Warning: Language, absurdity, and lack of plot.
A/N: If I owned Harry Potter in all his glory, would I have to sell myself on the street corners of KC? I think not.
Summary: Ummmm...yeah. Chaos ensues.
Thanks: Will be given at the end of the story...(a neat trick I've seen others use)
Whew! Jesus please us - THAT TOOK FOREVER! I'll be surprised if you all remember this story- I'm SOOOO sorry it took me so DAMN long to update!! With Crimbos and New Years and working and EVERYTHING...frankly, I'm amazed I'm still alive. This chapter is a bit longer than the rest. I hope that helps to make up for its' absence. Please don't hate me too much.
Right.
To infinity, and BEYOND!
~*~
Impatient footsteps echoed off the walls and ceiling of the Infirmary - the sharp clacking intensified by the sterilized air. Pacing about, it would seem, had become a daily, and nightly, routine for Severus. His quick steps did little to help the already tense atmosphere, as Madam Pomfrey had given him a once-over more than once.
"Are you quite finished?" Her tone was one not to be trifled with.
Not that he cared.
"That all depends...are you?"
Madam Pomfrey rolled her eyes and resumed the through inspection of the unconscious boy that lay before her.
It was a familiar scene. He had been in the hospital wing more times than he could count in his lifetime. It felt like only yesterday he had been there himself as a student...a second degree burn here, a broken jaw there...he had his fair share of 'accidents' in his youth. Whether it was a potion gone horribly wrong, or another run-in with those...those Gryffindors...Severus Snape was in and out of the Hospital Wing at least once a week. Pain made you stronger, his father had always told him.
He wasn't the most respected, and feared, potions master in all of England for nothing.
Nor was it fear that caused Severus to pace about the Infirmary, although it did appear to be that way. He had given that boy quite a wallop, heaving him against a stone wall with all the strength of a grown man. But he knew Draco was fine. A bit bruised up, but fine. A previous and 'unknown' inspection had put the majority of his fears to rest...
No, it wasn't fear that kept Snape in constant motion - it was rage.
~*~
...Flashback...
~*~
A figure cloaked in black hurried down the dungeon corridor, unconscious student in arm, muttering furiously and silently to himself.
After everything that he had done...had sacrificed...he would be damned if it all fell apart like this. If he lost the boy to something as stupid as 'self-defense'. No. That would not...COULD not happen. Not now.
He had just passed a seemingly innocent wall when he slowed...and stopped. He looked to the stones briefly, then to Draco, then back at the wall. Without another thought, Severus muttered a few incantations, and the wall disappeared - exposing a doorway to a hidden room. Glancing over his shoulder, Severus quickly walked in, and the wall reappeared.
Once within the safety of his storeroom, Snape allowed himself a moment to focus. Draco needed to be under Madam Pomfrey's care, yes, but it was necessary to look him over first. It was imperative. Severus had his suspicions, and if they were correct, he would need to confirm them BEFORE Madam Pomfrey had a go at it. Too much was at risk...
Carefully, Severus laid the unconscious Slytherin down on the center table. He checked his pulse - it was steady. Wand out and ready, Snape muttered the spell.
"Expromo Cantamen"
A green flash lit the room...covering Draco in its light...and then disappeared.
Severus growled. Apparently, no magic was used to force Draco into performing those hideous acts. He thought a moment before starting another spell.
"Expromo Alienigena"
A blue light flashed into existence, hovered for a moment, and then flew to Draco's feet - covering him in its neon blue essence. Slowly, it began to scan his body, moving upwards from his feet. As it progressed, its blue light pierced through Draco - exposing his muscles, bones, blood...everything. Severus watched...and waited. His attention was finally caught when the blue light stopped, and flashed, directly over Draco's head.
'Surprise, surprise...' Severus' sense of humor could've rivaled Ron Wealsey's for popping up in THE most inappropriate times...had he been more apt to saying it rather than thinking it.
The blue light had exposed, deep within Draco's mind, three golden orbs. Pleased that his spell had done its job at exposing the foreign entities, Severus waved his hand, and the light disappeared.
"Commemoro"
Instantly, the three orbs levitated out of Draco's head and hovered - directly across from Severus. With another wave of his hand, the orbs unfolded into words. He couldn't help but chuckle.
"...of course..." Apparently, Potter and his friends thought that non-magical tactics would save their sorry behinds from punishment. He would be only too happy to prove them wrong. "Making good use of your knew bauble, I see..."
Amused, Severus read the **suggestions** out loud.
"When Hermione Granger says the word **Question**, you will, without hesitation, announce your deepest and darkest secrets. You will have no memory of this afterwards."
His head shook in disgust.
"When Ron Weasley says the word **Sir**, you will, without hesitation, believe that you're desperately in love with him...No one else exists in your world...Only after you realize this, will you see that his life is in danger, and YOU, Draco Malfoy, are the only person who can save him...A hoard of Flesh Eating Slugs will attack Professor Snape, and the only way to kill them is to hit them as hard as you can..."
His eyes widened as he read Ron's suggestion...before instinctively narrowing again. Oh, they would pay for this outrage.
"When Harry Potter says the phrase **You know you want me**, you will, without hesitation, answer truthfully..."
Snape cocked his head in thought and disbelief. Could a certain young Gryffindor be curious about his arch nemesis? Could there be more at play than a simple boyhood grudge? A curious smirk made its way to Severus' lips. This was working out much differently than he had planned.
With a wave of his hand, the three golden orbs disappeared out of existence...along with their influence.
~*~
...End Flashback...
~*~
To say that Severus was angry would be a grievous understatement. Kind of like saying the Titanic had a bit of a hole in its side.
Yes, he was angry. Well, more like infuriated - but not so much with Harry, Ron or Hermione - he was, in fact, more angry with himself than the three combined. And considering their history together, that IS saying something.
The little prank they pulled in his potions class was most certainly detention worthy, if not expulsion...but the actual 'act' of punishment would be trickier. How could he prove it? And even if he could, SHOULD he? After all, in a round about way, it was his fault the prank occurred in the first place.
Questions would rise...
How did they manage to hypnotize Draco? What did they use? How did they get it? Professor Snape, do you know anything about this?
Too many questions...
"Professor?"
Severus had stopped pacing...his fists were balled up...knuckles white...teeth clenched...
"Severus?"
Up went the mask.
"Poppy?"
A soft smile reached Madam Pompfrey's lips.
"Mister Malfoy, he seems to be in fine shape. Mind you, he'll have quite a bump on his head for a few days, but it's nothing rest and a good amount of ice won't fix." She motioned to Draco, who was still unconscious. "You may see him now."
"Thank you." He quickly made his was over to the bed.
"Although..." She called over her shoulder. "I would advise you not to handle your students quite so roughly in the future."
He smirked.
"You would do well to tell THEM the same thing."
~*~
It was at least two hours before Draco finally awoke. The world was a big white blur. Groggily, Draco covered his eyes.
"Arrrrgh...too bright..."
Then, the pain hit.
"OWWwww."
He gingerly put his hand to the back of his head, lightly tapping a feel for the massive bump that had formed.
"Careful. You'll do yourself another injury."
Draco squeaked his eyes open - a dark, blurry, brooding mass sat before him.
"Snape?"
"Ahhh...I'll thank you for not calling me Severus."
The world was still spinning a bit. Perhaps he heard wrong. "I called you Severus?"
"Actually, you called me Severus MY LOVE, right before you jumped onto my back...but I will spare you the sordid details."
Draco's eyes were fully open by this point.
"I called you...I jumped...what?"
Snape put his hands up in defense. "You were not...yourself today in class."
After an agonizing eternity, Severus explained the morning's...events...to the both of their embarrassment. Draco had turned red, and then green, finally settling on white before Snape was done. His worst fears confirmed.
"I...this can't be happening." His eyes were wide - focusing on anything and everything BUT Snape.
"I regret to inform you that yes, it is." Snape hardly looked amused. "And it will be dealt with accordingly."
At that, Draco managed to look him in the eye.
"Potter..."
A small flicker of...something...was visible behind Severus' gaze, though Draco couldn't tell what it was exactly.
"We...don't know that it was indeed Mr. Potter or not..." Professor Snape was not a man known to stammer - but this was the closest he'd ever come to it.
"WHAT?" Draco's look was incredulous. "Of COURSE it was Potter! Who else would it be?"
A considerable amount of bile had started to collect in the back of his throat, yet Severus remained composed. "Madam Pomfrey scanned you for traces of magic...there were none..."
"So he used another way! Muggle methods! I don't know...Hypnosis! Something!"
"I HIGHLY doubt Mr. Potter is capable of hypnosis," Severus sneered. "That would require brain power."
"So that Mudblood Granger did it!" Draco was fuming, his nostrils flared. "ONE of them did THIS."
"I need not remind you of your current situation, Mr. Malfoy..." Severus raised an eyebrow - an unspoken warning. "...to bring such attention to yourself AND Mr. Potter would be unwise."
Snape's word of caution sank deep into Draco's stomach. After wincing a moment, he nodded reluctantly. Professor Snape was right. He was always right. But how long would this be held over his head? He hadn't asked to be rescued, not that he wasn't grateful...but still. As much as he admired his professor, Draco couldn't help but feel a twinge of resentment towards him.
"Yes, Sir."
Severus nodded, and the subject was carefully dropped.
"Madam Pomfrey has informed me that you are to miss the rest of your classes today, as you are in dire need of rest." Even though he secretly agreed with her, Severus made a point of relaying her message after thoroughly dousing it in sarcasm. It did not go unnoticed, as Draco snorted in reply.
"Yes, well...I don't see how rest will help the sizeable protuberance on the back of my head, as it hurts like hell to lay down." His smirk doing little to hide the truth in his statement.
"Yes. About that..." Severus shifted in his seat. "Draco...I"
"...had no choice. I know." The blonde Slytherin lowered his gaze. "It seems I left you little alternative."
"Regardless, it does not excuse what I did..."
"Don't." Grey eyes met black, and Severus shut his mouth. "Don't."
In that moment, Severus understood. He understood why the Dark Lord wanted the boy. Despite his childish actions, his very presence commanded respect. Those silver eyes told a tale of pain and power, pain that was inevitable in the quest for such power. And to have learned such lessons so early...Severus closed his eyes and thought of the agony that awaited the unsuspecting boy. No amount of childhood suffering could prepared him for what was to come...IF...if it were to come to pass. It was a big if. Severus opened his eyes again, and carefully looked upon the potential embodiment of evil that lay before him.
A tangible moment of awkwardness rang clear throughout the Infirmary. Apparently, he had been staring a second or two too long...as Draco was now staring at him curiously.
Severus sighed.
"If it makes you feel any better..." A small flickering of a smirk traced the edges of his lips. "...I imagined you were Potter when I slammed you against the wall."
For the first time that week, Draco genuinely laughed. The grey melted into silver and danced, reflecting the sunlight that poured into the Infirmary...catching Severus off guard for a moment. A twinge of hope fluttered in his chest as he recognized the reflection - innocence. Perhaps there was a chance after all.
And for the first time...EVER...Severus genuinely smiled.
"I will leave you to your recovery, then."
Severus had just gotten up to leave when Draco called him back.
"**Professor?**"
"**GIGGLE** Yes?"
Draco stared at him with a look of disbelief and horror mixed with amusement. His mouth had gone dry.
"Yes, Mister Malfoy?"
Draco shook his head, regaining his composure. Surely he had not heard him correctly.
"Er, yes. I was wondering if I am still to join you after dinner tonight?"
"Hmmmm." Severus grazed the underside of his chin. "I don't see why not. Yes. That is..." His tone grew sarcastic again. "...if you feel up to it."
Draco grinned. "Oh, I don't know. I could faint at any time."
"Seven o'clock. Don't be late."
"I won't be, **Professor**"
"I should **GIGGLE** think not." And with that, Severus made his way out.
Draco sat for what seemed like an eternity, pondering the horror that was Severus Snape giggling like a schoolgirl. He wondered briefly if he should've mentioned it.
~*~
The rest of the morning passed uneventfully for the three Gryffindors. Although, Charms with Professor Flitwick had turned out to be an enjoyable class - almost as enjoyable as Potions had been, but without a notably insane Draco Malfoy prancing about. Nonetheless, Charms had proven to be entertaining.
Poor Professor Flitwick.
It had been quite a chore getting the Gryffindor section of the class to quiet down before the lesson had even started - but it would prove to be a futile effort as the time wore on.
"Now class, today we will be...Mr. Longbottom, would you kindly stop giggling. Thank you. As I was saying...Mr. Thomas, Mr. Finnigan, do I need to remind you of how rude it is to snicker when others are talking? No. I thought not. Where was I? Oh yes! Today's lesson involves...Miss Brown! Miss Patel! Girls! Girls! I don't want to tell you again. Please stop this at once. What has gotten into you all?"
Hermione shot everyone a look. They did their best to keep quiet.
"Thank you Miss Granger. Now then...today we will be practicing the spell 'decresco perquam'." Professor Flitwick looked around at the class. "Can anyone tell me what it means?"
Only one hand went up. And it belonged to a Miss Hermione Granger, who was very red in the face.
"Yes, Miss Granger!"
"I, ummm, I know what it means, Sir."
"Very well, would you care to share it with the rest of the class?"
"To be perfectly honest, Sir...I don't think that's a good idea." Hermione had turned a few shades darker.
"What is it?" Ron hissed to no one in particular.
"I think I know..." Harry smiled, trying to suppress his laughter.
"Miss Granger, I wouldn't have asked the question if I didn't want an answer!" Flitwick cheerfully replied. "Now go on, tell us all what it means."
Hermione took in a deep breath.
"It's an extremely powerful shrinking spell."
Snickering erupted from all corners of the class, much to the Ravenclaws' and Professor Flitwick's confusion.
"Thank you Miss Granger. You are correct. Five points to Gryffindor."
Ron elbowed her in the ribs. "It's a shame Malfoy's missing this."
"Malfoy isn't in Ravenclaw, you half-wit." Hermione rolled her eyes.
Ron rolled his eyes in return. "Still..."
"Mr. Weasley?"
Ron shot to attention.
"Yes, Professor?"
"I was asking if you would like to volunteer and ideas as to what we should be shrinking today?"
Even Hermione couldn't hold back a chuckle at the set up.
"Umm...*snicker*...maybe a...*chuckle*..." Hermione elbowed him. "How about a picture of you, Professor?"
"A picture? Of me?" Professor Flitwick looked around the class, his cheeks slightly pink. "Oh, I don't know. I doubt that would make a very interesting lesson..."
But before he could finish, every single student in Gryffindor shouted out.
"Yes!" "You should do it!" "That'd be brilliant!" "Do you have any pictures?" "Can I have one?" "Oh, PLEASE!" "It would be GREAT!"
Shocked by the sudden enthusiasm, but slightly touched at the same time, Professor Flitwick turned a bright shade of red.
"Well, if you think..."
There was a resounding YES.
"Okay then!" He cheerfully bounded behind his desk. "I have a stockpile here for just such an occasion."
As Flitwick ruffled through some papers, Hermione lightly punched Ron on the shoulder.
"What the hell is wrong with you!?"
"WHAT?" Ron snickered. "Come off it. He doesn't know." He pointed to the clueless professor. "Look! He said he had a stockpile ready. C'mon! It's fate, that is. Don't you think, Harry?"
But Harry just shook his head. He was too busy crying from laughing so hard.
"Besides..." Ron wiggled his eyebrows. "Maybe he'll sign 'em after class."
Hermione looked indignant. "Really!" Then paused a moment.
"Do you think he would?"
~*~
Lunch had already begun by the time Severus graced the Great Hall with his brooding presence. In one swift movement, he drew back his chair, sat down, and pulled himself forward - graceful, composed, with an edge of 'don't fuck with me right now.' To the majority of Hogwarts, this was his usual stance. However, to those who knew him well, IE - Dumbledore, he was stressed. Abnormally stressed. Which was a disturbing thought.
Even more disturbing was the fact that Albus had no idea as to why his Potions Master was anxious. Yes, there was the incident earlier that morning, but Poppy had seen to the boy, and his injuries were minimal. No, there was something else. Something much darker bothering Severus...dark enough for him to lie to the one man he trusted. This would bother most people. Albus Dumbledore was not most people.
Their relationship was something in and of itself - unconventional, unreal, and downright disturbing. It would frustrate most wizards to the point of using their own wand upon themselves. It was uncanny...they had this knack of speaking to each other, having a normal conversation - all the while; they knew what the other was really saying. Which was why it was so...unsettling to watch Severus lie. Surely he knew there was nothing he could keep from Dumbledore for very long.
"Good afternoon, Professor."
Severus nodded.
"Headmaster."
"I take it your classes are going smoothly..." ~How is Draco?~
A snort escaped his thinly pressed lips.
"As smoothly as one can expect from overly hormonal students, Headmaster." ~He's fine~
A twinkle danced in the old wizard's eyes.
"Ah yes, a wondrous thing - youth." ~That's good to hear~
"If by wondrous, you mean completely infuriating, then yes - I would have to agree with you." ~Yes~
"Come now, Severus...surely they aren't THAT much trouble." ~What happened?~
Snape gave the overly chipper Headmaster a look.
~Don't ask~
Dumbledore only smiled in return.
"Almost impossible to imagine old wizards like ourselves as that young." ~Talk to me~
"I was never that young." ~I cannot~
"Your memory does you an injustice, Severus...as I can, and do remember." ~No, you simply will not~
"I would like to think that I have absolutely nothing in common with these students, Albus. It is the only thing keeping me sane at this point." ~Things are...complicated~
The aging wizard chuckled.
"I do believe you aren't giving them enough credit." ~You trusted me for a time~
"I do not 'give' them anything. They must earn it." ~I still do~
"Are there none who've earned your esteem, Professor?" ~Then why?~
Severus lowered his gaze along with his voice.
"Draco Malfoy."
Dumbledore took in a deep breath, and nodded.
"Yes, yes...Draco certainly deserves your attention."
And then there was silence.
Surprisingly, it was Severus who spoke first.
"Perhaps I ought to bring him his lunch." He snorted. "I highly doubt Crabe or Goyle have thought far enough ahead to foresee his inevitable hunger." ~I have to do this, you understand~
"You've spent much of your time by his side already, Severus." Dumbledore gave him a knowing smile. "Why not let someone else take up the responsibility for Mr. Malfoy?" ~Yes, but you do not have to do it alone~
Professor Snape gave him an odd look. Hesitantly, he replied.
"Who else would do it, Albus?"
Slowly, and with a hint of reverence (just to sicken the confused Professor beside him), Dumbledore looked to the Gryffindor Table.
Severus began to laugh.
"Interesting choice, Headmaster." ~You already knew, didn't you?~
"Yes, well...he seemed the logical choice." ~Don't I always?~
Severus doubtfully looked to his friend.
"I...don't think he would." His dark eyes pleading with blue. ~Not of his own free will~
The old wizard smiled warmly, but cautiously.
"I believe he has already fallen into this role, Severus..." ~No, not of his own free will~
Grief stricken, but too stubborn to show any sign of it, Severus turned back to his lunch. His appetite, gone. No, Potter had not entered this of his own free will. And if Severus were to go to hell for his actions, manipulating an ignorant Gryffindor would be the least of his faults. Nonetheless, it had to be done. And, much to his distaste, Potter was in fact - the only logical choice.
"Severus?" He smiled. "Do give my regards to Mr. Potter, won't you?" ~Go, my friend. Do what you need to~
Surprised, though he shouldn't have been, Professor Snape nodded.
"You best hurry to tell him. He won't have much time." Dumbledore looked to the clock on the wall.
Severus nodded again.
~Thank you~
~*~
"Ron? What exactly am I supposed to do with these again?"
Hermione held up a dozen pictures of Professor Flitwick - all signed and autographed by the man himself - now neatly shrunk down to wallet size. All of the Gryffindors had insisted he personalize them.
"I don't know." Ron continued to chomp down on his turkey sandwich. "Wank off to 'em for all I care."
"RON!" Hermione squealed, her face properly flushed. "Women do NOT 'wank off'!"
Harry choked; bits of his sandwich flew out and onto the table.
"Sure you do! Everyone does. Don't they, Harry?" Appallingly, Ron was taking this discussion seriously.
"Best leave me out of this one, mate." Harry smiled. "I happen to value my life."
"No, seriously though. Girls wank off." He said matter-of- factly. "I've read about it."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "We most certainly do NOT."
"Don't give me that. How else would you...well, you know...relieve yourself?"
"We DO, how did you put it, 'relieve ourselves'..." Hermione's cheeks went red. "But we DON'T wank off! Honestly! We don't have anything to WANK!"
"Then what do you do?" Harry looked to her curiously.
Only then did Hermione realize how deep a hole she had just dug herself into.
"Wepddleouselvs."
"WHAT?" Both Harry and Ron questioned.
"Wepddleouselvs."
"You puddle your elves?"
"We piddle ourselves!"
Unfortunately, she had said this a bit too loud - as she could feel the rest of the table's eyes on her. Hermione kept her gaze down at her lunch. Only when a noticeable amount of time had passed with no one talking did she dare look up.
The first thing she noticed was the look on Ron's face. Bug- eyed, slack-jawed, the whole 'deer in headlights' look. Then Harry - basically the same, but with a small grin tugging on the sides of his mouth. A whole minute passed before anyone said anything.
"Piddle?"
It was Ron.
"Is that even a word?"
Harry's contribution to the conversation.
"Ooooooooh!" Hermione blew out the remaining air that had collected in her stomach. "I'm sorry I ever said anything."
Harry started to chuckle, and surprisingly Ron didn't follow in suit. Instead, a serious look swept his dumb expression away. It was a look of awe. Almost as if he had just been told the secret location that held the key to the treasures of the universe.
"Piddle." He said it with more certainty. "Yeah. That makes sense..."
"Ron! Don't you dare make fun of me!" Hermione hit him.
"No! I'm serious! It makes sense!" Ron made no attempt to back away. "Obviously, since you have nothing to wank, you'd have to piddle yourself." He shook his head in wonder. "I'm amazed I hadn't thought of it before."
Harry was holding his sides by this point. He had developed a serious stomachache from the day's laughter. That didn't stop him from continuing, though.
"It amazes me everyday that you have the capacity to think at all, Mr. Weasley." A sardonic voice called out from behind him. "Yet, it would appear you do - to some degree. I would imagine it takes at least a small amount of brain power to dress yourself every morning."
Snape's presence snapped Ron out of his epiphany and tugged him back down to reality. Had he just said 'piddle' out loud? And did Snape hear him? Oh Merlin - what a day. Luckily, Hermione had the good sense to address their least favorite professor.
"Is Draco alright, Professor?"
Snape turned towards her, fighting the urge to sneer. "I had no idea you cared, Miss Granger." She opened her mouth to protest, but he continued on. "Mr. Malfoy is alive and well and unconscious in the Infirmary, if you must know. Which brings me to why I'm tolerating your presence to begin with." His eyes fell on Harry.
~Meep~
Severus smiled a cruel and devious smile.
"I thought it might be a nice 'gesture' for you to bring Mr. Malfoy his lunch. Wouldn't you agree, Mr. Potter?"
Harry just sat there, wide-eyed. Eventually, he gulped and nodded.
"Good. Report to the kitchens and then to the Infirmary. And if I hear one grievance from Mr. Malfoy, I will make you pay within an inch of your life." Snape had managed to spit out the words as conversationally as he could. "Do we understand each other, Mr. Potter? Or do I need to draw you a picture?"
Harry wasn't brilliant, but it didn't take a genius to read between the lines Snape had drawn. He knew. He knew Harry was responsible for what happened to his prized pupil. But, for some reason...he couldn't do anything about it. Or worse, he wasn't telling Dumbledore for some OTHER reason. A small shudder swept down his spine.
"No. I understand."
Severus nodded.
"Then why are you still here?"
Quickly, Harry got out of his seat, grabbed his bag, and made for the kitchens.
~*~
Yeah, okay...so I told you Harry was going to use his **suggestion** in this chapter. I lied! I'm sorry. I didn't mean to, but there were a whole lot of other things I had to get in this chap. *hits forehead* Anyway, I know it's not the best chap I've written. But there you go. I had to get SOMETHING out to the masses before an upheaval ensued.
More is coming! I promise!!!
Thom: *grins and winks at ya* You are SO famous! Are you doing your dance? Hehehehe You should be. You laughed AND cried? Fabulous. That was exactly what I was going for. *claps enthusiastically* Thank you AGAIN for reading!!!
Icarus: Welcome back! *blushes madly* I am SO very sorry for assuming your sex, m'dear. Silly me. I shoulda known you were a girl! No GUY could write as well as you do. *nods lots* Yeah, don't ask about that whole "midgets and little people" comment...I have NO idea where it came from.
Arch/Artist Writer: Thank you for your kind review! I'm SO glad you liked the sex scene... I was all nervous and stuff - thinking no one in their right mind would EVER like it. Glad you proved me wrong! Thanks again!
Greenie: THANK YOU! *Grins MADLY* What a lovely review you left me! So sorry it took me so damn long to finally update. *shudders* But you know how the holidays are. Your kind words got me off my ass and writing again!!
Tarathol: I'm evil and you LOVE it!!! Bwahahahaha! Oh...wait. You already said that. Damn. I'm glad you love the story! *grins* Makes my heart sing...
Morri: Yes, yes I did. I had a veritable BLAST writing that chap. I'm feelin' pretty bad for Draco myself right about now. The trio will get theirs... Don't you worry. *evil grin* Thanks much, babe!
Benny Boy: In your entire life?? WOW. *grins and blushes* Thank you!!! A comedic GENIUS you say?? *laughs at herself* WOW. I'm without words. Thank you Benny! Oh, and I hope you don't get TOO many weird looks from your counterparts. I'd hate for my work to alienate you from your peers. Heh
My greatest f(r)an: *cackles madly* I was HOPING you'd find this funny, m'dear! I wrote half of it with you in mind, actually. Lol And yes, Draco's admissions hit Harry in more ways than one. Hopefully, I'll be able to put it into words in this next chap. Oh, to answer your question, there are a couple of reasons why Draco couldn't bring a girl to orgasm...you'll see. *cackles again* Thanks for reading! *Big Hug*
A/N: If I owned Harry Potter in all his glory, would I have to sell myself on the street corners of KC? I think not.
Summary: Ummmm...yeah. Chaos ensues.
Thanks: Will be given at the end of the story...(a neat trick I've seen others use)
Whew! Jesus please us - THAT TOOK FOREVER! I'll be surprised if you all remember this story- I'm SOOOO sorry it took me so DAMN long to update!! With Crimbos and New Years and working and EVERYTHING...frankly, I'm amazed I'm still alive. This chapter is a bit longer than the rest. I hope that helps to make up for its' absence. Please don't hate me too much.
Right.
To infinity, and BEYOND!
~*~
Impatient footsteps echoed off the walls and ceiling of the Infirmary - the sharp clacking intensified by the sterilized air. Pacing about, it would seem, had become a daily, and nightly, routine for Severus. His quick steps did little to help the already tense atmosphere, as Madam Pomfrey had given him a once-over more than once.
"Are you quite finished?" Her tone was one not to be trifled with.
Not that he cared.
"That all depends...are you?"
Madam Pomfrey rolled her eyes and resumed the through inspection of the unconscious boy that lay before her.
It was a familiar scene. He had been in the hospital wing more times than he could count in his lifetime. It felt like only yesterday he had been there himself as a student...a second degree burn here, a broken jaw there...he had his fair share of 'accidents' in his youth. Whether it was a potion gone horribly wrong, or another run-in with those...those Gryffindors...Severus Snape was in and out of the Hospital Wing at least once a week. Pain made you stronger, his father had always told him.
He wasn't the most respected, and feared, potions master in all of England for nothing.
Nor was it fear that caused Severus to pace about the Infirmary, although it did appear to be that way. He had given that boy quite a wallop, heaving him against a stone wall with all the strength of a grown man. But he knew Draco was fine. A bit bruised up, but fine. A previous and 'unknown' inspection had put the majority of his fears to rest...
No, it wasn't fear that kept Snape in constant motion - it was rage.
~*~
...Flashback...
~*~
A figure cloaked in black hurried down the dungeon corridor, unconscious student in arm, muttering furiously and silently to himself.
After everything that he had done...had sacrificed...he would be damned if it all fell apart like this. If he lost the boy to something as stupid as 'self-defense'. No. That would not...COULD not happen. Not now.
He had just passed a seemingly innocent wall when he slowed...and stopped. He looked to the stones briefly, then to Draco, then back at the wall. Without another thought, Severus muttered a few incantations, and the wall disappeared - exposing a doorway to a hidden room. Glancing over his shoulder, Severus quickly walked in, and the wall reappeared.
Once within the safety of his storeroom, Snape allowed himself a moment to focus. Draco needed to be under Madam Pomfrey's care, yes, but it was necessary to look him over first. It was imperative. Severus had his suspicions, and if they were correct, he would need to confirm them BEFORE Madam Pomfrey had a go at it. Too much was at risk...
Carefully, Severus laid the unconscious Slytherin down on the center table. He checked his pulse - it was steady. Wand out and ready, Snape muttered the spell.
"Expromo Cantamen"
A green flash lit the room...covering Draco in its light...and then disappeared.
Severus growled. Apparently, no magic was used to force Draco into performing those hideous acts. He thought a moment before starting another spell.
"Expromo Alienigena"
A blue light flashed into existence, hovered for a moment, and then flew to Draco's feet - covering him in its neon blue essence. Slowly, it began to scan his body, moving upwards from his feet. As it progressed, its blue light pierced through Draco - exposing his muscles, bones, blood...everything. Severus watched...and waited. His attention was finally caught when the blue light stopped, and flashed, directly over Draco's head.
'Surprise, surprise...' Severus' sense of humor could've rivaled Ron Wealsey's for popping up in THE most inappropriate times...had he been more apt to saying it rather than thinking it.
The blue light had exposed, deep within Draco's mind, three golden orbs. Pleased that his spell had done its job at exposing the foreign entities, Severus waved his hand, and the light disappeared.
"Commemoro"
Instantly, the three orbs levitated out of Draco's head and hovered - directly across from Severus. With another wave of his hand, the orbs unfolded into words. He couldn't help but chuckle.
"...of course..." Apparently, Potter and his friends thought that non-magical tactics would save their sorry behinds from punishment. He would be only too happy to prove them wrong. "Making good use of your knew bauble, I see..."
Amused, Severus read the **suggestions** out loud.
"When Hermione Granger says the word **Question**, you will, without hesitation, announce your deepest and darkest secrets. You will have no memory of this afterwards."
His head shook in disgust.
"When Ron Weasley says the word **Sir**, you will, without hesitation, believe that you're desperately in love with him...No one else exists in your world...Only after you realize this, will you see that his life is in danger, and YOU, Draco Malfoy, are the only person who can save him...A hoard of Flesh Eating Slugs will attack Professor Snape, and the only way to kill them is to hit them as hard as you can..."
His eyes widened as he read Ron's suggestion...before instinctively narrowing again. Oh, they would pay for this outrage.
"When Harry Potter says the phrase **You know you want me**, you will, without hesitation, answer truthfully..."
Snape cocked his head in thought and disbelief. Could a certain young Gryffindor be curious about his arch nemesis? Could there be more at play than a simple boyhood grudge? A curious smirk made its way to Severus' lips. This was working out much differently than he had planned.
With a wave of his hand, the three golden orbs disappeared out of existence...along with their influence.
~*~
...End Flashback...
~*~
To say that Severus was angry would be a grievous understatement. Kind of like saying the Titanic had a bit of a hole in its side.
Yes, he was angry. Well, more like infuriated - but not so much with Harry, Ron or Hermione - he was, in fact, more angry with himself than the three combined. And considering their history together, that IS saying something.
The little prank they pulled in his potions class was most certainly detention worthy, if not expulsion...but the actual 'act' of punishment would be trickier. How could he prove it? And even if he could, SHOULD he? After all, in a round about way, it was his fault the prank occurred in the first place.
Questions would rise...
How did they manage to hypnotize Draco? What did they use? How did they get it? Professor Snape, do you know anything about this?
Too many questions...
"Professor?"
Severus had stopped pacing...his fists were balled up...knuckles white...teeth clenched...
"Severus?"
Up went the mask.
"Poppy?"
A soft smile reached Madam Pompfrey's lips.
"Mister Malfoy, he seems to be in fine shape. Mind you, he'll have quite a bump on his head for a few days, but it's nothing rest and a good amount of ice won't fix." She motioned to Draco, who was still unconscious. "You may see him now."
"Thank you." He quickly made his was over to the bed.
"Although..." She called over her shoulder. "I would advise you not to handle your students quite so roughly in the future."
He smirked.
"You would do well to tell THEM the same thing."
~*~
It was at least two hours before Draco finally awoke. The world was a big white blur. Groggily, Draco covered his eyes.
"Arrrrgh...too bright..."
Then, the pain hit.
"OWWwww."
He gingerly put his hand to the back of his head, lightly tapping a feel for the massive bump that had formed.
"Careful. You'll do yourself another injury."
Draco squeaked his eyes open - a dark, blurry, brooding mass sat before him.
"Snape?"
"Ahhh...I'll thank you for not calling me Severus."
The world was still spinning a bit. Perhaps he heard wrong. "I called you Severus?"
"Actually, you called me Severus MY LOVE, right before you jumped onto my back...but I will spare you the sordid details."
Draco's eyes were fully open by this point.
"I called you...I jumped...what?"
Snape put his hands up in defense. "You were not...yourself today in class."
After an agonizing eternity, Severus explained the morning's...events...to the both of their embarrassment. Draco had turned red, and then green, finally settling on white before Snape was done. His worst fears confirmed.
"I...this can't be happening." His eyes were wide - focusing on anything and everything BUT Snape.
"I regret to inform you that yes, it is." Snape hardly looked amused. "And it will be dealt with accordingly."
At that, Draco managed to look him in the eye.
"Potter..."
A small flicker of...something...was visible behind Severus' gaze, though Draco couldn't tell what it was exactly.
"We...don't know that it was indeed Mr. Potter or not..." Professor Snape was not a man known to stammer - but this was the closest he'd ever come to it.
"WHAT?" Draco's look was incredulous. "Of COURSE it was Potter! Who else would it be?"
A considerable amount of bile had started to collect in the back of his throat, yet Severus remained composed. "Madam Pomfrey scanned you for traces of magic...there were none..."
"So he used another way! Muggle methods! I don't know...Hypnosis! Something!"
"I HIGHLY doubt Mr. Potter is capable of hypnosis," Severus sneered. "That would require brain power."
"So that Mudblood Granger did it!" Draco was fuming, his nostrils flared. "ONE of them did THIS."
"I need not remind you of your current situation, Mr. Malfoy..." Severus raised an eyebrow - an unspoken warning. "...to bring such attention to yourself AND Mr. Potter would be unwise."
Snape's word of caution sank deep into Draco's stomach. After wincing a moment, he nodded reluctantly. Professor Snape was right. He was always right. But how long would this be held over his head? He hadn't asked to be rescued, not that he wasn't grateful...but still. As much as he admired his professor, Draco couldn't help but feel a twinge of resentment towards him.
"Yes, Sir."
Severus nodded, and the subject was carefully dropped.
"Madam Pomfrey has informed me that you are to miss the rest of your classes today, as you are in dire need of rest." Even though he secretly agreed with her, Severus made a point of relaying her message after thoroughly dousing it in sarcasm. It did not go unnoticed, as Draco snorted in reply.
"Yes, well...I don't see how rest will help the sizeable protuberance on the back of my head, as it hurts like hell to lay down." His smirk doing little to hide the truth in his statement.
"Yes. About that..." Severus shifted in his seat. "Draco...I"
"...had no choice. I know." The blonde Slytherin lowered his gaze. "It seems I left you little alternative."
"Regardless, it does not excuse what I did..."
"Don't." Grey eyes met black, and Severus shut his mouth. "Don't."
In that moment, Severus understood. He understood why the Dark Lord wanted the boy. Despite his childish actions, his very presence commanded respect. Those silver eyes told a tale of pain and power, pain that was inevitable in the quest for such power. And to have learned such lessons so early...Severus closed his eyes and thought of the agony that awaited the unsuspecting boy. No amount of childhood suffering could prepared him for what was to come...IF...if it were to come to pass. It was a big if. Severus opened his eyes again, and carefully looked upon the potential embodiment of evil that lay before him.
A tangible moment of awkwardness rang clear throughout the Infirmary. Apparently, he had been staring a second or two too long...as Draco was now staring at him curiously.
Severus sighed.
"If it makes you feel any better..." A small flickering of a smirk traced the edges of his lips. "...I imagined you were Potter when I slammed you against the wall."
For the first time that week, Draco genuinely laughed. The grey melted into silver and danced, reflecting the sunlight that poured into the Infirmary...catching Severus off guard for a moment. A twinge of hope fluttered in his chest as he recognized the reflection - innocence. Perhaps there was a chance after all.
And for the first time...EVER...Severus genuinely smiled.
"I will leave you to your recovery, then."
Severus had just gotten up to leave when Draco called him back.
"**Professor?**"
"**GIGGLE** Yes?"
Draco stared at him with a look of disbelief and horror mixed with amusement. His mouth had gone dry.
"Yes, Mister Malfoy?"
Draco shook his head, regaining his composure. Surely he had not heard him correctly.
"Er, yes. I was wondering if I am still to join you after dinner tonight?"
"Hmmmm." Severus grazed the underside of his chin. "I don't see why not. Yes. That is..." His tone grew sarcastic again. "...if you feel up to it."
Draco grinned. "Oh, I don't know. I could faint at any time."
"Seven o'clock. Don't be late."
"I won't be, **Professor**"
"I should **GIGGLE** think not." And with that, Severus made his way out.
Draco sat for what seemed like an eternity, pondering the horror that was Severus Snape giggling like a schoolgirl. He wondered briefly if he should've mentioned it.
~*~
The rest of the morning passed uneventfully for the three Gryffindors. Although, Charms with Professor Flitwick had turned out to be an enjoyable class - almost as enjoyable as Potions had been, but without a notably insane Draco Malfoy prancing about. Nonetheless, Charms had proven to be entertaining.
Poor Professor Flitwick.
It had been quite a chore getting the Gryffindor section of the class to quiet down before the lesson had even started - but it would prove to be a futile effort as the time wore on.
"Now class, today we will be...Mr. Longbottom, would you kindly stop giggling. Thank you. As I was saying...Mr. Thomas, Mr. Finnigan, do I need to remind you of how rude it is to snicker when others are talking? No. I thought not. Where was I? Oh yes! Today's lesson involves...Miss Brown! Miss Patel! Girls! Girls! I don't want to tell you again. Please stop this at once. What has gotten into you all?"
Hermione shot everyone a look. They did their best to keep quiet.
"Thank you Miss Granger. Now then...today we will be practicing the spell 'decresco perquam'." Professor Flitwick looked around at the class. "Can anyone tell me what it means?"
Only one hand went up. And it belonged to a Miss Hermione Granger, who was very red in the face.
"Yes, Miss Granger!"
"I, ummm, I know what it means, Sir."
"Very well, would you care to share it with the rest of the class?"
"To be perfectly honest, Sir...I don't think that's a good idea." Hermione had turned a few shades darker.
"What is it?" Ron hissed to no one in particular.
"I think I know..." Harry smiled, trying to suppress his laughter.
"Miss Granger, I wouldn't have asked the question if I didn't want an answer!" Flitwick cheerfully replied. "Now go on, tell us all what it means."
Hermione took in a deep breath.
"It's an extremely powerful shrinking spell."
Snickering erupted from all corners of the class, much to the Ravenclaws' and Professor Flitwick's confusion.
"Thank you Miss Granger. You are correct. Five points to Gryffindor."
Ron elbowed her in the ribs. "It's a shame Malfoy's missing this."
"Malfoy isn't in Ravenclaw, you half-wit." Hermione rolled her eyes.
Ron rolled his eyes in return. "Still..."
"Mr. Weasley?"
Ron shot to attention.
"Yes, Professor?"
"I was asking if you would like to volunteer and ideas as to what we should be shrinking today?"
Even Hermione couldn't hold back a chuckle at the set up.
"Umm...*snicker*...maybe a...*chuckle*..." Hermione elbowed him. "How about a picture of you, Professor?"
"A picture? Of me?" Professor Flitwick looked around the class, his cheeks slightly pink. "Oh, I don't know. I doubt that would make a very interesting lesson..."
But before he could finish, every single student in Gryffindor shouted out.
"Yes!" "You should do it!" "That'd be brilliant!" "Do you have any pictures?" "Can I have one?" "Oh, PLEASE!" "It would be GREAT!"
Shocked by the sudden enthusiasm, but slightly touched at the same time, Professor Flitwick turned a bright shade of red.
"Well, if you think..."
There was a resounding YES.
"Okay then!" He cheerfully bounded behind his desk. "I have a stockpile here for just such an occasion."
As Flitwick ruffled through some papers, Hermione lightly punched Ron on the shoulder.
"What the hell is wrong with you!?"
"WHAT?" Ron snickered. "Come off it. He doesn't know." He pointed to the clueless professor. "Look! He said he had a stockpile ready. C'mon! It's fate, that is. Don't you think, Harry?"
But Harry just shook his head. He was too busy crying from laughing so hard.
"Besides..." Ron wiggled his eyebrows. "Maybe he'll sign 'em after class."
Hermione looked indignant. "Really!" Then paused a moment.
"Do you think he would?"
~*~
Lunch had already begun by the time Severus graced the Great Hall with his brooding presence. In one swift movement, he drew back his chair, sat down, and pulled himself forward - graceful, composed, with an edge of 'don't fuck with me right now.' To the majority of Hogwarts, this was his usual stance. However, to those who knew him well, IE - Dumbledore, he was stressed. Abnormally stressed. Which was a disturbing thought.
Even more disturbing was the fact that Albus had no idea as to why his Potions Master was anxious. Yes, there was the incident earlier that morning, but Poppy had seen to the boy, and his injuries were minimal. No, there was something else. Something much darker bothering Severus...dark enough for him to lie to the one man he trusted. This would bother most people. Albus Dumbledore was not most people.
Their relationship was something in and of itself - unconventional, unreal, and downright disturbing. It would frustrate most wizards to the point of using their own wand upon themselves. It was uncanny...they had this knack of speaking to each other, having a normal conversation - all the while; they knew what the other was really saying. Which was why it was so...unsettling to watch Severus lie. Surely he knew there was nothing he could keep from Dumbledore for very long.
"Good afternoon, Professor."
Severus nodded.
"Headmaster."
"I take it your classes are going smoothly..." ~How is Draco?~
A snort escaped his thinly pressed lips.
"As smoothly as one can expect from overly hormonal students, Headmaster." ~He's fine~
A twinkle danced in the old wizard's eyes.
"Ah yes, a wondrous thing - youth." ~That's good to hear~
"If by wondrous, you mean completely infuriating, then yes - I would have to agree with you." ~Yes~
"Come now, Severus...surely they aren't THAT much trouble." ~What happened?~
Snape gave the overly chipper Headmaster a look.
~Don't ask~
Dumbledore only smiled in return.
"Almost impossible to imagine old wizards like ourselves as that young." ~Talk to me~
"I was never that young." ~I cannot~
"Your memory does you an injustice, Severus...as I can, and do remember." ~No, you simply will not~
"I would like to think that I have absolutely nothing in common with these students, Albus. It is the only thing keeping me sane at this point." ~Things are...complicated~
The aging wizard chuckled.
"I do believe you aren't giving them enough credit." ~You trusted me for a time~
"I do not 'give' them anything. They must earn it." ~I still do~
"Are there none who've earned your esteem, Professor?" ~Then why?~
Severus lowered his gaze along with his voice.
"Draco Malfoy."
Dumbledore took in a deep breath, and nodded.
"Yes, yes...Draco certainly deserves your attention."
And then there was silence.
Surprisingly, it was Severus who spoke first.
"Perhaps I ought to bring him his lunch." He snorted. "I highly doubt Crabe or Goyle have thought far enough ahead to foresee his inevitable hunger." ~I have to do this, you understand~
"You've spent much of your time by his side already, Severus." Dumbledore gave him a knowing smile. "Why not let someone else take up the responsibility for Mr. Malfoy?" ~Yes, but you do not have to do it alone~
Professor Snape gave him an odd look. Hesitantly, he replied.
"Who else would do it, Albus?"
Slowly, and with a hint of reverence (just to sicken the confused Professor beside him), Dumbledore looked to the Gryffindor Table.
Severus began to laugh.
"Interesting choice, Headmaster." ~You already knew, didn't you?~
"Yes, well...he seemed the logical choice." ~Don't I always?~
Severus doubtfully looked to his friend.
"I...don't think he would." His dark eyes pleading with blue. ~Not of his own free will~
The old wizard smiled warmly, but cautiously.
"I believe he has already fallen into this role, Severus..." ~No, not of his own free will~
Grief stricken, but too stubborn to show any sign of it, Severus turned back to his lunch. His appetite, gone. No, Potter had not entered this of his own free will. And if Severus were to go to hell for his actions, manipulating an ignorant Gryffindor would be the least of his faults. Nonetheless, it had to be done. And, much to his distaste, Potter was in fact - the only logical choice.
"Severus?" He smiled. "Do give my regards to Mr. Potter, won't you?" ~Go, my friend. Do what you need to~
Surprised, though he shouldn't have been, Professor Snape nodded.
"You best hurry to tell him. He won't have much time." Dumbledore looked to the clock on the wall.
Severus nodded again.
~Thank you~
~*~
"Ron? What exactly am I supposed to do with these again?"
Hermione held up a dozen pictures of Professor Flitwick - all signed and autographed by the man himself - now neatly shrunk down to wallet size. All of the Gryffindors had insisted he personalize them.
"I don't know." Ron continued to chomp down on his turkey sandwich. "Wank off to 'em for all I care."
"RON!" Hermione squealed, her face properly flushed. "Women do NOT 'wank off'!"
Harry choked; bits of his sandwich flew out and onto the table.
"Sure you do! Everyone does. Don't they, Harry?" Appallingly, Ron was taking this discussion seriously.
"Best leave me out of this one, mate." Harry smiled. "I happen to value my life."
"No, seriously though. Girls wank off." He said matter-of- factly. "I've read about it."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "We most certainly do NOT."
"Don't give me that. How else would you...well, you know...relieve yourself?"
"We DO, how did you put it, 'relieve ourselves'..." Hermione's cheeks went red. "But we DON'T wank off! Honestly! We don't have anything to WANK!"
"Then what do you do?" Harry looked to her curiously.
Only then did Hermione realize how deep a hole she had just dug herself into.
"Wepddleouselvs."
"WHAT?" Both Harry and Ron questioned.
"Wepddleouselvs."
"You puddle your elves?"
"We piddle ourselves!"
Unfortunately, she had said this a bit too loud - as she could feel the rest of the table's eyes on her. Hermione kept her gaze down at her lunch. Only when a noticeable amount of time had passed with no one talking did she dare look up.
The first thing she noticed was the look on Ron's face. Bug- eyed, slack-jawed, the whole 'deer in headlights' look. Then Harry - basically the same, but with a small grin tugging on the sides of his mouth. A whole minute passed before anyone said anything.
"Piddle?"
It was Ron.
"Is that even a word?"
Harry's contribution to the conversation.
"Ooooooooh!" Hermione blew out the remaining air that had collected in her stomach. "I'm sorry I ever said anything."
Harry started to chuckle, and surprisingly Ron didn't follow in suit. Instead, a serious look swept his dumb expression away. It was a look of awe. Almost as if he had just been told the secret location that held the key to the treasures of the universe.
"Piddle." He said it with more certainty. "Yeah. That makes sense..."
"Ron! Don't you dare make fun of me!" Hermione hit him.
"No! I'm serious! It makes sense!" Ron made no attempt to back away. "Obviously, since you have nothing to wank, you'd have to piddle yourself." He shook his head in wonder. "I'm amazed I hadn't thought of it before."
Harry was holding his sides by this point. He had developed a serious stomachache from the day's laughter. That didn't stop him from continuing, though.
"It amazes me everyday that you have the capacity to think at all, Mr. Weasley." A sardonic voice called out from behind him. "Yet, it would appear you do - to some degree. I would imagine it takes at least a small amount of brain power to dress yourself every morning."
Snape's presence snapped Ron out of his epiphany and tugged him back down to reality. Had he just said 'piddle' out loud? And did Snape hear him? Oh Merlin - what a day. Luckily, Hermione had the good sense to address their least favorite professor.
"Is Draco alright, Professor?"
Snape turned towards her, fighting the urge to sneer. "I had no idea you cared, Miss Granger." She opened her mouth to protest, but he continued on. "Mr. Malfoy is alive and well and unconscious in the Infirmary, if you must know. Which brings me to why I'm tolerating your presence to begin with." His eyes fell on Harry.
~Meep~
Severus smiled a cruel and devious smile.
"I thought it might be a nice 'gesture' for you to bring Mr. Malfoy his lunch. Wouldn't you agree, Mr. Potter?"
Harry just sat there, wide-eyed. Eventually, he gulped and nodded.
"Good. Report to the kitchens and then to the Infirmary. And if I hear one grievance from Mr. Malfoy, I will make you pay within an inch of your life." Snape had managed to spit out the words as conversationally as he could. "Do we understand each other, Mr. Potter? Or do I need to draw you a picture?"
Harry wasn't brilliant, but it didn't take a genius to read between the lines Snape had drawn. He knew. He knew Harry was responsible for what happened to his prized pupil. But, for some reason...he couldn't do anything about it. Or worse, he wasn't telling Dumbledore for some OTHER reason. A small shudder swept down his spine.
"No. I understand."
Severus nodded.
"Then why are you still here?"
Quickly, Harry got out of his seat, grabbed his bag, and made for the kitchens.
~*~
Yeah, okay...so I told you Harry was going to use his **suggestion** in this chapter. I lied! I'm sorry. I didn't mean to, but there were a whole lot of other things I had to get in this chap. *hits forehead* Anyway, I know it's not the best chap I've written. But there you go. I had to get SOMETHING out to the masses before an upheaval ensued.
More is coming! I promise!!!
Thom: *grins and winks at ya* You are SO famous! Are you doing your dance? Hehehehe You should be. You laughed AND cried? Fabulous. That was exactly what I was going for. *claps enthusiastically* Thank you AGAIN for reading!!!
Icarus: Welcome back! *blushes madly* I am SO very sorry for assuming your sex, m'dear. Silly me. I shoulda known you were a girl! No GUY could write as well as you do. *nods lots* Yeah, don't ask about that whole "midgets and little people" comment...I have NO idea where it came from.
Arch/Artist Writer: Thank you for your kind review! I'm SO glad you liked the sex scene... I was all nervous and stuff - thinking no one in their right mind would EVER like it. Glad you proved me wrong! Thanks again!
Greenie: THANK YOU! *Grins MADLY* What a lovely review you left me! So sorry it took me so damn long to finally update. *shudders* But you know how the holidays are. Your kind words got me off my ass and writing again!!
Tarathol: I'm evil and you LOVE it!!! Bwahahahaha! Oh...wait. You already said that. Damn. I'm glad you love the story! *grins* Makes my heart sing...
Morri: Yes, yes I did. I had a veritable BLAST writing that chap. I'm feelin' pretty bad for Draco myself right about now. The trio will get theirs... Don't you worry. *evil grin* Thanks much, babe!
Benny Boy: In your entire life?? WOW. *grins and blushes* Thank you!!! A comedic GENIUS you say?? *laughs at herself* WOW. I'm without words. Thank you Benny! Oh, and I hope you don't get TOO many weird looks from your counterparts. I'd hate for my work to alienate you from your peers. Heh
My greatest f(r)an: *cackles madly* I was HOPING you'd find this funny, m'dear! I wrote half of it with you in mind, actually. Lol And yes, Draco's admissions hit Harry in more ways than one. Hopefully, I'll be able to put it into words in this next chap. Oh, to answer your question, there are a couple of reasons why Draco couldn't bring a girl to orgasm...you'll see. *cackles again* Thanks for reading! *Big Hug*