Spinners End

As the light came flooding through the curtains at Spinners End, Severus stirred awake. With a flick of the professor’s wand, the numbers 7:05am glowed in the air. Placing his wand back onto the bedside table, Snape got up and had a shower. He started the day by getting dressed, having a coffee and brewing a batch of potions. This was his normal routine, now however, why did it feel so wrong? He had become accustomed to Harry’s company, he realised that he quite enjoyed their morning breakfast together. By the time lunch came around the professor had completed 2 potions with 3 more still brewing.

As it hit midday, the professor rose up from the basement and decided it was time for lunch. As he was eating his ham and salad sandwich the floo network came to life.

Grimmauld Place

Harry was sitting at the kitchen table opposite his godfather. Sirius was in quite a good mood, which Harry was happy to see. Harry however was not in such a good mood, the only way to describe it would be nervous. In 1 hour, he would have to go over to Snape’s, pack up his things and leave. Not to mention the fact that Snape didn’t know Harry wouldn’t be staying at Spinners End; so, there was that conversation to be had.  

Leaning on his elbow, Harry mushed his porridge whilst sighing. Not able to eat any more food, Harry decided to go upstairs and get dressed. Clad in jeans and a t-shirt Harry threw a handful of floo powder into the fireplace and left.

Spinners End

As the professor was not expecting anyone, he stood up and walked into the lounge room. 

“Ah Severus, how are you my boy” Dumbledore asked smiling.

“What has happened, is it Har.. Potter?” Severus asked sounding mildly concerned.

The headmaster merely waved his hand and walked into Severus’ kitchen, sitting down at the table.

“I have already spoken to both Sirius and Harry. I was going to tell you first, but alas, I had personal business at the ministry which required my urgent attention.” Severus seemed curious and sat still, waiting for the headmaster to continue.

“I was able to use the protection from Harry’s aunt, and use it for Grimmauld Place. So, you see, Harry will in fact be able to live with Sirius from here on out. You must be quite relieved, I know there isn’t much left of the summer holidays, but those last 2 weeks you can use to properly relax and prepare for your new classes”.

After Dumbledore had said ‘Harry will in fact be able to live with Sirius from here on out’ Severus had completely zoned out. He tried to calm down and slow his breathing, there was no time for panic. Why was he feeling like this? Severus thought. He’s your son, that’s why, Severus’ subconscious said. Even though he had tried to push thoughts of Lily’s letter away, Severus could not deny that Harry was his son.

The headmaster had stopped speaking when he saw that Severus’ face had turned ashen white. Just as Dumbledore was about to ask Severus what was wrong, the floo network flared to life. “Ah that should be Harry now” The headmaster clapped as he stood up.

As Harry got out of Snape’s floo he brushed off the soot from his jeans. Looking around the room he sighed, knowing that this would be the last time he would set eyes on it. Not that it was an aesthetically pleasing room/ or house. It just had a quirkiness that reminded him of the professor, and had just made him feel as if he belonged. Hearing scuffling from the next room Harry walked into the kitchen. There sitting at the table was the Headmaster and the professor.

Harry merely staired for a moment, not really knowing what to say. As he was about to say something, the Headmaster stood up and patted Harry on the back.

“Harry, so nice to see you, won’t you have some tea?” Harry gulped and silently sat at the table. Dumbledore excused himself and went to the bathroom, leaving father and son together. Harry thanked Snape for the cup of tea, and occupied himself with drinking his beverage; not knowing what to say to Snape.

“The headmaster has told me of your decision, you are to be moving in at Blacks?” the professor said in a quiet but never wavering voice. 

Harry looked up, and thought to himself ‘when was this ever his decision?’  Simply shrugging his shoulders Harry looked back down at the table. Severus seeing the boy shrugging his shoulders quirked an eyebrow. 

Harry knowing that the professor deserved an explanation decided to calmly explain the situation. “Um, yeh Professor Dumbledore told me the other day. Sirius was pretty excited, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him this happy. I’m just here to take the rest of my belongings; sir (he quickly added).” 

Severus sat there thinking of course the boy would want to be with his godfather. Black, excitable and fun, the perfect companion. He was overcome with a feeling of sadness; his son preferred the mutt to him. In all honesty, who could blame him, he had done nothing but belittle the boy for years. Although hadn’t he changed this summer, and proved that he was in fact sorry for his past behaviour towards him. Swallowing back his emotions, Severus sat up straight when the headmaster re-entered the kitchen.

As the headmaster sat back down at the table, Severus excused himself and went upstairs; needing to be away from everyone at this moment. Going to his bedroom, he sat down and put his head in his hands. He had lost his son before, and now he felt like he was losing him all over again. It was his fault the first time, when Harry was a baby and he had begged Potter Sr. to help them. Guilt, and sadness at the fact that Potter and Black had spent more time with his son than he had, but that wasn’t entirely true. He had spent the past few years of his life looking after Harry, a boy in which he thought was his enemy’s son; life is a cruel bit** Snape thought.

After composing his emotions, he put up his mask and walked down the stairs, just as he was half way down he could hear Harry’s laughter; this made his heart flutter (it was not a sound he would often hear from Harry). 

“And….. then.. Sirius told me that dad fell right off… his… BROOMSTICK” Harry finished in hysterical laughter. 

Severus stood rigid on the step after hearing the last part of the conversation. Holding onto the banister, Severus realised that he truly loved Harry. And after hearing how happy his son was; who was he to deprive him of happiness; happiness that he as a child had none of. Obviously, the boy was happier at his godfather’s house than his teachers house. Without a moment longer, lest they wonder where he had gone. He went into Harry’s room walking over to the bedside table. There was a quill, a few pieces of chocolate, but the main item that Severus was going for; the journal. Opening it, there were 2 letters wedged inside. Severus understood enough to put two and two together.

Lily was to send 3 letters, 1 to him (which he already had in his possession) and the last two for Harry and the headmaster. Without another thought, Severus grabbed the two remaining letters, replacing them with 3 other blank letters. With the true letters that Lily had written, Severus went back into his room opened the closet and placed the letters in his box of memorable keepsakes. They consisted of valuable items and childhood trinkets; some that Lily had given him. His son would never know the truth, how could he ruin the image that Harry had of his father? Without another thought Severus walked back downstairs telling Harry that he shouldn’t keep his godfather waiting and that he needed to pack his belongings. 

 Whilst Harry was upstairs packing everything in is Hogwarts suitcase, the Headmaster sat at the table, and was looking at the potions master over his glasses; with a knowing look in his eyes. 

“I’m proud of you Severus, thank you truly for taking care of Harry. It hasn’t gone past my notice that he is looking much healthier these days, and hascput on a little bit of weight as well. I feel that this also has done you some good my boy, you seem more at ease.” 

If only you knew, Severus thought.

Dumbledore bid Severus farewell, leaving Harry and Severus alone. After Harry had finished packing his bags, he went back downstairs to say good bye to his professor. This wasn’t before he walked around his bedroom at Spinners End a few times, not really wanting to leave, but knowing he had to.

After shaking the professors hand, and thanking him for everything Harry let the professor shrink his belongings. 

“Thanks for everything professor” Harry said sounding sincere yet sad.

“Well, if you need anything...” The professor simply said, not knowing what to say in these sorts of situations. Especially in these sort of situations, Harry was his son, and it really did feel like goodbye. Unexpectedly, Harry put his hand out, to which the professor looked at then shook. They both understood in that moment, that their animosity towards each other was gone. 

With a final watery smile from Harry, he waved goodbye and left via the floo. Leaving Severus feeling truly alone.

Grimmauld Place

Back and Grimmauld Place Harry was unpacking his bag whilst Sirius was lying on the bed telling Harry about his Hogwarts days. Harry made sure to not unpack everything, in 2 weeks he would be back at Hogwarts anyways.

“You know, you can leave some stuff here Harry, you will be coming back for Christmas yeah?” Sirius asked looking hopeful, Harry merely nodded his head and smiled. Harry was very happy that his godfather was finally feeling less depressed, but he couldn’t help but feel that some of that sadness had crept into his own heart. He pulled out a very thick winter coat, ideal for the Scottish winter (As Snape had said). The professor had bought him so many clothes, he had to pay the man back, as it were; he wasn’t his guardian anymore. 

Once Sirius had left, Harry reached into his bag and started to write on a piece of parchment.

To Gringotts,

I, Harry Potter would like 300 Galleons to be transferred to Severus Snape’s vault.

Regards,

Harry Potter

Not knowing if it would work, it was worth a try. After sending off his letter with Hedwig, he went downstairs for an early dinner, Kreacher had been making better food these days; the aroma that was wafting upstairs was simply mouth watering.

One week had gone by, with Harry spending everyday talking with his godfather; it had started to get a little boring. Harry that morning had received a letter from Gringotts bank saying that the funds he wanted transferred were declined. Harry knew there was more than sufficient funds in his vault, why was it declined? maybe because he didn’t go into the branch himself?

His confusion was answered later that day when another owl, one he knew quite well flew in through the window of his room. Giving the bird a pet on the head as well as a treat, he removed the letter from its foot.

Dear Mr Potter,

I hope that what you did was a joke. I received a letter from Gringotts asking if it was true that Harry Potter was trying to deposit 300 Galleons into my bank account. I responded promptly saying that it was inaccurate and a mistake.

I am very disappointed in you, I explicitly told you previously that I did not now, nor ever wish to be repaid for the clothes I gave you. You were under my care and needed new belongings, they are yours to keep and enjoy. 

I suggest you never try to reciprocate monetarily, unless you would like house points to be deducted on the first day of school. Save, and use your money wisely. 

You will be glad to know that you will be allowed to take NEWT Potions. I reviewed your owl results in potions, where you received an Exceeds Expectations, which is very good considering the drivel you used to turn in. However, over the summer your work was of an Outstanding Level; you have greatly improved.

You need not worry about your marks betraying you from getting into potions this year, that decision will be made by Professor Slughorn your new Potions teacher. Try to review those Newt texts that I told you about, I’m sure Blacks library will have various copies. 

P.s. He admits Exceeds Expectations students.

Regards,

Severus Snape

After reading the letter Harry couldn’t help but feel happy, fortunate even, that Snape had taken the time to tell him his marks. He had not yet received his Owl results, so finding out that he got an EE in Potions was music to his ears. He was mildly ashamed that he had the gall of trying to deposit money into Snape’s account. Laughing, Harry wondered how the professor had looked when he read the letter from Gringotts. He was truly going to miss Snape, who knew if he would go back to his old self. Stopping and re-read the letter, having just realised what Snape had said. He was not going to be teaching potions! Did this mean that he was fired? Had he decided to leave after putting up with him for too long, had this summer made the professor want to flee from brats like himself?! Taking a fresh piece of parchment Harry replied.

Dear Professor,

I’m sorry, it’s just that no one has ever bought me as many nice things as you have. I normally have to buy basics/clothes for myself, at my own personal expense; I’m just used to it. I guess my OWL results are coming in the mail soon, I know you’re not too happy with that mark, but I think it’s a pretty good potions mark. It’s good to hear I can continue on with potions, however I’m a little confused. Who is Professor Slughorn and why is he teaching potions?

Hopefully taking care of me this summer has not left you having a mental breakdown and never wanting to teach students every again! 

P.s. It’s still Harry, not Potter

Harry sat in the kitchen, eating his porridge whilst reading a letter than Snape had sent. Harry waved at Professor Lupin as he entered the kitchen. After a quick greeting Harry eagerly went back to his letter. The letter stated that Professor Snape was now going to be the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher; in which Harry smirked knowing his professors longing to teach said subject.

Apparently, Professor Slughorn was Snape’s as well as his parents Potions teacher. Snape made it known to Harry that Slughorn tried to ‘collect’ and was infatuated in finding the best students, or students with famous/ well known parents; and that he did so, with the hope that one day he would get something out of it. Very Slytherin Harry thought.

Looking at the letter Harry continued to read.

 “Without saying, the boy who lived would be his most prized possession. He normally has a few parties every year, your mother was a member: The Slug Club is what he called it. As I am now aware, that you do not like the spotlight you might find his character grating; I know I do. 

“Suffice it to say, with your status and your mother being an alumni member of his group, he will most definitely be going easier on you in potions. However, If I hear of your grades slipping, you will be personally hearing from me. I did not spend most of my summer training you to become an intelligent potioner, for you to merely forget everything for quidditch.”

At reading the final dregs of the letter, Harry could not help but smile from ear to ear. The professor was not only warning him, but also complementing him on his potions skills. 

“What’s got you smiling like that? Got a letter from your girlfriend ay?” Sirius said while wiggling his eyebrows.

Harry stuck his tongue out making a gagging noise. “ Ew, no! It’s just Professor Snape” Harry dropped the letter and drank a glass of orange juice. 

At hearing Severus’ name, Sirius became unhinged.

“Why on earth is that dungeon bat writing to you?!” Harry quickly replied seeing that his godfather was getting hot headed.

For a good 15 minutes Harry tried to explain how it started when he had tried to send Snape 300 Galleons for his clothes. After he had told his godfather everything Sirius merely acted like a sulking child. ‘Still don’t know why you have to message him that much’ He said under his breath, jealousy dripping.

“Well I think it’s nice that Harry and Severus have gotten over their animosity towards each other. It seems like you had a nice time over there” Remus said.

“Well, I did..” Harry said hesitantly looking from Remus to Sirius, who at this point had left the room, fuming; Harry merely sighed.

“It’s ok to say that you enjoyed yourself Harry. Sirius just wishes you didn’t go there, although I don’t think the same. I think it’s good you went, buried the hatch so to speak. Are you happy here Harry?” Remus asked tilting his head to the side.

Harry looked like a deer caught in headlights. “Well, I like it here, Sirius seems really happy that I’m here. And it’s good to spend more time with him.” 

“Harry your avoiding my question” 

“I don’t know, I sort of miss Snape’s you know.” Remus looked at Harry sympathetically.

Leaving Remus to ponder with his thoughts, Harry went back upstairs with a pounding headache. It didn’t help that on the way out of the bathroom he smacked the back of his head. Deciding to go for a short nap, Harry closed the curtains and took his shoes off. Just as he was about to take his right shoe off he stole a glimpse of a book under the chair in the corner of the room.

Walking over to it, he picked up the book; his journal. All of a sudden everything came back to him, Harry didn’t know if it was the smack on his head, but he remembered everything. The letter from his mother, the three letters. Quickly ripping open the journal Harry sighed when he saw the 3 letters. He clutched them to his chest and laid back down. Looking at all three letters Harry felt the difference in texture. These letters felt new compared to the rough crumpled older letters. Looking down at the letters, brow furrowed, harry opened one of the letters. With a drop in his stomach Harry realised with dread that these 3 letters were fake. The letters from his mother, only one would open, the other 2 were sealed shut. These three letters however were all blank and opened.

Clutching his head, Harry dove into his suitcase and rummaged around hoping to find the other letters. After realising that they were gone, he sat back on his heels and cried.