CHAPTER 18
Notes:
Hello, dear readers.
Here we go with another instalment of this fic, chapter 18. I have to thank my readers, since two of them gave me the suggestions to include in this chapter. This one features a literal child Severus, and some time away from Hogwarts!
ENJOY!
The night after their visit to Rosie both Harry and Severus slept profoundly and woke up feeling refreshed. Yes, Harry still had a lot to deal with, and he was aware he hadn't done his part in healing from the past. But, talking things with Severus and Rosie had lifted some of the weight on his shoulders. At first, it seemed that visiting Rosie had been exactly what they had needed.
Over the next couple of weeks, though, he noticed Severus growing more reserved and thoughtful than he had recently been. It happened soon after Severus had told him he was experimenting with new potions. Harry, who had already got used to seeing him somewhat relaxed, especially around him, was concerned about this change.
He spent a lot of time in his private lab, leaving Harry alone in his quarters for most of their evenings. Harry found the evenings lonely and boring, he'd got used to spending them in Severus's company. He'd tried to take his stuff and work in his lab to keep him company, but lately, Severus had asked to be left alone there too.
That in itself had been strange and it concerned Harry, why was Severus asking that from him? He knew he could focus with him there, he'd worked with him in the lab plenty of times, and he knew how to behave to not disturb Severus's concentration.
It got even worse when weekends were also spent in solitude in the lab. Harry had spent many Saturdays and Sundays grading papers, reading and working out. Sometimes he even grabbed his old Firebolt and took her for a ride, if the Quidditch pitch wasn't taken. Other times he'd take advantage of the uncommonly sunny day to walk to Hogsmeade and back. Yet, when he returned to have a shower, Severus was still in his lab.
At first, Harry tried to rationalize it and not give it much importance. If Severus was experimenting, it didn't take a lot to understand that whatever it was, it was new and cutting-edge. Whatever he was working on was bound to be a breakthrough in the Potions field. Therefore, it was normal that Severus would focus his efforts and attention on his project.
Besides, Harry had his own hobbies and friends himself. He focused on his own interests and fire-called his friends, who often asked about Severus. He only told them he was working on a potion experiment, keeping his thoughts to himself.
But this was beyond being hyperfocused on a project, and Harry realized soon after the first two weeks. As the days passed, Severus's mood turned foul, his answers dry. He'd lose his temper with Harry, many mornings storming off to the Great Hall alone, barely giving time for the Gryffindor to wake up.
After the first weeks, it was obvious that things weren't going well. Severus's sleep was pitiful again, it took him a long time to nod off, and he kept tossing and turning in bed. His work was piling up, several dozens of papers sitting on his desk, waiting to be graded. Harry suggested regressing on a Sunday, wanting to help. However, Severus refused his offer, only saying "he was busy". For the next week, nothing was mentioned about regressing.
Despite his refusal, Harry still tried to keep Severus to a schedule and made sure to get some food in him. Many times the Slytherin looked thoughtful and serious, playing with the food on his plate instead of eating.
Harry was becoming very worried. Loss of appetite, disrupted sleeping patterns, irascibility... he didn't know what to do.
One evening, at dinner, Harry had had enough of observing Severus picking at his food without eating it. He looked angry about something, his scowl had increased in the last hours, and he hadn't spoken to him once. He waited for a long while, and not liking what he was seeing, he whispered in his ear to please eat something.
"I can look after myself, Potter" was his dry answer, his voice cold.
And that answer, those words, had cut deep into Harry's heart.
He knew what Severus could be like, he'd lived with the man being sour and cruel to him for seven years. So, he was used to his dry answers or sharp tongue.
But he had never refused his coddling so blatantly. Usually, Severus was grateful when Harry showed him he looked after him, especially when he wasn't little. His eyes would light up like a Christmas tree, and while his expression didn't crack, Harry could read the warmth and affection in those eyes.
Now, Severus didn't even look at him in the eye.
That night, when Severus had disappeared into his lab and he was alone with his thoughts, he began to be terrified.
What if he was losing Severus? What if he was beginning to get overwhelmed and pressured in their relationship? Harry had never wanted to impose his presence on him, and he would be horrified if he had ever forced Severus to do anything he didn't want. But so far consent had always been a huge part of their understanding, so he had always assumed Severus wanted him near. In fact, he had attested to that several times.
But lately, rather than wanting him near, it seemed he was avoiding him. For weeks now they hadn't spent a single moment alone. They still slept together in the same bed, but Harry felt a rift between them, and Severus was as cold as ice to him.
Perhaps he only needed some time alone?
It wasn't as far-fetched, after all, Severus had spent decades completely alone and dependent only on himself. The fact that Harry was there for him all the time didn't mean Severus was comfortable with sharing all his space and time with him.
But the longer Severus spent in his lab, the more worried Harry became.
One thing he was clear and, at least, Harry felt a tad relieved knowing that Severus wasn't lying, he was brewing potions. The awful smell he brought with him was a tell-tale sign. Thankfully, although he had had his sleep and appetite disrupted, Severus still followed Harry's advice and washed up. If not as often as he should, then more often than he did in the past.
More than once Harry had wondered what was happening, and why Severus seemed to be pulling away from him. He didn't see the small child who needed his constant presence, or even the adult who'd grown to care and trust for him.
He wanted to gather up his courage and ask him. Not to demand any answers, he knew Severus owed him none, he only wanted to understand. He replayed the last moments and conversations in his head, trying to decipher if Severus was upset with him for some reason he hadn't realized. But he came up empty.
One evening, Severus gave one wrong answer at the wrong time. And that was the last straw for Harry.
"Okay Severus, that's enough," Harry said, crossing his arms in front of his chest.
He blocked Severus, who was on his way to his private lab already; and planted himself in front of the door.
"I don't know what you're doing in there, but I'm beginning to think you're brewing to avoid me."
"What on earth are you babbling on about?" Severus said, his voice angry "move aside, I need to check my work."
"Yes, as you've been doing for the past weeks or so," Harry said, trying to keep his temper in check.
"In case you haven't noticed, Potter, I have been working. Problem?" there we go, it was Potter again. Harry hated when Severus used his surname, it told him, more than anything, that there was something wrong.
"The only problem I have is that it seems you want me to disappear from your sight" Harry answered.
He felt his throat constricting and his vision blurring, but he choked his tears back. He would not cry, bloody hell!
But he couldn't speak either. The words died in his mouth, as though if he let go; if he spoke... he wouldn't be speaking but sobbing. He lowered his gaze, focusing on the stone floor, his heart shattering in his chest.
Was this it? Was this the moment Severus told him he'd had enough of him, he didn't need him anymore?
He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart, and he gulped.
"I don't know if I've done something to annoy or upset you, but if I have, I'd thank you if you told me so we can fix it" Harry whispered. He took a ragged breath and added, hearing his voice quiver "and if you don't want me here, you just have to say the word."
There were a few seconds of silence, but Harry didn't dare to look up. He couldn't.
"What are you... Harry, I'm not upset with you... why would you..." Severus said, his sentences incomplete, and his voice had lost the angry edge entirely.
Harry heard him walking up to him until he saw his boots right in front of him. He still didn't dare bring up his eyes.
"I hurt you, didn't I?" Severus said, and his voice sounded so low and regretful... Harry finally lifted up his gaze, locking eyes with him.
Severus's shoulders were hunched. His previously stone-cold face held now a pure expression of sadness and regret, his eyes flickering in the light of the fireplace. He saw his Adam's apple bobbing as he gulped.
Harry nodded once, slowly, as he bit his lower lip.
"Harry, I'm really sorry" Severus whispered "I didn't want to make you feel... Merlin, I'm so stupid..."
"You're not," Harry said, almost automatically, already used to Severus's self-deprecating language "just tell me what's going on. Please."
"Let me go and check it, it's under stasis," Severus said, gesturing to the closed door behind Harry "or better yet. Come with me. I'll show you."
Harry nodded once, and Severus opened the door to his private lab by placing his hand on the wood. It was a powerful magic spell, tied to his magical signature, like the one he had on the front door of his quarters. Harry had tried to open it only once but soon desisted, feeling guilty for even wanting to get inside. Very obviously, Severus wanted to keep what he had inside a secret; and he had to respect his wishes. Whatever those may be, and however hurtful they were to him.
Severus offered his hand, and Harry grabbed it, trying to keep his feelings in check. Together, they walked through the threshold and entered Severus's personal space.
There were two working stations, and on one Harry could see a cauldron under stasis. As soon as he got in he recognized that awful smell Severus came to bed with every night. His nose flared, it was a truly foul smell.
The Potions Master walked straight to the work station, extinguished the fire under the cauldron and stopped the stasis spell. Then, he took a small amount of potion and poured it into a vial. Severus then turned around and showed him the flask with the liquid inside.
Harry had been rubbish at potions for years, he couldn't deny that. It was only on his sixth year, with the anonymous help of Severus's old book, that he'd begun to develop an aptitude and interest in the subject. Later on, he'd acquired knowledge of different potions, which he'd widened in his teacher training. So, he wasn't a complete idiot when it came to potions. But, despite his knowledge, he had never seen a potion like this one. It was light blue, with tinges of white swirling in the liquid.
"What's that?"
"A potion," Severus said, and Harry rolled his eyes. But the choice of words told Harry more than what Severus was saying. He waited.
"Remember when we went to Diagon Alley and you saw Rosie?" Severus asked. Harry nodded "I had gone to buy more supplies for this potion, I've been experimenting with it."
"I gathered as much, yes," Harry said, "is this potion why you haven't wanted me near you for weeks?"
"I apologise," Severus said, looking down "I know I told you not to come in here. But this was quite a temperamental potion, I didn't want to risk it."
Harry waited for Severus to elaborate, but he didn't. He seemed to be having trouble explaining himself. He left the vial on the table and walked to the Gryffindor, who was still standing close to the door.
"I am sorry, Harry," Severus said "I never wanted you to feel unwanted. I just... I have this bad habit, when I'm working on something I focus on it too much and forget about everything else. Please, forgive me..."
"So... you weren't avoiding me?" Harry asked. He knew he sounded stupid, but he... he had to be sure.
"Avoiding you?" Severus asked "No, of course not. But unfortunately, I am... unaccustomed to having someone look after me all the time. And I lashed out at you when I shouldn't have."
He took another step and Harry saw Severus bending his knees, so he would be at his eye level. With extreme gentleness, he grabbed his hands, and Harry felt his thumb gently caressing the back of his hand.
"I never wanted you to feel like I was avoiding you" Severus whispered, and his voice sounded so tender, Harry wanted to believe him so much "and I'm sorry for making you think I did..."
"But the way you gave me the cold shoulder, and didn't even speak with me? The silences and bad mood?" Harry pressed "are you sure it had nothing to do with me?"
"No, it did not" Severus answered. His voice went deeper "it was the potion. Three times it didn't work as I expected and had to start from scratch. It was quite vexing" he added and shook his head.
Could that be all? Harry thought. But still, the hurt feeling in his chest didn't let him breathe properly.
"I know I was short on temper during that time. And I apologise, that was no way of treating you" Severus added "but I promise, Harry, I have no reason to avoid you or be upset with you. Why would you think I do?"
"I don't know!" Harry said, and to his horror, he felt a few tears escaping his eyelids. He gulped, but he couldn't bring them back, couldn't contain them "I just... for months we've spent almost all the time together and now, it seemed like you didn't want to even speak with me, much less be in the same room. I just thought I'd done something that hurt you, or that it had become too much for you, and was easier to avoid me than to tell me directly..."
He saw through his tears that Severus was shaking his head, avid to speak.
"No, I can assure you, nothing further from the truth," he said, his voice sounding breathy "it was all my fault, you did nothing wrong. I never wanted to hurt you..."
"It's okay... I just... I needed to know we're okay..." Harry said, and he felt stupid for sounding so needy.
"We are, Harry. We are" Severus said. Then, Harry saw him open his arms and take a step towards him "come..."
The moment he felt Severus's arms around him, the moment he was pushed against a sturdy chest full of buttons, Harry felt his resolve break. The tears escaped his eyelids and he burrowed his face against the Potions Master, choking on a sob that got caught at the back of his throat.
The tension and worry he'd been carrying for weeks started to lift, and he felt his knees going weak at the realization that Severus was here. He hadn't left, he hadn't lost him. He gripped his robes tighter and sobbed into his chest.
"Merlin, I am so sorry..." Severus whispered close to his ear "I didn't realize I was hurting you so much..."
Harry only nodded, letting the tears fall, and burrowing his face in his clothes. He heard Severus whispering apologies in his ear, along with sweet words he himself had said to him in times of need. The thought made him feel slightly warm and fuzzy inside, the fact that Severus had observed and learnt what to do when Harry was in need.
Severus's robes still had that hint of that foul smell, but Harry could still distinguish traces of honey and sandalwood, and he breathed in. Listening to Severus's steady heartbeat resounding in his chest, his sobs started to diminish.
When he finally felt calmer, Harry pushed him away a bit, wiping the tears from his face. Why he was feeling so emotional, he couldn't say... but the thought of losing Severus, or worse, of pushing him into doing something he didn't want... it scared him to death.
"Okay," Harry said after he'd regained his composure. He shook his head and focused his eyes on Severus "come on, tell me. You've been working on it for weeks, so it must be something important. What does this potion do?"
He felt Severus's piercing gaze on him, so alike Rosie's, as if he was scrutinizing him. Then, as soon as he'd felt his eyes on him, they drew away.
"How would you feel about... taking care of a baby?"
Harry was surprised at the sudden change of topic and frowned, narrowing his eyes.
"I already do" Harry answered. Then, his hands went towards Severus's curtain of black hair. He put the strands behind his ear, his fingers caressing his ear with tenderness.
For weeks Harry hadn't felt courageous enough to do this. And Merlin, how he had missed it. His fingers trembled as they caressed his ear and cheek, feeling Severus's warm skin under the fingertips.
"I do that every day, don't I? Even when you don't want me to."
Severus had the deference to blush a bit, and then he shook his head.
"I meant... a real baby."
Harry's eyes opened wide at those words. Severus's demeanour confirmed it. He was avoiding his eyes, his gaze fixed on his boots, his shoulders hunched.
"You mean... literally?" Harry asked, "this potion would... transform you into a baby?"
"If my calculations have been correct, I would be about one year old" Severus answered "I was wondering if... we might try it... for a day."
His voice trailed off, unsure.
But Harry himself felt exhilarated inside. A sudden relief washed over him, and new hope was kindled in his heart.
"I wouldn't ask this of you, I know how mad it sounds..." Severus said. But Harry shook his head.
"Sev. Look at me, please," he said.
Severus looked up, his eyes a mixture of feelings. Harry could see the fear of rejection in the way they were wide, his pupils dilated. But he could also see hope. Hope to be a baby for once, hope to finally be a boy not only mentally, but also physically.
"I was terrified you wanted me gone, and here you were, making something to bring us even closer together," Harry said. His hand went back to his hair and caressed it in soft, gentle movements. "I know it's scary, but you have nothing to be afraid of. I will never say no to you."
"Not even to look after a real baby for an entire day?"
"Especially if you ask this of me" Harry answered with a smile "we can try this potion and spend the day together. We could even have an outing, spend the day away from the castle, somewhere we can be ourselves."
Severus's breath hitched.
"Really? Are you willing to... do this?"
Harry only smiled. Then, he reached with his tiptoes and kissed Severus's cold cheek, feeling the stubbled cheek contrast with his lips. He had neglected to shave on the last two days, probably wanting to finish the potion as soon as possible.
"Am I willing to look after my baby Sev? I would absolutely love to" Harry whispered with a wide smile.
Harry hadn't realized, but the tension that had been previously crushing Severus's seemed to fade from him the moment those words left his lips. His arms wrapped around the young man again, pulling him in, but this time he wasn't the one offering comfort. He was seeking it.
His back hunched a bit so he could hide his face in his neck. His hands were grabbing Harry's robes, he could feel his clutch on his back, and Harry responded to the embrace with the same fierceness.
"Of course I want to do this, Severus" Harry confirmed, turning his head slightly and pressing a kiss against his temple "I was so scared you wanted me gone... but this, this is utter bliss."
"Are you sure...? This is demanding something else from you" Severus whispered, pulling away from him a bit. He focused his black eyes on him, wide with wild trepidation. "I'd be a literal baby for a day, you will have to take care of every need."
"Like I always do," Harry said, still smiling "that doesn't worry me, Sev."
Severus nodded, and Harry kissed the tip of his nose.
"Although, if something like this happens again, we will have to find a way of communicating" Harry added. "We spent weeks miserable because we didn't speak, and we made the wrong assumptions, especially me."
"I know. I never properly warned you of this rather bad habit of mine" Severus answered, his voice sounding regretful. "I tend to shut myself off and bark at anyone who comes close. But I had no right to treat you this way. I apologise."
"It's okay" Harry reassured him "we'll find a way to talk if it happens again. Right?"
After fixing their misunderstanding, they spent the evening throwing ideas back and forth. They spoke about things they could do and things they would need if Severus was a real baby.
"Oh, and also a baby carrier or sling" Harry added. He wrote the words on a piece of parchment they'd fished out from Severus's pile on the living room table.
They'd moved from the private lab to their living room. Harry, happy to escape the horrible smell, sat in front of the fireplace and Severus sat close to him as they came up with ideas. Harry basked in his closeness. He felt his body warmth close to him, his long and strong arms only a few inches away, his bony toes wriggling as he placed them close to the fire. Merlin, how he had missed this.
"A carrier? What for?"
"Because if we're going to go out, I'd rather have you close to me," Harry said "I don't want a stroller."
"You want me on you all day?" Severus asked, "but Harry, that's not..."
"I know, I know... your parents didn't do that" Harry said "but things have changed in the last decades, there are many ways to look after babies now, so many choices. And this is mine. I want to carry you around like the proud parent I am."
Those words managed to make Severus's cheeks flush and he hid his face with his hair, looking down in embarrassment. Harry only laughed, placing a warm hand on his shoulder and squeezing.
The entire time he'd been feeling a warm, bubbling feeling inside his chest; like he could burst into hysterical laughter at any minute. His cheeks hurt from smiling, and he felt exhilarated and so, so relieved.
He chuckled, still with his hand on Severus's shoulder, and he locked eyes with the man that had stolen his heart. Utterly and completely. He got lost in those black pools of darkness, distinguishing warmth and so much emotion that they held. He felt like he was floating.
"You mentioned an outing... have you got a destination in mind?" Severus asked a while later.
"As a matter of fact, I do," Harry said with a smile "Aberdeen."
"Aberdeen? At this time of year?" Severus asked. Harry only shrugged.
"It's nice, and we're already used to the cold of the dungeons," he said with a wink, Severus scoffed "I went there for Christmas shopping, and it was beautiful. And there are tons of things to do, especially for little kids."
And so it was, on a Saturday in late February, Harry woke up early. He felt refreshed and excited about the day ahead.
Severus was sleeping next to him. He felt his lips tugging in a smile when he looked to his left and saw him, as beautiful as he always was in the mornings. It was still somewhat dark, so Harry could only see so much without glasses and with minimal light. But he could still see Severus's hard features, his crooked nose and high cheekbones. His relaxed expression, his brow free of wrinkles and frowns. His pale skin and dishevelled black hair, which he was dying to tangle his fingers on. His mouth was a bit open, his breathing still deep and regular. He was still deep in slumber.
Harry stretched in bed and started to become aware of his limbs as he did so. Severus was pressed against him, as close as he could. One of his legs was on top of his, his arm around his stomach as he kept him near. It felt as if, even asleep, Severus was making sure Harry wasn't going anywhere.
His heart warmed at the sight.
After their argument a few days ago, Severus had taken steps to ensure his behaviour towards Harry changed. He wasn't an affectionate man by nature, especially not in public, but he made sure to let Harry know he was respected and very much wanted in his life. His big hands would always find his arm or shoulder to squeeze or bump into, he would make sure Harry always had his favourite foods in reach at the table. And at night, Severus curled up against him, as close as he could.
Harry smiled as he watched Severus sleeping next to him. Six months ago he would've never imagined he would be sharing a bed with Severus Snape, of all people. Even less that he would be extremely happy when he was the first thing he saw in the morning.
But that was what he felt. He felt exhilarated when he opened his eyes and saw an asleep Severus Snape, breathing deeply and with no scowl in his features. And he felt even more blissful in the dead of night, when he got in bed and instead of feeling a cold, empty space beside him, he felt a warm body next to him.
But Harry was impatient. He wanted to make the most of that day, and that began by starting early.
He shifted in bed, laying on his side and placing his hand on Severus's face. He tangled his fingers on his hair, gently brushing it away from his cheeks and caressing the strands with utmost delicacy. He felt Severus groan in his sleep and Harry smirked.
"Good morning, Severus" Harry whispered as he leaned and kissed his forehead "come on, wake up..."
"Mmmh" Severus complained, trying to bury his face against Harry's chest, but Harry laughed.
"Oh come on, Sev" Harry exclaimed. Then, his fingers found Severus's ribs and began to poke him.
Severus squirmed and yelped, suddenly trying to move away from him.
"No, no, Harry, stop!" he exclaimed until he finally opened one eye "alright, alright, I'm awake!"
Harry laughed at his still sleepy expression, one of his eyes still closed. Then he leaned over again and pressed a kiss, this time on his cheek.
"Happy little day, my dear Severus" he whispered with a soft voice.
Severus's expression seemed to light up at Harry's words
"Today?" he asked, and Harry smiled as he saw his barely contained excitement. He chuckled.
"Yes, it's today" Harry confirmed, his smile wider "I've got a little something for you..."
Then, he grabbed his wand from the nightstand and flicked it. A small package floated to Severus's lap.
"For me?" he asked. Harry nodded.
"Come on, open it," he said.
Severus unwrapped the gift, it was a carton rectangular box. He opened it and inside it there were clothes. But they were baby clothes. He took them in his fingers, his eyes fixing on the black sweater and comfortable-looking joggers.
When Severus turned to him, his eyes were misted. Not a single teardrop had fallen from his eyes, but they were glistening in the slightly darkened room. Despite the mist in his eyes, he smiled wide, so much that he showed his yellowed teeth and the dimples appeared on his cheeks.
And then, incapable of saying a word, he lunged himself to Harry's arms, who was already waiting for him. Severus pressed himself against Harry, hiding against his neck, his face resting on his shoulder.
"Thank you... thank you, thank you..." he whispered against him. His voice was raspy and cracked at the last words, as he pressed himself further.
"Anything for my baby" Harry answered as he wrapped his arms against his overgrown boy. He turned his head and kissed his temple "I hope you liked it. I thought you could use it today, what do you think?"
Severus only nodded against him, still much too overwhelmed to answer, it seemed. Harry chuckled and maintained his warm embrace, keeping him close.
They soon got out of bed, ready and excited to start their day. They had breakfast in their quarters, and got dressed in record time. Harry put everything they'd bought inside a bag, and shrunk it so it would fit inside one of his pockets.
As soon as they were ready, they walked up the stairs to the front door of the castle.
"Ah, my boys!" they heard a voice coming from atop of the stairs.
Harry turned around and saw Dumbledore staring at them, his white beard hiding a smile.
"Are you going out today?" the man asked as he descended the stairs and stopped in front of them.
"Yes, we are, Albus" Severus answered, "but if you need us to cancel, we can..."
"Oh, no worries, we can handle things here" Dumbledore said, "you two have fun!"
Harry didn't miss the mysterious and amused twinkle in his eyes behind his half-moon-shaped glasses. He scoffed as he turned around and walked towards the front door.
"Blasted man" Severus whispered close to his ear as they crossed the grounds, walking past the Qudditch pitch "how does he do know everything?"
"I've always assumed it was a Headmaster thing. But I deduce it wasn't your case when you were Headmaster" Harry said as he smiled. Severus only shook his head.
"I had other things in my mind, but I can assure you. It has nothing to do with the title" Severus answered "that's just his personality. And it's annoying."
Harry giggled.
"At least he knows we're out in case of emergency. Which I'm sure will not happen" Harry said, "come on, let's get out."
Together they walked at a brisk pace. Harry was fit, but he could hardly keep up with Severus long strides. Soon, they were outisde the main Gates and the anti-apparition wards.
"Ready?" Harry asked, offering his arm.
Severus nodded once and grabbed his cloaked arm, and together they disappeared into a swirl of black.
The first thing Harry realized was the smell of iodine and salty water hitting his senses. He opened his eyes and realized they'd apparated close to the spot he'd come last time when he'd been Christmas shopping, at the deserted beachfront. He knew, without turning around, that behind him there were a few stairs and behind them, Queens Links Leisure Park.
It was still early in the morning, so it was a bit cold and humid, but it wasn't raining or snowing, and the wind wasn't as strong as at Hogwarts. He looked to his right and saw Severus admiring the view. The sky was blue with only a few clouds and the sun was shining, it was a beautiful winter day.
Together they walked up the stairs towards the Leisure Park. They walked through the entrance, straight to the lavatories. Harry made sure to get into the one with a baby changer in it, once Severus was a baby he would have to dress him up.
He felt Severus's tension as he walked next to him, he seemed so anxious he wasn't speaking, his face a carefully set mask. For the untrained eye, his mask perfectly concealed his anxiety and trepidation. But Harry could read it in the way his eyes darted around them, aware of potential threats. In the way his arms were a tad too tense, his hands clenched, one of them curled around his wand in a firm hold inside his inner pocket.
Finally, they walked to the lavatory and locked the door behind them. Harry looked around, the room was spacious, and the changing mat was big enough for a one-year-old kid.
"Okay. Here we go" Harry said, the reality of what they were about to do settling in.
Severus took out the vial from his pocket, his hands shaking as he did so. Harry stopped him before he could uncork the vial.
"Hey, wait a second. Look at me," Harry said.
Severus did what he was asked, but his eyes were wide.
"Sev, are you sure about this? We can leave it if you want" Harry asked.
"I do" Severus answered "it's just that... nobody has tried this before. I am not even sure it works."
"I'm sure it does. And if it doesn't, you've told me what I should do" Harry reassured him.
Then, he walked a couple of paces between them, closing the distance and wrapping his arms around the man.
"I understand you are anxious, I am too. But if you think you are not ready, we can leave it for another day" Harry spoke, his voice only above a whisper "okay?"
Severus nodded once, swallowing, as he seemed to think. Harry didn't want him to reconsider, but his first priority was Severus's wellbeing. And he wasn't about to put that at risk because he desired to have a little baby for the day.
"No, I am sure" came Severus's answer, his voice strong and steady.
"Okay then," Harry said as he unwrapped his arms and took a step back. He observed as Severus took off most of his clothes and left them on a pile on the baby changer, perfectly folded. He stood there, clad only in his underwear and socks.
Then, he took the vial and uncorked it. Harry looked at him in the eye, smiling encouragingly as he nodded once, and Severus nodded too. Then, he downed the liquid in a single gulp.
For the next seconds, nothing happened. Severus corked the vial again and left it on top of his clothes, and he didn't seem to feel anything abnormal.
And then, Harry started to see it. His usually large hands, with long and slender fingers, started to shrink. He started to lose height and became shorter and shorter, his hair started to be shorter too. His nose, ears, all his face was changing.
In the blink of an eye, Severus Snape, the Potions Master, was nowhere to be seen. In his place there was a beautiful baby boy, of around one year old, with short black raven hair and piercing black eyes.
The boy looked left and right, shivering, and small tears started to fill his eyes. And then, he scrunched his face and he wailed.
That wail prompted Harry, who had been staring at the baby utterly dumbfounded, into action. Merlin's beard, it had worked! But now, he had a wailing baby to look after.
"Heyyy, hey shhhh" he said as he quickly picked up the baby from the floor. He spoke in hushed and calm tones "hello, little darling. It's okay, we'll get dressed soon so you're not cold, okay?"
The baby nodded and sniffled, but as soon as Harry tried to sit him on the baby changer, his wails picked up again. His little fingers were grasping at his cloak, and he was trying to hide his face in Harry's neck. He very obviously didn't want to be left on the changer.
Harry furrowed his brow, trying not to get worried.
He gently cuddled the naked boy against him and he swayed him from side to side, with slow and repetitive movements. He whispered near his ear, trying to calm him down, and inside praying he didn't have any accidents without his diapers on. The boy cried against him, but soon his sobs changed in tonality, it seemed the fright of the first moment had passed.
When he heard his sobs were diminishing, he pushed him a bit away from him so he could look at him. He observed his face and clearly recognized his beloved Potions Master in the face of this baby. Not only in the dark eyes and hair, but also in the shape of his lips, and even his cheekbones, although they were now covered in a bit of baby fat.
Baby Severus was thin, much too thin for a one-year-old baby, but he assumed that was how he had been when he'd been young. Harry was sure to correct this, though.
"Hey, Sev," he said, calling his attention. He saw Severus fixing his eyes on him, and Harry used his free hand to wipe his tears away "do you know who I am?"
Baby Severus nodded once.
"Dada," he said, and his little hands went to his bearded face.
And then, leaving Harry so shocked he almost dropped the child, Severus leaned forward and pressed quite a wet kiss on Harry's cheek. It took Harry a second to react. When he did, he felt his chest bursting with emotion and love for this little baby, and he smiled the widest smile he'd ever felt his lips doing.
"That's right, dada's here" Harry reassured him "now, I have to get you dressed so you don't get cold, okay? Can you sit down?"
Severus nodded again, and this time, he let Harry place him on the changer without fussing.
Harry then went to take out the bag from his inner pocket and unshrink everything. Severus sat on the mat, quietly observing him, as Harry took out his clothes and a clean nappy.
"Okay, little man. Let's get dressed" Harry said as he gently pushed the baby on his back.
Severus kept moving his arms, trying to grasp at the small particles of dust floating in the air. But otherwise, he kept quiet and Harry could take off his big socks and put him on a nappy. He then helped him sit up, and was surprised when Severus helped him to put on his clothes. Soon, the baby was clad in his new joggers, a T-shirt and his new black sweater. And Harry could admit, right there and then, that Severus looked adorable in his toddler clothes.
"Right, you're all set," Harry said as he admired the baby all dressed and smiled "you're so beautiful, Severus."
Harry had been sure he didn't understand most of the things he was saying. He'd read that it was good for the development of babies to speak to them, even if they can only understand small commands or isolated words. However, this wasn't a normal baby, and Severus did blush at Harry's words. Perhaps he could understand him.
Harry couldn't help it. He leaned forward and pressed a kiss on Severus's cheek. The most wonderful sound erupted from the child, and when Harry looked at him, he was smiling. He had laughed! Harry did it again, and again Severus laughed in delight. And Harry laughed too, emotion overwhelming him at seeing Severus so happy.
"Right, what do you say we go outside and play? Hmm?" Harry asked as he put Severus's big clothes and socks and the empty vial in his bag. Then, he took out the baby carrier. When he saw it, Severus let out a happy squeal, reaching with his hands up towards Harry.
"Do you want this, huh?" Harry asked with a smile "no worries, I'll pick you up in no time!"
Harry stretched his arms and picked up the boy, ready to place him in the carrier. When he was about to do so, though, Severus wrapped his little arms around his neck and rested his head on his shoulder. Harry smiled, a warm and fuzzy feeling settling in his stomach as he returned the hug the baby was giving him. One of his hands supported him under his bum, while the other went to caress his short baby hair. It was soft to the touch, much softer than adult Severus's, but still nice under his fingertips.
Soon after, Harry placed Severus in the carrier. As soon as the last security checks were done he walked around the room, testing how it felt to be carrying a baby with him. Severus babbled around, his little hands playing with the texture of the fabric of Harry's cloak.
"I think we're ready," Harry said. Then, looking once more behind him to make sure they hadn't left anything behind, he walked outside the room.
Severus was excited, that couldn't be denied. He kicked his little feet and squealed, pointing at this or that thing as soon as they walked out of the bathroom. Harry cheered him, speaking to him and prompting him, which resulted in more babbling and baby talk. It was utterly adorable.
Harry walked outside the Leisure Park, where he had noticed there was a playground area. As he walked, he briefly wondered how anyone could've hurt this beautiful and innocent child. He had only had about five minutes with him, but anyone could see he was very special. How his parents had neglected and downright abused him, a mere child, Harry had no idea. But he was about to set it straight, he was about to give little Severus the best and most fun day of his life.
The weather seemed to agree with him too, the sun was shining and it wasn't too cold for late February, they could be outside quite comfortably. As Harry walked, his hand was placed on Severus's back atop the carrier, for support. It was an incredible sensation. To feel the weight of another human being so close to him, his little feet kicking his legs, his voice as he babbled and giggled. He hadn't stopped smiling once, and Harry smiled too, relieved and quite emotional. Never, not even when he was Little, had he seen him so happy and carefree.
They arrived at the playground area, full of swings, climbers, bridges, slides, a sandbox and many more things. Severus was too little to play on the bigger things, but he still could have fun in many of these facilities. The playground was deserted but one mother with a boy, who left soon after Harry and Severus arrived. Harry smiled as he stopped and looked at Severus, his green eyes focusing on his dark ones.
"What would you like to do first, sweetheart?" Harry asked. After so many months together, terms of endearment already came naturally to him, but with a literal baby Severus, it was almost impossible not to.
Severus babbled and pointed at the swings. And so Harry took him out of the carrier and placed him inside the smallest one, which was for younger children. Harry began to gently push Severus, back and forth, back and forth. He was hardly moving, Harry was careful not do to anything too drastic, but Severus squealed in delight as he was being pushed forward. The wind hit him in the face and he yelled and laughed again, clapping with his hands. Harry couldn't stop smiling, it was so endearing to see him having so much fun.
After a while of swinging, Severus pointed at the slides, and Harry obliged in placing him at the top and helping him in sliding down the surface. Severus laughed and cooed, wanting to do it again and again, until Harry's arms were burning from the repetitive movement.
Wanting a bit of a respite, as well as having the chance to observe Severus play on his own, he settled him in the sandbox and took out some toys from his bag. A couple of buckets, a shovel and a rake was all Severus needed to set to work. His little hands grabbed the toys and began to observe them, testing how they worked before he used them. And then he began to play with the sand, filling the buckets and emptying them up. He laughed when he turned the bucket around and the sand ended up on the floor; and repeated the process again. Harry interrupted him a couple of times to give him some water with a sippy cup, but other than that, he let him play and observed him.
After a long while of playing, Harry felt his stomach growl, and he saw that Severus was rubbing his eyes with his closed fists. He was beginning to get tired.
"Okay, little man," Harry said as he knelt down in front of him "what do you say we have some lunch and a nap? Eh?"
Severus didn't protest when he felt Harry's hands under his armpits. He pulled him to his feet to get the sand out of his clothes before he placed him in the carrier.
"Don't go to sleep yet, baby" Harry whispered as he felt Severus resting his face against his chest. But it was impossible, Severus nodded off in a second. The playground had exhausted him, apparently.
He shrugged his shoulders and decided to get some lunch for him. After all, he could ask some for Severus and keep it hot until he could wake him up from his sudden nap.
He walked back to the Leisure Park, avoiding the several dozens of people who crowded together in fast food chains. He looked for a quiet, small restaurant he'd seen the first time he visited, and soon he saw it.
He walked inside, already feeling hungry from the smell only.
He heard a small whine from the vicinity of his chest, and he saw Severus had lazily opened one of his eyes and was rubbing at the other, still tired.
"Morning, sleepy ape. You didn't sleep much, but I guess you're hungry" Harry said as he caressed his hair and kissed the top of his head. "Let's get some lunch, okay?"
Harry sat down at one of the tables at the far end, where the noise didn't bother them. As soon as they spotted him, one of the waiters brought a high chair for him to sit Severus in, and he thanked the man for his forward thinking. The waiter took his order, and since the restaurant wasn't too busy, they didn't have to wait long for their food to arrive.
When the food arrived, Harry was ravenous. But first, he decided to feed some of the food to Severus, who was beginning to grow fussy and grumpy at being in the high chair.
Harry understood, he wasn't used to having restricted movements. And when he had, he'd been pressed against Harry all the time. He constantly stretched his arms, whining and fussing, all the while making 'grabby hands' and begging Harry to pick him up.
"It's alright, darling, it's just so we can eat" Harry tried to explain, but Severus shouted "NO!" and he hit the table with his little hand.
"Severus come on, don't misbehave" Harry warned him, trying to give him some food. But Severus shook his head, shouting NO again and again. Then, his dark eyes filled with tears and he began to cry.
What broke Harry's heart was that it wasn't a tantrum cry. He was familiar with those, having seen them for years in his cousin Dudley. Whenever he didn't get his way, Dudley shrieked, yelled, kicked, hit and created a scene until his parents, usually his mother, gave him what he wanted.
But Severus didn't kick his legs. He didn't hit the table, and most importantly, he didn't shout and scream like a banshee. He only stretched his arms again, tears flooding his reddened cheeks and pleading Harry to pick him up. Harry was about to not do it, wanting to show him he wouldn't get his way every time he demanded it, but he had no heart to refuse him.
In a gentle movement, he placed his hands under Severus's armpits and lifted him up. He felt awful when Severus hid his face against his neck and cried in earnest.
"Hey, Sev... it's alright, nothing happened..." Harry whispered, rubbing his back up and down in soothing motions "shhhh it's okay, I'm right here..."
He rubbed his back in a soothing manner and rocked the child back and forth until he heard his cries calming down. Then he sat him on his lap, and he dried away his tears with his thumbs.
"It's okay, I understand. No high chair, okay?" Harry said, and Severus nodded, sniffling sadly. Harry smiled "come on, it isn't that bad. Ready to eat?"
He sat Severus on his lap facing the table. Having only one functional hand, while the other was curled up around the toddler to keep him securely in place, Harry saw no other solution. He looked at his surroundings to make sure nobody was watching them. When he was satisfied, his fingers curled up around his wand in his front pocket, and he cast a wordless cutting spell. At least now both dishes were cut in reasonable pieces, Severus's even smaller so he could chew, and he could use his hand to feed the baby and himself.
It took them a long while to finish, but Harry didn't mind. They weren't in a rush, they didn't have to go anywhere, so they took their time eating and making sure Severus was finishing his food. He made a mess of his clothes, and Harry hadn't had the forethought of putting a bib on him, but it didn't matter. He would have to change him soon anyways.
Which reminded him, Severus hadn't had an accident all morning. He padded his bum and it felt dry. He gave him some water in his sippy cup and saw him rubbing his eyes again, this time more insistently.
So, knowing what came next, Harry placed Severus inside the carrier. It took him very little to nod off, Harry was still surprised at how easily baby Severus fell asleep.
Once he was asleep, his little thumb in his mouth, Harry finished his own already cold meal. He wasn't mad, though, he knew this was what having a baby meant. He simply enjoyed munching on his roast chicken while feeling Severus's soft breaths against his chest.
After he finished, he went to the bar, to pay for their meal.
"What a beautiful baby boy you have there!" said one of the waiters when she turned around and saw the baby in the carrier. Harry only smiled.
"Yes, he's the apple of my eye" Harry admitted, not lying in the slightest and feeling great being able to say it out loud.
"What a dear, helping the mother around," the woman said.
"Oh no, ma'am. I'm not helping, he's mine" Harry answered, focusing his eyes on her.
"Well yes, but I assume the mother is somewhere around here, isn't she?" she asked, gesturing to the shops outside the restaurant.
"No, ma'am" Harry declared with a smile on his face "single parent, and in love with the job. How much is it?"
The woman began fumbling with the machine, which started beeping incessantly. Harry gave her the muggle money, nodding when the woman offered her apologies, and he never stopped smiling.
"No worries, ma'am. Next time, don't jump to conclusions" Harry added before he winked at her and disappeared.
It felt good.
It felt so good to be enjoying a day out with his toddler and to correct wrong assumptions of people. He knew the waitress had the best intentions at heart, praising him for "helping out" with the kid. But he also knew that no woman would've received praise for doing what he was doing, carrying his child and looking after him.
Harry walked around the Leisure Park, looking for things to do until he heard soft grunting and whining. Then, the small body he was carrying went rigid, and a tell-tale noise told him what was happening.
He didn't have time to say a word, the next second Severus was screaming and sobbing against his chest, utterly miserable. Tears and snot ran down his face and Harry felt his heart clenching. Would he be having flashbacks right now? He dearly hoped not, he didn't know what could happen if Severus had a flashback in this state.
"Shhhh it's okay, Severus... you're okay, we're going to get changed soon" Harry cooed and spoke softly to him, stroking his head as he rushed to the lavatories. As soon as he located the baby changer one he opened the door and walked inside, locking the door behind him.
"Shhhh it's alright Sev, it's alright..." he whispered, but Severus wasn't listening.
As soon as he felt the carrier unfastened, his wails grew in volume. He gripped Harry's clothes tight and pressed himself against him with as much strength as he could, sobbing desperately. Harry held him tight, rocking him and speaking to him in soft tones, waiting for his sobs to die down.
"Hey" he whispered a while later when Severus was softly sniffing.
The boy fixed his eyes on him, his lower lip still trembling, and Harry pressed little kisses on his forehead.
"It's okay, darling. You're safe, it was only an accident" Harry said "I'll clean you up and you'll be nice and warm in a second. Okay?"
Harry kept kissing him and speaking to him, especially when he laid him down on the baby changer. He kissed his temple, his cheeks, his nose, his chin, and his baby hands; all the while caressing and stroking his hair or his tummy. After a long while, Severus seemed to be calm enough for Harry to undress and change him.
Sure enough, the nappy was wet, messy and stinky. Not wanting Severus to feel worse than he already did, he praised him as he cleaned him. He told him how proud he was that he'd done his business in his nappy like a little boy, and how he was so happy to be his dada. Anything, Harry thought, to keep the bad memories at bay and perhaps create new, better ones.
His warm hands, along with his soft movements and sweet words, calmed Severus further. By the time he'd been changed and dressed again, he wasn't crying anymore.
However, he hadn't reverted to his usual, happy self either. He made grabby hands, begging Harry to pick him up, and the Gryffindor obliged. As soon as he was placed in the carrier again, Severus started to suck his thumb, emitting low and sad sniffles every once in a while.
"Hey, Sev," Harry said "I've got something for you. Do you want it?"
Harry produced his Slytherin pacifier, and Severus reached with his little hand until he gripped it. Then, with some help from Harry, he directed it into his mouth, and he started to suck avidly.
"It's alright, my love" Harry whispered, caressing his hair in soft, gentle motions "calm down now. You're safe."
Harry thought a bit of fresh air would work wonders for them, so making sure they were both warm, he walked outside the Leisure Park. But this time, he left the park and walked towards the harbour. The marine breeze felt chill against his face, but it wasn't as cold as he'd imagined.
The baby wasn't sleeping, but he seemed to be much calmer, and Harry decided to descend down the beach and walk along the sand. Feeling brave, he undid his shoes and pushed his trousers up, and got close to the water.
It was freezing, and Harry jumped at the contact. But what made him stare in shock was Severus's reaction. He was laughing.
Harry did the same, letting the water touch the tip of his toes, and being more dramatic in jumping at the contact. And Severus laughed again. His laughter was pure and crystalline, and Harry was happy to see the sadness of the accident had lasted only a little while.
He decided to play the game with Severus. He unfastened the carrier and placed Severus on the sand, grabbing his hand for support. He toddled a bit, walking on unstable legs until the water came close to them again. Harry got ready to grab him as soon as the water hit his feet. And then he screamed "whooaaa" as he took Severus from the armpits and made him jump, avoiding the cold water. Severus squealed, exhilarated, and he clapped with his hands.
Harry kept this a few times until Severus seemed to be tired of jumping up and down. Then, they retreated a few feet away so the water wouldn't be a danger to their feet, and they walked along the beach. Or rather, Harry walked as he helped Severus toddle along. Soon Severus was tired and was asking Harry to pick him up again. He had an adorable way of asking to be held, pressing himself against his legs and raising with his arms, opening and closing his hands as he did so.
The Gryffindor did not make him wait and he placed him in the carrier. Then, he heard Severus yawn.
"I think someone's getting tired," Harry said. No wonder, he had slept but his naps had been too short, and they'd had plenty of activity "don't worry, we'll go home soon."
Severus didn't seem to notice, as he was sucking on his Slytherin pacifier again. And he nodded off, out to the world in a minute. Harry smiled and shook his head, walking along the beach a bit more.
It was peaceful here. He didn't have to worry about teaching, about Dumbledore, about House Points, or anything at all. Here, he was only a parent, having a nice Saturday out with his kid.
Suddenly, he felt something tugging at his chest.
Knowing what was happening, but having expected it to happen a bit later, he rushed to sit down. He unfastened the carrier, settling the barely awake child on the sandy beach. Harry had time enough to throw a big blanket from inside his bag, at the same time that he saw movement under it. Soon, a couple of arms and two bonny and hairy legs appeared, and an adult Severus peeked from under the blanket.
"Hello," Harry said with a smile "welcome back! I thought this was supposed to happen later?"
"It was," Severus said, and his voice sounded strangely hoarse. He pointed at the bag, and Harry understood.
He passed his clothes to him, and he saw him attempting to get dressed under the blanket. Thankfully, it was big enough to cover him. Besides, knowing it would be more comfortable, Harry hadn't packed his usual teaching robes. He had brought a pair of black trousers, a simple T-shirt and a warm sweater he could comfortably get dressed in. Once he was finally dressed, he handed the blanket back to Harry and fumbled with his shoes.
And then, Harry realized, he was having trouble with his motor skills. It seemed that, similarly to when he'd been in Little headspace, he also had some difficulties bouncing back when he'd been a physical baby for a day.
"Let me help you with that" Harry offered with a smile.
He knelt down in front of him, and put his right shoe in the right foot, doing his shoelaces as he did so.
"Are you okay, Sev?" Harry asked, glancing at him as he tied his other shoe.
Severus only nodded.
"Strange. But fine" he answered, but his voice still sounded hoarse.
Harry furrowed his brow, but let it pass. He guessed it was strange for Severus too, to be an adult again after an entire day of being a baby. He sat down next to him, looking at the beach and the horizon, and realized the sun was about to set.
Harry saw he'd guessed correctly when, after only a minute or two, Severus rested his body against him. He pressed his head against his shoulders, sniffling. Harry was right, he was feeling out of sorts. But Harry was going to make it better.
"It's alright, Severus" he whispered as he kissed his temple, wrapping an arm around his back and swaying him. "I know it's a strange feeling, but it's okay. It'll take some time to get adjusted."
He felt the man burrowing his face against his neck, and he pressed a few soft kisses on his temple and the top of his head. He caressed the long black hair, enjoying how his fingers tangled in it after an entire day of caressing short baby hair. To be honest, he enjoyed both equally.
And then, the changing light caught his attention. He focused his eyes on the horizon and was mesmerized by the spectacle in front of him.
"Look, Severus" Harry whispered close to his ear, his eyes never leaving the orange and pink sky "look at the sky."
Severus moved his head, and Harry heard him faintly gasping and sitting more upright as his eyes focused in front of him. The glowing sun, a crisp circle in the bloody sky, illuminated the water underneath it. It bathed the ocean and the clouds in the sky in a burning red, and as his eyes moved away from the sun, the clouds emitted an orange and pink light.
Harry observed Severus, as he looked mesmerized at the scene unfolding in front of him. His eyes glowed with the intensity of the colours, reflecting them back. Harry had seen starry nights in those eyes, had seen storms bolting in them, but he had never seen such a radiant sunset reflected in them. It was the most beautiful and awe-inspiring thing he'd ever seen.
He felt something cold clasping around his hands, and it took him only a second to realize it was Severus's fingers. They curled around his hand, squeezing, his thumb gently rubbing circles on the back.
"Thank you, Harry" the man whispered, his voice choked with emotion, "thank you for giving me this gift."
Severus's eyes were still focusing on the everchanging sky, not wanting to miss a single second of it, but he squeezed his hand.
"It was my pleasure, my dear Sev" Harry answered with a smile as he reached and kissed his cheek "my pleasure."
The darkness soon engulfed them and the temperature began to drop. Then, together, they made sure they were presentable before they apparated at Hogwarts' Front Gates.
The sunsets from the astronomy tower were astonishing, Harry knew. He'd seen his fair share of them from there. But he had the feeling that the sunset he'd just witnessed, had been the best he had ever seen, and not only because of the beauty of the sky.
Together, Harry and Severus walked through the Front Gates and straight to the dungeons, getting inside their quarters. Harry took off his cloak and took out everything from the bag, pondering what to do with the baby, dirty clothes.
But then, he realized Severus was sitting in front of the fireplace, his knees close to his chest, staring at the dancing flames in silence. Harry sighed. As much fun as Severus had had as a child, he was bound to find being an adult a bit difficult. He sat next to him, one of his hands travelling to his hair.
"Hey" he whispered, calling his attention.
Severus's dark eyes focused on him, and they looked troubled.
"What do you say we have a bottle and some cuddles, eh?" Harry asked.
"You've looked after me enough today, Harry," Severus said as he shook his head, but his voice sounded mournful.
"But I hate to see you're sad now..." Harry whispered.
"It's just that... I have no words to describe how liberating it felt" Severus admitted. Then, he shook his head, his hair following his movement "I think it will take me some time to go back to normal."
"I know..." Harry said. Then, he reached and nuzzled his temple with his nose "let me help you..."
When Severus locked gazes with him, his eyes were filled with unshed tears. Harry wrapped his arms around him, holding him tight as a small, barely contained whimper escaped his lips.
Harry cast an Accio and his Slytherin pacifier came levitating towards him. He reached with his arm until he could grab Severus's blankie. And once he had both things, he encouraged the man to lay on his lap, his arm supporting his back.
Severus wasn't Little, Harry knew that. But he nonetheless offered the man his dummy, and he took it, softly sniffling as he sucked. And Harry held him, kissed him on the forehead, and told him in soft, warm words how much he cared for him.
Soon, the man had nodded off, and Harry held him as he did so. He had the feeling that, after a short nap, Severus would be back to his normal, adult self.
After dinner, though, Harry made sure to allocate time for extra cuddles, and he read him some of the book Bridge to Terabithia. Severus never asked for it, but he could see in the way his eyes looked at him with warm affection, that he had done exactly what he needed. And he smiled, as he read aloud, committing this moment to memory.
And that's it for this week!
I know it was a long chapter, but I hope you enjoyed it. This was a bit different to what I initially had in mind, since I hadn't set out to write about a literal one-year-old Severus, so I'll appreciate it if you leave me your thoughts on it!
Thank you, as always, to those who keep coming to read and comment week after week. If you have suggestions or things you'd like to see, don't hesitate to ask.
I'll see you next week with the following chapter, and in that one Charlie Weasley will be back. OHHH! See you then, have a nice week and be safe!