harry greeted the man coming over to the table

Severus was slightly taken aback not only at the formal use of his name, but also at the sight that stood in front of him. Harry was dressed in a cotton shirt and shorts, tanned muscled legs encased in sneakers, hair drenched in sweat from playing.

'It's Severus' he replied 'Do you play here often?'

'Every week' Harry answered 'usually with Angie that works with me at the library, she is sick so her husband stepped in tonight, what about you?'

'Not for a long time, a friend asked me to fill in also' Severus responded 'I'm very much out of practice'

'How is Sophie enjoying her books?' Harry asked casually

'She loves them, we have read the Filbert ones twice already' Severus smiled 'I am very well versed in Frogs'

'Hahaa' Harry chuckled 'There are a few more in the series when she's ready'

'I haven't heard from you' Severus said quietly

Harry sighed he had been hoping to avoid this. 'I know, to be honest I wasn't quite sure what to do with it'

'Most people would send a text or ring' Severus claimed 'are you not interested?'

'It's not that, I guess I have a lot of questions' Harry said awkwardly

'I will answer them all' Severus stated

'There is a book club that meets at the library on Thursday nights for a couple of hours. They are usually done by 8 or a bit before, we could have a chat, before, during or after if you like depending on your schedule, bring Sophie along if you want' Harry offered

'I can get someone to look after her' Severus replied 'Why don't I meet you at the library a bit after 8?' he suggested

'Done, if you come to the back door I can let you in' Harry told him 'I will see you Thursday evening, have a good night Severus'

Harry walked out the front doors and got into his car, his heart was thudding in his chest, driving out of the car park he wondered if the man would turn up or not.

Tim dropped him off at Nora and Henry's, thanking him again for filling in. Severus went inside to find his daughter curled up beside Nora who was reading her a story.

'Have a good game?' Henry asked from his spot on the recliner

'As good as you can when playing against Tim' Severus replied

'I'll put the kettle on' Nora said finishing up the story she had been reading to Sophie

'You been good?' Severus asked his daughter and she scrambled into his lap

'Yes' Sophie answered 'I played cards with Uncle Henry'

'And cheated' Henry muttered under his breath

Severus laughed, he was probably right; Sophie had a way of always winning a card game.

'They had the pictures of the man attacking people in the city on the news tonight' Nora announced as she carried a tray with steaming cups of tea into the living room

'Hopefully it will do something to help catch him' Severus answered

'Let's hope so' Nora said sombrely, handing her brother a cup

'Thank you again Harry' Mae smiled as he let her out the front door of the library, the meeting of the book club having just ended.

'You're welcome Mae, see you next week' Harry waved before going back inside and locking the door, he had just walked into the office when a knock sounded at the back door, taking a deep breath he opened it and let Severus come inside.

'Have they finished?' he asked removing his coat

'Yeah, just now' Harry answered 'they don't usually go over time, would you like a cup of coffee or tea?'

'Tea would be nice' Severus smiled 'white with one please'

'Have a seat' Harry called over his shoulder as he went into the small kitchen and prepared the tea. Setting two cups down on the table, he took a seat across from Severus and tentatively sipped the hot brew.

'What questions do you have for me?' Severus asked getting down to business

'The first I guess is are you married?' Harry ventured

'No I'm not' Severus replied 'I certainly wouldn't have left my number in a book had that been the case'

'So Sophie's mum isn't in the picture?' Harry inquired

'No her mother passed away a month or so ago, she hasn't been in the picture for a very long time, that's a story for another day' Severus said evenly

'I'm sorry' Harry said quietly

'It's fine and she is better off that way believe me, what else did you want to know?' Severus asked

'Are you looking for something casual?'

'I don't do casual' Severus said brusquely 'I am at that point where I would like something solid, especially where Sophie is concerned'

'Fair enough' Harry agreed 'Why me?'

'Apart from our brief encounter on the train, I find you attractive, intelligent and you treat my daughter with respect, I would like to get to know you more' Severus gave a wry smile

'So you're not in it for a bit of slap and tickle?' Harry met his gaze

'Haven't heard it quite put like that before, but no I'm not' Severus smirked 'what are you after Harry?'

'I am looking to settle down, don't really go for the casual life much anymore if I ever did' Harry said honestly 'I would like someone to spend my life with'

'Seems we are after the same things' Severus sipped his tea, regarding Harry over the rim of his cup

'What about Sophie?' Harry asked

'I will not say anything to my daughter until I am sure that the relationship is going somewhere or will last' Severus intoned 'she already likes you so that is a plus'

'I am quite fond of her' Harry smiled 'where do we go from here?'

'We could go on a date somewhere have dinner get to know each other a bit more' Severus suggested

'I was going into the city to see the new and improved London eye next weekend, I have the Saturday off, Angie was going to come with me, but she hasn't been well, so was going to cancel, would you like to come instead?' Harry asked

'I will ask my sister if she wouldn't mind watching Sophie for the evening, were you staying down there?' Severus replied

'I was going to yes' Harry answered 'but now that Angie isn't coming I will just get the late train back home'

My sister will keep Sophie overnight, if you don't mind me staying a bit longer' Severus asked

'Certainly' Harry smiled 'What are your movements like on Monday?'

'I will be working from home on Monday' Severus told him

'The library is shutting at lunchtime on Monday, some big meeting happening, we could have lunch, if you're free' Harry suggested

'I would like that' Severus smiled 'on one condition'

'What's that?' Harry asked a worried edge to his voice

'You make use of my number between now and then?' Severus grinned slyly

'I think I can manage that' Harry smirked

'Good' Severus said nonchalantly

Half an hour later Harry switched off the lights and walked out the back door with Severus following close behind, he set the alarm and walked with him to where his car was parked.

'Thank you for coming Severus' Harry smiled 'I will see you on Monday'

'You're welcome Harry' Severus leaned in and gave him a quick peck on the cheek, before getting into his car.

Harry touched his cheek and a goofy grin crossed his face, he walked to his car and got inside, he must have sat staring out the front windscreen for several minutes before he started the car and drove home.

The café they had chosen to meet for lunch was relatively busy for a Monday; the sun was shining so Severus had texted Harry he'd chosen a table outside.

Harry walked in a little after 12:30 spotting Severus at one of the tables on the left-hand side. He smiled at the owner whom he knew by sight and weaved his way through the tables and joined Severus outside.

'Hello' Harry smiled as he sat down across from his date

'Hello' Severus grinned 'how's your morning been?'

'Not too bad until the big wigs from London turned up, the way they carry on you'd think they'd never left the city' Harry frowned 'I think the word they used for the library was a quaint little hole in the wall'

'Charming' Severus remarked 'They really don't know any better'

'No they don't' Harry concurred 'how has your morning been?'

'The latter part fine, the early part somewhat trying' Severus said plainly

'I take it the somewhat trying part has black curly hair and is about 8?' Harry guessed

'Got it in one' Severus intoned 'some form of demon possessed her this morning, I didn't think we'd get out the door, I pity the teacher today'

'Wow' Harry laughed 'is she normally that bad?'

'No, she is quite good in the mornings, she had a play date yesterday and consumed far too much sugar I think, it's not something she has a whole lot of' Severus explained 'the result being a grumpy possessed eight year old'

'I'm sure she will have come down off her high by the time schools out' Harry said positively

'If not I may let her loose on those big wigs in your quaint hole in the wall' he smirked.

'Go for it' Harry chuckled 'ready to order I am famished?'

'Yes I think I am going to try the toasted focaccia' Severus decided

'I might have the same' Harry thought 'I will just go an order would you like something to drink?'

'Just a water please' Severus smiled

Harry went up to the counter and placed their order, he paid while he was there before going back out to join Severus. He gave him the water and sat back down.

'So what do you do for work?' Harry asked

'I am a free lance sketch artist for the Police Service, I also illustrate children's books for an author friend of mine' Severus replied

'That would certainly keep you busy' Harry countered 'whose the Author you illustrate for?'

'Tim Chately'

'We have his books at work, hang on are you S.T. Prince?' Harry said in awe

'I am' Severus said quietly

'You're drawings are brilliant' Harry gaped 'I read those books a lot for story time, the kids love them'

'Thank you Harry that is very kind of you to say' Severus blushed slightly

'It's the truth, I wish I could draw like that' Harry sincerely 'by the way I'm loving the blush'

'Shut up' Severus said mock sternly

'First date and you're already telling me to shut up, doesn't say much for the rest of the relationship' Harry said feigning affront 'might have to delete that number I spent all of 30 seconds putting into my phone'

'Don't you dare' Severus warned 'it is very important'

'Is it just?' Harry quirked a brow amusement in his eyes

Their lunch arrived a short time later and the pair ate in companionable silence, glancing up every now and then at the other. Harry ordered coffee from the waitress as she came to collect their plates. Leaning back in his chair he sighed contentedly.

'That was really nice' Harry professed

'It was' Severus agreed 'the company was even better'

'I'll agree with that' Harry eyed the man across from him carefully

After they had finished their coffee Severus and Harry went for a walk along the breakwater, the water moving gently with the breeze. There was a path that wound around the edge, the pair wandered in that direction.

If anyone had asked him what compelled him to reach over and take Severus' hand in his own, Harry would not have been able to give a clear reason. Something told him that it was the thing to do.

Severus looked down at his hand then back up at Harry, a warm smile on his face.

'Is this alright?' Harry asked carefully 'please tell me if it's not'

'It's more than alright' Severus said in a low voice 'been a long time since I have held hands with anyone other than Sophie'

Whenever his phone buzzed over the next few days, Harry would break out into the biggest smile to have ever adorned his face. Angie made the appropriate gagging noises the first few times, then resorted to giving him what passed for a cute look whenever he got a text from Severus.

I hate people came the text followed by frowning faces

Why? Harry wrote back

Woman comes in to give me description of a man who stole her purse, said she got a really good look at him. So I draw said thief as per her instructions, when I'm finished I show her and she says that looked nothing like him and was I sure I'd heard her correctly and did I have a hearing problem!

What did you say?

I told her to sod off and find her own goddamn purse (in my head anyway) I asked her to go over the details again, it sunk in after the fourth or fifth time I asked.

Poor Sev Harry replied

You forgot overworked, underpaid and very put upon

I am terribly sorry

Thank you. I miss you Harry

I miss you too Sev, I will ring you tonight x

Video?

Of course

Harry put his phone away and checked out books for a lady and her daughter, Angie was only doing half days for a while, she still had a bad cough and the Dr suggested getting as much rest as possible. She came and watched Harry and George play squash giving her husband helpful hints along the way. Harry wasn't sure whether George took them on board or not.

After Sophie had gone to bed, Severus brought his laptop out into the living room ready for his video call with Harry, at 8:30 sharp, his face appeared on Severus' screen.

They chatted for over an hour than rang off, as Severus had to go back into the city the next day, he went to bed that night and slept better than he had in years, all thanks to the wonderful man that had come into his life.

Settling into their compartment on the train, Harry and Severus prepared for their trip into the city to have dinner and see the London eye. Harry was taking Severus to his favourite Mexican restaurant a place he always went to whenever he came into London.

The older man was looking forward to the experience. The conversation flowed easily; Harry asked about Sophie as he normally did, Severus said she was having a girl's night with his sister. Henry had gone to see his brother in Wales for a few days.

When the train pulled into the station in London the pair walked the short distance to the restaurant Harry had chosen, it was starting to get busy, being a Saturday night, but Harry had the forethought to book ahead, ensuring they got a table.

There were two levels to the restaurant, down below was noisy, while upstairs was somewhat quieter and you could actually hear yourself talk. The large window overlooking the city and the London Eye that they would be visiting later on in the evening was the view that greeted them at their reserved table. Harry ordered the enchiladas and Severus a taco. He insisted on paying after Harry had snuck and paid at the café earlier in the week.

'Mmm this is delicious here have a taste' Harry offered spearing a bit of his enchilada onto his fork and handing it to Severus.

'Very nice indeed' Severus savoured the taste, handing Harry back his fork

'Wonder if I can get a tray of these to take home?' he pondered

'I think you would get quite sick of them after a whole tray' Severus thought

'I would share' Harry huffed 'but yes you are right I wouldn't want to eat them again after that'

Walking out into the evening air Severus and harry headed in the direction of the London eye, this time Severus took Harry's hand in his own and relished in the feeling that went through his body.

The line for the eye wasn't as long as Harry thought it would be, and soon he and Severus were sitting in a little cabin type box, waiting to move. As the wheel started to move, Harry sat back hand still laced with Severus' and resting comfortably on both their knees. It was the closest he had been to Severus and that glorious scent that was so uniquely him wafted over to Harry.

They climbed higher and higher, after two laps Harry supposed you could call them, the wheel came to a sudden stop. A few seconds later a voice came over the speakers located inside their cages, saying a passenger was being let off down on ground level.

'Maybe they were scared of heights' Harry deduced

'Maybe' Severus replied 'Harry would you mind very much if I kissed you?'

Harry looked into the depths of Severus' obsidian orbs, and swallowed thickly.

'I wouldn't mind at all' Harry croaked

Severus leaned forward and cupped Harry's face with his hands, he rubbed his thumbs under forest green eyes and gently pressed his lips to Harry's, sparks went off in Harry's mind a whole fireworks show crackling away inside his head. Harry parted his lips and allowed Severus to enter his mouth, his tongue languidly sliding over Harry's. When the wheel began to move again, they parted, both flushed and hearts beating madly.

'I think kissing you is going to be my new favourite thing to do' Harry said hoarsely

'Mine too, that was lovely' Severus smiled a warm smile, caressing the side of Harry's flushed face.

Three months had gone before Harry knew it, as such saw him currently standing in the Reptile House of the London zoo, with Severus and a very excited 8-year-old girl.

Naturally the first place she had wanted to go to was the Amphibian Wing, to see the Frogs. Several of them now had names, including one that she was adamant looked exactly like Filbert from the books she had read as thus had been christened so.

A month before Severus and Harry had sat down with Sophie and explained as succinctly as they could that they were dating and that Severus liked Harry very much.

Dark eyes looked up from her colouring book, regarding them both, for a few moments nothing was said and both men worried her reaction wouldn't be favourable. After what seemed like an interminable amount of time Sophie asked Harry the following questions

Did he like Broccoli?

Was he going to have a sleepover and if so could he read her a story?

Could he push her on the swing out in their backyard?

Having answered them to her liking Sophie hopped down off her seat came over and gave her father a kiss on the cheek and did the same to Harry, she went back to her colouring. Stunned and relieved Harry and Severus went into the kitchen for a cup of tea. A few minutes later they heard Sophie telling Fergus, that was why Papa was singing songs in the shower, because Mr Harry was making him happy.

'Look Harry look' Sophie squealed 'the frog is talking to me'

'What's he saying?' Harry asked crouching down beside the excited girl

'He is asking about Fergus' Sophie delighted, sitting her stuffed Frog on the ledge so he could see into the enclosure.

'That's nice of him isn't it?' Harry grinned

'Yes' Sophie nodded her head

'Better say goodbye to the Frog Angel so we can go and see some of the other animals, I'm sure they are all waiting to meet Fergus' Severus told his daughter

'Okay, bye Frogs I have to go now' Sophie waved goodbye and grabbing her father and Harry's hand left the Frogs and went out into the main part of the zoo.

After walking around half the zoo, they stopped for lunch, on the grassed area. Severus bought some sandwiches and bottles of water. Sophie ate happily, chatting away to Fergus about the animals they had seen and were yet to see. Harry was leaning back against a tree; Severus was beside him, brushing his hand over Harry's.

'She is having the best time' Harry said fondly she'll sleep well tonight'

'She is, made all the better by having you here' Severus said wistfully

'Thank you for inviting me' Harry smiled 'I am having a great time'

'Me too' Severus answered 'I am dying to kiss you though'

'I know the feeling' Harry countered

They hadn't shown a lot of affection in front of Sophie yet, only a hand squeeze here or there, it was one thing to be ok with Severus and Harry seeing each other but snogging in front of her was something else.

Sophie finished her lunch and was ready to go and see the rest of the animals, taking a hand in each of hers, the trio set off to explore the rest of London Zoo.

The exhausted 8 year old girl was asleep before Severus had even gotten out of the city, they decided to drive down and back save waiting for the train, neither thought Sophie would cope with that after a day of excitement. Reluctantly Severus dropped Harry off at home and then went home himself putting his daughter into bed.

Spraining his ankle while playing squash the Monday following his trip to the zoo, saw him having dinner with Severus and Sophie the Monday after that. Severus had made beef Stroganoff for dinner with a caramel tart for dessert. It was absolutely divine and Harry was sure he wouldn't need to eat anything for the next week he was so full.

When Sophie was bathed and ready for bed she insisted that Harry read her a bedtime story, she had been to the library and borrowed the next in the Filbert the Frog books, so he read a bit out of that. Eyelids drooping, Harry tucked her in and dropped a kiss on her forehead before heading back downstairs to Severus.

'She is out like a light' Harry announced as he came to sit on the sofa beside Severus.

'Good now come here' Severus pulled him closer and took Harry's mouth in a sweet kiss, it reduced him to a puddle of goo every time, something ignited inside him whenever he and Sev kissed, he could never get enough of the mans lips.

Resting his head against Harry's Severus stared deeply into shining green pools 'I love kissing you Harry' he whispered

'I love kissing you too' Harry responded in fact he was sure he loved Severus altogether but now wasn't the time to mention that

They had just started kissing again when Severus' phone rang; it was Nora saying that Henry had been in an accident and was on his way to the hospital. Severus told his sister he was on his way. Hanging up the phone he looked at Harry who only nodded, no words were needed to convey what they wanted.

'Let me know' Harry said as Severus kissed him goodbye and hurried out the door

Harry switched on the TV and settled down to watch one of the crime shows he normally tuned into.

'Nora what happened?' Severus asked coming into the hospital and finding his sister in the waiting room.

'He was hit by a car Severus, he was coming back from the pub and someone ran him over, they didn't stop they just kept going' she sobbed launching herself in her brothers arms.

'He's in the best place Nory' Severus soothed her 'the Dr will be out soon to tell us what's happening, I asked the Nurse at the desk when I came in'

'Where's Sophie?' Nora asked realising her niece wasn't with Severus

'At home Harry is looking after her, he was over for dinner when you rang' Severus replied

'He is a lovely man Sev, hold onto to him' Nora smiled weakly

'I was planning to, I think I'm falling in love with him Nory' Severus admitted

'I'm glad to hear it' Nora answered

Harry had met Nora and Henry about two months ago; they instantly warmed to him and he to them. His sister could see how good he was with Sophie and how she responded to him. After everything Severus had been through with Fiona, Nora told him he deserved to have someone as kind and gentle as Harry in his and Sophie's life.

He had met George and Angie who approved whole-heartedly of the relationship, Severus had lunch with George on occasion when he was in the city.

'Mrs West?' the Dr asked coming into the waiting room

'Yes, how is he Dr?' Nora asked sitting up and drying her eyes

'Your husband has a ruptured spleen as a result of the accident, we are preparing him for surgery, he also sustained a broken arm and a few fractured ribs. The operation will take a few hours, you are welcome to wait or we can call you when he is in recovery' the Dr explained

'I'll wait' Nora said firmly 'Can I see him before he goes in?'

'Certainly if you come this way?' the Dr took Nora to see Henry and Severus stayed in the waiting room.

He sent a quick text to Harry telling him what happened and that Henry was about to head into surgery. Harry replied that everything was fine at home and he would stay as long as Severus needed him to, Angie would bring him over a change of clothes just in case.

Severus itched to tell Harry he loved him, but now wasn't the time for romantic declarations.

Nora came back into the waiting room and sat with Severus, she said that Henry had been given the anaesthesia and was fairly out of it. He'd mumbled something about the garden before drifting off.

'Papa' a small voice said from the bottom of the stairs

Harry turned around and saw Sophie standing on the step clutching Fergus tightly in her arm. 'What's wrong sweetheart?' Harry got up and went over to the stairs.

'Where's Papa?' she asked

'He had to go and see Aunty Nora, he'll be back soon' Harry told her

'I had a bad dream' Sophie told Harry her bottom lip beginning to quiver

'That's no good, would you like to come and sit with me for awhile?' he asked taking her hand.

'Yes please' she whispered following Harry to the sofa and climbing into his lap

'Want to tell me what the bad dream was about?'

'Witch from the oz movie' Sophie replied 'don't like her'

'Neither do I' Harry confessed 'she can't hurt you now, you're safe here with me'

Sophie cuddled in closer to Harry's chest and shut her eyes, Harry wondered for a few moments where she could have possibly watched the Wizard of Oz movie, then remembered that Severus told him she had a play date with a friend of hers and figured that's where she watched it. Harry hadn't watched it until he was 19 and it had scared him senseless; imagine what it did to an 8 year old.

Coaxing her back into bed, Harry lay down beside her until she fell asleep, the next thing he knew someone was gently shaking him. Opening his eyes he saw Severus standing in Sophie's room with a smile on his face.

'Sev what time is it?' Harry asked sleepily

'Just gone on 6' he said in a whispered tone

'How's Henry?' he asked slipping off the bed careful not to wake Sophie

'Out of surgery and resting comfortably in the recovery ward' Severus told him

'Good' Harry said 'how's Nora?'

'Gone home to get some sleep' Severus countered

They tiptoed downstairs and Severus put the kettle on, getting to mugs from the cupboard, along with the coffee, sugar and milk.

'Sophie had a nightmare last night, hence why you found me asleep in her room' Harry said

'What about?' Severus asked

'Wizard of Oz, apparently she watched it yesterday'

'Why doesn't that surprise me?' Severus scowled 'that child is allowed to watch what she pleases'

'I didn't watch it until I was 19 and it scared the hell out of me even at that age' Harry claimed 'I think she needs a new friend'

'I'm positive she does' Severus frowned 'thank you for watching her'

'No thanks needed I was happy to do so' Harry smiled 'if you need to be at the hospital I can pick her up from school, take her to work with me'

'I will see how Henry is by lunchtime, then go from there, you are a wonderful man Harry' Severus smiled

'That's because I am with a man who makes me want to be so' Harry returned the gesture

'Sometime very soon I want to take you to bed' Severus said smoothly coming over and wrapping his arms around Harry's waist. 'I wish it could be now, but my darling daughter will be awake very soon demanding my attention'

'I would like that' Harry said quietly

'I want to worship every inch of you' Severus breathed kissing Harry gently

'Keep talking like that and you'll be worshipping me on the kitchen floor' Harry stammered taking a step back.

'Mmm sounds good' Severus purred a feral look in his eyes

'Behave you wicked man' Harry chided

'Hi Papa' Sophie said sleepily coming down the stairs rubbing her eyes

'Hello Angel' Severus smiled moving past Harry and running a hand over his groin, picking his daughter up and kissing her cheek. 'You have a good sleep?'

'Yes, Harry stayed with me when I had a bad dream' she said

'That was nice of him wasn't it?' Severus answered

Sophie nodded and held out her arms to Harry when they got closer 'Want a cuddle Harry' she asked launching herself into his arms.

'Of course sweet girl' Harry said taking the girl from Severus and sitting down at the table with her on his knee.

'You stay for breakfast?' Sophie asked

'I have to go home and get ready for work, sweetie but I might see you later' Harry replied

'After school?'

'Yeah after school' Harry smiled

'Soph why don't you go and lay on the sofa watch some cartoons, for a bit. I will just see Harry out' Severus suggested

Sophie kissed Harry goodbye and padded into the living room, a second later the TV came to life and she was cuddled up with Fergus on the sofa.

Grabbing his keys and his phone, Harry walked out the front door of Severus' house and unlocked his car.

'You let me know if I need to get Sophie?' Harry reminded Severus 'give Nora and Henry my best'

'I will' Severus smiled, pressing his lips to Harry's and kissing him softly. 'There is something I need to tell you Harry'

'You don't have to Sev, I know' Harry replied looking into those captivating eyes

'You do?' Severus gaped

'Yeah I do and I feel the same' Harry said quietly, getting into his car

'Really?' Severus asked

'Yes so very much for the both of you' Harry said reverently

'We will talk about it later?' Severus countered for lack of something to say

'We sure will' Harry grinned 'I'll text you later'

'Ok' Severus near skipped back inside after Harry had left his driveway, the words echoing in his mind, they hadn't really been words as such more just confirming what the both of them felt.

Henry had spoken to the Police by the time Severus got back to the hospital that morning, shortly after taking Sophie to school. He'd given them a vague description of the driver, but as it was dark and the streetlights didn't offer a great deal in the way of brightness, he couldn't be sure.

They were going to send a sketch artist all the same normally it would have been Severus, but as it was his brother in law, he opted to stay out of it.

The woman that was coming in his place was very good and Severus had met her on several occasions. Nora brought him in a few things from home and fussed about putting them in the bedside cabinets.

The Dr came in and said that the operation went well, Henry would need to be in hospital for a week, before going home to recover. This was a precaution to ensure no infections arose as a result of the operation or there was no internal bleeding. Nora seemed to become more relaxed after the visit, now that she knew Henry was more or less all right.

It was after lunch and Severus was about to leave, when Henry went downhill, he started to shake, shiver and his temperature spiked to a dangerous level. The nurse that came in assured them it was a common occurrence after surgery; the body often reacted to the anaesthesia.

The Dr was called and he administered something to bring his fever down and to make him more comfortable, the wound site was checked as well. Nora became quite upset so he text Harry and asked if he could pick Sophie up after school.

Severus had contacted the office to inform them Harry would be picking his daughter up. He had explained to his daughter that morning about Henry, telling her he would bring her in to see him when he was feeling a bit better. She took it in her stride as she did everything and went on with her daily routine.

10 days later Henry was discharged from the hospital and sent home to recover from his accident, his wound was healing nicely, but still had to be changed and cleaned each day. Nora, who had been a nurse until a few years ago, was able to take care of that side of things. Sophie had been to see Henry in the hospital and had given him a card she'd made the day she went to the library with Harry after school.

The driver of the car that had hit Henry, came forward and told Police he hadn't realised he'd hit anyone until the news came over the radio, he was incredibly remorseful and had never set out to run anyone down. Had he known he said he would have stopped and called for an Ambulance.

Severus poured some wine into Harry's glass and sat down across from him at the table, Sophie was spending the night with Tim and Bev, their granddaughter was visiting and she was around the same age as Sophie. Severus took the opportunity to spend some quality time with Harry, by cooking a romantic dinner for two.

'To us' Severus raised his glass and clinked it with Harry's

'To us' Harry repeated 'You have outdone yourself Sev, this is magnificent'

'Better than the restaurant?' Severus wondered

'A hundred times better' Harry mumbled stuffing enchilada into his mouth

Severus had tried his hand at making a Mexican meal for Harry, it seemed he had done well, the man couldn't get it into his mouth quick enough, the sounds his was making were positively sinful. So much so Severus was having a little trouble concentrating on his own meal.

'Leave some room for dessert Harry' Severus chuckled

'What's for dessert?' Harry asked his eyes wide with interest

'You in my bed, making more of those delicious sounds' Severus said without batting an eyelid.

'Well I had better slow down then' Harry stuttered

'If you want to that is?' Severus asked

'More than you know' Harry smiled

After the dishes were done and the kitchen put back to rights, Severus went into the living room and pressed a button on the stereo that sat on a shelf behind the sofa. Soft music began to play; he took Harry's hand and led him into the middle of the room, pulling him flush against him, they moved to the music.

'Thought it might help you relax a bit' Severus whispered

'It's perfect' Harry said softly 'I'm not scared'

'Neither am I' Severus admitted

When the song had finished, Severus led Harry upstairs and into his bedroom, he switched on one of the bedside lamps and kissed Harry deeply, his hands moving over his body, Harry moaned into the kiss, his hands sneaking underneath Severus' shirt and running over warm skin. With every stitch of clothing gone, Severus lowered Harry to the bed as if he were made of fine china, kissing every inch of skin, mapping out the planes of his stomach with his tongue.

Making love to Severus was more than he could have ever hoped for, his body was on fire from the moment Severus touched him to the moment the mans name fell from his lips, the most exquisite orgasm he had ever experienced overwhelming him, taking him higher and higher until he was boneless. Basking in that lustful haze, he rested his head on Severus' chest, his heart full to the brim.

'There are no words to describe how fantastic that was' Harry said with conviction

'I know the feeling' Severus concurred 'this right here right now is perfection'

'Sev?' Harry said turning so he could face him 'I love you'

'I love you Harry' Severus whispered 'nothing has ever felt more right'

When Severus opened his eyes the next morning it was to find Harry feasting on his hardening penis.

'Harry?' Severus groaned out

'Busy' Harry mumbled

'You certainly are' Severus mewled arching his back off the bed

Severus was tidying his desk when there was a knock on the door, a police officer that looked to be in a state of shock was standing in the doorway.

'Mark what's the matter?' Severus asked his heart clenching

'A little girl was attacked just outside the park, he tried to grab her, but she screamed and kicked him so hard she was able to get away. She was only 9 Sev and he tried to snatch her' the officer was on the verge of tears.

'Oh god' Severus gasped feeling sick to his stomach

'Mother is bringing her in to make a statement and to give you a description of what she saw' the officer relayed

'Ok I will get organised' Severus muttered, he took the other sketches from his drawer and set them out on the table, maybe she would be able to identify him from one of those, save having to go over the whole terrifying ordeal again.

Harry was putting books back onto their shelves when he heard the back door open and Severus come through into the library, he looked dishevelled and pale.

'Honey what's the matter?' Harry asked going to his lover

'Oh god Harry he tried to take a little girl' Severus' voice cracked as he spoke

'Oh no' Harry gasped 'here sit down, he grabbed one of the chairs from the table and let Severus sit down.

'What happened?' Harry asked

Severus told him about the little girl that had been attacked and how very brave she was, she had mostly identified the man from the sketches Severus had from previous victims, not once did she falter.

'What if that had been Sophie?' Severus sobbed

'Listen to me' Harry said firmly 'I will not let anything happen to that little girl and neither will you, we are here away from the city, she is safe'

'It's the thought of it' Severus cried

'I know, I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to her that little girl means the world to me' Harry replied

Severus looked up at him with a tear stained face, falling in love with the man all the more.

'She has wound her way into my heart' Harry smiled

'Yeah?' Severus asked

'Yeah I am in this for the long haul Sev, I'm not going anywhere' Harry assured him

'God I love you' Severus breathed kissing Harry hard

Next thing he knew they were naked, and Harry was buried deep inside the man he loved, pouring every emotion he felt as he pounded into him.

Panting Harry let out a bark of laughter when he realised what section they had just made love in.

'What's so amusing?' Severus questioned

'We picked a great section to fuck in Sev, the sports/fitness section' Harry chuckled 'that was certainly one hell of a workout'

'Indeed' Severus purred 'What do you say to a movie night with our favourite girl tomorrow night and a sleepover?'

'I say I will bring the popcorn' Harry laughed rolling on top of Severus and kissing him.

'Ribbit, ribbit' George croaked hopping around the living room of Severus' house like a Frog, Sophie giggling and shrieking with delight

'Kiss me ribbit' George croaked again puckering his lips

'Quick kiss him and he will turn into a handsome prince' Angie whispered to Sophie

George and Angie had introduced Sophie to the story of the Princess and the Frog, the only story George said a Frog should star in, which had led to the re-enactment of said story in the living room.

Giggling Sophie walked over and gave George a quick peck on the cheek, the darted back to Angie's side, eyes wide as George acted out the transformation from Amphibian to Prince.

'Oh my Princess' George exclaimed falling to his knees and kissing Sophie's hands 'you have broken the evil curse, how could I ever thank thee?'

Severus, who was standing in the kitchen with Harry, shook his head at the antics going on in front of him.

'I don't know who the bigger kid is?' he countered

'George by a mile' Harry laughed

Four adults sat in the living room enjoying coffee, Sophie had gone to bed without much fuss, worn out from all the acting she had done before dinner. George spied the folder of sketches Severus a brought home from work and inadvertently left on the coffee table.

'I know him' George announced, opening the folder and inspecting the drawing closer 'he comes into the shop all the time, like these sweets that I have to order in special'

'What do you mean you know him?' Severus asked, sitting forward in his chair

'His names Jed something?' George furrowed his brow trying to remember the mans last name

'Have you seen any of these other men?' Severus spread the drawings out on the table so George could see them clearly

'It's the same bloke' George replied looking puzzled 'a few subtle changes, but it's the same bloke'

Angie leant forward and looked at the sketches, her eyes went from one to the other, and back again.

'George is right' she agreed 'Looks like he has changed his appearance each time'

'What do you mean?' Severus asked confused

'I took a theatre class at Uni and they showed us how people alter their appearance, it can something as simple as coloured contact lenses, wigs, fake beards, moustaches, prosthetics, like his nose, in some of the pictures it's bigger and in some it's smaller' Angie pointed out

'I'll be damned' Severus murmured

'What's he supposed to have done?' George asked casually

'He's the one that's been attacking those people in the park in the city' Harry told him

'Oh crap and I have been serving him, making conversation with some low life who hurts people' George gasped 'he'll be back this Wednesday to pick up his order'

'What time?' Severus said sharply, pulling his phone from his pocket

'Umm 11am' George answered shakily

Severus punched in a number and walked into the kitchen, a few minutes later he was back in the living room.

'I need you to meet me at the Police station in the morning so you can explain to the officers about this man, they will more than likely want to set up an ambush in the shop on Wednesday before he comes in' Severus explained to George.

'I'll be there' George said firmly 'anything to help

Harry was curled up on the sofa with Severus and Sophie, who were nestled between them; they were having what had become their regular Friday movie and sleep over night.

Sophie had chosen the movie Toy Story to watch. It had been one hell of a week, the man that had been attacking people in the city had been caught when he came into George's shop to pick up his order, he was now in remand awaiting trial.

When they searched his house they found an entire room full of equipment he'd used to change his appearance.

The movie was nearing the end, out the corner of his eye, Harry saw Severus lean over and whisper something in Sophie's ear, the little girl giggled and nodded at her father, she scrambled into his lap and got comfy.

'Harry?' Sophie asked tapping him on the shoulder

'Yes sweetheart' Harry replied

'Papa and I want to know if you will come live with us and be our family?' Sophie said seriously

Harry angled himself on the sofa so he could see the both of them. 'Ummmmm' Harry said tapping his chin and twitching his eyes as if in deep thought 'I would love nothing more than to come and live with you and Papa and be your family'

'Yay' Sophie clapped 'see Papa I said he would say yes'

'You doubted my response Mr Snape?' Harry quirked a brow

'Not for a minute Mr Potter' Severus smirked 'it was her' he mouthed pointing to Sophie

'I have one condition' Harry chimed in 'you will be my family too?'

Sophie looked at Severus for confirmation and he nodded, she turned back to Harry and smiled

'We will be your family too Harry'

'I was hoping you'd say that'

Two weeks later Harry moved out of his house and into Severus', he had put the small cottage on the market, seeing no point in keeping it. Sophie helped Harry move his things into what was now his and Severus' room. Tim, Bev, Nora, Henry, George and Angie came over a week later for a BBQ to toast Harry moving in. it was everything he had ever wanted and more than he could have hoped for.

Severus left his job as a freelance sketch artist for the London Police Service, after the little girl was attacked it became too much for him to sit and listen as people described the horrific things that had happened to them, now he just illustrated for Tim and another Author who Tim had recommended him to. Harry was working at the library with Angie and loving it.

The big city owners had decided to sell the quaint little hole in the wall off, as they would rather deal with large libraries, Mae who was president of the book club that met once a week, bought the library and made Harry the manager, she said it was just the thing she had been looking for.

As he finished reading the story he had chosen for that weeks story time, he reflected that while great things had happened to the family on the train, his relationship wouldn't have come about if it hadn't been for a trip on a train.

5 Years later

'Papa, Dad have you seen my purple top?' a voice called out from upstairs

'Your daughter is calling you Harry' Severus said from behind the newspaper

'I believe she called out Papa first honey' Harry answered

'When she loses things she is your daughter' Severus quipped

'Mhmm, tell me my love have you found that sketch you have been looking for, for the last 3 weeks yet?' Harry pondered

'Smart arse' Severus grumbled, folding his paper and glaring at his husband

'My arse is very smart' Harry smirked

'Never mind I found it' 13-year-old Sophie announced as she thundering down the stairs.

'Morning Papa, Morning Dad' Sophie greeted her fathers kissing them both.

'Morning Angel' Harry and Severus said in unison.

Harry had legally adopted Sophie 6 months after he had moved in with her and Severus; she was flower girl at their wedding a year later.

'What time's Auntie Angie coming?' she asked Harry

'9:30 sweetie, she just text me to say she is on her way' Harry replied

'What are you doing with Auntie Angie today?' Severus asked his daughter

'We are going into the city to see a movie, have lunch, go shopping and see Uncle George' Sophie rattled off her itinerary.

'Movie is age appropriate?' Severus inquired

'Yes Papa' Sophie sighed

A horn bipped outside and Sophie rushed out the door, waving and calling out goodbye to her parents as she went.

'What's on your agenda today?' Harry asked taking the plates and cups to the sink

'Educating that smart arse of yours' Severus purred coming up behind Harry and thrusting gently into him.

'Educate away' Harry growled kissing Severus hard

Fin