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Severus' lips curled into a sneer without any conscious thought as Ronald stepped before him. The youngest Weasley son lifted his eyes to meet Severus' gaze and instead of ducking away as Severus would have liked, Ronald smiled. There had been a time when Severus had been able to frighten the living daylights out of the lad with just a small glance. He sighed as affection rolled easily through their bond.
The same could have been said for Harry. There had been a time when they could not be in the same room together without erupting into shouting. These days they could not be in the same room together without indulging in touching. It was a nice change, Severus thought. He liked and he knew how much Harry liked it as well.
Their relationship had always been a passionate one. From their earliest moments when mutual hatred had drawn out their anger to now, when it drew out their affection and passion for one another.
Ronald gulped nervously and ducked his head. Severus smirked. He still had it. Granger on the other hand, now she was a different matter. She merely smiled sweetly at him and Severus' eyes narrowed into a glare. She seemed unruffled and said. "You can drop the act, Professor; we all know that you care quite deeply about Harry."
"I have no idea what you are talking about, Miss Granger." He feigned ignorance, it was better than to sputter about like a first year Gryffindor. It didn't matter in the slightest that everybody had witnessed the display between him and Harry in the other room earlier and then the toe curling kiss in this very room. Let them think that Severus was not inclined to share his bond mate, which he wasn't and that the kiss hadn't just been for Harry's sake as well as his own. He didn't need reassurance that Harry would always turn towards him for anything he needed; he felt it quite clearly through the bond.
"Oh so you didn't linger longer in the sitting room to reassure Harry…"
Now how does she know that?
"Of course not. Why would I do such a thing? That you youngest have trouble keeping your hands to yourselves does not mean that I cannot behave myself around my bond mate?
Besides, it is Harry who has a problem with keeping his hands to himself…well, that is not entirely true…I do like to touch him, he has a very nice arse but that does not mean that I do the same in company nor that I mind when he touches me…I simply suffer through it.
Severus kept his face carefully blank even with the arousal and amusement that came through the bond. He shifted his stance slightly to accommodate his growing arousal. Sometimes he wished he wore robes again, they hid so much more than trousers ever did.
He maintained a steady glare at his husband's best friends. Weasley ducked his head with a flush but Granger continued to smile. Severus knew that his reputation was ruined. Never again would he be able to frighten them, or their children. Merlin, Harry may have done wonders for his reputation but he had also ruined it.
Perhaps it was a good thing that he had no desire to return to teaching. He still did not have any idea of what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. It was the first time that he was free, that he had a future. That he could choose what he wanted to become and the prospect daunted him. Sometimes, if he was completely honest, it even frightened him.
It was liberating to know that he could do whatever he wanted to do but it still hadn't sunk in completely. He suspected that it wouldn't for quite some time.
He glanced down at Harry as the younger wizard pushed himself against his side. One eyebrow rose in an inquiry but Harry shook his head. Severus didn't need the bond to tell him that Harry was feeling nervous. He glanced around the room; it was deserted except for the two of them. The Weasleys and Granger had already made for the sitting room.
"Mr. Potter, what did I tell you about cuddling in public?"
"Uhm, I don't believe you ever told me anything about that. Now, you did mention sex in public, as many times as possible in all the possible places…"
Severus frowned. "No, I did not. I believe that this is a conversation we have never had, perhaps we should have it."
Harry laughed softly, his green eyes sparkling. "Not on board with that viewpoint then? Shame…"
Severus eyebrow rose as Harry shrugged and then moved towards the sitting room. Severus caught his husband's hand easily as he said. "Now, do not be hasty! I have never said that I would be opposed to it but if I recall correctly then it was you who had trouble with the fact that your godson or the Weasleys would see you spread across the kitchen table and with me pounding into you…I have no objections to any of your suggestions at all." He pulled Harry towards him, and slowly kissed Harry's neck.
Harry struggled lightly against him but finally with a moan he relaxed as Severus nibbled slowly. "Severus, they are waiting for us…"
"You are the one who brought this up. I am merely responding to a suggestion." His hot breath against the creamy skin was making Harry shiver. Severus had trouble focusing himself with the heated emotions that ran over him.
He closed his eyes, enjoying the simply closeness with Harry. Even the Weasley chit had not managed to come between him. Even while he would never admit it, he had been frightened for a moment. Ginny could offer Harry other things than Severus could. She could offer him a true family and children.
Severus could offer Harry a lifetime of danger. They would never have a peaceful life, both of their pasts made sure of that. Severus was too tainted and there would always be people that wanted to claim justice by killing or hurting him. And at the moment, Severus knew that the only way to hurt him was by hurting Harry.
He didn't care about himself. He used to believe he deserved everything he had coming but Harry had managed to make him believe different. His husband showed him that he was caring and that he deserved to have somebody to call his own and to love. Severus was still struggling with that notion today.
There were times when he was sure that he would wake up in Azkaban but day by day he began to believe more and more that he wasn't hallucinating and that it was real. The bond had cemented that even more for him.
But now, now the biggest challenge of all awaited them, would their plans for the future be accepted by those that claimed to care for them? There was only one way to find out and regretfully Severus pulled away from Harry.
The younger wizard's eyes flew open and he stumbled. The green eyes flew up to Severus' face and he merely smirked and said. "I have no problem with keeping your friends waiting but do you?"
"No...don't stop…I mean…I guess that we shouldn't keep them waiting…but if you promise me, Severus, that the moment we get home, we will finish what we started, yeah?"
Smirking fully now, Severus leaned in for a quick kiss and said. "Of course, love, anything for my husband…." And as he saw the green eyes darken and felt the wave of arousal through the bond, he knew he would make it just fine through the next few hours, Harry might have some trouble though no fault of Severus, of course.
Hp
Talks had never been Harry's forte. He didn't mind being the center of attention now and again but it didn't make him feel easier. When he had lived with the Dursleys he had always been ignored and it had suited him well. At school, he had never felt the urge to speak up unless somebody asked him. Hermione had done all the research for the three of them so Harry had no problems with it to have her get all the credit. She deserved it purely for putting up with them.
He glanced about the room. Molly's look was carefully blank but Harry could see the worry behind it. Hermione glanced between him and Severus, as if she was curious as to what they were talking about. As if they could even communicate mentally.
I don't think Severus would like that. It is one thing to accept a bond that allows you to feel the other's emotions but it is quite another to have somebody privy to your thoughts. I don't think even I would like that. My thoughts have always been private and I would like them to remain that way…
Harry surfaced from his thoughts when a light hand on his shoulder roused him. It seemed everybody was waiting for him to begin. He smiled and sat up straight.
He was seated on the couch with Severus. Arthur, Ron, George and Hermione had summoned or pulled up chairs. Molly was sitting in the one chair that stood in the sitting room. He slowly gathered his thoughts before he said.
"You know that the past few years have been hard for all of us. I know that some of us have no thought about the future because we all assumed that we had no future. And now, well it is overwhelming to even begin to think of what we can and what we want to do. I foolishly had assumed that we would have been safe. That once Voldemort was defeated we could live our lives in peace but we were rudely awakened from that dream. You were all there, you saw what they did. And while it may just be this one thing, both Severus and I fear that it will not be. The next time somebody may get seriously hurt and I for one could not live with myself if that were to happen. We don't deserve it either. We deserve peace and to do whatever we want…That is why we have made a difficult decision."
Harry took a deep breath and glanced up towards Severus before he said. "That is why we have decided to spend the next few months travelling. It may be a cowardly thing to do but we need a change of scenery. As I have said before, for years our futures have not been our own and we have not seen anything of the world. I don't know what I want to do with my life and I think that we more than earned it to spend a few months or even a few years just relaxing and work through the stuff that happened the last couple of years. So yeah, that is what we wanted to tell you…"
Harry finally fell silent. He glanced towards Severus, uncertainty eating at him. How would they respond?
Ron cleared his throat softly and Harry's eyes flew up to meet those of his best friend. Ron merely smiled and then said. "Can't say I blame you, mate. I know how hard both of your lives have been the past couple of years. I will miss you, mate, that's for sure. I always thought that we would join the aurors together but I understand why you wouldn't want that. Just remember to send us postcard while you are off doing whatever you are going to do."
Relief washed over him so strongly that Harry wasn't even sure if it was coming from him or from Severus. He glanced up sharply as Hermione choked upon a sob and crossed the room to fling her arms around Harry. He patted her upon the shoulder awkwardly.
Mr. Weasley rose from his seat as well and moved over to Severus. Severus rose from his seat and Mr. Weasley said. "While we will miss you both, I can understand the reason. Whatever you decide to do, we shall support you."
Astonishment washed over Harry and he had trouble focusing by the force of the emotions before Severus got himself under control.
Harry bought himself time by slowly untangling himself from Hermione. She finally caught the hint and pulled away herself. "I am so sorry, Harry, I don't know what came over me. "
"It's okay; you will just miss me that's all." Harry grinned shyly at her. She laughed and hugged him tightly as she said.
"I can't say I am going to be happy that you are going to travel but I can understand the reasons. I just wish we could join you and see all the beautiful places that Severus will take you to."
"Well, I would say the same but I like to think of it as kind of a belated honeymoon. So, don't be offended if I would like it just to be the two of us."
I can only imagine what we can do. Let's just say that we won't be only sightseeing…I bet that there are some days we won't even make it out of the hotel room, not that I mind.
Harry forced himself not to drift off into a fantasy. There would be plenty of time for that later.
"Oh yeah mate that reminds me. Your birthday present well….I'm not sure if you noticed it but Hermione and I didn't get you a present. Well, Hermione got you some books but I guess they weren't really for your benefit as much as Snape's… I have been thinking long and hard about this and well I didn't think it would be such a nice idea to get you another Quidditch book since it was the first Voldemort free birthday and as it was also a wedding present, we decided to come get you a pet…."
Harry didn't know what to say. Ron was watching him, gauging his reaction and Hermione continued. "It was just an idea, Harry. It was before everything happened and there are a lot of wonderful pets out there that can be really helpful. You can get a crup and train it so it can travel with you…or a bird of some kind, perhaps a phoenix or a raven. They are really intelligent creatures and they can be trained as messenger birds like owls…"
"Or we can get you an owl." Ron put his hand on Hermione's shoulder to stop her from rambling. The blue eyes of his best friend were watching him and Harry knew it was alright to say no. He didn't know what to think to be honest.
Hedwig had been his only owl and not once in the past year had Harry thought of replacing her. Nothing could replace her. She was his first owl and had been his first friend and the first present he had received for his birthday. But perhaps it was time to get a new owl. It would make things easier that was for sure.
And it would be the perfect way to keep in touch while they were abroad. He would have to discuss it with Severus first but it was the thought that counted. "It would have to be an owl that is used to flying long distance…"
"I am sure we can find one, mate, before you leave, if you want one that is..."
"Is it bad if I say that this is one of the best birthday presents you guys ever gave me?" Harry grinned.
"I thought that you liked the talking diaries I got you guys in fifth year…" Hermione pretended to be annoyed but Harry could see by the way her eyes sparkled that she wasn't annoyed at all. She was pleased.
"Harry? Severus?"
Harry glanced up at the call of his name. Molly stood before him and she smiled at him as she said. "I know that there is nothing that keeps you here and I wish you all the luck on your journeys but just know, that you will be missed and should you return, you will always have a home here"
This time, Harry was quite sure that the overwhelming gratitude he felt wasn't only his but he was the only one who embraced Molly but he was quite sure that Severus showed his gratitude in his own way. Harry may look forward to traveling the world but he knew he would miss everybody in this room dreadfully.
Hp
"Severus?" Severus spun on his feet at the call of his name. Harry had disappeared with his friends into the garden. Molly was standing behind him, her hands in her apron as she regarded him.
"Yes, Molly?" Severus recalled the way she had insisted that he use her given name and in light of all that she had done for him and his bond mate he honored her request.
"Will you take good care of Harry, dear?"
"Of course." He inclined his head.
"And Severus?" He glanced up again to find her standing much closer to him before.
"Will you allow him to take good care of you as well?" He flushed uncomfortable but her embrace was quick and fleeting and even before he could return it she was gone. She merely smiled sweetly at him and Severus resumed staring outside, doing his best to try and hide the flush in his sallow cheeks.
He was not surprised that the Weasleys had reacted the way they did. They always wanted what was best for those they cared about and Severus knew that Molly and Arthur saw Harry as their own son. Severus suspected that they had included him in the family as well from the moment he had married Harry.
He shifted his stance slightly. A year ago he couldn't have dreamed that he would have a husband and his freedom. If Harry hadn't interfered and linked their magic together, he would have been dead now, or a lot worse than he was now. He owed Harry a lot.
While a few months ago he resented Harry for that because he had assumed that Harry would hold it over him as his father would have done. But it didn't take long in the relationship that he had to conclude that the imagine he had of Harry was wrong. His husband was nothing like either James or Lily. Harry was his own person and it was somebody Severus was starting to love more and more each day.
Severus didn't glance up as the floo flared. He focused on the bond with Harry, closing his eyes as he examined it.
Harry was genuinely happy and comfortable with his friends. He had no fear of being rejected or hurt and while they had their differences, they accepted them as only those whose bond has been tested by hardship and war…
"Severus, there is a floo call for you." Severus glanced up at Arthur's voice.
"Who is it?" The older wizard moved towards him and clasped him lightly on the shoulder to guide him towards the sitting room.
"Minerva. She contacted me about our help to restore the castle. When she heard Molly speaking to you, I had to tell her that you were here. She asked to talk to you. I hope that you do not mind but you know how persistent she can be."
"She would have found us no matter where we hide."
"Have you told her of your plans then?"
"No, we have not yet had the chance. You are the first people that we told. The time was right and so far our plans are just that, plans."
"It is always good to discuss plans and especially to have them. Harry and you are entitled a long break. If you decide to take that break abroad, well, I cannot say that with everything that has been going on I can blame you. Many look to Harry to lead the wizarding community to a new era and becoming the leader that Albus was supposed to be. If I know Harry that is the one thing he doesn't want. But you know as well as I how demanding our society can be, especially to those they think that demand how Harry's life should lead his life. You guys go and have your well deserved honeymoon and we shall hold the fort down."
"I doubt they will be storming the castle." Severus turned to regard the older man. Arthur smiled and said.
"No, they probably won't, at least we hope so. And if they do, well, I am sure we can find a way to hold them off."
"Perhaps they should be reminded that Potter is spoken for?"
"You should appear in the Prophet more often, I'm sure if you let the public in on your own terms that you will find them on your side."
"Or they will trample all over us in the need to try and barge into our lives." Severus said dryly. He was rewarded by a laugh as he said. "You know that I am an intensely private man and so is Harry. We deserve that much after everything we have been through…"
Arthur regarded him solemnly and said. "Of course, Severus. Now, Minerva is waiting. You can close down the floo when you are done. I will make sure that nobody disturbs you."
"Thank you, Arthur." He nodded and moved into the now familiar sitting room. He crouched by the fireplace as he softly called.
"Minerva?"
Her face appeared in the hearth. Lips curled into a smile and Minerva then said. "It is good to see that you are going out and about, Severus. Yet I didn't picture you to go out and have dinner at the Weasleys."
"We needed a break from redecorating…"
"What happened this time?" Her tone was disapproving and Severus shrugged.
"I am sure that you remember the nasty surprises that the house had when we tried to get it ready as Order Headquarters. Well, let's just say that not everything was found."
"Nasty surprises?"
"The house is stubborn to change as all the Blacks are."
"That says enough. If you have time, there are some thing that I would like to discuss with you and Harry."
"Such as?"
"Your future plans. Tea in my office tonight if you are able."
"I fear that I may need something stronger than tea for this conversation."
"I will find my best Scottish whiskey."
"Do you intend to get us drunk to agree to whatever scheme you have cooked up now? Even Albus never attempted that."
"Albus was many things but he was not an alcoholic. He knew that he needed his wits about him for whatever he did. And besides, you do not know half of the things Albus got up to in his spare time." Minerva smiled in a way that was entirely too reminiscent of a Slytherin.
"And I do not care to know. There are some cases in which ignorance is bliss after all."
"I would say. So you and Harry will come?"
"We shall leave in an hour if that is agreeable with you. I do not wish to tear Harry away from his friends so soon."
Her gaze softened and she smiled. "You are growing soft with Harry by your side, I like it."
"Why does everybody keep saying that? I have not grown soft." He growled. There was no bite behind it and they both knew it. Minerva merely smiled and said.
"It is just a cup of tea and conversation with an old friend, Severus, what can go wrong?"
"Do you know how many times Albus said that and you know what he asked of the both of us?" His voice dropped dangerously and Minerva's eyes hardened before she said.
"For years we have been friends and we have shared an honest relationship, as honest as a spy can allow himself to be. Do not mistake me for Albus Dumbledore, Severus, for I am not. I know what you have done and how you have struggled and I will never ask for anything that you do not wish to give or do. You should know me better than that!" Her voice was sharp and Severus cast his eyes down. She was right.
"I'm sorry, Minerva, that was uncalled for. We will join you for tea and I shall take your word for it that it is indeed only conversation that we shall have."
"See that you do, young man! And I shall see you and Harry in a few hours."
Severus nodded and closed down the floo. He took a moment to just sit there and gather his thoughts. Chats with Minerva had always been enjoyable in the past. Last year he had sorely missed them but he had understood why she no longer counted him as a friend. It had hurt to lie to her but it had been necessary to keep his role. It felt right to see that she wished to continue their chats and wanted to include Harry into them, to accept Harry as a part of Severus' life.
Severus slowly rose and went in search of his husband. It was only right that he asked Harry's opinion of what they were going to do.
Hp
"You have no idea what you have done, mate. By marrying Snape you have opened up a pit of flobberworms. Mom keeps hinting that we should follow your example because you are so happy and get married as well. Merlin, it is hard to be alone with Hermione without mum following you five minutes later. How are you supposed to get a snog with your girlfriend in when your mum keeps bursting in at every moment?"
Harry had to bite his cheek to keep from laughing as he said. "Get your own place perhaps?"
Ron made a face. "Yeah as if she would let us. I mean, I know people got married right out of Hogwarts when they were mum's age but that doesn't mean that we have to do the same thing. It is only sensible to figure out what we want to do with our lives, live a bit and then settle down, get married and raise a bunch of kids."
"Well, there is one advantage of getting married. Nobody will ever look up strangely if you share a room. Or if you cannot keep your hands off of each other…especially during the first few months of marriage." Harry tried not to sound wistful.
He tried to curb his own wave of arousal as the memories of those hands overcame him.
"You certainly don't seem able to." Hermione smirked in a way that was all too similar to his husband and Harry frowned. Her smirk melted into a smile as she said. "I don't mean it like that, Harry. And besides, you aren't the only one who has trouble keeping their hands to themselves."
Harry flushed and averted his eyes. He floundered for another subject but then Hermione asked. "Now there is something I have always been curious about. Is it true what they say about men with large noses have large….well you know…"
Harry wasn't the only one who flushed bright red this time. Hermione's eyes held his own even when her cheeks blushed crimson. Ron's mouth was opening and closing but there were no words coming out. Harry fumbled for an appropriate answer before he said. "I am not going to tell you that. It isn't done to share bedroom secrets. But I will say this; the size of his nose is a very good indication on his other size."
He smirked and winked as Hermione's formed an o. Ron was red and his eyes locked with Harry as he said. "Mate, I know that he is your husband and all but there are some things I don't really care to know."
Harry laughed. He couldn't help himself. It felt good to know that some things never changed. The look Hermione gave him was one that told him that she was dying to ask for more details but Harry shook his head. "Nope, not sharing anything…"
"And pray tell, what are you sharing with your friends that concerns me?" Harry glanced towards the door. Severus stood there and Harry didn't even need to look at Ron to know that his best friend was most likely gaping like a fish and trying not to draw attention to himself, as if he wouldn't.
"Just easing Hermione's mind."
"Do I want to know what you have been telling her?" An eyebrow rose and Harry rose to his feet. He smiled as he approached Severus and tucked himself against his husband's side.
"No, don't you know that there are some things it does better not to know."
"Yes, ignorance is bliss, as you and Mr. Weasley found out so many times."
"Now there is no need to be mean. Is there anything you needed or did you simply come to rescue me?" Harry grinned up at his lover.
Desire and arousal swept through the bond so quickly that Harry felt as though he was caught in a whirlwind of those feelings. He bit back a moan as his cock swelled. He wanted to pull Severus' head down and kiss the older man breathless. He wanted to be pressed against the wall with Severus behind him, sucking his neck and pressing against him. He needed that man's cock up his arse…
Harry bit his cheek to prevent himself from saying anything remotely embarrassing. He wasn't the only one flushing. Severus was blushing lightly but the intensity in the dark eyes as they met his own spoke of promises and Harry knew he would happily leave now to fulfill them.
"Uhm so yeah….why did you come here? Do you want to go home?" He struggled with his words for a moment to try and control his arousal.
"Minerva contacted me and asked if we would come to see her for tea tonight. She has things that she wants to discuss with us." Much to Harry's annoyance, Severus' voice was perfectly calm.
"Oh, and it can't wait?"
"I am sure that we can go another time if you want to. I can arrange it with Minerva, I am sure."
"Well, I guess it must be important if Minerva asked us to come over. It is fine. It has been a while since we have spoken with her. I guess I will go and say goodbye then to everybody."
"I will Apparate us to Hogwarts. Minerva knows that we can be a bit later than the agreed hour." Harry nodded. He would think of a suitable excuse why they were late. After he convinced Severus that having him against the wall at Hogwarts could be quite enjoyable. He was quite sure that he didn't need to do much persuasion.
Hp
Crack
The loud crack of Apparition still took Harry's breath away. He doubted that he would ever get used to this method of transportation. He swayed for a moment but the strong arm around his waist kept him grounded. The hand on his arse, however, Harry assumed that it had nothing to do with regaining his balance.
He leaned against Severus' chest for a moment before he opened his eyes. He glanced up. The dark eyes were incredibly dark and then Severus bent his head to forcefully crush his lips against Harry's.
Harry enjoyed the kiss as he always did but when he opened his mouth and Severus refused to deepen the kiss and even pulled away, Harry sighed. "We are going to be late…"
The Potions Master pulled away and began to walk towards the lit castle. Harry trailing behind him.
Oh come on, I am sure he must feel how aroused I still am. He can't pretend that he isn't….I know that he is.
The slow arousal was spreading through their bond, spiked back to life by their kiss.
Harry bit his lip and knew what his plan was. He doubted that Severus would have that much problem with seeing eye to eye on these things.
He glanced about the deserted grounds as they walked towards the castle. Severus had slowed his pace so that he was walking beside Harry. Both were lost in thought. Harry had been back at Hogwarts so he knew that the castle still had a long way to go before it was restored to its former glory but still.
Harry stopped before the grand staircase that led them up to the castle. He took a deep breath and slowly released the tension that had been coiled inside of him. No matter where he may go, this was home to me and it always would be.
He glanced at Severus. The older wizard was not looking at him but at the castle before them. Harry could only guess what his husband was thinking. To Severus this castle had been his home for years as it had been his prison. Severus should have been free of this place but Albus had tied him to a destiny he didn't want as surely as the older Headmaster had prepared Harry for slaughter.
He shivered suddenly. He really hoped that Dumbledore was absent from his frame today. He had no desire to see the Headmaster.
"Shall we go inside?" Severus' voice betrayed nothing and Harry had no desire to try and figure out what Severus was feeling. He nodded, halting in surprise when Severus held out his hand for Harry to take.
He grasped the slender hand firmly, feeling the dry and strong fingers curl around his own. It shot jolts of fire up his spine, especially when Severus' fingers brushed the tattoo around his wrist, by the twinkle in the dark eyes; Harry knew it hadn't been an accident.
The moment they were inside the castle Harry halted. He stopped in front of Severus and pulled his head down. He kissed the thin lips, smiling as they opened in surprise. He barely brushed Severus' tongue when the older wizard moved, taking control of the kiss.
"We do not have the time for this, we will be late…"
"A few moments won't matter…Besides, you'll make sure that we come precisely on time."
Severus groaned softly. "That was a bad pun."
Harry pouted. "I must be doing something wrong if that is what you are paying attention to."
He pulled away slightly and turned towards the staircase. It got the desired effect however because immediately he was pulled back against Severus' chest and his protests were crushed underneath hot lips that kissed his own with an intensity that made Harry shiver.
Desire shot through the bond again and it made Harry weak in the knees. It was partly his own but it was Snape's. He had aroused the older wizard better than he had thought he could.
Harry moaned into their kiss, lips parted in a soundless gasp as Severus moved on to lavish attention on his neck. He loved it when Severus did that. He bared his neck further so Severus had full access. Slowly humming in the back of his throat, Harry's hands moved through the long dark hair.
A need was coming over him and Harry knew he could not last long. He wasn't the only one, he knew that much. He didn't want the sweet slow lovemaking, he wanted something quick…
"Severus, I need you." He whispered.
The dark eyes met his own and before Harry knew it he was kissed thoroughly. He yelped softly as his back hit the wall but then focused on deepening their kiss. His hands undid his belt but stronger hands slapped them away to do it for him. He arched into the hands as his pants dropped around his ankles, his boxers soon followed.
He shivered when Severus pulled away to undo his own pants. The heat in those dark eyes was enough to make Harry feel so good.
Desire and lust followed each other so swiftly that Harry was unable to tell the difference. A hunger for him burned in his veins and Harry wanted nothing more than to stroke his cock but he knew Severus would never allow him.
He leaned his head back the moment Severus stepped forward. He tilted his face up for a kiss as Severus stepped in to press Harry against the stone wall behind him. The cool stones did nothing to cool off his arousal and Harry whimpered.
His cock, which had deflated somewhat since they left the Burrow was rock hard again and Harry tried not to give into the instinct to buck his hips against Severus' thigh. His need must be evident through the bond because the next moment Severus spun him around and whispered.
"Lubricous."
It was an unfamiliar spell but the next moment Harry shivered when his entrance suddenly felt slick and loose as though Severus had prepared him. That would be a spell that would come in handy later.
He pushed back against his husband when he felt the blunt tip of Severus' cock breech him. He braced himself against the wall, hands next to Severus' hands. It didn't take long before they found a rhythm.
The desire and hunger for Harry was overwhelming him. He closed his eyes, enjoying the sensation of being claimed by his husband in the truest sense possible. The lips that ghosted over his ear and neck, the hunger that overwhelmed him, the need that was building inside of him and inside of his lover. The next moment, affection for Harry took over and when Severus bit down upon his neck, Harry came with a shout.
His muscles clenched but Harry was still too deep within the bond to feel his own body properly.
Relief washed through him when his own climax drew Severus over the edge. Severus emptied himself deep within Harry….
They rocked together for a moment before Severus collapsed against Harry. Severus braced himself against the wall to prevent his weight from making Harry fall against the wall. The two hands next to his head, the warm weight against his back, the cock still deep inside of him and the ragged breathing in his ear made Harry realize that he never felt happier.
He reached behind him as he glanced over his shoulder. Severus' face was relaxed and his lips parted to show yellow uneven teeth but to Harry he had rarely looked lovelier. Even the dark eyes were not as sharp and intense as they usually were. Harry reached up to tangle his hands in Severus' hair as he slowly pressed a kiss against the cheek close to his lips.
Slow contentment stole over Harry and a deep level of satisfaction. Peace that followed those emotions made Harry smile. He could clearly remember the few times he had indulged in a quick wank during the school year and how for a long moment afterwards, the only thing that was on his mind was how good he felt.
He smiled when Severus focused upon him and softly said. "Hey there."
The dark eyes sharpened after a moment but Severus did not move. Instead he leaned even closer into Harry's body and leaned his head down on Harry's shoulder. His lips ghosted over the spot he had marked but then he glanced up and kissed Harry deeply.
"Hey yourself." That deep voice would always send shivers down Harry's spine. Accompanied with those dark eyes, well, Harry was sure that if Severus put his mind to it, he could seduce anyone…and luckily he is mine…
Severus kissed him again and then said. "As enjoyable as it would be to remain here with you, we are expected."
"I suppose we should go then."
"Unless you want her to go looking for us."
"What makes you so sure that she hasn't done so already?" Severus stiffened against Harry and not in a good way. Harry groaned and closed his eyes. It would have been too good to be true.
"There is no need to be embarrassed, gentlemen. I have caught many a student in the same position in my time, though it is the first time that I ever caught a former Professor but I digress. Be lucky that I heard you before I saw you. I expect you in my office within ten minutes, boys, no dwindling now…" Minerva's soft footsteps could be heard walking up the staircase.
"How did she know what we were doing?"
"We were quite loud." Severus sighed softly but did steal another quick kiss before he pulled away. "It seems Mr. Potter that we are expected. Now then, shall we go up in one way or do you intend to drag me off into another deserted corridor to have my wicked way with you?"
"Well, it would be fun to see how long it takes her to find us this time."
"Do you really want to test her?" Laughing Harry shook his head. He supposed that they were expected to he began to make himself presentable, but not before stealing another kiss and admiring Severus as his lover dressed as well.
Hp
"Enter." Minerva's voice was impassive to anyone who didn't know her well but Severus could hear the layer of amusement in it. He opened the door after casting one last look at Harry. Predictably his husband was already blushing like mad.
Severus thanked his lucky stars that spying had taught him some things. And that was how to keep his facial features blank. It was something that had served him well in the past and certainly did so now.
They walked inside the office that had served so many Headmasters and Headmistresses in the past. Minerva looked up as they entered and Severus glanced around the room. He frowned when he noticed that Dumbledore's portrait seemed to be missing. He had anticipated that the coot would be waiting for them.
Nothing his glance, Minerva said. "I asked him to leave us alone."
"And he obeyed that?"
"It was that or he would be moved to the kitchen." Severus nodded and sat down in a chair in front of the desk. He crossed his legs at the ankles and rested his hands on his knees. His eyes were training on Minerva even when Harry fidgeted beside him.
Nervousness and embarrassement were the main emotions coming from the bond. Wariness followed and Severus knew that Harry was waiting for somebody to comment on what they just did. Harry was waiting for judgment and coiled as a spring…
Sighing softly Severus shifted his chair so that he was sitting next to Harry and could easily rest an arm on the headrest of Harry's chair, fingers lightly brushing through the hair at his neck. It seemed to settle Harry and the younger male cast a bright smile towards Severus.
"Now gentlemen, I asked you to come for a reason obviously. But first, would you care for some tea?" Harry nodded immediately but Severus narrowed his eyes at Minerva,
"Have you forgotten the promise of something stronger?"
She rolled her eyes and said. "Of course, I have not, Severus. What would you like?"
"A scotch without the ice please."
"And no tea? Would you care for something stronger, Harry?" Severus could feel Harry shaking his head as his husband said.
"Tea is fine, Professor…"
"You may call me Minerva, Harry, you have earned that honor." Severus raised an eyebrow at the glance Harry cast him but then the younger male nodded. Minerva summoned a house elf to ask for tea.
She then got up from her chair and Severus was dismayed to see that while she was still graceful she appeared old. The war had taken more from her than Severus had at first assumed. They all had their price to pay but this was the first time that Minerva looked her age to Severus.
He nodded his thanks as she handed him a glass filled with the amber liquid. He took a sip, closing his eyes at the familiar burning in the back of his throat. He had never been a heavy drinker because he had seen firsthand what alcohol did to a person who was addicted but he did enjoy the occasion scotch or firewiskey. It was one of the few things he indulged himself in through the years and he had found a companion in Minerva to share the occasional drink with in trying times.
It was something he had sorely missed last year. More than he dared to admit. They had become friends over the years and while Severus had never told her anything Albus asked him to do, it was something he had come to enjoy their fortnight chats and visits.
"I don't suppose that I have to give you the lecture about what is appropriate behavior in public and what is not?" Severus merely raised an eyebrow as he met Minerva's eyes from across the desk.
"Have you ever known me to act anything other than matriculate, Minerva?"
"What I just witnessed Severus was not proper behavior."
"It is for a married couple on their honeymoon."
"Not to have sex in public."
"You can blame Potter…."
"Excuse me?" Harry choked on his tea.
"He seduced me. It isn't my fault that I was forced to marry him. I simply take advantage of the situation."
"You were certainly taking advantage of the situation from my point of view. And you were not objecting terribly." Minerva murmured before she smiled and continued. "I take it that you are well if your previous actions are anything to go by?"
"We are as well as is to be expected. We are considering our future options." He phrased it carefully before he became aware of what it sounded like. They were past the considering stage and had basically settled upon a course, to go abroad, where, when and how was yet to be determined.
"And would it be overly curious on my part if I may ask what you have been considering?"
This time Severus could not contain Harry as he spoke up. "This and that. Like Severus said, we are contemplating our options."
Even Minerva was taken aback by the vagueness of Harry's answer. Severus had to bite back a smirk. The time had long passed that Harry blurted out whatever he had been thinking. It was refreshing to see.
"Very well then. I shall simply come to the point if you are not inclined to answer. I have called you here today not to have small talk, as enjoyable as that may be but to offer an option for work if you will. I know that you both deserve your freedom and that you have done your fair share of work for the greater good and for Hogwarts but I would like to offer you both a teacher position and a home here at Hogwarts."
Aware that his mouth had fallen open, Severus closed it with a snap and hissed. "You are aware that you ran me out of Hogwarts just before the Final Battle, are you not?"
The sharp eyes of the Headmistress regarded him as Minerva said. "I am aware of that, Severus and I apologize. If we had known what your true role was, we would not have made it so hard on you. You play your parts too well. We would have helped you but what is done is done. I can only apologize and hope that you will accept it."
He inclined his head. Harry leaned forward as he asked.
"What kind of position do you mean?"
Minerva frowned and said. "Severus can return to his old position as Potions Master and Head of Slytherin. You would have to sit your NEWTs first, Harry, though it does not have to be at Hogwarts and you can try your hand at Defense if you would want that…"
Severus tuned Minerva out and looked away. He should have expected something like this. He didn't want to return to Hogwarts. For years it had been a prison to him and while it once had been home, since last year it had been hell. He needed a place to heal and away from memories. For him there were good memories here but also bad. He didn't want to return, that much was for certain. Perhaps in the future he would return to teach and to pass his craft on to others when their names were held in regard and uttered with respect, not with contempt as revenge was plotted against them.
Severus wanted peace. He did not want to be at a place where he would have to watch his every step and move. Where he could not even kiss Harry in public without fearing for retribution. He wanted to be able to walk hand in hand, to wake up next to Harry without having to be nervous about anything. He wanted to meet new people who did not cower nor had their judgment ready simply because he had uttered his name. He wanted to be anywhere else but here, at least for the next few years…
But what if this was what Harry wanted. Could Severus deny his husband the one home they had both known? Could they build a home together and become a true family?
"And if we decline?" Severus' head snapped up to meet the green eyes. Harry wasn't watching him but Minerva, face grave.
Affection and reassurance flowed through the bond. Harry would not leave him. They would discuss this and decide what they wanted together…unless Harry, the brat, had already made up his mind. The shy happiness Severus could detect underneath the determination made him realize that he should never worry when Harry was around. This man really did have his best intentions at heart.
Minerva regarded them for a long moment before she smiled and said. "Then I would be disappointed but I would say that regardless of what you may want to do with your life, there will always be room here for you at Hogwarts."
The tension in Severus' body eased as he relaxed. He tossed back his scotch, mouth working against the bitterness of the drink. His hand was once more buried in thick hair as Harry leaned back in his seat, smiling brightly.
"Guess we can tell her what we want to do then, right Sev?"
"If you cannot offer me the decency to use my full name, I will not dignify that with an answer." Severus summoned the bottle of scotch to him to pour himself another glass.
"Alright, fine, can I tell her what we have planned, Severus, or would you like to do the honors?"
He feigned a yawn and slid further down in his seat, balancing the glass on his stomach as he said. "No, feel free. I shall simply sit here and wait until you are done."
Harry shot him a quick grin and allowed him to see the roll of his eyes before he bounced forward to snatch a biscuit, taking a quick bite and swallowed before Severus snapped. "If you do not get to it, then I shall do it."
His sharp tone was met by nothing but amusement. In the past it would have been hurt or anger but it seemed that Harry was able to tell when Severus meant it and when he didn't.
"Severus, allow the boy his biscuit. He needs all the energy he can get when he is to keep up with you." Harry wasn't the only one who choked upon his food as Severus choked upon his drink. He coughing, trying to clear his windpipe but Minerva seemed satisfied to have them both silenced for the moment.
He glared at her, even when the effect was somewhat lessened by the tears that had jumped in his eyes. Harry had managed to recover as well and took a sip of his tea before he said. "I was going to finish chewing but if you want me to throw all my manners to the wind, I suppose I could, if persuaded right…"
"I doubt I would need to do much persuasion then. One look and you abandon all reason." Severus pitched his voice low.
"Yeah, but you should know what kind of look…" Harry glanced back at him and the heat that darkened the green eyes and the lust and desire that instantly aroused Severus. Oh if they had been in another room or without company he would have…
The clearing of a throat was enough distraction as Severus shifted to hide his arousal. Now he remembered why he always wore robes. He shot a glare towards Harry to see the spots of pink in the high cheekbones and smirked. Luckily he could always count on Harry's blushing to save them.
"Well, you see it is like this. Severus and I have hardly had a vacation or the opportunity to travel. It is something that I have always wanted to do and I know that Severus shares my opinion…." Harry stopped for a moment and his face fell as he whispered. "…And since we aren't appreciated for everything we have sacrificed..."
Harry fell silent and Severus leaned forward as he held out his hand for Harry to take. Immediately his hand was enclosing a smaller one and Severus continued, glancing up at Minerva. "We have thought long and hard on this and we were surprised that the other shared the same idea. As Harry has said, we hardly have had the opportunity to travel or have a proper vacation. Therefore we have decided to go abroad for the foreseeable future. We do not yet know where we shall go but that is the other reason why we will not and cannot accept your job proposal."
He fell silent and took another sip of his drink. He had no idea how Minerva would respond but he was unprepared when she suddenly leaped to her feet and said. "That is wonderful news. I do hope that you shall send cards of every place that you have visited."
She rounded the table and before Severus could protest or do something else, she had pulled him to his feet and had embraced him. He rolled his eyes at Harry as the younger man said. "If everybody keeps expecting postcards then we shall have to take thirty owls with us or we shall be too busy to see anything because we will be writing postcards the entire time."
"Oh don't worry; I'll keep you busy enough that you will forget all about those damn cards." And this time, Severus watched in satisfaction as Harry choked upon his tea.
Hp
Harry was sure that if he glanced at Severus now, he would either blush crimson, or kiss the man senselessly. The latter had merits but he had other things on his mind. They were saying goodbye to everybody, or at least starting to prepare everybody for what they were going to be doing.
But there was one place he hadn't visited in a while. He did not have much reason to go there and truthfully, he had not had the time with everything that had been going on. And neither did you really think about visiting. You have been focused upon the future instead of the past, which is good but still. I would like to visit but I don't want to go alone. Perhaps Severus would like to come as well. It can be closure for us both.
"Severus?"
The older man turned back to glance at him as Harry stopped in the middle of the road. Now that he had his husband's attention, Harry wasn't even sure what he was going to say. He took a deep breath and then said.
"I want to go to Godric's Hollow to visit mum and dad's grave."
It seemed that he took Severus by surprise. Several emotions flashed through the bond but they were gone too quickly before Harry could identify them. He merely waited until Severus asked.
"Surely you do not require me to come along?"
"Well, would it be wise to allow me to go alone?"
If Severus really didn't want to go, Harry wasn't going to push him. Severus glanced away before he turned back to Harry and said.
"Perhaps it would be beneficial for both of us if we would both go. The last time I had been there was before you came to Hogwarts."
"You visited the grave often?" Harry didn't know what to say. He hadn't known anybody who had gone to visit his parent's grave. Aunt Petunia hadn't even said where they were buried and she certainly wouldn't take Harry to visit them, instead preferring to forget all about her sister. And her nephew if she could get away with it, which in most cases she did.
Severus merely nodded before he said. "In the early years, I did. It was the only place that provided solace to me. It was the only place I could be alone and grieve in peace. But I found that as time wore on, I didn't have the desire to visit the grave so often so in the end I stayed away. It was enough to think of Lily on her birthday or on the anniversary of her death."
Harry studied Severus' face as he spoke. The dark eyes revealed nothing, as they often did but the lines in the sallow face deepened. He nodded at the appropriate moments to say he understood. He would not make his husband go if Severus did not want to.
"I can understand if you don't want to go, Severus. It can wait and I am sure that nobody will try to harm me there. That would be sacrilegious." He would like Severus to come with him but he wouldn't push him.
"I will join you but we shall go in the morning. I do not fancy stumbling about in the dark in an unfamiliar graveyard."
Harry grinned and allowed his gratitude to show through the bond as he hugged and kissed his husband.
Hp
There were days to visit a graveyard and there were not. Today was one of those days to do. The sun was shining and that gave the graveyard a friendlier feel. It was a small graveyard, the place where the people of Godric's Hollow buried their dead but it was large enough to ensure that those who did come to visit could do so without being bothered by other people.
Severus paused in the entrance and took a deep breath. It was hard enough to try and understand how he was feeling without having added emotions of Harry.
He closed his eyes and focused upon the bond.
There was a lingering sadness that would never go away, Severus knew that. It came from losing one's parents at such an early age that you couldn't even remember them. There was also regret that Harry hadn't known them better or had not visited sooner. And then there was joy and shame for that joy. Harry wasn't sure if he was allowed to be happy with everything that had been going on.
Severus vowed to kiss his husband for that alone. If anybody deserved to be happy, it was Harry. He frowned. Harry had fought as hard in this war as Severus had even when Severus had given up more. If one thought that Harry deserved happiness, didn't that mean he deserved it as well?
Well, I guess that solves that riddle then. So I should kick myself whenever I think I am unworthy of happiness of love? I am both and I deserve it.
Severus slowly released the breath he had been holding. He glanced around. He felt different and free. Harry was standing before him, a worried expression on his face.
"Is everything alright, Severus?"
Smiling slightly, Severus leaned in and kissed Harry deeply. Puzzled by his behavior. Harry yielded. When Severus broke away, he softly said. "Everything is perfect, Harry."
The bright smile he was beginning to love blossomed on Harry's face and his husband nodded, giving Severus another quick kiss before he said. "Just take your time. I'll go ahead…."
Severus nodded to say he understood. Harry needed some time alone with his parents, to say whatever he wanted to say. He glanced around and slowly made his way over to the gravesite of the Potter's.
A terrible anguish suddenly made him gasp and Severus broke out onto a run.
What he found made his heart clench together in either sadness or anger, Severus was unsure because the grave Harry had fallen on his knees before, bore the name Sirius Black.
Slightly cliffy. But the chapter was very long so I hope you liked it. Review of course and send me some ideas on where our boys should go and travel.
In the next chapter: When Severus discovers that Sirius Black is buried next to James and Lily Potter, can he keep his temper in check or will his old anger cloud everything? And can Severus see beyond his own pain to reach out to Harry and finally have the long awaited talk about Harry's role in Sirius' death? Our boys are also finally thinking about their options for the future, where will they go? And will Harry find an owl for his birthday or will he come back with an entirely different animal? That and more in: A new home.