Severus felt an inexplicable sense of foreboding envelop him as he sat on the edge of his bed. The feeling was viscerally familiar, evoking the same emotion he'd felt when Harry had been at Diaz's—a thought that provoked an almost palpable anxiety. He shook his head, as if physically attempting to dispel the discomfort. Slipping his feet into slippers and wrapping his robe around him, he picked up his wand from the bedside table and tucked it into his pocket. His objective was simple: to check on Harry and thereby quell his own nagging sense of dread.

As he softly pushed open the door to Harry's room, his eyes were instinctively drawn to the bed. It was vacant, and that realization struck him like a thunderbolt. The room seemed to contract around him, each corner pulling away, as his pulse raced.

"Harry! Harry, where are you? Oh, Merlin, Harry!" Severus's voice resonated with a frantic intensity.

Arwen, the small kitten, leapt up from her sleep at the sudden uproar. She looked around and assessed the situation almost immediately—her young human was missing. She mentally chastised herself; she should have slept directly on Harry's chest to prevent such an escape.

Attempting to regain some semblance of composure while still trapped in a vortex of panic, Severus cast a "Point Me" spell. The wand, however, betrayed his worst fears by pointing towards the woods. His mind began to churn at an accelerated pace, churning through a slew of ominous possibilities. Was Harry hurt? Cold? Lost? Why would he run away? A deep breath was Severus's futile attempt to calm his reeling mind.

Severus felt almost paralyzed by his emotions when Arwen gently licked his ankle, snapping him back into a precarious semblance of reality. Each second Harry was out there alone compounded the potential danger.

Acknowledging the kitten's nudge, Severus scooped her up. "Alright, Arwen. Let's form a search party to find Harry." Lamenting the limitations of "Point Me" spells in the forest, he moved swiftly to the Floo Network. Albus, Don, Minerva, Arthur, Remus—he contacted everyone he could think of who could assist in the search.

But Severus's focus was so singular, so engulfed in worry, that he failed to notice the arrival of the search party he had summoned.

Surprisingly, it was Minerva who became the stabilizing force. She embraced Severus, striving to ground his fractured state. "Severus, do you have any idea where he went?"

His voice broke as he shook his head. "I don't know...he's gone...Oh, Merlin, he's gone!"

Her arm still wrapped around him, Minerva assured him, "It's okay, Severus. We'll find him." Don stepped in to imbue Severus with calming magic, which helped just enough to refocus his distressed mind.

As Severus nodded, Don approached from behind, kneeling and placing his hand on Severus's forehead. He channeled calming magic into Severus, his words reassuring. "That's right Severus, nice and calm."

A few minutes later, Don stood, helping Minerva and Severus to their feet in turn. Minerva, her hand still resting on Severus's shoulder, swiftly devised a plan. "Alright, Severus and I will stay here and check the front part of the forest. Maya will stay in the house in case Harry comes back. Arthur and Remus, can you check the Leaky Cauldron? Hagrid mentioned he took Harry there last year. Don, can you check St. Mungo's and The Clinic? Albus, assuming Harry flew off on a broom, can you scout from the air?"

Nods filled the room, a shared respect for Minerva's decisive action uniting them. Don's hand now rested on Albus's shoulder, channeling calming magic into him too. "Remember, everyone can cast a Patronus Charm. Keep in touch as we search. Communication will be key."

The group dispersed, each burdened with concern for Harry. It was a cold night, and Harry seemed to have taken only his lighter coat.

As they walked, Minerva scrutinized Severus, her concern palpable. Partnering with him was no accident; she knew the depth of his affection for Harry, and understood the agony rending his heart. Not just because Harry was missing, but because the boy had run away, seemingly from Severus himself.

Minerva wanted to demonstrate her unwavering support for Severus. With Albus growing increasingly unreliable over the years, she sensed Severus would need significant emotional support in the future. The mere thought of losing Albus was haunting.

Pushing away her anxieties over Albus, she returned her attention to Severus. "Are you alright, Severus?"

Severus gave a muted nod. "Half of me is terrified for Harry, the other half wants to discipline him thoroughly."

Minerva responded with an understanding smile. "Speak to him first. Find out why he felt the need to run."

Severus looked at her, his eyes clouded with worry. "I keep replaying last night. Did I say or do something to drive him away?"

Minerva cast a compassionate glance his way. "I doubt this has anything to do with you, Severus."

"But how can you be sure? He could be frightened or feel cornered because of something I did. I wish he'd come to me rather than run. I thought he trusted me."

"Harry has a habit of taking matters into his own hands. I'm sure it's not a trust issue."

Severus sighed, resigned. "I thought we were making progress on that front."

Severus gave a nod. "I thought we were fixing that habit of Harry's, but I guess not."

"It takes time," Albus said softly.

"I know," Severus agreed.

Minerva placed her hand on Severus's shoulder, her touch warm and reassuring. "Should we split up? We can look in more places that way."

Severus nodded. "I'll go east, and you go west?"

Minerva gave his shoulder a final pat before turning to walk away. They both felt the urgency to find Harry as quickly as possible.

Meanwhile, Don popped out of thin air at the wizarding hospital, St. Mungo's. He quickly checked if Harry had been brought in. Finding no trace of him, Don let the hospital staff know to alert him if Harry showed up. Then he did the same at a clinic, making sure they would contact him if Harry appeared.

Feeling he'd done what he could at the hospital and clinic, Don sent a magical Patronus message to everyone. He told them he was joining Albus to look in the sky. With another pop, Don and his broomstick were airborne, where he thought Albus would be flying.

Spotting Albus a short distance away, Don flew over. They hovered side by side, high above the ground. "Any luck, Albus?" Don asked.

Albus shook his head, his expression heavy. "I'm going to put magic on the windows. I had spells on the doors, but I never thought Harry would leave through a window. I didn't think he'd run away. Maybe the events of this afternoon affected him more than we realized."

Don looked earnestly at Albus. "This isn't your fault. Harry, like someone else we both know, finds a way when he's determined."

A small smile crossed Albus's lips. "You're right. When Severus ran away years ago, I was scared out of my mind, just like he probably is now."

Don agreed. "And you were lucky Severus didn't have a broom then."

"Yes, but we aren't as fortunate this time," Albus said, sighing.

"Maybe not, but we'll find Harry safe and sound. I'm sure of it," Don assured him.

"Should we split up?" Albus proposed.

"Yes, we'll meet again when we find Harry," Don confirmed. They parted ways, each anxious but hopeful.

As they searched the sky, Harry's broomstick touched down in a dark, chilly forest. He was too tired to keep flying, a reality he faced as his grip on the broom loosened. He now regretted leaving in just a light jacket and worn-out trainers. His warmer clothes were at home, and he hadn't dared to get caught fetching them.

Pulling his jacket tight against the cold, Harry began to walk, his steps hurried but unsure. The forest around him grew darker and colder. Despite this, Harry pushed himself to keep moving. He wasn't scared, he told himself. He wasn't scared at all, even as he shivered against the biting cold.

Harry's heart leapt when he heard a distant wolf howl. Okay, maybe he was a little scared. The darkness of the forest seemed to close in on him. Was that a rustling in the bushes over there?

Clutching his broomstick to his chest, Harry tiptoed forward. "It's just the wind," he told himself, "and the wolf is far away." He took out his wand and gripped it tightly. Although he didn't plan on using it, holding it in his hand provided a shred of comfort.

Suddenly, he heard a familiar voice call out, "Harry!" It was Severus, his Dad. Harry froze. How did Severus know he had run away? He had been so careful, sneaking out while Severus was asleep and not waking Arewn.

Part of Harry yearned to rush into Severus's arms, seeking the warmth and security he knew awaited him. But another part, a louder, more urgent part, told him to flee. He believed his presence put Severus in danger, a fear that had only grown stronger since the events earlier that day. With that thought fueling him, Harry turned and ran down the dark forest path.

It was so dark that he couldn't see where he was going, and before he knew it, he had collided with a tree. The impact knocked him to the ground and dislocated his shoulder. A shrill scream escaped from him as his world spun in pain. He heard footsteps rushing closer and mustered the strength to get up and run again. "I can't get caught," he thought.

"Harry! Harry! It's Severus; I'm not going to hurt you!" Severus's voice echoed in the forest.

Tears filled Harry's eyes as he ran, dropping his broomstick and backpack to make himself faster. The only thought ringing in his mind was to keep Severus safe, even if it meant putting himself in danger.

Severus was close behind, pausing only to pick up and magically shrink Harry's belongings to fit them in his pocket. He finally caught up to Harry and scooped him into his arms, gripping him tightly. "Calm down, Harry, I have you. Please stop struggling, you're safe," Severus tried to reassure him.

Harry, however, began to struggle more. A cacophony of thoughts drowned out Severus's words. "I have to get away; I have to protect him," he thought frantically.

Then, something odd happened. Harry felt an uncomfortable squeezing sensation in his chest, making it hard for him to breathe. When it subsided, he realized Severus was no longer there holding him. Opening his eyes, Harry took a shaky breath. He was alone, without his broomstick or backpack, and even the forest path had disappeared. Now what?

Huddled alone in the forest, Harry drew his knees to his chest and buried his face in them. He let the tears he'd been holding back finally fall. He was scared, lost, and now utterly helpless without even a path to follow. Had he still had his broom, at least he could've escaped into the sky. What could he do now?

Meanwhile, Severus was also in emotional turmoil. After initially spotting Harry, he'd sent a Patronus to the search team to say he had found him. Now, he had to send another, far more distressing message: he had lost him again. The heartbreak was overwhelming. With a wave of his wand, he sent another message through his deer Patronus and rose to his feet.

Severus felt a blend of relief and dread knowing Harry was somewhere in this forest. Relief because Harry was at least not entirely out of reach, and dread because the forest, like any other, had its perils—wild animals, and possibly even Death Eaters who could be hunting for his son.

Just then, Minerva came running over. "Severus, what happened?" she asked breathlessly.

"He had a burst of accidental magic and Apparated himself somewhere. We have to find him; he's hurt and scared!" Severus said, panic edging his voice.

"Alright, Severus, we'll find him. Don't worry," Minerva tried to soothe him as she looped her arm through his and they started walking. Severus was clearly too distraught to be alone, and she felt reassured that the rest of the search team would be coming to help.

Arthur Weasley was the first to arrive, Apparating into the darkest part of the forest. With his wand lit up, he was determined to find Harry no matter what. As he moved deeper into the forest, the sound of sobbing reached his ears. His heart sank and soared at the same time. Following the sound, he found Harry sitting alone in a small clearing.

Carefully, Arthur sat down next to Harry and gently put his arm around him. The contact startled Harry, who looked up with wild, scared eyes.

"Harry, it's Arthur. I'm Ron's father, remember?" Arthur reassured him.

Overwhelmed, Harry launched himself at Arthur, clutching tightly to the man and sobbing into his warm fabric. Arthur held Harry close and sent a Patronus message to the rest of the team. Harry needed calming before they could move. Arthur silently cast a warming charm over them both, concerned at how cold Harry was. "It's alright, Harry; I'm here," he said soothingly.

Amidst his tears, Harry started talking, almost without realizing what he was saying. "I...I don't want him to get hurt! I love him, and he'll get hurt if he's around me!"

Arthur continued to stroke Harry's back, gently rocking him in an attempt to provide some comfort. Harry's words were muffled sobs, making it difficult to understand the depth of his fears. But Arthur knew Harry had to calm down to communicate clearly, and thankfully, exhaustion finally took over the young boy, helping him to reach that point.

Peering into Harry's eyes, Arthur asked, "Who don't you want to get hurt? Is that why you ran away?"

Harry hid his face again in Arthur's worn robes. "Daddy's going to get hurt if I stay...I don't want him hurt!"

"Shhh, child. Your dad is a strong man. He won't get hurt just because you're with him," Arthur tried to reassure him.

Harry shook his head against Arthur's shoulder. "No, everyone I love gets hurt! Malfoy almost hurt him today; I don't want him hurt!"

Arthur sighed deeply and rested his hand on the back of Harry's head, realizing he needed to resort to stronger emotional reasoning. "Did you know Severus was hurt tonight?"

Harry looked up, startled. "Is he alright?"

Arthur gave a small smile. "His heart hurts, Harry. He was so worried when you went missing, he was beside himself."

"What happened?" Harry looked concerned.

"His child, whom he loves more than anything, went missing. That really scared him. He wants you home, Harry. He's a strong man and would do anything to protect you."

Arthur felt Harry rest his face back on his robes and wrapped his arm around him once more. He understood how hard this was for Harry to hear, and equally challenging for him to say. But it was the honest truth, a sentiment any parent would echo. Arthur felt the same way whenever one of his own kids faced danger, which happened more frequently than he would've liked. And Harry, though not a Weasley by birth, was very much an honorary member of the family in his eyes.

"I...I don't want him hurt," Harry repeated softly.

Sighing again, Arthur gently patted Harry's head. "I promise you, he won't get hurt. He misses you. Don't you want to go home?"

Harry shook his head against Arthur's shoulder. "I'll get him hurt!"

Arthur leaned down to kiss the top of Harry's head, exasperated but sympathetic. "How, Harry? How would you get him hurt?"

Arthur really hoped they could move soon. Harry needed to be calm for that, and the last thing anyone needed was for him to try to run off again or, Merlin forbid, have another accidental magical burst.

"Voldemort wants me... if I'm not there, then Daddy won't be hurt," Harry finally revealed.

Arthur's heart sank, grappling with Harry's fear that was both juvenile and painfully mature at the same time. Harry was bearing a burden no child should, entangled in a web of love and mortal peril. It was a lot for anyone, let alone a young boy, to process. Yet Arthur knew that the fear Harry felt was not just for himself, but a testament to his love for Severus. The challenge now was to help Harry see that love should not be a reason to run, but a reason to stay and face life's dangers together.

Arthur locked eyes with Harry, who looked up teary-eyed. The sheer emotion on the boy's face told Arthur this wasn't just about Harry's own safety, but about his dad, Severus, possibly getting hurt too.

Arthur tucked a stray strand of Harry's hair behind his ear. "You're aware of your dad's past, right?"

Harry nodded softly.

"Then you should know that whether or not you're around, there will always be people who want to harm him. Severus can handle himself; he knew what he was getting into when he left that life behind. But you, Harry, need to be protected from such dangers. Promise me you won't run away again."

Harry dropped his gaze, resting his head on Arthur's shoulder. "But I make it more dangerous for him."

Arthur sighed. "No, Harry, you don't. What you do by running away is put yourself in danger."

Harry looked up, worry filling his eyes. "I'm putting myself in danger?"

The idea hadn't even crossed Harry's mind. He was so consumed with keeping Severus safe that he hadn't thought about his own safety. Sure, he knew people were after him, but he thought he could handle it—or at least, sort of handle it.

"Yes, Harry, you're putting yourself in danger. Let's get you back home where it's safe, okay?"

Harry leaned his head back against Arthur and nodded. Thoughts of potential punishment raced through his mind. He recalled his first spanking; it wasn't something he was afraid of, but it certainly wasn't an experience he wanted to repeat anytime soon.

Arthur noticed the change in Harry's demeanor. "What's troubling you?"

"I don't want to be punished," Harry said, a slight whine in his voice.

An eyebrow shot up on Arthur's face. "Well, I don't think anyone ever wants to be punished, Harry."

Embarrassed, Harry buried his head into Arthur's robes. "But he's going to be mad."

Arthur patted Harry's back. "I think he's more worried than mad right now. But yes, once he realizes you're safe, he might not be thrilled that you ran away. He'll understand though, once you talk to him."

Harry sighed and nodded, his head still buried in the soft fabric of Arthur's robes.

"Ready to go home now, Harry?" Arthur asked, his voice tinged with gentle concern.

Harry let out another small sigh but nodded. It was time to face whatever awaited him, surrounded by the people who cared for him.

Arthur nodded, smiling warmly at Harry. "Okay, let's get you home."

Standing up, Arthur cast a weight-adjusting spell to make carrying Harry easier. The night was chilly, and he noticed Harry's cold hands. With a swift warming charm, he added another layer of comfort to the boy's inadequate pajamas.

Lifting Harry onto his hip, Arthur began the walk back to the manor. Normally, he'd Apparate, but he sensed Harry could use the extra time to relax, maybe even fall asleep. Surprisingly, they weren't far from home; Harry's anxious wandering hadn't taken him too far afield.

Ten minutes later, they reached the manor. Severus and Don rushed from the front doors. Arthur gestured for quiet; Harry seemed to have drifted off in his arms. Severus gently took his son from Arthur, holding him close.

"M'sorry," Harry mumbled, half-asleep.

"Sleep now, Harry. We'll talk in the morning," Severus replied softly.

Feeling the comforting warmth of his dad's robes, Harry nestled closer. Punishments and discussions could wait; for now, he just wanted to sleep.

Severus looked gratefully at Arthur. "Thank you, so much."

Arthur shook his head. "No need. Let's get Harry to bed. He seems to have hurt his arm."

"Could you stay for a bit?" Severus asked.

Arthur patted Severus' shoulder. "Of course."

The small group, plus Don, headed inside. Arthur sensed that his concern wasn't only for Harry, and Don's nod confirmed it. Unbeknownst to Harry, he'd gathered a makeshift family that cared deeply for him.

Minerva was the first to make her way through the assembled crowd and approached Severus. She carefully placed her hand on Harry's forehead. "He's so cold; it's fortunate he hasn't developed hypothermia. As his Head of House, I should reprimand him for such recklessness when he awakens, but..."

Severus offered a subdued smile to Minerva, who was generally strict in her demeanor. He was well aware that under other circumstances, she would have no qualms about chiding both him and the boy. However, the sight of Harry's frail condition had clearly softened her stance. "I understand, Minerva. I need to get him to bed and have Don examine him. We'll reconvene in the morning for you to address his behavior, alright?"

Minerva looked up at Severus with a sense of relief. "Promise me you'll look after yourself as well. Don't spend the entire night beside his bed. Get some rest."

Severus nodded appreciatively, his gaze lingering on Harry. Minerva, seizing the moment, leaned in and tenderly kissed his forehead. "If you require any assistance, don't hesitate to contact me, Severus."

A mild blush appeared on Severus' face as he looked up at Minerva. She had always been a sanctuary of sorts for him, particularly during his own turbulent years at the school. "I will," he assured her.

Minerva nodded, stepped back, and vanished through the Floo Network, likely attending to responsibilities related to her other students. Severus turned to ascend the staircase but noticed Remus Lupin standing hesitantly near the couch. The man appeared caught in an emotional dilemma, evidently wanting to approach Harry but restraining himself.

As Remus moved closer, he hesitated. The werewolf was torn. He really wanted to see Harry, his cub, but he wasn't sure if it was the right time for them to meet. When Severus noticed his hesitation, he invited him over.

"Remus, it's alright. He's asleep, come here."

Remus looked at Severus and felt a small wave of relief. He went over and looked at the tiny boy, brushing some hair away from his forehead. "He's so small. Can I come by in a few days to get to know him better?"

Severus smiled and nodded. "That sounds like a good plan. Let's take it slow. He remembers you, at least a little."

Remus gently touched Harry's cheek. "He looks so much like Lily. Thank you, Severus. I'll see you soon?"

Severus nodded and went upstairs, followed by Arthur, Albus, and Don. Remus stayed downstairs for a little longer before heading home. Upstairs, Severus carefully put Harry in bed and stepped aside so that Don could check him over. Arthur motioned for Severus to come sit. Severus took one last look at Harry and then joined him.

Severus asked, "Did Harry say why he ran away?"

"He was really worried about you," Arthur said softly, sharing Harry's concern for Severus.

Severus put his head in his hands, feeling overwhelmed. "What should I do now?"

Albus came over and put his hand on Severus' shoulder. "You've been doing a great job taking care of him. Keep doing that. Make sure he understands that he shouldn't go anywhere without an adult. And, yes, you'll need to give him some kind of punishment."

Severus looked up, still conflicted. "Should I make him stand in a corner or should I ground him?"

Arthur raised an eyebrow. "You have rules for Harry, just like I have for my kids. You told Harry what would happen if he did something dangerous. Remember?"

Severus felt a mix of relief and concern as he nodded miserably. "Earlier, I was prepared to spank him for scaring me so much. But then he was so cold... is it really the right thing to do?"

Albus gave Severus's shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Remember when you ran away as a child and the consequences that followed?"

Feeling a bit embarrassed, Severus nodded. "I never even thought about running away again after that."

Arthur chimed in with a smile. "Parenting is a tough job. You've set boundaries for Harry, and it's important to stand by them, otherwise, he might get confused."

"Alright, I'll talk to him in the morning," Severus decided.

"If you'd like, I can stay," offered Albus.

Shaking his head, Severus responded, "No, we'll manage. Thank you."

Sensing that Severus wanted some private time, perhaps to talk with Arthur, Albus gave his shoulder one final comforting pat. "I'll head back to the school. You know where to find me if you need me."

Severus nodded in acknowledgment as Albus left the room. He then turned his attention to Don, who was attending to Harry.

"Why don't you go see your son now," Arthur asked, reading Severus's expression.

Walking over to Don, Severus asked, "How's Harry doing?"

Don handed Severus a clean pair of pajamas. "He's doing well now. Why don't you get him changed while I go thank Arthur for bringing Harry back safely?"

"Thank you, Don," Severus said, gratefully accepting the pajamas.

Don flashed a warm smile. "It's fine, go see with your own eyes that Harry is alright."

Severus moved towards Harry and looked down at him with a bittersweet smile. Placing the clean pajamas on the bed, he gently began changing his son into them. A sense of relief washed over him as he verified Harry's well-being for himself, even if it seemed silly to him.

After dressing Harry, Severus sat down in a chair beside the bed. He began to stroke Harry's hair. The boy looked so small and vulnerable in sleep. After a few moments, he withdrew his hand and leaned forward, planting a soft, loving kiss on Harry's forehead.

"Sleep well, child," Severus whispered, his voice imbued with a mix of love and concern.

Severus returned to the rocking chair, his gaze meeting Don and Arthur's. Both were smiling mysteriously, triggering his suspicions. "You two are up to something, aren't you?"

Don's eyes twinkled as he leaned forward. "We thought Harry and Draco might benefit from spending some time together tomorrow. They might share concerns with each other that they're hesitant to discuss with us adults. Like why Harry thinks he's putting you in danger, or why Draco has been so closed-off about his past."

Startled, Severus looked at Arthur. "He's not talking?"

Arthur's expression softened. "He was, until the kids came back home. Then he just shut down. I think he's scared of looking weak. I was going to ask Harry to talk to him, but then tonight happened."

Severus felt a gentle smile curve his lips as he glanced at his son. "After his afternoon nap sounds like a good time. Harry might be more comfortable then."

Before he could continue, Don's grin stretched wider, and Arthur chuckled. The two men's evident amusement unsettled Severus. "Alright, spill it. What's the grand scheme?"

Arthur's eyes met Severus's. "Molly and I are hosting a sizable Christmas party. Harry would love to attend. Albus was supposed to play Father Christmas, but he can't make it. We thought you might step in."

Severus raised an incredulous eyebrow. "You want me, the notorious 'bat of the dungeons,' to play Santa Claus?"

"Think of the children, Severus," Arthur urged. "We can disguise you with glamors. Only Draco and Harry will know it's you."

With a resigned sigh, Severus caved. "Alright, I'll be your Father Christmas. Anything else you'd like to add to my to-do list?"

Don raised an eyebrow and gave him a challenging look. "How about finding a woman and going on a date?"

Severus grimaced, shaking his head. "Let's not add any more complications. I have enough on my plate."

Arthur's smile became tinged with sadness. "Don't close yourself off to the possibility of love, Severus. There's someone out there for you, just waiting to be found. Never give up on that."

Feeling slightly awkward at the turn the conversation had taken, Severus decided to steer clear. "Let's all get some rest. It's been a long night."

Don and Arthur caught the change in tone but agreed. "You're right. We'll continue this another time," said Arthur as he stood up.

"I'll floo call you after lunch to see if it's alright to bring Draco over," Arthur continued.

"That's fine. Tell Draco his mother sent something for him," Severus replied, nodding.

Arthur smiled warmly, "Will do. And please, try to sleep tonight."

"I will," Severus nodded back. Arthur left the room, his footsteps fading as he headed towards the fireplace to go back home.

Left alone with Don, Severus felt the night's exhaustion finally settling in. "Let's get you to bed," Don suggested, extending his hand.

Without a word, Severus took it, standing up more easily than he'd expected. He must really be tired.

Don headed for the door but noticed Severus lagging behind. "I'll wait for you in your room, okay?"

"Just a moment," Severus replied.

Alone at last, Severus approached Harry's bed. He made sure the blankets were snug around his son, even adding an extra one at the foot of the bed for added warmth. As if on cue, a small kitten hopped up and curled on Harry's chest.

Smiling, Severus patted the kitten. "Good. You can be my watch kitten for tonight."

The kitten purred, as if agreeing to the new responsibility.

Bending over, Severus planted another gentle kiss on Harry's forehead. He felt a deep sense of relief wash over him, thankful that Harry was safe. "Don't scare me like that again," he whispered.

After taking one final, affectionate look at Harry, Severus closed the door softly and headed to his own room. He knew he had to change into pajamas before Don returned. The man would probably dress him if he had to, just to make sure Severus got some sleep.

Once in his room, Severus quickly changed into a fresh set of pajamas and sat on the edge of his bed. Soon enough, Don walked in holding a tray with two cups of tea.

"Drink up," Don said, sitting next to Severus and handing him a cup. "I've added a calming potion to it. It'll help you relax."

Severus nodded and drank the warm liquid. He felt its calming effects almost instantly. Placing the empty cup back on the tray, he shifted to lie down on the bed.

Don stood up and set the tray on the dresser. Then, he came over to where Severus was propped against the pillows. "Close your eyes," he said softly.

Severus did as instructed. He felt Don's warm hand on his forehead, sending magic into him that soon had him sinking into peaceful sleep.

With Severus finally asleep, Don pulled the covers up to make sure he was warm. "Goodnight, Severus," he whispered, touching his hair gently before heading out, carrying the tray with him.

Don's gaze peeked into Harry's room one last time before heading downstairs. Harry was wrapped snugly in blankets. Severus had been protective of Harry, so it was only fair to be equally concerned for Severus. The truth was, Harry had been dangerously close to hypothermia. He'd also dislocated his shoulder, likely while attempting to escape earlier. Thankful that the situation hadn't been worse, Don quietly closed Harry's door.

As he reached the kitchen, the house-elf Maya appeared and took the tray from him. "Master Don needs sleep," she insisted.

Don chuckled, "Thank you, Maya. Can you make sure these two don't get into trouble while I'm gone?"

Maya's eyes twinkled. "Maya will make sure they behave!"

"Thank you," Don nodded. He watched as Maya popped away, then headed for the fireplace. If even Maya thought he looked tired, it was definitely time for some rest. With a swirl of green flames, he was gone, ready to put an end to this long and eventful day.