snarryhols (snarryhols) wrote in snarry_holidays, @ 2007-11-22 08:55:00 |
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Entry tags: | au: magic, fic, rated: nc-17 |
My True Love Gave to Me, for triceybabe
Title: My True Love Gave to Me
Author: sweetmelodykiss
Giftee: triceybabe
Word Count: 9552
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Snape/Potter
Warnings: None, no spoilers, little canon, Rimming, Light Bondage, Bottom Snape
Disclaimer: I do not own them. No harm intended
Summary:Can Harry show a lonely professor that Christmas is special? Well he has 10 days to prove it. 10 days of something different... either a different gift, or a different event. Slowly, Harry shows Snape that Christmas is special... and that he is too.
Author’s Notes: I changed this to twelve days, triceybabe. I hope you don’t mind. I ignored the last two books. Ok, I pretty much ignored all the books.
My True Love Gave to Me
It had been eight years since Harry Potter had set foot inside of Hogwarts. He’d spent five years training to be a Medi-Wizard, one year at St. Mungo’s doing his internship, and two years studying abroad to get his Master of Wizarding Healing, leaving very little time for anything else.
To be back at Hogwarts was amazing, humbling and terrifying all at once. Minerva was the reason for his return. She needed a Medi-Wizard to take over for Madam Pomfrey as the older witch was retiring. She could’ve had anyone, but she wanted Harry. He was a gifted Healer and she missed having him around.
Harry had kept up with Ron and his wife Luna. He was looking forward to seeing them now that he was back in Scotland. Hermione was somewhere in Bavaria, but he wasn’t sure where. He hadn’t heard from her in almost a year, but he hoped she would return soon as well.
He hummed a happy tune as he went through the stores of his new infirmary. It was Friday and he was going to Ron’s this evening for dinner. Harry was decidedly nervous as he supposed Ron was still pissed at him for not marrying his sister.
At seventeen, Harry had an epiphany. He had no interest whatsoever in marrying a witch—a wizard maybe—but definitely not a witch. Still, Ron just didn’t see it that way. He’d tried everything short of standing on his head to convince Harry that he really should marry Ginny. Harry politely told Ron to get stuffed and the two didn’t speak to each other for almost six months.
That was years in the past, though and Ron certainly must have matured by now. However, Harry remained doubtful, but on the bright side, Ginny was married to someone else.
‘Thank the gods,’ Harry thought to himself.
Returning to his quarters, Harry showered, shaved and groomed himself. His clothes looked good though, even if his hair was in disarray. Harry had a lover while he was abroad that taught him how to dress and he greatly appreciated his expertise more than he appreciated him as a lover.
Harry had only been with two men in his life. The sex had been brilliant, but the emotional connection wasn’t there. Harry found he just couldn’t commit to either one of them, and now he knew why. He was in love, had been in love for years now, and had been pining away for a lost love. Too bad that his dream lover hated him from the very depths of his soul. Harry’s snarky former potions professor had thoroughly denounced him and argued against his return to Hogwarts. The man was never one to keep his opinions to himself, and he was definitely not happy to have to work with Potter. Harry wasn’t surprised.
Harry tried to hold a civil conversation with the man on several occasions, but Snape would always cut him off or make some snide remark that would put Harry instantly on the defensive. What was it about this man that got under his skin so? Severus had been very distant after the war—not only just to him but also to everyone else. Minerva had filled him in on all the things he missed over tea one rainy afternoon.
Severus Snape was an enigma. He’d saved Harry’s life several times, yet never uttered a kind word to him. Harry never understood why Severus had bothered saving his life if he hated him so.
Harry put his musings aside for the moment. After all, he had a dinner engagement to keep. Flinging on his cloak, Harry made his way to the outer gates and apparated away with a pop.
He arrived at the Burrow five minutes early and took a deep breath before knocking on the door. A grinning Ron greeted Harry and ensnared him in a huge bear hug. Harry smiled; it felt like old times.
"God, mate. It’s good to see you. Come on in and have a pint. Luna’s got dinner almost ready. You need to tell me everything that’s been going on in your life. Start at the beginning and don’t stop until you’ve finished." Ron told him.
"Well, I’m afraid it’ll be very short. I mostly just studied and worked and that’s about it," Harry stated.
"Sit down and relax. I’ll get you that pint and pop into the kitchen to see how Luna’s doing with dinner. She tends to burn things every now and then if you don’t keep an eye on her," Ron winked as he went into the kitchen.
Ron returned with drink in hand and Luna in tow. She hugged Harry fiercely. She was as beautiful as Harry had remembered. Harry had always thought that Ron would eventually marry Hermione, but that never came to be. Ron seemed to be happy with his odd wife and Harry was glad. They were a perfect match, in Harry’s opinion.
"How are things going Harry? You look a bit weary, or maybe it’s only a small heartache. Don’t be sad. Everything will work out for the best. Just be persistent and gentle. If you’re too aggressive thoroughbreds tend to spook and we can’t have that now can we?" Luna smiled at Harry who was shaking his head trying to make sense out of what she’d just said.
"What are you nattering on about, Love. You’ve completely lost me," Ron asked.
"Oh, never mind, dear. Harry understands and that’s all that matters. Come along. Dinner is ready and we don’t want it to get cold," Luna said, skipping into the dining room.
Harry guessed he probably did understand. Luna always made sense in her total obscurity and her ridiculous absurdity. That’s what Harry loved about her.
Dinner went well, but Harry was anxious to get back to Hogwarts. Ron had only asked about his love life fifty times or so while Harry valiantly tried to explain that he didn’t have time for a love life. Luna merely smiled knowingly at these exchanges. Harry knew what she was thinking and it was a scary thought.
With goodbyes said and hugs all around, Harry eagerly returned to Hogwarts. As he entered the main foyer, he ran into Snape who was lurking in the hallway. Harry found it strange that he was down in the main entrance hall at this time of night.
"Ah, Mr. Potter. I see you still have the habit of gallivanting around at all hours of the night," Severus sneered.
"Er… yes, I was with Ron and Luna. They invited me to dinner, if you must know. I might ask you the same question. What are you doing down in the foyer this late? Is everything alright?"
"Quite," if Snape hadn’t known better, he’d have thought Potter was actually worried about him.
"I was merely investigating a disturbance at the gates, but it seems it was only you," Snape said with disdain.
"I’m sorry. I didn’t realize that I’d made so much noise, but since we’re both up, would you like to join me in my quarters for a drink?" Harry asked, already knowing the answer.
"Certainly not, Potter. I have no intentions of wasting my time drinking swill in your quarters," Severus told him.
"Well then, good night, Severus," Harry softly said.
Snape glared. He’d never given Potter permission to use his fist name. The sheer audacity of Potter’s presumptuousness did not warrant a response. Whirling around, Severus glided off toward the dungeons, muttering to himself the entire time.
Harry couldn’t help the laughter that spilled from him. It was all so fucking hopeless. Christmas was less than two months away and it looked like this one was going to be as bleak as all the rest had been. Harry didn’t know what made him think about Christmas. The only happy one he’d ever had was his first year at Hogwarts. All the rest had been forgettable. Harry was just so damn tired of being alone. Just once, he’d like to wake up curled next to someone else on Christmas morning. He needed someone with whom to share his life. That’s when the stray thought struck him.
‘Maybe that’s what Severus needs too.’
~~~~~~
Twelve days until Christmas and Harry had a plan. He wasn’t sure it would work, but it was worth a shot. He’d been gradually breaking the ice with Severus. Harry was always courteous with him, no matter what the man said. He’d even managed to get Severus to have that drink with him on one occasion.
On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Snape entered his quarters after a difficult day of classes. He was startled to find a bright red, metallic gift bag sitting on his coffee table. He immediately checked his wards for intruders. Whoever had gotten into his quarters was very clever and very powerful. Minerva couldn’t even break his wards and she was Headmistress. The only person inside Hogwarts that could break his wards was Potter.
Snape relaxed marginally at this thought, but he still approached the gift cautiously. The bold tag on the front read, "Open Now!"
Snape opened the bag and brought out a bottle of expensive red wine. Wrapped around the bottle were a set of solid gold nipple clamps, studded with pavé diamonds.
Snape gasped and sat the bottle down. He reached back into the bag and pulled out a card. He was stunned, it had to be a joke, but who would spend this much money on a joke. Severus read the card again aloud just to see if he could make any sense of it.
Dear Severus,
Please except this gift as a token of my deepest affection. I hope that you will share this bottle of wine with me on Christmas Eve. I have other gifts in store for you—this one is just the first. Consider this my inept attempt at courtship.
Yours Always,
Harry J. Potter
Severus Snape always prided himself on his iron-clad control, but control be damned, this was just too much.
Snape stormed out of his chambers and headed straight for a confrontation with one Harry James Potter. If this were Potter’s idea of a joke, Snape would assure him that he was not amused.
The pounding at his door made Harry smirk. Severus was right on time.
Snape took in a sharp breath as the bane of his existence opened the door dripping wet and wearing nothing but a towel. Potter was still toweling his hair when he looked up and met black, angry, aroused eyes.
"Um, Severus, I wasn’t expecting you or I would have dressed for the occasion," Harry muttered, ducking his head so the older man wouldn’t see his smile.
Snape pushed his way into Harry’s quarters and shook the note in his face, "What is the meaning of this? Do you think me an idiot, Potter, someone to be toyed with and made a fool of for your amusement?"
Severus was incensed.
"I assure you I am nobody’s fool," Snape growled with righteous indignation.
"You didn’t like the gift?" Harry pouted.
Severus was somewhat blindsided by the hurt look in Harry’s eyes. This situation couldn’t be real. It had to be a joke. If it was real, all of Severus’s dreams were about to come true and he wasn’t sure he could handle it.
Severus held steadfast, "I don’t think you are one bit funny, Potter. Courtship is a very old and very serious institution. It is not a joking matter."
"Severus, I can’t believe that you would think that I’d joke about something so important. I am completely serious. I want nothing more than to court you, to get to know you and to spend time with you. I’ve come to admire you greatly and I really want to see you on a personal basis. I have feelings for you, Severus. I have for a long time now, but I never had the courage to say anything before now," Harry admitted.
"So, why now?" Severus demanded. "What do you really want? I don’t trust your motives, and why in Merlin’s name did you think I would want nipple clamps, of all things?"
Harry couldn’t stop the smirk from showing on his face as he answered as honestly as possible, "Because I thought the gold would look gorgeous against all that creamy white skin of yours."
Harry took a step closer to Severus, still wearing that damned towel. Heat radiated from every pore in his body. Severus took a step back.
"I thought the sparkle of the diamonds would look spectacular clamped onto those hard, rosy nubs," Harry continued, taking another step forward.
Severus’s eyes looked glazed and his breathing quickened. He sidestepped Harry’s advance, darting past him and fleeing out the open door.
Harry chuckled to himself, but didn’t follow. Well, he really couldn’t because all he had on was a towel and somehow he didn’t think Minerva would appreciate him streaking starkers through the halls of Hogwarts.
On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
The next day Severus sat in the Great Hall trying to eat his lunch, but it was difficult. Smoldering green eyes watched his every move. It was embarrassing—humiliating really, but also erotic. Severus met Harry’s gaze and wished he hadn’t. The infernal brat looked like a wet dream come to life as he sucked a strawberry between his full lips.
Severus pushed his plate aside and left the Great Hall through the back door. He needed the cool air of his dungeons and possibly a cold shower before the start of afternoon classes.
He should’ve known better because as soon as he entered his quarters he spotted the black silk box propped up on his settee.
"Oh, God, not again," Snape grumbled as he grabbed the box and flipped open the lid.
Black lace panties with stockings attached dangled from Severus’s fingertips. The potions master stared at them with an open mouth. His brain was in shock, but his body betrayed him. He was hard as a rock and needed relief now.
Dropping the undergarments back onto the settee, Severus hastily stripped out of his clothes and made a mad dash for the bathroom. Once under the frigid water, he took a deep breath. The water calmed his racing heart but did nothing for his erection.
Severus sighed and slicked his hand with soap. He grabbed his erection roughly and stroked himself hard and without mercy. He knew he was close and when a vision of a man with strawberry red lips materialized before him, he shoved two fingers up his arse, gave one last hard pull on his cock and came screaming Harry’s name. It was the most intense orgasm he’d had in years. Maybe now he could get through his afternoon classes without collapsing in a heap
.
On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Severus hadn’t even left his bed for the start of the new day when he came face to face with a blinking box that read, ‘Open me, please.’
How was this maniac breaking into his quarters without him ever hearing a thing? It was maddening. No one should have that kind of power.
Severus grabbed the box and opened it. Black silk slid across his hand. It was a scarf. No, two scarves and Severus had some idea of their purpose. At this point, one of his heads thought it was a very good idea.
This insanity couldn’t go on much longer. Severus was about to spontaneously combust. He’d tried hard to ignore Potter, but the more he did the more he thought about him and all the naughty things Harry could do to him. Severus was a spiteful, paranoid, reclusive and an anti-social man. He’d only ever had sex in his dreams. Harry Potter was the star of all his fantasies and had been since right before the final battle. Could he let himself open up enough to experience the real thing? He didn’t know, but he wanted to try.
Over breakfast, Snape glared daggers at Harry who just kept on eating. He had a permanent smile plastered all over his face.
‘How infuriating,’ Snape thought, but just as Harry got up to leave, Severus decided to pounce.
"Mr. Potter, may I have a word with you?" Severus purred.
"Of course, Severus, what can I do for you?" Oh, what couldn’t he do for him?
"Would you come to my office for a moment? I do not wish to discuss this here in the Great Hall."
"Sure," Harry said smiling at the glaring man.
Harry followed Severus down the hall and into his office, watching black robes billow with every step. Once in his office, Severus locked the door and put up a silencing charm so they wouldn’t be overheard.
"What do you want from me, Potter? Snape asked, looking more frightened than angry.
"I told you, Severus. I want to court you. I’m so attracted to you that I can barely stand it. If I’m not what you want, you can just tell me now and I won’t bother you ever again. I just thought that we could be good together," Harry’s eyes held a pleading look.
"I have not been in a relationship since my school days and even that was extremely short lived. It ended almost before it began. I am not someone that others fancy, but I am sure that you are aware of this. Why do you want me? You’ve been away for more than eight years. I’m sure you must have had some admirers in that time?" Snape asked, unable to mask his insecurity.
Harry tried to explain, "I want you because you’re the only one who makes me truly feel. You infuriate me, exasperate me, challenge me and arouse me. I feel so much when I’m near you that I’m afraid I might explode. I know I’m not making any sense, but it’s hard to describe. Please, Severus, take this chance? What do you have to lose? Come have dinner with me in my quarters tonight. I give you my word that there will only be conversation," Harry said, flashing Severus a blinding smile.
Severus wanted to believe, but that nagging doubt kept making its presence known. He had to fight it this time if he wanted any kind of a life with Harry.
Severus nodded, "I will be there at seven. There will be no touching or kissing. Do you agree to these terms?"
"Yes, I agree. I promise—just dinner and some more conversation," Harry was giddy with relief that Severus was having dinner with him.
"Fine, but I must get to my first class. You may go now, Potter," Severus turned and started preparing for his class.
"Um, it’s Harry and I’ll see you at seven."
Harry couldn’t suppress the grin on his face as he left for the infirmary. He was definitely making progress. There might be a December heat wave after all.
~~~~~~~
The day passed slowly and Harry thought seven o’clock would never come. By the time Harry heard the knock on his door, he was more than a little jumpy. He steadied his nerves and opened the door. Severus looked scrumptious in his black robes with delicate silver trim. His glossy hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail. Harry had never seen Severus wear it that way, but thought it was very becoming on the older man. Severus looked delicious, but Harry controlled his impulses lest he scare off the man. The nipple clamps were bad enough. He didn’t want to push his luck.
Harry smiled broadly, trying to put Severus at ease, "Good evening, Severus. I’m glad you could come. Please come in and sit down. What can I get you to drink?"
Severus entered and looked around nervously. He took a seat on the sofa and cleared his throat before speaking. Harry looked so good in his tight black pants and hunter green silk shirt. Severus seriously wondered if he’d be able to keep his own promise of no touching. It would definitely be tough, considering the way Harry’s shirt clung to his body like a second skin.
Severus swallowed thickly, "Scotch. Neat, Potter."
"Won’t you please call me Harry?" he asked, licking his lips hungrily and pouring Severus a drink.
Their fingertips lightly brushed as Severus took the drink from Harry’s hand. The feeling was electric, the air charged with magic. Severus blushed slightly; however, it was just enough for Harry to notice.
"All right, if you insist. Thank you, Harry," Severus said.
"You’re welcome. I really like the way you say my name, but then again your voice has a life of its own. You don’t know how many fantasies I’ve had while listening to your voice," Harry confessed.
"I had no idea. How long have you been having these fantasies?" Severus asked, genuinely curious.
"Since my sixth year at Hogwarts. I spent most of that time with a hard on in your class. I’m surprised you never noticed, but I guess robes are good for hiding all sorts of sins," Harry chuckled.
Severus actually smirked a little at Harry’s confession. He felt more relaxed now and some of his doubts about Harry’s sincerity were beginning to fade.
Dinner was interesting and casual, with stimulating conversation and just a tiny bit of innuendo. A little bantering here and there was never amiss. Harry was sad to see the evening end, but Severus had classes in the morning and couldn’t stay late.
Harry walked Severus to the door and thanked him whole-heartedly for coming. Overall, it had been an extremely pleasant evening.
"I’m really glad you came, Severus," Harry commented as he stared into Severus’s eyes, wanting nothing more than to feel this man writhing beneath him.
"Thank you, Pot… Harry. Dinner was excellent and the conversation wasn’t as tedious as I thought it would be," Severus sounded surprised.
"Does this mean that you’ll consider doing it again?" Harry asked hopefully.
"Possibly, if you’re sure you want to?" The insecurity rose again.
"God, you know I do. Nothing would make me happier," the young healer assured him.
"Then I will think about it. Good night, Harry," Severus whispered.
"Good night, Severus," Harry leaned in and just barely brushed his lips across Severus’s tightly drawn mouth.
He felt the older man tremble slightly and he delighted in the knowledge that he was the one who had made Severus Snape shiver.
On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
The next evening, after dinner in the Great Hall, Snape arrived once again at Harry’s quarters. This time Harry offered his gift in person. Snape gingerly took the green velvet box from Harry’s hand and opened it. Inside was a small vial of Phoenix tears, one of the rarest potion ingredients in the world.
Severus flushed, and tried to think of something to say. Harry had overwhelmed Severus with his shear generosity.
"I… I can’t accept this, Harry. It’s too rare, too expensive…" Severus was at a loss for words.
"Please, Severus. I want you to have it. Besides, what would I do with Phoenix tears? You know how good I am at potions," Harry laughed. "I couldn’t brew a diaper rash ointment."
"Hmm, I suppose you’re right. Phoenix tears in your hands would be such a waste," Severus stated.
A small smile graced Severus’s face, reaching all the way to his eyes. Harry’s breath caught in his throat at the magnificent sight and he couldn’t resist the urge to swoop in for a kiss. A very chaste kiss that to Harry’s surprise Severus returned.
Harry smiled, "Would you like to stay for a drink?"
"Not this evening. I have essays to grade before class tomorrow. Maybe some other time, Harry. Thank you for my gift. It was very generous of you," Severus said.
"Don’t mention it. I’m glad you liked it. I’ll see you tomorrow," Harry whispered.
"Yes. Good night, Harry."
Harry’s kiss had Severus reeling, chaste as it was, it was the most erotic sensation he’d experienced in many years. It looked as though Severus would be in need of another cold shower tonight.
On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Friday was a welcome relief from the horrors of the week. Severus was more than ready for two days away form the little miscreants; however, unlike other weekends he would not be spending this one alone.
Breakfast at the Head Table had been interesting. Severus received an owl, which was very unusual. The man rarely ever got mail, except for the occasional potions journal. It had the entire staff and student body gossiping feverishly.
The owl deposited its envelope, waited for a treat and then promptly flew away. Severus stuffed the envelope into his robes and left the Hall in a hurry. People looked on in astonishment and amusement. Harry didn’t even look up from his copy of the Prophet.
When Severus reached his office, he opened the envelope. It was an engraved invitation from Harry to join him in London for dinner theatre. Severus readily accepted. He was beginning to enjoy all the attention Harry was lavishing upon him and Severus realized that he would be thoroughly heartbroken if things didn’t work out. Oh, how lonely his life had been up to this point.
The weekend passed quickly—Friday evening in London, Saturday day by the lake, Saturday evening in Severus’s chambers. Harry was elated and surprised by the openness Severus had displayed over the past two days. He was looking forward to sharing a meal in Severus’s quarters and possibly a bit more. Severus was showing definite signs of thawing. He no longer shied away from Harry’s touch and hope was beginning to blossom in the younger man’s heart.
On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Harry arrived at Severus’s chambers a little early. God help him if he were late. He knew how Severus was about punctuality. Harry knocked and was pleasantly surprised when Severus opened the door. The man was not wearing his usual multi-buttoned attire, but a black button down shirt with several of the top buttons undone. Harry’s cock twitched at the sight of pale skin.
"Come in, Mr. Potter. Dinner will be severed shortly. I sincerely hope you enjoy it. I prepared it myself," Severus stated, as he handed Harry a glass of wine.
"Really? I’m impressed. I had no idea you could cook. I just figured house elves delivered all the meals," Harry said, seating himself on the sofa.
"They do most of the time, but I thought it would be more intimate to do it myself," Severus told him.
"Hmm, yes, I agree, much more intimate," Harry smirked and Severus smirked back.
Maybe they’d get to some touching and kissing tonight. Harry’s prospects were looking good.
After dinner, Harry and Severus sat on the sofa, sipping on sherry and talking about Harry’s adventures abroad. That’s when Harry pulled a tiny box out of his pocket and handed it to Severus.
"Harry, it isn’t necessary for you to keep giving me gifts. I am now satisfied that your intentions are sincere," Severus said.
"I’m glad, but I have several more gifts for you. You’re going to get one everyday until Christmas. It was all part of my plan," Harry smiled beguilingly at Severus. "I bought this one when I was on vacation in Egypt."
"You had a plan?" Severus questioned with a raised eyebrow, letting a little of his old suspicions creep into his voice.
Harry laughed, "Yes, Severus, I had a plan. I needed to find a way to get you to talk to me, to make you see that my intentions were genuine."
"I was impressed by the way you dismissed my wards so easily. How ever did you do it?" Severus wondered.
"I’ve had plenty of practice at breaking into places, but yours were the toughest," Harry told him. "Now open your present."
Severus flashed Harry the tiniest hint of a smile and opened the box. Inside was a scarab. It looked ancient. Severus removed it from the box and held it in his hand. He could feel the power coursing through it.
He couldn’t contain his curiosity, "This is very beautiful and very old, but it’s been altered. What did you do to it?"
"Ah, I knew you’d feel it. I imbued it with protection charms. It also has one hell of a healing spell attached to it, in case of an emergency. This particular scarab matches your specific magical signature and will automatically trigger if you’re ever seriously ill or hurt. I suggest you wear it always, if only for my own peace of mind." Harry reached over and gently caressed the side of Severus’ face with the back of his hand.
Heat flared in Severus’s eyes at Harry’s gentle touch. No one had ever been so thoughtful or so careful with him in the past. This was all new to him and so frightening, but Severus pushed himself to lean in and kiss Harry’s lush lips.
Severus pulled back and took in the dazed expression on Harry’s face, letting a real smile show, "Thank you, for this, Harry. No one has ever given me something this special, but you really must stop with the gifts. It is not necessary."
"I know, Severus, but you only have six more to go," Harry said grinning.
"Oh, please, tell me you’re not doing the twelve day of Christmas? That’s just so cliché," Severus groaned.
"You mean you don’t like it? Well, if you really don’t like it I…" Harry teased.
"I never said I didn’t like it. I said it was cliché. So, um… what’s the next gift?" Severus asked with a hint of excitement in his voice.
Harry giggled, "You are so bad, but you’ll just have to wait until tomorrow to find out."
Harry could resist no longer. He pulled Severus close and pressed his lips against the older man’s mouth. He remained ridged for a moment and Harry considered releasing him, but then Severus relaxed into the kiss and opened his mouth. Harry slipped in his tongue gently and swirled it around the roof of Severus’s mouth. They explored each other’s mouths at a leisurely pace, kissing and nipping lightly at each other’s bottom lip.
The kiss wasn’t hurried or frantic. Harry was in control of it and he made sure he did nothing to spook his thoroughbred. By the time the kiss ended, Harry knew the inside of Severus’s mouth intimately.
Harry nuzzled the side of his neck and whispered in his ear, "I want you so badly… let me stay the night?"
Severus’s breath hitched, but his body tensed. He wasn’t sure he was ready for that. He’d never before taken anyone to his bed.
Harry instantly recognized the signs of panic and released his hold on Severus. He smiled at him, trying to put him at ease.
"It’s all right. Perhaps another night. We’ve had a very full weekend and I just hate to see it end," Harry soothed him.
"It is not over yet. We still have tomorrow. I must go to Diagon Alley for some supplies. Would you like to accompany me?" Severus asked with an ulterior motive.
Severus wanted to find out if Harry had any objections to being seen with him. Muggle London was one thing, the wizarding world was quite another.
Harry beamed, "I’d love to. We can have lunch there and I can finish my Christmas shopping. Thank you for asking me."
"You’re quite welcome, but it is getting late and we should really make an early start of it in the morning. Diagon Alley is always crowded this time of year," a dismissal.
"You’re right, it is late. I completely lost track of the time. Thank you again for dinner. It was exceptional. I’ll see you bright and early then?"
"Yes, eight will be fine. Thank you for my gift. I’ll wear it always," Severus showed Harry to the door, kissing him one last time before he left.
Closing the door behind him, Severus felt like a teenager. He wasn’t even sure if he’d be able to sleep tonight. He thought that maybe he should’ve let Harry stay, but then again, anticipation was all part of the romance and he didn’t want to seem too eager or desperate, even if he was.
On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Morning came and went as the two lovebirds wandered around Diagon Alley. They shopped, dined, and walked together. The two men stopped for dinner and cocktails in the early evening.
Harry wanted their day to last forever, but when they left the Three Broomsticks, reporters mobbed them. Flashbulbs went off in their faces and Rita Skeeter kept shouting out questions. Harry didn’t care about them, but Severus looked ready to hex someone. Harry took matters into his own hands. He grabbed Severus around the waist and apparated both of them back to the gates of Hogwarts.
Once Severus had stopped shaking, Harry let go of him. The older man turned away abruptly and headed up the path that led to Hogwarts.
"Severus, slow down, please. It’s all right. Stop!" Harry shouted.
Severus stopped in his tracks and rounded on Harry, "I hope you’re happy now. You’ve just made me a laughing stock. My life is miserable enough. I don’t need it splashed all over the front page of the Daily Prophet. I can see the headlines now: ‘Boy Wonder lowers himself to be seen in the company of former Death Eater!’ That should be just priceless. Your friends will have a field day. I don’ think…"
"That’s enough, Severus!" Harry said angrily.
He didn’t know what set off Severus, but he had thought that the man had gotten past his paranoid suspicions. Apparently, he hadn’t. Not all of them anyway.
Severus looked at Harry and then lowered his eyes, "I apologize. It was not your fault."
"Severus, you have every right to be furious. I am too," Harry told him. "These people are like piranhas, but I don’t care if a picture of us ends up on the front page of that rag. I enjoy being with you, I love going places with you, and I want to continue to do so. Please don’t let those vultures get to you. What do we care what they say or what anyone else says for that matter?"
"I know you’re right. I just didn’t want to cause you any undue embarrassment. I will never be popular," Severus stated.
"You could never be an embarrassment, Severus. I love you," To prove his point, Harry pulled Severus close and kissed him soundly.
Severus pulled back and stared at the man. He must have heard wrong.
"What?" Severus was stunned.
"I said that I love you," Harry repeated. "You don’t have to say it back. I know it’s too soon, but maybe someday you’ll feel the same for me."
"I… I…" Harry had never seen Severus stammer in such a manner.
"Shush, it’s ok. Really. Severus, can we please go inside now? It’s getting a bit chilly out here. I’ve got some mulled wine in my quarters that would really hit the spot," Harry kissed him on the cheek and led the flabbergasted man into the building and up to his room.
No muss, no fuss, Harry pulled him along like a little child. Harry had never seen Severus speechless before.
Once safely inside his room, Harry pushed Severus against the closed door and proceeded to ravish his mouth. Passion exploded behind his eyelids as the silky heat of Severus’s mouth enveloped his tongue. When they finally came up for air, they were both hard and panting. Harry’s cock was leaking through his trousers and he wanted nothing more than to throw Severus down and fuck him senseless, but he didn’t do that. He stepped back and gave Severus time to regain his composure.
"I’m sorry, Severus. I didn’t mean to pounce on you like that. I just couldn’t help it. You’re driving me mad, you know?" Harry panted.
"I’m driving you mad? That’s absurd!" Severus said, with a roll of his eyes. "It’s not that I don’t want you. I do. It’s just that I’ve never done this before and I want it to be good for you as well," Severus quietly admitted; he really had no idea how to make love to someone.
"Severus, it couldn’t be anything but good with someone who makes me feel the way you do; nevertheless, I agree that we should wait. I was hoping maybe we could spend the night together Christmas Eve. What do you think? Would that be possible?" Harry asked.
"Hmm, Christmas Eve, I suppose that would be a fitting time. Yes, then, Christmas Eve," agreed Severus.
"If you want to wait, I don’t have a problem with it. I don’t want to rush you into anything," Harry wanted Severus to come to him because he wanted to be with him, not because he felt pressured into it.
"I know, Harry. You’ve been extremely patient. No one else has ever shown me such consideration. I want you to know that I do have very deep feelings for you, even though I’m not always capable of showing it," Severus told him.
"I know Severus and it’s perfectly alright. Now, come have some wine and open the gift I got for you," Harry beckoned.
"Not another one. Please Harry, you must stop," Severus complained.
"Sorry, but I told you, one a day until Christmas." Harry grinned.
Harry poured Severus some wine and handed him a little gold box. He was grinning like a fool. Severus smiled too as he sat down and opened the box. Inside was a ruby Gryffindor signet ring. It was Harry’s signet ring from Hogwarts. Severus looked up into Harry’s emerald eyes, surprised that he would give him something of such sentimental value.
"I wasn’t sure if you’d want it… and… um…you don’t have to wear it or anything, but I wanted you to have it. Think of it as a promise ring from me to you," Harry stammered.
Severus smiled at Harry and placed the ring on his finger, "I’ll wear it until they have to cut it from my decaying body."
"Now there’s a happy thought," Harry laughed, kissing Severus affectionately in the process.
With a last kiss and the promise of Christmas Eve still lingering in their minds, Harry bid Severus a good night. Mondays were never easy and Severus would need all of his strength to deal with the mayhem and madness that was Hogwarts.
On the eight day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
‘I believe it’s a partridge in a pair tree,’ Severus thought, as he arrived back in his quarters after his final class.
To his surprise, he found a full size, fully decorated Christmas tree, with its very own partridge standing by his fireplace.
"Damn, Potter! How does he do that?" Severus grumbled, but he couldn’t quite suppress the smile on his face.
Hanging on one of the tree limbs was note that read,
I’ve been called away. There is an emergency at St. Mungo’s and they needed some extra help. I really wanted to see you this evening, but I’ll just have to wait until breakfast. I’m sorry, Severus. I’ll miss your company tonight.
Love Harry
"Blast it! I was sort of looking forward to seeing the romantic the little wretch," Severus muttered to himself.
Oh well, he’d just have to spend another evening enjoying the company of his hand. He was becoming an expert at wanking and really, at his age it was rather unseemly.
The next morning Severus awoke to the smell of hot cocoa laced with cinnamon. He reached over and grabbed the steaming mug off his nightstand. The front of the mug read, "I’m back. I’ll see you at breakfast."
"Yes, I might have known," Severus chuckled aloud.
On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
At breakfast, Severus found his seating arrangement altered. He had his same seat, only now instead of Madam Hooch sitting next to him it was one Harry James Potter. He had that irritating, smug smile on his face. Severus never even batted an eyelash. He just sat down beside Harry and passed him the biscuits. The hall was so quiet that the students could hear their teachers chewing. Minerva smiled to herself. Harry’s charm certainly was doing wonders for Severus’s disposition.
Before leaving the Great Hall, Harry slipped something into Severus hand and rushed away. Once in the hallway Severus opened his hand to see what it was. It was a small bottle of some sort. Severus pulled the stopper out of it and immediately felt a tugging at his navel. The world began to spin and when he was finally able to open his eyes, he found himself inside a broom closet with none other than Harry.
"Good morning, Love," Harry said smiling.
"Er… good morning -- I think, but would you kindly explain to me why you have port keyed me into a broom closet?" Severus demanded.
"Why, I’d be delighted!" Harry laughed. "You see that port key, the very one you hold in your hand, is designed to bring you to me wherever I might be. If you ever need me and can’t find me, this portkey will bring you to me. It’s compliments of Fred and George Weasley. Don’t you think that’s cleaver, huh?"
"Very," Severus drawled. "I suppose this means that I’ll never be able to get rid of you."
"Oh, no, it only works one way," Harry explained. "You find me. I don’t find you. Kiss me."
"Not in a broom closet," Severus protested.
"Yes, in a broom closet," Harry seized the moment and plundered Severus’s mouth while it was still hanging open.
Severus managed to push Harry away after a few minutes, but Harry didn’t put up much of a fuss when he saw how thoroughly snogged Severus looked.
"Blast it, Harry. You’re going to make me late for class. I must go now," Snape said.
"All right then, but won’t you at least have dinner with me tonight in my chambers, away from prying eyes? Please?" Harry begged.
"I’m sorry, Harry. I can’t. I have to supervise seeing the children off this year. I‘ll be at the train station until late and then we have Minerva’s Christmas party to attend, unless you forgot?" Severus taunted him.
"That’s just bloody wonderful," Harry griped, stealing another quick kiss before letting Severus escape.
"Ah, I guess I did forget. I honestly never gave it a thought. You’re going to be tired after train detail, aren’t you? Well, how about meeting me for lunch?" Harry called after Severus’s retreating figure.
"Not today—I’ve too much to do. I’ll see you later at the party. We will just have to find time tomorrow, and I promise you’ll live until then," Severus smirked as he strode away.
"I’m not sure I will," Harry commented into thin air.
Now he wished he had a port key that would bring him to Severus whenever he needed him. He’d just pop into classes with him. Wouldn’t that be a surprise to Severus and his students?
Around ten o’clock that evening, Severus finally arrived at the party looking haggard. He had one glass of punch, mumbled something about being exhausted and left the Great Hall.
Harry followed him out the door, "Severus, are you alright?"
Severus stopped and walked back to him. He had that "I might hex someone at any moment" look on his face.
"Was it that bad?" Harry inquired.
"You have no idea. Those little miscreants are atrocious. I thought they were bad during classes, but compared to when they’ve been set loose for a holiday, they are perfect angels during term time," Severus answered with a tired sigh. "They ran off. I had to go look for them. They started hexing each other. I had to intervene and a jelly legs jinx hit me. Miss Johnson turned Mr. Lloyd’s hair purple and several parents asked me what kind of asylum I was running. Now, I’m going to have a hot bath and go to bed. I will see you tomorrow, Mr. Potter."
Robes swirled before Harry’s eyes and in a flash Severus was out of sight.
"Good night, Severus," Harry called after him.
He just stood there and shook his head. Poor Severus had a particularly hard day. It was no wonder he wasn’t in the mood for a party.
On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Severus was determined to make some time for Harry tonight. Two days without kissing the man, except in a broom closet, was miserable. It was as if he’d become addicted to Harry. Severus chided himself for acting like a love-struck teenager. His behavior was positively ridiculous.
There were only two more days until Christmas, and only one until Christmas Eve. Severus was nervous. He wanted that night to be special for Harry. Christmas was always a time of bitter loneliness for Severus, but this one was different. It had been full of surprises and even fun, thanks to Harry. If every Christmas could be like this one, Severus might never be cranky again. No, that was just too much to ask.
Severus hadn’t seen Harry all morning and he was beginning to wonder where the cheeky brat was. He was probably up to something as usual. It wasn’t until lunchtime that Severus found out what mischief Harry had been making.
Severus sat at the Head Table with the other staff members and watched as a bright red balloon floated down the aisle. When it reached Severus, it burst, spewing confetti all over the table. The entire staff was giggling at this point. Severus gave them a stern look and picked up the card that had fallen onto his plate. The print bobbed and weaved all over, making Severus a little dizzy. It read,
Meet me tonight in the room of requirement, for dinner, dancing and more.
Love, Harry
Severus raised an eyebrow and promptly banished the confetti and incinerated the card. He glared at Minerva and the other staff members, who were staring with rapt attention at their potions teacher.
"What are you all gawking at?" Severus growled. "The show is over."
Inside though, Severus felt warm in the pit of his stomach and he really hoped it would go away before his date in the room of requirement.
Severus arrived at the appointed time and was pleased to find the room of requirement bathed in candlelight. Soft music played as he entered and he noticed the table was set with fine china. Harry greeted him with a kiss and a glass of champagne.
Harry treated Severus to an evening of dining, drinking and dessert. They danced until dawn and then went to the astronomy tower to watch the sunrise.
Afterwards, Harry walked Severus back to his chambers, kissed him sweetly and murmured in his ear, "Until tonight."
Severus shivered at the thought. Tonight was Christmas Eve and everything Severus had always wanted was about to come true, just like a fairytale.
On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Harry took Severus to dinner in London that evening and when they returned, he left Severus in his chambers. He said he had to retrieve something form his own quarters and that he would be right back. Severus was happy that Harry had left. Now he had time to prepare. He had a little surprise of his own to spring on Harry.
When Harry arrived back at Severus’s quarters, he was shocked to see a glowing sign hanging in midair. The sign said "This Way" with a large arrow pointing toward Severus’s bedroom. At least, Harry assumed it was the bedroom. He’d never actually been in it.
Harry moved slowly toward the door and then pushed it open all the way. He stepped inside the room. There were candles lit all around. Harry’s breath caught in his throat. Severus lay sprawled seductively in the middle of the four-poster bed. He was wearing the black lace panties, silk stockings, and best of all, the diamond studded nipple clamps. The black silk scarves hung loosely draped around his neck.
Harry started to salivate at the sight before him.
‘God, what a smorgasbord,’ Harry thought. It was like one of those all you could eat buffets that only had desserts on it.
"Mr. Potter, care to join me?" Severus drawled silkily.
Harry wouldn’t need a second invitation. He banished his clothes with the wave of his wand and crawled his way up Severus’s body. When he reached the top, he crushed his lips to Severus’s mouth. Passion ran though his veins and ignited a fire deep in his soul.
Severus looked so damned hot that it should have been a crime.
"Gods, Severus, you look so beautiful -- so beautiful!" Harry exclaimed. "I’ve wanted you for so long now."
"And I you, but I’m not very good at this, Harry. I don’t know what to do," Severus said timidly.
"Hush, it’s alright, love. You don’t have to do anything. Tonight is for you and you alone. All you have to do is feel," Harry kissed him again and slid the scarves off his neck, gently tying Severus’s wrists to the headboard.
Severus looked frightened, but not for long. Once Harry began his ministrations, Severus forgot all about his fear. Harry kissed and nipped along Severus’s jaw line then moved on to the hollow of his neck. He slid his tongue along Severus’s tender throat and down the middle of his chest. He stopped to give proper attention to the rosy nubs caught between the sparkling nipple clamps, nipping gently and sucking each one into his mouth.
"Oh, God," Severus gasped.
It was the most delicious sound Harry had ever heard. Severus writhed beneath him as he nibbled on each tender bud. Harry stopped for a moment and gently flicked the nipple clamps with his thumbnails.
"Fuck!" Severus cried out in pleasure.
His hips bucked up off the bed and Harry smiled down at him. Severus was hard and leaking through his panties and this was only the beginning.
Harry resumed his trek down Severus’s body. He laved at his navel, licked the tip of his cock through the panties and then spread his legs wider. Harry slid the panties off Severus’s slim hips and tossed them aside. Then Harry licked up and down the inside of both thighs, rolling Severus’s balls in his hand as he licked and suckled the soft, sensitive flesh. Severus was tossing his head from side to side, babbling nonsense as Harry swiped the underside of Severus’ cock with his tongue.
"Harry, please!" the older man begged.
"Easy, love. I’ve only just begun," with that, Harry spread Severus’s legs a little wider and tucked into the buffet.
Harry licked his way around the outside rim of Severus’s puckered opening, eliciting a series of moans and gasps from his lover. He laved the entrance until the hard ring of muscles gave a little and then he stabbed inside the tight opening with his tongue.
Severus screamed and arched his back but Harry held him firm. He jabbed the tight hole repeatedly with his tongue until Severus was completely incoherent.
"Oh, Merlin… Harry…. Please, need you inside me. Please!" Severus screamed.
Harry shoved his tongue in as far as it would go and just barely grazed the little sweet spot inside. Severus almost went into orbit.
"Gods, Harry… can’t take much more… I’m going to come soon," he struggled valiantly against his bonds, but the silk scarves held him in check.
Harry took pity on him and pulled his tongue out. He climbed back up Severus’s body and dove in for a kiss. Tongues battled for dominance and Severus tasted his own musky flavor in Harry’s mouth. Harry broke off the kiss, moving his hips up level with Severus’s mouth.
"Open wide, love," Harry said as he nudged Severus’s lips with the head of his cock.
Severus opened up and sucked the engorged member into his mouth. Harry groaned at the feel of Severus’s lips wrapped around his cock. He gently held his lover’s head still as he fucked his mouth, slow and steady. When Harry felt his balls begin to tighten, he pulled out quickly and moved back down between Severus’s legs.
Finally, Harry held out his hand and a little jar of lube that he retrieved from his quarters earlier flew into his palm. He unscrewed the lid quickly and slicked his fingers. He slipped one slick finger in gently and crooked it around until he hit pay dirt. Severus mewled loudly and tried to draw Harry’s finger in deeper. Harry relented and inserted a second finger. He scissored them back and forth until Severus was begging for more. With three fingers in, he stretched until he was sure Severus was fully prepared.
"Please, Harry… now, now!" Severus pleaded.
"Yes, love, now," Harry slicked his cock and positioned it at Severus’s tight entrance.
He slid inside with one swift motion, resting there until Severus could adjust to the intrusion. It wasn’t long, because Severus began to move on his own, pulling Harry deeper inside of him.
Harry gave a tentative thrust and groaned aloud at the sensation. Tight, slick heat enveloped his cock, making it pulse and throb with ecstasy.
"Oh God, Severus, you’re so tight -- so hot, so bloody perfect," Harry moaned.
"Harder, Harry, faster, please!" Severus shouted in his delirium.
Harry sped up, thrust after thrust. He waved his hand and released the silk scarves that held his lover. He grabbed Severus around the waist and lifted him onto his lap. Severus slid down even deeper on Harry’s cock. Harry kissed him, shoving his tongue between Severus’s lips. They groaned and gyrated together in a tangle of limbs. Severus, with head thrown back and hair flying out behind him, rode Harry’s cock hard. Harry was breathless as he stared at the wild wonder before him.
Harry was close, so close. He reached between their sweat-soaked bodies and stroked Severus’s cock in time with his thrusts. Severus repeatedly impaled himself on Harry’s swollen cock. Harry leaned down and latched onto Severus’s neck, raising goose flesh in his wake. Severus jerked, coming with a scream and shot his essence high into the air. Harry let Severus down gently on his back and pounded into him with a fury. A moment later, he followed his lover over the edge of the abyss.
Harry collapsed on top of Severus. They were both panting harshly and their hearts were pounding in their throats. Harry finally regained enough of his senses to roll off his lover, pulling Severus with him. Harry gently undid the nipple clamps and laid them on the nightstand beside the bed. Harry pulled Severus closer and held the shaking man tightly. He whispered sweet nonsense in his ear until Severus’s breathing returned to normal.
Severus finally raised his head and looked into Harry’s eyes. He was looking for any sign of disappointment, but all he saw in those sated green pools was love.
"Was it… alright, Harry?" he asked timidly.
"Alright?" Harry laughed. "All right doesn’t even begin to describe it. Gods, Severus, it was Heaven and then some. I’ve never felt anything like it. It was everything I’ve ever wanted making love to be."
"Severus smiled, "Thank you. I wanted to give you something special after all the wonderful gifts you gave me. I thought the best present to give you would be myself."
"And you were right. I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I love you, Severus, more than anything," Harry whispered as he nuzzled Severus’s ear.
Severus sighed contentedly and fell into a blissful sleep. Harry cast a simple cleaning charm and wrapped his arms around his lover. He smiled to himself as he followed Severus into dreamland.
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Harry awoke curled around another body on Christmas morning. He grinned, remembering the events of the prior evening. Severus stirred beside him and opened his eyes.
Harry whispered, "Merry Christmas, Love."
"Merry Christmas, Harry," Severus replied and snuggled closer.
"Would you like some breakfast?" Harry asked. "I can have the house elves deliver us some."
"No, actually, I think I’d like to just lay here and maybe sleep a little longer," Severus yawned.
"Yes, that sounds good to me too. The longer I can hold you the better." Harry said, kissing Severus on the cheek.
Severus rose up on his elbow and looked Harry in the eyes. It was said very softly, but still audible and it was the most wonderful gift Harry had ever received in his life.
"I love you, Harry."
Finished