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Lupin ran up the staircase to Dumbledore's office. He was admitted by a serious Dobby who had been left to guard the patient. It was lunch time and he still did not have the list of ingredients for the wolf's bane potion that had to be made that evening. He sent Dobby down for a quick lunch, including a protein shake if he could get it into Snape.
Approaching the couch he noted the sleeping man had a smile on his face, as if having a pleasant dream. He was almost reluctant to wake him. Almost.
Severus? Sev? he gently shook the exposed shoulder. Was it his imagination or did Snape giggle?
Hi Remus, came the warm response. Lupin stared at the man.
he tried again. This time two bemused eyes opened and a bright smile decorated his face.
Hi Remus. Hold me? the prostrate man held out his arms.
Ok, where's Professor Snape and who the heck are you?
Lupin looked askance at the happy face.
I'm me, Remus. I'm just me, he continued to hold out his arms hopefully. Lupin looked at him closely.
Dr. Barnes gave you that medicine, didn't he, Snape?
Snape happily nodded.
Yes! It will wear off by this evening. So hold me, Remus.
Not until you tell me what stuff I need to get together
for tonight, Lupin bargained, you have to brew my
potion.
Without missing a beat, nor dimming his smile, Snape reached into his shirt sleeve and pulled out his piece of paper.
Here it is! Hold me!
Lupin had to laugh. He put the paper in a pocket and then pushed the hair out of Snape's face.
You're going to be really embarrassed tonight when I
tease you about this cuddling stuff, Sev.
Nope. It's the medicine, he happily waited while Lupin levitated him up and onto his lap. Once there curled against the DADA professor and contentedly sighed.
Actually, Lupin reflected as he started to leave; lunch cleaned up and Dobby back on guard, it was a very nice way to relax. Snape had cuddled up close and drank his shake before falling back asleep. He had to admit he kind of liked the companionship and would miss it once Snape was back on even keel. If a healthy Snape could be considered "even keel".
Dumbledore was coming up to the door as he was going out.
Lupin noted how tired the man looked.
Busy morning? he asked sympathetically.
Horrid. I dislike dealing with some of the less kind
students, Dumbledore rubbed his eyes.
Ah, yes, that little hexing incident. Ravenclaw and Slytherin. Did the students
fess up?
Did you ever 'fess up Remus? he asked with a wry smile. Lupin squirmed as he returned the grin.
That was different, he weakly protested. Then he thought of something.
Hey, Severus is all goofy on Dr. Barnes' power up stuff.
Go and sit with him while he's all cuddly. You'll feel loads
better.
Really? I can't miss Severus Snape goofy, a tired smile graced his face. He walked into his office and called to Dobby to bring him tea. He'd eaten lunch down in the great hall.
On his desk was a note from the doctor explaining the side effects more diplomatically. Warm and drowsy, elevated good mood. Enjoy it while it lasts. Plus the request for the records from Pomfrey. That was easy enough. When Dobby returned he simply sent the elf to secure the file.
The pile of work was still depressingly high. He glared briefly at it but it did not go away. Might as well check on Severus.
His Potions Master was curled happily around his pillow. Yes, there was a silly grin on his face. As he watched the man resting he realized two shining dark eyes were regarding him.
Hi Albus! came the bright greeting, How's your day
going?
Lupin was right. He was goofy.
A little tiring, Severus, he answered truthfully.
I'm sorry. Hold me? Snape asked sweetly, holding out his arms.
Lupin is right, you are silly, Dumbledore responded, but he also levitated the drowsy man up and onto the lounge, sliding in alongside.
He told me he was going to tease me tonight about being
too cuddly, the man sulked. You'd think he'd like
the change.
Yes, you would, Dumbledore replied, gently rubbing his hand over Snape's back. Snape curled into him almost purring in pleasure. As he fell asleep Dumbledore wondered if he could get some of the potion to use when Snape was nasty.
Well, he doubted Barnes would part with a case of the stuff. He smiled softly and sank into the warmth. It certainly was nice to sit back and relax with a warm body to nestle into. A simple pleasure. He stifled a yawn and closed his eyes.

Lupin found them hours later curled up like puppies. Classes done he roused Snape and watched the confusion on his face. A lot of the side effects had worn off. The Potions Master glared at him and tried to return to the warmth of the Headmaster's side. Dumbledore was no help, running a tickling finger up his ribs.
Come on, sleeping beauty. We'd best get you to the
loo and then a bath, Lupin ruffled Snape's hair.
Dobby's right, the man grumbled, you do take a great
deal of pleasure bathing me.
Seeing Dumbledore smile he added,
You too. Both of you like those damned ducks!
I will admit I enjoy taking care of you, you obstinate
creature, Lupin teased. Although you were quite
sweet earlier at lunch.
Damned potion, Snape grimaced at the memory.
And I will also be quite happy not to have to bathe
you once you're back on your feet, Lupin continued, pulling on his arms to have him sit up. Dumbledore peered at him over his glasses.
Feeling a little more awake, Severus? he asked.
Snape stretched a bit and looked about the room. The sun was definitely on the downward side with evening approaching.
Yes, actually, I do feel more awake, he stood with little help and took a few cautious steps towards the washroom. Pleased with his progress he pulled himself upright and looked down at Lupin with the old superior glare.
I certainly have not missed that look, Sev! Lupin said carefully, wondering what was going through the other man's mind. A small smile slipped onto the stern face as Snape reached out for Lupin's arm.
Well, it is a carefully cultivated look. I'll try to tone
it down in private, and he leaned slightly against his friend as they went to the washroom.
Dumbledore sighed as they moved away from him. It was a pleasure to see Snape healing. Mostly.
It also meant he'd soon be able to break that ward charm that had been woven to keep him in these rooms. Dumbledore knew Snape had to return and deal with Voldemort and the circle. He just hoped he could keep him a little while longer.
A knock at the door stole his focus and he stood, adjusting his robes and smoothing back his hair. He went to the door and opened it.
Ah, Mr. Malfoy. A pleasure. Please, come in, he stood back holding the door so that Draco Malfoy could enter his study. The student quickly looked about the room, assessing any potential problems. Dumbledore knew he saw at least two of the sneak-o-scopes whirling silently on the mantel.
I'm sorry to disturb you, Headmaster, drawled the voice that was not sorry in the least but was actually quite nervous.
I just have been concerned about Professor Snape.
Potions class has been, ah, different with Madame Pomfrey,
He spat out the word as though it was distasteful.
I'm sure it has been, Mr. Malfoy. After four and a half
years with Professor Snape it must be an interesting
experience.
He gestured and brought Draco over to his desk, indicating he should take a chair as he himself moved to his own. Draco continued to look about the room. He'd only been here one time before and his father had been very keen on any safeguards the old wizard might have visible. When he returned his gaze to the Headmaster he blushed slightly, having been caught gaping.
I just wanted to see if Professor Snape was all right.
The rest of the house was concerned and I offered to
come up and see him. Let him know we've missed him
and all, Draco stumbled over the pleasantries, not something he was entirely comfortable with. He was good at lying but this light conversation was difficult.
You've just missed him. He's having his bath, Dumbledore put on his most concerned look and poured it on.
He's been quite sick, seemed to have been hexed
while he was visiting friends over a week ago. Professor
Lupin and I have been quite concerned.
We heard, Draco lowered his voice, we heard a healer
had to be brought in. That Madame Pomfrey couldn't
seem to help him.
Well, yes, Madame Pomfrey was having some difficulty
helping Professor Snape. We felt it best to bring him
up here where we could keep a close eye on him while
he healed. Very close eye, and Dumbledore peered at him closely.
We weren't sure exactly when or where the Professor
was cursed and he wasn't able to tell us even after he
came around, he could tell by the look on Draco's face he'd gotten the message across, that they good guys were protecting Snape from the bad guys. Dumbledore oozed goodness.
If you'd like to wait, I will see if he's able to speak
to you for a minute. But only just a minute, Mr. Malfoy,
Dumbledore laid it on a little thick,
he's still quite weak.
Scored with that one.
Maybe I should come back in a few days, say Sunday?
After lunch may be best.
Why, yes, that would be good. He'd be up and
ready for a visitor, I'm sure. Let's say around 2 pm.
I'll let you know if it's all right by Sunday's lunch, and he gave the boy one of his more crocodilian smiles. Oh, yes, trust me and tell your father what we want him to hear. Weak, sick, unavailable.
With few words he ushered the Death Eater's son out the door and closed it firmly behind him. That bought another week, he was sure.
Although it also may have bought him more trouble.

An hour later and the room was again filled with young voices. Harry and Hermione had joined him. In addition Dumbledore was silently pleased that Arthur Weasley's son had come along. He could tell the youth was quite uneasy around Snape but that was fine. A cautious nature was preferable in times like these.
Lupin was rather subdued, too. Most likely because of the potion being prepared. He trusted Snape to brew it properly; the students made him nervous. Now he knew how Snape felt earlier when Hermione wanted to try sending him energy. It was a weird feeling being the lesson instead of merely teaching the lesson.
Snape had easily slipped back into professor mode carefully explaining the ingredients and process before setting the students to task shredding and mincing roots, stems and leaves. Dumbledore himself had gotten caught up in the process and was separating petals selecting the best and unblemished. The cauldron was slowly simmering a water base waiting for the rest.
Hermione was in her element, discussing proper technique for cutting up the ingredients. Snape had never been an accessible teacher for her, at least not in the way she enjoyed it most. Since he did not have to perform for the Slytherin half of the class, Snape was able to assume the role easily answering questions and challenging her with questions of his own. Harry was simply following directions and Ron, well Ron was simply trying to accept Snape wasn't the vicious git he'd heard stories about from five elder siblings.
Dumbledore sighed, remembering having to caution especially Ronald not to tell his siblings anything about Professor Snape except the official line. Fortunately he knew from experience none of these three children gossiped; they had all carried secrets worthy of adult secret keepers.
Better, in fact, than some.
Looking up he realized Snape was staring right at him; the dark eyes piercing into him. Understanding. A very small smile pulled at the man's lip and then he returned his attention to the students who were lining up the materials. He was enjoying this more than he could admit. Maybe this summer at the cottage they could work out some private lessons for this ambitious trio.
He hadn't given too much thought to the summer until now. It seemed so far away and there was so much that could and probably would happen before school's end in June. He missed being able to plan a holiday, even a short weekend away, since the rise of Voldemort. The evil, the unknown, took away most of the pleasures of life.
A touch on his sleeve, and Snape's small smile.
I don't think a gnut would cover them, he said.
Dumbledore returned the smile,
No, not quite.
Ah, the luxury of not having to explain; Snape would understand and did understand much more than anyone realized. He settled back into his chair and watched the true master brew the potion.
Very few had ever really watched Snape brew a real potion, not something for a class. Dumbledore had sat in those cold dungeons many nights, late into the night, as he brewed a variety of potions for both him and for the ministry. He also knew he must have brewed potions at one time for Voldemort. It was his specialty. He briefly wondered what he would want from Snape. He was relatively certain Snape would not brew any poisons for the dark wizard. Snape would not cause any death by hex or potion for that creature. The Headmaster stopped that line of thought.
It was more interesting to watch the potion in progress. Steam was curling up out of the cauldron and wrapping itself around the brewer. He would allow Hermione to stand over the other side, pointing out particular scents as they manifested, certain colors and consistencies that most wizards missed. It was a difficult potion to brew, he himself had messed it up more than once.
Now we let it stew for two hours, Snape was telling the students.
I use a timed charm to keep the heat constant. We'll
add the rest of the leaves after dinner. I'll get up after
midnight to drop in the flowers.
Hermione started to protest, wishing to be there for the entirety of the process. Before Snape could say 'no' Dumbledore stepped in,
Next month, Miss Granger. There will be next month, he smiled to soften the blow.
The position of the moon is important, Miss Granger.
If you like, I will teach you how to plot the actual lunar
position in respect to the brewing of the potion before
next time,
Snape offered a small smile which was reflected by Hermione.
With the potion simmering they turned their attentions towards the table and dinner. Plates were set and large tureens appeared. Students took seats followed by the adults. Lupin looked to Snape, seeing that he was still awake. The energy potion seemed to be doing its job.
They ate quietly, steadily. The kitchen elves had produced a wonderful repast of chicken pot pie that demanded attention. Sliced fruit accompanied the meal as well as several interesting desserts. They managed to clear all the plates and settled back with mugs of hot blackberry tea.
Snape and Hermione added the next set of ingredients, stirring both clockwise and counter clockwise as indicated by the recipe. Snape knew it didn't matter but he also knew Granger was adamant about following directions to the letter and so they did.
The students were then ushered out, the evening done. Dumbledore could see the exhaustion lining Snape's face although the Potions Master strove to remain alert and upright. Lupin left after them wanting to prep for the morning's classes.
Stop by for a gobletful, Snape said, if you start early
you'll have an easier transition next Wednesday.
Lupin grimaced but said he'd come by before classes for his first dose.
As the door closed Snape sank onto the couch, not bothering to sit but lie down flat without pillow or blanket. He was completely asleep before Dumbledore could walk back to him, face slack breathing shallow.
Guess who gets to drop the flowers in tonight? he mused, spreading a blanket over the sleeping man. He alerted Dobby to wake him after midnight and went to bed too exhausted himself to move Snape in with him.

It was well after midnight when Dumbledore woke, noting the moon was riding high in his window. He wondered what the hour was and managed to push the button on the muggle alarm he'd relieved as a birthday gift.
The time is 2 a.m. and 32 minutes, the little voice intoned.
What had happened to Dobby? He wondered if the potion was ruined and pushed himself up and off the bed.
The first thing he noticed was Snape sitting at the table, in the dark sipping tea. He waved on a light and moved closer. He then noted the trembling in Snape's shoulders and the pale face. He sat next to him and poured out tea for himself.
Did the flowers get in on time? he asked as blandly as possible.
Yes, Headmaster, just after midnight, Snape ran a shaky hand through his hair.
I told Dobby not to wake you since I was up.
Very considerate of you, Dumbledore said mildly, reaching out to take hold of Snape's hand. He turned it gently and looked at the fading dark mark. Running his free hand over it he soothed the residual pain. The warding charm still held the man in check.
Come to bed, Severus. You must be tired.
I have to return, Headmaster. I can't ignore the call
forever, Snape just sat, head slightly bowed.
Not forever, Severus. Just long enough to be stronger.
If you went now you'd just be fodder for Malfoy, he began to massage the limp hand.
You know Draco stopped by today, he continued conversationally,
wanted to check up on you and let you know you were
missed.
Snape chuffed.
I let him know you were quite ill still. I'm sure that's why
you're being summoned again. Malfoy would dearly love
to get hold of you right now, he watched Snape carefully and was pleased when he saw agreement.
Yes, that bastard would love to remove me. I'll need to
watch my back around him, he slowly flexed his fingers in Dumbledore's hand.
Thank you for the charm, Albus. I'd have gone as
soon as it began to burn, Snape said softly. Dumbledore smiled and reached up to stroke his cheek.
Come to bed, Severus, he repeated. He stood and pulled Snape up and towards the washroom. He was pleased when the younger man followed him, changing into his sleeping clothes and scrubbing his teeth. When Snape tried to curl away from him he simply flipped him over with a quick charm.
the Snape groused. Dumbledore just chuckled smugly and pillowed Snape against his shoulder. A few deft back strokes and he slipped into untroubled sleep.