Snarry-a-Thon FIC: Asphodel and Ink Title: Asphodel & Ink Author:shadowess Other Pairings/Threesomes: Harry/Ginny Rating: NC-17 Word count: 7164 Warning(s): (highlight for spoilers) *There is no actual sexual relationship between Severus and Albus Severus.* Prompt: #293 - Albus Severus writes home to his father extolling the virtues of his potions professor, while Snape writes to his tentative friend, Harry, praising the merits of Potter junior. Harry fears that things are being written between the lines and suspects an affair. Surprisingly, he is green with jealousy and makes plans to snare Snape for himself. Summary: See the prompt, that sums it up pretty well. A/N: Thanks to aliciamasters for the super fast beta at the final hour as well as the fab title. Also there is some content from the original text of Book 1 adapted into the story.
Asphodel & Ink
Dear Dad,
Hogwarts is amazing! The trip across the lake in those boats was very exciting, and now I know how you felt the first time you saw the castle. It’s just after the Welcoming Feast and I’m now sitting in my dorm. I know you and mum are curious about what colours I’m surrounded in. Well after our little chat at King’s Cross, I felt a lot better and I let the Sorting Hat do its job. It seemed like a long time it was sitting on my head, and why didn’t you tell me that it talked to you? I just about fell off the stool! Well the hat took it’s time about sorting me, did you look down my letter to find out where I ended up? I think you will be proud to know that I followed my namesake. James of course was surprised, but he’s not the only Potter in the school now. I’m very excited for my lessons tomorrow; we get our timetables at breakfast. I’m not sure which lesson I’m looking forward to the most. Charms, Flying, or maybe Potions, I know you were never a fan of Potions but I think that Professor Snape is a little different now. Anyways, love you dad, and send my love to mum.
Love, Albus Severus
Harry smiled as he read his son’s first letter from Hogwarts. He felt a surge of pride for his son; he was brave to let the Sorting Hat have its way. Really, Harry never expected anything less than another Gryffindor. He was happy for Al; he knew how worried he was about ending up as a Slytherin. Regardless of his words at King’s Cross, Harry was sure that his son, who took so much after him, would follow in his footsteps.
Harry shared the letter with Ginny and they both laughed at Al’s enthusiasm. A small seed of concern was planted when Albus expressed his excitement over Potions. Harry didn’t want his son to be disappointed in his first Potions class. Over the years since Snape was discovered in the Shrieking Shack clinging to his last breaths and his subsequent recovery, Harry and Snape had developed a fragile friendship. Harry had assisted in convincing the Wizarding World that Snape had killed Dumbledore at the Headmaster's request and was a key player in the Light side’s defeat of Voldemort. After spending so much time aiding in Snape’s recovery, both physical and social, they had struck up a tolerance for each others’ presence. From there, they spent some time talking about Harry’s mum, and a tentative friendship was formed. Even with the friendship, Snape was still a git and Harry was still a reckless Gryffindor. Now that Albus was following in his footsteps, Harry was wary of his son’s reception in Snape’s potions class.
Snape sneered down his nose at the first year Gryffindor-Slytherin class as they slowly made their way into the room. He spotted the dishevelled black hair that could only belong to a Potter as he followed behind an equally recognizable Malfoy blond. It was the first class of the year, and already Snape could feel the headache that was omni-present whenever he had the misfortune of having both a Malfoy and a Potter in the same class.
Once the students had found their desks, Snape launched into his standard introductory speech about potions. As he glanced from Malfoy’s rapt face over to Potter, he felt that surely he had gone back in time. Potter sat at his desk, parchment and quill in hand, not even paying attention to him. The speech he made back when Potter Senior was in his class was then revisited on his son.
“Mr. Potter, our new - celebrity.” The boy stopped his chicken scratching and looked up with confusion clouding his gaze. “Now tell me, Potter, what do you get if you add powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?”
Potter looked down at his book and started to bite his lower lip. Snape smirked, “You don’t know?”
“Umm, I think you get Draught of Living Death, sir.”
Snape paused, his eyes narrowing,“Correct Mr. Potter. Where would you look if I asked you to find me a bezoar?”
“A goat’s stomach, sir.”
“Correct again, Mr. Potter.” Albus seemed to puff up with his accomplishment. “What is another name for the plant aconite?”
“Err, wolfsbane, sir?”
Snape stepped closer to the desk where the boy sat. “Partially correct: aconite is also called monkshood. I’m impressed, Mr. Potter. It seems that your father’s abysmal potions skills seemed not to transfer to you.”
Albus grinned; the whole family knew his father was pants at potions. Albus had made a point to nick James’ first year potions text over the summer to brush up for his first year at Hogwarts.
Professor Snape made his way to the front of the class, “And Mr. Potter: five points to Slytherin for your preparation for class.”
Potter,
This morning your youngest son had his first potions lesson. I experienced some trepidation when I saw your son enter the classroom, especially since Draco’s scion shares the same lesson. I must admit I was surprised that when I prompted your son , he actually managed to answer potions related questions. Correctly answer, mind. He appears to have some semblance of a brain in his head. How he came by it whilst being your son eludes me. Mayhaps intelligence skips a generation? Your mother always did have a talent for potions. I was flabbergasted that your boy was able to correctly answer on his first day, especially since his older brother takes so well after both his father and namesakes. Reluctant is my belief that a Potter could excel in Potions, though your youngest son may show the promise his grandmother possessed.
You should be proud to know that I broke a promise to myself for your son. I awarded house points to a Potter.
I console myself that those points Potter junior earned went to Slytherin.
-S. Snape
Harry stood up with such force from his desk that he toppled his chair over.
“What?! Al’s a Slytherin?” Harry dropped Snape’s letter as if it had turned into a Runespoor and madly shuffled the papers on his desk to uncover Al’s letter from Hogwarts.
I think you will be proud to know that I followed my namesake.
Harry stared down at the words. Of course he had assumed Albus was referring to his first name. A Slytherin: it was so obvious now that he re-read his son’s words. Even the letter was written like a Slytherin, leaving the reader to draw their own conclusions over the content. Harry could just imagine the self satisfied evil smile that must have passed Snape’s lips when the Sorting Hat placed his son in Slytherin. Ginny would never let him hear the end of it; she had vehemently protested the naming of their second son. She swore that having Severus as a middle name would only bring them trouble, regardless of the accolades Snape received once his story was told to the world. Harry finally managed to win the battle by promising to get up every time the newly minted Albus Severus cried. Unlike his namesake, little Albus Severus cried, a lot. Harry rubbed his jaw; he could imagine Ginny’s reaction when he told her the news of their son. Righting the chair, Harry took up both Snape’s and Albus’ letters and headed downstairs to break the news. He made sure to have his wand in hand and the counter to the Bat-Bogey Hex on his lips.
* * * * *
Dear Dad,
Sorry that I haven’t written you since I’ve returned to Hogwarts. I’ve been busy! The first month of second year has gone pretty well so far. It was exciting to ride in one of those carriages that have those invisible horses; I wonder why they are invisible? Anyways, I’m very excited for classes, boy I sound like a Ravenclaw. I had Potions this morning with the Gryffindors, and one of them melted her cauldron! Professor Snape was so angry, but I understand him. I don’t know why the girl was adding the daisy roots to the shrinking solution without having them properly chopped; of course her cauldron would melt. Professor Snape gave me 10 house points for knowing what she did wrong. Isn’t that great? I know all the other houses don’t like the Professor, but I think he’s brilliant. I mean how many people could put a stopper in their own deaths? And he’s a really good teacher; I always get my potions correct with his instructions.
How are things at home? Is mum at home or is she out of town writing an article for the Prophet? How is Lily doing? Catch any Dark Wizards at work?
Love, Albus Severus
Harry placed his son’s letter down on his desk and ran a hand through his hair. He hoped his son would never have a reason to see the Thestrals. He looked over his son’s letter again and shook his head at his boy’s words. Albus had developed a fascination with potions that Harry couldn’t understand. His son seemed to have also developed a fascination with his Potions professor. Harry could understand that a little bit. Snape was, if anything, fascinating. Albus’ words were true: how many people could stopper their own deaths? Snape had claimed it was possible in his first Potions class with him, though Harry had been hard pressed to believe it. But then almost every potion Harry attempted could very well lead to his own death rather than the intended purpose. Harry gave a resigned sigh and tried to square up with the idea that his son was a Slytherin and liked Snape.
He pulled out some parchment to pen a reply to his son. Looking over his son's questions, he wondered how he was going to answer them all. Things at home were strained. Ginny had gone out of town, though not to write an article on Quidditch. Harry had been busy with work and got home late, and Ginny and he had a huge row. Fortunately, Lily had been staying the night at Molly’s. Ginny was upset that Harry spent more time at the Ministry than at home, now that the boys were at Hogwarts. This of course led to Harry venting his frustrations at having Ginny out of town more often than not. He didn’t understand why she needed to go out of town when she was the editor. Ginny then launched into a rant about how Albus was a Slytherin and it was all Harry’s fault. She blamed him and his own fascination with Snape for putting the idea of Slytherin into Albus’ head.
They had the same argument a year ago when Harry first told her that Al was a Slytherin. Harry had expected a few angry words but thought Ginny’s love of her son would overcome her dislike for Snape and Slytherins in general. As it turned out, Harry's expectations were wrong. Ginny lashed out at Harry with an unexpected rage. She blamed Snape for the distance they had in their marriage. She claimed that Harry had been so obsessed with clearing Snape’s name and seeing him restored that he spent more time with Snape than her in their first year of marriage. Harry was shocked that she felt this way, and sorry that she had never expressed these feelings before.
Their fight had led to Ginny’s pronouncement that she needed to get out of the house to re-evaluate things. Harry grimaced down at the parchment in front of him. He wrote a short reply to his son and hoped that things with him and Ginny would sort themselves out before the boys returned for Christmas holidays.
Snape moved down the aisles between the desks. He sneered at the second year Gryffindors’ attempts at the Blood Replenishing potion. As he made the loop through the Slytherin side of the class, the contents of the cauldrons were mildly closer to the intended potion. At the front of the class, Albus Severus added his flobberworms and stirred nine times counter clockwise. Snape came to stand beside the boy’s desk. He stooped to look into the cauldron; the potion was the correct shade of crimson.
Albus completed his last rotation of the ladle and looked up with hopeful eyes at his professor. “Sir?”
Snape motioned to the ladle, “May I?”
“Of course, Sir.”
Albus cheerfully handed over the ladle, and Snape scooped up some of the potion and slowly let it slosh back into the cauldron. The consistency was almost perfect. “Mr. Potter, you will find if you add an additional gram of flobberworms your potion will settle into the proper consistency.”
Albus visibly deflated and muttered a disappointed, “Oh.”
“Aside from that, 5 points to Slytherin for being the only student to achieve the proper hue for your potion.” A blinding grin plastered itself on Albus’ face as he gazed at his professor.
“Thank you Sir!”
Potter,
As per your last letter, my words of wisdom: beware of redheads. In my experience, I have found that they can be fiery and therefore should be dealt with as one would a dragon. While flattering that your wife believes that my existence is the sole reason why your son was sorted into Slytherin, she is mistaken. The Sorting Hat places students based on their potential as well as their various characteristics. At the risk of a hex, you should inform her that it is most likely due to her rearing of him. That aside, your son is continuing to excel where you so sorely lacked. He is an exemplary student, in Potions class as well as his other lessons, or so his other professors have told me. Of certainty, your son’s skills in Potions have nothing to do with either your wife’s or your rearing of him. I am of the continued belief that his skill descends from your mother, as it is the only way to explain how a son of yours could be adept in the subject. I also believe having my name foisted on him may have assisted in his attention to the subject of potions. One would imagine he would loathe disappointing his namesake.
Today your son was the only student in the class to successfully complete the potion. If you would permit me, I would like to purchase a Yuletide gift for him. I have a text in mind that I am sure he would enjoy, and it would assist him in his studies.
-S. Snape
Harry smiled down at Snape’s letter; he could almost hear the man's voice as he berated him in the letter. Harry wasn’t that much of a Gryffindor as to boldly tell Ginny that she was the reason Albus was in Slytherin. He did still value his life. Dragon’s indeed. Pulling out some parchment from his desk, he began a reply to Snape. Knowing how close to the chest the man played his emotions, Harry was surprised at his request to buy Albus a Yule gift. Albus must surely be a prodigy for Snape to even consider giving him a present, especially a Potions text. It must be the fact that Albus was a Slytherin that helped Snape see him as a fellow human and not a Potter.
* * * * *
Dear Dad,
How are you? I hope things are going well with your search for a new place. I’m really happy that you came to King’s Cross to see all of us off. Mum will no doubt be pleased that Lily was sorted into Gryffindor like James. You know, sometimes I wonder how things would have been different if you were sorted into Slytherin. I wonder if you and Professor Snape would have been friends while you were at school, like he and I are now. Do you think you would have been better at Potions?
Well, I just finished my first third year potions class, and Professor Snape has set us to do a two foot essay on the Wolfsbane Potion. Isn’t it great that I have that brilliant text he gave me for Christmas? There are two chapters on the Wolfsbane Potion, so I know my essay will be awesome. I think Professor Snape expects my essay to be great, but with him as a teacher I can’t see myself do anything but excel.
James is Chaser on the Gryffindor Quidditch team but then he was Chaser last year, so that’s no surprise. I was thinking about trying out for Seeker for Slytherin, but when I talked about it with Professor Snape he told me to focus on my potions. Guess what? He offered to give me private lessons, isn’t that amazing!? I’m really looking forward to the lessons one on one with him, to see a Potions Master in action, wow.
I guess I should get working on my potions essay now. See you at Christmas?
Love, Albus Severus
Harry reclined back onto his new couch and put his feet up on the coffee table. His new flat in Stirling was a decent size and had three bedrooms. One room for him, one for Lily, and one for the boys to share when they came to visit. After his divorce from Ginny, they had decided to have shared custody of the children. The divorce had been on the horizon for a while, but once it was all said and done, Ginny and he were better as friends. Their relationship was now more like when they were back in fifth year at Hogwarts. Harry was pleased that even after everything that went pear shaped in his marriage, Ginny and he could still be friends. He was happiest that all of his children were alright with the divorce. James had been angry at first and wanted to blame someone, but he came around. Lily had been ever practical and was afraid they would starve while staying with their Mum, as Harry always did the cooking. Once placated that Ginny could cook and they would be taken care of, Lily calmed. Then Albus, the child that was the most like Harry in most ways, asked Harry in private what took him so long. Pole-axed was the only way to describe Harry’s expression. Albus Severus then proceeded to ask Harry if maybe Professor Snape could come over for dinner some time, now that mum wasn’t going to be living with him.
Now that Snape’s name was invoked in his mind, it lingered. Harry read over parts of Albus’ letter: private lessons with Snape. Harry frowned. He had never heard of Snape giving private lessons unless to Harry himself at the behest of Professor Dumbledore. Harry was uncomfortable with the idea of Albus having private lessons with Snape, though why, he couldn’t pinpoint. Albus certainly seemed to adore Snape. This fascination, if towards a female professor, would almost suggest a crush. Harry paused, then re-read Albus’ letter, then collapsed back down into the couch. His boy had a crush on Severus Snape. Why did that make Harry’s teeth clench?
At the knock at his office door, Snape bade the boy to enter. Albus Severus strode into his office and sat at the offered chair in front of Snape’s desk. They stared at each other for a moment until Albus had to look away. Snape smirked.
“Well, Mr. Potter, I have offered you private lessons and I have yet to see them bear fruit. You have done a mediocre job of the potions I’ve assigned you. I expect more from you.”
Albus’ gaze became fixed on his clenched hands; he hated to disappoint his professor.
“Is the course load too much for you?”
Albus feverently shook his head. “No sir! It’s just that… umm…” Albus quickly slammed his jaw shut over the words.
“Yes, Mr. Potter?”
“It’s nothing.”
An eyebrow slowly raised. “One would hope that a Slytherin would be better versed in deception. Now do tell me what is affecting your focus in our lessons.” Albus squirmed for a moment under Snape’s gaze.
“It’s my dad. I think he’s lonely. Ever since the divorce from Mum, he just works and sleeps. He doesn’t even go out with Uncle Ron anymore. I think he needs a friend, someone to talk to. I was hoping maybe you could talk with him, sir.” Albus looked up at Snape with what could only be called puppy dog eyes.
Snape felt something twist inside him having Lily’s eyes, Harry’s eyes, looking at him so. “Mr. Potter, Albus, I’m not sure I’m the right person to speak with your father.”
Albus exploded from the chair. “Yes, you are! Dad’s always talking about you, and he always defended you, from Mum, from everyone. The rest of Dad’s friends are all trying to be nice and give Dad his space and stuff. I know that you wouldn’t put up with his moping or excuses. He needs you.” Snape was at a loss for words at the boy’s outburst, especially at the statement that Harry would need him.
“Please resume your seat and let us discuss this. Your father will suspect you’ve a hand in things if I suddenly become his best friend and come calling to the house. We need him to leave the house and come to us. I believe it is time that we concoct a plan, a Slytherin plan.” Albus looked up at Snape and they both slowly smiled.
Potter,
No doubt your son has informed you that I have offered him private tutoring in Potions. I feel that your son has great potential and I loathe seeing it wasted on frivolous things like Quidditch. To date, your son has been performing well in his private lessons with me. Your boy takes to the cauldron like you did to that blasted broom. It pleases me to have another person in the castle that has a passion that mirrors mine. I find that I enjoy spending time with your son discussing potions; he has a quick mind for the subject. I intend to increase the frequency of our private lessons to allow time for Albus to peruse my private library. I have many texts that he would find fascinating, though he must stay in my chambers while pouring over them as some are priceless tomes. Regardless of my fond regard for the boy, he is still your son, and therefore certain precautions should be adhered to.
I must admit that I was unsurprised by the cessation of your marriage, though I am happy that you and Mrs. Potter nee Weasley parted amicably. Albus has spoken to me about the divorce and I believe it was in the best interest of all involved. Albus alluded to the fact that he would enjoy having me over to your home for dinner over the holidays. If an invitation is indeed sent, I would endeavour to make the engagement.
-S. Snape
Harry put down his butterbeer on the living room table and frowned at Snape’s letter. He assumed that Snape would gloat about the divorce. Snape and Ginny never got along, and Harry expected Snape to make some snide comments about Ginny in this letter. In lieu of the expected comments, Snape spent the majority of the letter complimenting Albus. Now that Harry thought of it, all the letters Snape sent him since Albus started at Hogwarts often featured a listing of his boy’s merits. Snape even wrote that he was fond of Albus.
Harry’s eyes narrowed as he read the letter once more. His stomach squirmed in an odd way as he read that his boy was spending time alone with Snape in the man’s private quarters. Harry gripped the letter tighter. Well, he would get to the bottom of this unlikely friendship between his son and Snape. He would just have to invite Snape over for dinner during the holidays and see how he interacted with Albus. Harry wrote a small reply to Snape, informing him that he did have an invitation for dinner. Afterwards, Harry fretted over what to make for dinner. He may not be a Potions prodigy like Albus, but he could combine ingredients into an amazing dinner, and he wanted to show Snape that.
* * * * *
Dear Dad,
Sorry I haven’t written in a while, things have been quite busy at school. Today we made Wit-Sharpening Potion in class and I received full marks for my potion. Professor Snape has invited me to his chambers this weekend where he wants me to try making a fifth year potion. I’m a little nervous about attempting a potion that is a year higher than where I currently am, but Professor Snape assured me that I am more than ready. He told me that we were going to make the Draught of Peace which is an O.W.L. level potion. Did you have to do that one on your O.W.L.s? Well, I’m looking forward to meeting with Professor Snape. Even though it’s a Hogsmeade weekend, I’d rather be making potions with Professor Snape. I’m sure if James read that he would make fun of me.
I was hoping that maybe I could get an advance on my allowance so I could buy a Christmas gift for Professor Snape?
Well, I should be going; I need to go over the ingredient list for the Draught of Peace before this weekend. Love you, Dad!
Albus Severus
Harry put down his son’s letter and ran a hand through his hair. Why did Albus continue with this crush on Snape? Didn’t Albus realize that nothing would come of it? Snape was old enough to be Albus’ grandfather; Snape went to school with Albus’ grandfather, for pity’s sake. Harry was uncomfortable with his boy spending so much time with Snape, especially now that Harry knew how they acted together. Over the summer holidays, Albus invited Snape over for dinner a number of times. Each time Snape was over, Albus smiled a little brighter and his eyes hardly left the stern man. Snape would often casually touch Albus whenever the boy was near him, which was often.
The last dinner before the children returned to Hogwarts, Harry shattered a stack of plates while serving dinner. He of course brushed it off due to his clumsiness, but really Snape was to blame. When Harry entered the dining room carrying the plates, he came across Snape standing almost toe to toe with Albus. Snape was holding Albus’ hand and speaking in a low tone to him. Harry had felt his teeth clench and his vision go red. His magic had started to crackle around him and he forced it into the stoneware in his hands in lieu of towards the couple before him.
Harry pinched his nose under his glasses, the headache associated with his thoughts of Snape and Albus started to make its presence known. The main thing that concerned Harry was that on that night he didn’t want to strike out at Snape for being so close to his son. Rather, Harry had a fleeting moment where he wanted to move Albus out of the way and take his son’s place.
As the Draught of Peace simmered, Snape motioned for Albus to have a seat on the couch in his living room.
“So I believe things are progressing well, though I didn’t imagine your father’s reaction would be shattered stoneware.”
“Yes, sir, but I think that we are much closer to having dad hit the breaking point.”
“Albus, I’m not sure that our plan is going the way we intended it. I know we wanted your father to come barrelling into Hogwarts like the reckless Gryffindor that he is, but I’m unsure of what reaction he will display. We are treading a thin line between fiction and impropriety.”
“Well, sir, to be honest, at first I just wanted dad to maybe fly off the handle a bit, then feel better for it. It’s true that he hasn’t acted according to what we initially intended, but I still think we can recover. We just need to modify our plans.”
Snape sat back and nodded to the boy, “Proceed.”
“Professor, I think that my dad may fancy you.”
Snape sat bolt up from his chair, “Surely you jest, boy. Why would you ever think such a thing?”
“Well, the fact that my dad hasn’t come to Hogwarts and attempted to punch you in the face would lead me to believe that he has some feelings for you. Plus, he still writes you, and he always makes a fancy dinner whenever you will come by. Also, didn’t you see the look in his eyes when he broke those plates at dinner? I swear it looked like he was ready to shove me away from you.”
Snape scoffed, “Surely your father wanted to push you away from me to save your virtue. While your father does make a passable dinner, surely it’s nothing outstanding.”
“Professor, normally dad makes Shepherd’s Pie, or meat and some veg for dinner. Trust me sir, I know my dad and I swear he fancies you.” Albus looked down at his hands. “Do you fancy my dad?”
Snape glared at the boy and stood up. “It is exceedingly inappropriate for me to be talking to you about this.”
“Please sir, I want my dad to be happy, and you as well.”
Snape gazed into the fire in the hearth. Could it be possible that Potter cared for him? Was the prize worth the gamble? “Yes,” Snape whispered.
Albus jerked up. “What?”
“I said yes. Now you were talking of modifying our original plan?”
Albus made a point to not look at his professor’s slightly flushed face and smiled, “Right. Well, things are pretty much in place. My dad just needs a subtle push.”
“Mr. Potter, your father is immune to subtlety. He needs a swift kick off the Astronomy tower.”
Potter,
As per your last letter: your son’s private lessons are progressing quite well. Just this past weekend he attempted The Draught of Peace, as I’m sure you recall from your Potions O.W.L. I’m pleased to say that Albus did a passable job on the potion. This is a testament to his Potions skills, as well as his ability to take instructions from me.
I feel it important to continue to nurture his passion as I once wished someone had nurtured mine. I forsee Albus doing great things in life, and I wish to ensure he is prepared as best as he can be. To that end, I am increasing his lessons with me to include all holidays save Christmas and the summer break. I have informed Albus of my desires today and he heartily agrees. I assume he is writing a letter to you at this moment to share the news. Truly, Potter, how did you manage to breed such an outstanding young man?
Albus has taken the liberty of inviting me to Christmas dinner at your home. Hopefully, there will be no stoneware sacrifices this time.
-S. Snape
Harry threw the letter away to avoid the urge to rip the parchment apart. Could Snape be any more obvious? Need he shove it in Harry’s face? Did he really think that Harry would idly sit by and let this continue to spin out of control? Harry slammed his hand down onto his desk. Things had gone too far, and it was time for Harry to take things into his hands and put everything into place.
Harry pulled out his pocket watch; he would be able to make it to Hogwarts in time for Sunday lunch. Making a quick stop in the bathroom, Harry grabbed his cloak and Apparated to Diagon Alley. He had to make a swift stop before heading to Hogwarts.
Harry stormed down the corridors of Hogwarts, his cloak fanned out behind him as he made his way towards the dungeons. Once he reached the dungeons, he located Snape’s office and then tossed the Invisibility Cloak over himself. He quickly tossed back the potion he held in his hand, and Transfigured his clothing under the cloak. Checking the corridor to ensure it was empty, Harry approached Snape’s office door and knocked once.
Harry heard the deep tones of Snape voice as he bid him to enter. Harry made quick work of discarding the Invisibility Cloak and slowly opened the door.
Snape looked up at Harry as he entered and put down the quill he was using. “Albus, what are you doing here? I thought you were planning to watch the Quidditch practice.”
“Oh, well, I guess I… er… wanted to come see you.” Harry inwardly cringed.
“Are you feeling alright, Albus? You usually aren’t this inarticulate.”
Harry shrugged, “I feel fine, sir, is it alright for me to be here?”
“I don’t see why not. I suppose since you are here you can help me with some Burn Salve that I’m making for Madam Pomfrey.” Snape stood and collected his cloak from the chair and led Harry to his private potions laboratory. Snape motioned to the desk where the ingredients were laid out.
“Albus, you can start by chopping the aloe while I ready the base.” Harry took up the knife and hoped that he wasn’t mangling the plant too much. Snape appeared behind him after the cauldron was placed over the low fire.
“Albus, whatever are you doing? I’ve hardly seen a poorer attempt at chopped aloe. Have you lost your senses?”
Harry gulped, “I’m not sure, sir; maybe you could show me how again?”
Snape snorted, stepped up, and pressed his upper body to Harry’s back. Snape’s hand came to rest over Harry’s on the knife, and Snape slowly cut the plant. Harry madly attempted to keep his breathing steady; his heart rate was a dead giveaway.
Snape lowered his head and his lips almost caressed Harry’s ear.
“Now, notice how lightly I hold the knife. There’s no need to throttle the knife, a nice light touch is all that’s really needed.”
Harry managed to not slump back onto Snape by sheer will power alone. Snape’s silky voice reverberated from Harry’s ear to his toes and then took residence in his cock.
“Now, Albus, you need to make sure you’re close to your workstation. This way you have proper body mechanics.”
Snape pressed his full length against Harry, and Harry staggered until his hips met the wood of the desk. Harry gasped as Snape’s free hand knotted into his hair and pulled his head back. Rolling his eyes to meet Snape’s, Harry was met with black pools of desire. Harry looked away and had to close his eyes to the sight. Snape had this passion, but not for him -for Albus. Harry clenched his fists on the desk as Snape nuzzled his neck. He had to stop this.
“Wait, we ca-can’t do this.” Harry managed to free his hair- Albus’ hair- from Snape’s grasp and turned to face the dark haired man. Snape was wearing an expression of exacerbation, “Honestly, Potter, how much longer were you planning to allow things to keep going? As similar to you as Albus looks, I don’t relish the idea of deflowering him to suit your suspicions.”
Harry took a breath to lash out at Snape for…“Wait, what?”
Snape stepped back from Harry. “Did you truly believe that I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between Albus Potter and someone Polyjuiced as him, even if it was his father? I’m a Potions Master, as well as the private tutor to the boy. One should hope that I wouldn’t be deceived so easily.”
“You knew it was me the whole time?”
“Indeed.” Harry gaped at Snape, then became conscious of the fact that he was still standing in the circle of the man’s arms.
“But why did you touch me, him, whatever?”
Snape leaned forward and whispered,“Because, Harry, I knew it was you.” Harry sputtered. “Now why don’t we adjourn to my private chambers to wait for the Polyjuice to wear off?”
Snape moved away from Harry and headed to the door. Once Harry’s brain got back on track, he hastily followed after Snape.
* * * * *
Sitting on Snape’s couch waiting for the Polyjuice to wear off felt like slow torture. Snape didn’t help that feeling by sitting in the armchair, watching Harry with a heated look. Harry squirmed in the Slytherin uniform and hoped that the potion would run its course soon.
“You may wish to transfigure your clothing prior to the change,” Snape offered helpfully.
Harry looked down at the uniform, Albus was smaller than Harry, and failing to modify his clothing would result in an embarrassing lack of full coverage. Harry stood, removed his wand and Transfigured the trousers back to his original set. Lurching forward, Harry felt the change come over him and he shot a quick look at Snape. Snape had a wicked smirk on his face as he sat back to wait out the change.
Once the change was complete, Harry looked up at Snape, who had a glint in his eyes. The uniform shirt strained over his shoulders, but Harry took his time unbuttoning it while keeping an eye on Snape. Once the buttons were free from their holes, Harry loosened the Slytherin tie from the collar and let the shirt fall to the floor at his feet.
Standing in front of Snape with nothing but a pair of trousers and a Slytherin tie was a heady feeling for Harry. Harry slowly stalked around the coffee table and presented himself to Snape’s unwavering gaze. Fighting the urge to fidget, Harry lifted his head and met Snape’s eyes. He was almost knocked over at the intensity that he saw.
“Now this is much more like it,” Snape purred as his hand smoothly stole over the tie around Harry’s neck. Snape’s hand closed around the silk at the base of the knot and pulled Harry down to him.
Their lips met in a slow, tentative kiss that quickly gained in passion. Harry straddled Snape’s hips on the chair, and his fingers laced though the dark strands of hair. Harry dove at Snape, a savage kiss which felt like they were each attempting to consume the other.
Teeth bit into lips, tongues entwined, bodies writhed, and breath became ragged.
Snape broke away from the kiss. “I think we should continue this somewhere more comfortable,” he said breathlessly.
Harry kissed Snape again. “God, Snape, I…”
“Severus, call me Severus, Harry. I want to hear you scream my name.”
Harry gave a shuddered breath, "Severus."
A moan passed Severus’ lips at hearing his name from Harry’s lips.
Harry stood and offered a hand to Severus, and they made their way into the bedchamber.
Harry began to make quick work of the buttons on Severus’ waistcoat and then the shirt underneath. Impatiently, he pushed off the offending clothing and took a moment to take in the skin he unveiled. A small network of thin, white scars traced their way along Severus’ torso, the worst by far being the snakebite scars at his throat. Harry’s hand followed where his eyes had mapped before. Leaning forward, Harry let his tongue do the same. Gently, he tasted Severus’ skin; he traced the line of each scar. Harry peppered kisses over Severus’ chest and then kissed over the snakebite scars.
Severus gently pulled Harry back up to indulge in another languid kiss. The kiss once again became hotter, rawer, and Severus walked Harry back towards the bed. Harry fell back onto it and Severus followed and bent to worship Harry’s chest and stomach. Looking up at Harry for permission, Severus placed his hand over the button of Harry’s trousers. At Harry’s shaky nod, Severus slowly freed Harry from his trousers and pulled his pants down with them. When Harry made to sit up to remove the tie, Severus placed a hand on his chest and pushed him back down.
“Leave the tie on.”
Harry moaned and helped Severus remove his own trousers and pants. Once they were both naked, Severus lowered himself onto Harry and they both groaned at the sensation. Their bodies fit together perfectly: chest to chest, hip to hip, cock to cock. Only the Slytherin tie remained the difference between them.
Their mouths met in a crushing, breath-stealing kiss and then Severus moved to lavish attention onto Harry’s neck. Severus licked, sucked and grazed his teeth over the soft skin and muscle beneath him. Harry arched into Severus and wrapped his legs around him. Severus started a slow rocking motion, and they both hissed passionately at the friction on their cocks. Severus’ hand appeared in front of Harry’s face, and Harry latched onto his wrist and began to suck on the fingers presented to him.
Severus bit down on Harry’s neck, and Harry gasped,“Oh God, Severus, please!”
Removing his fingers from Harry’s mouth Severus snaked his hand between the two of them. He grasped their cocks together and squeezed. Harry wrapped his arms around Severus, and moaned. Severus started to pump his hand up and down their twinned cocks and Harry tightened his legs around Severus and clawed down his back with his fingernails. Severus sped up his hand and both men rocked against each other.
“So close, S-Severus.”
The precome leaking from both their cocks helped ease the glide of Severus’ hand. Harry moved his hands to clench in Severus’ hair and brought the man down into another searing kiss. Suddenly, Harry broke away gasping: “Severus!” And his come spurted into the tight gap between them.
At Harry’s completion, Severus groaned deep in his throat, and, moments later, his seed joined with Harry’s. Severus freed his hand from between them and collapsed partially onto Harry. They lay there catching their breath, Harry’s hand stroking down Severus’ sweaty back.
“Wow! That was, wow!”
Severus snorted, “Articulate as always, Harry.”
“I think I’m allowed in this case. Wow!" he repeated with a smile.”
Severus leaned over the bed to fetch his wand and he cleaned them both of the come.
“Are you ok with this, Severus?”
Severus rolled to his side to look at Harry. “Yes, of course; are you?” A note of uncertainty lingered in Severus’ words.
Harry stroked Severus’ flank. “Oh, yes. I wondered why I got so upset when I received yours and Albus’ letters. I think I was jealous, which was ridiculous, I mean Albus is my son and your student.” Harry shook his head but then caught Severus smothering a smirk. “Wait a minute! You knew?”
Severus raised a placating hand and then rested it on Harry’s hip. “I’ll have you know that the majority of this was plotted and orchestrated by your son.”
Harry’s mouth dropped open in shock. Certainly, he knew Albus was a Slytherin, but he thought he would have been tempered by the overwhelming levels of Gryffindor in his blood. It appeared not. Harry was distracted from his thoughts as Severus began to run the tie though his fingers. Well, maybe not all Slytherin plots were that bad.
-end-
Think you know who the lovely and talented writer of this piece is? Let us know! snarryathon@googlemail.com
There is a prize for the person with the most correct guesses! (Please remember to include the fic name in the title of of the email) Need a reminder of the participants?