Snape picked up a handful of floo powder before looking down at his child. "I expect you to behave yourself Harry," he reminded him in a stern tone. You are not to interrupt. I do not want to hear a single cheeky comment either."
Snape stepped into the fireplace, waiting for his son to join him. "I am sure you don't believe my words but I do not have an issue with sending you to a corner right in front of Albus and should that happen you will find yourself in much more trouble once we are home. Is that understood?"
He hated being so stern with Harry, however, he was not about to be embarrassed by the teenager's behavior either. Truth be told, Harry had been exceptionally well behaved the day prior. He had finished all of his summer assignments without any argument at all. He had been so well behaved in fact, that Snape had allowed him to come down for dinner as well as tea after.
"I get it, I get it," Harry muttered softly, stepping next to the man after a few moments. "I promise I'll be good. Is Remus going to be there too?"
Snape nodded. "Remus will be there." He dropped the floo powder clearly stating their destination. A moment later Snape stepped out of the fireplace and into their parlor at Hogwarts. "Remus should actually be here any moment."
Harry smiled at the news, sighing as he folded his arms over his chest. "Again, all I want is a normal year." the teenager's voice faded when there was a knock at their door. He quickly moved across the room, opening the parlor door, his smile widening a bit to find that it was Remus.
Remus wrapped his arm around the teenager's shoulders as he stepped just a few steps into the parlor. "Let's get this settled, shall we?" He smiled down at Harry, who leaned into the man's side.
Snape nodded in reply as he moved towards the pair. "Albus is expecting us in just a moment.
We may as well start up to his office." He looked down at Harry giving him one last look of warning to behave.
Harry watched his guardian step ahead before he lowered his gaze down at the look. Remus moved his hand to Harry's back, gently guiding the teen to walk at his side.
Harry sighed as they walked up, Chewing on his bottom lip. He wasn't sure what Dumbledore was going to say and he was surprised to find himself feeling slightly nervous.
Snape walked up the stairs and down a long hall that led to Albus' office. "Relax." His voice was soft as he stopped at the statue, stating the password. "We are only discussing what will need to be done with the Ministry to fix this. You aren't in any trouble."
Harry glanced up at his guardian at the words, swallowing heavily with a nod. Remus rubbed the teenager's back gently as they stopped in front of the statue that guarded the Headmaster's office.
Remus spoke the password, the statue moving aside for the three to enter. He kept his hand on Harry's back as they walked towards the office door. "Just like Severus said, Harry. You aren't in any trouble."
Harry could only nod as he chewed on his bottom lip. He wasn't quite sure how they could both state that he wasn't in any trouble when he was expelled and preparing for a hearing with the Ministry.
Snape knocked on the Headmaster's office door and a moment later it opened on its own accord.
Albus stood from behind his desk, greeting the three of them and gesturing to the chairs in front of his desk for them to sit."Lemon drop?" He offered out the small candy dish, giving Harry a wink as he did.
Snape shook his head as he sat down.
Harry smiled softly at the gesture, taking an offered piece with a soft, "Thanks."
Remus declined the sweet as well, gently patting the back of the chair in front of him for Harry to sit. He moved to the chair to the left of the teenager so that Harry would be in the middle of the three.
Harry sat down, looking up at his guardian before his eyes lowered to his lap.
Albus smiled softly at the boy before he cleared his throat gently. "Severus, of course, explained what happened the other night at your godfather's. However, I was wondering if you could tell me in your own words what exactly caused you to cast the Patronus Charm Harry?" The man sat straight in his chair, his hands folded on his desk in front of him.
Snape turned his head looking down at his child as he waited for him to begin speaking.
Harry blinked, looking up and leaning back slightly in the chair. He could feel the eyes on him from all three in the room, and he hated it. "I was just out walking with Bane...my dog. Justin he...he wanted to come along so I let him and then two dementors came and attacked. I tried to save Justin. I really did." He stopped speaking, swallowing hard in an attempt to get his emotions under control. He would not cry in front of Dumbledore. He just wouldn't.
Albus nodded as he leaned back. He opened his desk drawer and pulled out a letter nearly identical to the one Harry had received from the Ministry.
"Unfortunately the Patronus Charm is powerful magic. Had you done a more simple spell this case that the Ministry has against you would have been much easier to fight." Albus sat up straight once more. "The hearing is set for Friday morning at 9am. Harry will have to explain why he cast the Patronus. Thankfully, they will be allowing his memory of the event to be seen, however, they will also want to hear his own words on his matter."
Snape took in a sharp breath before opening his mouth. "Certainly he cannot be expelled for defending himself? Was he supposed to just allow himself to be attacked?"
"He would not be expelled for defending himself," Albus nodded. "However proving that dementors were there will be difficult."
"Won't his memory do that job?" Remus questioned. "Certainly with his memo-"
"Aren't they in control of the stupid dementors?" Harry interrupted Remus' words before he could stop himself. "Shouldn't they know where they are and what they are doing?"
Snape raised a stern eyebrow at his child's words but forced himself to refrain from scolding him.
Albus nodded. "You are correct, they are in control of the dementors. However, if Severus is correct and the Ministry sent them I highly doubt they will admit to such a thing." Albus shook his head. "It will be hard to prove but not impossible. I have dealt with the Ministry numerous times. They are aware that I will not give up when they are wrong."
Anger rushed through Harry at the words, not even noticing the look his guardian had given him.
Remus stood, moving to stand behind the teenager, his hands resting on Harry's shoulders. "His memory will not be enough?" The man offered, tapping his fingers on Harry's shoulders in his own silent warning.
Harry was tense, leaning forward with his hands clasped together. He let his eyes fall to the floor as he listened.
Albus' lips pressed together in a tight line. "My fear is that the Ministry will accuse Harry of tampering with the memory."
Snape had hardly heard the words, his attention was solely on his child. He leaned forward putting his mouth next to Harry's ear. "Calm down." His words were hardly above a whisper. His left hand moved to gently tap Harry's knee.
Harry swallowed, glancing over towards Snape as the man whispered. He didn't reply, simply leaning back against Remus' hold on his shoulders.
Remus frowned at the Headmaster's words. "We are talking about a fifteen year old. An exceptional fifteen year old of course but a fifteen year old all the same. Harry would not even begin to know how to tamper with a memory."
"They'll bloody try though," Harry hissed glaring at the desk in front of him. "They don't care if they lie."
Remus took in a breath at Harry's words, glancing over towards his friend.
Snape remained silent however his fingers tapped Harry's knee a bit more firmly in warning.
"Showing Harry's memory will certainly be the strongest evidence of the event." Albus nodded. "Of course I will speak on Harry's behalf as well."
"There is absolutely no other reason that Harry would cast a Patronus," Snape interjected. "He does not do magic outside of Hogwarts. He knows better and I do not allow it."
"And if I didn't have my wand, I could have bloody died!" Harry snapped, his breath quickening slightly.
It was at those words that Remus gently pushed between the teenager's shoulders. He leaned down, speaking softly against Harry's ear before Snape could do so."Let's you and I go calm ourselves. Let's go." He firmly pushed between his shoulder blades, encouraging Harry to stand.
Harry's breath caught in his throat, standing slowly and moving around his chair to stand next to Remus.
"An excellent idea." Snape's voice was low and stern as he turned his head to give Harry an angry glare.
Albus did not notice Snape's glare at all, his eyes fixated on the letter. "There is no reason to be so upset, Harry. As I said I will speak to the Ministry at your hearing as well. We will get this all worked out."
Remus wrapped an arm around the teenager's shoulders, who didn't respond to the Headmaster's words. He gave his friend a nod as he guided the teen out of the office.
Harry swallowed heavily, taking in a deep breath. He was not blind and clearly saw the look his guardian had given him before Remus guided him out.
"Let's just take a little walk," Remus suggested as he started down the staircase outside of the Headmasters office. "We will calm down for a moment and then go back." His arm remained around Harry as he guided the teenager down the staircase.
Harry released a breath once more, leaning into the man's side as they walked slowly down. "I'm doomed," he muttered, closing his eyes as he trusted Remus to guide him once they stepped onto the flat ground.
"You aren't in the least. We have told you, we won't allow you to be expelled." Remus' voice was gentle, completely misunderstanding what the teenager was talking about. He guided Harry away from entrance to the Headmasters office and down the hallway.
"Snape is gonna kill me," Harry whispered, his voice hardly audible as he opened his eyes once more. He had seen the look on his guardian's face before he had left the office. He was well past cross.
Remus swallowed hard at the words. He had seen the look on Severus' face. The man was less than pleased with the boy's behavior. Remus led Harry to a staircase, sitting down on the stairs before he patted the spot next to him. "You'll calm down a bit, we will go back and you will behave appropriately. Severus will not kill you."
Harry carefully lowered himself down next to the man, resting his elbows on his knees. "I just hate this. It's not fair." He stared down at the stairs, moving a hand up to rest his cheek in his palm. "It's always me."
"You are right, it's not fair in the least." Remus' right hand moved to gently squeeze the back of the boy's neck before it traveled down to rub his back gently. "It will get fixed though Harry. The Ministry will see your memory and all will be set right."
"But what if... just what if they say I faked it somehow? I don't even know how you can fake a memory, but I can see Fudge saying that." Harry narrowed his eyes as he continued to stare down the stairs. "He's a right git who will find any way to take me away or prove me wrong."
"Have you any idea how hard it is to tamper with a memory?" Remus shook his head. "You heard what we said back there, you wouldn't be able to do so at your age." Remus shook his head slightly, his hand continuing to rub the teenager's back. "You also heard Dumbledore, he will fight for you. It will not matter what Fudge says."
Harry brushed a finger under his glasses, catching a tear before it had the chance to fall. "Now Snape is mad too."
"As I said you will calm down and we'll go back to Dumbledore's office. You will behave better and Severus will forget about it all." Remus wasn't sure he fully believed his words but he hoped that they were true.
Harry lowered his hand so he could tilt his head towards the man. He gave Remus a doubtful look before he looked back down the stairs. "I'm okay. It's just, I didn't think I'd get so angry hearing about it though. I just want to be left alone. For one year."
"I hope that after this matter is taken care of your year is a quiet one." Remus' hand stopped rubbing the boy's back, resting gently on the small of it. "Do you think you are calm enough to head back now?"
Harry bit his bottom lip, giving a slight nod after a moment. "Yeah," he said softly, slowly pushing himself up from the stair.
Remus gave a grin as he stood. "Everything will work out Harry, you shall see."He wrapped an arm around the teenager's shoulder leading him back in the direction of Dumbledore's office. "If you need to get out of there again, you just tap my knee and we'll go. I promise you that."
Remus said the password, causing the statue to move and the staircase to Dumbledore's office to appear.
Harry nodded at the words, leaning into Remus' hold as he was guided back. He could feel his heartbeat quicken as they walked back up the stairs to the office.
When the door opened, Harry hovered at the doorway before he was gently nudged inside and back towards his chair.
Snape turned, giving his child a warning glare before he turned his attention back to Albus. He leaned forward slightly. "As I was saying this entire situation is ridiculous. It was obviously set up by Cornelius in an attempt to have Harry expelled and taken out of my care." The man's nostrils flared in anger as he sat back in his chair.
"My concern is that it is not the Ministry at all but Voldemort," Albus replied, the twinkle missing from his eye.
"No," Snape shook his head firmly. "I would know if he had!"
Remus hovered over the teenager , keeping his hands on Harry's shoulders for a moment before he stepped over to his chair.
"Forgive me for saying this, Severus. But he does know Harry is in your care. It's possible that he would hide an attack from you, isn't it?" Remus leaned forward in his chair so he could look over to his friend.
Harry remained silent, though his breath did hitch just slightly. His eyes remained focused on the bottom of Dumbledore's desk.
Snape was silent for a moment before nodding. "That is certainly a possibility. However, I also know what he is capable of. Sending dementors to attack Harry?" Snape huffed angrily. "He would not do such a thing. He -" Snape stopped himself before he could say something he would regret in front of his child. "No Remus," Snape continued after a moment. "He is not behind this."
Harry swallowed heavily as he listened to Snape speak angrily, shifting his gaze up to the man. He was sure the man hadn't been this upset since last year.
Remus released a sigh, leaning back in his chair. "It's just hard for me to believe that the Ministry would do such a thing," he spoke softly, his eyes shifting to Harry to watch the teenager. The attack could have very well been deadly for the boy. If Harry hadn't had his wand, if he had passed out.
"However they would have had no problem pulling Harry from my care had I not removed him from Hogwarts last year," Snape hissed angrily. "I do not trust them at all."
Albus cleared his throat loudly. "While I respect your opinion Severus, I too have a hard time believing that the Ministry would put Harry in such a dangerous situation." Albus looked down to the teenager giving him a soft smile.
Harry moved his eyes up to Dumbledore, giving the man a small smile in return.
"Honestly, the attack could have been very well fatal if Harry didn't keep his wand on him at all times." Remus voiced after a moment. "They have a strong attraction to him as it is. I hate to think about the matter like that, but that would have been the reality if Harry had passed out with two dementors."
Harry swallowed as Remus spoke, shifting to rest his elbow on the arm of the chair. He rested his cheek in his hand, his gaze staring down to the floor as he struggled to contain himself from speaking.
"The Ministry will never admit to such a thing even if they did send the dementors," Albus sighed softly.
"You will not convince me that anyone else has." The anger had not left Snape's voice. "They will stop at nothing to try and remove Harry from my care."
"I don't... I don't care who sent them," Harry finally spoke, shifting his gaze up to glance at Snape before looking at Dumbledore. "I just. I don't want to be taken away, and I don't want to be expelled for something I couldn't help." Harry struggled to keep his voice even, swallowing once more.
Snape instantly reached out placing a hand on his child's knee. "Calm down," he said in a stern whisper.
"I will do everything in my power to see to it that you are not expelled," Albus promised as he gave Harry another small grin.
Harry slowly nodded, releasing a breath as he rested his head back against the chair. "Okay," he breathed softly, attempting to force his nerves to settle down.
"The bottom line is that at this hearing we need to be sure that Harry is not expelled." Snape said in an annoyed tone. "My child knows better than to do such a spell without a damn good reason!"
Albus nodded at the words. "I don't recall ever suggesting that he was not being truthful Severus."
"Calm down," Harry repeated his guardian's words, offering Snape a small grin, It faded soon after, his arms folding over his front.
Remus gave a soft sound, resting his elbows on his knees as he leaned forward once more. His hands clasped together as he spared a glance towards his friend and over to the Headmaster. "They would have no choice but to believe Harry when faced with the memory. Harry expressed worry about them thinking he'd somehow change that memory, but it can't be expected a fifteen year old knows how to do that."
Harry felt he should be insulted, but at the same time he couldn't help but wonder if it really was possible to change memories.
"Of course not." Albus shook his head. "That would be far too advanced for a fifteen year old, no matter how bright."
"I will not stand for Harry being expelled," Severus hissed. "Nor will I stand for anyone at the Ministry attempting to manipulate him during this hearing." The man had heard Harry's request to calm down but it had not registered with him at all.
"We will all be there, Severus." Remus spoke, releasing a sigh of his own. "He will not be manipulated in the least. I realize that neither you and I can be in the actual hearing with him but certainly our presence alone plus that of Albus' in the hearing will prevent them from doing so.
Harry listened to Snape speak, glancing to the hand that still rested on his knee. Reaching out, Harry simply rested his hand on top of his guardian's arm. If Snape was getting this angry now, he actually looked forward to hearing the man the day of his hearing.
Snape shook his head at the words. "You do not know what they are capable of. You have not heard the meetings that they have already had with him. Cornelius is..." Snape trailed off once more, stopping himself before he said something he would regret in front of his child.
"Cornelius is... determined," Albus spoke in a rigid tone.
"He has manipulated the boy in the past," Snape said angrily. "To the point where Harry found himself with a warmed backside for how he acted in response to the man. He is vile at best!"
Harry's cheeks flushed deeply at the memory, staring down to the floor before he closed his eyes tightly. He kept his head bowed, hiding his face the best he could from the three.
Remus took in a breath himself, watching the teenager carefully. "I apologize. I knew the man gave you issues, but not to such an extent."
"I do not doubt for one moment that he would send dementors. I am sure he thought I wouldn't even believe Harry about them resulting in his getting into trouble on top of being expelled." The anger in Snape's voice had not diminished in the least. "I am also sure that they did not intend for a child to die."
"I still have a hard time believing that he would do such a thing." Albus shook his head. "As Remus stated, Harry could have been killed. A child was killed."
"If I was gone then he wouldn't hear anything else about Voldemort being back," Harry snapped, looking up at Dumbledore.
"Harry-" Remus started before the teenager cut him off.
"No! It's true. They'll say they didn't send them but then also say Voldemort didn't because to them I'm lying about it all!"
As the teenager spoke, Remus stood and moved behind Harry. He gently rubbed between his shoulder blades, Harry releasing a sharp breath. "Sorry."
"Harry James," Snape hissed, not bothering to keep his voice low. "What did I say about you attending this meeting?"
Before the teenager had a chance to respond Snape turned his attention to Remus. "Can you please take Harry down to my quarters and use the floo to take him home?"
Snape looked down to his child once more. "Unless of course you would prefer to stay and I can do as I promised I would, should you be unable to behave?"
Albus turned his attention back to the letter from the Ministry. Clearly keeping himself busy as the scene played out in front of his desk.
Remus, if anything, looked ready to defend the teenager for his outburst. However, he refrained from doing so in the office, instead leaning his head forward to speak to Harry. "Let's go." He whispered softly, standing straight once more.
Harry glared at his guardian, hurt clearly written on his face as he pushed himself up. The man seemed angrier than he was, yet he was going to be in trouble for it! Harry stood without a word, walking past Snape and Remus. He didn't say anything as he left the office, Remus sighing as he looked down to Severus. Just as the teenager however, Remus didn't say anything as he went after the boy.
Remus walked out of Dumbledore's office. As the door shut behind him he gently cupped a hand around the back of Harry's neck. He cleared his throat softly as he started down the staircase. "Let's get you home. Perhaps we could play a game of chess. How does that sound?" Remus worked hard to keep his tone cheerful.
Harry struggled to keep his emotions under his control, only shaking his head as he was led down. He raised a hand, brushing his fingers under his glasses to clear away the tears that started to fall. His shoulders gave a small shake, eyes sticking to the ground. "No," Harry finally muttered, folding his arms over his front.
"He's not angry with you Harry, despite how he just acted." Remus led the boy past the statue and down the hallway towards the staircase that led to the dungeons. "I am sure he will see that. He will calm down."
"I was less angry than he was," He muttered softly, raising his other hand to brush away his tears.
"I know." Remus led the teenager down the staircase. "Let's get you home. Maybe a cup of tea and a nap will help you feel better. I will talk to Severus when he arrives." Remus paused for a moment as they stepped onto the lower level. "As I said, Harry, he isn't cross with you."
Harry nodded slightly at the words. He was hardly tired, but he also wouldn't deny the chance to just be alone. "Alright," he whispered, stepping onto the lower level with the man. He knew Remus would talk to Snape to the best of his ability. If there was anyone he could hope to calm his guardian down, it would be him.
Remus nodded as he squeezed the back of the boy's neck gently. "It will be okay Harry." Remus pushed the door to Snape's parlor open, guiding Harry in. A moment later he moved over to the mantle taking a handful of floo powder. "Right up to your room and I'll bring tea up to you okay?"
Harry nodded as he stepped up next to the man within the hearth. "Okay," he murmured, closing his eyes as the flames swept around the pair. When he opened his eyes once more, he stepped into the parlor of their house. Bane came into the room quickly, pressing his face against Harry before going over to Remus to greet the man with a bark. Harry finally smiled, though he continued to walk and went up the stairs to his room.
Remus gave a soft sigh as he moved to the kitchen fixing a cup of tea for the teenager. When the tea was ready he carried it carefully through the house and up the stairs. He paused outside of Harry's bedroom door knocking twice and waiting for a response.
"Come in." Harry called out softly, having already changed into a pair of pajamas. He was sitting up in bed, still far from tired at all. He ran his hand over his covers, idly smoothing the fabric out.
Remus moved into the room, Bane entering a moment after him and jumping up onto the bed.
Remus placed the teacup on Harry's bedside table before sitting down on the side of the bed. "You know that I am not cross with you...don't you?"
Harry gave a small smile as Remus sat, giving a small nod. "Yeah." He pulled his knees up, resting his chin on his knees. "I want this over with."
Remus gave a small nod. "Facing your guardian or just this whole ordeal?"
The teenager gave a scoff, sitting up and reaching over to take the cup carefully. "Both would be great," he uttered, taking a slow sip of the tea.
"All will be fine Harry, you shall see. We are not going to allow you to be expelled." Remus felt that he had repeated the words numerous times over the past few days. "Just try not to think about it until the hearing." He reached out a hand, giving a soft rub to the child's side.
"No, I'll just keep thinking about the hearing instead," Harry sighed, taking another slow sip before he placed the cup to the side. He laid down, facing towards Remus. "Thanks Remus."
Remus sighed softly as his hand moved over Harry to rub his back. "There is no reason to thank me." He opened his mouth to continue but before he could he heard the floo roar to life below him.
"Harry James!" Snape's voice bellowed from below.
Remus gave Harry's back a light tap before he stood. "You stay right where you are. I will go speak with him."
Harry's breath caught in his throat before he nodded, pulling his covers up and over his chin. He closed his eyes, willing himself to calm down. The last thing he needed to do was to go downstairs and yell back at the man.
Remus stood straight, rubbing the boy's arm for a brief moment before he headed out of the room. Closing the door behind him, Remus quickly withdrew his wand to cast a silencing spell over the teenager's room. He certainly didn't want Harry hearing any of the conversation and he hoped that the child would actually rest. Though he was sure that it was wishful thinking. Tucking his wand back into his pocket, Remus descended down the stairs and into the parlor.
Snape was making his way through the parlor with the intent to go up to Harry's room when he saw Remus coming down the staircase. "Where is Harry?" Snape's lips set in a tight line. The anger was still radiating through his body.
Remus remained a few steps up, effectively blocking his friend's path upstairs. "Lying down and calming down." He watched Snape carefully, treading cautiously with his words. At least, the best he could. "Let's discuss this, Severus. Harry's fine." Remus took another step down, motioning a hand back towards the parlor.
"Harry is not fine." Snape shook his head though he did turn and move back into the parlor. "That child needs to learn to listen when I tell him to do something. Do not for a moment tell me that you saw nothing wrong with his behavior!"
"I saw a very upset child, and that you were and still are, Severus, just as upset. If not more so." Remus followed after the man, folding his arms over his chest. "I heard him even tell you to calm down." While Remus' tone was soft, there was still a small lace of disappointment to it.
"I have every right to be upset at how my child is being treated," Snape huffed as he sat down in his armchair. "Just as I have every right to talk to Harry about his behavior today."
"And he has every right to be upset at how he is being treated, Severus." Remus remained standing, although he stayed a few steps away. "He did have his moments, yes. But when I brought him back it was you who was... quite upset." The man sighed, moving to sit on the coffee table carefully, in front of his friend. "I do not believe for a moment you're upset at Harry right now... just the issues regarding him."
"I discussed it with him. He knows that I agree that he has a right to be upset, scared, angry even. He also knows better than to interrupt when an adult is taking and certainly in such a forceful cheeky tone." Snape paused for a moment, his hand moving to pinch the bridge of his nose. "I am furious with this entire situation Remus."
"He was simply voicing how he felt, Severus. I certainly won't blame him for doing so. Nor does Albus, I'm sure." Remus leaned forward slightly. "It's clear how upset you are about this, but I will not stand by while you take out your frustration on the boy for doing the same."
Anger rose in Snape's features for all of a moment before it deflated, his face softening slightly. "I should have never allowed him to attend the meeting. It likely hurt him more than it helped." Snape's tone had softened a considerable amount. "Is he okay?" Before Remus could answer Snape shook his head. "He is probably fearful that I am furious with him."
Remus released a breath he didn't even realize he had been holding. He was almost ready to go into an argument and was pleased to realize that wouldn't be the case. "He can't stay in the dark about issues involving him forever. It was a good thing that he came because come that hearing, it will be something completely different for him." Remus took a breath, resting back slightly. "He won't be just in front of those that care for and love him. He'll be facing the Ministry."
Remus fell silent at the last words, slowly shaking his head. "I think he's just stressed as well as concerned he's in trouble. But..." The man offered a soft smile. "I told him you and I would speak."
Snape nodded at the words. He could only imagine the trouble it would cause if Harry had a rude outburst at the Ministry. "You are right as per usual Remus," he nodded. "Harry is very fortunate to have you...as am I." Snape gave his friend a small grin. A moment later the man moved to stand. "I am going to go have a bit of a talk with him. Calm his concerns."
Remus' smile remained as he stood as well. "I'll take my leave then. Don't mind if I stop by later to see how things are?"
"Please do." Snape nodded as he stood as well. "I know that Harry would love to see you." Snape paused for a moment, giving his friend a serious look. "Thank you. Thank you for everything."
Remus stepped up to the man, gently patting his friend's back. "You have nothing to thank me for." Remus moved past, taking a handful of floo powder. "I would never tell you how to raise Harry," he stated, pausing in the hearth as he turned. "You already do an amazing job at that. Everything I say is a suggestion. And I'm just reminding you before you go up there, that he is just as upset and nervous as you are. Or more so." Without waiting for a reply, Remus disappeared into the green flames.
Harry stared at his far wall away from the door, his hand idly running down Bane's side as the dog stretched out. He hadn't heard anything from downstairs since Snape's arrival and he couldn't help but assume that one of them had cast a silencing spell.
Suddenly he heard the floo roar to life, indicating that both the spell was broken and that it must have been Remus who left.
Harry felt his stomach tighten at the thought. Snape would be coming up soon then. Quickly the teenager tucked his hands under his pillow, pressing his cheek into the fabric.
Snape moved across the parlor, slowly starting up the staircase. His mind wandered back to the time Harry had spent in Albus' office as well as the conversation he had just had with Remus.
Remus was right, Snape did not doubt that. Harry had been, for the most part, well behaved during the meeting.
Snape paused outside the teenager's bedroom door before he knocked once. He waited for all of a moment before he pushed the door open and walked into the bedroom. Bane instantly stood up on the bed, his tail wagging as he barked happily.
Snape crossed the room, his hand reaching out to pet the canine for a second before he sat down on the edge of the bed, his attention turning to his child.
Harry stilled on the bed when Snape knocked, nestling his cheek against his pillow when the man stepped in. Harry felt his bed dip slightly as Snape sat down and he opened his eyes to stare at the wall. After a moment he pushed himself up to a sitting position and pulled a knee up to wrap his arms around.
Snape swallowed hard as he looked over to his child. There was no denying that Harry was upset. The boy looked as though he expected to be punished at any moment. Snape cleared his throat softly. "I believe I owe you an apology."
The teenager instantly noted that the man, overall, seemed calmer. His anger was gone from his features and his tone wasn't cross.
Harry blinked as hot tears burned at his eyes, raising a hand to rub them away before they had a chance to fall. "It's okay," he spoke softly, resting his chin back onto his knee.
Snape shook his head. "I was angry over the situation at hand and I should not have taken my frustration out on you. I apologize. You have my word that I will do my very best to refrain from making such a mistake again." The man gave a soft sigh as his hand reached out to gently tap the top of Harry's left foot.
Harry gave a small smile at the motion, nodding as he kept his eyes on Snape. "I just want this over. I want this to be over and for the school year to be started already. With me there and not expelled." He tightened his hold around his knee. "I know, I keep hearing I won't be. That it'll be fine, but no one really knows." Frustration entered the boy's voice as he stared down at his bed. "It's Fudge... he's not gonna make it easy Snape, you know he's not."
"No," Snape agreed softly. "He will not make it easy. Not at all." He cleared his throat as his hand rested on his son's foot. "However you heard Albus, he believes you and that is very important. He will not allow you to be expelled nor will I or Remus. His idea to use your memory was nothing short of brilliant. This will all be over come Friday."
Harry closed his eyes tightly. "I don't even care about who sent them, I really don't. It doesn't even matter. They'll deny that they did and in the same stupid breath they'll deny He's back." He sniffed slightly, pulling up his other leg to wrap his arms around it as well. "Everyone wants me dead and at this point anyway." Harry's voice fell soft, a hand moving to run over his blanket.
"Calm down," Snape instructed gently. "Not everyone wants you dead. The Ministry does not want you dead, they want you out of my care and in theirs."
"But if I didn't have my wand... I almost didn't take it with me," Harry admitted softly, turning to press his forehead into his knees.
Snape refrained from commenting on the boy's confession. At the words, however, he tapped Harry's foot once more, raising an eyebrow at the teenager. "You are aware that Cornelius is privy to some information about our home life. He is likely aware of what the punishment is should you forget your wand. He knew you would have it with you."
"I had dropped it." Harry continued to speak into his legs before he raised his head up slightly. "I dropped it for a moment." He looked over to Snape, his cheek resting on his knees. "I dunno what to think," Harry admitted softly. "But for a moment I didn't think I'd make it." His voice was hardly above a whisper, eyes moving from his guardian and down to his bed.
Snape sighed softly as he waved a hand gesturing for Harry to come over to him.
At the gesture, Harry pushed his covers off of him and moved over to sit next to the man. Instantly he rested against Snape's side as he stared down at the floor.
Snape wrapped an arm around the child. "We haven't had a chance to really discuss how frightened you must have been."
He took in a breath, releasing it slowly. "I mean of all places, I didn't think I'd have to worry about being outside here."
"Nor did I." Snape squeezed the child tightly for a moment. "Obviously moving forward it will be more imperative than ever that you have your wand on you should you leave this house."
Harry moved his head away from the man, pressing his forehead into his hand with a soft groan. For a while his scar had a dull ache, and now that things were calmer he had actually started to pay attention to it. "What am I supposed to do on Friday?" He lifted his head up,resting his chin into his palm.
Snape ignored the question about the Ministry completely focusing instead on the small groan he had heard. "Is your scar bothering you?"
"Just a little," Harry muttered, brushing his fingers over it. "It's okay. It just aches sometimes."
Snape frowned softly at the words. "You are positive you don't need a potion for it?"
"I'm fine." He nodded with his words. "Really. I'm just... I'm just annoyed."
Snape nodded in reply, accepting the words. "Should we discuss Friday then?"
"Please." Harry rested his head back against his guardian's shoulder. "You, me, Remus and Professor Dumbledore will be there. Right?"
"Correct," Snape nodded. "However, as you know, only Professor Dumbledore will be able to accompany you into your hearing." Snape's hand moved to gently rub his child's back.
"But... then what? Just show them the memory?" Harry couldn't help but feel that doing so just sounded too easy.
Snape nodded. "You will also have to answer any questions that they may have for you." Snape's fingers tapped the teenager's back lightly. "Without losing your temper and without cheek Harry James."
"Fudge is going to make me," Harry answered honestly, shaking his head. "Like before. I know it."
"Albus will be right there. He will not allow him to do so." Snape's hand began gently rubbing the boy's back once more. "You just speak politely."
"And... and that's it?" Harry idly rubbed at his scar once more.
"We will learn their decision in regards to it all and then yes that is all."
Snape's fingers tapped the boy's back once more. "Speaking of keeping your temper with Cornelius, I apologize for mentioning what happened the last time you did not. I should not have done so in front of Albus. I know that you were embarrassed by my doing so."
"You... you were really upset." Harry smiled just slightly, looking up at the man. "Can't lose your temper either. Though I'd really like to hear you give Fudge a piece of your mind in the middle of the Ministry hallway."
"I was extremely upset." Snape nodded. "I certainly do not intend for that to happen again. My main concern however is that you keep your temper. I do not want to be stern with you or scold you while we are there. That being said it cannot look as though I allow you to act in such a way either."
Harry gave a nod at the words, heaving a heavy sigh. "None of this is fair. I just want to enjoy one year. Just one. But so far that's too much to ask."
Snape sighed softly at the words. "With any luck after this is taken care of the rest of your year will be quiet."
Harry gave a hum at the thought, turning his head up to look up at the man. "But you're not cross with me, right?"
"I am not completely pleased with your behavior during the meeting but I am not cross with you. I just hope that come Friday the behavior does not repeat itself." His hand continued to rub Harry's back.
Harry closed his eyes as he rested his head against Snape's shoulder. "I won't even say anything unless I'm spoken to." He wasn't sure how if he'd be able to follow that, but it sounded like the right thing to do.
"Good." Snape nodded. "Remus won't be able to save your rear end and remove you from the room this time. I need you to work hard to keep those words." Snape looked down at the teenager. "I hardly want a reason to be cross with you."
Harry's cheeks flushed slightly at the words, keeping his eyes closed. "You wouldn't do anything there anyway."
Snape hummed softly. "I'm not quite sure why you think I wouldn't put you in the corner right in front of Albus but I assure you Harry I would. He is well aware of my discipline techniques."
"Is there anyone who isn't?" Harry scooted back on the bed as he opened his eyes, leaning his back against his pillows. "It's bad enough when you do it in front of Remus."
"There are plenty of people who are not." Snape raised an eyebrow at the words. "If you did not misbehave in front of Remus it would not be an issue would it? Hmm?"
Harry gave his own hum, folding his arms over his chest. "Glad he was here though," he murmured.
"You are extremely fortunate to have Remus in your life. I hope you realize that." Snape's voice was soft as he spoke the words.
Harry leaned forward, smiling at the words. "Yeah. I know," he whispered just as soft. "Lucky you listen to him."
A small frown rested on Snape's lips at the words. "You are indeed." He paused for a moment swallowing heavily. "I am fortunate to have him as well."
Harry shifted his eyes up at the words. "I didn't... I didn't mean anything bad by that. He just..." The teenager shrugged slightly. "Just seems like you'll listen to him better than even Professor Dumbledore."
Snape hummed softly at the explanation. "I value Remus' opinion over most others as I know that he always has your best interests at heart."
Harry nodded, his smile remaining. "Is he going to come back today or no?"
"I believe later tonight." Snape paused as he raised an eyebrow. "Though here you are in your sleep clothes before supper. I assumed that you are putting yourself to bed early tonight as punishment for your cheek?" Snape's lips smirked slightly at his words.
"Were we going anywhere else?" Harry grinned slightly before he shook his head. "Remus thought I should rest, but I feel okay now."
"No we are not going anywhere." Snape shook his head slightly. "You may as well stay in them now."
"Can we go downstairs then?" Harry swung his legs over the bed before standing fully, stretching with a hum.
"We can." Snape nodded as he stood. "I'm sure Bane needs to be fed and let out."
When Snape stood, Harry moved over and wrapped his arms tightly around the man. He closed his eyes for a moment as a sigh passed his lips. He knew Snape was angry at the situation still, but he also couldn't help but wonder if he was just as worried as he was. If it was the Ministry who sent the dementors, then it just proved the lengths they would go to.
Snape wrapped his arms around the teenager for a moment. "I'm not cross with you Harry," he said softly, unable to help but worry that the boy still felt he was.
"I know," Harry muttered, his eyes fluttering open to stare towards the ground. "It's just been a real shit week." He didn't even care about being scolded for his words. They were true.
Snape hummed softly in agreement though a moment later his fingers gently tapped the teen's back. "Language." He let go of his hold on his son. "Go tend to your pet and then we shall have dinner."
Harry turned, patting his leg. Bane immediately stood, though his movements were more careful as he jumped down from the bed. He panted happily as he followed after the teen and went downstairs. Harry opened the back door, allowing Bane to run out ahead of him before the teenager stepped out as well to spend time with his pet.
TBC...