Gooey Melting Hearts | By : Blackkitten23 Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male Views: 24984 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 6 |
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The young Potter was hopeful. Sirius managed to get some chocolate, but James didn’t feel right about sending another cranky owl. He kept the chocolate and hoped the owls would calm down ...
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“You’ve healed a good deal in two weeks.” Mathias praised as he reviewed the results his spell produced after it scanned Severus. “I think we can ease off on the advanced nutrition potions. I’d say only every other day now. That should greatly help when it comes to any dizziness and tiredness.”
Severus nodded clearly a bit relieved, “That’d be nice. I’d like to go a full day without falling asleep.” He said and couldn’t help but smile at his grandfathers who were sitting on the couch across from him and the healer. The old wizards looked very happy at the news.
Lucius shrugged, “I don’t see the problem. You looked adorable hanging off the couch yesterday.” He snickered completely ignoring the pouty glare Severus sent him.
Nicholas chuckled at the cute exchange before turning to the healer, “How long should this potion routine continue? It’s a while away, but I want to know in case we need to make arrangements for him during the school year.”
“I’d say he’d benefit greatly from a solid three months. It will help the healing of your bones if you want to do that correction next year. However, Hogwarts isn’t great with keeping up with that … nor are they great with notifying St. Mungo’s in truly serious circumstances.” Mathias muttered.
Sebastian scoffed, “We noticed, but we just got word from Minerva McGonagall and Horace Slughorn. There’s going to be some changes and a better infirmary staff is part of it. There won’t be any problems arranging that.”
Mathias smiled, “That is good news. The potions will continue through the first few weeks of school then. Of course, dizzy spells will need to be watched out for. Hogwarts has far more stairs than I’d be happy with so definitely discuss the possibility of having an escort take you to each class. Other than that I think we are good for now. I’ll see you in two weeks unless you have any concerns.”
Severus nodded, “Thank you.” He said and the healer flooed away.
“So no potions for today. I should put a reminder in the runes.” Nicholas said and quickly went to the metal brackets holding up the shelf.
Lucius looked fascinated at the way the leaf moved and actually made the words ‘potions tomorrow’ appear on the surface, “Severus explained it to me, but it’s so much more interesting in person. I can’t find records on anything like that. I only found an old account of something that was a mini floo run by a candle, but that was weak and eventually became today’s floo network. It, however, didn’t take notes.”
“It was a wedding gift from my father.” Nicholas said with a nostalgic smile. “He loved tinkering with runes.”
Sebastian, however, shivered in fear, “He wanted to make sure Nicholas was properly protected since I wasn’t a toughened duelist.”
Nicholas rolled his eyes in amusement, “Papa meant well even if he came off a little scary.” The old wizard pulled a pocket watch out of his pocket and opened it to show Severus a picture of a rather tall burly man with tattoos standing between a younger Nicholas and Sebastian, albeit Sebastian looked a little tense. However, the guy did seem to have a strong hand on Sebastian’s throat unlike the other strong arm, which held Nicholas lovingly around the shoulders. “He would’ve loved you.” Nicholas said with a smile.
“Even if I’m not a duelist either.” Severus commented even though he couldn’t help but smile at the big man. It was obvious that the old wizard passed years ago when a slight sad, yet nostalgic, look flickered through Nicholas’ eyes, but it made him happy to learn more about the family he never knew.
Nicholas chuckled, “Papa just liked giving Sebastian a hard time. Keeping him on his toes as he always said.”
Sebastian huffed, “Fred wanted to give me a heart attack not a hard time.” He mumbled only earning more chuckles from Nicholas. “You can’t deny that Fred hated stuffy old families and the Princes were one of them … admittedly I liked that. He scared my controlling mother after she made you quit dueling.”
Lucius smiled, “Sounds like a guy who would’ve scared the Malfoy family … or maybe he would’ve laughed when he saw the state of our current rat infested manor.” He muttered.
Severus raised an eyebrow in concern, “Rat infested? Did the house elves your father abuses finally rebel or something?” Severus asked wryly.
“The rat appeared not long after our guest showed up so my best guess is that it’s a spy … or someone he’s torturing. I can’t really mess with it either way or I might become the target.” Lucius said as he shrugged. “What do you want to do now that you have some relief from your potions? Brewing? Raiding Honeydukes?” Lucius teased, effectively ignoring the glare Severus threw him for poking fun at the younger wizard’s love of chocolate.
“Actually I was hoping to go back to the Crock & Pestle.” Severus said though wasn’t sure he’d be allowed. It wasn’t his grandfathers that worried him. It was Lucius who will either try to talk him out of it or tag along just to scare James.
“That would be fun. You didn’t get a good chance to look around last time.” Nicholas said with a smile.
Sebastian nodded, “and considering some theories we were talking about it’d be a good chance to see what things would enhance your project. Especially a different cauldron. I think you’re right in thinking a unique cauldron will help.”
Lucius smiled innocently, “I’ll help-“ he suddenly gripped his left forearm in pain worrying the three other wizards there.
“Luc!” Severus exclaimed as he touched his friend’s shoulder comfortingly.
After taking a few breaths Lucius recovered enough to stand, “Sorry. As much as I’d like to give Potter a glare it seems I’m being summoned.”
“That’s probably lucky for Potter considering I’m sure you’re lying about only giving him a glare.” Severus said dryly, earning a laugh from the Malfoy, but the second Lucius flooed away Severus frowned, “Is there any way to get him out of that?”
Nicholas sighed, “It’s complicated with the mark on him and there are other of your friends involved. We need the right moment to help.” He mused making it clear that they aren’t giving up. “Patty might have some thoughts on the matter.”
“That’s an even better reason to go. Do we need anything else?” Sebastian asked and he tapped his chin in thought. “Oh right. Professor Slughorn did respond. I was going to say something, but that’s when Mathias arrived. He, by the way, was horrified about the lack of care Remus had and he’s working with Professor McGonagall to fix that. As for you, while he wishes you said something about the bullying he understands why you didn’t. He wants to make this an easier year for you and he’s starting by giving you an early list of classes. Professor Slughorn hoped it’d help you to have it early so, if you’re well enough, you can look ahead and won’t have to study as during school. He’s also looking into someone to walk with you while you’re on the potions.”
Severus nodded slowly, “It’d be good to start early … am I in trouble for brewing potions or going out after curfew?”
“Technically you aren’t involved.” Sebastian shrugged as both his grandson and his husband looked at him skeptically. “I sent the information about Remus to the goblins, not the professor. They handled it and without saying anything about who or why they know. They managed to contact Remus personally through Patty and implied that it was part of the investigation and that story made it to the professors. No one knows you took care of Remus or brewed at night and I had the goblins ask if you could keep potions on your person. That was allowed, just don’t let anyone see anything beyond pain relievers in your bag.”
Nicholas rolled his eyes in amusement, “You couldn’t betray a fellow potion lover, could you?” He commented as Sebastian handed Severus the list of things.
“Nope. Besides, Severus was doing what he thought was right and we can’t really fault him for that.” Sebastian said, though he knew his husband didn’t care about the lack of punishment this time. After all, Severus has been through enough for now.
“Yes … just promise me you’ll be careful.” Nicholas said seriously as he looked his grandson in the eyes.
“I will.” Severus remarked feeling happy that someone cared so much other than Lucius. However, he frowned when he looked back at that list. “I’m going to need a lot of textbooks.” He commented wondering if he’ll have trouble carrying them at school. One dizzy spell while holding a heavy book could end badly.
Nicholas smiled, “We’ll figure it out.” He said somehow knowing exactly what Severus was thinking. “Let’s go!”
XXXXXXXXXX
The manager of Flourish and Blotts, Paul, just groaned as the book-loving nut kept piling up the books she was getting ready to buy. Sure, it was great for business, but she was blocking everyone else and being a bit snobbish about it. It was like she actually thought that nobody’s time mattered more. He was actually happy that she disappeared into the back to search for more books. That gave him a chance to help the few other patient customers while she wasn’t there to whine.
“Thank you for being patient.” Paul said with a smile as the last patient customer paid for their books and left before the entitled witch came back. “Good day, Nicholas, Sebastian! How can I help you all?”
Nicholas let Severus hand over the list, “Severus here needs these textbooks. Would that be a problem? It’s early to buy everything for the school year, I know.”
Paul hummed each time his eyes skimmed an item on the list as if mentally checking them off, “You’re in luck. I can get you each book right now, but a couple are used. Does that matter? I know people don’t like notes already being scribbled on their textbooks.”
Severus shook his head, “It’s ok. I’m used to that.” He said, but when Paul quickly left to gather the books Severus noticed the curious look on his grandfathers’ faces. “I never had my own books before. My housemates had a system.” He whispered, making it clear he always shared with other Slytherins until now.
“I didn’t even think of that.” Nicholas murmured as he realized Ellen probably didn’t spend any money on Severus beyond clothes. Another thing occurred to him as he was looking at his husband. “Sebastian, didn’t you tell me when you first confronted Ellen she didn’t use a wand?” He asked his husband who nodded. Nicholas looked back at Severus, “Your wand looked familiar … is it your mother’s?” He asked thinking back to the day Sebastian first brought Severus’ things home.
Severus hesitated for a moment before finally nodding, “Yes.” He said sadly, “should that be another stop?” The young wizard asked, feeling a little guilty for making this quick trip so much bigger than it needed to be.
“Of course!” Nicholas exclaimed just as Paul returned with the books they needed. “It’ll be a quick stop then we can go to the Crock & Pestle.”
“Where the hell is the special edition- finally! This place has a terrible system! I can’t find anything!” Some witch yelled from the back of the store. Severus thought he recognized the voice, but that couldn’t be right. Lily was never rude or entitled so Severus brushed the thought away.
Paul rolled his eyes as he shrank the books, “I’ve had two year olds find things just fine.” Paul muttered just loud enough for Nicholas, Severus and Sebastian to hear, which made them smirk in amusement. “Thank you for your purchase! Have a good day!” He said after taking the coins Nicholas gave him.
Sebastian scoffed as Nicholas put the tiny books into his pocket, “You too, Paul.” He said as he shot a scowl towards the rude witch whose face couldn’t even be seen over the stack of books she was carrying. “Let’s go.” He hissed and ushered his husband and grandson out.
One, he really didn’t want Severus to be stressed out by that kind of person or the drama their kind brings. Two, he didn’t want him or Nicholas to scold the witch. If she kept talking they definitely would’ve said something and this really should be a nice shopping trip.
‘You know, the Wry Wand should be open now.” Sebastian pondered out loud. “Would you like to get your wand there? It is in Knockturn Alley.”
“Ok.” Severus said eagerly.
“Very well.” Nicholas chuckled knowing full well that the potion lovers just wanted to be closer to the Crock & Pestle.
As an added bonus the process at the Wry Wand was faster and more accurate than Ollivanders. The trio just walked in and was greeted by a beautiful shop that was filled with rows of glass display cases. Inside the cases were perfectly placed wands that rested on white cushions. As they approached the counter, which had only a box on it and a young 7 year old girl behind it. That did seem odd until they saw an older woman restocking the holsters off to the side.
The busy woman popped up, “One second-ah!” She yelped as a holster jumped up and tried to bite her. “Anti-theft charms are getting a bit extreme.”
“I’ll help, Aunty Bubbles!” The young blonde girl in overalls and a black t-shirt said happily. She rushed to get a step stool and stepped up so she could see over the counter. “Hello! I’m Penny, how can I help you today?” She said as if she’s heard someone else say it many times before.
Severus could not stop his smile, “I’m here for a wand.”
“Ok!” She practically cheered as she eagerly lifted the box, which turned out to be a cover to protect the glass orb embedded in the countertop. “Please place your dom- … do-min-ant hand on the orb.” She said sweetly, despite having a little trouble saying the word ‘dominant’ she was very excited to help.
“Like this?” Severus placed his hand on the orb. The orb glowed and that light disappeared. Suddenly a light ran along the glass of each case.
Penny beamed as the light stopped on a separate case, which was the only one with stained glass, in the far back, “Yay! I get to open the stained glass one!”
“You’ll need this!” Bubbles said and pulled a key off her necklace. Unfortunately, as the key flew over to Penny the holsters made a break for it and slithered away. “Oh no you don’t! Get back here! I’m stocking you, not stealing you!” She yelped as she tried to grab the surprisingly fast holsters without getting bitten.
After wondering if she should help her aunt, the key tapped her hand and Penny remembered her current task. The young girl hopped off the step stool and carried it to the back with the little gold key flying right behind her. Since Nicholas volunteered to help Bubbles round up the holsters Severus stopped worrying and watched the little girl.
With great care Penny returned with her stool and a long wooden box, which was balanced on the stool, “Go back to Aunty, little key.” She said and the key flew back to its original place as Penny put the classy wooden box on the counter. When she got on the stool she eagerly opened the box revealing the beautiful wand and pulled a card out of her overall pocket. “This wand is a 13 inch shaft of magic infused bamboo dipped in whomping willow sap. It has a core made of thunderbird feathers and runespoor venom. The suggested wand wax is coconut oil and it comes with a self repair box!” She exclaimed, putting the card down and opening a drawer to pull out a jar of the recommended wax.
“Thank you.” Severus said as he carefully picked up the richly colored wand that looked like the wood was twisted considering the grain wrapped around in a spiral i pattern. The second he had the wand in his hand it glowed warmly.
“Wow!” The awestruck little girl beamed, but she was so focused on the glow that the sound of the holster display case was slammed shut. “Oh right! Would you like a shoulder or calf holster?” The little girl asked innocently, but quickly regretted it when she saw the terrified look on her Aunty’s face. “Maybe not one of the new anti-theft ones.” She suggested sweetly as the holster case could be heard shaking even though her aunt was holding the case closed.
Severus frowned, “A shoulder holster …”
Nicholas came back from the other side of the counter where he helped gather the holsters, “A classic faux dragonhide holster will do.”
“Thank you!” Bubbles gasped as she opened the display case next to the one that contained the nasty holsters. “We have dark brown, stone gray and black ember.”
“Dark brown.” Severus said, but his sharp eyes spotted something terrifying. “They’re getting out!”
Bubbles eyes widened and she immediately dove on the display case, which was being nudged open by the holsters! “I swear we don’t normally have this much holster trouble. I think the maker responsible for these went overboard.” She chuckled sheepishly as she desperately hugged the case closed.
“It’s ok, Aunty. I’ll ring them up!” Penny said as she went over from behind the counter and gently picked up the chosen holster, “Would you like anything else?” She asked happily as she placed the holster on the counter.
Severus shook his head, “No, thank you.”
The young girl put the price card for each item in the register and told them the total, “Thank you! Have a nice day!“ She exclaimed sweetly as she took the coins they gave her.
Nicholas smiled as he helped Severus put the holster on, which was fairly simple with the magic straps, “You too.” He said and they left the store. “Oh I hope they figure out that holster issue.” The old wizard said while subtly removing his wand as they, yet again, passed some unsavory people who were looking too closely at Severus for Nicholas’ liking. “I’ll go chat with Patty while you two have fun.” Nicholas chuckled as the potion lovers eagerly took floating baskets.
“Ok! Hi, Patty!” Severus smiled politely to the apothecary owner who waved at him. She clearly looked happy to see him and though he wanted to chat with her he wanted his grandpa to talk to her about Lucius even more.
While sticking close to his grandfather Severus moved through the shelves. The knowledge that James, Sirius and Remus were in there somewhere made him a little uneasy, but a part of him wanted to see them. The main thing he wanted to do was talk to James about the letter he sent not long after the first time Severus went to the Crock & Pestle. Despite being so tired at the time Severus remembered the letter quite clearly …
Dear Severus,
I know now that I’m an idiot for everything I did and the more I think of it the more obvious it becomes that saying sorry isn’t enough. I really shouldn’t have had to overhear you and Lucius to start understanding that, but I did need that. After everything that I did i wouldn’t blame you if you don’t believe me, but I promise I will behave from now on. No, not just for when the summer or school is done. I won’t be an ass again and if you want maybe we could try being friends? If it helps Remus is serious about keeping me and Sirius in line so you don’t have to worry. The Marauders are on leashes. Whether you want to be friends or not please take care and get better.
From
James Potter
It seemed genuine and made Severus want to respond. Unfortunately, he wasn’t feeling well the last couple weeks, but really that wasn’t what stopped him from responding to the letter. Put simply Severus just didn’t feel right about just writing a letter. In this situation it only felt right to talk to the Potter in person.
“4 ripened slugs?” Severus lit up when he heard a familiar voice and peeked around the shelves. There, just two shelves over, was James. “How do I know they're ripe?” Severus saw that James looked up away from the jar in his hand and in the direction Patty was, but Patty was, of course, busy talking to Nicholas.
Severus decided to take this chance to help and walked over, “The slugs with white spots are ripe.” He said almost pleased that James hasn’t turned around to face him yet.
“White spots Huh?” James pulled off his glasses to look closer at the slimy things in the jar. “Oh! There are white spots. Never noticed that before. Thanks-“ James’ started saying, but he when turned to look at the helpful person and his jaw dropped. “Severus? Are you well enough to be walking around?” He asked, almost dropping the jar in his shock.
Severus’ hand caught the jar, “Yes, the healer checked me today and I’m getting better. You seem to be the one who needs to be careful.” Severus said dryly as he took James’ hand and put the jar in it.
“Yeah, I guess so. I’m really only graceful on a broom. If I rely on my own limbs I’m doomed.” James said jokingly, but he was surprised when his heart started fluttering as his fingers brushed against Severus’ slender fingers. “You look a lot better.” James said almost nervously. He figured it was the potions Severus was taking because he never noticed the cute pink shade to Severus’ lips before.
Severus nodded, “I feel much better.”
“Yeah.” Once James realized he was staring at Severus’ lips he tore his gaze away. “I … wait here! I have something for you!”
The young Prince heir blinked, “He ran off … and with a jar of slugs.” He commented curiously.
Sebastian stepped out from behind the shelves, “Hope he doesn’t fall over. Patty won’t be happy if he drops that.” Sebastian looked at his grandson before looking up to see James running back. “You need to be careful.”
James gulped as he looked at the stern old wizard with a long braid of white hair, “Sorry, sir!” With a sheepish smile he gave some chocolates over to Severus. “I hope you like these … I should get back to work.” James said despite not really wanting to leave.
“Of course. Thank you.” Severus said as he looked at the Honeydukes dark chocolate in his hands. “That went … calmer than I expected.”
Sebastian hummed, “That’s the best result really. Shall we check out the more obscure cauldrons?” He asked and once Severus placed his chocolate in his pocket they went to explore.
Only Nicholas and Patty noticed the dark silhouette of someone pressed against the front window, “Either come in or stop fogging up my window, young lady!” Patty huffed and finally the person came inside ...
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