SNARRY-A-THON10: FIC: The Mentor Title: The Mentor Author:lilyseyes/lilyeyes Rating: NC-17 Word Count: 7,200 Warnings: *AU, EWE, Teacher/student, first time* Prompt: Prompt #232: Harry back for his eighth year to sit his NEWTS and McGonagall asks Snape to mentor him - she's afraid he's not acclimating well after the war. Snape, being Slytherin and all, sees other opportunities. Summary: See prompt. A/N: Beta'd by rakina and florida_minxie - thank you, darlings!
The Mentor
Gingerly tugging the high collar of his tailored robes over the still healing wounds on his neck, Headmaster Severus Snape stepped back to survey himself in the mirror. The Wizengamot had been generous in its award when the Chosen One himself faced them down and told the idiots that he was a hero. Accolades and honors had followed and, much to his disgust, Severus had suddenly found himself the new darling of the Wizarding world. Taking advantage of the prestige, he had pressed the Board of Governors to restore him to Headmaster and ready the school for a September the first opening. Once again, it had been Harry Potter who added his voice in support of Severus.
Today was the first of September and the Hogwarts Express should be pulling into the Hogsmeade Station in precisely seventeen minutes. Aboard that train would be eighteen-year-old Harry Potter, who had turned down a special waiver to enter into the Auror program without completing his NEWTs – an offer that Ronald Weasley had jumped at. The majority of last term's seventh year students were returning to repeat the year, as well as Potter and Hermione Granger, with Severus' blessing.
In the months since the final battle, Potter had become a recluse, quite a trick with the crush of public interest, Severus noted as he descended the staircase into his office. There had been no wedding, as the gossips had predicted, between Potter and the youngest Weasley. Instead, there had been a quiet elopement of the chit and the Thomas boy, who had joined the Auror program as well. The new bride had been allowed back for her seventh year despite her well-publicized pregnancy… with restrictions, of course.
Minerva joined him at the bottom of the moving staircase and Severus gifted her with a rare smile. They had rehashed the events of the past year over whisky-spiked tea the first evening Severus had been allowed out of the Hospital Wing and he was glad to have the witch on his side once more.
"I am concerned about young Mr. Potter, Severus." His deputy laid a hand briefly on his arm. "He has been preoccupied and even a bit depressed when I have spoken to him as of late. Harry seems a bit adrift, if you understand my meaning."
Severus snorted. What could possibly be distressing to a young man who had the world at his feet? Potter certainly didn't lack attention or - he ignored the twinge in his own chest - affection. And who didn't love the Chosen One? Severus thought, scowling as he pushed the inappropriate thoughts back to the dark corner they had crept out of.
Minerva smacked his arm, giving him a look that would have quelled a lesser person. "If you weren't still blinded by Harry's physical resemblance to James, you would have seen how much like Lily he is and how much the two of you actually have in common." The witch narrowed her eyes at him as they walked. "You're the one who told me about the Muggles' treatment of him, Severus, and I know it reminded you of your own childhood! He's lost everyone who was supposed to love him unconditionally, even for Granger and Weasley to an extent. They are too wound up in each other to notice that they've shoved him aside." Minerva glanced at him slyly. "Poor bairn even seems to be struggling with how to take his place in life, his own identity, Severus, and being one who truly understands, I believe you need to take him in hand, if you know what I mean."
Severus stopped as they stepped down into the Entrance Hall, giving his deputy a withering look. "You want me to teach the brat the ways of life? He is a student, Minerva!"
"Not technically, Severus, Harry is part of an adult study group." Minerva adjusted her hat minutely. "And really, it's called mentoring." With that she strode into the Entrance Hall.
"Conniving old tabby!" Severus muttered under his breath as he followed her, intrigued despite himself.
The conversation was forgotten in the commotion of the house-elves' last minute flurry of activity and the arrival of the students. Hagrid brought the first years in by way of the lake and the regular students arrived via the Thestral-drawn carriages. The returning eighth year students, the veterans of the Battle of Hogwarts, were allowed to Floo directly to their common rooms or Apparate to the front gates. Potter had obviously chosen to Apparate, as he entered into the Hall just as the last of the first years was being sorted into Hufflepuff. Instead of making a grand entrance, Potter slipped in surreptitiously to seat himself next to Granger.
The boy did look thin, Severus thought idly as he rose to make his speech. The young man, as if aware of his scrutiny, flashed Severus a tired smile. Startled, Severus felt the corners of his mouth twitch upwards before he could school them into a scowl. Perhaps there was some redeeming value to taking on Harry Potter and educating him to the way of genteel Wizarding society – one half-blood to another.
Rising to his feet, Severus moved to the podium in front of the Head Table. The loud murmur of voices didn't abate and Severus raised his wand to cast a Sonorus spell. He cleared his throat, delighted when absolute silence fell over the vast Hall and all the eager young faces looked up at him.
"Greetings. On behalf of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and its staff, I would like to welcome you."
A twitter of laughter from behind him made Severus want to roll his eyes. Albus Dumbledore he was not, and they would just have to live with his lack of oratory skills.
"This year marks the start of a new era at Hogwarts: peace. An era with no megalomaniac interfering with the curriculum and the varied factions within the Wizarding world finally uniting to rebuild and reshape our world. I expect no less than that spirit of cooperation between the Houses and amongst you. This is an institute of learning, and learning is what we expect of each of you. To accomplish this, I suggest you familiarize yourselves with the rules and regulations of this school."
Severus took a moment to scan the assembly, ignoring the smirks from the Slytherins and the scowls from the Gryffindors. "Enjoy your dinner."
Reseating himself, Severus ignored the scathing look Minerva was giving him and waved his hand to start the meal.
"Honestly, Severus, they are children, you realize."
Severus' eyes seemed to dart to the Gryffindor table of their own volition, taking in Potter seated quietly at the end, Granger serving both of them from a platter of meat, with Longbottom seated across from them. The past seven years had matured all of them beyond their years, especially Potter, who had been tested at every turn from the first time he'd stepped into the castle. Minerva meant well and Severus supposed a little coddling would not be counterproductive.
"Fine, you can give them the 'go to bed' speech after we eat," Severus muttered as the food appeared before them. "And I'll have a second glass of wine!"
His deputy snorted into her tea but didn't answer and Severus contented himself with the thought of having the last word, a rarity with Minerva.
Severus smirked as Minerva admonished the students on their decorum and demeanor, dismissing them with the instructions to proceed directly to their dorms and sleep. His eyes caught movement from the Gryffindor table and Severus turned his head slightly to watch Granger lecturing Potter. The repeated punctuation of the air with her index finger seemed a bit much, and Severus swore that Potter's eyes seemed to glaze over as the dissertation continued. To say the boy was disinterested in the topic was an understatement as Potter began to edge away from his best friend.
Recognizing that his prey was poised to flee, Severus stood to signal the end of the Welcoming Feast and strode down the aisle, just as Potter stood. Severus slowed slightly, allowing Potter to step into his path and then colliding with him.
"Potter!"
Severus sneered as the boy turned into his arms and pressed against him in an effort to regain his balance. No, make that the young man, Severus thought, as his hands grabbed Potter's arms to brace him. Although a very underweight young man, in his opinion. He narrowed his eyes at the bowed head, trying to remember if he'd actually seen Potter eat anything at dinner.
"I'm sorry, Headmaster. I didn't see you there." Potter's voice was neutral, lackluster even as he finally regained his feet and stepped back away from Severus.
"My office, Mr. Potter, in ten minutes!" Detention! hung in the air between them and Severus was surprised to see the shadow of a smile on Potter's face.
Spinning on his heel and tuning out the cries of outrage from the Gryffindor table, Severus strode out of the Great Hall, his over-robe swirling around him. Making his way back up to his office, Severus slid the over-robe off and hung it up, straightening his frock coat. From what he knew, Minerva's idea of a mentor would be one that was less formal than a teacher, designed to put the young man at ease. Or off his stride, Severus smirked. Keeping Potter off balance might serve to get to the heart of his difficulties in a more timely fashion.
Seating himself behind the large desk, Severus unrolled the scroll that showed the students who had not yet arrived at Hogwarts. The Muggle-borns were all present, he was relieved to see, but two half-blood students and a pure-blood third year had failed to arrive. Summoning parchment, Severus quickly composed three short missives inquiring as to when the students would present themselves at school. The tap of his wand summoned a house-elf and Severus ordered tea and the letters delivered.
The wards alerted him when Harry Potter stepped onto the circular staircase and Severus straightened his collar as he rose to his feet, moving to the front of the desk. The rap on the door was perfunctory and Severus paused for several seconds before responding. It was the neutral-masked Chosen One who stepped into the office as Severus bade him to enter.
"Professor Snape," Potter greeted him quietly, standing just inside the door, his eyes making a cursory inspection of the office.
"Please be seated, Potter." Severus directed him, keeping his own face just as expressionless. "Tea?" He tapped his wand on the top of his desk.
The widening of the boy's eyes was comical as a cup and saucer appeared on the table in front of Potter. It was milky and sweet, no doubt. A steaming mug of black tea appeared at Severus' elbow and he slid his wand back into his sleeve. His eyes never left the young face as Potter sat silently, hands folded in his lap. Severus took the time to assess him, noting the dark circles under his eyes and how pale his face was. Minerva was wrong, however, Severus was pleased to note. This young man actually favored his mother when you got past the nest of unruly hair and thick glasses. Something Severus had failed to do before, to his shame.
Severus watched the young man fidget over the top of his mug, wondering how long it would take Potter's renowned Gryffindor courage to kick in. He was almost finished with his tea before Potter leaned forward and broke the relatively tension-free silence.
"Was there something you needed, Headmaster?"
The tone was moderate and without inflection. Severus found himself wondering where the insolent brat of a year ago was. There was a rustle through the portraits of past headmasters as they feigned sleep in their frames. An angry, hateful Potter was one Severus could goad into making mistakes and missteps. Severus frowned as he met the green eyes.
"I wanted to thank you for securing and warding my memories inside the Pensieve, Mr. Potter. It was appreciated."
Potter stared at him, blinking once, before sitting back in his chair. Severus was pleased to have thrown the boy off his stride, but was careful to keep his face neutral.
"I…you're welcome, sir. Professor Dumbledore taught me a lot about Pensieves during my…during that last year."
Nodding Severus stood up; wanting to skirt what was an emotional issue for both of them. "Nevertheless, I am grateful for the care you showed them, as a number of them were rather important to me."
"Yes, sir, if that was all…" Potter stood, obviously not wanting more discussion of such an awkward subject.
"Actually it isn't, Mr. Potter," Severus said softly, moving around to the front of the desk and making the boy sit again as he stepped in front of him. "I have been asked to augment your education this term with lessons on how to become an integral part of Wizarding society. It seems there has been a lack in that area of your academic study while you have been here and we need to make sure it is corrected."
"A lack?" Potter looked up at him as Severus circled the chair, a spark of the old Harry in his eyes. "What do you mean a lack?"
"I mean you are lacking in the necessary knowledge to help you take your proper place in Wizarding society, Potter!" Severus continued to circle the chair. "The traditions passed down for centuries within longstanding Wizarding families like the Blacks, the Malfoys, the Princes, and the Potters. The knowledge passed from father to son."
Potter snorted. "Yeah, well, I've learned which fork to eat my salad with, Professor, if that's what you're worried about!"
Stopping in front of the chair, Severus leaned down with a hand on each arm. "I mean the traditions that say when it is polite to pull your wand in another wizard's home, and which hand you use to shake a rival's, or when the placement of a friendly hand on a witch could be interpreted as an proposal of marriage!" Severus snapped, watching as Potter's eyes followed every move of his lips.
Was it possible that Minerva had been referring to the boy's sexual orientation? At that moment a wave of arousal struck Severus most inappropriately and he straightened, suddenly glad he'd left his frock coat on. Those brilliant eyes seemed to follow his every move and Severus quickly decided to lay it all out – the boy would either flee or not.
"Or perhaps it’s more appropriate to teach you what not to do when one is navigating the waters of a same-sex relationship."
Potter pushed himself out of the chair, his eyes flaring. "I don't need any help, especially your help! I don't need to be ridiculed…"
"Have you ever been kissed, Mr. Potter? Really and truly kissed?"
"Yes! I mean, I've…"
Severus took a step closer, glad to see Potter had gained a bit of height; it wouldn't be as awkward without having to bend down so far. Potter backed against the chair, sputtering, but didn't flee.
"What are you doing? You can't… you're my teacher!"
The closeness of the young man, the sheer power radiating from him, and the yearning for something that Severus could see in the depths of those eyes combined to make Harry Potter irresistible.
"I am not your teacher anymore, Harry," Severus reminded him softly, leaning closer.
Potter tilted his face up, as if defiantly challenging him, and Severus smiled. This would at least be an experience the young man would never forget. Severus slanted his lips across Potter's, finding them dry, but warm as he rubbed across them, nibbling at the corner. His hand somehow found its way to the back of Potter's head and Potter gasped. Severus took advantage of this, sliding his tongue in to map the sweetness inside. Potter seemed frozen, but made no attempt to stop him or push Severus away.
Severus found the sensations not unpleasant. Quite the contrary, actually, and Severus was very careful to keep Harry away from the erection that was pressing hard against the placket of Severus' trousers. Just as Severus was about to pull away, a muffed moan sounded deep in Harry's throat, and suddenly the young man was responding - tentatively, but definitely responding. It was awkward, but it was something and Severus was thrilled.
Drawing back slowly, as not to spook the young man, Severus brought the kiss to an end. One hand was left strategically on Harry's shoulder to steady him as he swayed towards Severus.
"Now you have been kissed," Severus told him quietly. "You are to think about what I said, Mr. Potter, and if you decide to accept my offer, I will make myself available to you at mutually agreed times."
Severus dropped his hand and stepped back, expecting some type of histrionics from the young man. He was surprised when Harry stared at him for a moment, his lips still swollen and damp.
"Who suggested this?" There was only inquiry in the tone.
"Professor McGonagall," Severus told him with a snap. "Dismissed, Potter!"
"I…"
"Dismissed!"
Anger flashed in the brilliant eyes and Harry spun on his heel, storming out. After the door slammed with a resounding bang, Severus brushed a hand over his face as several portraits burst into applause. A soft chuckle sounded from behind him and Severus turned his head slowly to look at the portrait of Albus Dumbledore behind his desk.
"Not you too, Albus," Severus sighed, standing up carefully, his prick still hard and throbbing.
"High time someone recognized that Harry has deficiencies in his education and took him in hand, Severus." The portrait stroked its beard and Severus swore he could see those blue eyes twinkling mischievously from here.
The groan that had been trying to work its way out of his chest since he'd mapped the heated interior of Harry's mouth escaped, long and low. It seemed that the world was against him, punishing him continually for every perceived misdeed, tempting him with things that he couldn't possibly have.
"I didn't see Harry objecting to the kiss, Severus." Dumbledore, even in portrait form, seemed to be able to read his thoughts. "Although he may question your intent, Severus."
There was no question the intent his prick had, Severus thought wryly, pushing off the desk. "I will assist Mr. Potter to the extent that he seems comfortable with, Albus."
Turning his back on his mentor, Severus walked up the curving staircase to the private quarters above the office, silently vowing that his interaction with Harry Potter would take place somewhere other than here. His fingers automatically began undoing the buttons on his coat as he entered his rooms. Shedding that, Severus walked through to the bedroom as he continued to disrobe, his mind visualizing the incident in the Forest of Dean as his cock continued to throb. Potter sliding into that frigid water, the way his pants had molded to his body and Severus had felt like a voyeur, but was determined to make sure the boy retrieved Gryffindor's sword.
The water in his shower started up immediately as Severus stepped in; it was specifically spelled to the temperature he liked. Allowing the water to flow down his head and through his hair, Severus turned around and retrieved the special soap he brewed himself. Lathering his hands, Severus finally allowed himself to touch his erection, hissing as his fingers closed around the length. Closing his eyes, Severus stripped Potter naked, imagining a hairless chest and a treasure trail he could follow with his tongue, down to a nicely proportioned prick. Then his fantasy-Harry would sink to his knees and slide his lips over Severus' cock, sucking hard.
His hand sped up, tugging and twisting, and it only took a few strokes before Severus climaxed with a soul-deep sigh. Watching as the water washed his essence away in a swirl of lather, Severus couldn't help wonder if that was the closest he'd ever get to the young man – his fantasies. Shaking his head, Severus reached for the hair-cleansing potion, knowing that anything further would be up to Potter.
* * * * *
Classes started the next morning, a Wednesday, and Severus found himself bogged down in documents that needed to be filed with the Ministry. Two of the errant students had shown up, together and sheepish at breakfast that morning, and Severus was careful to assign them separate detentions, as well as detailing the telltale signs of physical intimacy between the two sixteen-year-olds in his letter to their parents. Of the pure-blood fifth year, Severus had not had any word, and would have to make a trip to Wiltshire tomorrow to visit the boy's parents.
He'd eaten his dinner from a tray that evening, confident in Minerva's ability to handle dinner in the Great Hall while he finished up the seemingly endless scrolls of parchment. A large barn owl sat silently on the windowsill, waiting patiently as Severus gathered the completed forms and tucked them into a post bag.
"The Ministry of Magic, Department of Education," Severus instructed tersely, allowing the bird to take flight before closing the window.
Severus was watching the Thestrals circle above the canopy of the Forbidden Forest when the wards announced that someone was coming up the spiral staircase. A frown creased his face when the individual was identified as Harry Potter. Crossing his arms over his chest, Severus stood in front of the window, waiting for the abrupt knock on the door.
"Come!"
The young man was clad in student robes and uniform, Gryffindor tie askew at his collar. Stepping through the door, Severus was rather impressed when Potter marched in with determination, slamming the door shut behind him. Severus arched an eyebrow as he heard the snick of a nonverbal, wandless locking charm and dropped his arms to his side. There were times when he was ruthlessly aware that Harry was the most powerful wizard alive.
"Do come in, Mr. Potter," Severus said dryly.
"Professor Snape, I need to ask you a question about the 'tutoring' you're offering."
"Of course, Harry." Severus dropped his voice to an octave that he'd been told before was pleasing.
Harry swallowed before regaining the determined look. "Hermione says mentoring can be a rewarding experience, provided the intention is to help."
Severus barely restrained the snort dying to escape, simply dipping his head in agreement instead.
"And I just want to make sure you're not doing this with the intent to ridicule me or to be able to tell people how socially inept I am."
Ah, the innate insecurity that Severus had seen brief glimpses of before had surfaced! "What happens between us in our mentoring relationship stays between us – and that includes Miss Granger – until we both agree to make it public."
Those brilliant eyes swept across his face and Severus was glad the boy hadn't managed to learn Legilimency. "All right, then there's just one other thing I want to check before we go on."
Harry moved towards him as he spoke and Severus resisted the urge to back-up against the window. Moving with deliberation, Harry reached up. His movements were self-conscious, but Severus stood still as Harry gently pulled his head down. Warm lips closed around his and Severus felt a jolt of arousal, but still remained motionless. Harry was obviously inexperienced and Severus grimaced at the wet, but enthusiastic kiss. Allowing Harry to have control for a few seconds was all he was able to manage. Severus changed the angle of their heads, looped an arm around Harry, and kissed him thoroughly. The reaction was immediate, Harry pressed against him and copied the movements of Severus' tongue. A moan low in the young man's throat made Severus' prick twitch and he could feel Harry's erection pressing against him. This could easily get out of hand, Severus knew, and destroy the carefully laid base of trust he was trying to establish. Stepping back, he slowly disengaged from Harry, steadying the young man as he swayed for a moment.
Taking a step back, Harry cleared his throat, hands restlessly straightening his robes. "So, is Friday evening good for you?" he asked, attempting a nonchalant tone.
Severus almost smiled. "Why don't you join me for lunch on Saturday? That would give us the entire afternoon for, er, lessons."
Harry nodded eagerly before fleeing from the office. Severus, ignoring the catcalls from the portraits, headed upstairs for another shower.
* * * * *
Saturday morning found Severus uncharacteristically nervous. Berating himself for his own insecurities, Severus spent the morning brewing while he deciphered the latest results from his research on a potion that would reverse the damage from Dark curses. Losing himself in his true passion, Severus was pleased with his progress when the timing charm went off.
Showering off the potion fumes, Severus found himself dressing carefully, attempting to make a balance between formal and approachable. Settling on an unbuttoned frock coat over a white shirt and black trousers, Severus was ready when the wards announced Harry's arrival. Stepping out the door to his rooms, Severus beckoned Harry to enter from the top of the staircase.
The young man entered, clad in denim jeans and a green jumper, looking around. A twitter of laughter from one of the portraits had Severus narrowing his eyes.
"Please join me upstairs, Harry, where we won't have to put up with prying eyes."
Harry grinned, pausing only to exchange greetings with Albus Dumbledore's portrait. Severus stepped back, watching Harry bound up the stairs, before ushering him into the circular sitting room. The house-elves had brought a tray with a hearty stew and crusty bread, perfect for the day that had dawned gray and wet after a week of sunshine. Severus had hoped that the day was warm enough for a walk in the hidden garden that was reserved for the Headmaster.
"Good afternoon, Professor," Harry said softly, shifting from foot to foot, seemingly overcome with shyness this time.
Waving Harry into a chair beside the hearth, Severus barely contained a laugh as he tried to figure out what the boy had done in an attempt to slick back his hair. Whatever it was gleamed in the flickering light from the fire and Severus flicked his wand, banishing it.
"Hey!" Harry yelped, half-raising from his seat as his hands flew to his hair.
"I'm much more impressed by cleanliness than I am the attempt to masquerade as an axle." Severus seated himself and poured them tea. "Surely you didn't think I'd change, did you?"
Harry accepted the cup, giving him a rueful smile. "No, I suppose not, but I had thought to be a bit more appealing to you, you know."
"Another of Granger's suggestions?" Severus sneered as he broke off a piece of bread and buttered it.
Flushing red, Harry poked his spoon into the rich broth. "No, she was, uh, busy with her own stuff today. I just remember her using the stuff on her hair for the Yule Ball and thought it might make mine look better."
"I appreciate the effort, but prefer the disheveled look to the other, unnatural one." Severus snapped. "I would not have offered this mentorship to you, Harry, if I thought it would demand one of us change unnaturally."
Brushing a hand through his hair, Harry looked at him intently. "I'm not exactly sure what a mentor does, either, sir, but I know I can learn a lot from you. If we can keep from killing each other, that is."
Severus tilted his head. Harry had a point, and it would make it extremely difficult to lure the young man into his bed if he couldn't speak civilly to him outside of it. Handing Harry the piece of bread he'd just buttered, Severus began to butter another piece for himself.
"So, tell me your opinion of the eighth year curriculum," Severus said as pleasantly as he could, preparing to be bored to tears.
Harry grimaced, but was careful to swallow before he spoke, thankfully. "Actually, it's more the way the professors are presenting the material really. Professors McGonagall and Flitwick started where sixth year ended and tested what we remembered. Which was better than that new Defense professor you hired; she figures we should all be able to pass our NEWTs now after fighting in the final battle this spring!"
It was remarkable how animated the young man's face became when he spoke passionately about something, and how utterly captivating his eyes were when they glowed from the inside during a spirited debate. The meal continued through the pudding without any of the awkward moments Severus had anticipated. Harry might not have applied his intellect in the classroom as he should, but there certainly wasn't any lack reasoning ability.
If fact, Harry managed to present a good rationale when they became embroiled in a discussion of where pure-blood supremacy had originated. It was an argument Severus had lived on all sides of, from his childhood in the shadow of a pure-blood family, when his half-blood status was worn like a badge of pride, to the dark days when he hid the knowledge that his father had been a Muggle. Harry, of course, had a completely different angle on the situation.
"But it doesn't make sense for a pure-blood to believe a half-blood or Muggleborn is inferior! Isn't the measure of person in their abilities? Three of the most magically powerful people I have known are half-bloods!"
"Albus Dumbledore was a pure-blood and you can't argue that he was the most powerful wizard of his time," Severus leaned closer to Harry who sat at the edge of his chair.
"And Vold…the Dark Lord was a half-blood and he was incredibly powerful! Just like you are!" Harry's face suddenly reddened and he looked away.
Severus smirked, remembering Harry's fascination with his Advanced Potions text. And, rumor had it, with the Half-blood Prince. "Are you considering Merlin?"
"Merlin?" Harry blinked. "His mother was a princess, wasn't she?"
"Yes." Severus was pleased with the answer. "But his second mother was a handmaiden to the princess."
"I thought he was fathered by an incubus?"
"In some stories he is, but there is a strong belief that the legend of a 'child without a father' meant that Merlin had two mothers, both of whom would have had to have powerful magic. But the maid was most assuredly either Muggle-born or, at best, half-blood."
Harry's mouth snapped closed and then opened again. "But I thought… didn't everyone… Hermione says that all pure-bloods can trace their lineage back to Merlin, but if he was a half-blood…"
Severus leaned back, his smirk containing a superior edge. "You can go down and ask Albus' portrait if you'd like. He fancied himself an expert on Merlin's genealogy."
Harry smiled broadly, before looking suddenly aghast. "Professor! Did Vold… did the Dark Lord ever have a portrait painted? Are we sure that he's not hanging on some Death Eater's wall, telling them how to start another war?"
The expressiveness of Harry's face captivated Severus, who watched it go from earnest discussion to humor to abject terror in a matter of seconds. It had been a most pleasant afternoon and Severus wasn't ready for it to end, nor did he want the setback this wayward topic was sure to throw the boy into. Any smooth transition into another topic was cast aside when Harry leapt to his feet, poised to flee the rooms.
Standing smoothly, Severus latched his hand around Harry's arm and used the boy's own momentum to swing him round into Severus' arms. Pulling Harry against him, Severus could feel the tension in the slender body, and was actually taken back by the level of concern being displayed.
"I don't believe the Dark Lord had any portraits created, Harry, nor any pictures taken either. In hindsight, it makes sense as that wasn't the type of 'afterlife' he'd have been open to."
Gradually, Harry relaxed in his arms and Severus couldn't bring himself to push him away. Severus didn't hate this Potter, hadn't in a long time, despite what he'd always told Albus. James Potter had been an arrogant arse, who Severus would have gladly eviscerated. Harry, on the other hand, had proved himself time and again to be nothing like his sire and much too much like his mother for Severus to continue to hate him.
With a subtle shift of his stance, Harry turned the comforting embrace into one charged with awareness. Not loosening his hold, Severus slid one hand up into the mass of unruly hair and tugged. Obediently, Harry tilted his head up and met Severus' eyes. The Slytherin in Severus grinned as he searched Harry's face, already flushed with arousal.
"Be sure this is what you want, Harry, and allow it to go only as far as you are comfortable. No is an appropriate word, understand?"
"I… want this," Harry's voice grew in confidence. "I want you to show me how. I want as much as you are willing to give."
Severus allowed his mouth to twist into a smirk. "Excellent, as I plan to show you everything."
Nipping at Harry's bottom lip, Severus waited for them to open before devouring the sweetness inside. Spending the time to fully reacquaint himself with Harry's taste, Severus finally allowed his hands to roam over the slender form. All sinewy muscle and compact to the point of bony, Severus lost himself to the new tastes and smells of the man in his arms, but it was the groan, pulled from deep in Harry's chest that aroused him like nothing else. An image of Harry bent over his desk in his old Potions office, with Severus fucking him hard as Harry begged flashed through Severus' mind. With a growl, Severus cupped Harry's arse and pulled Harry against him.
Pressing as close as he could, Harry's hands finally began to move, hesitantly at first, but gaining confidence as Severus' hands caressed him. A smile slipped out, turning into a moan of his own as Severus felt Harry worm his hands under his shirt, flesh on flesh. It was intoxicating; the magic seemed to flow from Harry's fingertips and dance over Severus' skin, searing across it and seeking his own. Severus was a firm believer in the legend of compatible magic being able to search out mates and bind them together. And Harry's magic felt as he'd always imagined his mate's would: intriguing, arousing, and very attuned to his own.
That thought gave him pause for a moment, until Harry's frotting against his thigh snapped him back to the present. Pulling back slightly, Severus gentled the kiss before moving to nibble down Harry's jaw. He could feel Harry's heart hammering, the hum of blood rushing through the young man's veins, and the pulse of Harry's magic beckoning him. It had been a long time since he'd had anyone this eager in his arms.
Lifting his head, Severus took in the flushed cheeks, the heaving chest, and the bright eyes practically glowing with want. "Be very sure, Harry."
"Yessss!" Harry hissed, trying to tug Severus closer.
Looping an arm around Harry's waist to keep him close, Severus led the way into the bedroom, smirking when Harry clung to him as if afraid he might escape. Severus knew there was no likelihood of that happening. Stopping next to his four-poster, Severus waved the fire up and bent to kiss Harry, a kiss full of promise, before he stepped back to work Harry's jumper over his head and toss it to the floor, plucking his glasses off at the same time.
Rubbing his hands down Harry's arms, his lips returning to plunder the sweetness of Harry's own, Severus was thrilled to feel hesitant fingers start working on the buttons of his shirt. A rush of something fierce flooded through him and Severus knew that he was on the cusp of something magnificent, something that would be worth the frustration and irritation this liaison was sure to bring. Holding himself still, Severus allowed the exploring hands as he cupped Harry's shoulders and continued to acquaint himself with those sweet lips.
When Severus ran out of patience, he broke the kiss, and pushed Harry down on the bed. Taking a moment to gain control over his ragged breathing, Severus divested himself of his frock coat and the shirt Harry had unbuttoned, and removed his boots. Grasping first one of Harry's shoes, and then the other, Severus tossed them to the floor before moving onto the bed. Rearranging Harry to recline on the pillows, Severus began to explore the warm skin.
"You will find with most, both men and women, the jaw and throat are very sensitive areas that can be very arousing – here," Severus swiped his tongue along slight stubble just under Harry's jaw, "to here." Pausing to suck on the Adam's apple, before moving to bite gently on the juncture of neck and shoulder, Severus smirked as Harry arched up off the bed.
The brilliant eyes seemed to glow with desire as Severus moved to straddle Harry's hips. Severus trailed his fingers along the hairless chest, watching Harry try to slow his gasping breath. He didn't even try to contain the smirk as he stroked the flushed skin.
"And this, Mr. Potter," Severus scraped a nail lightly over a nipple, "is what is known as an erogenous zone."
The sharp intake of air was nothing compared to Harry's reaction when Severus leaned down to suck on the erect bud. Arching up, Harry's still clothed cock brushed against Severus' and he found himself groaning in pleasure. Reaching between them, Severus quickly disposed of the jeans and his own trousers, but slid back before he was tempted to allow their cocks to slide against one another. Severus had a specific goal for this afternoon, and he couldn't afford to detour if he wanted Harry to enjoy this enough to come back.
With nothing between them, Severus returned to his lesson, mouthing the other brown nipple to stiffness before continuing his exploration of Harry's torso. Tongue-fucking Harry's navel had the boy twisting and moaning.
"That is another sensual area, as is the inner thigh and behind the knee." Severus skipped over the twitching erection to cup Harry's balls.
"Please! Sir!" Harry thrust his hips up, pleading.
Leaning forward, Severus kissed him hard. "Here you may call me Severus."
Harry's eyes, dilated with desire, blinked owlishly at him. "S… Severus!" He gasped.
A smug smile on his face, Severus Summoned a vial of lube from the bedside table and settled himself between Harry's thighs, whose legs fell open in silent invitation. Coating his fingers, Severus stroked an oiled finger over the soft skin behind Harry's sac, running his tongue up the hard shaft as he worked his finger back.
"And this simply feels divine." Severus closed his lips over the head of Harry's prick and sucked hard, allowing the snap of Harry's hips to thrust it deep into his mouth as his finger circled Harry's entrance.
It took only twice before Harry exploded, filling Severus' mouth with his release. Swallowing greedily, Severus eased back, cleaning the softening cock with gentle swipes of his tongue. His fingertip slid easily into Harry, whose muscles were relaxed in the wake of his orgasm. Pausing at the first knuckle, Severus was surprised to feel fingers hesitantly combing through his hair. His throbbing cock leapt at this unexpected touch and Severus nuzzled the inside of Harry's thigh as he pressed his finger deeper. It took only a second to locate what he was searching for and Severus smirked.
"And allow me, Mr. Potter, to introduce you to your prostate."
Curling his finger, Severus brushed lightly against the small bundle of nerve endings, feeling Harry's body jerk as the jolt of pleasure flooded through it. The fingers in his hair tightened almost painfully as Severus added a second finger and began to stretch Harry slowly. The noises Harry was making encouraged Severus, who silently cast a pair of stretching and lubricating spells that he'd learned when he was in his fifth year. His body was aching with need. Harry's magic was reaching out to him, calling to him like some ancient Siren, and Severus knew he wouldn't last long once he replaced the fingers with his cock.
His breath was becoming short as Severus slowly removed his fingers and rose to his knees, pouring more oil into his hand before carefully slicking his cock. "It would be better for you on your knees, but if you are supple and can your pull your knees to your chest, we might be able to manage."
It was gratifying how rapidly Harry moved, and Severus was unable to contain a small smile of approval, leaning forward to kiss him. "That's a good boy."
Aligning himself with Harry’s slick entrance, Severus held his breath as he pushed forward, adding pressure until the head popped through the guardian muscle. A hiss of pain made him pause and lean down to kiss Harry again, his hands moving to the slender hips. It took a few minutes before Harry began to push against him, and Severus slid with agonizing slowness into the incredibly tight heat. Fully sheathed, Severus panted, laying his head against Harry's damp forehead while they both adjusted. Then he was moving, his hips snapping forward slow and steady to start with, until Harry found his voice, squirming under him.
“Oh yes… oh yes! Right there, Sev’rus, there… fuck!”
Warmth flowed between them as Harry’s muscles spasmed around him. Gripping the slender hips, Severus thrust as deep as he could, once, twice, and groaned as his own climax surged through him. Slumping over Harry, Severus managed to roll to the side, settling them both on the mattress before collapsing.
A wave of his hand sent the prickle of a cleansing charm over them and somehow Harry ended up curled against him, head on Severus' shoulder. A hand came up to card lazily through the patch of hair in the middle of Severus' chest and he thought he might have imagined the brush of lips over the scars on his neck. Harry's magic was warm, comfortable.
"I think this mentor thing might work." Harry announced, levering up enough to pin Severus with a sharp look, his eyes seeming exceptionally green. "You aren't going to mentor anyone else, are you?"
Severus snorted, tugging Harry back down and Summoning the duvet to cover them. "I believe that you will occupy too much of my time even to consider another mentee."
The fingers returned to their soothing stroking. "And I have so much to learn, that I might have to continue my lessons even after I sit my NEWTs."
Severus smiled into the tousled hair. "I do believe it will take years to educate you in the finer aspects of Wizarding life, Mr. Potter."
"Good," Harry said sleepily. "Can we have another lesson after dinner?"
"Insatiable brat." Severus muttered, already planning out the next lesson – fellatio – as he fell asleep.