Disclaimer: I don't own the characters. But I make up there weird
personalities!
A/N: Woot! This was a record amount of reviews for a single chapter for me ever! YAY! I'm thanking you from the pit of my soul. ;)
Oooooooooo, this is weird I didn't even get half the things in this chapter that I wanted to so they'll end up in the next chapter. Much scariness.
So I'd like to thank:
ankhangel88: I don't know anyone who can't resist a baby Severus.
KittenBabyGirl: Thank you!
Andromeda Snape-Malfoy: If you have a suggestion for a better summary I'd like to hear it because I stink at writing them.
Ryo: I have a live journal that I've been neglecting because no one says anything to me and I'll prolly post cookies and the like up there if I get more response!
Kears: I think you misunderstood something. Snape will return to his original age after 3 weeks, just the de-aging potion only allows him to reach 5 before he goes back to being middle age. I hope that clears things up.
sb4rl: Thank you! (
Vekura: Ahhhh theres a reason for the romance genre that won't really appear until much later in the story
Erica: Continuing...continuing....
Chibidaima: Of course I'm writing more of this why wouldn't I?
Toria: hehehehe of course Harry spoke for his friends. He knows Ron too well. Hope you enjoy this next chapter.
Slytheretta: Thank you! I'm surprised at the lack of lil Sev stories myself.
Spacecatdet: Yea, there aren't enough. That's why I wrote one! And only Snape knows why he called for Harry. I blame it on to much time thinking about how much he 'hates' him.
Garner: Everyone should like a baby Sev! Hope you like this next chapter.
Sweet-single: Why thank you ^_^
*********
~* Previously *~
"That I don't know, that is what Madame Pomfrey told me, so I'm telling you. And, since I've left him in Harry's care, I expect that you two will end up helping. Am I right?"
"Yes, sir, they'll help." Harry said for them before they could form any means of protest.
*************
Ron stared at Harry in shock.
"We are?" He asked. Harry gave him a strange look, before nodding in the affirmative. "But Harry-"
"Ron," said Hermione sharply. Ron looked abashed and turned away. "Let's go."
Ron nodded and muttered 'sorry' before taking off.
Dumbledore leaned back in his chair and silently observed the exchange between friends before speaking.
"Miss Granger, may I have a word with you before you leave?"
"Yes, sir."
Hermione sat down in one of the chairs. Harry stood up, lifting Severus into his arms, then sat in the other unoccupied chair.
"As you are both now well aware, we are in dire need of a person to teach potions."
They both nodded. Harry stroked the little boys hair absentmindedly. He felt Severus shift on his lap and looked down where he was met by a pair of black eyes staring back at him curiously. Severus turned his head and saw Dumbledore and giggled, before burying his head in Harry's robes. Hermione chuckled softly at the little boys antics. He turned his head and stared at Hermione intently. He stuck his thumb in his mouth and sucked on it.
Cautiously, Severus reached out with his spare hand towards Hermione. He started to wiggle around on Harry's lap trying to get down. Harry held on tightly to the squirming two year old as he carefully lowered him to the ground. Severus smiled at Harry, then ran over to Hermione. He placed his hands on her lap and looked up at her expectantly. She smiled and lifted him onto her lap. He giggled delightedly.
Harry looked at the headmaster. Dumbledore gave Harry a quick wink. Harry smirked and slouched in his chair. Looking over at Hermione to see if she was ready he said, "You were saying, Professor?"
"Oh yes," said Dumbledore, "I'd like to offer you the position, Hermione. Of course there will be some help especially when it comes to the Slytherins."
"Who?" Hermione asked in confusion.
Dumbledore regarded her over his half-moon spectacles. "I was thinking young Mr. Malfoy, if that wouldn't be a problem."
"I don't think so."
"Good., that's very good indeed, That will be all for now Miss Granger."
"Yes, sir. See you later, Harry," said Hermione depositing Severus back into Harry's care. Harry took him and nodded bye to Hermione.
Severus waved his hand and said, "Bye-bye, Mina."
Hermione ruffled his hair, earning a grin, then left the office. Harry once again turned his attention back on the headmaster. He felt Severus shiver slightly. He started to rub Severus' arms to warm up the little bot and he caught a glimpse of bear flesh on his forearm.
"Sir?" Harry asked tentatively. "The mark."
"What about the mark?"
"It's not there anymore."
"No it wouldn't be would it. You see, Harry, Severus' wouldn't have the scar yet, for he's too young."
"Does that mean he can't be summoned?"
"No I'm afraid he can still be summoned. Harry, the Dark Lord marks his followers in more ways then just the mark."
"How?"
Dumbledore sighed and rubbed his eyelids, before locking his gaze with a portrait of a former headmaster that was staring intently at the conversation that was happening. After seeing the woman in the portrait nod at him he returned his gaze to the younger man who was sitting in front of him.
"Harry, no one truly knows all the spells charms and incantations that were performed over that mark. Even though the mark is gone doesn't mean anything. Voldemort thought it necessary to bind each of his inner circle's souls to his." Harry's eyes widened. "The only way for that bond to break would be if someone of equal power broke its connection and connected the others soul to his or hers or if one or the other dies."
"Bound?" said Harry meekly. He unintentionally hugged the little boy in his lap closer. "So," he remarked offhandedly, "No pressure, right?"
Dumbledore smiled at the sarcastic comment. "No, no pressure at all."
Harry slumped down into his chair and frowned. Severus gazed up at Harry, concern and curiosity reflecting in his eyes.
"Har-wy?" He asked, tears forming in his eyes and gliding down his cheeks. Harry gave the little boy a weak grin then wiped his face with a tissue from his pocket.
"It's alright." Harry said trying to get Severus to stop crying. "What would you like?"
Severus' eyes got big , he sniffled slightly, then stopped crying all together. "Stwicor." He stated firmly turning his puppy dog eyes onto Harry. Harry shook his head in confusion. "Stwicor!" Snape said loudly pointing at the crest on Harry's robe.
"Oh," said Harry in understanding. "You want a sticker. Well, I don't have one. Let's ask Professor Dumbledore if he has one."
Severus immediately turned his sad stare at Dumbledore. "Stwicor." He demanded. Dumbledore smiled kindly. "Pwease." He added as an afterthought.
Harry looked Dumbledore. Dumbledore smiled and conjured one and handed it to Harry, who stuck it on Severus' shirt. Severus smiled happily and took it off his shirt to examine it.
"Sir, before we drift to off topic, has Voldemort called for a meeting recently." Harry asked hoping the answer would be yes.
"Unfortunately, no, he hasn't and Severus had just come to me the day before voicing his concern about it."
"I see," Adopting a far off look, he gazed at Fawkes who was preening himself on his perch. Mulling things over in his mind, Harry could only think of one thing. "But what if he does?" asked Harry in concern, "We can't have a toddler go to him. It would be suicide and Voldemort's not a very kind person when it comes to not answering his summons. I mean he can almost kill people through the mark."
"I know these things only too well. Harry there are other reasons why I put him in your care other then the fact that he doesn't like to be around anyone else for too long. This was one of them. You know from personal experience what it's like to suffer immense pain, there will be a charm that I'm going to place over you two before you leave this office."
"Sir?" asked Harry hesitantly.
"It will transfer some of the pain that he will be feeling tenfold onto you. Harry you being older means you can withstand more pain. Being only a toddler everything that Voldemort does to him will feel ten times worse then it ever has."
Harry gulped audibly and squeezed Severus in reassurance. "Whatever it takes, sir."
They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments. Harry was thinking about what it could mean if Severus was called when he was still little and sighed softly.
"There is something else you may want to know before you leave for the night."
"What's that?"
"It's about his memories."
"His memories, sir?"
"They will be coming back to him slowly as the days go by especially towards the last three days. Now this may be a good thing or a bad thing."
"How so?"
"Well, they might come on strongly. He will be in shock for a little bit. All I'm asking is for you to be understanding. Also his memories will come back in order of receiving them and they will be mixed with the memories of these next few days with you, but when he gets back to your first year, be prepared for mood swings on his behalf."
"Yes, sir." He said. "Did you say he'll remember everything that's going to happen in the next few days?"
"Yes, I did." Dumbledore gazed intently at Harry for a few moments. "Harry, may I inquire as to why you seem to be taking all this so well?"
"Mainly because I know I'd have to do even if I said no because I'd feel incredibly guilty if I didn't and also because I happen to care for Snape." Harry bowed his head and smiled down at Severus who was still busy with his new sticker. "More then he probably knows." The last part was spoken so softly that Dumbledore wasn't certain if he had heard correctly or not. But when Harry kept his head down Dumbledore knew he had heard correctly.
"Ah," he said with a smile. Harry blushed slightly, but didn't raise his head. "I'm sure you're curious about your new room."
Harry's head shot up and he looked at Dumbledore with surprise. "Room? What room?"
"If I am not mistaken the boys who you currently share a room won't exactly appreciate having to sleep in the same room as a two year old Snape."
"No, they probably wouldn't."
"So, I took it upon myself to make sure you had a room to stay with young Severus until the potion wore off. All of your things are already there, including things to take care of him. There are clothing for every age in a bureau that will be placed in the room along with a chest full of toys for him to play with whenever he needs a distraction along with a few picture books. Dobby said he'll be more then happy to serve you whenever you need anything. Now if you need anything you know where to find me." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled merrily. "Dobby, will escort you to your new room momentarily. In the mean time, would you care for a sherbert lemon?" Harry accepted the offered treat much to the Headmaster's surprise.
"Thank you." Harry said standing up abruptly. Severus clung tightly to Harry's robes in fear. Harry winced slightly at the reaction. Dobby entered the office and bowed deeply.
"Dobby will be showing Harry Potter to his room now." Said Dobby pulling at the hem of Harry's robe.
"Alright, lead the way."
"Wait a moment." Harry stopped and turned to face Dumbledore once again. Dumbledore took out his wand and muttered a few incantations the smiled and said that he could leave now.
Dobby smiled and hastily left the office. Harry followed after him slowly trying to calm Severus down who had been terrified by the sight of the house elf. Not that Harry could blame him. Dobby wasn't exactly the most pleasant looking creature around. He looked ahead and saw Dobby staring at him nervously. Speeding up slightly he caught up with Dobby and gave him an encouraging smile.
Dobby returned the smile and continued on his way until the reached a painting of a woman with a snake coiled around her neck, smiling sweetly at him. She winked at Harry and blew him a kiss. Harry turned beat red and looked down at Dobby.
"Do you know the password by any chance?"
"No, You is supposed to give it one."
"I am, eh?"
Dobby nodded his head emphatically.
"Hmm, well then what should the password be?" he mused. Severus looked up at Harry curiously and started to suck his thumb again. Harry thoughts were plagued with thoughts of Draco's taunting earlier that day and an idea struck him. He smirked.
"I know 'Dumbledore's golden boy.'"
Dobby gave him a weird look told him that there was dinner waiting for him inside and left. Harry returned his attention to the portrait.
"So, who should I address?" Harry asked first in plain English then in parseltongue. The snake in the picture raised his head in surprise at being addressed and told Harry that he should talk to the woman whose name is Samara, but could talk to him if he wished. Harry nodded and told him thanks, before telling Samara the password.
The picture swung open revealing an arched passage way. Harry hurried along it and came out into an open room that was about half the size of the Gryffindor common room. Harry looked around in awe and saw Severus looking around the room with the same expression.
"Well, what do you think is it big enough?"
Severus nodded. Harry smiled and explored the rest of the place discovering not only did he have his own personal bedroom but also a private bath. Harry was in a proverbial heaven as he re-entered the makeshift common room. He spotted the food over on a table in the corner with a highchair.
"Hungwy, Har-wy," said Severus as his stomach rumbled.
"Ok then, let's see what they left us to eat." Severus continued to suck on his thumb.
Harry walked over to the table and saw a plate with half a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on it and a plate with some shepherd's pie and a dinner roll. Removing the tray part of the high chair, Harry carefully placed Severus into it, buckled him in, putting a bib he had found on the table on him, then proceeded to place the tray back on it and put the plate with the sandwich on it.
Severus took his thumb out of his mouth and picked at the sandwich with one hand, before picking it up and trying to eat it. Some grape jelly squirted out the end of the sandwich and got on his hands. Severus looked at his sticky hand and wiped it on his shirt.
Harry watched all this with amusement. He watched as Severus once again took a bite of the sandwich, no jelly came out this time and Harry sighed in relief. Harry returned his attention to his own meal and began to eat it. He continued to keep a close watch on Severus and chuckled as Severus tried to get some of the stickiness off his hands onto his face. Finishing his meal quickly, Harry took Severus out of the highchair and brought him into the bathroom.
Setting him down in the tub, he sighed and took off the little boy's shirt and threw it aside. Harry then took out a washcloth and ran some warm water over it and rubbed some soap in it. He then turned to Severus who was watching Harry intently. Harry approached him slowly. Taking up the sticky hand, Harry scrubbed it clean and turned his attention onto the other one. Harry rinsed the washcloth and reapplied some soap and lightly scrubbed Severus' face with small circles. Once he was cleaned up he took him out of the tub and brought him into the bedroom.
Realising he forgot to change Severus' diaper he brought him back into the bathroom and changed it rapidly trying to get it out of the way as fast as humanly possible.
When that was all over, Harry put Severus in the crib and walked over to the bureau, opened the top drawer and peered inside. He saw shirts in assorted colours and sizes. Opening the next drawer he discovered some pants and in the last drawer he found some socks underpants and a couple of pairs of pyjamas.
Severus stood up and peered over the edge of the crib, watching as Harry pulled out a pair of blue flannel pyjamas.
"Do you like these?" Harry asked.
"Yes!" He smiled and bounced up and down slightly in excitement. Harry rolled his eyes and pulled the pyjamas on over his head. He finally got the arms through then proceeded to put on the matching pants.
"There, all done," said Harry happily, picking Severus up out of the crib. He took a quick look at the clock seeing that it was only 6:45 he went back out into the main room again.
Placing Severus on the floor he went over to the book shelf and pulled off The Little Engine That Could. He pulled Severus onto his lap and opened the book. Severus leaned against Harry and listened as Harry began to read the story.
*******************
"Ron, have you seen Harry recently?" Hermione asked as they made their way back to the common room from the Great Hall. She looked down at her watch and was surprise to see that it was already 7:30.
"No," He looked at her nervously. "Where do you suppose he is?"
"I don't know, Ron. Maybe we should go see Professor Dumbledore and find out if he knows where Harry went."
"Ok. Let's go." He took her hand and they made their way to the headmasters office slowly. As they rounded the corner Ron pulled Hermione into a quick kiss. Hermione gasped in surprise, then giggled as Ron tried to lean in for another kiss and missed, kissing her on the nose instead. Letting her go, the uttered the password to the stone gargoyle and made their way up the steps. Hermione knocked on the door.
Dumbledore opened the door and let them in.
"What brings you two here?" he asked shutting the door behind them.
"Sir," Ron said, "We were wondering if you knew where Harry was. He wasn't in the great hall for dinner."
"That's because he was getting settled in." Dumbledore said.
"Settled in?" Hermione asked. "Settled in where?"
"His room for the remainder of the month. Both Harry and I were fairly sure that the boys in your dorm wouldn't appreciate having a five year old sleeping with them."
Ron smirked thinking of the reactions all the guys would have had. "No, they wouldn't."
"I'm sure you would like to know where this room is wouldn't you?"
"Yes, sir." Hermione said quickly.
"His new room is behind the picture of the woman holding the snake. Just tell her you want to speak to Harry."
"Thank you, sir."
"Oh and Miss Granger have you spoken with Mr. Malfoy yet?"
Ron looked at Hermione in bewilderment. Hermione mouthed 'later' and shook her head no.
"Well, I'll be needing that answer by tomorrow morning."
"Certainly, Professor."
They exited the office and made their way through the halls until the came across the portrait. The woman was talking to the snake who seemed to be nodding in agreement.
"Er, Hello," said Hermione tentatively, "Is Harry here?"
Samara nodded her head and put the snake down who slithered out the side of the painting and disappeared.
The snake found Harry reading quietly to Severus who was sleeping already.
"Hess asssleep."
Harry looked up and saw his door guardian in a painting of a field.
"Whatss up?" Harry asked, stretching slightly in place, trying not to wake up Severus.
"Theress people outsside."
"Thankss."
The snake nodded slightly and left the painting to go back to the door. It wound its way around the woman's leg and continued up till he was back on her shoulder then told her the message.
"He'll be right out." Samara said sweetly. Ron and Hermione nodded.
Harry slowly stood up and held Severus close as he made his way to the door. Severus opened his eyes slightly and yawned. "Har-wy?" He said groggily.
"Shh. It's ok," said Harry, rubbing small circles against the two year olds back. Severus slowly drifted back to sleep against Harry's shoulder. Harry sighed in relief and continued on his way to the door. He pushed it open allowing Ron and Hermione in. Ron looked like he was about to say something, but Harry quickly shushed him and led them into the main room.
He gestured for them to take a seat then went into the bedroom and put Severus into his crib and cast a charm over it to alert him if he woke up.
Upon entering the larger room he saw Ron and Hermione in deep conversation.
"Hey guys." He said sitting down on the chair
"Hi." They responded taking in the room slowly.
"Nice place." Ron said sounding impressed.
"Yea, it has a bathroom and everything."
"Neat. Can I go see it?"
"See it or use it?" Ron blushed slightly and muttered use it. Harry pointed to the room on the right. Ron quickly made his way over to it and shut the door. One of the sensors went off alerting Harry that Severus had just woken up. Hermione looked around trying to find the location of the buzzing noise.
"I'll be right back Mione." Harry said. He walked back into the bedroom and a light flared from a corner so he could see what was going on. Severus was sitting in the crib gripping the railing. Silent tears were rolling down his cheeks. He put his hands up in the air to be picked up when Harry strode over to him. Harry obliged and picked him up.
"Hey Sev, What's the matter, huh?" asked Harry, bouncing him up in down as he paced the room. Severus just clutched Harry's robe and buried his head in the crook of Harry's neck, refusing to speak. Harry sighed and brought him back out of the bedroom to where Ron and Hermione were sitting.
"Sorry about that." Harry said taking his seat again, Severus still had a tight grip of his robe and didn't look at who was in the room with them. Hermione gave Harry a sympathetic smile.
"Hey Severus." Hermione said trying to get him to turn around.
"Mina?" He sniffled and turned his head slightly, but didn't see anyone.
"I'm over here," He turned his head the other way and saw Hermione smiling at him. He grinned weakly and loosened his grip on Harry to reach out for her. She took him immediately. Harry mouthed 'thank you' to Hermione, who winked in return and sat back down next to Ron.
Severus looked at Ron trying to remember who he was. Hermione looked at Ron, who glared angrily back at her.
"This is Ron," said Hermione in introduction. Ron continued to glare angrily at her and didn't say hi.
"Ron?" Severus asked in confirmation.
"That's right, Ron, who just happens to be acting like a complete git right now."
"Git?"
"Never you mind." Harry said. Severus looked at him funnily then yawned. "Tired?"
He nodded and blinked wearily. Hermione smiled at this tiny exchange and nudged Ron in the side.
"What?" he hissed. She rolled her eyes and stood up, handing Severus back to Harry.
"We'll see you tomorrow, Harry." Hermione said, pulling Ron up off the couch as well. "Will you be down for breakfast?"
"Yea, we'll be there."
Ron thumped Harry on the back and said, "Good luck, mate." Giving Severus a pointed look. Harry held the little boy closer and nodded. Ron sighed and shook his head in defeat then followed out of the room. Harry sighed and fell back against the chair he was sitting in. he looked at the clock on the wall and saw it was barely 8, deciding that it would be in everybody's best interest to go talk to Draco. He stood up and went back into the bedroom.
He placed Severus on the middle of his own bed then opened the trunk at the end of it. Severus crawled across the comforter and peered over the edge to see what Harry was doing.
"Whatcha doin Har-wy?"
Harry looked up and saw a pair of black eyes staring at him intently.
"I'm looking for....this." He pulled his invisibility cloak out of his trunk and shut the lid with a snap. Severus jumped backwards slightly at the noise. "Sev, come here." Harry ordered extending a hand across the bed. Severus clung to him and was lifted off the bed.
Harry threw the cloak over both of them and exited his rooms. They walked down the hallways silently looking for Draco. Harry knew that tonight was Draco's turn to patrol the hallways after curfew, because it was Hermione's the night before.
First they explored down towards the dungeons then headed up from there. Harry finally spotted him near the prefects bathroom. He placed a hand over Severus' mouth before he could call out to him.
"Shhhh," Harry hissed, putting him on the ground and holding his hand. They got closer to Draco then stopped. "On the count of three yell 'boo'. Ready?"
Severus nodded. "One, two, three."
"BOO!" They shouted in unison. Draco jumped about a foot in the air and whirled around.
"Who's there?" he called out shakily.
Harry tapped him on the back after he took the cloak off of him and Severus, who was giggling hysterically. Draco turned around and sighed deeply. "Jesus, Potter, are you trying to give me a heart attack."
"Nope, but I am trying to give you a little bit of a task."
"Really," he said contemplatively, he looked at Harry then at Severus. "What? And who's that?"
"I need you to take him at breakfast tomorrow and Dumbledore wants Hermione to ask you if you'll help her teach potions and ask him who he is yourself."
Draco raised an eyebrow, but asked anyway. "Who might you be?"
Severus hid behind Harry's robe and peaked out around Harry's leg. Harry laughed and pushed Severus towards Draco.
"Go on, he doesn't bite. Harry said. Draco rolled his eyes.
"Sev 'us."
Draco was shocked. And stared intently at his former head of house.
"Severus?" He asked Harry, who nodded. His eyes gleaming madly.
"So, do you accept the task at hand?" Harry asked quirking an eyebrow.
"Yes, to both I guess." He ran a hand through his hair letting out a long sigh. "What happened to him?"
"Potions accident this morning."
Being brave, Severus reached out and grabbed Draco's hand. Draco smiled warmly at the boy, who beamed back at him then at Harry. Harry ruffled the little boys hair affectionately.
Draco wanted to comment on this but thought better of it.
"Is he stuck like this?"
"No, he'll be back to his normal greasy self in about 3 weeks."
"Huh. You do realise that you're out after curfew don't you?"
"Yes, but when has that stopped me before?"
"Good point, I suppose I'll let you off easy this time, but you owe me."
"Ok, night, Malfoy."
"Night, Potter."
"Can you say good night to Draco?"
"G'night, Dwaco." Severus said in his high pitched voice.
"Good night." Draco smiled and walked of in the opposite direction. Harry picked Severus back up and placed the cloak over both of them and headed back to his room. Somewhere along the walk back, Severus fell asleep and started to snore lightly.
Entering his room Harry placed Severus back into his crib then entered the bathroom to brush his teeth and get ready for bed. He stared at his reflection in the mirror and was surprised to see the rings that had formed under his eyes. Harry splashed some water on his face, then put on a pair of pyjamas and walked back into the bedroom.
He set the alarm on his bedside and checked on Severus one last time. Once he knew for a fact that he was asleep, Harry muttered 'nox' and the lights went out, leaving Harry temporarily blind. He stumbled towards the glowing numbers of the clock and fell into bed. Taking of his glasses he put them on the bedside table and curled up under his quilt and fell asleep.
********* A/N: hehehehe awwwww so cute I'm killing him but that's ok everyone can forgive me for that right?
Please Review!
A/N: Woot! This was a record amount of reviews for a single chapter for me ever! YAY! I'm thanking you from the pit of my soul. ;)
Oooooooooo, this is weird I didn't even get half the things in this chapter that I wanted to so they'll end up in the next chapter. Much scariness.
So I'd like to thank:
ankhangel88: I don't know anyone who can't resist a baby Severus.
KittenBabyGirl: Thank you!
Andromeda Snape-Malfoy: If you have a suggestion for a better summary I'd like to hear it because I stink at writing them.
Ryo: I have a live journal that I've been neglecting because no one says anything to me and I'll prolly post cookies and the like up there if I get more response!
Kears: I think you misunderstood something. Snape will return to his original age after 3 weeks, just the de-aging potion only allows him to reach 5 before he goes back to being middle age. I hope that clears things up.
sb4rl: Thank you! (
Vekura: Ahhhh theres a reason for the romance genre that won't really appear until much later in the story
Erica: Continuing...continuing....
Chibidaima: Of course I'm writing more of this why wouldn't I?
Toria: hehehehe of course Harry spoke for his friends. He knows Ron too well. Hope you enjoy this next chapter.
Slytheretta: Thank you! I'm surprised at the lack of lil Sev stories myself.
Spacecatdet: Yea, there aren't enough. That's why I wrote one! And only Snape knows why he called for Harry. I blame it on to much time thinking about how much he 'hates' him.
Garner: Everyone should like a baby Sev! Hope you like this next chapter.
Sweet-single: Why thank you ^_^
*********
~* Previously *~
"That I don't know, that is what Madame Pomfrey told me, so I'm telling you. And, since I've left him in Harry's care, I expect that you two will end up helping. Am I right?"
"Yes, sir, they'll help." Harry said for them before they could form any means of protest.
*************
Ron stared at Harry in shock.
"We are?" He asked. Harry gave him a strange look, before nodding in the affirmative. "But Harry-"
"Ron," said Hermione sharply. Ron looked abashed and turned away. "Let's go."
Ron nodded and muttered 'sorry' before taking off.
Dumbledore leaned back in his chair and silently observed the exchange between friends before speaking.
"Miss Granger, may I have a word with you before you leave?"
"Yes, sir."
Hermione sat down in one of the chairs. Harry stood up, lifting Severus into his arms, then sat in the other unoccupied chair.
"As you are both now well aware, we are in dire need of a person to teach potions."
They both nodded. Harry stroked the little boys hair absentmindedly. He felt Severus shift on his lap and looked down where he was met by a pair of black eyes staring back at him curiously. Severus turned his head and saw Dumbledore and giggled, before burying his head in Harry's robes. Hermione chuckled softly at the little boys antics. He turned his head and stared at Hermione intently. He stuck his thumb in his mouth and sucked on it.
Cautiously, Severus reached out with his spare hand towards Hermione. He started to wiggle around on Harry's lap trying to get down. Harry held on tightly to the squirming two year old as he carefully lowered him to the ground. Severus smiled at Harry, then ran over to Hermione. He placed his hands on her lap and looked up at her expectantly. She smiled and lifted him onto her lap. He giggled delightedly.
Harry looked at the headmaster. Dumbledore gave Harry a quick wink. Harry smirked and slouched in his chair. Looking over at Hermione to see if she was ready he said, "You were saying, Professor?"
"Oh yes," said Dumbledore, "I'd like to offer you the position, Hermione. Of course there will be some help especially when it comes to the Slytherins."
"Who?" Hermione asked in confusion.
Dumbledore regarded her over his half-moon spectacles. "I was thinking young Mr. Malfoy, if that wouldn't be a problem."
"I don't think so."
"Good., that's very good indeed, That will be all for now Miss Granger."
"Yes, sir. See you later, Harry," said Hermione depositing Severus back into Harry's care. Harry took him and nodded bye to Hermione.
Severus waved his hand and said, "Bye-bye, Mina."
Hermione ruffled his hair, earning a grin, then left the office. Harry once again turned his attention back on the headmaster. He felt Severus shiver slightly. He started to rub Severus' arms to warm up the little bot and he caught a glimpse of bear flesh on his forearm.
"Sir?" Harry asked tentatively. "The mark."
"What about the mark?"
"It's not there anymore."
"No it wouldn't be would it. You see, Harry, Severus' wouldn't have the scar yet, for he's too young."
"Does that mean he can't be summoned?"
"No I'm afraid he can still be summoned. Harry, the Dark Lord marks his followers in more ways then just the mark."
"How?"
Dumbledore sighed and rubbed his eyelids, before locking his gaze with a portrait of a former headmaster that was staring intently at the conversation that was happening. After seeing the woman in the portrait nod at him he returned his gaze to the younger man who was sitting in front of him.
"Harry, no one truly knows all the spells charms and incantations that were performed over that mark. Even though the mark is gone doesn't mean anything. Voldemort thought it necessary to bind each of his inner circle's souls to his." Harry's eyes widened. "The only way for that bond to break would be if someone of equal power broke its connection and connected the others soul to his or hers or if one or the other dies."
"Bound?" said Harry meekly. He unintentionally hugged the little boy in his lap closer. "So," he remarked offhandedly, "No pressure, right?"
Dumbledore smiled at the sarcastic comment. "No, no pressure at all."
Harry slumped down into his chair and frowned. Severus gazed up at Harry, concern and curiosity reflecting in his eyes.
"Har-wy?" He asked, tears forming in his eyes and gliding down his cheeks. Harry gave the little boy a weak grin then wiped his face with a tissue from his pocket.
"It's alright." Harry said trying to get Severus to stop crying. "What would you like?"
Severus' eyes got big , he sniffled slightly, then stopped crying all together. "Stwicor." He stated firmly turning his puppy dog eyes onto Harry. Harry shook his head in confusion. "Stwicor!" Snape said loudly pointing at the crest on Harry's robe.
"Oh," said Harry in understanding. "You want a sticker. Well, I don't have one. Let's ask Professor Dumbledore if he has one."
Severus immediately turned his sad stare at Dumbledore. "Stwicor." He demanded. Dumbledore smiled kindly. "Pwease." He added as an afterthought.
Harry looked Dumbledore. Dumbledore smiled and conjured one and handed it to Harry, who stuck it on Severus' shirt. Severus smiled happily and took it off his shirt to examine it.
"Sir, before we drift to off topic, has Voldemort called for a meeting recently." Harry asked hoping the answer would be yes.
"Unfortunately, no, he hasn't and Severus had just come to me the day before voicing his concern about it."
"I see," Adopting a far off look, he gazed at Fawkes who was preening himself on his perch. Mulling things over in his mind, Harry could only think of one thing. "But what if he does?" asked Harry in concern, "We can't have a toddler go to him. It would be suicide and Voldemort's not a very kind person when it comes to not answering his summons. I mean he can almost kill people through the mark."
"I know these things only too well. Harry there are other reasons why I put him in your care other then the fact that he doesn't like to be around anyone else for too long. This was one of them. You know from personal experience what it's like to suffer immense pain, there will be a charm that I'm going to place over you two before you leave this office."
"Sir?" asked Harry hesitantly.
"It will transfer some of the pain that he will be feeling tenfold onto you. Harry you being older means you can withstand more pain. Being only a toddler everything that Voldemort does to him will feel ten times worse then it ever has."
Harry gulped audibly and squeezed Severus in reassurance. "Whatever it takes, sir."
They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments. Harry was thinking about what it could mean if Severus was called when he was still little and sighed softly.
"There is something else you may want to know before you leave for the night."
"What's that?"
"It's about his memories."
"His memories, sir?"
"They will be coming back to him slowly as the days go by especially towards the last three days. Now this may be a good thing or a bad thing."
"How so?"
"Well, they might come on strongly. He will be in shock for a little bit. All I'm asking is for you to be understanding. Also his memories will come back in order of receiving them and they will be mixed with the memories of these next few days with you, but when he gets back to your first year, be prepared for mood swings on his behalf."
"Yes, sir." He said. "Did you say he'll remember everything that's going to happen in the next few days?"
"Yes, I did." Dumbledore gazed intently at Harry for a few moments. "Harry, may I inquire as to why you seem to be taking all this so well?"
"Mainly because I know I'd have to do even if I said no because I'd feel incredibly guilty if I didn't and also because I happen to care for Snape." Harry bowed his head and smiled down at Severus who was still busy with his new sticker. "More then he probably knows." The last part was spoken so softly that Dumbledore wasn't certain if he had heard correctly or not. But when Harry kept his head down Dumbledore knew he had heard correctly.
"Ah," he said with a smile. Harry blushed slightly, but didn't raise his head. "I'm sure you're curious about your new room."
Harry's head shot up and he looked at Dumbledore with surprise. "Room? What room?"
"If I am not mistaken the boys who you currently share a room won't exactly appreciate having to sleep in the same room as a two year old Snape."
"No, they probably wouldn't."
"So, I took it upon myself to make sure you had a room to stay with young Severus until the potion wore off. All of your things are already there, including things to take care of him. There are clothing for every age in a bureau that will be placed in the room along with a chest full of toys for him to play with whenever he needs a distraction along with a few picture books. Dobby said he'll be more then happy to serve you whenever you need anything. Now if you need anything you know where to find me." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled merrily. "Dobby, will escort you to your new room momentarily. In the mean time, would you care for a sherbert lemon?" Harry accepted the offered treat much to the Headmaster's surprise.
"Thank you." Harry said standing up abruptly. Severus clung tightly to Harry's robes in fear. Harry winced slightly at the reaction. Dobby entered the office and bowed deeply.
"Dobby will be showing Harry Potter to his room now." Said Dobby pulling at the hem of Harry's robe.
"Alright, lead the way."
"Wait a moment." Harry stopped and turned to face Dumbledore once again. Dumbledore took out his wand and muttered a few incantations the smiled and said that he could leave now.
Dobby smiled and hastily left the office. Harry followed after him slowly trying to calm Severus down who had been terrified by the sight of the house elf. Not that Harry could blame him. Dobby wasn't exactly the most pleasant looking creature around. He looked ahead and saw Dobby staring at him nervously. Speeding up slightly he caught up with Dobby and gave him an encouraging smile.
Dobby returned the smile and continued on his way until the reached a painting of a woman with a snake coiled around her neck, smiling sweetly at him. She winked at Harry and blew him a kiss. Harry turned beat red and looked down at Dobby.
"Do you know the password by any chance?"
"No, You is supposed to give it one."
"I am, eh?"
Dobby nodded his head emphatically.
"Hmm, well then what should the password be?" he mused. Severus looked up at Harry curiously and started to suck his thumb again. Harry thoughts were plagued with thoughts of Draco's taunting earlier that day and an idea struck him. He smirked.
"I know 'Dumbledore's golden boy.'"
Dobby gave him a weird look told him that there was dinner waiting for him inside and left. Harry returned his attention to the portrait.
"So, who should I address?" Harry asked first in plain English then in parseltongue. The snake in the picture raised his head in surprise at being addressed and told Harry that he should talk to the woman whose name is Samara, but could talk to him if he wished. Harry nodded and told him thanks, before telling Samara the password.
The picture swung open revealing an arched passage way. Harry hurried along it and came out into an open room that was about half the size of the Gryffindor common room. Harry looked around in awe and saw Severus looking around the room with the same expression.
"Well, what do you think is it big enough?"
Severus nodded. Harry smiled and explored the rest of the place discovering not only did he have his own personal bedroom but also a private bath. Harry was in a proverbial heaven as he re-entered the makeshift common room. He spotted the food over on a table in the corner with a highchair.
"Hungwy, Har-wy," said Severus as his stomach rumbled.
"Ok then, let's see what they left us to eat." Severus continued to suck on his thumb.
Harry walked over to the table and saw a plate with half a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on it and a plate with some shepherd's pie and a dinner roll. Removing the tray part of the high chair, Harry carefully placed Severus into it, buckled him in, putting a bib he had found on the table on him, then proceeded to place the tray back on it and put the plate with the sandwich on it.
Severus took his thumb out of his mouth and picked at the sandwich with one hand, before picking it up and trying to eat it. Some grape jelly squirted out the end of the sandwich and got on his hands. Severus looked at his sticky hand and wiped it on his shirt.
Harry watched all this with amusement. He watched as Severus once again took a bite of the sandwich, no jelly came out this time and Harry sighed in relief. Harry returned his attention to his own meal and began to eat it. He continued to keep a close watch on Severus and chuckled as Severus tried to get some of the stickiness off his hands onto his face. Finishing his meal quickly, Harry took Severus out of the highchair and brought him into the bathroom.
Setting him down in the tub, he sighed and took off the little boy's shirt and threw it aside. Harry then took out a washcloth and ran some warm water over it and rubbed some soap in it. He then turned to Severus who was watching Harry intently. Harry approached him slowly. Taking up the sticky hand, Harry scrubbed it clean and turned his attention onto the other one. Harry rinsed the washcloth and reapplied some soap and lightly scrubbed Severus' face with small circles. Once he was cleaned up he took him out of the tub and brought him into the bedroom.
Realising he forgot to change Severus' diaper he brought him back into the bathroom and changed it rapidly trying to get it out of the way as fast as humanly possible.
When that was all over, Harry put Severus in the crib and walked over to the bureau, opened the top drawer and peered inside. He saw shirts in assorted colours and sizes. Opening the next drawer he discovered some pants and in the last drawer he found some socks underpants and a couple of pairs of pyjamas.
Severus stood up and peered over the edge of the crib, watching as Harry pulled out a pair of blue flannel pyjamas.
"Do you like these?" Harry asked.
"Yes!" He smiled and bounced up and down slightly in excitement. Harry rolled his eyes and pulled the pyjamas on over his head. He finally got the arms through then proceeded to put on the matching pants.
"There, all done," said Harry happily, picking Severus up out of the crib. He took a quick look at the clock seeing that it was only 6:45 he went back out into the main room again.
Placing Severus on the floor he went over to the book shelf and pulled off The Little Engine That Could. He pulled Severus onto his lap and opened the book. Severus leaned against Harry and listened as Harry began to read the story.
*******************
"Ron, have you seen Harry recently?" Hermione asked as they made their way back to the common room from the Great Hall. She looked down at her watch and was surprise to see that it was already 7:30.
"No," He looked at her nervously. "Where do you suppose he is?"
"I don't know, Ron. Maybe we should go see Professor Dumbledore and find out if he knows where Harry went."
"Ok. Let's go." He took her hand and they made their way to the headmasters office slowly. As they rounded the corner Ron pulled Hermione into a quick kiss. Hermione gasped in surprise, then giggled as Ron tried to lean in for another kiss and missed, kissing her on the nose instead. Letting her go, the uttered the password to the stone gargoyle and made their way up the steps. Hermione knocked on the door.
Dumbledore opened the door and let them in.
"What brings you two here?" he asked shutting the door behind them.
"Sir," Ron said, "We were wondering if you knew where Harry was. He wasn't in the great hall for dinner."
"That's because he was getting settled in." Dumbledore said.
"Settled in?" Hermione asked. "Settled in where?"
"His room for the remainder of the month. Both Harry and I were fairly sure that the boys in your dorm wouldn't appreciate having a five year old sleeping with them."
Ron smirked thinking of the reactions all the guys would have had. "No, they wouldn't."
"I'm sure you would like to know where this room is wouldn't you?"
"Yes, sir." Hermione said quickly.
"His new room is behind the picture of the woman holding the snake. Just tell her you want to speak to Harry."
"Thank you, sir."
"Oh and Miss Granger have you spoken with Mr. Malfoy yet?"
Ron looked at Hermione in bewilderment. Hermione mouthed 'later' and shook her head no.
"Well, I'll be needing that answer by tomorrow morning."
"Certainly, Professor."
They exited the office and made their way through the halls until the came across the portrait. The woman was talking to the snake who seemed to be nodding in agreement.
"Er, Hello," said Hermione tentatively, "Is Harry here?"
Samara nodded her head and put the snake down who slithered out the side of the painting and disappeared.
The snake found Harry reading quietly to Severus who was sleeping already.
"Hess asssleep."
Harry looked up and saw his door guardian in a painting of a field.
"Whatss up?" Harry asked, stretching slightly in place, trying not to wake up Severus.
"Theress people outsside."
"Thankss."
The snake nodded slightly and left the painting to go back to the door. It wound its way around the woman's leg and continued up till he was back on her shoulder then told her the message.
"He'll be right out." Samara said sweetly. Ron and Hermione nodded.
Harry slowly stood up and held Severus close as he made his way to the door. Severus opened his eyes slightly and yawned. "Har-wy?" He said groggily.
"Shh. It's ok," said Harry, rubbing small circles against the two year olds back. Severus slowly drifted back to sleep against Harry's shoulder. Harry sighed in relief and continued on his way to the door. He pushed it open allowing Ron and Hermione in. Ron looked like he was about to say something, but Harry quickly shushed him and led them into the main room.
He gestured for them to take a seat then went into the bedroom and put Severus into his crib and cast a charm over it to alert him if he woke up.
Upon entering the larger room he saw Ron and Hermione in deep conversation.
"Hey guys." He said sitting down on the chair
"Hi." They responded taking in the room slowly.
"Nice place." Ron said sounding impressed.
"Yea, it has a bathroom and everything."
"Neat. Can I go see it?"
"See it or use it?" Ron blushed slightly and muttered use it. Harry pointed to the room on the right. Ron quickly made his way over to it and shut the door. One of the sensors went off alerting Harry that Severus had just woken up. Hermione looked around trying to find the location of the buzzing noise.
"I'll be right back Mione." Harry said. He walked back into the bedroom and a light flared from a corner so he could see what was going on. Severus was sitting in the crib gripping the railing. Silent tears were rolling down his cheeks. He put his hands up in the air to be picked up when Harry strode over to him. Harry obliged and picked him up.
"Hey Sev, What's the matter, huh?" asked Harry, bouncing him up in down as he paced the room. Severus just clutched Harry's robe and buried his head in the crook of Harry's neck, refusing to speak. Harry sighed and brought him back out of the bedroom to where Ron and Hermione were sitting.
"Sorry about that." Harry said taking his seat again, Severus still had a tight grip of his robe and didn't look at who was in the room with them. Hermione gave Harry a sympathetic smile.
"Hey Severus." Hermione said trying to get him to turn around.
"Mina?" He sniffled and turned his head slightly, but didn't see anyone.
"I'm over here," He turned his head the other way and saw Hermione smiling at him. He grinned weakly and loosened his grip on Harry to reach out for her. She took him immediately. Harry mouthed 'thank you' to Hermione, who winked in return and sat back down next to Ron.
Severus looked at Ron trying to remember who he was. Hermione looked at Ron, who glared angrily back at her.
"This is Ron," said Hermione in introduction. Ron continued to glare angrily at her and didn't say hi.
"Ron?" Severus asked in confirmation.
"That's right, Ron, who just happens to be acting like a complete git right now."
"Git?"
"Never you mind." Harry said. Severus looked at him funnily then yawned. "Tired?"
He nodded and blinked wearily. Hermione smiled at this tiny exchange and nudged Ron in the side.
"What?" he hissed. She rolled her eyes and stood up, handing Severus back to Harry.
"We'll see you tomorrow, Harry." Hermione said, pulling Ron up off the couch as well. "Will you be down for breakfast?"
"Yea, we'll be there."
Ron thumped Harry on the back and said, "Good luck, mate." Giving Severus a pointed look. Harry held the little boy closer and nodded. Ron sighed and shook his head in defeat then followed out of the room. Harry sighed and fell back against the chair he was sitting in. he looked at the clock on the wall and saw it was barely 8, deciding that it would be in everybody's best interest to go talk to Draco. He stood up and went back into the bedroom.
He placed Severus on the middle of his own bed then opened the trunk at the end of it. Severus crawled across the comforter and peered over the edge to see what Harry was doing.
"Whatcha doin Har-wy?"
Harry looked up and saw a pair of black eyes staring at him intently.
"I'm looking for....this." He pulled his invisibility cloak out of his trunk and shut the lid with a snap. Severus jumped backwards slightly at the noise. "Sev, come here." Harry ordered extending a hand across the bed. Severus clung to him and was lifted off the bed.
Harry threw the cloak over both of them and exited his rooms. They walked down the hallways silently looking for Draco. Harry knew that tonight was Draco's turn to patrol the hallways after curfew, because it was Hermione's the night before.
First they explored down towards the dungeons then headed up from there. Harry finally spotted him near the prefects bathroom. He placed a hand over Severus' mouth before he could call out to him.
"Shhhh," Harry hissed, putting him on the ground and holding his hand. They got closer to Draco then stopped. "On the count of three yell 'boo'. Ready?"
Severus nodded. "One, two, three."
"BOO!" They shouted in unison. Draco jumped about a foot in the air and whirled around.
"Who's there?" he called out shakily.
Harry tapped him on the back after he took the cloak off of him and Severus, who was giggling hysterically. Draco turned around and sighed deeply. "Jesus, Potter, are you trying to give me a heart attack."
"Nope, but I am trying to give you a little bit of a task."
"Really," he said contemplatively, he looked at Harry then at Severus. "What? And who's that?"
"I need you to take him at breakfast tomorrow and Dumbledore wants Hermione to ask you if you'll help her teach potions and ask him who he is yourself."
Draco raised an eyebrow, but asked anyway. "Who might you be?"
Severus hid behind Harry's robe and peaked out around Harry's leg. Harry laughed and pushed Severus towards Draco.
"Go on, he doesn't bite. Harry said. Draco rolled his eyes.
"Sev 'us."
Draco was shocked. And stared intently at his former head of house.
"Severus?" He asked Harry, who nodded. His eyes gleaming madly.
"So, do you accept the task at hand?" Harry asked quirking an eyebrow.
"Yes, to both I guess." He ran a hand through his hair letting out a long sigh. "What happened to him?"
"Potions accident this morning."
Being brave, Severus reached out and grabbed Draco's hand. Draco smiled warmly at the boy, who beamed back at him then at Harry. Harry ruffled the little boys hair affectionately.
Draco wanted to comment on this but thought better of it.
"Is he stuck like this?"
"No, he'll be back to his normal greasy self in about 3 weeks."
"Huh. You do realise that you're out after curfew don't you?"
"Yes, but when has that stopped me before?"
"Good point, I suppose I'll let you off easy this time, but you owe me."
"Ok, night, Malfoy."
"Night, Potter."
"Can you say good night to Draco?"
"G'night, Dwaco." Severus said in his high pitched voice.
"Good night." Draco smiled and walked of in the opposite direction. Harry picked Severus back up and placed the cloak over both of them and headed back to his room. Somewhere along the walk back, Severus fell asleep and started to snore lightly.
Entering his room Harry placed Severus back into his crib then entered the bathroom to brush his teeth and get ready for bed. He stared at his reflection in the mirror and was surprised to see the rings that had formed under his eyes. Harry splashed some water on his face, then put on a pair of pyjamas and walked back into the bedroom.
He set the alarm on his bedside and checked on Severus one last time. Once he knew for a fact that he was asleep, Harry muttered 'nox' and the lights went out, leaving Harry temporarily blind. He stumbled towards the glowing numbers of the clock and fell into bed. Taking of his glasses he put them on the bedside table and curled up under his quilt and fell asleep.
********* A/N: hehehehe awwwww so cute I'm killing him but that's ok everyone can forgive me for that right?
Please Review!