First off, I'm incredibly sorry for making you guys wait so terribly
long for this chapter! I got writers block with it and danced around
the whole thing a lot…so don't be surprised if you find multiple filler
things. I hope the length of this chapter makes up for the long wait,
and again, I hope it doesn't disappoint
This chapter isn't based around a song, and it doesn't have a poem in it either…this is because I honestly couldn't decide on a song I liked best to go with this chapter, so I left it to go one its own
Note: I reposted this chapter with an edit so that Severus and Harry now stand on opposite sides of the aisle...sorry for the confusion, if anyone caught it
Now, after a long wait, I proudly present to you: your final chapter to 'My Worst Fear'
Severus sat in the chair by the fireplace pretending to read a potions book. He wasn't reading because he seemed to find the almost hyperactive movements of his fiancé of five months to be more entertaining. The younger man could be seen bustling about, making "last minute" preparations for the upcoming wedding on Saturday, July 11
As Severus gazed lightly over the top of the book, he saw Dobby disappearing after receiving his orders for the food that was to be served four days from now. After the house elf had gone, Harry began to straighten the sample floral arrangements for the sixth time, but before he could even begin, his gaze fell upon the Potion's Master and the smirk that he was sporting
"And what, pray tell, do you find so amusing?" Harry inquired rather harshly, crossing his arms over his chest as he faced the man fully
"Oh, nothing," Severus said while giving his hand a small, dismissive wave before returning to the task of "reading", but this only angered Harry further, apparently
"Oh no you don't, I know you better than that, Severus Snape," the young man said as he stalked over to the chair and had one hand on each armrest by the end of the statement, effectively blocking him in
This did not faze Severus, however, who simple replied coolly, "Do you now? Well, if you know me so well, then what did I find so amusing?"
Harry opened his mouth to answer, but, upon discovering that he didn't know what to say, he closed it once more before responding, "I don't know," he admitted while glaring. The glare turned into a look of pure exhaustion, anticipation and anxiety, and Severus couldn't help but take pity on the other man
"I was merely taking pleasure in watching you run your cute little ass around these dungeon rooms like an over-eager house wife, is all," Severus smirked. He may have pitied Harry enough to enlighten him, but that wasn't going to stop him from stressing the amusement of the situation…he -did- have a reputation to uphold, after all
Harry 'humphed' angrily and then said, "Well if you would help out in planning, I wouldn't have to be running around so much and worrying all the time that -our- day won't be as perfect as it should be"
"You're the one who wanted a big fiasco, Harry," Severus pointed out for the fourth time, "I would've been perfectly happy getting married with only Albus as the minister…and possibly two or so witnesses"
Harry was too exhausted to continue to stand so imposingly in front of Severus any longer, especially when he knew it did absolutely no good anyway, so he walked over to the couch directly across from the other man and sat down heavily
"But, I couldn't leave the Weasley's out…they've been my only real family. And Hermione, she's been with me almost as long as Ron has," Harry explained rather pleadingly, partially because he knew it'd get Severus to back down, and also because he just felt like whining a little bit, to be honest
Well, it worked its magic, because Severus softened immediately, mostly because of the names that were left out
Harry had said nothing about the Dursley's coming, simply because they had refused to "attend a gathering of freaks to honor freaky gayness" (always the eloquent ones with words) and had said they hoped they'd never see him again since he didn't need them anymore, which had been just fine with Harry, who had just invited them as a formality, knowing they'd never come. And Severus was still convinced they would've said all that in a howler had they a) trusted magic and b) knew how to work one
The main reason Severus didn't want to make a big spectacle out of the wedding was not, contrary to popular belief, that he was not a very social or open person (though that did play a part). No, the reason was that he had no one he really cared to be there
His parents were no longer alive, and therefore could not attend, and the only other person he really wanted (or maybe even needed) to see this, besides Harry, of course, was Albus; and the man was running the sermon, for crying out loud! Yes, he'd be fine simply with Harry, Albus and himself there
But coming back to the conversation at hand, Severus said: "I know, Harry, and I understand all that, but I already told you I'm no good at decorations and formal planning that isn't in the form of a class schedule"
Harry arose from his spot on the couch and sauntered back over to Severus' chair and placed himself on the man's lap, so he was straddling his legs and looking him in the eye
Pouting a little, his lower lip sticking out ever so slightly, Harry said: "But it almost seems as though you don't want to even have the wedding, much less participate in it"
Severus rolled his eyes and growled irritably, "Don't want to participate? Harry, I was the one to bloody ask you to marry me! I practically sent you a formal invitation to attend -my- wedding"
"-You- invited -me- to -your- wedding?" Harry asked indignantly, "I think bloody not! By asking me you invited yourself into -my- wedding"
Severus smirked, knowing he'd accomplished his task, "Fine, I invited myself into -your- wedding," Harry gave a triumphant smile at this before Severus continued, "So it's -your- job to plan it how -you- want it," Severus out right smiled at the end as Harry's own smile disappeared
Harry simply sat there, stunned. How had the other man turned the tables on him so easily? "That was a dirty trick," he said, narrowing his eyes
"Almost Slytherin like, would you say?" Severus asked, attempting to keep a straight face and all humor out of his voice, but failing somewhat, causing the comment to anger Harry even more
"Yes, Almighty Head of Slytherin House, -very- Slytherin like. I knew I shoulda went for a Gryffindor," Harry crossed his arms over his chest as his lower lip protruded once more as he pouted for the second time that night
#"Oh please, and give up the Slytherin Sex God?" Severus scoffed, "I think not"
" 'Oh please' yourself! Just because you could sing more songs about your multiple relations then Malfoy could doesn't mean there's not a more talented Slytherin in bed"
"If I recall correctly, you weren't so opposed to it while you were writhing as you pleasured yourself under a conjured shower on the quidditch pitch, in front of the whole school, while I was singing 'Freedom '90' to symbolize our…relations…" Severus countered while raising an eyebrow#
Harry blushed and shifted a little on Severus' lap at the memory of that night, "It's not my fault I was in love with you and your sexy voice and wasn't able to control my emotions"
"Admit it, you didn't want to see Draco win"
"Of course not! If I can lay claim to the Slytherin Sex God, I'll take it," Harry smirked confidently
"Awww, how touching," Severus said, placing a hand over his heart, mocking the words he'd just spoken
Harry just shook his head, as if taunting the older man, as he glared and stuck his tongue out, too exhausted to do anything else beyond that simple act. Severus saw the fatigue, too, and said, "Harry, I would ask you to hand the reigns over to Hermione and Ginny completely and have them finish the plans if I knew there was even the slightest chance you'd comply. However, since I'm more intelligent than that, I'll simply ask that you have them assist you for the next four days"
Harry gave the older man a skeptical look before Severus continued, "Please, Harry? You can't keep this up for that long"
The sincerity of the concern in Severus' eyes caught Harry's heart instantly, and he was agreeing before he even knew what he was saying, "Of course, Sev, I'll ask them tomorrow"
"Thank you," Severus said, kissing the younger man softly, "Now, shall we go to bed?"
"What time is it?" Harry asked, bewildered by the question. He knew he tended to lose track of time while planning, but he didn't think it'd been that long
"10:30 already, and we've got that meeting with Albus in the morning"
"Oh bugger! I completely forgot about that"
"So to bed it is, then," Severus laughed before picking Harry up as he stood and carried the light boy to the bedroom, where both men changed quickly and promptly fell asleep in each others arms
Neither awoke until seven the next morning so they could get ready to be up in the Headmaster's office by eight. As soon as both men were showered and dressed, they made their way up to Dumbledore's office hand in hand
Severus said the password (red liquorish) as they reached the stone gargoyle that blocked the entrance to the office, and Harry knocked when they reached the door to said office. The pair entered only when they heard the Headmaster call to them to do so
Upon entering, Severus sat himself in the chair positioned furthest from the doorway while Harry took the closest
"Tea? Lemon drop?" Dumbledore offered them, though both refused; much too early for sweets, and neither was particularly fond of the old man's tea
"Now, I merely called you up here today to check on preparation progress. So, with that, how -is- the planning coming along?"
"Very well, actually, I think we finally decided on the floral and seating arrangements, as well as the color for our robes, along with the color of yours," Harry replied, ignoring Severus' snort at 'we finally decided'
"Excellent, very excellent," Dumbledore's blue eyes sparkled behind his half moon spectacles as he smiled, "And what color robes are to be assigned?"
"Severus and I will wear matching navy blue dress robes with silver trim, since he refuses to wear anything bright, and I refuse to wear black dress robes on my wedding day," Harry sent a sideways glare towards his lover before continuing, "And you, Albus, will be wearing green dress robes…though a darker shade so as not to contrast too badly with us"
"Sounds wonderful, boys," Dumbledore replied enthusiastically, "that was basically all I needed; unless you two have any questions, comments or great thoughts?"
"Yes, I have one for you, Albus," Severus stated in his stern, teacher voice
"Oh? And what is that, my boy?" Dumbledore asked enthusiastically
"Why in bloody hell did you have to wake me up so damn early, not only during my summer break, but also three days prior to my wedding?!" Severus seethed as both the Headmaster and Harry jumped a good foot in the air from the outburst
Before Dumbledore could answer, however, Harry stood up, grabbed Severus' arm, hauled him out of the chair and then pushed him in the direction of the door while Severus was still glaring daggers at the old man
"Sorry about him, we revisited a touchy memory for us both last night, and I'm afraid he's a tad edgy because of it," Harry explained and Dumbledore smiled once more, "Thank you for your time, Albus," he finished and then they left the office
"What was -that- about?" Harry demanded once they were in the hallway
"What?" Severus feigned innocence, slowly coming out of teacher mode
"If you're not careful, that man's gonna walk out and refuse to perform the ceremony; -then- where would we be?"
Severus laughed, then said, "Walk out on us? -Us-, Harry? He wouldn't ever do that"
"Oh yeah? And what makes you so sure?" Harry asked skeptically
"In case you haven't noticed, dear, we're like his surrogate sons that he never had, whether we want to be or not"
"Well true…but that doesn't mean…" Harry continued his skeptical streak. That is…until Severus cut him off
"Oh yes, Harry, yes it does; it absolutely means that he won't leave us on the happiest day of our lives…and probably one of the happiest for him, as well," Severus said, smugly
"Uck! You're insufferable! You know that, don't you?" Harry said disgustedly as he walked off, leaving Severus standing there, shocked
Severus ran after the younger man, and, when he finally caught up to him, asked, "What'd I say?"
"You think you can just mistreat him like that? I don't understand how you're able to. I know how much he means to you…everything that he means to you…and yet you can still feel no shame in treating him that way?"
"Harry, I was just stating the truth…that's all"
"I know…but think about it, Sev: if you're willing to treat even -Albus- that way, a man who has basically been your father and you both care about each other, what's to stop you from doing that to me?"
Severus felt lost because he had already forgotten what he'd said about the older man, "I…I don't understand, Harry. What's to stop me from doing what?"
"From walking all over me because you know that I care about you too much to let it ruin anything!"
Severus just stood there, too stunned to do anything else, "I would never do that…I promise I'll never do that," he finally said in a desperate voice
"I don't know if I can trust that," Harry stated, equally desperate
"What -can- you trust? What can I do to make you see that I'd never do that?"
Harry thought for a moment as he gazed into Severus' eyes, "Prove to me that you can control the urge to put others down. Prove to me you can be a human being most of the time. Prove to me that your actions are controlled and that I have no reason to fear them," Harry walked closer to Severus, sadness in his eyes, and wrapped his arms around the other man's waist as he buried his face in his neck, before whispering: "Prove to me that you love me too much to ever do it"
Severus lifted Harry's head from his neck by placing two fingers below the others chin and raising it. He looked into the green eyes that he loved so incredibly much…the ones that were so desperate to feel secure; but not secure just anywhere, no, desperate to feel secure in Severus' arms
The older man leaned down slowly, keeping his eyes open and always on the others eyes as he did so, and kissed the other so softly that it was barely felt, putting every feeling of love into it, then pulled away
"I will do all that you asked and more, if that's what it takes for you to trust me again," Severus vowed
Harry smiled, a rather small smile, before arching up and claiming Severus' lips with and as his own in a bruising kiss, "Sounds like a plan," he said once he pulled away
The two proceeded down to their quarters in the dungeons to continue their day. They sat for a little while in front of the fireplace (though it was charmed to not let off any heat, seeing as how it was the beginning of July), content to simply hold each other in their arms, as they were equally lost in their own thoughts
After a nice, quiet lunch, Harry contacted Hermione and Ginny to ask for their help with the planning, to which both readily agreed. With their help, the remaining arrangements were quickly made, and Harry was more rested and happy for it
In no time at all (as it seemed to the pair) it was Saturday morning. For the first time in…at least two years, they didn't wake up in each others arms…or even the same bed…or even the same -room-, because, according to tradition, they were not to see each other at all until the wedding. So in effect, Harry had slept in Gryffindor tower with Ron and Hermione, while Severus remained in the dungeons
Severus awoke the next morning and made to pull his lover in closer, but when all he came across was a pillow (which he had unknowingly placed in his arms the night before to take Harry's place), he growled. After a few seconds of deep consideration, Severus made up his mind and threw the pillow as hard as he could to hit the wall across the room. With doing so, he smiled contently before burying his face in his own pillow once more before growing tired of lying in the bed, hoping Harry would come back in so he could hold him. So as he grumpily rolled out of bed, he was, non-too quietly, cursing the "stupid tradition that was keeping him from seeing his lover…dammit all!"
As for Harry…? Well…he didn't wake up any better then Severus had, except that he had witnesses
"Fuck! I -hate- this!" he yelled when he woke up and remembered he couldn't snuggle into his lovers embrace, effectively waking Ron and Hermione
At the outburst, Ron sat upright in his bed suddenly, looking around frantically, and asked, "What? Wha' happened?'
"I didn't wake up in Severus' arms, that's what happened," Harry said angrily
"Awwww, that's so sweet, Harry," Hermione cooed
"I don't wanna be sweet, I just want my Severus back!" Harry whined and then pouted, folding his arms over his chest
"It's only for," Ron looked at his watch to see that it was 10:09, and then continued, "four hours"
"Why did I let you guys talk me into this?"
"What? Getting married?" Ron asked, genuinely confused
"No, Ron, for "making" him agree to follow tradition," Hermione said, exasperated
"It's not necessary," Harry pointed out for the millionth time
To which Hermione insisted, "But it's tradition," for the counter millionth time
"It's dumb," he pouted once more, ending the conversation
The next three hours went smoothly, and by half way through the last hour, both men were dressed and ready, both in their respective quarters
"I'm gonna go check to make sure Ginny's ready," Hermione said, "Ron, would you go check to make sure everything's running smoothly?"
"Yeah, sure," Ron said and the two headed towards the door
Before walking out, Hermione turned and said, "We'll leave you alone now. I'll come back up and get you when it's time, so -stay here-" to which Harry simply nodded, already formulating a plan in his head
Sure enough, he only waited two minutes, just to be safe, before heading off to the dungeons to see his soon-to-be husband, after leaving a note for Hermione telling her that she "knew where to find him"
He walked into their rooms without knocking to find Severus pacing at the foot of their bed. Harry stopped right in front of the now closed door, his back to it, and simply smiled at the older mans actions. He still hadn't seen him, so Harry took matters into his own hands and strode over to him, enveloping him in his arms
Severus was stunned by the sudden action and pulled back slightly to see who had hugged him. When he saw Harry's face and eyes so full of love, he smiled and then pulled him back in for another embrace
"I missed you so much," Severus said before kissing Harry
"I missed you, too"
"You know we're gonna have bad luck now, right?" Severus smirked
"Screw it, bad luck follows me no matter what I do anyway"
"Touché, Mr. Potter"
The two men simply stood there holding each other and kissing languidly for the remaining ten minutes before they were retrieved. Harry, of course, was berated for leaving his room and breaking tradition by Hermione as she walked him out onto the Hogwarts grounds and Ginny escorted Severus by a different route
The decorations finally came into view for both the men (on opposite sides of the set up), and both were shocked. Even though Harry had been doing most of the planning and knew everything that was going to be included, even how it was to be arranged, it still didn't lessen the amount of joy and awe he felt and actually seeing the final product. Harry stopped in his tracks, mouth falling open slightly as a few tears gathered in his eyes and he turned towards Hermione, bringing her into a tight embrace and repeating, "thank you thank you thank you thank you" over and over again in her ear
"You're welcome, Harry, it was a pleasure," she said once she was released, "But if you don't hurry, you'll be late for your own wedding"
She laughed at Harry's look of shock before he grabbed her hand as they ran the rest of the way. Once they arrived there, both panting a little from the exertion, Harry saw that Severus was already positioned in his spot to the right of the aisle, behind the crowd, and Ginny had previously moved to take her spot with the rest of the Weasley family on Harry's side
Harry faced Hermione and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before she took her spot next to Ron at the front as his formal witness. Harry then took his own spot to the left of the aisle, behind the crowd
And then, just like that, the tune of Canon in D began to play, signaling that the two should make their way to the front. Everyone stood as the two walked towards each other, turned to face forward as they linked arms (Harry's right with Severus' left) and began to walk towards Albus, who was grinning madly
As the pair was about to pass each row, the occupants fell to one knee and bowed their heads to show their respect for the two, and soon enough they were stationed in front the Headmaster
"You may all sit down," Albus announced to the gathering, and all arose from bended knee, faced forward and inclined their heads slightly before sitting down once more
"Weddings are a joyous occasion for all who witness them," Albus began once everyone was settled, "In the wizarding world, it matters not whether it is a man marrying a man, a woman marrying a woman, or a man marrying a woman; all that matters is that one follows their heart to find the one person that makes them complete," he announced, smiling at his two boys, "And these two claim to have done just that.
There is another, more complicated event that may transpire within the joining of two people, one that cannot be controlled or ultimately planned, and that is the art of bonding," he paused a moment before continuing, "This is a rare thing, and only transpires if the two are destined lovers, meaning that in every life they have been through before this, they were lovers there, as well. The life of a Wizard does not end with death, for it is proven that we stay in an afterlife for all of time, and those who are bonded will stay as such there, as well. It is a great thing, indeed," his blue eyes twinkled at the two in front of him knowingly, "We will know if the bonding has taken place, for we will see a great silver light with gold swirls engulf them, combining their two magic's together, as well as their minds. With that explained, I shall now begin the ritual"
Harry and Severus first had to be given away. Ron stepped forward first and stood in front of the two before speaking, "I, Ronald Weasley, believe that this union is meant to be and that both parties are willing to give all they have to the other. If any harm shall come upon my friend, Harry Potter, in any form from one Severus Snape, I reserve the right to take measures in my own hands if it is the wish of Harry, and swear that I will do nothing illegal in the process of bringing him justice," Ron recited the traditional oath of loyalty, "I hand the task of taking care of Harry over to you, Severus, treat him well," he finished and remained standing
Next Minerva stepped forward, took the spot next to Ron, and began her oath, "I, Minerva McGonagall, believe that this union is meant to be and that both parties are willing to give all they have to the other. If any harm shall come upon my friend, Severus Snape, in any form from one Harry Potter, I reserve the right to take measures in my own hands if it is the wish of Severus, and swear that I will do nothing illegal in the process of bringing him justice. I hand the task of taking care of Severus over to you, Harry, treat him well," she finished and remained standing, waiting for Dumbledore's next instructions
"Acknowledge and prove that what you have said is what you truly feel," Albus said, then Ron and Minerva switched places so that she was now standing in front of Harry, and he was standing in front of Severus. The two glanced at each other, nodded once, then turned and kissed their friends spouse on the forehead, "Thank you, you may step down," Albus said, and the two moved to the opposite side as before, so now Ron stood behind Severus and Minerva behind Harry
"Now, will the grooms please face each other and clasp hands?" Albus asked, though it was more of an order, and the two men obliged, holding the others left in their right and vice versa, "Harry, you will go first; take the wedding band you wish to present to Severus and hold it in your right hand," Harry did so, "Good, now repeat after me: I, Harry James Potter,"
"I, Harry James Potter,"
"Offer this ring to Severus Rowland Snape,"
"Offer this ring to Severus Rowland Snape,"
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"Now place the ring on his left ring finger," Albus smiled as Harry slid the platinum band with sapphire gems placed evenly throughout on said finger while looking into slightly teary eyes
"Severus, you're next. Please take the wedding band you wish to present to Harry and hold it in your right hand," Severus complied, "Now, repeat after me: I, Severus Rowland Snape,"
"I, Severus Rowland Snape,"
"Offer this ring to Harry James Potter,"
"Offer this ring to Harry James Potter,"
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"Now place the ring on his left ring finger," Albus instructed the other man, who slid the identical match of his own on said finger, "Wonderful," Albus smiled brightly before continuing, "Will the two formal witness please step forward?" he said as Harry and Severus faced the front once again
Hermione Granger moved from her spot next to Minerva as Filius Flitwick moved from his spot next to Ron. The two walked forward so they stood next to Dumbledore, their backs to everyone else as two pieces of parchment appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, to hover in front of the two with a quill off to the side
"If it is your wish to see these two finally be wed, sign the document in front of you. By doing so you are assuming the position of witness and could be called upon to testify everything that you witness here today," Hermione and Filius didn't hesitate at all after Dumbledore had spoken, and both signed confidently. As soon as they finished, the papers and quills disappeared just as quickly as they had come
"Thank you, you may step down," the two switched sides as well, just as Minerva and Ron and had done, so that now Severus was backed by Harry's most trusted friends, and vice versa
"All that is left now is to consummate this joining," Albus said merrily
As the two faced each other, holding each others hands once more and looking in each others teary eyes, they felt different. It almost felt as if a ton of weight was added to both and neither could move much. Not knowing what was going on, but not necessarily caring at the moment, the two leaned in for their first, passionate kiss as life mates
What happened was not just a kiss, and they knew it. As soon as their mouths had opened to greet the other in the kiss, it felt as though half of their soul and magic was being removed and placed inside the other as a sudden mighty wind began. And both knew, they knew without even opening their eyes and seeing the beautiful display of silver and gold, that they were now bonded as well as married
When they finally opened their eyes, the lights had gone and the wind had died down, but the looks on everyone's faces was enough evidence to prove to them it had actually happened
'Wow,' Harry thought, and Severus looked him in the eye with a smirk
"Wow, indeed, Mr. Potter"
"You could hear that?" Harry asked after he had finished doing an amazingly good impression of a fish out of water
"Of course, it's a result of the bonding, I'm afraid," Severus out-right smiled
"Oh…well…that won't be so bad," Harry donned a mischievous smirk
And for the fist time in a long while, Severus Snape, sadistic bastard Potions Master, was scared
The two were brought back to reality by clapping and cheering, which made them both blush a nice shade of pink
They were married, bonded and loved. Things will go wrong down the road, but for right now, everything was perfect. Everything was going to be all right.
THE END
Holy crap! What did you guys do to me? This thing is 11 pages and 11 lines long! I -never- do that! I think I now know how JK Rowling can write such terribly long books
The little few lines that I placed in between #'s was a reference to a story I read awhile ago (on adultfanfiction.net, if I'm not mistaken) which is no longer on there, and I can't remember its title, but it was a sing-off between Severus and Draco for the title of Slytherin Sex God…included such songs as 'Werewolves of London', 'Freedom '90', the 'What's new pussy cat' song and many others…if you are the author of this story or have also read it and know the title, please tell me and I'll gladly put the information in here. I loved that story, by the way, I read it many times and would be interested in finding it so I can read it once more…
Ok…with that all said, I'd like to thank all of my faithful reviewers (and readers that didn't review) for keeping me motivated with this story (you can blame the long wait on my Muse, Wynton, who was borrowed by a friend for the time being, so this was done without my wonderful little dragon)
Thanks again, I believe that was the last chapter…watch for other story's written by me ::coughCriminalcough:: it'd be fun to see past reviewers following my work…
This chapter isn't based around a song, and it doesn't have a poem in it either…this is because I honestly couldn't decide on a song I liked best to go with this chapter, so I left it to go one its own
Note: I reposted this chapter with an edit so that Severus and Harry now stand on opposite sides of the aisle...sorry for the confusion, if anyone caught it
Now, after a long wait, I proudly present to you: your final chapter to 'My Worst Fear'
Severus sat in the chair by the fireplace pretending to read a potions book. He wasn't reading because he seemed to find the almost hyperactive movements of his fiancé of five months to be more entertaining. The younger man could be seen bustling about, making "last minute" preparations for the upcoming wedding on Saturday, July 11
As Severus gazed lightly over the top of the book, he saw Dobby disappearing after receiving his orders for the food that was to be served four days from now. After the house elf had gone, Harry began to straighten the sample floral arrangements for the sixth time, but before he could even begin, his gaze fell upon the Potion's Master and the smirk that he was sporting
"And what, pray tell, do you find so amusing?" Harry inquired rather harshly, crossing his arms over his chest as he faced the man fully
"Oh, nothing," Severus said while giving his hand a small, dismissive wave before returning to the task of "reading", but this only angered Harry further, apparently
"Oh no you don't, I know you better than that, Severus Snape," the young man said as he stalked over to the chair and had one hand on each armrest by the end of the statement, effectively blocking him in
This did not faze Severus, however, who simple replied coolly, "Do you now? Well, if you know me so well, then what did I find so amusing?"
Harry opened his mouth to answer, but, upon discovering that he didn't know what to say, he closed it once more before responding, "I don't know," he admitted while glaring. The glare turned into a look of pure exhaustion, anticipation and anxiety, and Severus couldn't help but take pity on the other man
"I was merely taking pleasure in watching you run your cute little ass around these dungeon rooms like an over-eager house wife, is all," Severus smirked. He may have pitied Harry enough to enlighten him, but that wasn't going to stop him from stressing the amusement of the situation…he -did- have a reputation to uphold, after all
Harry 'humphed' angrily and then said, "Well if you would help out in planning, I wouldn't have to be running around so much and worrying all the time that -our- day won't be as perfect as it should be"
"You're the one who wanted a big fiasco, Harry," Severus pointed out for the fourth time, "I would've been perfectly happy getting married with only Albus as the minister…and possibly two or so witnesses"
Harry was too exhausted to continue to stand so imposingly in front of Severus any longer, especially when he knew it did absolutely no good anyway, so he walked over to the couch directly across from the other man and sat down heavily
"But, I couldn't leave the Weasley's out…they've been my only real family. And Hermione, she's been with me almost as long as Ron has," Harry explained rather pleadingly, partially because he knew it'd get Severus to back down, and also because he just felt like whining a little bit, to be honest
Well, it worked its magic, because Severus softened immediately, mostly because of the names that were left out
Harry had said nothing about the Dursley's coming, simply because they had refused to "attend a gathering of freaks to honor freaky gayness" (always the eloquent ones with words) and had said they hoped they'd never see him again since he didn't need them anymore, which had been just fine with Harry, who had just invited them as a formality, knowing they'd never come. And Severus was still convinced they would've said all that in a howler had they a) trusted magic and b) knew how to work one
The main reason Severus didn't want to make a big spectacle out of the wedding was not, contrary to popular belief, that he was not a very social or open person (though that did play a part). No, the reason was that he had no one he really cared to be there
His parents were no longer alive, and therefore could not attend, and the only other person he really wanted (or maybe even needed) to see this, besides Harry, of course, was Albus; and the man was running the sermon, for crying out loud! Yes, he'd be fine simply with Harry, Albus and himself there
But coming back to the conversation at hand, Severus said: "I know, Harry, and I understand all that, but I already told you I'm no good at decorations and formal planning that isn't in the form of a class schedule"
Harry arose from his spot on the couch and sauntered back over to Severus' chair and placed himself on the man's lap, so he was straddling his legs and looking him in the eye
Pouting a little, his lower lip sticking out ever so slightly, Harry said: "But it almost seems as though you don't want to even have the wedding, much less participate in it"
Severus rolled his eyes and growled irritably, "Don't want to participate? Harry, I was the one to bloody ask you to marry me! I practically sent you a formal invitation to attend -my- wedding"
"-You- invited -me- to -your- wedding?" Harry asked indignantly, "I think bloody not! By asking me you invited yourself into -my- wedding"
Severus smirked, knowing he'd accomplished his task, "Fine, I invited myself into -your- wedding," Harry gave a triumphant smile at this before Severus continued, "So it's -your- job to plan it how -you- want it," Severus out right smiled at the end as Harry's own smile disappeared
Harry simply sat there, stunned. How had the other man turned the tables on him so easily? "That was a dirty trick," he said, narrowing his eyes
"Almost Slytherin like, would you say?" Severus asked, attempting to keep a straight face and all humor out of his voice, but failing somewhat, causing the comment to anger Harry even more
"Yes, Almighty Head of Slytherin House, -very- Slytherin like. I knew I shoulda went for a Gryffindor," Harry crossed his arms over his chest as his lower lip protruded once more as he pouted for the second time that night
#"Oh please, and give up the Slytherin Sex God?" Severus scoffed, "I think not"
" 'Oh please' yourself! Just because you could sing more songs about your multiple relations then Malfoy could doesn't mean there's not a more talented Slytherin in bed"
"If I recall correctly, you weren't so opposed to it while you were writhing as you pleasured yourself under a conjured shower on the quidditch pitch, in front of the whole school, while I was singing 'Freedom '90' to symbolize our…relations…" Severus countered while raising an eyebrow#
Harry blushed and shifted a little on Severus' lap at the memory of that night, "It's not my fault I was in love with you and your sexy voice and wasn't able to control my emotions"
"Admit it, you didn't want to see Draco win"
"Of course not! If I can lay claim to the Slytherin Sex God, I'll take it," Harry smirked confidently
"Awww, how touching," Severus said, placing a hand over his heart, mocking the words he'd just spoken
Harry just shook his head, as if taunting the older man, as he glared and stuck his tongue out, too exhausted to do anything else beyond that simple act. Severus saw the fatigue, too, and said, "Harry, I would ask you to hand the reigns over to Hermione and Ginny completely and have them finish the plans if I knew there was even the slightest chance you'd comply. However, since I'm more intelligent than that, I'll simply ask that you have them assist you for the next four days"
Harry gave the older man a skeptical look before Severus continued, "Please, Harry? You can't keep this up for that long"
The sincerity of the concern in Severus' eyes caught Harry's heart instantly, and he was agreeing before he even knew what he was saying, "Of course, Sev, I'll ask them tomorrow"
"Thank you," Severus said, kissing the younger man softly, "Now, shall we go to bed?"
"What time is it?" Harry asked, bewildered by the question. He knew he tended to lose track of time while planning, but he didn't think it'd been that long
"10:30 already, and we've got that meeting with Albus in the morning"
"Oh bugger! I completely forgot about that"
"So to bed it is, then," Severus laughed before picking Harry up as he stood and carried the light boy to the bedroom, where both men changed quickly and promptly fell asleep in each others arms
Neither awoke until seven the next morning so they could get ready to be up in the Headmaster's office by eight. As soon as both men were showered and dressed, they made their way up to Dumbledore's office hand in hand
Severus said the password (red liquorish) as they reached the stone gargoyle that blocked the entrance to the office, and Harry knocked when they reached the door to said office. The pair entered only when they heard the Headmaster call to them to do so
Upon entering, Severus sat himself in the chair positioned furthest from the doorway while Harry took the closest
"Tea? Lemon drop?" Dumbledore offered them, though both refused; much too early for sweets, and neither was particularly fond of the old man's tea
"Now, I merely called you up here today to check on preparation progress. So, with that, how -is- the planning coming along?"
"Very well, actually, I think we finally decided on the floral and seating arrangements, as well as the color for our robes, along with the color of yours," Harry replied, ignoring Severus' snort at 'we finally decided'
"Excellent, very excellent," Dumbledore's blue eyes sparkled behind his half moon spectacles as he smiled, "And what color robes are to be assigned?"
"Severus and I will wear matching navy blue dress robes with silver trim, since he refuses to wear anything bright, and I refuse to wear black dress robes on my wedding day," Harry sent a sideways glare towards his lover before continuing, "And you, Albus, will be wearing green dress robes…though a darker shade so as not to contrast too badly with us"
"Sounds wonderful, boys," Dumbledore replied enthusiastically, "that was basically all I needed; unless you two have any questions, comments or great thoughts?"
"Yes, I have one for you, Albus," Severus stated in his stern, teacher voice
"Oh? And what is that, my boy?" Dumbledore asked enthusiastically
"Why in bloody hell did you have to wake me up so damn early, not only during my summer break, but also three days prior to my wedding?!" Severus seethed as both the Headmaster and Harry jumped a good foot in the air from the outburst
Before Dumbledore could answer, however, Harry stood up, grabbed Severus' arm, hauled him out of the chair and then pushed him in the direction of the door while Severus was still glaring daggers at the old man
"Sorry about him, we revisited a touchy memory for us both last night, and I'm afraid he's a tad edgy because of it," Harry explained and Dumbledore smiled once more, "Thank you for your time, Albus," he finished and then they left the office
"What was -that- about?" Harry demanded once they were in the hallway
"What?" Severus feigned innocence, slowly coming out of teacher mode
"If you're not careful, that man's gonna walk out and refuse to perform the ceremony; -then- where would we be?"
Severus laughed, then said, "Walk out on us? -Us-, Harry? He wouldn't ever do that"
"Oh yeah? And what makes you so sure?" Harry asked skeptically
"In case you haven't noticed, dear, we're like his surrogate sons that he never had, whether we want to be or not"
"Well true…but that doesn't mean…" Harry continued his skeptical streak. That is…until Severus cut him off
"Oh yes, Harry, yes it does; it absolutely means that he won't leave us on the happiest day of our lives…and probably one of the happiest for him, as well," Severus said, smugly
"Uck! You're insufferable! You know that, don't you?" Harry said disgustedly as he walked off, leaving Severus standing there, shocked
Severus ran after the younger man, and, when he finally caught up to him, asked, "What'd I say?"
"You think you can just mistreat him like that? I don't understand how you're able to. I know how much he means to you…everything that he means to you…and yet you can still feel no shame in treating him that way?"
"Harry, I was just stating the truth…that's all"
"I know…but think about it, Sev: if you're willing to treat even -Albus- that way, a man who has basically been your father and you both care about each other, what's to stop you from doing that to me?"
Severus felt lost because he had already forgotten what he'd said about the older man, "I…I don't understand, Harry. What's to stop me from doing what?"
"From walking all over me because you know that I care about you too much to let it ruin anything!"
Severus just stood there, too stunned to do anything else, "I would never do that…I promise I'll never do that," he finally said in a desperate voice
"I don't know if I can trust that," Harry stated, equally desperate
"What -can- you trust? What can I do to make you see that I'd never do that?"
Harry thought for a moment as he gazed into Severus' eyes, "Prove to me that you can control the urge to put others down. Prove to me you can be a human being most of the time. Prove to me that your actions are controlled and that I have no reason to fear them," Harry walked closer to Severus, sadness in his eyes, and wrapped his arms around the other man's waist as he buried his face in his neck, before whispering: "Prove to me that you love me too much to ever do it"
Severus lifted Harry's head from his neck by placing two fingers below the others chin and raising it. He looked into the green eyes that he loved so incredibly much…the ones that were so desperate to feel secure; but not secure just anywhere, no, desperate to feel secure in Severus' arms
The older man leaned down slowly, keeping his eyes open and always on the others eyes as he did so, and kissed the other so softly that it was barely felt, putting every feeling of love into it, then pulled away
"I will do all that you asked and more, if that's what it takes for you to trust me again," Severus vowed
Harry smiled, a rather small smile, before arching up and claiming Severus' lips with and as his own in a bruising kiss, "Sounds like a plan," he said once he pulled away
The two proceeded down to their quarters in the dungeons to continue their day. They sat for a little while in front of the fireplace (though it was charmed to not let off any heat, seeing as how it was the beginning of July), content to simply hold each other in their arms, as they were equally lost in their own thoughts
After a nice, quiet lunch, Harry contacted Hermione and Ginny to ask for their help with the planning, to which both readily agreed. With their help, the remaining arrangements were quickly made, and Harry was more rested and happy for it
In no time at all (as it seemed to the pair) it was Saturday morning. For the first time in…at least two years, they didn't wake up in each others arms…or even the same bed…or even the same -room-, because, according to tradition, they were not to see each other at all until the wedding. So in effect, Harry had slept in Gryffindor tower with Ron and Hermione, while Severus remained in the dungeons
Severus awoke the next morning and made to pull his lover in closer, but when all he came across was a pillow (which he had unknowingly placed in his arms the night before to take Harry's place), he growled. After a few seconds of deep consideration, Severus made up his mind and threw the pillow as hard as he could to hit the wall across the room. With doing so, he smiled contently before burying his face in his own pillow once more before growing tired of lying in the bed, hoping Harry would come back in so he could hold him. So as he grumpily rolled out of bed, he was, non-too quietly, cursing the "stupid tradition that was keeping him from seeing his lover…dammit all!"
As for Harry…? Well…he didn't wake up any better then Severus had, except that he had witnesses
"Fuck! I -hate- this!" he yelled when he woke up and remembered he couldn't snuggle into his lovers embrace, effectively waking Ron and Hermione
At the outburst, Ron sat upright in his bed suddenly, looking around frantically, and asked, "What? Wha' happened?'
"I didn't wake up in Severus' arms, that's what happened," Harry said angrily
"Awwww, that's so sweet, Harry," Hermione cooed
"I don't wanna be sweet, I just want my Severus back!" Harry whined and then pouted, folding his arms over his chest
"It's only for," Ron looked at his watch to see that it was 10:09, and then continued, "four hours"
"Why did I let you guys talk me into this?"
"What? Getting married?" Ron asked, genuinely confused
"No, Ron, for "making" him agree to follow tradition," Hermione said, exasperated
"It's not necessary," Harry pointed out for the millionth time
To which Hermione insisted, "But it's tradition," for the counter millionth time
"It's dumb," he pouted once more, ending the conversation
The next three hours went smoothly, and by half way through the last hour, both men were dressed and ready, both in their respective quarters
"I'm gonna go check to make sure Ginny's ready," Hermione said, "Ron, would you go check to make sure everything's running smoothly?"
"Yeah, sure," Ron said and the two headed towards the door
Before walking out, Hermione turned and said, "We'll leave you alone now. I'll come back up and get you when it's time, so -stay here-" to which Harry simply nodded, already formulating a plan in his head
Sure enough, he only waited two minutes, just to be safe, before heading off to the dungeons to see his soon-to-be husband, after leaving a note for Hermione telling her that she "knew where to find him"
He walked into their rooms without knocking to find Severus pacing at the foot of their bed. Harry stopped right in front of the now closed door, his back to it, and simply smiled at the older mans actions. He still hadn't seen him, so Harry took matters into his own hands and strode over to him, enveloping him in his arms
Severus was stunned by the sudden action and pulled back slightly to see who had hugged him. When he saw Harry's face and eyes so full of love, he smiled and then pulled him back in for another embrace
"I missed you so much," Severus said before kissing Harry
"I missed you, too"
"You know we're gonna have bad luck now, right?" Severus smirked
"Screw it, bad luck follows me no matter what I do anyway"
"Touché, Mr. Potter"
The two men simply stood there holding each other and kissing languidly for the remaining ten minutes before they were retrieved. Harry, of course, was berated for leaving his room and breaking tradition by Hermione as she walked him out onto the Hogwarts grounds and Ginny escorted Severus by a different route
The decorations finally came into view for both the men (on opposite sides of the set up), and both were shocked. Even though Harry had been doing most of the planning and knew everything that was going to be included, even how it was to be arranged, it still didn't lessen the amount of joy and awe he felt and actually seeing the final product. Harry stopped in his tracks, mouth falling open slightly as a few tears gathered in his eyes and he turned towards Hermione, bringing her into a tight embrace and repeating, "thank you thank you thank you thank you" over and over again in her ear
"You're welcome, Harry, it was a pleasure," she said once she was released, "But if you don't hurry, you'll be late for your own wedding"
She laughed at Harry's look of shock before he grabbed her hand as they ran the rest of the way. Once they arrived there, both panting a little from the exertion, Harry saw that Severus was already positioned in his spot to the right of the aisle, behind the crowd, and Ginny had previously moved to take her spot with the rest of the Weasley family on Harry's side
Harry faced Hermione and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before she took her spot next to Ron at the front as his formal witness. Harry then took his own spot to the left of the aisle, behind the crowd
And then, just like that, the tune of Canon in D began to play, signaling that the two should make their way to the front. Everyone stood as the two walked towards each other, turned to face forward as they linked arms (Harry's right with Severus' left) and began to walk towards Albus, who was grinning madly
As the pair was about to pass each row, the occupants fell to one knee and bowed their heads to show their respect for the two, and soon enough they were stationed in front the Headmaster
"You may all sit down," Albus announced to the gathering, and all arose from bended knee, faced forward and inclined their heads slightly before sitting down once more
"Weddings are a joyous occasion for all who witness them," Albus began once everyone was settled, "In the wizarding world, it matters not whether it is a man marrying a man, a woman marrying a woman, or a man marrying a woman; all that matters is that one follows their heart to find the one person that makes them complete," he announced, smiling at his two boys, "And these two claim to have done just that.
There is another, more complicated event that may transpire within the joining of two people, one that cannot be controlled or ultimately planned, and that is the art of bonding," he paused a moment before continuing, "This is a rare thing, and only transpires if the two are destined lovers, meaning that in every life they have been through before this, they were lovers there, as well. The life of a Wizard does not end with death, for it is proven that we stay in an afterlife for all of time, and those who are bonded will stay as such there, as well. It is a great thing, indeed," his blue eyes twinkled at the two in front of him knowingly, "We will know if the bonding has taken place, for we will see a great silver light with gold swirls engulf them, combining their two magic's together, as well as their minds. With that explained, I shall now begin the ritual"
Harry and Severus first had to be given away. Ron stepped forward first and stood in front of the two before speaking, "I, Ronald Weasley, believe that this union is meant to be and that both parties are willing to give all they have to the other. If any harm shall come upon my friend, Harry Potter, in any form from one Severus Snape, I reserve the right to take measures in my own hands if it is the wish of Harry, and swear that I will do nothing illegal in the process of bringing him justice," Ron recited the traditional oath of loyalty, "I hand the task of taking care of Harry over to you, Severus, treat him well," he finished and remained standing
Next Minerva stepped forward, took the spot next to Ron, and began her oath, "I, Minerva McGonagall, believe that this union is meant to be and that both parties are willing to give all they have to the other. If any harm shall come upon my friend, Severus Snape, in any form from one Harry Potter, I reserve the right to take measures in my own hands if it is the wish of Severus, and swear that I will do nothing illegal in the process of bringing him justice. I hand the task of taking care of Severus over to you, Harry, treat him well," she finished and remained standing, waiting for Dumbledore's next instructions
"Acknowledge and prove that what you have said is what you truly feel," Albus said, then Ron and Minerva switched places so that she was now standing in front of Harry, and he was standing in front of Severus. The two glanced at each other, nodded once, then turned and kissed their friends spouse on the forehead, "Thank you, you may step down," Albus said, and the two moved to the opposite side as before, so now Ron stood behind Severus and Minerva behind Harry
"Now, will the grooms please face each other and clasp hands?" Albus asked, though it was more of an order, and the two men obliged, holding the others left in their right and vice versa, "Harry, you will go first; take the wedding band you wish to present to Severus and hold it in your right hand," Harry did so, "Good, now repeat after me: I, Harry James Potter,"
"I, Harry James Potter,"
"Offer this ring to Severus Rowland Snape,"
"Offer this ring to Severus Rowland Snape,"
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"Now place the ring on his left ring finger," Albus smiled as Harry slid the platinum band with sapphire gems placed evenly throughout on said finger while looking into slightly teary eyes
"Severus, you're next. Please take the wedding band you wish to present to Harry and hold it in your right hand," Severus complied, "Now, repeat after me: I, Severus Rowland Snape,"
"I, Severus Rowland Snape,"
"Offer this ring to Harry James Potter,"
"Offer this ring to Harry James Potter,"
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"As a token of my everlasting and undying love."
"Now place the ring on his left ring finger," Albus instructed the other man, who slid the identical match of his own on said finger, "Wonderful," Albus smiled brightly before continuing, "Will the two formal witness please step forward?" he said as Harry and Severus faced the front once again
Hermione Granger moved from her spot next to Minerva as Filius Flitwick moved from his spot next to Ron. The two walked forward so they stood next to Dumbledore, their backs to everyone else as two pieces of parchment appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, to hover in front of the two with a quill off to the side
"If it is your wish to see these two finally be wed, sign the document in front of you. By doing so you are assuming the position of witness and could be called upon to testify everything that you witness here today," Hermione and Filius didn't hesitate at all after Dumbledore had spoken, and both signed confidently. As soon as they finished, the papers and quills disappeared just as quickly as they had come
"Thank you, you may step down," the two switched sides as well, just as Minerva and Ron and had done, so that now Severus was backed by Harry's most trusted friends, and vice versa
"All that is left now is to consummate this joining," Albus said merrily
As the two faced each other, holding each others hands once more and looking in each others teary eyes, they felt different. It almost felt as if a ton of weight was added to both and neither could move much. Not knowing what was going on, but not necessarily caring at the moment, the two leaned in for their first, passionate kiss as life mates
What happened was not just a kiss, and they knew it. As soon as their mouths had opened to greet the other in the kiss, it felt as though half of their soul and magic was being removed and placed inside the other as a sudden mighty wind began. And both knew, they knew without even opening their eyes and seeing the beautiful display of silver and gold, that they were now bonded as well as married
When they finally opened their eyes, the lights had gone and the wind had died down, but the looks on everyone's faces was enough evidence to prove to them it had actually happened
'Wow,' Harry thought, and Severus looked him in the eye with a smirk
"Wow, indeed, Mr. Potter"
"You could hear that?" Harry asked after he had finished doing an amazingly good impression of a fish out of water
"Of course, it's a result of the bonding, I'm afraid," Severus out-right smiled
"Oh…well…that won't be so bad," Harry donned a mischievous smirk
And for the fist time in a long while, Severus Snape, sadistic bastard Potions Master, was scared
The two were brought back to reality by clapping and cheering, which made them both blush a nice shade of pink
They were married, bonded and loved. Things will go wrong down the road, but for right now, everything was perfect. Everything was going to be all right.
THE END
Holy crap! What did you guys do to me? This thing is 11 pages and 11 lines long! I -never- do that! I think I now know how JK Rowling can write such terribly long books
The little few lines that I placed in between #'s was a reference to a story I read awhile ago (on adultfanfiction.net, if I'm not mistaken) which is no longer on there, and I can't remember its title, but it was a sing-off between Severus and Draco for the title of Slytherin Sex God…included such songs as 'Werewolves of London', 'Freedom '90', the 'What's new pussy cat' song and many others…if you are the author of this story or have also read it and know the title, please tell me and I'll gladly put the information in here. I loved that story, by the way, I read it many times and would be interested in finding it so I can read it once more…
Ok…with that all said, I'd like to thank all of my faithful reviewers (and readers that didn't review) for keeping me motivated with this story (you can blame the long wait on my Muse, Wynton, who was borrowed by a friend for the time being, so this was done without my wonderful little dragon)
Thanks again, I believe that was the last chapter…watch for other story's written by me ::coughCriminalcough:: it'd be fun to see past reviewers following my work…