Chapter 6

Harry was ecstatic when Snape told him he would play Quidditch. It was all very new and exciting for him. He wasn't however, excited about having to help Snape in the potions lab every week. But he decided it was a small price to pay in order to be able to have some fun.

His schedule began getting very full now with Quidditch and schoolwork. The next Wednesday, he had his first session with Snape.

He was immediately put to work cleaning cauldrons but his sleeves kept getting in his way, making his arms wet. He ignored it like he did last time, continuing on with the cleaning. That is, until the potions professor came over to check on him.

He sneered, "Foolish boy. You're getting your sleeves all wet. Take off your robes at once Potter."

Harry stopped scrubbing and paled, looking up at his professor. He was wearing Dudley's old hand-me-downs that were about four sizes too big on him. He was embarrassed enough that these were the only clothes he owned, but he surely didn't want Snape to know of all people. Harry was sure he'd just make fun of him for it.

"Oh, I don't mind Professor," Harry said, hoping Snape would leave him be.

"I will not be disobeyed. Take off your robes."

"Yes sir," Harry gulped. He did as he was told and got back up on the stool by the sink.

Snape looked at him incredulously, "Is this some kind of joke Potter?"

"No sir." Harry shook his head.

"What do you think you're wearing?"

"These are my clothes sir."

Snape scoffed at Harry, "You expect me to believe your muggle family bought these rags for you to wear? Did you think I'd let you out early to change into regular clothes if I saw these? Was that your brilliant plan Potter? Just for your foolery, you'll stay and finish the cauldrons in these so-called clothes. And don't even think about pulling this stunt again, do you hear me boy?"

Harry nodded solemnly, "Yes sir."

Harry finished his cleaning and returned to his dorm. He truly had nothing else to wear. He wasn't sure what to do.

"Hey, Draco?" Harry inquired as they got ready for bed. "Where do you get your clothes from?"

He shrugged, "My mum usually buys them for me. But I've also owl ordered some clothes before. Why?"

Harry looked down ashamed, "Well, Professor Snape told me I couldn't wear these clothes anymore."

Draco snorted, "I should hope not. They really are atrocious Harry. Don't worry Mate. I'll show you how to owl order. In the mean time, you can borrow some of my clothes if you want."

Harry grinned, "Thanks Draco."

He ignored the urge to hug the boy out of gratefulness. How had he been so lucky to make such a great friend?

By the time his next session with Professor Snape came around, he was well dressed in the finest clothes he'd ever worn. He almost felt bad wearing them knowing he'd be cleaning the whole time, but Draco insisted they were old and it was okay to get them dirty.

Harry knocked softly on the door and entered to a displeased looking Snape. Harry gulped and approached the man.

Professor Snape slamming a paper down on the desk in front of Harry, "What is this Potter?"

Harry looked up at him confused, "My essay for potions sir?"

"I can't read it. Your penmanship is atrocious. How do you expect me to grade this if I can't read it?"

Harry looked at his paper, and pointed out, "You made comments."

"I don't want backtalk Potter. Your handwriting needs serious revision." Snape snapped.

"I-I've never used a quill before sir. I'm having trouble getting the hang of it." Harry explained.

"Very well," Snape said, "I shall tutor you in penmanship during our weekly meetings instead then. As your head of house, I suppose it is my responsibility to give you private lessons."