Harry Potter: Five Times Severus Snape Knew He Was A Hero
Title: Five Times Severus Snape Knew He Was A Hero
Author: Honorarymaraudr
Recipient: mabonwitch
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Light rimming mentioned, slightly underage sex (Harry is almost 17)
Pairing: Snape/Harry
Summary: Severus Snape has not had the chance to feel heroic very many times in his life; in fact he can only think of five.
Author Notes: Severus is a very complex character. He can be very cruel, but we’re talking about a man with a doe patronus. The only scene in this fic that is canon is part 2-part 1 is set before the books begin and parts 3-5 are set in Harry’s 7th year. No spoilers here! Also, this turned out much longer than I expected, sorry!
1. The First Time His Information Stopped A Death Eater Raid.
Severus ran a shaky hand through his greasy hair as he struggled to find his composure. Albus was blithely ignoring his tears as he poured them each a cup of tea and wordlessly handed one of the cups to Severus. He waited patiently as the younger man downed the contents then poured himself another. After a moment Severus seemed to find his center and he calmed enough to look at the Headmaster.
“Did you gather any useful information during tonight’s meeting, Severus?” Albus asked as he serenely sipped his tea.
Severus blanched at the mention of the meeting he’d attended and drank more of his tea. He tried to remember if Voldemort had mentioned any plans but all of his other his memories were fuzzy compared to the horrific montage of images in the forefront of his mind. Severus couldn’t remember any plans but he very vividly remembered the torture and murder of a young muggle girl with long blonde hair and piercing green eyes.
“There was a girl, Headmaster. He raped her, tortured her, and then finally killed her. When he finally sent the final curse she looked at me, looked straight at me, and her eyes-they were so green. She is all that I can think of right now… I cannot erase her gaze from my memory.” Severus felt his chest constrict and he fought to keep his hard-won composure.
“I need you to listen to me very carefully, Severus. You need to focus-did Tom ever mention a village? I’ve been told by other sources that he plans to target a wizarding village but I don’t know the name.” Albus pressed.
Severus concentrated on pushing past his horror and revulsion, past the terrible things he’d seen until he could think clearly of the meeting before the torture. Then he remembered.
“Willowshire. He didn’t go into great detail, but he did mention that this village was next. The villagers are all blood traitors and half-bloods.”
“Thank you, my boy. Your information will help us protect the village and save many, many people. I know that what you went through tonight was terrible but you will have to go again. As sad as I am to say it, you must. You will get used to the violence and you will become more adept at gathering information. You are only twenty-one years old and you’re already a great spy. I can only imagine how great you will become.”
Severus nodded and thanked Dumbledore. The praise was an obvious dismissal and he made his way down to the dungeon. He’d helped the greater good-he could not save the girl at the meeting tonight but he’d been able to prevent others from taking her place. For the first time in his life, Severus felt a little heroic and a little hopeful.
2. The First Time He Saved Harry Potter From Certain Death.
Severus growled softly when Potter’s broom started to lurch. He strained his eyes until he could see Harry and watched as the boy’s eyes widened and his grip tightened until his knuckles were white. This was no charade for attention-Severus could plainly see the fear on Potter’s face. Severus sat up taller and furtively looked around the stands for the person jinxing the broom. It only took a moment for his sharp gaze to fall on Professor Quirrell. The turbaned man’s lips were moving rapidly as he whispered a spell and his eyes were locked to Potter. Severus grit his teeth angrily and turned back to Harry’s desperate attempt to stay on his broom.
The counter-curse came to his lips without a conscious thought. He began murmuring the words quietly, never breaking eye contact with Potter and his broom. The spells struggled against each other and Severus watched as the broom finally bucked Harry off its back. He held on for dear life and Severus whispered faster, willing the broom still. After many tense moments Harry climbed back up and a feeling of triumph rushed through him. He allowed the feeling to warm him while he furiously brain-stormed ways to protect the boy-starting with refereeing his next match.
“Fire!”
Severus was rudely jolted from his plans by the chaos around him. It was then that he realized that he was on fire. He put it out quickly, barely managing to stay upright, and then blew his mussed hair from his face.
Perhaps, he mused, it wasn’t the heroic feeling that had made him so warm after all.
3. The First Time He Saved Harry Potter From Himself.
“Prepare yourself, Potter.” Severus whispered silkily.
“Please Professor; I’m not ready for this today. I have a headache and-”
“The Dark Lord has no time for your excuses and neither do I. Legimens!”
Severus did not wait for Harry to gather his thoughts. He dove headfirst into Harry’s mind, crashing through the feeble barriers he’d hastily erected. The first emotions Severus found were of pain and anger but as momentum carried him further Severus found himself swallowed whole by the maelstrom of feelings swirling through Harry Potter’s mind. There were a lot of memories tangled up in one giant, writhing mass of sadness and isolation. He saw Harry as a small child being beaten by his cousin. He saw Harry at Hogwarts during his second year when the whole school was against him. He even witnessed Granger and Weasley kissing while a forlorn Harry watched from the sidelines. All of the memories, from the violent to the melancholy, had one theme-Harry was alone.
The memories began to move faster so that he only saw snippets here and there of dark hair, sad green eyes and a lightening bolt shaped scar that stood out from the rest of his face. With a grunt of effort, Severus wrenched himself from Harry’s mind and caused them both to fall over in the process. As he became aware of the world around him he realized that Harry was crying. A feeling of panic overtook the Potions Master and he looked around anxiously for a clue to his next move. He had hurt the boy-despite the fact that Harry had tried to warn him. Harry had probably known what Severus would find inside his head and had tried to keep him out. Finally Severus sighed, reached out and patted Harry awkwardly on his back.
Harry sniffled pitifully and looked up at him with wide green eyes. Severus felt something in his chest that he’d never felt before. His heart skipped and his breath hitched and he felt like he was standing somewhere else in time-a time when he was much younger and Lily Evans had looked at him that way. Severus shook himself forcefully. Potter was almost 17 years old, surely he didn’t need someone to hold him like a baby. But what would make a 16 year old boy forget his sorrows and calm down?
“Professor, I’m so sorry I-” Harry croaked, his voice breaking sharply.
“Don’t worry about it Potter.” Severus tried to brush the whole incident off but Harry looked so sad, so beautiful and so very much like his mother.
Mentally, Severus threw up his hands and stopped thinking. Driven blindly by instinct he reached out again and ran a tentative hand across Harry’s tear-streaked cheek. Instantly the boy moved into his touch and closed his eyes with a contented sigh. Severus was captivated. Slowly he moved forward to capture his lips with his own. Harry made a startled sound in his throat and Severus tried to pull away but desperate hands held him close as Harry kissed him back.
Severus heaved an inner sigh of relief as he plundered Harry’s mouth. There would be time for guilt and regret later-at the moment, with Harry’s hands gripping him so tightly and so gratefully, he felt like someone’s hero.
4. The First Time He Made Love To Harry Potter.
The knock at Severus’ door was timid, as if the person outside was unsure of their welcome. Severus snorted at the idea that anyone would feel welcome in his office and glanced up at the clock. It was well after midnight on the night before the “final battle” as Albus was calling it. Severus knew that there was only one person who would be knocking on his door at 12:45 am the night before they trooped into battle. Severus filled his glass of firewhiskey to the top and shot it back before answering.
“Enter.”
The door opened and Harry Potter stuck his head inside.
“Professor? Are you busy?” He asked nervously.
“Potter, tomorrow we are going into battle for what may be the last time. My affairs are in order and now I’ve nothing left to do but drink and wait.” Severus answered dryly as he motioned Harry into the room. He pulled another glass from the locked cabinet below his desk and poured Harry a generous amount. He handed a glass to Harry and watched as he slipped at it unflinchingly.
“Are you scared? Harry asked around his cup.
“Not as much as I should be. I’ve been doing this too long to be properly afraid anymore.” Severus replied honestly, also nursing his drink.
“Can I ask you a favor?”
“You may, but I do not promise to fulfill it.” Severus answered.
“May I call you Severus?”
“That would be highly inappropriate, Mr. Potter.” Severus sniffed.
“So was that time you kissed me.” Harry countered with a grin.
“That is a good point.”
“And we could die tomorrow.” Harry added.
“That is also a good point.” Severus finished his firewhiskey and refilled his glass before offering more to Harry.
“And I would really like for you to call me Harry.”
Severus sighed heavily and glared at Harry’s hopeful smile.
“For this evening you may call me Severus and I shall endeavor to address you as Harry.” Severus conceded.
“Thank you Severus.”
Severus waved him off and drank his whiskey.
“Can I ask you one more question?” Harry laughed when Snape rolled his eyes dramatically.
“Will you shut up afterwards?”
“Maybe.”
“Go on then.”
“Why did you kiss me?”
Severus went very still for a moment then slowly sat his glass on his desk.
“You were distraught and I was attempting to comfort you. I will remember to never do it again.”
“But why did you want to comfort me? You hate me!” Harry exclaimed shrilly.
“Pot-Harry, you’re sitting in my office at one in the morning, drinking my good whiskey. If I hated you I would have already hexed your bollocks off and sent you back to your room.” Severus’ voice was low and dangerous and it sent a shiver down Harry’s spine.
“So you like me?” Harry asked, his voice hopeful.
“I wouldn’t go that far.”
“But you liked kissing me?”
“It was an enjoyable experience, yes.” Severus answered, pushing away from his desk. There was very suddenly room in front of the Potions Master and Harry wanted desperately to be in it.
Harry pulled up every bit of Gryffindor courage he could find and stood. The walk around Severus’ desk seemed to take forever but then he was in front of him and Harry froze.
“Come on Potter-I don’t have all night. I do have to go and die tomorrow.” Severus growled.
“I won’t let you die.” Harry whispered fiercely.
“We’ll see about that tomorrow.” Severus murmured as he grabbed Harry around the waist and pulled him astride his lap.
Harry moaned softly when their lips met. He wrapped his arms tightly around Severus’ neck and responded enthusiastically to the kiss. He felt himself harden in his jeans and he shifted to grind against Severus’ stomach. Then the Potions Master suddenly stood up-dumping Harry to the floor in a heap.
“Oi!”
“If you wish to continue this, Mr. Potter, then I suggest you follow me.” Severus swept through the connecting door with a flourish and Harry scrambled to his feet to follow him. He barely made any note of the living room they passed through as he scurried after the older man. Once in the bedroom, Severus turned to him and fixed him in his gaze.
“What do you want to do, Harry?” Severus asked lowly.
Harry swallowed thickly before answering.
“I want you to touch me. I don’t have any experience but I just want…” Harry trailed off with a blush and Severus nodded.
“Take off your clothes and sit them there on the chair.” Severus smirked when Harry started ripping his clothes off. He hastily piled it all up on the indicated chair then waited for further instruction.
“Lie down on the bed, right in the middle.”
Harry launched himself onto the bed and sprawled artlessly in the middle. Severus took a moment to appreciate the pale expanse of his skin before beginning the arduous task of unbuttoning his many layers. Harry watched him hungrily as each button slipped from its hole until the outer robe could be pushed off his shoulders-revealing his crisp white oxford and vest.
“Severus! I’m going to die before you get all of those undone!” Harry whined, crawling across the bed towards the older man.
Severus unbuttoned his vest easily and pulled his shirt from his pants. Harry attacked the buttons at the bottom of his shirt while Severus started at his neck. Together they had the shirt unbuttoned in no time and Severus popped the fastenings at his cuffs. Harry eagerly pushed the garment off of his body then sat back to stare. Creamy, pale flesh met Harry’s gaze at long last and he felt his arousal spike alarmingly. He leaned forward slowly, as if mesmerized, and licked tentatively at one dark nipple.
Severus growled lowly at the sensation before pressing the boy back on the bed. Then he unfastened and unzipped his pants. Harry watched avidly as he let the fabric pool at his feet. Severus chuckled when Harry’s eyes widened to take in his whole form then settled on his swollen cock.
“Having second thoughts, Harry?” Severus purred as he stretched out alongside him, leaving just enough space so that their bodies were almost touching.
“No, God no. I’m just not sure where that will fit.” Harry blushed rosily and Severus smirked.
“I want you to tell me if I do anything that you dislike. It will not hurt my feelings. Do you understand?” Severus asked, softly running his hands down Harry’s chest.
“Yes sir.” Harry gasped, arching into the sensation.
“So responsive already.” Severus murmured as he circled Harry’s nipples with his thumbs.
Harry groaned and tried to move closer but Severus halted him. Harry whimpered softly and bit his lip, prompting Severus to kiss him forcefully. Harry melted into the kiss and Severus easily rolled atop him. He trailed kisses down Harry’s neck and collarbone then he traced the path his thumbs had taken around Harry’s nipples with his tongue. Harry was moaning constantly now and rapidly thrusting his leaking erection against Severus’ hip. Severus continued his descent downwards and lapped at Harry’s belly button and nipped sharply at his hip bones. He swirled his tongue around the slick head of his cock then licked down the length of his shaft. Then he took each of his balls into his mouth in turn, causing Harry’s breath to hitch.
“Please Severus, I can’t take this.” Harry moaned, his hips bucking as he desperately sought friction.
“Mr. Potter, I assure you that prolonged arousal will not cause you to expire.” Severus promised from between Harry’s legs.
“But Professor I can’t take it any-oh!” Harry’s begging was cut off by Severus’ tongue circling his opening.
Harry’s hands twisted in Severus hair as the older man lapped and kissed the puckered flesh. Harry tensed slightly when Severus’ tongue pressed unyieldingly against his hole-but cried out sharply when it pierced him. The sensation was overwhelming and he found that he couldn’t stop the wanton sounds that were spilling from his lips.
“Oh fuck Severus; I will keep you alive forever if you will never, ever stop doing that!” Harry wailed as he ground he arse against Severus’ face.
Then Severus’ hand wrapped around his cock and Harry was lost. With a screech he came, copiously covering Severus’ hand, his own stomach and his chest. Severus sat up and stared down at Harry hungrily. The boy looked absolutely debauched-flushed skin, sparkling eyes, mussed hair and a semen spattered torso. Suddenly Harry found himself pinned beneath Severus as the older man attacked his torso, licking up the cooling semen and biting at his flesh. Severus managed to accio the lubricant he had on his nightstand and spilled some onto his hands.
Harry was still relaxed from his orgasm and Severus easily slid one finger inside of him. Harry fought against the urge to tense and Severus gently added a second. Harry could see that Severus’ control was waning and he didn’t want to make him wait any longer. He forced himself to stay open and loose while Severus scissored his fingers roughly and gasped when Severus suddenly hit something inside of him that made him see stars.
“Now please, now.” Harry pleaded when Severus pulled away.
“I will stop if it hurts too much.” Severus vowed, his voice low and gravelly with desire.
Harry nodded and watched as Severus slicked more lube over his cock. Severus positioned himself at Harry’s opening and paused once more to give him a chance to change his mind. Harry responded by wrapping his legs firmly around his waist and Severus gently pressed forward.
It hurt. It burned. Harry gasped softly and tried to stay relaxed but the pain was overwhelming. Severus stilled once completely sheathed and grasped Harry’s wilting cock. The stimulation was more than enough to get Harry’s attention and it didn’t take long before he was shifting restlessly beneath his professor. Severus took this as permission to move and thrusted carefully, stroking Harry’s erect cock in time with his movements. Harry moaned softly at the dual sensation and arched slightly, changing Severus’ angle. Suddenly something sparked inside of him and all the residual pain left him in a flood of pleasure.
“Fuck!” Harry bucked roughly, nearly unseating Severus. “Do that again!”
Severus grit his teeth and thrusted sharply in the same direction, scraping over Harry’s prostate. The teen wailed and dragged his nails down Severus’ back, leaving long trails of red on his pale skin. Their pace increased with each thrust until their bodies were slamming together. Severus gripped Harry’s hips tightly in one hand while the other stroked his cock unevenly. It was too good to last and despite already coming once, Harry felt the familiar heat building low in his spine.
“Please don’t stop, fuck…please don’t…” Harry moaned.
“Come for me, Harry.” Severus demanded, snapping his hips roughly and squeezing his cock.
Harry’s eyes slammed shut as his entire body arched upwards-and then he was coming, spilling over Severus’ hand and covering their stomachs copiously. Severus growled as Harry clenched around him and pressed inside him deeply, groaning as he spilled in Harry’s body. They fell together in a sweaty, sticky heap and while Severus groped around for his wand, Harry snuggled closer. A simple charm and they were clean and warm. Harry allowed himself to relax against his professor and smiled.
“You don’t have time for grinning, brat. We have to get up early tomorrow.” Severus grumbled, pulling the blankets over them.
“We’ll be fine tomorrow.” Harry yawned as he settled down to sleep. “I won’t let anything happen to you, and you won’t let anything happen to me.”
Severus didn’t respond, but he fell asleep with a slightly upturned mouth.
5. The Final Time He Saved Harry Potter From Certain Death.
Severus woke up at 6 am the day of the “Final Battle.” He didn’t need to be in the Great Hall until about 9 am but his internal clock reminded him that he had a sleepy bundle to deliver to Gryffindor Tower before anyone else woke up. Gently, he pried the sleeping teen away from his body then padded towards the bathroom. He ran a hot shower while he used the loo then climbed gingerly into the spray. He soaped his hair mechanically, his mind still in bed with Harry. He rinsed his hair clean and reached for his wash cloth-only to be halted by the sound of his door opening.
“Severus?” Harry asked sleepily.
“Yes Harry?” Severus lathered his washcloth and continued his shower.
“Good morning.” Harry yawned.
Severus heard Harry use the bathroom and wash his hands. Then the curtain parted and Harry was gazing at him through fogged glasses.
“I’ll see you on the battlefield.” Harry promised, reaching into the shower to touch his soapy shoulder.
“Don’t be dramatic, Potter.” Severus rolled his eyes and Harry grinned.
Harry turned to leave and was almost out the door when Severus called out to him.
“Don’t forget to eat breakfast!”
***
It had been hours since Severus had last seen Harry. There had been a glimpse of messy hair a while ago but he was too far away. Lord Voldemort was still unaware of his duplicity and Severus couldn’t risk exposure just yet. Severus was sure the moment would present itself, so he fought and fought hard. He bound and tripped Order members by the dozens-but he never truly hurt them. This alerted the Order to his presence and protected him while still allowing him to stay undercover. Severus was terrified that Voldemort would notice his harmless curses but the battle was too thick, too chaotic, for him to see.
“Ah, Harry Potter! So nice of you to join me!” Severus heard Voldemort shriek above the roar of fighting.
Severus’ blood ran cold. He rushed over to the Dark Lords circle to see Harry standing opposite his nemesis. There was blood flowing freely from his scar and his face was streaked with dirt and gore. He could see that Harry was flagging, struggling to stay on his feet and Severus bit back the urge to steady him. Instead he waited.
“You look like you’ve fought very hard, Harry, but now it’s time to die. No one can stop me! Especially a young boy like you!” Voldemort cackled as they moved into dueling position.
“I am more than just a young boy Tom! I know about you and your past! You’re nothing but a power hungry boy looking for revenge against muggles! You’re pathetic!” Harry screamed viciously.
Severus winced as Voldemort roared with outrage. Then he drew his wand and shouted a spell that Harry couldn’t possibly know or dodge. It was a spell Severus himself had aided in the development of and it seemed poetic that Severus would be faced such a spell. He only had a moment but when it came Severus was ready-- the spell was hurtling towards Harry and so was Severus. He tackled the boy just as the spell hit, causing Severus to involuntarily cry out in pain. All eyes turned to where Severus was writhing on the ground in agony.
“Severus Snape, you TRAITOR!” Voldemort screeched, his attention firmly away from Harry. “You know that this spell will not kill you until I allow it! I am not a merciful lord, Severus, and you will be completely mad before I end this spell!”
The assembled Death Eaters were crying out for Severus’ blood and while Voldemort was busy with his angry monologue, Harry slowly stood up. His hands were shaking and his teeth chattering but he managed to pull himself upright and steady his wand. Then he tried to conjure all the hate he needed to cast the curse. He hated Voldemort for taking his parents, Sirius, Cedric-he hated him for terrorizing muggles and for thinking that Hermione Granger was a lesser witch because of her blood. All of his hate came to the surface but along with it came another powerful emotion. He thought about how much he loved the Weasley’s, Dumbledore, Hermione, how much he wanted to keep his promise to Severus. Suddenly, Harry knew he had what he needed to end this once and for all. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
“Avada Kedavra!” The green light enveloped Voldemort…then everything went black.
Moments later Harry blinked back to reality. There was chaos all around him. Auror’s were arresting Death Eaters, the Order members were gathering the fallen and Severus Snape was gingerly pulling himself to his feet. Harry rushed over to help Severus to him up. He smiled brightly at the older man and chuckled when he grimaced.
"Thank you."
"For what? Saving your life once again-just as I have done countless times throughout the years? I am through with saving you from certain death, Potter." Severus sniffed, looking down his long nose at Harry.
“Then I suppose I’ll have to be more careful in the future, Professor.” Harry grinned happily when Snape did not remove his steadying arm from around his waist. Instead the Potions Master was leaning into his touch and Harry couldn’t stop his sigh of relief.
“Indeed you will. No more of this Gryffindorish tendency to rush into things heedless of the danger of doing so. You’ll need to stay somewhere safe-with someone who will watch you and will punish you for your reckless actions.”
“Are you volunteering for that position, Professor Snape?”
“I just told you that I am through saving you-”
“You won’t have to save me if you’ve kept me out of trouble.” Harry interrupted.
“10 points to Gryffindor for attention to detail.” Severus smirked.
“So you’ll stay with me?” Harry asked anxiously.
“If my presence will keep you out of trouble, then yes.”
“My hero!” Harry exclaimed dramatically as they neared the rest of their group. Even from the distance Harry could see that they’d lost very few in the battle.
“It’s about time you realized.” Severus muttered.
“Don’t worry; I’ll be sure to tell you everyday.” Harry replied, linking their fingers together.
Severus looked down at their hands and smirked. He could get used to being a hero.
Author: Honorarymaraudr
Recipient: mabonwitch
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Light rimming mentioned, slightly underage sex (Harry is almost 17)
Pairing: Snape/Harry
Summary: Severus Snape has not had the chance to feel heroic very many times in his life; in fact he can only think of five.
Author Notes: Severus is a very complex character. He can be very cruel, but we’re talking about a man with a doe patronus. The only scene in this fic that is canon is part 2-part 1 is set before the books begin and parts 3-5 are set in Harry’s 7th year. No spoilers here! Also, this turned out much longer than I expected, sorry!
1. The First Time His Information Stopped A Death Eater Raid.
Severus ran a shaky hand through his greasy hair as he struggled to find his composure. Albus was blithely ignoring his tears as he poured them each a cup of tea and wordlessly handed one of the cups to Severus. He waited patiently as the younger man downed the contents then poured himself another. After a moment Severus seemed to find his center and he calmed enough to look at the Headmaster.
“Did you gather any useful information during tonight’s meeting, Severus?” Albus asked as he serenely sipped his tea.
Severus blanched at the mention of the meeting he’d attended and drank more of his tea. He tried to remember if Voldemort had mentioned any plans but all of his other his memories were fuzzy compared to the horrific montage of images in the forefront of his mind. Severus couldn’t remember any plans but he very vividly remembered the torture and murder of a young muggle girl with long blonde hair and piercing green eyes.
“There was a girl, Headmaster. He raped her, tortured her, and then finally killed her. When he finally sent the final curse she looked at me, looked straight at me, and her eyes-they were so green. She is all that I can think of right now… I cannot erase her gaze from my memory.” Severus felt his chest constrict and he fought to keep his hard-won composure.
“I need you to listen to me very carefully, Severus. You need to focus-did Tom ever mention a village? I’ve been told by other sources that he plans to target a wizarding village but I don’t know the name.” Albus pressed.
Severus concentrated on pushing past his horror and revulsion, past the terrible things he’d seen until he could think clearly of the meeting before the torture. Then he remembered.
“Willowshire. He didn’t go into great detail, but he did mention that this village was next. The villagers are all blood traitors and half-bloods.”
“Thank you, my boy. Your information will help us protect the village and save many, many people. I know that what you went through tonight was terrible but you will have to go again. As sad as I am to say it, you must. You will get used to the violence and you will become more adept at gathering information. You are only twenty-one years old and you’re already a great spy. I can only imagine how great you will become.”
Severus nodded and thanked Dumbledore. The praise was an obvious dismissal and he made his way down to the dungeon. He’d helped the greater good-he could not save the girl at the meeting tonight but he’d been able to prevent others from taking her place. For the first time in his life, Severus felt a little heroic and a little hopeful.
2. The First Time He Saved Harry Potter From Certain Death.
Severus growled softly when Potter’s broom started to lurch. He strained his eyes until he could see Harry and watched as the boy’s eyes widened and his grip tightened until his knuckles were white. This was no charade for attention-Severus could plainly see the fear on Potter’s face. Severus sat up taller and furtively looked around the stands for the person jinxing the broom. It only took a moment for his sharp gaze to fall on Professor Quirrell. The turbaned man’s lips were moving rapidly as he whispered a spell and his eyes were locked to Potter. Severus grit his teeth angrily and turned back to Harry’s desperate attempt to stay on his broom.
The counter-curse came to his lips without a conscious thought. He began murmuring the words quietly, never breaking eye contact with Potter and his broom. The spells struggled against each other and Severus watched as the broom finally bucked Harry off its back. He held on for dear life and Severus whispered faster, willing the broom still. After many tense moments Harry climbed back up and a feeling of triumph rushed through him. He allowed the feeling to warm him while he furiously brain-stormed ways to protect the boy-starting with refereeing his next match.
“Fire!”
Severus was rudely jolted from his plans by the chaos around him. It was then that he realized that he was on fire. He put it out quickly, barely managing to stay upright, and then blew his mussed hair from his face.
Perhaps, he mused, it wasn’t the heroic feeling that had made him so warm after all.
3. The First Time He Saved Harry Potter From Himself.
“Prepare yourself, Potter.” Severus whispered silkily.
“Please Professor; I’m not ready for this today. I have a headache and-”
“The Dark Lord has no time for your excuses and neither do I. Legimens!”
Severus did not wait for Harry to gather his thoughts. He dove headfirst into Harry’s mind, crashing through the feeble barriers he’d hastily erected. The first emotions Severus found were of pain and anger but as momentum carried him further Severus found himself swallowed whole by the maelstrom of feelings swirling through Harry Potter’s mind. There were a lot of memories tangled up in one giant, writhing mass of sadness and isolation. He saw Harry as a small child being beaten by his cousin. He saw Harry at Hogwarts during his second year when the whole school was against him. He even witnessed Granger and Weasley kissing while a forlorn Harry watched from the sidelines. All of the memories, from the violent to the melancholy, had one theme-Harry was alone.
The memories began to move faster so that he only saw snippets here and there of dark hair, sad green eyes and a lightening bolt shaped scar that stood out from the rest of his face. With a grunt of effort, Severus wrenched himself from Harry’s mind and caused them both to fall over in the process. As he became aware of the world around him he realized that Harry was crying. A feeling of panic overtook the Potions Master and he looked around anxiously for a clue to his next move. He had hurt the boy-despite the fact that Harry had tried to warn him. Harry had probably known what Severus would find inside his head and had tried to keep him out. Finally Severus sighed, reached out and patted Harry awkwardly on his back.
Harry sniffled pitifully and looked up at him with wide green eyes. Severus felt something in his chest that he’d never felt before. His heart skipped and his breath hitched and he felt like he was standing somewhere else in time-a time when he was much younger and Lily Evans had looked at him that way. Severus shook himself forcefully. Potter was almost 17 years old, surely he didn’t need someone to hold him like a baby. But what would make a 16 year old boy forget his sorrows and calm down?
“Professor, I’m so sorry I-” Harry croaked, his voice breaking sharply.
“Don’t worry about it Potter.” Severus tried to brush the whole incident off but Harry looked so sad, so beautiful and so very much like his mother.
Mentally, Severus threw up his hands and stopped thinking. Driven blindly by instinct he reached out again and ran a tentative hand across Harry’s tear-streaked cheek. Instantly the boy moved into his touch and closed his eyes with a contented sigh. Severus was captivated. Slowly he moved forward to capture his lips with his own. Harry made a startled sound in his throat and Severus tried to pull away but desperate hands held him close as Harry kissed him back.
Severus heaved an inner sigh of relief as he plundered Harry’s mouth. There would be time for guilt and regret later-at the moment, with Harry’s hands gripping him so tightly and so gratefully, he felt like someone’s hero.
4. The First Time He Made Love To Harry Potter.
The knock at Severus’ door was timid, as if the person outside was unsure of their welcome. Severus snorted at the idea that anyone would feel welcome in his office and glanced up at the clock. It was well after midnight on the night before the “final battle” as Albus was calling it. Severus knew that there was only one person who would be knocking on his door at 12:45 am the night before they trooped into battle. Severus filled his glass of firewhiskey to the top and shot it back before answering.
“Enter.”
The door opened and Harry Potter stuck his head inside.
“Professor? Are you busy?” He asked nervously.
“Potter, tomorrow we are going into battle for what may be the last time. My affairs are in order and now I’ve nothing left to do but drink and wait.” Severus answered dryly as he motioned Harry into the room. He pulled another glass from the locked cabinet below his desk and poured Harry a generous amount. He handed a glass to Harry and watched as he slipped at it unflinchingly.
“Are you scared? Harry asked around his cup.
“Not as much as I should be. I’ve been doing this too long to be properly afraid anymore.” Severus replied honestly, also nursing his drink.
“Can I ask you a favor?”
“You may, but I do not promise to fulfill it.” Severus answered.
“May I call you Severus?”
“That would be highly inappropriate, Mr. Potter.” Severus sniffed.
“So was that time you kissed me.” Harry countered with a grin.
“That is a good point.”
“And we could die tomorrow.” Harry added.
“That is also a good point.” Severus finished his firewhiskey and refilled his glass before offering more to Harry.
“And I would really like for you to call me Harry.”
Severus sighed heavily and glared at Harry’s hopeful smile.
“For this evening you may call me Severus and I shall endeavor to address you as Harry.” Severus conceded.
“Thank you Severus.”
Severus waved him off and drank his whiskey.
“Can I ask you one more question?” Harry laughed when Snape rolled his eyes dramatically.
“Will you shut up afterwards?”
“Maybe.”
“Go on then.”
“Why did you kiss me?”
Severus went very still for a moment then slowly sat his glass on his desk.
“You were distraught and I was attempting to comfort you. I will remember to never do it again.”
“But why did you want to comfort me? You hate me!” Harry exclaimed shrilly.
“Pot-Harry, you’re sitting in my office at one in the morning, drinking my good whiskey. If I hated you I would have already hexed your bollocks off and sent you back to your room.” Severus’ voice was low and dangerous and it sent a shiver down Harry’s spine.
“So you like me?” Harry asked, his voice hopeful.
“I wouldn’t go that far.”
“But you liked kissing me?”
“It was an enjoyable experience, yes.” Severus answered, pushing away from his desk. There was very suddenly room in front of the Potions Master and Harry wanted desperately to be in it.
Harry pulled up every bit of Gryffindor courage he could find and stood. The walk around Severus’ desk seemed to take forever but then he was in front of him and Harry froze.
“Come on Potter-I don’t have all night. I do have to go and die tomorrow.” Severus growled.
“I won’t let you die.” Harry whispered fiercely.
“We’ll see about that tomorrow.” Severus murmured as he grabbed Harry around the waist and pulled him astride his lap.
Harry moaned softly when their lips met. He wrapped his arms tightly around Severus’ neck and responded enthusiastically to the kiss. He felt himself harden in his jeans and he shifted to grind against Severus’ stomach. Then the Potions Master suddenly stood up-dumping Harry to the floor in a heap.
“Oi!”
“If you wish to continue this, Mr. Potter, then I suggest you follow me.” Severus swept through the connecting door with a flourish and Harry scrambled to his feet to follow him. He barely made any note of the living room they passed through as he scurried after the older man. Once in the bedroom, Severus turned to him and fixed him in his gaze.
“What do you want to do, Harry?” Severus asked lowly.
Harry swallowed thickly before answering.
“I want you to touch me. I don’t have any experience but I just want…” Harry trailed off with a blush and Severus nodded.
“Take off your clothes and sit them there on the chair.” Severus smirked when Harry started ripping his clothes off. He hastily piled it all up on the indicated chair then waited for further instruction.
“Lie down on the bed, right in the middle.”
Harry launched himself onto the bed and sprawled artlessly in the middle. Severus took a moment to appreciate the pale expanse of his skin before beginning the arduous task of unbuttoning his many layers. Harry watched him hungrily as each button slipped from its hole until the outer robe could be pushed off his shoulders-revealing his crisp white oxford and vest.
“Severus! I’m going to die before you get all of those undone!” Harry whined, crawling across the bed towards the older man.
Severus unbuttoned his vest easily and pulled his shirt from his pants. Harry attacked the buttons at the bottom of his shirt while Severus started at his neck. Together they had the shirt unbuttoned in no time and Severus popped the fastenings at his cuffs. Harry eagerly pushed the garment off of his body then sat back to stare. Creamy, pale flesh met Harry’s gaze at long last and he felt his arousal spike alarmingly. He leaned forward slowly, as if mesmerized, and licked tentatively at one dark nipple.
Severus growled lowly at the sensation before pressing the boy back on the bed. Then he unfastened and unzipped his pants. Harry watched avidly as he let the fabric pool at his feet. Severus chuckled when Harry’s eyes widened to take in his whole form then settled on his swollen cock.
“Having second thoughts, Harry?” Severus purred as he stretched out alongside him, leaving just enough space so that their bodies were almost touching.
“No, God no. I’m just not sure where that will fit.” Harry blushed rosily and Severus smirked.
“I want you to tell me if I do anything that you dislike. It will not hurt my feelings. Do you understand?” Severus asked, softly running his hands down Harry’s chest.
“Yes sir.” Harry gasped, arching into the sensation.
“So responsive already.” Severus murmured as he circled Harry’s nipples with his thumbs.
Harry groaned and tried to move closer but Severus halted him. Harry whimpered softly and bit his lip, prompting Severus to kiss him forcefully. Harry melted into the kiss and Severus easily rolled atop him. He trailed kisses down Harry’s neck and collarbone then he traced the path his thumbs had taken around Harry’s nipples with his tongue. Harry was moaning constantly now and rapidly thrusting his leaking erection against Severus’ hip. Severus continued his descent downwards and lapped at Harry’s belly button and nipped sharply at his hip bones. He swirled his tongue around the slick head of his cock then licked down the length of his shaft. Then he took each of his balls into his mouth in turn, causing Harry’s breath to hitch.
“Please Severus, I can’t take this.” Harry moaned, his hips bucking as he desperately sought friction.
“Mr. Potter, I assure you that prolonged arousal will not cause you to expire.” Severus promised from between Harry’s legs.
“But Professor I can’t take it any-oh!” Harry’s begging was cut off by Severus’ tongue circling his opening.
Harry’s hands twisted in Severus hair as the older man lapped and kissed the puckered flesh. Harry tensed slightly when Severus’ tongue pressed unyieldingly against his hole-but cried out sharply when it pierced him. The sensation was overwhelming and he found that he couldn’t stop the wanton sounds that were spilling from his lips.
“Oh fuck Severus; I will keep you alive forever if you will never, ever stop doing that!” Harry wailed as he ground he arse against Severus’ face.
Then Severus’ hand wrapped around his cock and Harry was lost. With a screech he came, copiously covering Severus’ hand, his own stomach and his chest. Severus sat up and stared down at Harry hungrily. The boy looked absolutely debauched-flushed skin, sparkling eyes, mussed hair and a semen spattered torso. Suddenly Harry found himself pinned beneath Severus as the older man attacked his torso, licking up the cooling semen and biting at his flesh. Severus managed to accio the lubricant he had on his nightstand and spilled some onto his hands.
Harry was still relaxed from his orgasm and Severus easily slid one finger inside of him. Harry fought against the urge to tense and Severus gently added a second. Harry could see that Severus’ control was waning and he didn’t want to make him wait any longer. He forced himself to stay open and loose while Severus scissored his fingers roughly and gasped when Severus suddenly hit something inside of him that made him see stars.
“Now please, now.” Harry pleaded when Severus pulled away.
“I will stop if it hurts too much.” Severus vowed, his voice low and gravelly with desire.
Harry nodded and watched as Severus slicked more lube over his cock. Severus positioned himself at Harry’s opening and paused once more to give him a chance to change his mind. Harry responded by wrapping his legs firmly around his waist and Severus gently pressed forward.
It hurt. It burned. Harry gasped softly and tried to stay relaxed but the pain was overwhelming. Severus stilled once completely sheathed and grasped Harry’s wilting cock. The stimulation was more than enough to get Harry’s attention and it didn’t take long before he was shifting restlessly beneath his professor. Severus took this as permission to move and thrusted carefully, stroking Harry’s erect cock in time with his movements. Harry moaned softly at the dual sensation and arched slightly, changing Severus’ angle. Suddenly something sparked inside of him and all the residual pain left him in a flood of pleasure.
“Fuck!” Harry bucked roughly, nearly unseating Severus. “Do that again!”
Severus grit his teeth and thrusted sharply in the same direction, scraping over Harry’s prostate. The teen wailed and dragged his nails down Severus’ back, leaving long trails of red on his pale skin. Their pace increased with each thrust until their bodies were slamming together. Severus gripped Harry’s hips tightly in one hand while the other stroked his cock unevenly. It was too good to last and despite already coming once, Harry felt the familiar heat building low in his spine.
“Please don’t stop, fuck…please don’t…” Harry moaned.
“Come for me, Harry.” Severus demanded, snapping his hips roughly and squeezing his cock.
Harry’s eyes slammed shut as his entire body arched upwards-and then he was coming, spilling over Severus’ hand and covering their stomachs copiously. Severus growled as Harry clenched around him and pressed inside him deeply, groaning as he spilled in Harry’s body. They fell together in a sweaty, sticky heap and while Severus groped around for his wand, Harry snuggled closer. A simple charm and they were clean and warm. Harry allowed himself to relax against his professor and smiled.
“You don’t have time for grinning, brat. We have to get up early tomorrow.” Severus grumbled, pulling the blankets over them.
“We’ll be fine tomorrow.” Harry yawned as he settled down to sleep. “I won’t let anything happen to you, and you won’t let anything happen to me.”
Severus didn’t respond, but he fell asleep with a slightly upturned mouth.
5. The Final Time He Saved Harry Potter From Certain Death.
Severus woke up at 6 am the day of the “Final Battle.” He didn’t need to be in the Great Hall until about 9 am but his internal clock reminded him that he had a sleepy bundle to deliver to Gryffindor Tower before anyone else woke up. Gently, he pried the sleeping teen away from his body then padded towards the bathroom. He ran a hot shower while he used the loo then climbed gingerly into the spray. He soaped his hair mechanically, his mind still in bed with Harry. He rinsed his hair clean and reached for his wash cloth-only to be halted by the sound of his door opening.
“Severus?” Harry asked sleepily.
“Yes Harry?” Severus lathered his washcloth and continued his shower.
“Good morning.” Harry yawned.
Severus heard Harry use the bathroom and wash his hands. Then the curtain parted and Harry was gazing at him through fogged glasses.
“I’ll see you on the battlefield.” Harry promised, reaching into the shower to touch his soapy shoulder.
“Don’t be dramatic, Potter.” Severus rolled his eyes and Harry grinned.
Harry turned to leave and was almost out the door when Severus called out to him.
“Don’t forget to eat breakfast!”
***
It had been hours since Severus had last seen Harry. There had been a glimpse of messy hair a while ago but he was too far away. Lord Voldemort was still unaware of his duplicity and Severus couldn’t risk exposure just yet. Severus was sure the moment would present itself, so he fought and fought hard. He bound and tripped Order members by the dozens-but he never truly hurt them. This alerted the Order to his presence and protected him while still allowing him to stay undercover. Severus was terrified that Voldemort would notice his harmless curses but the battle was too thick, too chaotic, for him to see.
“Ah, Harry Potter! So nice of you to join me!” Severus heard Voldemort shriek above the roar of fighting.
Severus’ blood ran cold. He rushed over to the Dark Lords circle to see Harry standing opposite his nemesis. There was blood flowing freely from his scar and his face was streaked with dirt and gore. He could see that Harry was flagging, struggling to stay on his feet and Severus bit back the urge to steady him. Instead he waited.
“You look like you’ve fought very hard, Harry, but now it’s time to die. No one can stop me! Especially a young boy like you!” Voldemort cackled as they moved into dueling position.
“I am more than just a young boy Tom! I know about you and your past! You’re nothing but a power hungry boy looking for revenge against muggles! You’re pathetic!” Harry screamed viciously.
Severus winced as Voldemort roared with outrage. Then he drew his wand and shouted a spell that Harry couldn’t possibly know or dodge. It was a spell Severus himself had aided in the development of and it seemed poetic that Severus would be faced such a spell. He only had a moment but when it came Severus was ready-- the spell was hurtling towards Harry and so was Severus. He tackled the boy just as the spell hit, causing Severus to involuntarily cry out in pain. All eyes turned to where Severus was writhing on the ground in agony.
“Severus Snape, you TRAITOR!” Voldemort screeched, his attention firmly away from Harry. “You know that this spell will not kill you until I allow it! I am not a merciful lord, Severus, and you will be completely mad before I end this spell!”
The assembled Death Eaters were crying out for Severus’ blood and while Voldemort was busy with his angry monologue, Harry slowly stood up. His hands were shaking and his teeth chattering but he managed to pull himself upright and steady his wand. Then he tried to conjure all the hate he needed to cast the curse. He hated Voldemort for taking his parents, Sirius, Cedric-he hated him for terrorizing muggles and for thinking that Hermione Granger was a lesser witch because of her blood. All of his hate came to the surface but along with it came another powerful emotion. He thought about how much he loved the Weasley’s, Dumbledore, Hermione, how much he wanted to keep his promise to Severus. Suddenly, Harry knew he had what he needed to end this once and for all. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
“Avada Kedavra!” The green light enveloped Voldemort…then everything went black.
Moments later Harry blinked back to reality. There was chaos all around him. Auror’s were arresting Death Eaters, the Order members were gathering the fallen and Severus Snape was gingerly pulling himself to his feet. Harry rushed over to help Severus to him up. He smiled brightly at the older man and chuckled when he grimaced.
"Thank you."
"For what? Saving your life once again-just as I have done countless times throughout the years? I am through with saving you from certain death, Potter." Severus sniffed, looking down his long nose at Harry.
“Then I suppose I’ll have to be more careful in the future, Professor.” Harry grinned happily when Snape did not remove his steadying arm from around his waist. Instead the Potions Master was leaning into his touch and Harry couldn’t stop his sigh of relief.
“Indeed you will. No more of this Gryffindorish tendency to rush into things heedless of the danger of doing so. You’ll need to stay somewhere safe-with someone who will watch you and will punish you for your reckless actions.”
“Are you volunteering for that position, Professor Snape?”
“I just told you that I am through saving you-”
“You won’t have to save me if you’ve kept me out of trouble.” Harry interrupted.
“10 points to Gryffindor for attention to detail.” Severus smirked.
“So you’ll stay with me?” Harry asked anxiously.
“If my presence will keep you out of trouble, then yes.”
“My hero!” Harry exclaimed dramatically as they neared the rest of their group. Even from the distance Harry could see that they’d lost very few in the battle.
“It’s about time you realized.” Severus muttered.
“Don’t worry; I’ll be sure to tell you everyday.” Harry replied, linking their fingers together.
Severus looked down at their hands and smirked. He could get used to being a hero.