Hiya folks,

So here's chapter to, as promised. And would you look at that it isn't even midnight yet which means I was actually on time for once, yay!

It's short and there's no Harry in this but I promise he'll be back next chapter so enjoy/

Disclaimer: Last I checked J.K passed the teenager mark decades ago sooo…

Sweet torture

Chapter 2

"He's out there again isn't he?" was the first thing the blond teen said when his lover entered what he had come to consider as their rooms.

"Yes Draco, he is" Severus answered, wearily running a hand through his hair.

"Sev, we can't just let him keep doing this to himself, it isn't healthy", said Draco even as he moved closer to the older man.

Severus sighed and wrapped his arms around the boy, or perhaps young man would be a better way to describe the blond, taking comfort from his warm presence. "I know love, I had hoped things would get better given time, unfortunately the opposite seems to be the case," the man finally confessed.

"Then why don't you stop him," demanded Draco "I can't take it much longer Sev. The Dark Lord is dead and still he refuses to admit his feelings even if only to himself. He's killing himself Sev. He tries to hide it and perhaps it works for those that don't know him as well but I can see it so why can't you?"

"Of course I can see it Draco," Severus snapped out letting go of the blond and moving to the fireplace, He gazed into the fire for a moment, as if it might hold the answers he sought. "I've probably seen it clearer that you think you have," he continued his gaze finally moving from the fire back to the blond.

At this Draco immediately clamped down on any sharp retort that might have found its way out his mouth. Hurt briefly flickered through his grey eyes before that too was swiftly hidden behind an impassive mask. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, it hadn't been fast enough to escape the former spy's notice.

Severus gave a small, nearly imperceptible sigh as he moved away from the fire, and sinking down into his personal reading chair beckoned the blond over.

"Come here love".

The blond didn't hesitate to go over and perch himself on his mate's lap, gratefully leaning into his comforting embrace.

"He needs us Sev, and we need him too."

Severus gently brushed back a stray strand of blond hair from his loves pale face.

"Peace my dragon all will be well soon."

"I know Sev, if anyone can save our mate from himself it's you."

"And you my love. He will need both of us to get through this, but first you should rest, you will be of no use to anyone if you wear yourself out."

That's all for today so R&R and see you next chapter.

Ciao,

Ebony