Chapter Two: July 21 – September 1, 1935 (8973 Words)

Steve paced the kitchen nervously. Sarah tried in vain to hide her laugher as she watched. They were waiting for Theodore to return with Harry from Ilvermorny. It had taken Harry only two days to decide he wanted to stay in the past. Theodore had immediately registered Harry at the American wizarding school and arranged for placement testing.

Steve and Harry had spent the next three weeks going over all the textbooks Theodore had provided him. As it turned out Steve was a much better studying partner than either Hermione or Ron. Steve's help had made it fun and interesting to the point where Harry was sure he could beat even Hermione's test scores.

Theodore had arrived three days ago to accompany Harry to the school in order to sit his tests. The pair were due back any moment now and Steve couldn't wait for Harry to be back. Hearing the floo chime Steve perked up and rushed from the room. "Steve, let them get in the house before you…oh never mind you're not listening anyway." Laughing Sarah stood and put on the kettle.

Falling out of the floo Harry blushed when he realized Steve had caught him before his face met the floor. "How were the tests? What year did you get accepted into? What was-"

"Steven. Perhaps we can retire to the kitchen and have a cup of tea before you hassle Hadrian." Theodore lightly scolded while herding the boys out of the floo room.

Entering the kitchen felt like coming home to Harry, especially when Sarah came over and gave him a hug. "I want you to know that I am very proud of you. No matter what grades you got." She told him quietly before letting him go. "Let's all sit and have some tea, then Harry you can tell us about your trip." Sarah gave Steve a pointed look making sure he sat down before getting the kettle off the stove and pouring the water into the waiting tea pot.

"Mist," Theodore called after looking in the ice box. "Bring us some light snacks please." Mist popped out with a nod.

"Now Harry," Sarah sat down after pouring the tea. "What did you think of Ilvermorny?"

"It's a lot smaller than Hogwarts, more compact. And the stairs don't move, so that's kinda nice. I don't think I'll get lost easily either. Though I'm going to have to learn about Quodpod."

"I can help with that. I follow a couple teams." Steve passed Harry the platter of sandwiches Mist had brought. "What about the tests? How did they go?"

Blushing Harry found the contents of his cup suddenly fascinating, making Theodore laugh. "I believe Hadrian surprised himself with how well he did."

"Don't leave us waiting sweetie."

"I um…I passed my OWLs. I didn't realize they had given me the OWL exams and with the tournament I had taught myself higher level spells so…"

"What OWLS did you get? Am I allowed to see your scores?"

"I got all the core courses, along with CoMC, dueling, healing, no-Maj studies, Runes and Arithmancy. The last few were a surprise. I never took them in Hogwarts. Steve's a really good teacher."

"I should hope so," Theodore smiled at his grandson. "Steven may not have enough magic to cast most spells, but I have been teaching him the theory along with subjects he can do, even with his limited magic. He is very good with those subjects."

Harry nodded. "I honestly don't think I would have gotten the marks I did in those subjects if it wasn't for Steve's help." The smile Harry sent him made Steve's stomach flutter and he knees feel weak.

"Don't keep up in suspense any longer. What grades did you get sweetie?" Sarah topped up everyone's tea, unable to keep still.

"Yes, I am curious to know as well. Hadrian refused to tell me until we arrived home."

Blushing, Harry pulled two envelopes out of his pocket and handed both over to Sarah. Smiling at the boy she had come to see as her second son Sarah opened the first envelope, pleased to find Harry's marks. "Oh Harry!" Sarah stood and rushed around the table to give Harry a tight hug. "You did wonderfully! I am so proud of you. I'm going to the store to pick up some things for dinner tonight. We are going to celebrate!"

"Oh no! you don't have to-" Harry trailed off as Sarah was already gone.

"She's right Hadrian." Theodore put down the letters. "This is a reason to celebrate. When Sarah returns let her know that I will return, but I would like to freshen up and unpack first. Congratulations Hadrian, you have done a wonderful job." Giving the boys' shoulders a squeeze Theodore left the kitchen for the floo room."

Steve looked over the report left laying on the table. "Wow Harry. You did well. No wonder Ma and Granddad are so excited." And Harry really had done well.

Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardy

Ordinary Wizarding Level Results

Hadrian Potter

July 21, 1935

Transfiguration – O

Charms – O

Herbology – O

Potions – O

History – EE

Astronomy – EE

Defense Against the Dark Arts – O

Care of Magical Creatures – EE

Runes – O

Arithmancy – EE

No-Maj Studies – EE

Magical Theory – EE

Dueling – O

Healing – EE

"I surprised myself honestly. There are classes that I've never taken before. The only mark I'm not surprised with is DADA."

"If you want, I can help you study before you leave, and we could see if we can find a set of two-way journals. That way if you need help while in school I can help then as well."

Harry beamed. It was nice having someone offer help instead of being told that he needed it all the time. "That would be really nice Steve. Thanks. We could use the journals instead of waiting on letters all the time as well, that will be nice." There was a moment of silence where the two boys just looked at each other. "So, umm," Harry finally looked away sure he was blushing. "I think I'm going to go get changed." Standing, Harry turned to leave the kitchen, but was stopped when Steve grabbed his arm.

"Go out with me?" Steve blurted out when Harry looked back at him.

"What?" Harry was sure he hadn't heard Steve right. There was no way.

"Will you go out with me? On a date? I know we haven't known each other long an honestly I'm not sure you even like blokes like that, but I really like you and would like to get to know you better in a more coupley way-"

"YES! Yes, Steve. I would love to go out with you." Harry was sure his face was going to combust with how hot it felt, which only got worse when Steve shifted his hand from holding Harry's wrist to holding his hand.

"Have lunch with me tomorrow in the Way. That way we can hold hands in public."

"Yeah, I'd like that."

Smiling Steve leaned forward and kissed Harry on the cheek. "I'll let you go get changed now. I just didn't want to ask you with Ma and Granddad around."

Harry was sure he had a stupid goofy grin on his face as he made his way to the room he was still sharing with Steve. I wonder what's going to happen now. I don't think Ma will let us sleep in the same room when she's told we're dating. But then there's no other option other than one of us sleeping in the living room. Returning to the kitchen Harry wasn't really surprised that only Steve was there. Harry felt his face heat up again when Steve looked up and smiled at him.

Loving how Harry looked with the blush Steve passed the younger boy his teacup, which he had just topped up, making sure their hands touched. "So, I was thinking," Steve decided to ignore Harry's blush, hoping Harry would think it was normal. "We could have lunch at the café you said looked good last time. Then get some ice cream while we wander the Way. We can even try to find those journals."

"That sounds really good. I can't wait!"

"Can't wait for what sweetie?" Sarah and Theodore entered the kitchen laden with bags.

Harry looked back at Steve in a minor panic. He wasn't sure if Steve wanted his family to know about them or not. Reaching over Steve gave Harry's hand a squeeze. "Harry agreed to go out with me. We are going on a lunch date tomorrow."

"About bloody time!" Theodore put his bags down on the table ignoring Sarah's outraged cry of "Daddy!"

"You two have been pining after one another since Hadrian woke up. I was giving them until the end of the month before I stepped in."

"Oh Merlin." Steve felt like banging his head on the table. "Were we really that obvious?"

Laughing Sarah put her hands-on Steve's shoulders and kissed his head. "From day one honey." Walking back to the stove she couldn't resist taunting them further. "I'm fairly sure that James knows something is going on between you two. I would suggest you tell him sooner rather than later."

Steve paled. "I'm not sure about that Ma." Bucky was his best friend, but he was still a No-Maj.

Sarah shrugged. "Up to you honey. Now you can help me cook or you can get out of my kitchen."

Steve immediately jumped up and headed for the door but paused when he noticed Harry wasn't with him. Harry, meanwhile, had stood and taken a few tentative steps towards the stove. "Um, Sarah, I was wondering if you could teach me? I know how to cook, but that was using different technology…and I've always love cooking."

Sarah held out her hand out to him smiling. "Of course, sweetie. I would love to teach you. My Stevie's never shown an interest in cooking and I would love to have someone to pass down the family recipes to." Taking her hand Harry smiled as she pulled him into a one armed hug. "This book is a collection of my own recipes along with some from my bearer's family and my grandmother's family. Maybe you'll be able to add your own recipes one day. Now the most important part of cooking is the fire-"

Steve watched them with a smile, glad that Harry was getting the much-needed attention. And it got his Ma off his back, so win-win really. "Steven," Theodore said softly not wanting to disturb the pair in the kitchen. "Come sit with me. We need to speak." Turning he led the way to the living room couch.

The pair sat in silence for a while, Steve trying hard not to fidget. "Granddad, is everything alright?"

"Yes, everything is fine. Stonehammer just reminded me of something I needed to speak to both you and Hadrian about. I thought it might be easier to do so separately. I know you just began dating, and no I'm not going to criticize you for doing this instead of a proper courtship. I believe this new-fangled dating is a good thing. When you decide to become intimate, especially with another magical, you need to remember to use certain spells."

"Granddad! I don't think-"

"I don't care Steven. For my own peace of mind, I need to make sure you know. You need to know the contraceptive spell or use muggle condoms. You have enough magic that you could become pregnant or impregnate your partner. If you were to become pregnant, I'm not sure you would be able to carry to term or even survive. Later, in life, when you are older and married, and you and your partner decide to have children, I highly suggest your partner be the one to carry the children. Do you understand?"

"Yes Granddad. I'll be careful."

"Good. I will speak to Hadrian about this later. I am certain he has no idea males can even become pregnant. I will also have to teach him the spells needed. Now, on to less serious topics. What are your plans for the rest of the summer?"

In the kitchen Harry was in heaven. Sarah had shown him how to light the stove and keep it going throughout the day. She had shown him the different pots and pans and taught him their uses, along with a promise to show him how to properly clean them. He was taught how to feel the heat from the stove to tell the different temperatures and how to judge doneness by look or a simple touch. Harry had always enjoyed cooking but having a mum beside him showing him new techniques made him fall in love with it all over again. It was a very proud Harry that brought dinner to the table that night.

The next week followed the same routine. Harry would help Sarah in the kitchen whenever he could, going so far as to wake up early to help with breakfast when Sarah was on the early shift. The rest of the day was split between Steve helping Harry study and the pair meeting up with Bucky to wander the streets of New York.

Their first date was quickly followed by a second, third, and now barely a week and a half after the first they were on their sixth. Steve had told Harry he wanted to go on as many dates as possible before Harry left in September, an idea that Harry had no issues with.

They had just returned from the Way and were indulging in a snogging session in their room. Hands were roaming, shirts had come undone and then suddenly Steve couldn't breathe. Gasping, he grabbed Harry's shirt with one hand while the other grabbed at his chest. "Steve?" Harry grabbed onto his boyfriend's arm as he felt the panic build. "Steve? Mum! Oh Merlin…MUM!"

Hearing the scream, Sarah dropped the pan she had been using and ran for the boys' room. A deathly calm washed over her when she realized what was happening. Gently she separated the boys and sat Steve down. "Harry," Sarah never took her eyes off Steve as she spoke quietly to Harry. "I need you to go into the bathroom, in the cabinet are a package of asthma cigarettes, matches and a green bottle of pills. Bring them and a glass of water. Quick now."

Grateful to have a mission Harry took off running. He didn't question why Sarah needed smokes nor did he think about what he had called Sarah in his panic. All he focussed on was getting the medicine to Steve as quickly as possible. Handing Sarah, the items Harry could feel his panic rising as he watched Steve struggle to breath.

"Thank you, Harry. Now I need you to floo my dad and tell him Steve is having another attack. Then wait in the floo room for him alright?" Sarah focused on lighting a cigarette and trying to get Steve to take a drag. She had to get his breathing under control before she could give him the heart medicine. "It's alright baby. Don't worry about anything else, just focus on your breathing for me. Harry's gone to get Granddad. Mama's got you."

In the floo room Harry was trying, and failing, to control his panic. Sure, he had been told Steve had asthma along with other health issues, but he'd never actually seen an asthma attack before. It scared him. He was so focused on trying to calm himself he never noticed Theodore arrive and thus he flinched when the older man touched him.

"Harry, are you alright?" Theodore asked with concern. Harry was pale, wide-eyed and trembling.

"Y-yeah. I'm…I'm fine. S-Steve's not though. He needs you."

Gently placing his hand between the boy's shoulders Theodore steered Harry out of the floo room. "Why don't you head into the kitchen and put the kettle on. I know Steve enjoys a cup of hot water with honey after an attack and we can all use a cuppa when he's better."

Nodding absently Harry headed into the kitchen, glad for the task. He always coped better when he had a task. Harry took his time setting the tinder, starting the fire, adding the coal, rinsing and filling the kettle, then pulling down the tea pot and cups one by one. By the time the tea was done, and he had poured himself a cup, Sarah had joined him.

Taking one look at the pale and trembling boy Sarah rushed over to envelope him in a hug. "Oh sweetie." Feeling the soft comfort of a mother's embrace for the first time while dealing with a crisis broke something in Harry and he broke down crying. "Oh baby. I know. I know." Sarah cooed while running her fingers through his hair. "It's scary when Steve suffers an attack. He's alright now. He'll be on bed rest for a while though. So, I expect you to keep him company. Tomorrow, after you've gotten some sleep, I'll show you how to help Steve through an attack."

Harry nodded, already feeling better. "Are they always this bad?"

"Oh, Sweetie." Sarah held him tighter. "While this one was bad, they can get worse. With all of Steven's health problems a small asthma attack can leave him bedridden for months."

Harry pulled away sure he hadn't heard correctly. "What? Surely a simple asthma attack can't be that bad?"

"What has Steve told you about his health problems?"

"I know about the asthma and he's told me about being colour blind and not being able to hear properly out of his left ear, but that's it."

"That sounds like Steve. Doesn't want to be coddled or be thought less of. I know he is bullied at school about his health even if he's never told me."

"I would never think less of him for it! I just need to know what to watch out for, so I don't make things worse."

"I know that sweetie and I know Steve knows it as well. He just doesn't like burdening people with the knowledge. I can tell by the look on your face that you're not going anywhere until I tell you his health problems are." Sarah sighed in a found manner as she refilled her cup. "To start with he has scoliosis, it's just a slight bend in his spine, nothing really to concern yourself with. He gets back pain if he stands or sits for long periods of time, nothing a good back rub won't fix. He has astigmatism, which means his vision is slightly blurry. He probably should have spectacles, but he refuses and to be honest I'm a little glad. I can't afford new spectacles every time he gets into a fight."

Harry had to laugh as he agreed with Sarah. In the month he had been in the past, Steve had gotten into a fight on a weekly basis. "The more serious issues Steve has, have to do with his heart. He has arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, where his heart beats too fast and high blood pressure. Then there is his angina, which causes pain in his chest because his muscles are not getting enough blood. There is also his anaemia, thankfully he can take potions for that along with some to help his heart. If not for the potions he would be forced to eat pounds of raw liver every day."

"Are there no magical cures for him yet?" Harry asked feeling very confused. He had never heard of any magical having heart disease and he was sure Hermione had mentioned cures during one of her pointless (to him anyway) research sessions.

"There are, but to go through the treatment he has to go to St Mungo's. That unfortunately involves a full diagnostic charm being cast which would reveal that his father is a No-Maj, which is highly illegal. If MACUSA found out both Steven and I would be killed. To be with a No-Maj is an immediate death sentence for the couple and any children produced from that union, regardless of age. Thankfully Da is a healer, so he can help, but the cures require multiple healers and controlled potions. But I can honestly say Steve does much better with his limited magic and the few potions Da can make for him. Now," Sarah stood an began fiddling with new cups. "Steve should be doing better, and he enjoys a cup of hot water and honey. You should bring it to him. Then I suggest the two of you get some sleep. Tomorrow, I will show you how to use Steve's medicine and how to help him. For now, sleep."

Taking the two cups Harry hesitated for a moment before giving Sarah a kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight Mum." Harry turned and left the kitchen quickly, so he never saw the look of surprise and love on Sarah's face, nor did he hear the soft "sweet dreams my son."

In their room Harry stood frozen in the doorway watching Theodore cast spells upon Steve. Logically Harry knew that Steve wasn't much bigger than he was, but his personality, attitude and confidence made him seem so much larger. So, to see Steve lying in bed pale, shaky and sweaty was terrifying. Steve gave Harry a small shaky smile and held out a hand. "Hey, babe. I'm sorry if I scared you."

"You are to stay in bed for the next couple of weeks young man. I will come by tomorrow to check on you." Theodore patted Steve's shoulder then left the room with a smile for Harry.

"You utter pillock!" Harry finally released some of his anger, now that he was sure Steve was going to be alright. "You should have told me about this, so I didn't freak out. Now drink your hot honey so we can get to sleep." Harry gently passed over one of the cups then settled in the bed next to Steve. The pair drank their hot honey in silence before cuddling up under the comforter to sleep.

The next morning Harry was up early. He already had the stove lit, kettle boiled and had started on breakfast when Sarah entered the kitchen. "You're up bright and early sweetie. Did you sleep alright?" she gave Harry a kiss on the head as she poured herself a cup of tea.

"Morning. I did sleep surprising well last night. What about you?"

"I was alright. I never sleep the best after one of Steve's attacks. I suppose it was better for you sleeping next to him."

"Yeah, it was nice having him right next to me. Is there anything Steve should be eating or not after an attack?"

Sarah smiled at her younger son. She was glad he would always be there for Steve. "Just keep his food light for the next couple of days. And of course, we need to make sure he takes all his potions on time. Steve is a horrible patient and hates being cooped up. I'm am going to need your help in keeping him in bed until Da tells him otherwise. We will have to get James to help us with Steve as well. That boy has gotten quite good at keeping Steve mostly in line." Sarah then turned serious and pointed a finger at Harry. "You need to keep his heart rate down while he is stuck in bed young man."

Harry blushed and lowered his head. "I'm sorry mum. I didn't realize-"

"I know sweetie. I was just teasing you. For future refence you shouldn't worry about doing that again with Steve. You might need to take a few quick breaks during so he can catch his breath-"

"MUM!"

"What? It's true. You also need to be cautious when you two decide to have sex."

"Oh Merlin." Harry hid his face in his hands. "I'm going to see how Steve is doing." Harry left the kitchen to the sounds of Sarah laughing. By the time he got back to their room his face was beet red.

"Harry," Steve looked at his boyfriend in concern. "Are you alright? You're really red."

"Yeah," Harry settled down on the bed next to Steve. "Are Mums always embarrassing?"

Steve laughed. "Yeah they are. Do I want to know…Okay. How are you doing otherwise?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that?" Harry was forced to smile. "I'm doing fine, embarrassing mothers aside."

Steve leaned onto Harry's shoulder. "I'm a little tired, but I always am." They laid together in silence for a few minutes, until Steve realized something important. "Oh Merlin!" Steve tried to sit up quickly, but Harry quickly grabbed him. "I completely ruined your birthday!"

"What! My birthday?" Harry looked at Steve confused. "Was that yesterday?"

"You didn't remember it was your birthday?"

"No. honestly I haven't really celebrated my birthday before. It's only been in the last four years that I've had anyone send me things; and even then, it's mostly food."

Sighing, Steve adjusted his hold on Harry. "I'm sorry."

"Hey," Harry shifted to look at Steve again. "You have nothing to be sorry for. In the little over a month I've been here I've never been happier. You and your family have done more for me than anyone else in my life. The only thing you have to be sorry for is not telling me about your heart problems you pillock! I thought you were dying."

"Your right. I am sorry I never told you. I'll make it up to you once I'm allowed out, promise." The suggestive look in Steve's eyes along with the hand on his thigh let Harry know exactly what Steve was thinking. Blushing, Harry licked his lips and nodded. They hadn't done much, but what they had done had been amazing.

"I wouldn't be making too many promises if I were you honey." Sarah laughed at the look on her boys' faces as she entered carrying breakfast trays. "You are not going anywhere anytime soon Steven. And the both of you need to be more cautious in the future." Gently she set the tray down on the bed, then sat on the end by Harry.

"Ma, we know already." Steve whined. His granddad had already lectured him on being careful, he didn't need to hear it a second time.

Smiling, Sarah held her hands up in surrender. "Harry, I need to apologize to you." Sarah picked her teacup up off the tray, ignoring Harry's confused look. "We got so caught up in Steve's attack last night I completely forgot about your birthday. I am sorry about that." She quickly held up a hand stopping Harry before he could say anything. "No, it is not alright. A mother should never put one child before the other. At the very least I should have wished you a happy birthday. As I am working tonight, we shall celebrate over lunch. After you are done breakfast Harry, you should run over and let James know about Steve's attack and invite him for your birthday lunch. How does that sound?"

Harry was stunned. He could never imagine Mrs. Weasley apologizing like that. She was always putting one kid before the others. Hell, she couldn't even tell the twins apart. He wasn't quite sure what to say, so Harry just nodded.

Getting up Sarah gave both boys a kiss. "Mist will be by soon with your potions honey and Da will be by around dinner to check you over. I will be in the kitchen if you need anything."

Watching the shock and confusion at war on Harry's face, Steve decided to let him be and tucked into his breakfast. He would do something if Harry didn't start eating soon. The smell of bacon brought Harry out of his head rather quickly and he joined Steve in demolishing their meal.

Leaning over to give Steve a kiss Harry then picked up the tray and headed for the kitchen. "I'm going to head over to Bucky's now. Steve's still in bed pouting and I heard Mist pop in as I left."

"Alright sweetie. Try not to take too long, Steve gets antsy when he's stuck in bed alone."

Harry gave Sarah a peck on the cheek. "Don't worry mum. I won't leave him alone for long." Taking off Harry rushed over to Bucky's and dragged the other boy back and into Steve's room without an explanation.

"Ok, we're here now. Harry what is going – oh no Stevie. Not again. What were you doing this time?" Bucky glared at his friend laying in the bed. Beside him Harry blushed and ducked his head while Steve stared at him lechery. Now, no one would (or could) ever say that James Barnes was unobservant, it was quite the opposite (and would do him very well in years to come as a sniper.) So, he was quick to notice his friends' reactions and connect the dots. "Holy shit you two! I hope you are being careful."

"Oh, jeeze Buck, not you too. We know to be careful with my heart okay?"

"No, you stupid punk! I get that you need to watch out for that. I'm talking about you getting shot! You remember what happened to Mr. Jameson?"

Steve paled and looked like he might get sick. "Oh yeah."

"Oh yeah. Stupid punk."

"Wait," Harry looked between the other two. "What happened?"

Bucky sat down on the end of the bed and motioned for Harry to sit as well then looked pointily at Steve to start the story. "Mr. Jameson lived on the floor below us. He was your typical bachelor. Always helping around the neighbourhood. He'd help the older people with their groceries or the garbage. Even helped Ma out a few times. He was a really nice guy." Steve seemed unable to continue so Bucky took up the story.

"A few weeks before you arrived Mr. Jameson was found taking a cock up his ass. The guy he was with took off, though he was caught later and thrown in jail. Mr. Jameson wasn't so lucky."

Harry shifted closer to Steve not liking the story but needing to hear it. "What happened to him?" Steve wrapped his arms around Harry and held him close while Bucky continued.

"The neighbourhood men dragged him out into the street yelling about him being a disgusting fag and how he would corrupt the children. They beat him to a bloody pulp then dumped him in the alley to die. The cops showed up at one point, but once they found out Mr. Jameson was a fag they left. So, you two really need to be careful. Look, I don't care that you like blokes so long as you're happy. I just don't want to see it." The three boys laughed and the mood in the room relaxed. They spent the next few hours talking, trying to keep Steve's mind off being stuck in bed and Harry's away from what happened to Mr. Jameson.

When Sarah came to call them for lunch, she found Harry laying on the floor laughing, James nearly falling off the bed and Steve trying hard to keep calm. Shaking her head in exasperation, she decided not to ask. "James are you joining us for Harry's birthday lunch?"

Bucky shot a still giggling Harry a glare. "Yes Ma'am. And if it's alright afterwards I'll run home and grab Harry's present as he didn't bother to explain anything when he dragged me over."

"Hadrian, you were supposed to talk to James, not just drag him over here. It's called manners young man. You are lucky that it's your birthday lunch and Steve is just starting to recover, or you would be in trouble. Now, James, you and Harry help Steve into the kitchen. He is not allowed to exert himself and I am pushing it by letting you out of bed Steven, so I expect you all to be on your best behaviour. Understand?"

"Yes Ma'am." The three boys answered together. Even Harry, who had only been there for a short time knew that you didn't mess with Sarah Rogers when she used that voice. Together Harry and Bucky helped Steve up off the bed and worked together to carry Steve into the kitchen and settle him in a chair. When they were sure their friend was alright and properly settled the pair joined Steve at the table.

Sarah had gone all out once again. The food was delicious, and it didn't take long for the three boys to demolish lunch and most of the cake that followed. After taking Steve back to bed Bucky raced home to grab Harry's present. When he got back and had settled on the bed with Harry and Steve, Buck gave Harry his present along with a punch to the arm.

"Mum," Harry whined when Sarah joined them. "Bucky punched me."

"Well, unfortunately I didn't see anything, and perhaps if you explained to people what was happening instead of dragging them around, I'm sure you wouldn't get punched." While normally Sarah would discourage such whining, it was gratifying to see Harry opening up and acting his age.

All three were extremely happy with the changes in Harry, he truly was coming into himself. Sarah was sure that the freedom to be himself along with finally having a loving family was breaking down the walls around Harry's heart.

Carefully Harry unwrapped Bucky's gift. It didn't matter to him that it was badly wrapped in newspaper, it was a gift from someone he would lovingly call brother. "Buck," Harry was shocked. He was now holding Bucky's pocket-knife. A knife that meant everything to Bucky. "I can't accept this. It's your knife." Harry held out the knife for his brother to take back.

"Don't even think about it Brat." Bucky reached over and closed Harry's hand around the knife. "My Da gave me one for an early birthday present, so I wanted you to have this one."

Harry smiled as he tightened his grip on the knife. "Thanks. But this doesn't make you any less of a Prat."

Shaking her head at the boy's antics Sarah handed Harry a large lumpy package. "This is from Steve."

Like before, Harry carefully unwrapped his gift. "Oh, Steve. Your jacket. I know you love this one."

Steve took the jacket from Harry and held it out for the other boy to try on. "I know, but you saw the one granddad bought me and I've seen you eyeing this one. So just shut it and put it on already Imp." Harry was too worried about Steve's health to fight him and was soon sitting beside his boyfriend in his new, old coat.

"Harry." Sarah knelt in front of her younger son with a small square box in her hand. "You are going to listen very carefully, and not argue with me. Understand?" She waited until Harry nodded before continuing. "It is tradition in the Grant family to pass on special family items on certain birthdays. Now, generally a child's fifteenth is not one of those birthdays, however, their first is. This is your first birthday as part of this family. I consider you my son and Da has said that you are his second grandson. James thinks of you as a brother and I have feeling that you and Steve will be together for a long time. Am I correct in saying that these feelings are returned as well?"

Harry just nodded his head; afraid he would lose composer if he spoke. "Good. This belonged to my mother's family" Sarah passed the small box over to Harry. Inside was a beautiful silver pocket watch. The front had a delicate Celtic knot design around the edges but was otherwise blank. The back, however, had a coat of arms engraved on it. "Before you leave for school Da is going to have our picture taken and we will get the front engraved as well. The coat of arms on the back is the Prince crest, my mother's family."

Harry couldn't have stopped himself if he wanted to. He launched himself at Sarah, wrapping her in a tight hug. "Thank you Mummy," he whispered. Sarah just held him until Harry gently pulled away.

"Happy birthday Baby." Leaning forward Sarah kissed his forehead then stood. "I'm off to work. You boys take it easy. Love you."

The month of August passed in a flash. The three boys spent the first two weeks in Steve's room with either Harry or Bucky running errands. Theodore came by often to check up on Steve and one afternoon stole Harry away for school shopping. Harry was both shocked and pleased to note that his school list called for notebooks and pencils rather than parchment and quills.

While getting his notebooks Harry noticed a display of leather-bound two-way journals, some of which that could be embossed with an image. Grabbing two Harry put them with the pile of non-school books Theodore was letting him pay for himself. Deciding he had enough books for now Harry headed over to the till. "What would you like put on the journal covers?" the wizard behind the counter asked.

Thinking, Harry put his hand in his pocket. Feeling the pocket watch he smiled and pulled the watch out showing the design to the wizard. He couldn't help but smile as he remembered when the image had appeared just a few days ago.

Flashback

Harry and Steve had been cuddling in their room, while waiting for Theodore to come by. Eventually the cuddling lead to some light kissing and petting when Harry felt his pocket heat up. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out the watch and together they watched it in fascination.

From the top of the watch a small raptor flew down, only to be tackled by a dog from the side. The bird flew up in agitation and hovered until the dog settled and lay down. When the dog was content and quiet the raptor flew down and landed on the dog's back and seemed to settle there. Steve was the first to notice that the dog had a masquerade mask on it's flank while the bird had a star on its chest.

They were quick to decide that the dog was a golden retriever, but they had no clue about the bird. Together they spent a few hours looking over the image for clues. When Steve pointed out the mask and star Harry noticed that the mask had two bars on one side while the star had an oak leaf emerging from the base growing towards the center.

When Theodore came by later that night to check on Steve, Harry showed him the watch and asked about the image. Smiling Theodore took the watch in his hand. "My husband's watch is very special. When its owner makes a bond with the one, they are meant to be with, their spirit animals appear. The animals are usually a person's animagus or the form their patronus takes. I would assume the golden retriever represents Steven, while the Merlin would be Hadrian."

Steve fell into his pillows laughing. Harry was stunned. "Merlin! What?"

Theodore chuckled and handed Harry the watch. "Merlin is a type of hawk. Also known as a pigeon hawk. I believe that if you were to become an animagus you would become a Merlin."

"What about the star and the mask?" Steve asked when he was able to breath. Harry glared at his boyfriend, not liking that Steve was being so laid back about his breathing problems so soon after an attack. Understanding Harry' s look, Theodore put his hand on the boy's shoulder to calm him.

"I am at a loss regarding the symbols. Though the two bars in the mask looks similar to a Captain's Insignia, and the oak leaves are worn by Majors. Perhaps you will both join the military and become a Captain and Major someday. I am sure you will figure it out eventually."

End Flashback

"Do you have everything Hadrian?" Theodore aske coming up from the other side of the counter.

"Yes granddad." Harry took the bag from the clerk after giving him his thanks. "What do you think?" Harry asked as they left the store. He had pulled one of the journals out of the bag, eager to show off his idea. "He said the animals would move between the books, usually when a message has been sent."

"This is very well-done charm work. I know Steven will like it. Did you want an owl as well?"

Harry immediately thought of his poor Hedwig. I hope she is okay and knows I didn't willingly leave her behind. "Um…does the school have owls for the students to use?"

"Yes, they do. You do not have to get an animal if you do not wish to."

"Yeah…um, maybe I'll wait."

"Very well. We have acquired everything on your list, is there anywhere else you would like to go before we return home?"

"Is there anywhere to get a pocketknife for Bucky?"

Theodore thought for a moment. "Yes, I believe Samson's sells muggle knives. Let us go and check."

Later that afternoon Theodore dropped Harry off at home. Entering their room, he found Steve and Bucky on the bed, almost exactly where he had left them that morning. From the door he tossed a small package at Bucky's head. "There. You, stupid prat." Harry smiled as he settled on the bed next to Steve, watching Bucky unwrap the gift.

"What the hell Brat. I told you my Da already got me one."

"Cut the crap Buck. I ran into your sisters at the grocers the other day. Mackenzie told me an interesting story when I asked about your birthday. Do you know what she told me?" Both Bucky and Steve were getting nervous. Harry didn't know it yet, but he was doing a very good impression of an angry Sarah Rogers.

"No, can't say that I do. After all Mackenzie is know for telling stories."

"Oh. So, your birthday isn't in March? That's weird. When I asked Mum, she said it was. Unless mum was lying too." Harry's glare softened until he just looked sad. "You didn't have to lie about the knife Buck."

"Yeah right Brat. If I had just given it to you, you would have refused or gave it to one of my sisters and told them I left it behind."

Harry sighed, knowing his friend was right. "Fine. I'll give you this one, but please don't do it again. I've been lied to too many times. You're only allowed to lie if telling would break the law, hurt you or if it's a surprise. Okay?"

"As long as you two do the same."

"Deal."

After an hour of quietly playing cards a thought came to Bucky. "Why are you going to some fancy boarding school Harry? Can't you just go to the same school as me and Stevie?"

"Its the sister school to the one I went to in England. My parents paid for my full tuition when I was born. It's a family tradition to go there. My dad's family have been going for generations. When granddad contacted them about the change in guardianship, they transferred my tuition over. As much as I would love to stay here it seems a bit of a waste to throw away my parents' money and tradition like that. Besides, I'll be home for Christmas and maybe Easter, depending on the workload."

"You'll write us?"

"Of course! I'll send your letters in the same envelope as mum's and Steve's. I'm sure mum won't mind adding your letters to their packages."

Bucky stood and pulled Harry up into a hug. "I'll miss you Brat. You keep yourself out of trouble."

"I'm not the one who goes looking for trouble. And I'll miss you too you Prat."

August thirty-first came all too soon. Harry had gone to say good-bye to Bucky and his family before dinner, though he and Bucky had agreed never to mention the touchy-feely good-bye the week before. When he returned home, he found that Sarah had, once again cooked up a feast.

"You write as soon as you can, and at least once a week you understand."

"Yes Ma'am."

"You do your best but remember that that I will be proud of you no matter what." Sarah pulled her youngest son close and hugged him tight. "I love you."

Harry hugged her tight. "I love you too mum."

After dinner Steve pulled Harry into their room. They quickly changed into their sleep pants and cuddled up on the bed. The cuddling quickly turned into kissing, which led to touching that led to Steve having his hand down Harry's pants.

Wanting Steve to feel just as good Harry reached for the ties on Steve's pants, only to have his hand batted away. "Don't worry about me. Tonight, is about you. Just feel. I want you to have something to remember me by when you are alone in you bed in the dorms." Steve kept his touches light but firm wanting to make it last for as long as possible, wanting the memory for himself as well. Eventually Harry came crying out Steve's name.

Steve waited until Harry had calmed a little before heading to the bathroom to get a wet cloth. Climbing back into the bed he used the cloth to clean Harry and himself of cum. Kissing Harry's forehead Steve pulled him close and held him as tight as he dared. They slept soundly, wrapped in each other's arms.

Harry woke the next morning to Steve's alarm clock. Groaning he snuggled into Steve, pulling the blankets up higher. Unfortunately, Sarah was not so easily ignored. Banging on the door she walked right in and opened the blinds. "Time to get up boys. You both have school today. Breakfast will be ready in five minutes. If you are not in the kitchen by then I am coming back with a bucket of water." Turning Sarah left the room, closing the door behind her.

Steve pulled Harry into a deep kiss before stretching and getting up. "What time are you leaving?" Harry asked as he too got out of bed and started dressing, trying not to stare too much as Steve did the same.

"Bucky said he would be here for seven fifteen. So…" Steve reached over to grab Harry's pocket watch from the nightstand. "Just a little over half an hour. Starfeather and Captain both seem really excited today." He couldn't help but smile as he handed Harry the watch. Looking at the animals Harry had to laugh. It looked like they were playing tag, and he always had to smile when he thought of Steve naming them. Harry had told Steve about his dad and Sirius becoming animagi to be with Mooney and their animal names. So, Steve decided that if those were their likely animagus forms then they needed names as well.

"Come on," Steve grabbed Harry's hand and gently pulled the other boy out of the room. "Ma will throw a fit if we don't move."

"Good. You two did manage to find your way out of the covers." Sarah slightly scolded her sons.

"Sorry mum. It's the first time that I haven't been excited to leave for school."

"Oh sweetie. I'm sorry for getting you up this early. I just wanted as much time with you before you leave me for four months."

"So, does that mean I get to go back to bed?" Steve asked with a cheeky smile.

"No Steven. You need to get back on schedule for school." Harry stuck his tongue out at Steve from behind Sarah's back. "Harry, we do not stick our tongues out at one another. Now all three of you sit and eat some breakfast." Neither Harry nor Steve had noticed Bucky walking into the kitchen. "Good morning James. I'm glad one of you is on time this morning."

"Morning Mrs. Rogers. I had to get up extra early this morning to help Ma with the girls." Harry and Steve rolled their eyes when Bucky flashed his charming smile. For some reason the adults always fell for it, despite knowing what Bucky is really like. When he was sure Sarah's back was completely turned and she wouldn't see him Harry gave Buck the two-finger salute.

Reaching over to steal Harry's last piece of bacon Bucky stood. "Come on Stevie. We better get going if we don't want to be late. Have fun at your fancy school Brat, and don't you dare forget to write."

"I wont Prat. I'll see you at Christmas." Bucky pulled Harry into a quick hug then left the kitchen not wanting to see him and Steve say their good-byes. He noticed with a grin that Sarah had also made herself scarce.

In the kitchen Steve had Harry wrapped up in a tight hug, not wanting to let go. "I know you have to go, but I still don't like it."

"I know. I feel the same."

"Steve! Come on punk move it or we'll be late!" Bucky yelled from the other side of the door. Both Steve and Harry laughed.

Steve leaned down and gave Harry a quick but intense kiss. "Love you." Turning Steve grabbed his pack and headed out the front door, leaving a stunned Harry, grinning like a mad man.

"Harry, sweetie? Are you alright?" Sarah asked concerned when she came back in a couple of minutes later to find Harry hadn't moved. Wrapping an arm around her son's shoulders Sarah pulled the boy close.

"He-he said he loved me. Then he left."

Sarah laughed. "If you want, I'll give him a smack for you when I get home tonight."

"That sounds like a wonderful idea mum."

Smiling Sarah gently pulled Harry towards the living room. "I still have sometime before I have to leave. Let's go sit on the couch and talk." The pair cuddled on the small couch while Sarah told stories of Steve's childhood and a few stories from her own. All too soon Theodore arrived to take Harry to the station.

"Da! What time is it?" Sarah looked up in panic when Theodore walked in.

"Don't worry dove I came early to keep Hadrian company after you've gone to work, which I believe you need to be on your way if you don't want to be late."

Getting up quickly Sarah rushed to gather her things, which were thankfully already packed, a few moments later she returned and pulled Harry into a tight hug. "Sweetie you have a good term and write to me as soon as you get settled tonight. I love you so much."

"Love you too mum. I'll write as soon as I can promise."

"Okay," Sarah pulled away only to reach back to give Harry a kiss. "I'm off."

Theodore waited until he heard the front door close and lock before allowing himself a chuckle. "It has been a long time since I've seen Sarah this flustered. Come, let us gather your things then go to the Way for a spot of tea."

Harry went to retrieve his trunk and allowed Theodore to shrink it for him before they both floo'd to the Way. Wrapping an arm around the boy's shoulders Theodore directed him to a small café, where they settled over the promised tea. Looking at his watch Harry had to laugh.

"What is so funny Hadrian?"

"The last three years I was staying with the Weasley's for the last few weeks of holidays and it was always a mad rush to get to the platform on time. I understand that it is easier when it's just me and not seven of us, but it's still…I mean it amuses me."

Theodore smiled. 'That is true," he paused to take a drink of his tea "I am pleased that you remember our lessons."

Harry barely hid his grimace as he remembered his extra lessons. Theodore had insisted Harry learn how to behave properly and had come over three times a week to teach him proper etiquette. Harry was sure that he had never been hit by so many stinging hexes in his life. Steve, of course, had been no help, most times he ran off with Bucky the moment Granddad entered the house. When Steve did stay for the lessons, he spent most of it laughing.

"I know that you find the concept of pureblood etiquette tedious, but it will help you, both in school and later in your career. While there are many pureblood families, you won't find the same prejudice here as in England. Remember, this is a new beginning for you, try to put your old pre-conceived notions aside." Theodore waited for his words to sink in. He knew from the stories Harry had told them that the purebloods of the future were horrid towards anything and anyone who didn't fit into their perfect ideals.

Checking his watch Theodore softly sighed. "Come along Hadrian it is time to go." Standing he waited for Hadrian to finish his tea before leading the way to the apparation point. Harry took hold of Theodore's arm, held on tightly and squeezed his eye's shut. When he opened them again, they were standing on a nondescript train platform. Confused Harry looked to Theodore for answers. "I know, it's nothing like platform 9¾, however it is not possible for all the Ilvermorny students to gather at one platform. After all, there are students from all over North America attending. So, instead there are many teleportation platforms all over the country. Depending on which part of the country the student is traveling from their departure arrival time differs. Come, let us get you on the platform. Study hard but do remember to have fun as well. Write often. I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too granddad. Look after mum and Steve for me. I'll see you at Christmas." Harry turned and boarded the train. Finding an open area, he took a few deep breaths to settle himself. When he felt settled, he turned around to wave goodbye, only to find that Theodore had already left.

2

Hadrian Rogers