beta'd by my friend GinRyuu
August 2003
The cattle drive was coming to a close, and Harry found he didn't miss society as much as he thought he would. He also found a desire to get closer to Severus, not wanting to miss out on anything the older man had to offer.
One night he leaned over and gently pressed a kiss to Severus' cheek. The other man stopped mid-sentence and turned, catching Harry in a soft, slow kiss. They kissed for several minutes until Severus pulled back.
"If we do this, we have to talk first. Safety. Non-negotiable. I have condoms in my bag if it comes to that. I have dosed myself with a potion regime that lowers the risk of HIV spread, but I will not take chances. Second, how deep does this run? Are you looking for a one off because I'm the only one around or do we have more to discuss?" He arched a thin brow.
Harry took a steadying breath. "I would like more if you're offering. These past months have been a dream. I never knew how calming nature could be; it's always been a challenging environment for me growing up in the suburbs and then the camping trip from hell. I never thought it would appeal, but being here with you, it calms me. I'm not saying I'd want to move in tomorrow, but I think immigrating would be easier on me and my godson. I'm not a celebrity here, and how refreshing is that? But I'm getting away from what I'd like to say and that is I'd really like to kiss you again and more if you're up for it.
Severus chuckled and agreed, leading the younger man to his tent.
August 2003
They reluctantly rode into town, driving the cows into the pasture they'd stay in until spring. Severus smiled at Harry and, in a flash, became all business. The older man rode up to the main barn and dropped off his horse elegantly in front of another ranch hand.
The raven haired man took his time unpacking his horse, trying to keep an eye on Severus but also look nonchalant. He failed and another cowboy came up behind him.
"So you and Mr. Prince know each other? Ain't that a laugh. Seems to me like he sprung out the ground fully formed out of spite and snake venom."
"Yeah, he knew my parents and taught for a bit. Bit of a shit professor. This work suits him."
The cowboy nodded. "He's good with a rope. Well, thank you mighty for coming with us. Probably pretty different from London."
"Yeah, but in a good way. I might be looking to stay in the area a while longer."
"Hmm good for you. But I'd be careful around Prince. Rumor is he got caught with another man around the bar in town."
Harry bristled a bit. "I don't see that it's any of our business, mine or yours, how he spends his time."
The man put his hands up. "I'm just trying to do you a favor. There's some in town that don't take kindly to queers, no matter how good of work they do."
Harry grimaced and nodded.