Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Giving A Chance	By : Leania07 Category: Harry Potter AU/AR > Slash - Male/Male Views: 17355 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 9
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor do I make money from this fic.

Chapter List
- 16
- 17
- 18
Extra warning**: Mentions of pedophillia/rape/child molestation.
A/N: Thanks for the reviews, I enjoy hearing your thoughts on my story. As mentioned above^ this chapter contains suspicion of child molestation/rape/pedophilia. I do not consider those topics to be taken lightly, but it does happen; sometimes to those we least expect. I also reward my readers at the end with a bit of sweetness to compensate for such a heavy topic. Chapter 18 is giving me problems; I've hit my first wall. Thought I had a hammer and chisel, turns out to have been fakes. Sledgehammers are too cumbersome, so maybe a jack hammer...*goes off to work on said 'wall'*
Chapter 17: Mistletoe and Holly
Albus knew there was some changes in Harry; he saw the way the boy addressed students from each house the same, including Slytherins. He refused any drink or food when they met in his office so he couldn’t change his behavior; of course if it did suddenly change, it would draw too much attention. Instead, he decided to see how the teachers felt and questioned each individually. The only one who had anything negative was Severus, of course, but that was slightly subdued when he said it may be best if the Potter brat can keep more people from joining Riddle. Well Severus as always called him ‘the Dark Lord’ and really the man was too weak. Couldn’t call him Voldemort, Riddle, or even Tom; yet somehow the man got enough information to keep himself worthy.
He gazed around the Great Hall, winter break would be here soon and so they had begun decorating. Hagrid, useless but faithful Hagrid, had once more brought in the trees and Fillius had his Charms students making the ornaments. Each year it was amusing to see the gold and red decorations over green and silver; a fitting way to show Gryffindor is always above Slytherin. Once more he wished he could just be rid of the House, casting all who are Sorted into Slytherin from Hogwarts, but alas there were too many influential families with children whom are Slytherin. Looking at the table, he is still pleased; each year there is less and less as those families send their children off to other schools. Soon he will achieve his wish, by simply pressing those Dark families out of his school; if there is no more students in the House perhaps he can then close it down. Who needs it, anyway? Salazar Slytherin was a disgrace and should not have any standing in such a fine establishment.
“Is everything alright, Albus?” Minerva had noticed his glare and it sent a chill down her spine. She recalled the look only a handful of times, and only Grindelwald was the sole person not a Slytherin to be on the receiving end.
“Of course, my dear; just some issue with a law being passed in the Ministry, nothing to worry over. So have the lists of who will be staying over the winter holidays gone up?”
“They have, and already a few names are listed.”
Albus nodded, “How many will be joining Harry this year?”
At first Minerva was concerned, how did he know?! Then it dawned on her, he didn’t know Harry was not staying over the holiday, he assumed Harry’s name was down and asking how many other children were staying. “Mr. Potter’s name has not been put down, but as of this morning we have 6 children staying. That may change, as the list only went up Monday.” It was now Thursday; she would have to alert Harry that Albus has been questioning.
“Really, Harry is usually the first with his name down; I’m sure he’s had a lot on his plate. I’ve seen him reaching across to other Houses to make friends; I hope his marks haven’t declined as a response.” He masked his displeasure with concern for his grades, but Albus didn’t like how friendly Potter has become with the Slytherins.
“Actually Albus, his marks have improved since last term. Irma has often said Mr. Potter has been in the library studying, alone or with friends, but has not caused a disturbance.” Minerva would have missed it if she was not actively looking, but she saw the frown and tightening of his grip on his goblet before he smoothed out his features and relaxed his grip.
“That is good to hear, Minerva; if you’ll excuse me, I have some things to see to.” Though he usually stayed for lunch, he wasn’t required as long as the Deputy and 2 other Heads of House were present; he sent a quick glare at Severus as the man seemed occupied by something at the Slytherin table. Another Slytherin, another Dark stain on his school. Once Riddle was gone Severus would be shipped off to Azkaban, possibly Kissed. The thought pleased him, and Albus quickly went to his office to inquire if the Weasleys were taking Harry in for the holiday.
Unlike the old man thought, his glare did not go unnoticed. Once lunch ended and the students left for classes or their study period, the teachers were free to go to their own offices.
Severus was setting up for his next class when a soft voice called, “Excuse me, Professor?”
In the door to his class was one of the third year Hufflepuffs, a girl by the name of Olivia Brighton, and he nodded to her to come in. “Miss Brighton, what can I help you with?” Hufflepuffs only received less hostility than Gryffindors because they at least treat the class with respect; well the older years anyway. However he refrained from his normal sneering as that would make the girl take longer to get to the point and he’d rather it done with quickly.
“Professor, why does the Headmaster glare at you? I’ve seen him do it often, usually during diner when it is so loud and chaotic; I think because he doesn’t believe anyone would notice.”
He blinked down at the girl; a Hufflepuff noticed the Headmaster glaring? Either the old man was slipping or he didn’t give them enough credit for being observant. “Miss Brighton I will impart to you something which many don’t completely realize. I am a Slytherin, not just the Head of House, and Slytherins are not favored by many. Unlike what many believe, the Headmaster does not like Slytherins either, and so the Headmaster doesn’t like me. I am the only Potion Master willing to work for him, and so he tolerates my presence; I’m sure if he found someone who was not a Slytherin and was as competent, I would be replaced.” Normally he wouldn’t be quite so blunt, but he wanted to see what this observant Hufflepuff would do when faced with the truth.
“Sir, I understand that you don’t care for the students not in Slytherin, but I don’t think his behavior is just. You have an unusual way of teaching and strict standards, but from what I’ve heard from my Aunt and older cousin, there have been less incidents in potions since you took over. I know you hear what the other students say, but I think you are the only teacher for this job. If we had a teacher like any of the other Professors, there would be many explosions, and many injuries; though sometimes…” She blushed, and the Professor raised an eyebrow for her to continue, “Sometimes I wish you would explain things better. Many of us don’t understand potions while we’re young, and your intimidating presence makes many of us who want to enjoy potions, shy away instead.”
He noticed the time and looked back at the girl, her blonde hair in braids and light brown eyes filled with an odd mix of concern, respect, and hope. Not often such a sight is directed towards him. “I did not realize there were those who enjoy potions but chose not to strive for it because their teacher intimidates them; however I shall think on it. Your concern of the Headmaster’s behavior is…appreciated, Miss Brighton. You should get to your class, I have a class coming in soon.” She softly gave a ‘yes sir, good day, sir’ before she left his class.
He sat back in his chair and thought; did he really make those students dislike potions so much they no longer find the subject fascinating? He often thought the students held no respect for the art of potion brewing, believing they were in two groups; the academics like Granger who study from books and go no further, or the ones who take the class because it’s necessary for their careers, like Weasley. Draco was the exception, of course, as his godson; Severus had made sure the boy respected the art and as a result had a young potions prodigy. However the other students don’t get such careful teaching…he pushed the thoughts to the back as his class began filtering in; he would discuss it later with Harry and Draco.
Draco, Harry, Hermione, Boot, and Finch-Fletchy were studying in the library, the two boys knew additions to their group.
“Harry,” Terry Boot had been thinking hard since they sat down, and it wasn’t about homework. He noticed the others were also looking at him, “Did you notice the look the Headmaster sent Professor Snape?” He still kept his voice quiet though they were in a far back table and no one else was around.
Harry nodded, “I did; you two are new to the group so don’t realize a few things. The Headmaster isn’t what everyone believes. He wants to keep the animosity towards Slytherin, and he’s already used a potion on me to try and change my behavior during the first month of term. It didn’t work for long, and I’ve refused food or drink he’s offered since, but I can’t trust him anymore. If it wasn’t for the fact I knew my opinion on Slytherins changed from hating them to trying to get to know them, I probably wouldn’t have noticed. It makes me wonder how often he’s done that in the past; and to whom else.”
The two boys sit in quiet contemplation while the other three get back to work; soon Justin Finch-Fletchy waves over a young girl also in Hufflepuff. “What’s wrong, Liv? Oh, this is my cousin, Olivia Brighton.”
She nodded to each before facing Justin, “Did you see the Headmaster before he left the Hall?”
Draco, Hermione, and Harry each looked at each other and then the young girl; she noticed too?
“You mean his face, the glare?” He nodded as she did, “We just spoke about it, why?”
“I spoke with Professor Snape, warned him about it. He said the Headmaster doesn’t like Slytherins and since the Professor is a Slytherin and not just their Head of House, the Headmaster doesn’t like him. It’s not right, Justin, and I’m worried. It reminded me of Uncle Clive.”
Justin hugged her, “I’m proud of you for speaking to Professor Snape about it. Just don’t get the Headmaster’s attention; I don’t know if he’s anything like Uncle Clive or not, but you’re better off not chancing it. Now go, you have Charms in two minutes and you’ll be lucky to not be late.” He watched her leave the library before he faced several curious gazes.
“Uncle Clive isn’t really a relative, but a one-time friend of her father’s. The man was mean, an abuser, and a pedophile. Clive used to glare at anyone who got too close to Liv, not because he feared for her safety, but because he was jealous and was worried she would tell. She did tell one day, I found her crying in the wardrobe; a report was filed but Clive hasn’t been found.”
“That’s horrible!” Hermione was close to tears, but it was held back by her anger towards such a despicable man.
“Let me guess, no person by the name he gave was known or found in records?” Draco snorted at Justin’s nod, “Doesn’t surprise me that ‘Clive’ wasn’t his real name. He could have also used a glamour so his face wouldn’t be recognized; I’d be careful of who she’s left with, Finch-Fletchy. It could be anyone, even family members, as atrocious as that sounds. How long ago was this?”
“Before she began Hogwarts. Do you think it would be someone so close to the family?”
“Justin, I’m curious, but whenever ‘Clive’ was around, where was her parents?” Harry looked into light blue eyes and saw them widen and fill with dread.
“Her mother was often home, but her father left to attend something; sometimes she would bring Liv and ‘Clive’ to our home, saying she had to go run some errands. It was during one of those times I found Liv. You don’t think…”
Harry nodded, “No one ever thinks it’s a family member and is usually the easiest to dismiss.”
“How do you know?” Terry Boot eyed the young man, those eyes spoke of knowledge.
“In the Muggle world, where Harry and I reside, things like that is often told to young kids to warn them of the dangers around them. It’s worse, though, because Muggles can’t use glamours to hide their identity, so those kids abused by their family know it.” Hermione frowned; a few things floating in her head.
“Well that makes catching them easier, right?” Justin looked between the two, and even Draco was shocked when both shook their heads.
“No, often the adult tells the child it’s their ‘secret’ and that no one would understand their ‘special playtime’ or whatever they call it, if they told. Sometimes the child is old enough to understand what the adult is doing is wrong, but their too ashamed to tell. Others feel too betrayed and don’t trust other adults to help; most times the only way the adult is caught is when they start approaching other children.” Harry ignores Hermione’s searching gaze and shrugs, “We had a counselor address the school about it one year in my Primary school. They heard there was a pedophile in the area and the police, the Muggle version of Aurors, needed help to find him. They suspected there was more than one, but they only caught the one.”
“So they had to rely on someone coming forward, or catching them going after another child? However being a wizard they most likely were using a glamour, we don’t have any real proof unless that person slips up somehow?” Justin sighed as Harry nodded, “Thanks for the information, Harry. If another ‘friend’ shows up and wants to spend time with Liv, I’ll keep my eyes on him.”
The group goes back to studying and soon the bell rings for next period. Hermione walked close to Harry and leaned over, “Harry…”
“Don’t ask, Hermione.” He quickly walked away; he knew she had suspicions, and knew any denial he would give she would see through it. However if he didn’t speak about it, she wouldn’t know who.
“Don’t press him, Hermione.” She faced Draco, wide eyed, “I know you’re concerned, but I picked up enough from what he said to realize a few things.” He stepped closer, “One of those things is that the halls are not the place for such a discussion.” He nodded at her abashed face and tugged her along to class.
The rest of the day went well, though Harry worried when Hermione drew him off to the side after diner. He was a bit relieved when she merely said if he ever wanted to talk, she’d listen. Of course he thanked her, but it’s not something he’d talk about…well maybe not to her. Or maybe he would, however he didn’t feel comfortable with it right now, so it doesn’t matter.
It was a few days later when Harry was called up to the Headmaster’s office; it had been a few months and Harry had enjoyed his peace. He went to knock, but was called in before he completed the motion.
“Harry, my boy, please have a seat. Lemon drop, tea?” Dumbledore smiled genially and motioned for him to sit in the seat across from him.
“No thank you, Headmaster.”
“Harry I have collected the sheets for the holiday and noticed your name wasn’t on there; did you forget, my boy?”
Harry fought to keep his face straight, he’s always hated it when Dumbledore called him ‘my boy’. “No Headmaster, I have plans for this holiday.”
Albus Dumbledore sat back a little and eyed the boy carefully, “Oh, did you accept the Weasleys invitation?” It was well known Molly Weasley always had an open invitation to Harry.
“No, Headmaster; I know Mrs. Weasley would love having me, but something else came up first. I have a few friends that I will be meeting with, if you must know, and already confirmed it with his Mum and Uncle.” Harry kept his eyes averted slightly, looking more over his right shoulder to keep from direct eye contact.
“Oh, who is this, Harry? Are you sure it’s not a trap by Tom or his Death Eaters, my boy?” Albus’ mind went to each person he could think of who Potter would want to spend time with.
“I’m sure, Headmaster; they despise Voldemort and his Death Eaters. They destroyed his family, Sir; his Dad was taken by them.” He left off any further information, knowing Dumbledore will assume the man was killed by Death Eaters. Lucius Malfoy had indeed been taken by Death Eaters, and they did destroy Draco’s family. However, it wouldn’t do to have the old fool realize this.
“I see…”
“If that is all Headmaster, I’d like to return to my common room; I have a few essays to write.”
“Of course my boy, though if anything changes you know you are welcome to stay at the castle.” Albus waved off the boy, a frown crossing his face as the door closed. There wasn’t many whose fathers had been killed by Death Eaters while the Mother lived that Harry would stay with. He couldn’t exactly refuse the boy from going, either. ‘Damn the brat; I’ll slip a tracking charm on the present I’ll give him.’ Dumbledore smiled and set to find a gift for Harry, perhaps something the boy will wear…perhaps a necklace under the guise of it being a portkey. Surely the boy won’t object to having a portkey for an emergency…yes that will work out perfectly.
Harry had a similar idea, though more as a gift for his friends. That weekend was a Hogsmead weekend, though there was still one more before the holiday, Harry visited a shop to have the items made. He got necklaces for them all, though for the males they were long enough to remain hidden beneath their shirts, though one of them he had a spell to make it invisible placed on it. The witch behind the counter said they all would be ready by the end of next week, and so he had them delivered by owl. Thanks to those catalogues Severus picked up for him when they went out a few months ago, Harry had not only updated his wardrobe, but bought a new trunk with more compartments and more books. He used the catalogs to buy the rest of his gifts, and after getting input from Draco, had a lovely dark blue cloak made with spider silk thread and matching gloves for his mother.
Soon it was time to leave, and Harry gave his gifts to Ron and Hermione to bring to the Weasley home and they gave him theirs. Ron was given Hedwig who was keyed into his wards and instructed on how to get the Weasley’s gifts to him. An hour before it was time to leave, he was called up to the Headmaster’s office and was shocked when both the Headmaster and Minerva was there.
“Headmaster, Professor McGonagall, how are you today?” It wouldn’t do to be rude.
“I’m well thank you for asking, my boy. It seems as if you are indeed leaving, and Professor McGonagall and I thought it best for you to receive our gifts since we do not know if they will reach you. Of course, you shouldn’t open them until Christmas…”
“Thank you sir, but you could’ve waited until after the holiday; I wouldn’t have minded.” He accepted the small box wrapped in red and gold wrapping paper with stars and snitches, complete with a…lemon yellow ribbon. That was obviously from Dumbledore; he withheld the shudder at such a garish ribbon.
“Nonsense, my boy, besides your gift has a few helpful charms if you need a quick way out.” Harry could easily guess it was a type of portkey, and he would have Cali check it for any other spells so he can remove ones he won’t want.
“Mr. Potter I do hope you have a pleasant holiday and remember that just because you are not in school, does not mean you should forget what you learned.” He recognized the quirk of her lips as a smile and nodded in return.
“Thank you Professor, I’m sure Hermione will send me books to keep my mind full of information.” They had a little more discussion, mostly Dumbledore fishing for information. He left the office and walked quickly to the Entrance Hall where he met up with Ron, Hermione, Draco, Neville and Astoria who was just saying her goodbyes and climbed into the carriage with her sister. Harry grinned at a blushing Neville and the small group climbed into the next carriage.
The train ride was pleasant and soon Harry waved goodbye to his friends and, not waiting for Draco’s father to arrive and catch him, ushered Draco through the exit Floo. They arrived in the parlor and Narcissa was waiting.
“Draco, I’m happy to see you; Harry you too.” She gave a small smile and kissed Draco’s cheek as he walked over to her.
Harry blushed as she did the same to him, but smiled as well. When Narcissa first arrived she was very cold and pleasant, now she was warm and welcoming and seemed much happier. “How have you been, Narcissa? I hope it hasn’t been unbearably dull.”
Narcissa chuckled, “No Harry, the Solarium has quite the assortment of plants, and with the temperature set for various regions I have been able to tend to them all. Your elves have been very accommodating and if I do not feel up to gardening, the library has more than enough books. I miss being able to go out and visit, but it is not something that bothers me too much.”
Harry nodded and called for Cali, “What can I do for you, Master Harry?”
“Please show Draco to his room, and can you check these gifts without them being opened? I want to make sure there are no tracking charms, compulsion spells, or anything that will harm, confuse, locate, or put me or anyone else under someone else’s command.” He passed over the packages as the elf nodded and saw the one from Dumbledore glow with various different colors.
“That box holds an item that has location and tracking charms, which I have already disabled, Master. It also has persuasion, confundus, compulsion, and a mental unblocking spell. I will remove those as well; do you also want me to remove the portkey and basic shielding spell?” Cali removed the other spells and looked at her master.
Narcissa and Draco were both in parts shocked and outraged, who would dare?! Harry was angry and was glad he had Cali doing this now.
“Can you tell where the portkey would bring me, Cali, and if it would allow more than just myself?”
“It’s set for the Headmaster’s office, word activated, and set for just yourself, Master.”
“Remove it and the basic shielding charm; in fact remove all spells from it, Cali and leave me a list of what was on it. I’ll replace them with my own later.” She does so and soon the box is no longer glowing; the other box had basic spells to allow ownership claim and Harry smiled as it gave away that it was a book. Minerva was predictable with that, almost like Hermione, but he waited to open it until Christmas; he noticed the two Malfoy’s faces and just sighed.
“Dumbledore gave me a gift he said to help me. He wasn’t pleased that I refused to tell him where I was going, so I had a feeling it was some type of tracking charm; he already used a compulsion potion on me once, so I wouldn’t put it past him to put some spells on his ‘gift’ to try and control me again.” He had Cali take the gifts and put them under the tree. He spent the day getting to know Narcissa and laughed at how she questioned Draco about his new girlfriend. He was worried for a moment on how she would respond to Hermione, but relaxed as she informed him she didn’t have the same views as her husband and Draco already told her about Hermione’s background.
That reminded Harry he still needed to finish compiling the letter and copy the results and so he spent the next few days getting that organized, running the letter past Draco a few times to make sure it only had the important information and the wording was right. He had just sent off his letter when Cali popped in telling him he had a guest in the parlor.
Smiling he walked into the room, “Severus, I’m glad you could make it!”
Severus gave Harry a small smile, “Harry again thank you for inviting me. It seems as if I can stay as there was no Slytherins who stayed at the school this year, if that is still alright?”
“Of course! Cali can you show Severus to a set of rooms he can use? After I’ll show you the potions lab, as I’m sure you’ll want to do some brewing, even during the holiday.”
Severus chuckled, “Yes and perhaps it can be relaxing this time.” He was led up the stairs and into a room that was bright and airy. The bed had just enough firmness for his liking but full enough he wouldn’t be poked by springs, the carpet was soft and luxurious, the walls were green with a white boarder, the curtains on both bed and windows were a sheer fabric but tinted a darker green. The bathroom was done in pale blues and whites with a sunken tub and shower stall, the toilet behind a partial wall, and the sink was a bowl with a silver tap. Severus unpacked his luggage and freshened up a bit before heading back downstairs. He smiled at Harry, “The rooms are spectacular, Harry, thank you.”
“I’m glad you like them; I wasn’t sure what you’d feel comfortable with and I didn’t want colors that made you uncomfortable. I thought it safe to stick with Slytherin and Ravenclaw shades, though maybe lighter. So, right, the lab.” Harry felt a blush creeping up and quickly walked ahead of Severus, showing him where the main room the tree was in, the dining room, and the greenhouse where some of the potions ingredients were before taking him downstairs. The lab itself was spacious with a long sturdy table, a rack for various stirring rods, two separate cutting boards-one for normal ingredients and one for the more volatile and acidic types. There were also plenty of cauldrons, of different types, and Severus’ eyes seem to gleam; he also saw there was another potion station not too far away, but far enough that another person could work and leave plenty of space between them.
“Harry this is magnificent! Has everything been cleaned properly yet?” Severus wanted to just jump right in, but if there was any dust, residual potions, or magic it would have to be taken care of first.
“Cali said they had done minimal cleaning of the cauldrons and such since they are not familiar with how they are properly cleaned. Garen,” another elf popped in, a male with a clean towel with the black crest. “Garen is willing to learn how to properly care for a potion workspace to ensure none of the equipment or ingredients are ruined. I figured if he was instructed by a Potion Master, things would be done to your approval.”
Severus nodded, “That is ideal; I also thought perhaps I could instruct you on potions in a more relaxed environment, if you’d like.” He felt the worry over his offer melt away at the pleased smile he was rewarded with.
“That would be great, thanks. I know you don’t really believe it, but I am quite interested in potions.”
Severus set up a schedule for Harry to come down and learn some advanced potions, since Harry did prove to have a talent for it, and Harry went back into the library to begin studying on other things.
Over the next few days Harry has learned a lot of things that wasn’t taught in Hogwarts and he even conversed with Theo, through the box, about some of the history of the wizarding world. All in all everything was going well and Harry was excited as Christmas was getting closer. The decorations were being set up, the presents were beneath the tree, and the elves showed Harry how to charm the greenhouses to look like they were snowing on the inside, when it was in fact just the normal water.
He enjoyed the time spent with Severus learning potions, especially since the man didn’t have to pretend to hate him and there was no one to toss random things in his cauldron. Severus was pleased to have an eager student, even more when Harry showed to have an intuition like his own about when certain things should be added. Severus was even more intrigued when Harry explained a potion he used after his visions, and it was a slightly better version of the anti-Cruciatus.
While spending even more time together, Severus had been trying to push down his desire. It began with showing Harry an easier way to crush the Mandrake roots to get the juice out but leave the pulp behind; holding Harry’s hands in his while rolling the mortar over a root. He could easily smell Harry’s soap and shampoo, a mix of cinnamon and vanilla, and feel the warmth that his body put out. Of course then came the time when he watched as one of Harry’s potions came out perfect and the smile that illuminated his face. It was little wonder when Harry reached up for a bottle that made him stretch on his tip toes, allowing his form fitting clothes to show off his figure, Severus nearly felt light headed as the blood all rushed south.
Severus made sure his rooms had silencing charms that night and decided to have a very thorough shower. He scrubbed his hair then his body, but he was so wound from the sight, and lack of any real pleasurable fantasies for so long, that he was soon shuddering as his fingers caressed his already engorged cock. He wanted to enjoy a fantasy, but merely thinking about Harry kneeling before him, wrapping his lips around the sensitive tip had him shooting out his essence with a hoarse shout quickly. He felt quite boneless and was glad Harry wasn’t there; he was embarrassed with how quickly he went. That night he dreamt of green eyes, pouty lips, and a firm body.
Harry had noticed Severus’ looks and fought not to press against him as Severus stood behind him to show how to properly crush those roots. He enjoyed a nice wank that night, envisioning those long pale fingers stroking his skin, that mouth with his thin lips kissing down his body, that vicious tongue licking his nipples, down his stomach, circling his shaft, before that mouth swallowed him whole. Watching as those silky black locks surrounded his pale face, his lips stretched around his thick cock, those dark eyes gleaming; he came as he envisioned Severus stroking his cock as he sucked on Harry.
The two felt aroused around each other, but kept it back, developing such sexual tension around them that soon Narcissa noticed. After quietly speaking with Draco, who had noticed in school the looks each would send to the other when they thought no one was looking, she had the elves hang up mistletoe in some of the rooms. She tried having some in the dungeon, but Severus had used that in one of his potions and Garen was told not to allow it to be hung there. Harry of course had no objections, though he hoped to take advantage of the sprigs in other parts of the house. He knew Severus had feelings for him, but he didn’t want to push the other man too quickly.
Christmas came and Draco and Harry were up early; it was normal for Harry to be up early but he was shocked to see Draco up before 10 during the holiday. Draco’s excuse was ‘It’s Christmas.’
Narcissa got some books and the cloak and glove set from Harry, some jewels and chocolates from Draco, and a bottle of wine from Severus.
Draco got a new pair of gloves, cloak, and scarf from Narcissa, a new potions kit and a few books from Severus, and a necklace and a new pair of Quidditch gloves from Harry. Harry explained the necklace had some protection charms and a portkey that would bring Draco to a secured room in the Manor should he have more than one signature with him. It was set to transport him either by password ‘Sky angel’ or if he was rendered unconscious. He also told him how to change the password if he chose to.
Severus received a new set of stirring rods, a new potion book recently updated, and a brass cauldron from Narcissa, a few rare ingredients and a new brewing robe from Draco, and a necklace, a new knife set, and brass scales from Harry. He had the same enchantments that Draco had, but his was also charmed to be invisible and his password was ‘Shadow hawk’ but could change that.
Harry got the usual gift from the Weasleys, the expected books from Hermione, a scarf and glove set from Narcissa, a warm waterproof cloak and a wand holster from Draco, and a potion bottle and a pendant from Severus.
“The potion is an eye correcting potion, its best to take it at night but anytime you will be laying down for 4 hours will do. The pendant you can put with the necklace you received from Dumbledore. It will glow blue if there is a spell coming at you or red if your food or drink is laced with a potion as you pick it up.”
“Thank you Severus; if no one has any complaints, I’d like to take the potion now and get used to not having glasses anymore.” No one had complaints and Severus said he would check on him in a few hours. 4 hours later Harry met with his houseguests for lunch and smiled.
Narcissa gushed at how beautiful his eyes were now, she had taken to Harry and enjoyed mothering him but he was pleased that she wasn’t as over bearing as Molly. Draco told him he’d have a hard time keeping the rain and such out of his eyes during Quidditch. Severus was pleased his potion was helpful, though he was personally please with how the removal of glasses enhanced Harry’s look.
The rest of the day was spent relaxing, Harry and Draco had a game of ‘Catch the Snitch’ in which Harry still won. Narcissa did some embroidery while the two boys played, and Severus read his book from Narcissa. The peace was disturbed after dinner when Severus was in the library reading; Harry was seated in the opposite chair reading when Severus’ book dropped and he hissed in pain. He knew what it was as he felt a dull throb from his scar.
“He’s angry, Severus, please be careful.” He watched as the other got up, “Severus,” he waited until Severus faced him, “wear the necklace, just in case.”
Severus pulled the chain out from under his shirt, though Harry couldn’t see it he could tell by the action Severus was already wearing it. “If he is angry, perhaps you should lay down somewhere.” He quickly left the room and gathered his cloak and mask. Narcissa and Draco saw him approaching the parlor, items in tow, and also wished him caution. Severus Flooed to his own home, dressed in his robes, and apparated.
He arrived in Malfoy Manor and quickly made his way to the throne room. Apparently word got out that Potter wasn’t at the school and neither was Draco. Both whereabouts were unknown and a few were punished. Lucius, because his son did not return and could not be called upon, Crabbe and Goyle because their sons were unable to keep track of the Malfoy heir, and Severus because he did not inform the Dark Lord that Potter and Draco were not at the school.
After the Dark Lord tried locating Draco, and being unsuccessful, he questioned Severus why that was. Severus admitted seeing Draco spend time with the Potter boy, but as Draco refused to let on to his tasks, Severus thought he was getting closer to the Boy-Who-Lived on his Lord’s orders. After giving orders to bring the Malfoy heir in for his punishment if found outside of school, Severus was punished for not informing him sooner.
By the time Severus left, it felt similar to how the meeting at the beginning of the year felt. He managed to apparate to his home without splinching himself, but collapsed upon arrival. His body was twitching too much to stand, much less try to grab Floo powder, but he knew he had to leave. Wormtail knew where he lived and who knew when that rat would show up. He grabbed his necklace, wondering if Harry had a premonition, before whispering the password.
Harry had woken up after Voldemort cast the last curse and swallowed his usual vials. He gathered some towels, anti-Cruciatus, healing, and pain relieving potions and waited. The wards would alert him if anyone arrived in their designated room by the necklace and it was almost an hour later that he felt the wards admit someone. He gathered the items he readied and was guided to Severus’ room. The man laid on the floor, body still twitching, he had managed to remove his mask but it didn’t go far. Harry knelt beside him and smoothed his hair away.
“Take this first, it’s the anti-Cruciatus.” Harry carefully poured the vial into Severus’ mouth, having Severus’ head in his lap to elevate him. He then gave him the pain potion, but asked if Severus needed the healing potion. He declined and Harry summoned a bowl of warm water and began cleaning the sweat and blood from his face. Once the two potions fully kicked in and Severus stopped shaking, Harry helped him stand and get into bed, changing his robes and clothes for pajamas. He cleaned up the used towel and the bowl but sat beside Severus’ bed; he had another pain potion in case the man needed it during the night.
Severus woke the next morning feeling a bit sore but happy that was all. He sat up and froze; there curled up in a chair was Harry sleeping. He recalled the young man once more helping him after a vicious meeting and was glad Harry was nothing like his father. He stood and walked over, brushing a strand of hair out of his face. He caught sight of something above him and smiled; he leaned forward and pressed his lips to Harry’s full and soft lips.
Harry woke to someone brushing his hair out of his face, but his eyes opened feeling a pair of lips on his. He saw Severus’ face and his eyes fluttered closed again; he flicked his tongue out and shuddered as Severus gave a soft moan.
Severus felt the tongue and moaned, he pulled back and looked at a flushed face and darkened green eyes. He gave a soft smile and pointed up, “Mistletoe.”
Harry saw the small sprig and smirked, “Well, mustn’t let it go to waste.” Before Severus could question, Harry pulled him back down and kissed him properly. His hand threaded into those silky black locks and moaned as his tongue brushed against Severus’.
Severus shuddered as he finally got to taste the young man’s mouth, hearing that moan made his cock hard and he fought to keep control. He slowly pulled back, giving small pecks along the way. “We shouldn’t go too far too quickly, Harry. You still have school, I am still your professor, and with what must happen in a few weeks…”
Harry sighed, “I know; I wish you’d let me remove that Mark, but I understand you made a Vow and must complete it. Have you already stored your memories of that day?”
Severus sat back on his bed, “I have though that would not prevent others from doubting or even attempting to have me Kissed by a Dementor on sight.”
“Then when Voldemort’s dead, stay here until I can clear your name or at least get you a trial set with Vertiserum. Draco no longer has the Mark, but his father does; he can take over the Malfoy Lordship and that will be three votes in your favor. Neville has already claimed his Lordship which will give us another; if Ron is going to accept his great-Grandfather’s teachings then he will eventually claim the Weasley Lordship title.”
“I wasn’t aware the Weasley’s had a Lordship.” Severus looked confused, not a look he had often, and Harry thought it was quite cute…though he would never say that.
“There are, of course, stipulations to be able to take on the title. I believe it has something to do with the feud between the Weasley branch Ron belongs to and the Malfoy family; by denouncing the family member who was responsible for the feud, Ron has passed that stipulation. It doesn’t require him to disown or renounce his current family, but as the only available Weasleys to be passed the title is Ron or Ginny, Ron has decided to accept the tasks. Ginny may be given the title of Lady Prewett by their great-Aunt.”
Severus nodded, “That would indeed be fortuitous, however if it got around that you were protecting me, your votes would be cast out. If they gave me Vertiserum and asked if any member of the Wizengamot gave me shelter I would have to admit you did; it would be best if I remained hidden and let no one know where I was. Then if they asked I could say no.”
Harry sighed and hung his head, “You are correct, but maybe…”
“No Harry,” he pulled the chair closer and scooted forward, placing his legs outside of Harry’s and leaned forward, cupping Harry’s cheek in his hand. “If you are unaware of where I am then doubt cannot be cast upon you. I will be safe, when the time comes, and no one can be charged for harboring me during that time, or have their votes put into question.”
“Will you at least allow me to remove your Mark after you have done the task?” Harry held Severus’ hand in his.
“I cannot, Harry, for the Dark Lord will wish to still summon me. If I do not have the Mark, he will question me, and then either kill me or torture me until I have gone insane or died. I will find a way to keep in contact with you and we can arrange a meeting before it comes time for you to destroy the Dark Lord. However if you get the chance before then, do not hesitate. Please Harry,” Severus continued before Harry could interrupt, “Do not pass upon the chance if you have it; I will fight to survive but I refuse to live in a world where he wins because you waited too long.”
“Fine, I won’t hesitate if I find an opportunity; but you better survive, Severus.” He got up and kissed Severus fiercely. Severus’ arms wrapped around Harry, his hands roaming down his spine to rest around his waist. Harry pulled back just enough to where his lips were barely touching Severus’, “I will be very upset if I lost you.” He kissed the stunned lips and left to the door, “Breakfast will be ready soon, Severus; I’m sure Draco and Narcissa will be relieved to know you’re alright.” He left, making his way to his own room to shower and dress.

Severus remained on the bed for a few minutes longer, Harry’s words echoing in his head and setting a fluttering feeling in his stomach. His lips still tingled from the kiss, his shaft gave a throb with just the memory of feeling those lips on his, Harry’s body in his arms. He quickly took a shower, but after letting the cold water pour on his heated flesh with no lowering of his libido, he turned it up hotter and decided to solve his current problem with his hand. Part of him wished to just jump in bed with Harry, but he wouldn’t, not yet. There was still so much that had to be done first, but if he managed to survive, if they both did, Severus would give up his excuses even if he had to resign from teaching. After this war, Harry would be his…and he would be Harry’s.
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Giving A Chance