FIC for auntbijou 1 of 2
For: auntbijou
From: nolagal
Title: The Song of Surrender
Rating: NC17
Word Count: ~13,000
Summary: When Ron catches Harry in a compromising and confusing situation, he does the only thing he can-help Harry.
Disclaimer: All Harry Potter characters herein are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No copyright infringement is intended.
Warnings: Rope Bondage, elements of D/S, Ron/Hermione,
Author's Note: Happy bestmates_xmas, auntbijou, I hope you enjoy. I had a great time writing it. Many thanks to my support team of readers and betas; I couldn't have written this without them!
Part 1 of 2
He renders one helpless.
In this state of loss of control,
one can only surrender. - The Way of the Rope
Prelude
He pulled the rope over his skin, feeling the slight scratch and letting it soothe away the day's chaos. Each carefully placed knot and loop slowly restricted him. The process and the intricacy calmed him, making him forget about everything but the ropes.
He flicked his wand, sending the rope through the loops in the ceiling. Once they were in place, he laid back, letting the ropes pull him into the air. His body arched in the ropes, gravity pulling the ropes tight as his body strained to return to the safety of the bed below.
He let himself relax, feeling the constraints of the rope holding him tightly. Every moment he hung there, the stress poured out of him, leaving him floating in warmth and safety. Nothing could reach him as he drifted off, losing himself in the sensations.
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
"Harry?" Ron called out as he stepped through the fireplace into the sitting room at Grimmauld Place. He took a moment to dust the ash off his jumper then yelled for Harry again. "You ready, mate?"
Hearing no response, Ron started up the stairs toward Harry's bedroom, continuing to call out. He was grateful as always that Harry had fixed up the place and removed the house-elves' heads from the walls along with finally getting rid of the screaming portrait. As Ron approached the third floor, a loud thud came from above him along with a grunt of pain. Ron hurried faster, racing up the stairs and bursting into Harry's room.
Wand out, Ron saw Harry tied up and struggling. His heart raced as he looked for the intruder that had tried to capture Harry. He flattened himself against the doorway and scanned the room for signs of the other person. He noticed the hooks on the ceiling and realised the thud he'd heard was Harry falling onto the bed, knocking it against the wall.
"Ron," Harry said, his voice panicked and strained. "Just give me a minute, and I'll explain."
Caught off guard by Harry's words, Ron lowered his wand and looked at Harry. The ropes were undone, pooling around him as Harry covered his naked groin with one hand and held his wand with the other.
"Who did this to you?" Ron asked. "Where is he?"
Harry sighed. "There's no one else here. I'm not in danger. I just need a second, all right?"
Ron's eyes widened and he nodded, unable to find words appropriate to the situation. His heart was racing and he couldn’t calm down. Even with Harry’s reassurance that he wasn’t attacked, the scene before him was hard to comprehend. In his head, Ron was screamingwhat do you mean there's no one else?, but he had the feeling it wouldn't be appropriate to say out loud. Why had Harry done this to himself?
Ron walked back downstairs and poured himself a generous Firewhisky before taking a seat on the sofa. Harry had tied himself up and managed to suspend himself from the ceiling.
What Harry was doing seemed dangerous and wrong. Ron wasn't naïve; he had heard that some people liked being tied up for sex, but this hadn't seemed sexual at all. Harry had been naked, but he'd been alone and if his hands were tied up, he couldn't have been wanking.
What Ron couldn't figure out was how Harry'd managed to do any of it by himself. The ropes looked complicated and there was no way Harry could've suspended himself without magic. Even with magic, Ron didn't understand how it could all work or where Harry could've learned such spells.
It was much easier to dwell on how; Ron’s brain couldn’t handle trying to understand why.
Ron also knew Harry was probably upstairs freaking out over Ron's discovery. He would have to be calm and reassure Harry that nothing could drive him away. Even after years of reassurance, Ron knew Harry didn't always believe the people who cared about him weren't going away.
When he heard Harry's footsteps on the stairs, Ron stood, set his drink down, and ran his hands nervously down his thighs to dry his sweaty palms. He took a deep breath and tried to collect his thoughts. He put on his best calm and understanding expression, hoping it wouldn’t give away his remaining fear and confusion.
Harry walked through the door, head down, with a book in his hand. "Can we talk about this later?" he asked, still not meeting Ron's eyes. "We'll be late for dinner."
Ron shook his head. There was no way he could wait. He needed to know what was happening with his best mate immediately. "Just tell me what's going on. I was terrified someone was hurting you."
"I'm sorry you were scared. I lost track of time. It was just what it seemed like; I was tying myself up," Harry said, turning his back to Ron.
"Why?" Ron asked, walking toward Harry and putting a hand on his shoulder. "Why were you doing it?"
Harry took a deep breath and Ron could feel Harry shaking under his hand. "It helps."
Ron squeezed Harry's shoulder hard, trying to be supportive even though he was really confused. It was clear that Harry was upset about Ron finding out, and as much as he wanted to scream and shake Harry until he understood what was going on, Ron realised it wasn't the smartest course of action. "What does it help?"
Harry turned around then and looked at Ron. "Everything."
There was so much pain and sorrow in Harry's expression that Ron's knees buckled. He knew he wasn't the most observant person around, but how had he missed the suffering so evident in his friend's eyes? He didn't know what to say so he just hugged Harry tight to him, trying to know how to help.
Ron held Harry for several minutes, squeezing tightly until Harry relaxed in his arms. When Harry seemed calmer, Ron led him to the sofa and sat him down. "You can tell me what's bothering you, you know." He didn't want to sound overbearing or demanding like Hermione was always accusing him of being, but he did want Harry to share with him. "Or if not me, maybe the Mind Healer." They actually had a fairly nice and competent Mind Healer that worked with the Auror Department that was always available for Aurors.
Harry shook his head. "It's not anything specific. It's just as if everything builds up until I think I'm going to explode." Harry paused and looked at his feet. "This helps. The ropes. Makes me feel all right again."
"Is it safe? It doesn't look safe," Ron blurted out, then instantly wished he'd said something more supportive.
Harry handed Ron the book he'd been holding. Wizarding Bondage. Ron took it gently and flipped through the pages. There were moving illustrations of people being tied up and whipped, witches in leather spanking wizards who were gagged. Ron felt himself flush in embarrassment. He'd heard people did such things, just never seen it.
"I found it in the library here," Harry said. "I was curious and read about being tied up so I tried it on myself."
Ron tore his eyes from an image of a man bent over a large table being whipped with a cane by another man. "You want all of this," Ron said, gulping. He and Harry didn't really discuss their sex lives. Harry and Ginny had broken up several years prior, and Harry hadn't really dated since.
"I don't think so. I don't really want someone to hurt me, and it's not really about sex for me. I just like the freedom of being tied up. There are spells in there to do it yourself."
"But if you're tied up, you're not free at all," Ron said, knowing he sounded confused. He flipped through the book until he found the section on self-bondage.
"It's just the feeling of letting everything go for a while. It's just relaxing-freeing, even comfortable."
"Isn't that what's supposed to happen with all that meditation stuff Hermione's always on about? Yoga and such? That'd be easier," Ron said, trying to maintain a light tone, but feeling sure he sounded more like an anxious mum.
"It's not the same. I tried a lot of things. This is the only thing that helps me forget about the war and deal with everything else going on," Harry said, his tone pleading for Ron to drop the topic of conversation.
Ron nodded, though he wasn't sure he understood. He glanced back down at the book, reading the list of warnings given about bondage and using ropes alone. His heart leapt into his throat. It was dangerous. It gave examples of people breaking arms and legs, even dying from not properly tying the ropes or securing themselves.
"It's not safe, mate," Ron said, trying to keep the panic from his voice. "Did you read all this?"
Harry looked up at Ron, his eyes pleading for understanding. "I'm careful. I just… I need this. Please don't make a big deal out of it."
Ron stood, setting the book on the sofa so his hands were free to wring together as he paced the sitting room. "Do you ever do this with someone else?" The pictures in the book had all showed a person being tied up by someone else. "It'd be safer, wouldn't it?"
Harry turned pale and shook his head. "I went to a club once. You know, the kind of club that does this sort of thing. Muggle, of course. Just to see. I ended up really upset. Started screaming when the guy tied my hands over my head."
Ron's eyes widened. He didn't know what to say. "I'm sorry, mate."
A soft smile relaxed Harry's face. "I promise I'm careful. If you want, I'll set Surveillance Charms like we use with Teddy. It could alert you if I'm in danger; that way I'm not really alone, yeah?"
Ron's shoulders relaxed and he nodded gratefully. "I'd like that." He wanted to ask more questions, but he didn't know what to ask. There was something about Harry being alone and needing something that seemed so extreme that bothered him, but he couldn't figure out how to deal with it without isolating Harry.
"Can we go to dinner now? Before your mum and Hermione kill us for being late?"
*^*^*^*^*
"I just need to pop in here for a moment," Hermione said, pointing to a large Muggle bookstore, Waterstone's.
Ron just nodded, swallowed his sigh, and followed her inside. He'd known a day out in London would mean time in the bookstores; it always did. It would be at least an hour before his girlfriend would emerge from the stacks, a pile of books to buy. At least this was a nice, new bookstore, not the dusty old second-hand stores she liked to drag him to.
Ron made his way through the store, half-browsing as he looked for something to pass the time. He was in the Health and Wellbeing section when a book caught his eye. There was a woman on the cover, kneeling with her hands tied behind her back in an artful, erotic pose. Ron looked around him, trying to ensure no one would see him as he picked up the book and flipped through the pages.
It was similar to Harry's book, but Muggle, so the pictures didn't move and he doubted there were spells in it. There were pictures and instructions for all kinds of activities in addition to the bondage, including the more painful looking ones. Again, Ron took in the warnings and read all about "playing safe." He tucked the book under his arm and continued to browse. He found another book on just bondage with pictures and step-by-step instructions. He didn't know why he was holding the books. Maybe he would give them to Harry after he learned a bit more. He just knew he needed to know about what Harry was doing.
Deciding to get the books, Ron hurried to the nearest cashier, not meeting her eye, and handed her the books along with a book about Muggle automobiles and the little plastic card Hermione had given him to pay for things. As soon as he finished his purchase, he found the loo, tucked himself into a stall, and shrunk the new books.
The rest of the day the books burned a hole in his pocket, making Ron uncomfortable as he and Hermione ate dinner out and went to see a Muggle film. By the time they returned to their flat, Ron was going out of his mind. Making excuses about listening to a Quidditch match replay on the wireless, Ron stayed up as Hermione went to bed.
Once he was sure she was asleep or at least in bed for the night, Ron pulled out the books. His hands shook as he flipped through the pages, looking at the pictures and reading the advice. He wished he had Harry's magical volume to compare it with. A small part of him knew it was already more than curiosity, and the more he read, the more the idea formed in his mind. He'd help Harry, just like he was always supposed to. If Harry needed to be tied up to feel better, then Ron could do that. It'd be safer, and Harry wouldn't have to be alone.
The only thing that worried him was how sexual everything in the books was portrayed. He could see that people engaged in bondage activities without sexual contact, but it seemed so intertwined. How would he approach Harry about sharing something so intimate? Would Harry even want it? Ron had to admit the images of men and women bound with ropes aroused him, and he worried about what that might mean for what he would be proposing.
He also worried how Hermione would react if she knew Ron's planned to offer to tie Harry up on a regular basis. He wanted to talk to Harry before broaching the subject with Hermione. Hermione would want to find a way for Harry to stop, and Ron just knew that was the last thing Harry needed. All he knew was that he wanted to help Harry in any way he could.
*^*^*^*^*
Finding time to talk with Harry proved to be difficult. It wasn't as if he could just come up to Harry at work and say, "Hey mate, great job with that mission. By the way, do you want me to tie you up?" Not to mention, Hermione suspected something and hadn't left him and Harry alone for the entire week. Usually, she stayed at home to work while Ron and Harry spent an evening or two together, but every time Ron tried to get away, she came along.
Ron had managed to find time to conjure ropes and practice some of the knots and techniques he'd seen in the books. It was hard, intricate work, but Ron enjoyed the puzzle of it, learning how to make the images come to life, testing the feel of the ropes against his skin.
The next day, he'd be spending the whole day with Harry, and he wanted to be ready to not only discuss it, but maybe even show Harry what he'd learned.
Looking around the sitting room, Ron searched for something that was appropriately Harry-sized. The closest thing he could find was Hermione's desk chair, but that wasn't quite right either.
Thanking his Auror trainers, Ron flicked his wand and Transfigured the chair into a dummy just like they used for spell practice. With a little tweaking, the stuffed person was the right height and shape. He had a moment of guilt, realising he'd just turned Hermione's chair into Harry. It seemed disloyal somehow, even though he wasn't cheating on his girlfriend.
Ron let himself relax, feeling the conjured rope in his hands and wondered what kind of rope Harry used; was it as scratchy or as thick as Ron's? He didn't know where to start, now that he had a "person" in front of him. He flipped through the books and found a picture of someone wrapped in rope, not restricted, just decorated.
Picking up the dummy's arm, Ron started winding the rope, looping it over and around as he did. He twisted the rope into a perfect bowline knot across the chest, loving the design. When he'd finished creating the image in the book, he stood back and surveyed his handiwork. There was something rewarding and fulfilling about seeing someone-even if it was just a dummy-bound by his efforts.
Flicking his wand, he quickly untied the dummy then flipped through the book again. He wanted to try restrictive ties, since Harry would likely want something more constraining. He scrutinized the dummy, still standing in front of him, and realised he needed more movement in the limbs to try such feats.
It took a few tries but Ron managed to make the dummy more flexible. It couldn't stand on its own any longer, so Ron laid it on the floor and imagined it was Harry lying before him. Ron took in a shaky breath as his heart skipped a beat, thinking about how much he wanted it to be Harry. He couldn't quite explain why he needed to do this for his best mate, but he knew he didn't want Harry to be doing this alone.
Ron continued practising, trying a harness then wrist and ankle ties. He even managed a frog tie where the ankles were bound to the top of the thighs. He was so lost in the loops and ties that when he checked the time, he realised it was almost four in the morning.
Ron hastily returned Hermione's chair to its former state and banished the rope. When he crawled into bed, Hermione rolled over and snuggled against him. He sighed, patting her arm as he tried to get the image of binding Harry out of his mind.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron was still tired when Harry came by, Teddy racing around beside him. They were going to see Ginny and the Harpies play then spend the afternoon hanging about with Teddy.
The entire match, Ron's hands shook and his heart raced. He still wasn't sure how he was going to bring it up, but seeing Harry happy and relaxed as he enjoyed the time with his godson made Ron willing to do anything to keep Harry feeling so good.
Ron barely managed to talk with Ginny after her win. Teddy was in four-year-old heaven with all the players doting on him and giving him souvenirs from the team. Harry was still having a great time, as he always seemed to when he was with Teddy, and Ron wondered when he'd have a chance to discuss his proposition with Harry.
After ice cream and a visit to George's shop to look at his line of somewhat-appropriate toys, Harry and Ron finally dropped off a sleepy but happy Teddy with his gran and Apparated back to Grimmauld Place.
"Beer or whisky?" Harry asked before Ron could even get his bearings.
"Whisky," Ron answered and then taking a deep breath, blurted out, "I could tie you up. If you wanted."
Harry had already reached the bar, and Ron worried that Harry would drop the bottle as he stared in open-mouthed shock at Ron. "What?"
"Er, well, it's not safe to do by yourself. So you need someone to help you. And that's my job, isn't it? To help you?" Ron said, his voice was surprisingly calm even though his palms were sweaty and his heart pounded in his chest.
"Um, thank you," Harry said, his voice odd and tight. "I appreciate the offer, but you're practically married and that'd be too weird."
Ron took yet another deep breath. "Well you said it wasn't about sex for you, and I read about how some people don't shag or anything. So it'd just be that way for us, yeah?"
Harry blushed and looked at the carpet. "Sometimes it is a bit sexual, though," Harry mumbled then paused for a long moment. He lifted his head and looked at Ron curiously. "Wait, you've read more about it?"
A wave of relief washed over Ron. There was an eagerness and gratefulness in Harry's tone that was encouraging. "Yeah, I bought some books. You know, so I could understand what you needed better."
"Really?" Harry asked.
Ron pulled the shrunken books from his pockets and laid them on the table. When they'd been restored to their proper size, Harry picked up the book on bondage. "I practiced a bit, too," Ron admitted as Harry thumbed through the volume.
"You really want to do this?" Harry asked, looking at Ron in confusion and what Ron thought was hope.
Ron gave a firm nod. "I don't like you doing it by yourself, and if it helps you feel better, then I want to help."
Harry's shoulders relaxed and he gave Ron a huge smile. "I appreciate the offer, I do. But I'm not sure I'd be comfortable."
"But if not me, who?" Ron asked, confused. He felt like Harry had been about to agree.
"No one. If I would share this with anyone, it'd be you," Harry said, sounding sad and resigned. There was something final in his tone.
Ron wasn't sure what else to say, so he decided to drop the topic for the moment. "Let me know if you change your mind. Now, how about I stomp you in a game of chess?"
*^*^*^*^*
Ron's head was throbbing, and he ached all over. The last thing he remembered was investigating a rouge potions lab known for smuggling illegal ingredients and making addictive, illegal potions.
"Ron! Where are you?"
Harry's voice seemed distant, echoing off the walls in his head as Ron's surroundings slowly came into focus. Rubble and dust covered him as he remembered the explosion that had rocked the potions lab as they were investigating.
Ron looked around him and smirked. The Potions Master was bound beside him, struggling to get free from the ropes and the debris. Ron took a moment to appreciate his work, even Ron's Incarcerous spell looked artful after all the practicing he'd done with ropes. It'd been almost a month since he'd made his offer to Harry and they'd not talked about it again, but Ron kept reading and working.
"Over here, Harry," Ron called out. He stood carefully, mindful of the destruction around him. He ached all over and knew he'd be covered in bruises the next day. He'd begun to hate explosions. Especially explosions in potions labs; you never knew what was going to happen with those.
Harry was flinging debris everywhere, not aware of where it landed as he strode quickly to Ron. Ron could see a large gash on Harry's forehead, sending a small trickle of blood through his dusty cheeks. "You're all right?"
"Yeah, and I caught the guy," Ron said, kicking the captured man. "You're fine?"
As soon as Harry was close, Harry's arms were around him, squeezing Ron tightly. "You weren't answering at first, had me worried."
"Sorry," Ron said, hugging Harry back. "I think I was knocked out by the fumes for a moment. Let's get this guy back to a holding cell and then you to St. Mungo's."
Both Harry and Ron were cleaned up and checked for lasting wounds before they were released from the hospital. Hermione had come by and fretted over both of them before returning to work. They both hated hospitals so Hermione often came to keep them from leaving before the hospital said it was safe. The fact that they had a hospital routine said a lot about their job lately.
"Back to mine?" Harry asked as they reached the Apparition area of the hospital.
Ron nodded. "Sure, mate. I could use a drink."
Harry was already at his bar when Ron landed in the sitting room. Harry's Apparitions were so quick, it always amazed Ron who felt slow by comparison. Ron took the offered glass, downing the burning liquid in one gulp before collapsing on the sofa. After a moment, Ron realised Harry was pacing urgently, his face pulled in a grim expression.
"You all right, mate?" Ron asked.
Harry stopped his movements and looked at Ron. He tilted his head and began to nod then shook his head. "Sorry, just a rough day, yeah?"
"Yeah," Ron agreed, patting the sofa beside him.
Harry didn't move to take the offered seat, instead staring at Ron for a long minute. "So you'd, um, really tie me up? You know, if I wanted?" Harry asked in a panicked whisper.
Standing slowly, Ron walked to Harry and put a hand on his shoulder. "Of course, I would. Anything for you. You know that, right?" He tried for his most soothing and reassuring voice, but worried he failed miserably.
"I want that," Harry said, not meeting Ron's eyes. "Please."
A sudden panic filled Ron, and he worried about what he'd just agreed to do. "Now?" he squeaked.
Harry shrugged, which told Ron that Harry wanted it now. Of course, the fact that he asked should've been enough to tell Ron the need was immediate.
"Come on," Ron said, walking toward the stairs.
The nervousness in the bedroom was palpable, and they didn't speak as Harry opened a drawer and pulled out several lengths of rope and laid them on the bed. Harry started to remove his shirt then paused, looking at Ron for confirmation.
"Whatever makes you comfortable," Ron said, picking up a rope to test its strength and feel. It was nice hemp rope, much better than the ropes Ron had been transfiguring and conjuring.
With a nod, Harry stripped down to his pants and stood before Ron. He looked so vulnerable, even with his rippling muscles and strong chest, Ron's heart leapt into his throat. Ron nodded back and closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
"What would you like me to do?" Ron asked, hoping it wasn't something as complicated as the suspension Harry had been doing the first day. He wasn't sure he understood everything about weights and balances well enough not to hurt Harry.
Harry just shrugged then looked at the ropes then back at Ron, his eyes pleading.
"How about I just tie your wrists and ankles tonight?" Ron said, hoping he didn't sound as scared as he felt.
Relief washed over Harry's face and he nodded. Ron moved then, positioning Harry's wrists behind his back and picking up a nice length of rope. A rope handcuff was simple enough, and Ron started to wrap the rope around Harry's wrists then removed it and took a deep breath. His hands were shaking and he was no longer sure he could do this.
"It's all right if you can't," Harry said, moving his arms back away from Ron.
Ron shook his head then realising Harry couldn't see him, said, "No, I want to, just nervous is all."
With another deep breath, Ron manoeuvred Harry's hands again and began winding the rope around Harry's wrists. This time it felt right and Ron lost himself in making everything perfect and ensuring it wasn't too tight.
When Ron was done, he walked around Harry, eager to see if Harry was really all right. Harry was already breathing a little heavier and his eyes were wide. It was strange to see the most powerful wizard he knew, the man who'd defeated Voldemort, tied and under his control. Even as Ron wondered about the responsibility and trust given him by Harry, he was almost sure Harry could free himself if he needed. But this was about allowing someone else-Ron-decide what Harry needed.
"If you need me to stop, just tell me and I'll have you out of the ropes," Ron said, looking into Harry's eyes for confirmation Harry understood. "Now, lie on the bed, and I'll do your feet."
Ron helped Harry onto the bed, putting him on his side then bending his knees so that his legs would be comfortable in the bindings. Ron went slowly, winding rope up Harry's ankles to his calf, it was simple, much like what he'd done with Harry's wrists, but it was also the least likely to be harmful and the easiest to remove should Harry need to be freed quickly.
When he finished tying the knot, Ron took a step back and admired his work. It was simple but elegant, and as much as Ron didn't want it to be, it was also an erotic and arousing sight. Harry struggled for a moment and Ron rubbed a hand over Harry's arms, calming him. Harry went limp then, his whole body relaxing and his eyes closing.
Ron sat on the bed beside Harry, wanting to be where he could observe all of Harry's reactions for any sign of distress. He cast a Tempus Charm wanting to be sure that Harry didn't stay bound for too long. He didn't know what to do, so he just reclined against the headboard and waited.
"Talk to me," Harry said, his voice soft and sounding faraway.
Ron startled then looked down at Harry. Harry's eyes were still closed and his face was relaxed with a soft smile. "What about?"
"Anything, I just like knowing you're there," Harry said quietly.
Ron froze for a minute, not knowing what to say. He shrugged to himself and just started talking.
"Mum had a new letter from Charlie. He says he's coming for Christmas so Mum's having kittens getting everything ready. No use telling her it's still a few months away. Oh and I think Percy's ready to propose. He's being all weird about it, but you know how he is." Ron continued telling Harry everything he'd learned the night before when he and Hermione had stopped by the Burrow.
Before he knew it, the Tempus Charm dinged, signifying thirty minutes had passed. Ron stopped talking and ran his hand down Harry's arm. He'd read about bringing someone out and he knew he needed to go slowly. He unwound the rope binding Harry's wrists then massaged the red lines left behind gently, helping the circulation return to normal. Then he did the same thing to Harry's ankles. When Harry was completely unbound, Ron helped Harry sit up then conjured a glass of water and helped Harry drink it down.
Harry's eyes were open and bright but still held a faraway look. "Ta, mate," he said, handing the glass back to Ron and stretching. "I needed that. All of it." He looked so relaxed and calm that Ron felt a sense of pride for having helped Harry.
"Anytime," Ron said, moving off the bed and stretching himself. He felt better than he had in ages, and he wasn't even sure why.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron took a deep breath and stepped through the fire. Harry was waiting for him in the sitting room, the Wizarding book on bondage on the table. They'd agreed to talk about what Harry wanted and what Ron was comfortable with, but the idea of talking about everything made Ron's stomach churn and his heart race. They were supposed to discuss limits and safe words and all the things that made this adventure more real.
Since two nights before when Ron had bound Harry, it was all he could think about. How Harry looked in the ropes and how good he'd felt afterwards. There was a level of intimacy and trust between him and Harry now that was scary in its intensity. In many ways, he'd always been closer to Harry than Hermione, but there was a part of Ron that realised he was making the divide even greater. He hadn't told her about his new arrangement with Harry and couldn't fully explain why he was keeping it a complete secret.
"I have the books," Ron said, nervously shuffling to sit beside Harry on the sofa. He handed the two books he'd purchased to Harry then picked up the Wizarding volume and began thumbing through it. They sat in silence for several moments, both lost in thought and the books. "Tell me what you like," he added after a moment.
"This," Harry said, showing Ron the section on Japanese bondage. The woman in the photo had ropes crossing her chest in an intricate pattern that reminded Ron of a tortoise shell. Her arms were bound to her side and ropes twisted around her legs, leaving them free to move but still artfully tied.
Ron nodded. "I could do that."
They went through the books carefully after that, pointing out things they liked and then showing each other things that seemed impossible or crazy. It was comfortable and easy even though it seemed like it should've been awkward.
"What about something like this? Only with a rope harness?" Ron asked, showing Harry a picture of a man in a leather harness with a ball gag and his legs tied back, vulnerable and open.
Harry looked at it for a long moment and his cheeks flushed. "Yeah, I think I'd like that."
Ron grinned and marked the page along with several others they'd agreed on.
"Is this weird?" Harry asked, putting the book he'd been examining on the table and turning to Ron. "I mean most best mates don't tie each other up."
Ron tried to look reassuring. "It might be weird. But it's all right, yeah? We're not hurting anybody and it makes you happy. That's all that matters."
"What about you? Did you enjoy it?"
Ron closed his eyes with the memory of the rope scratching gently as he pulled it around Harry's wrists. He pictured the look of contentment that was so rare on his best friend's face and smiled. "Yeah, I did." He paused for a long moment and decided to elaborate. "Not just because it makes you happy, though that's the biggest part, but also because it's a bit of a puzzle, making the ropes fit just right. It's also a bit of strategy, placing each knot and loop perfectly. Plus, I like how taking care of you makes me feel." He blushed with the admission, turning his head away from Harry.
"Thank you."
Ron didn't know if Harry was thanking him for what he'd said or for being willing to help out. Either way, he smiled at Harry, feeling that new intimacy stretched between them in a warm comfort.
*^*^*^*^*
"Honestly, George," Ron's mum said, chastising George for pulling another silly prank at dinner, this time turning Percy completely pink.
Everyone laughed, even Percy, who had become very indulgent of George's antics over the past few years. Sunday dinner was always chaotic, and Ron loved the time spent with his family. Hermione was beside him, but not really joining in on the fun. She'd been distant lately, or rather, Ron wondered if he'd been the distant one.
Ginny's latest boyfriend was in attendance; this one a fellow named Patrick who worked as a trainer for the Harpies. The bloke seemed nice enough, but Ron could see his family once again pushing Harry toward Ginny. They'd broken up almost immediately after getting back together, and they both seemed quite happy with the decision. It wasn't talked about much, but it was also common knowledge that Harry liked blokes, too, so Ron didn't understand why his family kept trying to get them together.
"So Harry, who are you shagging these days?" George asked, elbowing Harry hard enough to knock him into Ron. Ron knew George was trying to help Harry out but also knew that would only serve to humiliate Harry in front of his family.
Harry shrugged. "Not dating anyone," he mumbled.
"Leave him alone," Ron said defensively.
George turned his grin to Ron. "Well he's practically glowing and there's only one possible reason for him to be so happy. You don't have to be dating to be shagging."
"George Weasley, that is enough," Molly spluttered.
Harry ducked his head, obviously embarrassed. Ron reached under the table and squeezed Harry's knee in support. Harry shot him a grateful smile, and Ron grinned back, ignoring everyone else around them for a long moment. He wondered if they all could see how calm and relaxed Harry seemed after being bound the previous night. Ron also wondered if there was such a visible difference in himself as well. Ron felt better, more centred and calm, than he had in ages, maybe ever.
After dinner, Harry excused himself and went outside. Ron made to follow him, but Hermione stopped him.
"You don't have to always go after him," she said.
Ron looked her in total confusion. If Harry needed him, he'd be there. No matter what. "What do you mean by that?"
"You've barely spoken to me all evening and haven't left Harry's side. Not to mention the way you were smiling at each other all night. It's me you're dating." Hermione looked annoyed and unhappy, making Ron feel guilty for ignoring her.
Ron took her hand and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I'm sorry. He's just having a rough time of it. I'm being overprotective of him."
Hermione took a deep breath and relaxed. "I'm sorry, too. I've just been feeling left out from the two of you, and letting my feelings get hurt."
Wrapping his arms around her, he kissed her head and wondered when a small concern for Harry had become more pressing than Hermione.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron surveyed his handiwork. It was their fourth session together, and they'd fallen into a ritual. Harry would bathe before Ron came over then they'd go into one of the spare bedrooms together and Ron would massage Harry, relaxing him before doing anything else.
That day, Ron had tied Harry's arms to his chest in an intricate pattern of loops and holes that showed off his firm chest. Harry's legs were open in a kneeling position with his ankles and calves tied to his thighs, the strong muscles rippling under the strain of the position. Harry's chin was resting on his chest, each breath a little shaky as the ropes constricted his movements. Harry's eyes were closed and his expression was both calm and excited, something Ron hadn't seen during their previous scenes.
Ron cast the Monitoring Charms and Tempus Charm. It was the most restrictive position they'd tried, and Ron wasn't going to take any chances. He found that he often lost himself in the process as much as Harry did and needed the reminders. He'd read more about the psychology of bondage, trying to understand not only what Harry was feeling, but also his own emotions. He found it interesting to see how restriction and loss of control actually helped Harry feel free and better in control of his life. Ron wasn't sure if he'd ever completely understand, especially about why he enjoyed it so much himself, but he was glad to be helping them both.
"You're doing so good, holding yourself just right," Ron said, knowing that praise made the experience better for both of them. He ran his hands over the ropes, feeling the slight roughness that he knew would leave red marks on Harry's skin as a reminder of their activities. He loved knowing that Harry was marked, even only slightly, and Ron had found himself watching Harry at work to see Harry's sleeves ride up and give him a glance of the burns left behind. "Just a few more minutes. That's it. Let yourself go for a little while longer."
Ron noticed Harry's erection then, pressed tightly against Harry's pants and emphasised by the ropes adorning Harry's thighs. Harry had become aroused while bound before, but there was something different, more urgent about this experience. Harry's hips were moving slightly, thrusting up as if for some friction against his hardness. Ron realised he was holding his breath, watching in utter fascination the shallow movements and the way Harry's cock shifted behind the thin cloth.
His face flushed with embarrassment when he realised he'd stopped talking to stare at his best mate's erection. He shook his head, trying to get the image out of his mind. He shouldn't find such things arousing. He'd never been interested in someone else's cock before, but something about it being Harry's seemed to make all the difference. He stood and turned away from the bed for a moment, not wanting to disturb Harry but needing to get himself under control. He couldn't be thinking these things; he had a girlfriend. But then he couldn't remember ever finding Hermione so fascinating, and that was a problem.
Ron turned to watch Harry lost in the moment. He focused on Harry's expression, looking to make sure Harry was in a good place. Seeing Harry so open and relaxed was the best part of the experience, and Ron let himself think only about comfort and safety, and soon he was as lost as Harry.
When the time came to release Harry, Ron went slowly, loosening the bonds first and rubbing Harry gently. He took his time untying Harry, not wanting the moment to end. When Harry was finally free, Ron gathered Harry in his arms and fell asleep holding him close.
Click Here for Part 2
From: nolagal
Title: The Song of Surrender
Rating: NC17
Word Count: ~13,000
Summary: When Ron catches Harry in a compromising and confusing situation, he does the only thing he can-help Harry.
Disclaimer: All Harry Potter characters herein are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No copyright infringement is intended.
Warnings: Rope Bondage, elements of D/S, Ron/Hermione,
Author's Note: Happy bestmates_xmas, auntbijou, I hope you enjoy. I had a great time writing it. Many thanks to my support team of readers and betas; I couldn't have written this without them!
Part 1 of 2
He renders one helpless.
In this state of loss of control,
one can only surrender. - The Way of the Rope
Prelude
He pulled the rope over his skin, feeling the slight scratch and letting it soothe away the day's chaos. Each carefully placed knot and loop slowly restricted him. The process and the intricacy calmed him, making him forget about everything but the ropes.
He flicked his wand, sending the rope through the loops in the ceiling. Once they were in place, he laid back, letting the ropes pull him into the air. His body arched in the ropes, gravity pulling the ropes tight as his body strained to return to the safety of the bed below.
He let himself relax, feeling the constraints of the rope holding him tightly. Every moment he hung there, the stress poured out of him, leaving him floating in warmth and safety. Nothing could reach him as he drifted off, losing himself in the sensations.
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*
"Harry?" Ron called out as he stepped through the fireplace into the sitting room at Grimmauld Place. He took a moment to dust the ash off his jumper then yelled for Harry again. "You ready, mate?"
Hearing no response, Ron started up the stairs toward Harry's bedroom, continuing to call out. He was grateful as always that Harry had fixed up the place and removed the house-elves' heads from the walls along with finally getting rid of the screaming portrait. As Ron approached the third floor, a loud thud came from above him along with a grunt of pain. Ron hurried faster, racing up the stairs and bursting into Harry's room.
Wand out, Ron saw Harry tied up and struggling. His heart raced as he looked for the intruder that had tried to capture Harry. He flattened himself against the doorway and scanned the room for signs of the other person. He noticed the hooks on the ceiling and realised the thud he'd heard was Harry falling onto the bed, knocking it against the wall.
"Ron," Harry said, his voice panicked and strained. "Just give me a minute, and I'll explain."
Caught off guard by Harry's words, Ron lowered his wand and looked at Harry. The ropes were undone, pooling around him as Harry covered his naked groin with one hand and held his wand with the other.
"Who did this to you?" Ron asked. "Where is he?"
Harry sighed. "There's no one else here. I'm not in danger. I just need a second, all right?"
Ron's eyes widened and he nodded, unable to find words appropriate to the situation. His heart was racing and he couldn’t calm down. Even with Harry’s reassurance that he wasn’t attacked, the scene before him was hard to comprehend. In his head, Ron was screamingwhat do you mean there's no one else?, but he had the feeling it wouldn't be appropriate to say out loud. Why had Harry done this to himself?
Ron walked back downstairs and poured himself a generous Firewhisky before taking a seat on the sofa. Harry had tied himself up and managed to suspend himself from the ceiling.
What Harry was doing seemed dangerous and wrong. Ron wasn't naïve; he had heard that some people liked being tied up for sex, but this hadn't seemed sexual at all. Harry had been naked, but he'd been alone and if his hands were tied up, he couldn't have been wanking.
What Ron couldn't figure out was how Harry'd managed to do any of it by himself. The ropes looked complicated and there was no way Harry could've suspended himself without magic. Even with magic, Ron didn't understand how it could all work or where Harry could've learned such spells.
It was much easier to dwell on how; Ron’s brain couldn’t handle trying to understand why.
Ron also knew Harry was probably upstairs freaking out over Ron's discovery. He would have to be calm and reassure Harry that nothing could drive him away. Even after years of reassurance, Ron knew Harry didn't always believe the people who cared about him weren't going away.
When he heard Harry's footsteps on the stairs, Ron stood, set his drink down, and ran his hands nervously down his thighs to dry his sweaty palms. He took a deep breath and tried to collect his thoughts. He put on his best calm and understanding expression, hoping it wouldn’t give away his remaining fear and confusion.
Harry walked through the door, head down, with a book in his hand. "Can we talk about this later?" he asked, still not meeting Ron's eyes. "We'll be late for dinner."
Ron shook his head. There was no way he could wait. He needed to know what was happening with his best mate immediately. "Just tell me what's going on. I was terrified someone was hurting you."
"I'm sorry you were scared. I lost track of time. It was just what it seemed like; I was tying myself up," Harry said, turning his back to Ron.
"Why?" Ron asked, walking toward Harry and putting a hand on his shoulder. "Why were you doing it?"
Harry took a deep breath and Ron could feel Harry shaking under his hand. "It helps."
Ron squeezed Harry's shoulder hard, trying to be supportive even though he was really confused. It was clear that Harry was upset about Ron finding out, and as much as he wanted to scream and shake Harry until he understood what was going on, Ron realised it wasn't the smartest course of action. "What does it help?"
Harry turned around then and looked at Ron. "Everything."
There was so much pain and sorrow in Harry's expression that Ron's knees buckled. He knew he wasn't the most observant person around, but how had he missed the suffering so evident in his friend's eyes? He didn't know what to say so he just hugged Harry tight to him, trying to know how to help.
Ron held Harry for several minutes, squeezing tightly until Harry relaxed in his arms. When Harry seemed calmer, Ron led him to the sofa and sat him down. "You can tell me what's bothering you, you know." He didn't want to sound overbearing or demanding like Hermione was always accusing him of being, but he did want Harry to share with him. "Or if not me, maybe the Mind Healer." They actually had a fairly nice and competent Mind Healer that worked with the Auror Department that was always available for Aurors.
Harry shook his head. "It's not anything specific. It's just as if everything builds up until I think I'm going to explode." Harry paused and looked at his feet. "This helps. The ropes. Makes me feel all right again."
"Is it safe? It doesn't look safe," Ron blurted out, then instantly wished he'd said something more supportive.
Harry handed Ron the book he'd been holding. Wizarding Bondage. Ron took it gently and flipped through the pages. There were moving illustrations of people being tied up and whipped, witches in leather spanking wizards who were gagged. Ron felt himself flush in embarrassment. He'd heard people did such things, just never seen it.
"I found it in the library here," Harry said. "I was curious and read about being tied up so I tried it on myself."
Ron tore his eyes from an image of a man bent over a large table being whipped with a cane by another man. "You want all of this," Ron said, gulping. He and Harry didn't really discuss their sex lives. Harry and Ginny had broken up several years prior, and Harry hadn't really dated since.
"I don't think so. I don't really want someone to hurt me, and it's not really about sex for me. I just like the freedom of being tied up. There are spells in there to do it yourself."
"But if you're tied up, you're not free at all," Ron said, knowing he sounded confused. He flipped through the book until he found the section on self-bondage.
"It's just the feeling of letting everything go for a while. It's just relaxing-freeing, even comfortable."
"Isn't that what's supposed to happen with all that meditation stuff Hermione's always on about? Yoga and such? That'd be easier," Ron said, trying to maintain a light tone, but feeling sure he sounded more like an anxious mum.
"It's not the same. I tried a lot of things. This is the only thing that helps me forget about the war and deal with everything else going on," Harry said, his tone pleading for Ron to drop the topic of conversation.
Ron nodded, though he wasn't sure he understood. He glanced back down at the book, reading the list of warnings given about bondage and using ropes alone. His heart leapt into his throat. It was dangerous. It gave examples of people breaking arms and legs, even dying from not properly tying the ropes or securing themselves.
"It's not safe, mate," Ron said, trying to keep the panic from his voice. "Did you read all this?"
Harry looked up at Ron, his eyes pleading for understanding. "I'm careful. I just… I need this. Please don't make a big deal out of it."
Ron stood, setting the book on the sofa so his hands were free to wring together as he paced the sitting room. "Do you ever do this with someone else?" The pictures in the book had all showed a person being tied up by someone else. "It'd be safer, wouldn't it?"
Harry turned pale and shook his head. "I went to a club once. You know, the kind of club that does this sort of thing. Muggle, of course. Just to see. I ended up really upset. Started screaming when the guy tied my hands over my head."
Ron's eyes widened. He didn't know what to say. "I'm sorry, mate."
A soft smile relaxed Harry's face. "I promise I'm careful. If you want, I'll set Surveillance Charms like we use with Teddy. It could alert you if I'm in danger; that way I'm not really alone, yeah?"
Ron's shoulders relaxed and he nodded gratefully. "I'd like that." He wanted to ask more questions, but he didn't know what to ask. There was something about Harry being alone and needing something that seemed so extreme that bothered him, but he couldn't figure out how to deal with it without isolating Harry.
"Can we go to dinner now? Before your mum and Hermione kill us for being late?"
*^*^*^*^*
"I just need to pop in here for a moment," Hermione said, pointing to a large Muggle bookstore, Waterstone's.
Ron just nodded, swallowed his sigh, and followed her inside. He'd known a day out in London would mean time in the bookstores; it always did. It would be at least an hour before his girlfriend would emerge from the stacks, a pile of books to buy. At least this was a nice, new bookstore, not the dusty old second-hand stores she liked to drag him to.
Ron made his way through the store, half-browsing as he looked for something to pass the time. He was in the Health and Wellbeing section when a book caught his eye. There was a woman on the cover, kneeling with her hands tied behind her back in an artful, erotic pose. Ron looked around him, trying to ensure no one would see him as he picked up the book and flipped through the pages.
It was similar to Harry's book, but Muggle, so the pictures didn't move and he doubted there were spells in it. There were pictures and instructions for all kinds of activities in addition to the bondage, including the more painful looking ones. Again, Ron took in the warnings and read all about "playing safe." He tucked the book under his arm and continued to browse. He found another book on just bondage with pictures and step-by-step instructions. He didn't know why he was holding the books. Maybe he would give them to Harry after he learned a bit more. He just knew he needed to know about what Harry was doing.
Deciding to get the books, Ron hurried to the nearest cashier, not meeting her eye, and handed her the books along with a book about Muggle automobiles and the little plastic card Hermione had given him to pay for things. As soon as he finished his purchase, he found the loo, tucked himself into a stall, and shrunk the new books.
The rest of the day the books burned a hole in his pocket, making Ron uncomfortable as he and Hermione ate dinner out and went to see a Muggle film. By the time they returned to their flat, Ron was going out of his mind. Making excuses about listening to a Quidditch match replay on the wireless, Ron stayed up as Hermione went to bed.
Once he was sure she was asleep or at least in bed for the night, Ron pulled out the books. His hands shook as he flipped through the pages, looking at the pictures and reading the advice. He wished he had Harry's magical volume to compare it with. A small part of him knew it was already more than curiosity, and the more he read, the more the idea formed in his mind. He'd help Harry, just like he was always supposed to. If Harry needed to be tied up to feel better, then Ron could do that. It'd be safer, and Harry wouldn't have to be alone.
The only thing that worried him was how sexual everything in the books was portrayed. He could see that people engaged in bondage activities without sexual contact, but it seemed so intertwined. How would he approach Harry about sharing something so intimate? Would Harry even want it? Ron had to admit the images of men and women bound with ropes aroused him, and he worried about what that might mean for what he would be proposing.
He also worried how Hermione would react if she knew Ron's planned to offer to tie Harry up on a regular basis. He wanted to talk to Harry before broaching the subject with Hermione. Hermione would want to find a way for Harry to stop, and Ron just knew that was the last thing Harry needed. All he knew was that he wanted to help Harry in any way he could.
*^*^*^*^*
Finding time to talk with Harry proved to be difficult. It wasn't as if he could just come up to Harry at work and say, "Hey mate, great job with that mission. By the way, do you want me to tie you up?" Not to mention, Hermione suspected something and hadn't left him and Harry alone for the entire week. Usually, she stayed at home to work while Ron and Harry spent an evening or two together, but every time Ron tried to get away, she came along.
Ron had managed to find time to conjure ropes and practice some of the knots and techniques he'd seen in the books. It was hard, intricate work, but Ron enjoyed the puzzle of it, learning how to make the images come to life, testing the feel of the ropes against his skin.
The next day, he'd be spending the whole day with Harry, and he wanted to be ready to not only discuss it, but maybe even show Harry what he'd learned.
Looking around the sitting room, Ron searched for something that was appropriately Harry-sized. The closest thing he could find was Hermione's desk chair, but that wasn't quite right either.
Thanking his Auror trainers, Ron flicked his wand and Transfigured the chair into a dummy just like they used for spell practice. With a little tweaking, the stuffed person was the right height and shape. He had a moment of guilt, realising he'd just turned Hermione's chair into Harry. It seemed disloyal somehow, even though he wasn't cheating on his girlfriend.
Ron let himself relax, feeling the conjured rope in his hands and wondered what kind of rope Harry used; was it as scratchy or as thick as Ron's? He didn't know where to start, now that he had a "person" in front of him. He flipped through the books and found a picture of someone wrapped in rope, not restricted, just decorated.
Picking up the dummy's arm, Ron started winding the rope, looping it over and around as he did. He twisted the rope into a perfect bowline knot across the chest, loving the design. When he'd finished creating the image in the book, he stood back and surveyed his handiwork. There was something rewarding and fulfilling about seeing someone-even if it was just a dummy-bound by his efforts.
Flicking his wand, he quickly untied the dummy then flipped through the book again. He wanted to try restrictive ties, since Harry would likely want something more constraining. He scrutinized the dummy, still standing in front of him, and realised he needed more movement in the limbs to try such feats.
It took a few tries but Ron managed to make the dummy more flexible. It couldn't stand on its own any longer, so Ron laid it on the floor and imagined it was Harry lying before him. Ron took in a shaky breath as his heart skipped a beat, thinking about how much he wanted it to be Harry. He couldn't quite explain why he needed to do this for his best mate, but he knew he didn't want Harry to be doing this alone.
Ron continued practising, trying a harness then wrist and ankle ties. He even managed a frog tie where the ankles were bound to the top of the thighs. He was so lost in the loops and ties that when he checked the time, he realised it was almost four in the morning.
Ron hastily returned Hermione's chair to its former state and banished the rope. When he crawled into bed, Hermione rolled over and snuggled against him. He sighed, patting her arm as he tried to get the image of binding Harry out of his mind.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron was still tired when Harry came by, Teddy racing around beside him. They were going to see Ginny and the Harpies play then spend the afternoon hanging about with Teddy.
The entire match, Ron's hands shook and his heart raced. He still wasn't sure how he was going to bring it up, but seeing Harry happy and relaxed as he enjoyed the time with his godson made Ron willing to do anything to keep Harry feeling so good.
Ron barely managed to talk with Ginny after her win. Teddy was in four-year-old heaven with all the players doting on him and giving him souvenirs from the team. Harry was still having a great time, as he always seemed to when he was with Teddy, and Ron wondered when he'd have a chance to discuss his proposition with Harry.
After ice cream and a visit to George's shop to look at his line of somewhat-appropriate toys, Harry and Ron finally dropped off a sleepy but happy Teddy with his gran and Apparated back to Grimmauld Place.
"Beer or whisky?" Harry asked before Ron could even get his bearings.
"Whisky," Ron answered and then taking a deep breath, blurted out, "I could tie you up. If you wanted."
Harry had already reached the bar, and Ron worried that Harry would drop the bottle as he stared in open-mouthed shock at Ron. "What?"
"Er, well, it's not safe to do by yourself. So you need someone to help you. And that's my job, isn't it? To help you?" Ron said, his voice was surprisingly calm even though his palms were sweaty and his heart pounded in his chest.
"Um, thank you," Harry said, his voice odd and tight. "I appreciate the offer, but you're practically married and that'd be too weird."
Ron took yet another deep breath. "Well you said it wasn't about sex for you, and I read about how some people don't shag or anything. So it'd just be that way for us, yeah?"
Harry blushed and looked at the carpet. "Sometimes it is a bit sexual, though," Harry mumbled then paused for a long moment. He lifted his head and looked at Ron curiously. "Wait, you've read more about it?"
A wave of relief washed over Ron. There was an eagerness and gratefulness in Harry's tone that was encouraging. "Yeah, I bought some books. You know, so I could understand what you needed better."
"Really?" Harry asked.
Ron pulled the shrunken books from his pockets and laid them on the table. When they'd been restored to their proper size, Harry picked up the book on bondage. "I practiced a bit, too," Ron admitted as Harry thumbed through the volume.
"You really want to do this?" Harry asked, looking at Ron in confusion and what Ron thought was hope.
Ron gave a firm nod. "I don't like you doing it by yourself, and if it helps you feel better, then I want to help."
Harry's shoulders relaxed and he gave Ron a huge smile. "I appreciate the offer, I do. But I'm not sure I'd be comfortable."
"But if not me, who?" Ron asked, confused. He felt like Harry had been about to agree.
"No one. If I would share this with anyone, it'd be you," Harry said, sounding sad and resigned. There was something final in his tone.
Ron wasn't sure what else to say, so he decided to drop the topic for the moment. "Let me know if you change your mind. Now, how about I stomp you in a game of chess?"
*^*^*^*^*
Ron's head was throbbing, and he ached all over. The last thing he remembered was investigating a rouge potions lab known for smuggling illegal ingredients and making addictive, illegal potions.
"Ron! Where are you?"
Harry's voice seemed distant, echoing off the walls in his head as Ron's surroundings slowly came into focus. Rubble and dust covered him as he remembered the explosion that had rocked the potions lab as they were investigating.
Ron looked around him and smirked. The Potions Master was bound beside him, struggling to get free from the ropes and the debris. Ron took a moment to appreciate his work, even Ron's Incarcerous spell looked artful after all the practicing he'd done with ropes. It'd been almost a month since he'd made his offer to Harry and they'd not talked about it again, but Ron kept reading and working.
"Over here, Harry," Ron called out. He stood carefully, mindful of the destruction around him. He ached all over and knew he'd be covered in bruises the next day. He'd begun to hate explosions. Especially explosions in potions labs; you never knew what was going to happen with those.
Harry was flinging debris everywhere, not aware of where it landed as he strode quickly to Ron. Ron could see a large gash on Harry's forehead, sending a small trickle of blood through his dusty cheeks. "You're all right?"
"Yeah, and I caught the guy," Ron said, kicking the captured man. "You're fine?"
As soon as Harry was close, Harry's arms were around him, squeezing Ron tightly. "You weren't answering at first, had me worried."
"Sorry," Ron said, hugging Harry back. "I think I was knocked out by the fumes for a moment. Let's get this guy back to a holding cell and then you to St. Mungo's."
Both Harry and Ron were cleaned up and checked for lasting wounds before they were released from the hospital. Hermione had come by and fretted over both of them before returning to work. They both hated hospitals so Hermione often came to keep them from leaving before the hospital said it was safe. The fact that they had a hospital routine said a lot about their job lately.
"Back to mine?" Harry asked as they reached the Apparition area of the hospital.
Ron nodded. "Sure, mate. I could use a drink."
Harry was already at his bar when Ron landed in the sitting room. Harry's Apparitions were so quick, it always amazed Ron who felt slow by comparison. Ron took the offered glass, downing the burning liquid in one gulp before collapsing on the sofa. After a moment, Ron realised Harry was pacing urgently, his face pulled in a grim expression.
"You all right, mate?" Ron asked.
Harry stopped his movements and looked at Ron. He tilted his head and began to nod then shook his head. "Sorry, just a rough day, yeah?"
"Yeah," Ron agreed, patting the sofa beside him.
Harry didn't move to take the offered seat, instead staring at Ron for a long minute. "So you'd, um, really tie me up? You know, if I wanted?" Harry asked in a panicked whisper.
Standing slowly, Ron walked to Harry and put a hand on his shoulder. "Of course, I would. Anything for you. You know that, right?" He tried for his most soothing and reassuring voice, but worried he failed miserably.
"I want that," Harry said, not meeting Ron's eyes. "Please."
A sudden panic filled Ron, and he worried about what he'd just agreed to do. "Now?" he squeaked.
Harry shrugged, which told Ron that Harry wanted it now. Of course, the fact that he asked should've been enough to tell Ron the need was immediate.
"Come on," Ron said, walking toward the stairs.
The nervousness in the bedroom was palpable, and they didn't speak as Harry opened a drawer and pulled out several lengths of rope and laid them on the bed. Harry started to remove his shirt then paused, looking at Ron for confirmation.
"Whatever makes you comfortable," Ron said, picking up a rope to test its strength and feel. It was nice hemp rope, much better than the ropes Ron had been transfiguring and conjuring.
With a nod, Harry stripped down to his pants and stood before Ron. He looked so vulnerable, even with his rippling muscles and strong chest, Ron's heart leapt into his throat. Ron nodded back and closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
"What would you like me to do?" Ron asked, hoping it wasn't something as complicated as the suspension Harry had been doing the first day. He wasn't sure he understood everything about weights and balances well enough not to hurt Harry.
Harry just shrugged then looked at the ropes then back at Ron, his eyes pleading.
"How about I just tie your wrists and ankles tonight?" Ron said, hoping he didn't sound as scared as he felt.
Relief washed over Harry's face and he nodded. Ron moved then, positioning Harry's wrists behind his back and picking up a nice length of rope. A rope handcuff was simple enough, and Ron started to wrap the rope around Harry's wrists then removed it and took a deep breath. His hands were shaking and he was no longer sure he could do this.
"It's all right if you can't," Harry said, moving his arms back away from Ron.
Ron shook his head then realising Harry couldn't see him, said, "No, I want to, just nervous is all."
With another deep breath, Ron manoeuvred Harry's hands again and began winding the rope around Harry's wrists. This time it felt right and Ron lost himself in making everything perfect and ensuring it wasn't too tight.
When Ron was done, he walked around Harry, eager to see if Harry was really all right. Harry was already breathing a little heavier and his eyes were wide. It was strange to see the most powerful wizard he knew, the man who'd defeated Voldemort, tied and under his control. Even as Ron wondered about the responsibility and trust given him by Harry, he was almost sure Harry could free himself if he needed. But this was about allowing someone else-Ron-decide what Harry needed.
"If you need me to stop, just tell me and I'll have you out of the ropes," Ron said, looking into Harry's eyes for confirmation Harry understood. "Now, lie on the bed, and I'll do your feet."
Ron helped Harry onto the bed, putting him on his side then bending his knees so that his legs would be comfortable in the bindings. Ron went slowly, winding rope up Harry's ankles to his calf, it was simple, much like what he'd done with Harry's wrists, but it was also the least likely to be harmful and the easiest to remove should Harry need to be freed quickly.
When he finished tying the knot, Ron took a step back and admired his work. It was simple but elegant, and as much as Ron didn't want it to be, it was also an erotic and arousing sight. Harry struggled for a moment and Ron rubbed a hand over Harry's arms, calming him. Harry went limp then, his whole body relaxing and his eyes closing.
Ron sat on the bed beside Harry, wanting to be where he could observe all of Harry's reactions for any sign of distress. He cast a Tempus Charm wanting to be sure that Harry didn't stay bound for too long. He didn't know what to do, so he just reclined against the headboard and waited.
"Talk to me," Harry said, his voice soft and sounding faraway.
Ron startled then looked down at Harry. Harry's eyes were still closed and his face was relaxed with a soft smile. "What about?"
"Anything, I just like knowing you're there," Harry said quietly.
Ron froze for a minute, not knowing what to say. He shrugged to himself and just started talking.
"Mum had a new letter from Charlie. He says he's coming for Christmas so Mum's having kittens getting everything ready. No use telling her it's still a few months away. Oh and I think Percy's ready to propose. He's being all weird about it, but you know how he is." Ron continued telling Harry everything he'd learned the night before when he and Hermione had stopped by the Burrow.
Before he knew it, the Tempus Charm dinged, signifying thirty minutes had passed. Ron stopped talking and ran his hand down Harry's arm. He'd read about bringing someone out and he knew he needed to go slowly. He unwound the rope binding Harry's wrists then massaged the red lines left behind gently, helping the circulation return to normal. Then he did the same thing to Harry's ankles. When Harry was completely unbound, Ron helped Harry sit up then conjured a glass of water and helped Harry drink it down.
Harry's eyes were open and bright but still held a faraway look. "Ta, mate," he said, handing the glass back to Ron and stretching. "I needed that. All of it." He looked so relaxed and calm that Ron felt a sense of pride for having helped Harry.
"Anytime," Ron said, moving off the bed and stretching himself. He felt better than he had in ages, and he wasn't even sure why.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron took a deep breath and stepped through the fire. Harry was waiting for him in the sitting room, the Wizarding book on bondage on the table. They'd agreed to talk about what Harry wanted and what Ron was comfortable with, but the idea of talking about everything made Ron's stomach churn and his heart race. They were supposed to discuss limits and safe words and all the things that made this adventure more real.
Since two nights before when Ron had bound Harry, it was all he could think about. How Harry looked in the ropes and how good he'd felt afterwards. There was a level of intimacy and trust between him and Harry now that was scary in its intensity. In many ways, he'd always been closer to Harry than Hermione, but there was a part of Ron that realised he was making the divide even greater. He hadn't told her about his new arrangement with Harry and couldn't fully explain why he was keeping it a complete secret.
"I have the books," Ron said, nervously shuffling to sit beside Harry on the sofa. He handed the two books he'd purchased to Harry then picked up the Wizarding volume and began thumbing through it. They sat in silence for several moments, both lost in thought and the books. "Tell me what you like," he added after a moment.
"This," Harry said, showing Ron the section on Japanese bondage. The woman in the photo had ropes crossing her chest in an intricate pattern that reminded Ron of a tortoise shell. Her arms were bound to her side and ropes twisted around her legs, leaving them free to move but still artfully tied.
Ron nodded. "I could do that."
They went through the books carefully after that, pointing out things they liked and then showing each other things that seemed impossible or crazy. It was comfortable and easy even though it seemed like it should've been awkward.
"What about something like this? Only with a rope harness?" Ron asked, showing Harry a picture of a man in a leather harness with a ball gag and his legs tied back, vulnerable and open.
Harry looked at it for a long moment and his cheeks flushed. "Yeah, I think I'd like that."
Ron grinned and marked the page along with several others they'd agreed on.
"Is this weird?" Harry asked, putting the book he'd been examining on the table and turning to Ron. "I mean most best mates don't tie each other up."
Ron tried to look reassuring. "It might be weird. But it's all right, yeah? We're not hurting anybody and it makes you happy. That's all that matters."
"What about you? Did you enjoy it?"
Ron closed his eyes with the memory of the rope scratching gently as he pulled it around Harry's wrists. He pictured the look of contentment that was so rare on his best friend's face and smiled. "Yeah, I did." He paused for a long moment and decided to elaborate. "Not just because it makes you happy, though that's the biggest part, but also because it's a bit of a puzzle, making the ropes fit just right. It's also a bit of strategy, placing each knot and loop perfectly. Plus, I like how taking care of you makes me feel." He blushed with the admission, turning his head away from Harry.
"Thank you."
Ron didn't know if Harry was thanking him for what he'd said or for being willing to help out. Either way, he smiled at Harry, feeling that new intimacy stretched between them in a warm comfort.
*^*^*^*^*
"Honestly, George," Ron's mum said, chastising George for pulling another silly prank at dinner, this time turning Percy completely pink.
Everyone laughed, even Percy, who had become very indulgent of George's antics over the past few years. Sunday dinner was always chaotic, and Ron loved the time spent with his family. Hermione was beside him, but not really joining in on the fun. She'd been distant lately, or rather, Ron wondered if he'd been the distant one.
Ginny's latest boyfriend was in attendance; this one a fellow named Patrick who worked as a trainer for the Harpies. The bloke seemed nice enough, but Ron could see his family once again pushing Harry toward Ginny. They'd broken up almost immediately after getting back together, and they both seemed quite happy with the decision. It wasn't talked about much, but it was also common knowledge that Harry liked blokes, too, so Ron didn't understand why his family kept trying to get them together.
"So Harry, who are you shagging these days?" George asked, elbowing Harry hard enough to knock him into Ron. Ron knew George was trying to help Harry out but also knew that would only serve to humiliate Harry in front of his family.
Harry shrugged. "Not dating anyone," he mumbled.
"Leave him alone," Ron said defensively.
George turned his grin to Ron. "Well he's practically glowing and there's only one possible reason for him to be so happy. You don't have to be dating to be shagging."
"George Weasley, that is enough," Molly spluttered.
Harry ducked his head, obviously embarrassed. Ron reached under the table and squeezed Harry's knee in support. Harry shot him a grateful smile, and Ron grinned back, ignoring everyone else around them for a long moment. He wondered if they all could see how calm and relaxed Harry seemed after being bound the previous night. Ron also wondered if there was such a visible difference in himself as well. Ron felt better, more centred and calm, than he had in ages, maybe ever.
After dinner, Harry excused himself and went outside. Ron made to follow him, but Hermione stopped him.
"You don't have to always go after him," she said.
Ron looked her in total confusion. If Harry needed him, he'd be there. No matter what. "What do you mean by that?"
"You've barely spoken to me all evening and haven't left Harry's side. Not to mention the way you were smiling at each other all night. It's me you're dating." Hermione looked annoyed and unhappy, making Ron feel guilty for ignoring her.
Ron took her hand and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I'm sorry. He's just having a rough time of it. I'm being overprotective of him."
Hermione took a deep breath and relaxed. "I'm sorry, too. I've just been feeling left out from the two of you, and letting my feelings get hurt."
Wrapping his arms around her, he kissed her head and wondered when a small concern for Harry had become more pressing than Hermione.
*^*^*^*^*
Ron surveyed his handiwork. It was their fourth session together, and they'd fallen into a ritual. Harry would bathe before Ron came over then they'd go into one of the spare bedrooms together and Ron would massage Harry, relaxing him before doing anything else.
That day, Ron had tied Harry's arms to his chest in an intricate pattern of loops and holes that showed off his firm chest. Harry's legs were open in a kneeling position with his ankles and calves tied to his thighs, the strong muscles rippling under the strain of the position. Harry's chin was resting on his chest, each breath a little shaky as the ropes constricted his movements. Harry's eyes were closed and his expression was both calm and excited, something Ron hadn't seen during their previous scenes.
Ron cast the Monitoring Charms and Tempus Charm. It was the most restrictive position they'd tried, and Ron wasn't going to take any chances. He found that he often lost himself in the process as much as Harry did and needed the reminders. He'd read more about the psychology of bondage, trying to understand not only what Harry was feeling, but also his own emotions. He found it interesting to see how restriction and loss of control actually helped Harry feel free and better in control of his life. Ron wasn't sure if he'd ever completely understand, especially about why he enjoyed it so much himself, but he was glad to be helping them both.
"You're doing so good, holding yourself just right," Ron said, knowing that praise made the experience better for both of them. He ran his hands over the ropes, feeling the slight roughness that he knew would leave red marks on Harry's skin as a reminder of their activities. He loved knowing that Harry was marked, even only slightly, and Ron had found himself watching Harry at work to see Harry's sleeves ride up and give him a glance of the burns left behind. "Just a few more minutes. That's it. Let yourself go for a little while longer."
Ron noticed Harry's erection then, pressed tightly against Harry's pants and emphasised by the ropes adorning Harry's thighs. Harry had become aroused while bound before, but there was something different, more urgent about this experience. Harry's hips were moving slightly, thrusting up as if for some friction against his hardness. Ron realised he was holding his breath, watching in utter fascination the shallow movements and the way Harry's cock shifted behind the thin cloth.
His face flushed with embarrassment when he realised he'd stopped talking to stare at his best mate's erection. He shook his head, trying to get the image out of his mind. He shouldn't find such things arousing. He'd never been interested in someone else's cock before, but something about it being Harry's seemed to make all the difference. He stood and turned away from the bed for a moment, not wanting to disturb Harry but needing to get himself under control. He couldn't be thinking these things; he had a girlfriend. But then he couldn't remember ever finding Hermione so fascinating, and that was a problem.
Ron turned to watch Harry lost in the moment. He focused on Harry's expression, looking to make sure Harry was in a good place. Seeing Harry so open and relaxed was the best part of the experience, and Ron let himself think only about comfort and safety, and soon he was as lost as Harry.
When the time came to release Harry, Ron went slowly, loosening the bonds first and rubbing Harry gently. He took his time untying Harry, not wanting the moment to end. When Harry was finally free, Ron gathered Harry in his arms and fell asleep holding him close.
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