Severus Snape sat on his bed in the clinic glaring on the plate of food in front of him. He had no appetite, and the mere thought of eating made him feel nauseous. But Don was being insistent.
"Come on Severus, eat please," Don urged, his tone gentle but firm.
Severus shot him a withering glare, one that could make even the bravest seventh-year student quiver in fear. He let out a low growl, as if to convey his frustration.
Don merely rolled his eyes at the man's dramatics. "Yes, yes, I know Severus. You are the meanest Professor in Hogwarts," he said, his lips twitching in amusement. "But I also know that you need your strength up to be snarky and mean to those poor students. So eat!"
The man huffed, but he knew Don was right. With a heavy sigh, Severus reluctantly picked up his fork and began to poke at his food. He wasn't sure what it was, but it didn't look particularly appetizing. However, he knew he had to eat it if he wanted to regain his strength.
Don noticed Severus's reluctance and sent him another look. "Come on Severus," he said in a gentle tone. "I know you want to set a good example for someone else in here."
He sent one last glare at Don, but when he saw the warning look the Healer was giving him, he sighed and looked down at his meal. He began to eat slowly, still not enjoying it, but at least making an effort.
Don patted Severus on the arm, giving him a small nod of approval. "Good job, Severus"
The Healer shifted his attention to the almost-teenager sprawled on the next bed. He had completely missed the show put on by Severus, caught up in his own world of devouring his meal. The Healer couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that Harry had not witnessed Severus' crankiness he would witness that soon enough.
Taking a seat in the chair that separated the two beds, Don, observed his two boys. Just ten minutes ago, he had gently roused them from their slumber and placed trays of steaming hot food on their laps. Don wanted to be sure they both ate a good meal before they went back to Severus's rooms. Especially Severus.
As soon as Harry caught sight of the scrumptious food in front of him, his sleepy eyes widened in excitement, causing Don to chuckle softly. He knew that he was going to have his hands full with this little rascal. The boy's lively spirit was infectious, and Don had a sneaking suspicion that his antics were going to cause much amusement in the future.
Severus, on the other hand, was not as enthusiastic about the meal as Harry. He groaned and grumbled, insisting that he wasn't hungry. However, with the help of an appetite stimulant and a few stern scowls, Don finally managed to get him to eat. It was a challenging task, but Don was determined to see Severus nourished and healthy.
Don shook his head to clear his thoughts and refocused on Severus, who was enjoying his meal with gusto. However, Severus suddenly stopped eating and looked at Don with pleading eyes. Don let out a sigh and went over to sit beside him.
Reaching out Don placed his hand on Severus's forehead, hoping to find it cool and clammy. Instead, he felt the heat radiating off it and immediately felt a pit form in his stomach. Without hesitation, Don gently took the tray of food away from Severus and placed it on the bedside table. He then help Severus so he was laying down and proceeded to remove the pillows from under Severus's head so that he was lying flat on his back.
The healer cast a silencing spell around the two of them, ensuring that their conversation would remain private. He knew that Severus preferred to keep his ailments to himself, and he didn't want Harry to overhear their discussion and worry needlessly.
"How long have you felt unwell, Severus, and why did you not say anything?" Don inquired, his voice soft and low.
Severus turned his head towards the wall, his breaths coming out in shallow gasps. He let out a small sigh before finally answering.
"It was just a small stomach ache before I went to sleep. It was nothing," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
The healer placed a gentle hand on Severus's arm, feeling the man shiver slightly under his touch. "Talk to me, Severus," he said in a calm tone.
He hesitated for a moment before turning his head slightly towards Don. "I didn't want to bother you. It was nothing serious," he said, trying to downplay his discomfort.
Don's frown deepened as they fell into the usual dance of Severus stubbornness when it came to seeking help. "You know better than to keep even the smallest hurt from me, Severus. Now relax and let me see what's wrong," he said firmly, yet gently.
Severus nodded in resignation, allowing Don to lift his pajama top and examine him. Don's skilled hands traced Severus's abdomen, sending out magic to diagnose the problem. He also sent a soothing magic to ease Severus's pain, and a touch of warmth to keep him comfortable.
As Don's magic flowed through Severus's body, the man's tense muscles slowly began to relax. He closed his eyes, feeling the magic working its way through his body, soothing and healing.
When Don was finished, he replaced Severus's top and placed his hand on the man's forehead. "It's just a small stomach ache and fever. Nothing serious, but I want to give you a stomach soother and fever reducer to make sure it does not get worse. Next time, please tell me when you don't feel well before you eat, and I can get you something milder," he said, his voice gentle but firm.
Nodding, Severus still felt the effects of the magic flowing through his body. His stomach was too upset to complain or argue with Don.
As Don turned to leave, Severus's hand shot out and grasped his arm. Concern etched on Don's face as he turned back to face Severus.
"What's wrong, Severus?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.
Severus's head was throbbing with pain, and he needed something to alleviate it. He had been hesitant to mention it before, but he knew he had to speak up.
"Head," he muttered, his voice barely audible.
Although Don was aware that Severus had a headache, he hoped that Severus would speak up and acknowledge his discomfort. Don believed that it was beneficial for Severus to admit his pain and wished to motivate him to do so more frequently.
"I'll get you something to ease your headache. I appreciate you telling me about it, Severus."
Don gave his arm a gentle pat. "I'll be back soon, Severus," Don assured him.
After seeing Severus' nod, Don checked that Harry was still eating and when he saw he was he left the room. A few moments later, he returned with four potions in hand. He quickly made his way back to the bed and gently helped Severus sit up, placing the pillow back behind his head.
With Severus' eyes still closed, Don administered the headache potion first, as it seemed to be a particularly severe headache so he wanted to take care of that first.
As Severus swallowed the thick potion, he grimaced at the unpleasant taste, but then relaxed as the burning pain in his head dissipated, allowing him to open his eyes without discomfort.
"Thank you," he murmured.
"You're most welcome, Severus. Now it's time for the stomach soother," Don said.
Severus took the potion and drank it in one gulp. As the potion took effect, he let out a sigh of relief and took the final potion that Don offered him. After downing it, he relaxed back onto the bed and gave Don a grateful look.
Once Severus had taken the fever reducer, Don placed a hand on his forehead and sighed in relief as he felt that it was no longer as hot. He then retrieved the fourth potion and waved it in front of Severus.
Don looked at Severus with a serious expression as he handed him the final vial of potion. "Just one more, Severus. And it is not optional."
Severus let out a sigh of resignation and scowled at the vial, knowing all too well the taste he was about to endure. He took the nutrient potion from Don's hand and examined it for a moment before quickly downing the entire contents in one gulp. The unpleasant taste caused him to grimace, and he promptly handed the vial back to Don.
The healer couldn't help but smile slightly at Severus's reaction, and he patted him on the shoulder in a reassuring manner. "After Harry is finished eating, you two should head back to Hogwarts so Harry can get used to your rooms. Perhaps you could also share those photos you were talking about earlier."
Nodding slightly, Severus felt relieved that the ordeal was almost over. He sat up a little straighter in bed and listened intently as Don continued. "But remember, if you start to feel worse or this 'stomach ache' turns into anything more serious, you must call me immediately. This is not a request."
Don gave him a stern look, and Severus felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. "I will, Don," he promised.
"Good," Don said firmly. "You can leave your things here if you want, since you're coming back tomorrow. Why don't you get up and get dressed if you're feeling up to it? Although, you'll just be getting back into your pajamas when you return."
Don rose from his spot on the side of the bed, stretching his limbs and letting out a soft sigh. As he did so, he glanced over at Severus, who was now sitting up on the edge of the bed, his long legs swinging over the side.
"I'll get dressed," Severus announced, his tone clipped but polite. "I wanted to have a word with Minerva after Harry goes to bed."
"You're going to ask her to come tomorrow when I run the tests on Harry to see if he has any learning disabilities?" Don asked kindly.
Severus nodded, his dark eyes flickering with worry. "She has a right to be there as his Head of House, and I would like to have her there."
Don patted the man on the shoulder in agreement as Severus stood up from the bed and made his way over to a small table in the corner of the room. Opening a drawer, he pulled out a set of clothes and disappeared into the bathroom to change.
As Severus dressed, Don canceled the silencing charm and walked over to where Harry was finishing up his meal. The boy looked up at him with bright green eyes, a small smile on his face as he took the last bite of his food.
"How was your dinner, Harry?" Don asked, as he sat down on the bed next to the young boy. His gentle hand came to rest on Harry's knee, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath his fingers.
Harry's face lit up with a smile as he looked up at the Healer. "It was very good," he replied, his voice soft but cheerful.
Don's smile widened at the boy's response, and he reached over and carefully removed the tray from Harry's lap, his hands moving with a skilled grace as he vanished it away to be cleaned in the kitchens.
With the task complete, Don turned his attention back to Harry. "So, have you decided on a name for your new lion?" he inquired kindly.
Harry's cheeks reddened with a shy blush, and he cast his eyes downwards, avoiding Don's gaze. "Lio," he murmured softly, his voice barely audible.
Don leaned back in his chair, his eyes sparkling with delight. "Lio, the majestic lion," he mused, his voice laced with admiration. "What a perfect name for such a noble creature."
Harry looked up tentatively, his eyes searching for Don's approval. "You really think so?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
He reached over and patted Harry's hand, a gesture of comfort and support. "I'm sure he'll love it just as much as you do."
Don gazed at Harry with a twinkle in his eye, his heart swelling with affection. "You know, Harry," he said, his voice low and conspiratorial, "I have a feeling that you and Lio are going to have some amazing adventures together."
As soon as Don mentioned the idea, Harry's face brightened with excitement, and his eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Really?" he asked, unable to contain his eagerness.
Don nodded, a broad smile spreading across his face. "Oh, yes," he said, his words rich with embellishment. "I can see it now. You and Lio, riding off into the sunset, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your faces."
A chuckle escaped Harry's lips as he envisioned the scene in his mind. "That would be some sight," he grinned, his voice filled with mirth.
Don smiled gently, "It would be pretty amazing, Harry," he said, his voice soft but firm. "I promise you that. Now, why don't you go get ready to go home for the night? Tomorrow, we can discuss your last test and perhaps some more that I would like you to take."
Harry nodded meekly, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed much like Severus had done earlier. Don reached out to steady him, his eyes sparkling with warmth and kindness.
As Severus emerged from the bathroom, Don caught his eye and motioned for him to come closer "I'm going to go fetch a potion for Harry," he whispered, his expression grave. "Upset stomachs are no fun, especially when it's from the Floo."
Don swiftly exited the room, leaving Harry to emerge from his bathroom still wearing his cozy pajamas. Though the sight made Severus chuckle, he quickly composed himself.
"Do you want to get dressed, Harry, or do you just want to go home like that?" he asked.
Harry's cheeks turned a deep shade of red as he looked down at his feet. "Could I stay in my pajamas, sir?" he asked timidly.
Severus gave a small nod. "You can, Harry. Normally, I have a rule that when it's still light out, you have to be dressed, but these are special circumstances."
Relieved, Harry walked over to his bed and began making it. Taking Harry's cue, Severus followed suit and made his own bed.
As they finished up, Severus approached Harry and lifted him up so he could sit on the bed. "Did Don tell you we were going back home?" he asked.
Harry nodded his head shyly. "He also said that we would go over the test he did today tomorrow."
Severus sighed, sensing the nervousness in Harry's voice. Why did Don have to mention the test at all? Now, the poor child would worry all night.
"Don't worry, Harry. Everything is fine," he reassured the boy, wrapping his arm around his shoulders for comfort. Harry leaned into the embrace, grateful for the support.
As Don walked into the room, Severus sent him a steely glare that could cut through ice. At first, Don was bewildered, unable to discern the meaning behind the intense look. But as he caught sight of Harry sitting on the bed, fidgeting nervously, he realized the gravity of the situation.
Letting out a small sigh, Don walked over to the bed and placed the vial he had gone to retrieve on the bedside table. He then sat down on Harry's other side, placing a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder.
Don spoke softly, "What's wrong, Harry?" His words were filled with empathy and compassion.
Harry's response was hesitant and subdued. He lowered his head and whispered, "Can we talk about that test now?"
"We can talk about it, Harry," Don replied in a calm and reassuring tone. "But I had hoped that we could wait until morning when we have all had a good night's rest."
Harry's eyes pleaded with Don, "Please, I need to know."
"Alright, Harry. That test we did scanned all the bones in your body and checked to see how hard they were," Don explained. He paused, taking a moment to send a wave of calming magic to Harry so he would be more at ease.
"It seems, Harry, that your bones are not as hard as they should be. They are actually quite soft. What that means, Harry, is that it takes very little for your bones to break, and you are going to have to be very careful."
Harry's eyes widened in alarm as he looked up at Don. "Quidditch?" he asked, the fear in his voice palpable.
Don heaved a heavy sigh, his eyes clouded with worry and concern. "I'm sorry, Harry, but right now, I just don't know. We're going to have to try a few things and see how you respond. I'm going to prescribe some calcium and Vitamin D supplements for you to take, and we'll monitor your progress over the next few months to see if you're fit to rejoin the team."
Harry's breaths came in ragged gasps as he struggled to calm himself. Don's gentle hand rested on his chest, radiating a soothing magic that should have brought Harry some comfort. But the boy was too distressed, too lost in his own thoughts and fears to accept the help.
Don glanced over at Severus, silently pleading for assistance. With a swift nod, the potions master slipped out of the room in search of a calming potion or a nurse who could provide one.
As Don continued to pour calming magic into Harry, he could feel the boy's resistance waning. But it wasn't enough. After several minutes of trying, Don realized that his current approach wasn't working. He needed to try something else.
Without a second thought, he scooped Harry up into his lap, holding the trembling boy close to his chest. The close contact was enough to snap Harry out of his haze.
Just then, Severus reappeared, a small vial of potion in his hand. Don gratefully accepted it and held it up to Harry's lips. "Come on, Harry," he urged gently. "Drink this potion. It will help you feel better and make it easier for you to breathe."
Harry reluctantly allowed Severus to help him swallow the potion, his throat tight with anxiety. But as soon as the liquid hit his stomach, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. His tense muscles slowly relaxed, and his breathing evened out.
He slumped against Don, grateful for the Healer's comforting presence. Don's hand continued to send calming magic into Harry but now at a gentler pace.
As Harry's mind cleared, he focused on Don's voice, following the Healer's instructions to breathe slowly and deeply. It wasn't long before his heart rate slowed, and his breathing became more regular.
Don smiled at Harry, a reassuring hand on the boy's shoulder. "Very good, Harry. You're doing great. Just keep breathing with me."
Harry shook his head, tears welling up in his eyes. "I'm sorry...I'm so weak."
Don's expression turned stern. "No, Harry. You are not weak. You are strong, and you are going to get through this. But first, you need to calm down."
He continued to talk softly to Harry, offering words of encouragement and support. Meanwhile, Severus had repositioned himself on the bed next to the two of them, his hand gently rubbing circles on Harry's back.
After a few moments, Don slowly withdrew his hand and stopped the magical flow. Harry's breathing returned to a normal rhythm and his tense muscles relaxed. The young wizard looked up at Don, his green eyes glistening with unshed tears.
"Are you calm enough to talk now and tell me why you became so upset?" Don asked, his voice gentle and soothing.
Before Harry could work himself up again, Don placed his hand back on his chest and started a gentle trickle of magic. The warmth spread through Harry's body, easing the tension and helping him maintain a slow, steady breath.
With a small nod, Harry spoke in a low voice. "I need to fly...it's the only time I feel...free."
Don's expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. "I never said you could not fly Harry; I just said that quidditch was too dangerous at the moment."
The words lifted a weight off Harry's shoulders, and a glimmer of hope shone in his eyes. "I can still fly?"
Don nodded, his eyes bright with a smile. "Yes Harry, but there will be certain restrictions. You will always need an adult near by to catch you if you were to fall, and we will have to add some extra safety charms to your broom just so nothing happens."
Harry's lips turned up into a grateful smile. "Ok...I'm sorry I freaked out..."
"Don't be too hard on yourself, Harry. You have nothing to apologize for," Don reassured him, his soothing voice helping to calm the boy. "You felt like something you loved was being taken away from you, and that's understandable. Your emotions are raw right now, and it's okay to let them show."
Harry let out a deep sigh of relief, his head dropping back to rest on Don's shoulder. As Don eased the flow of magic, Harry felt the tightness in his chest loosen and his racing thoughts begin to slow.
"Do you need some time to relax, or would you like to head back home now?" Don asked gently.
Harry nodded, feeling drained from the intense emotions he had just experienced. "Can we go home, please?"
"Of course," Don replied, a kind smile on his face. "But first, let's make sure you're feeling better. Take this stomach soother I brought for you, and grab Shadow and Lio. Then we can head back through the floo."
As Harry took the potion and retrieved his beloved plushies, Don turned to Severus and spoke in hushed tones, so as not to worry the boy. "I'll give you a supply of that potion as well. If Harry has another nightmare like he did last night, it might be beneficial for both of you if he takes it."
Severus nodded gratefully, his concern for Harry evident in his eyes. He smiled down at the boy, holding out a hand for him to take. "Alright, Harry. Let's go home."
With a gentle smile, Don handed the potion to Harry, who gratefully took it and downed it in one gulp. As the potion began to take effect, Severus rose from his chair and took Harry's small hand in his own, leading the boy out of the room with Don following closely behind.
As they made their way towards the floo, Don paused and placed a hand on each of their shoulders, causing them to turn and face him. "Remember, if you need me, don't hesitate to call," he reminded them, his voice full of concern.
Both Harry and Severus nodded, their gratitude for Don's kindness evident in their eyes. With Severus still holding tightly onto Harry's hand, they stepped through the floo.
As they arrived back at Hogwarts, Severus held onto Harry's arm to steady him as he stumbled on his landing. Harry blushed in embarrassment, but was grateful for Severus's support. With a small smile, Severus led Harry to the couch, but not before teasing him about his poor landing skills.
"We'll have to work on your landings, Harry," he said with a chuckle, earning a shy grin from the boy.
Once Harry was settled on the couch, Severus knelt down in front of him, his eyes full of warmth and kindness. "I'll be right back, Harry. I have something to show you. Will you be okay for a few minutes?"
Harry nodded eagerly, excited to see what Severus had in store for him. As Severus made his way to his room to retrieve the album he had put away so many years ago, he couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over him.
Opening the trunk where he kept all the things that reminded him of his past, Severus's eyes landed on a familiar scarf that had belonged to Lily. It was the same scarf that she had wrapped around his leg after he had been injured by the forbidden forest. He had tried to return it to her once he had healed, but she had insisted that he keep it.
As he held the scarf in his hand, Severus couldn't help but smile as he was transported back in time. He could feel the warmth of the sun on his face and the soft touch of Lily's hand on his cheek. It was a bittersweet memory, but one that he cherished nonetheless.
Severus paused for a moment, his eyes fixed on the two leather-bound albums resting at the bottom of the trunk. Memories of his childhood with Lily flooded his mind, bringing both a wave of warmth and a pang of longing. He could hear her laughter and see her bright green eyes sparkling in the sunlight as he gently ran his fingers over the cover of the album featuring a picture of them hugging when they were just eight years old.
With a deep sigh, Severus closed the lid of the trunk and held the albums close to his chest as he made his way out of his room. For a moment, he hesitated, unsure if he should share these precious mementos with Harry. But then, he reminded himself that every child had the right to know their parents and their history, especially when they had so few pictures to remember them by.
As he approached the couch where Harry was waiting, Severus felt a sense of purpose wash over him. He sat down beside the boy, carefully placing one of the albums on the nearby side table. Wrapping one arm around Harry's shoulders, he opened the other album to reveal a collection of treasured photographs, each one a precious reminder of Lily's life.
Severus sat down next to Harry on the couch, holding the album with the oval picture of himself and Lily on the cover. He put an arm around Harry's small frame, feeling the warmth of the boy's body against his own. "Would you like to see more pictures of your mother, Harry?" he asked softly.
Harry leaned into Severus, his eyes bright with anticipation. It warmed Severus' heart to see the boy so eager to learn about his mother. He opened the album and began to recount stories of Lily's childhood, pointing out the different pictures as he went along. The memories came flooding back to him, and for a moment, he was transported back to a time when he and Lily had been young and carefree.
"You see, Harry, your mother and I knew each other for a very long time," Severus began, his voice soft and tinged with emotion. "We were like family. Her parents, your grandparents, took me in when I was just a boy. My own father was not a kind man, and after my mother died, they became my surrogate family."
Harry listened intently, his eyes wide with wonder. He had never heard this side of the story before. As Severus continued to explain, Harry reached out and traced the photo with his finger, as if trying to touch the memories of his mother and father.
But then, the mood shifted. "Your mom died?" Harry's voice was filled with sadness.
Severus felt a lump form in his throat. "Yes, Harry. She was very sick, and not even the Healers at St. Mungo's could heal her."
"I'm sorry, sir," Harry whispered.
Severus' arm tightened around Harry's small frame. "It's okay, Harry. It was a very long time ago."
He then turned the page of the album to reveal a photo of Lily dumping dirt over his head in a sandbox. "As you can see, your mother had a mischievous side as well. I couldn't get all of that dirt out of my hair for a full week," he chuckled.
Harry's eyes sparkled with excitement as he flipped through the pages of the old photo album. Each image captured a moment in time, frozen in an instant that Harry could never experience himself. But he didn't mind, not when he had Severus by his side, reminiscing about the past together.
As they reached the last page of the first album, Harry felt a weight press into his side. It was Severus, the man's arm draped comfortably around him as they sat on the couch. Harry looked up at him and smiled, feeling grateful for his presence.
But as Severus closed the book and pulled Harry onto his lap, Harry could sense that something had changed. There was a sadness in the man's eyes, a pain that he couldn't quite conceal. Harry didn't know what to say, so he simply stayed still, letting Severus hold him close.
Severus spoke softly, his voice barely above a whisper, "I'm sorry, Harry." He could feel the weight of his past mistakes bearing down on him as he spoke. "I should have taken you in after your parents died. I shouldn't have left you with your aunt."
eeling a lump form in his throat, Harry struggled to find the right words to say. "It's okay, sir," he said, his voice hoarse with emotion. "I'm here now."
Severus shook his head. "No, Harry. It's not okay. But I promise you, I will do everything in my power to give you the life you should have had with your parents." Harry's heart swelled with emotion as Severus hugged him tightly.
As they pulled apart, Severus suggested that they go through the second photo album tomorrow. Harry nodded, feeling content in the knowledge that he had more memories to discover.
But when Severus suggested that he go take a shower and get ready for bed, Harry hesitated. He didn't want to let go of the man just yet, not when he felt so safe in his embrace.
Severus seemed to sense this, and he let Harry hold onto him for a few moments longer. But eventually, he gently pried the boy's arms away and helped him to his feet.
"Go on, Harry," Severus said, patting him on the shoulder. "Go get ready for bed."
As Harry disappeared into the bathroom, Severus leaned forward, placing his head in his hands and leaning heavily on the table. He had not meant to get so emotional with Harry, but the memories that the photos had stirred up were too much for him to handle. Taking a deep breath, he tried to compose himself before Harry came back.
A few minutes later, the bathroom door opened and a wet-haired child stepped out, looking up at Severus with a hesitant smile. He was grateful for the professor's presence, even if he didn't always show it.
Severus smiled back at Harry, a small glimmer of tenderness in his eyes as he gently guided the boy into his bedroom. But before Harry could even attempt to get into bed, Severus put a hand on his shoulder, stopping him in his tracks.
"Just a moment, Harry," he said softly.
Waving his wand, Severus shrunk the bed slightly, making it easier for Harry to climb in. The boy looked up at him, his eyes questioning.
"No problem, Harry," Severus reassured him. "I can't lift you in and out of bed every morning and night, can I?"
Harry's smile widened a little at that, and he nodded in agreement as he settled into the soft blankets. Severus came over and tucked him in, placing a plushy on each side of him.
"Good night, Harry," he whispered, brushing a hand over the boy's hair. "Call me or come get me if you need anything at all. Okay?"
Harry nodded once more, his eyes already starting to droop. As he drifted off to sleep, Severus sat beside him, stroking his forehead gently. He leaned down and placed a small kiss on Harry's forehead, the gesture full of tenderness.
"Sleep well, child," he whispered, his heart full of love and protectiveness towards the boy who had captured his heart in ways he never thought possible.
Quietly closing the door behind him and placing a monitoring charm on the room, Severus made his way down the dimly lit hallway, his mind focused on the task ahead. He had to visit Minerva and alk with her about Harry's tests tomorrow.
Upon arriving at Minerva's chambers, Severus didn't even bother to check if she was there or not. He threw the floo powder into the fireplace, clearly stating his destination, and stepped into the emerald flames.
As he emerged from the other end, he saw that Minerva had company. Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts, was sitting opposite Minerva, sipping on a cup of tea. The room was filled with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea and the crackling of the fire in the hearth.
Despite the intrusion, Severus confidently made his way over to the vacant chair beside Albus and sat down. He knew that both Minerva and Albus would welcome him, even at this hour.
Minerva raised a single eyebrow as she regarded the unexpected visitor in her office. "Well, well, well. If it isn't Severus Snape, the master of dramatic entrances. Pray tell, what brings you here today? And did Don really let you out of his clutches so easily?"
With a roll of his eyes, Severus let out an exasperated sigh. "I'll have you know it took all of my wit and cunning to escape his grasp, Minerva. You know how relentless Don can be when he's on a mission."
Minerva's eyes widened in surprise. "You're not joking, are you? If Don finds out about this little stunt of yours, he'll have you back in his clutches faster than you can say 'elixir of life'."
Severus huffed impatiently. "I assure you, I am here of my own volition. And Harry is safely tucked away in his room, sound asleep, thanks to Don's watchful eye."
Albus Dumbledore, who had been listening quietly until now, interjected with a gentle pat on Severus's knee. "It's good to hear that Harry is well, my dear Severus. But do tell us, what brings you to our doorstep today?"
Severus turned to face the headmaster, his expression serious. "I come seeking a favor, Albus. And who better to ask than Hogwarts' esteemed deputy headmistress?"
Albus gave a small smile. "Flattery will get you everywhere, my child. Pray, do continue. I can leave you two alone for some privacy if you wish?"
Severus replied, "No, Albus. You can stay. I just wanted to ask Minerva if she would come for Harry's learning ability tests since she is his Head of House."
Before Minerva could respond, Severus abruptly closed his eyes and rushed towards the floo without any explanation. This left the other two individuals feeling worried as they watched him disappear into the flames. They quickly got up and followed him to his quarters.
Upon their arrival, they heard Harry crying and found his door open. They hurried over and peered into the room to see Severus holding the sobbing boy in his arms on the bed.
Minerva had to hold Albus back from going inside, and it was not easy, as she was restraining herself from doing the same. They exchanged helpless glances and silently agreed to wait for Severus to come out in the living room. There was nothing they could do to help or calm the boy down.
Meanwhile, in the room, Harry was slowly starting to calm down. Severus had gently fed him the potion Don had given him. His cries were lessening, but his head was still buried in Severus's robes, and he was holding on tight. "Shhhh it's okay, Harry. It was just a dream. I'm here now, and no one can ever hurt you again."
Severus continued to speak in soothing tones as he rubbed Harry's back, and the boy gradually calmed down, giving only the occasional whimper or hiccup. When he sensed that Harry was ready, he gently pulled the boy away from his chest and gave him a soft, caring look. "Would you like to tell me about it, Harry?"
Looking down, Harry started to cling to Severus once again, as if his life depended on it. "You...you said you didn't want me anymore and...and sent me back...to...to the Dursleys. Uncle was...not pleased..."
Severus immediately began to soothe Harry once more. "Look at me, Harry."
The boy looked up shyly into his professor's worried eyes. "That could never happen, Harry. I would never send you away, especially not back to them. It was just a dream."
To emphasize his point, Severus gently wiped a tear from Harry's face with his thumb and flicked it away into the room. "See it's all gone now, Harry. It was just a dream."
Severus flashed a smile at the boy and conjured a warm washcloth to tenderly wipe away the traces of tears on Harry's face. After finishing, he made the washcloth vanish and handed the child a glass of water that had been resting on the nightstand.
Harry slowly grasped the glass and sipped a few times, his gaze gratefully directed towards the man. "Thank you, Severus," he said, using his name for the first time.
Severus couldn't help but feel moved by the fact that the boy had finally grown comfortable enough to address him by his name. With a gentle smile, he took the glass from Harry and placed it back on the nightstand. "Are you ready to go back to sleep?" he asked gently.
Upon receiving a small nod, he carefully lifted the child from his lap and returned him to bed. After standing up, Severus tenderly tucked Harry in, bidding him a peaceful slumber.
As Harry drifted off, Severus ran his fingers through the boy's hair, and when he was sure Harry was asleep, he let out a sigh. He left his hand on Harry's forehead for a few more moments, then replaced it with a small kiss.
"I would never abandon you, Harry," he whispered.
However, his reverie was broken when he remembered the two figures he had spotted in the doorway while he was soothing Harry. With a small sigh, he realized they were probably waiting for him in his living room. At least they hadn't stayed to watch him comfort the child.
Severus left the room, closing the door behind him, and made his way to the living room where he spotted the two individuals he knew were waiting for him. Sitting down on the couch, Minerva immediately approached him and sat next to him on the couch.
"Is Harry alright? Are you alright?" she asked, her concern evident.
"We're both fine, Minerva. It was just a nightmare, not one of the worst ones," he reassured her.
Minerva put her head in her hands, prompting Albus to join them on the couch and wrap his arms around her.
"You saw how well Severus helped Harry calm down. He'll be alright," Albus said to comfort her.
Minerva lifted her head, looking first at Albus and then at Severus. She managed a small smile and nodded. "I know, Albus. But I can't help feeling like we've let Harry down."
"Don't think of it that way. Think of all the things we can do to make his life better," Albus suggested.
Minerva nodded. "I'll try. Thank you."
She turned towards Severus and replied, "In response to your earlier question, my answer is yes. I will be there for Harry, but I'll also be there for you."
Severus looked at Minerva, his brow furrowed in concentration. "We plan to leave at nine and start the tests at nine-thirty. Is that okay with you?"
Minerva glanced at Albus, who nodded in agreement. "I will find someone to tend to your classes for you," he offered. Her concern for Severus was evident in the lines on her forehead and the worry etched on her face.
Then it's settled. We should depart now and let you rest," Minerva agreed, her eyes flickering with concern.
As Minerva placed her hand on his forehead, Severus flinched slightly, unaccustomed to the touch. He could feel the heat radiating off his skin, a sign of the fever. "You seem a bit warm, Severus. Should I call Don?" she inquired, her voice laced with concern.
Severus sighed, nearly objecting before recalling Don's previous warning. "If you must, but I assure you, I'm fine."
Shortly after, Albus returned with Don in tow. Upon seeing Severus's pale face, Don sat on his other side and placed a hand on his forehead.
"It seems the fever reducer didn't do much good. I cannot administer another for a few more hours. Why don't you take a cold shower to see if it helps cool you down? Albus can accompany you to ensure you don't fall."
Severus blushed, "There's no way I'm taking a shower in front of Albus! I am not a child!"
However, Don gave Severus a stern look, causing him to stop protesting. "Remember, you are still my patient, and I'm concerned you might become dizzy. Albus has seen you in your birthday suit many times before if I recall correctly. So what's the problem?"
Severus's eyes widened, "Do you have no sense of modesty or understanding of privacy? I don't particularly like others seeing me in the nude."
Albus then placed a hand on Severus's arm, "I promise not to look. I'll just sit by the door and wait until you're finished."
"Fine then," Severus replied, and he proceeded to get up from the couch and retrieve his pajamas from the bedroom. After emerging from the bedroom, Albus got up and followed Severus to the bathroom.
Once the two had left the room, Don turned to Minerva, "So you're coming in tomorrow?"
Minerva nodded, and Don placed a hand on her shoulder. "Do you remember when I ran these tests on Severus?"
Minerva nodded again. "I understand. I'll be sitting in a room behind a one-way window where he cannot see me, but I can observe him."
"That's correct, but last time we were fortunate and found no learning disabilities with Severus. This time, however, I'm afraid we might. I've already detected a part of his brain that has been damaged - not severely, but enough to affect his ability to absorb new information."
Minerva looked solemn. "That could explain why his grades weren't great last year. They were near the bottom, but I assumed he was either homesick or too captivated by the wizarding world to concentrate on his studies. As his Head of House, I should have looked into it further or asked him about his difficulties."
"Don't blame yourself, Minerva. You had no way of knowing. We know now, and we'll find a way to help Severus tomorrow."
Minerva placed her hand on top of Don's, which was still resting on her shoulder, and gave it a gentle squeeze. "I know. And how is Severus doing?"
Don snorted. "He's his usual self - stubborn and sarcastic. But having Harry around seems to help. He really cares for that boy, and it's heartwarming to see them interact."
Minerva removed her hand from Don's, and Don removed his from her shoulder. "I even saw Severus become a human pillow for Harry yesterday," she added with a chuckle.
With a sly grin, Don reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, folded piece of paper. He handed it over to Minerva with a mischievous twinkle in his eye.
As she unfolded it, Minerva's eyes widened in surprise. It was a candid photo of Severus and Harry, cuddled up in bed and looking impossibly cute together. She couldn't help but smile from ear to ear as she looked up at Don.
"When did you take this?" she asked, still in awe of the sneaky move.
Don's grin widened. "This morning," he replied. "And you can keep it. I have copies, of course."
But Don wasn't done teasing yet. He dug into his pocket once more and pulled out another photo, this one a larger print of a shot they had taken together earlier that day.
"Speaking of surprises," he said, pulling over the album from the coffee table they had had yet to flip through. "I found a spot in the back for this one."
With a wink, he slipped the photo into the book, knowing that Severus and Harry would be delighted when they came across it later.
Minerva couldn't help but roll her eyes playfully. "You are one big sneak, Don," she said.
Don's laughter filled the room. "Guilty as charged," he admitted. "But it's all in good fun, and it's worth."
As the door creaked open, Severus and Albus emerged from the bathroom. Don signaled for Severus to come closer, and Minerva and Don made space for him to sit between them once again.
But as soon as Severus sat down, Don felt his forehead and furrowed his brow in concern. It was still warm to the touch, indicating that his condition hadn't improved much since earlier that day.
"I'll go get a thermometer," Don said, rising from his seat with purpose. He knew that he needed to take Severus's temperature to determine the best course of action.
After a brief search in the bathroom, Don returned with the instrument in hand. Severus groaned at the sight of it, but he knew it was necessary. Don sat down beside him and motioned for him to open his mouth.
"Come on, Severus. Open up, or we'll have to do this the hard way," Don teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "And I know you don't want Minerva to see your bottom."
Severus rolled his eyes but obliged, opening his mouth so that Don could slip the thermometer underneath his tongue. After a few minutes, Don withdrew the thermometer and examined it closely.
"37.89 degrees," he announced. "Not too bad, but still a bit high for my liking. You should go to bed, and I'll be back in an hour to give you another potion."
Severus stood up from the couch as he nodded. However, before he could depart, Don lightly grasped his arm. When Severus faced him, Don bestowed a gentle smile and said, "I'm proud of you, Severus."
Blushing Severus hastily withdrew from Don's touch, escaping to his bedroom as fast as he could. Meanwhile, Don chuckled and shook his head as he watched him go.
After a moment, Don became serious and directed his attention to Albus. Letting out a sigh, he stated, "We'll need to resume managing Severus's potions for him. He hasn't been taking them."
Albus sadly shook his head in agreement. "I suspected as much, but I didn't want to pressure him too much. You know how he disliked being controlled. Are the potions the same as before? A nutrient potion every morning and an appetite stimulant before each meal?"
Don confirmed, "Yes, that's correct. Would you also be willing to handle Harry's potions since you'll already be managing Severus's?"
Albus responded, "Of course. What will Harry need to take?"
"He'll need to take the same nutrient potion as Severus in the morning, but he'll also need to take it at night. Additionally, due to his weak bones, he'll need to take a calcium and vitamin D supplement in the morning," Don explained.
Albus absorbed the information, gazing at Don with inquisitive eyes. "You mentioned his bones are weak. Will this affect his ability to play Quidditch or engage in other activities?"
Don nodded slowly, releasing a sigh. "Yes, it will. I wouldn't recommend Harry playing Quidditch for several months until we can strengthen his bones. He can still fly, but I advise having an adult present at all times, and I plan on adding extra safety charms to his broom."
"That's a sensible precaution. Are there any other medical needs or information we should be aware of regarding Harry?" Albus inquired.
Don let out a heavy sigh and leaned back in his chair, fatigue etched on his face. He recounted everything he had discovered that day, including what Harry had confided in him about the doctor. After bidding farewell to Severus and Harry, Don had promptly visited the police station to relay Harry's testimony to the authorities.
The officers then escorted him to a large machine with a massive screen displaying countless images. Don's heart sank when he spotted Harry among the pictures, and he quickly pointed him out to the officers. Much to Don's dismay, they informed him that Harry's photos were some of the most widely circulated on the interwhatever, and it would be a daunting task to remove them from every webbook out there. Don was utterly disgusted; there were more photos of the innocent child under his care than he could count on the computer thingy.
Despite the somber news, there was a silver lining. The doctor responsible for Harry's traumatic experience had been captured and was facing a lifetime behind bars. According to the officers, he had victimized hundreds of children, and from what they told Don, he suspected Harry had narrowly escaped an even worse fate.
Don let out a deep sigh after recounting everything he had learned to Albus and Minerva. He noticed that Albus had excused himself, and guessed that the elderly wizard needed to regain control of his magic, so he wouldn't accidentally harm anyone. While Albus was away, Minerva sat on the couch, taking deep breaths to calm herself. Don reached into his pocket and produced a calming draught, handing it over to the frazzled woman.
"Drink that, Minerva. It'll help you relax," Don advised.
Minerva swallowed the potion, and its effects were immediate. She leaned back on the couch and let out a long, tired sigh. "Sometimes, I can't stand people," she grumbled.
Don patted Minerva's arm in agreement. "I know how you feel, Minerva."
Suddenly, Albus emerged from the bathroom and sat back down in his chair. Don was quick to offer him a calming draught as well.
"How are you feeling now, Albus? Would you like a calming draught too?" Don inquired, holding out the vial.
"Yes, please," Albus replied wearily.
As Don handed the potion to Albus, his piercing gaze remained fixed on the Headmaster's face. A flicker of concern danced across his features as he watched Albus avoid his question.
"You avoided my first question," Don said, his voice laced with a hint of gentleness. "Could you please answer it?"
Albus hesitated for a moment, his mind filled with a flurry of emotions. But then he made a decision and downed the potion in one gulp. He returned the vial to the man and tried to put on a brave face.
"I'm fine now Don. Can we leave it at that?" he said, hoping to avoid any further probing.
But Don was not easily fooled. "I could leave it there if I were a lesser Healer, but you know I am not."
Albus let out a deep sigh, knowing that he couldn't keep his feelings bottled up for much longer.
"Sometimes I wish you were," he said, his voice heavy with emotion. "I'm angry, Don, beyond angry. I want to find the scum who did that to my boy, but I know I can't. I'm also frustrated at myself that I never saw anything and I refused to let Harry stay here for the summer."
The healer listened patiently, his expression sympathetic. "Thank you for telling me Albus," he said softly. "You know that everything will be okay though, and Harry will heal, right?"
Albus nodded, but his eyes betrayed his inner turmoil. "Yes, I know Don and thank you. I just need to blame myself some more, and then I will be fine."
Don gave him a small smile, his eyes conveying both understanding and compassion. "I should go and give Severus that potion now. He should be more than ready for it."
Minerva, who had been silently observing the exchange, got up as well. "I should be getting going as well. Albus, will you accompany me?"
Albus nodded, grateful for the opportunity to take his mind off his troubles for a while. "Thank you again, Don, for everything," he said as he followed Minerva out of the room.
Don silently made his way down the hallway, his footsteps barely audible on the stone floor. He reached Severus's room and slipped inside, his eyes adjusting to the dim light. The room was sparsely furnished, and the only sound was the gentle breathing of the man lying on the bed. Don sat down beside him and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, stirring him from his slumber.
"Severus," he whispered softly, "it's time for your potion." He helped the man sit up, his touch gentle yet firm, and held the vial to his lips, ensuring he drank every last drop.
"Good, now try to sleep a bit more," Don said, his voice soothing. "I'll be sleeping out on the couch in case Harry has any more nightmares. You need to rest so you can heal."
Severus nodded drowsily, too exhausted to argue with Don's orders. The Healer gently lowered him back onto the bed, tucking the blankets around him before quietly slipping out of the room.
As Don made his way to the living room, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The events of the past few days had taken their toll on him, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right.
He transfigured the couch into a comfortable bed and changed his clothes into a pair of soft pajamas. Don sank down onto the bed with a heavy sigh, he had a feeling it was going to be a restless night.
Author's Chapter Notes:
Thank you for all the lovely reviews! :) I'm not that good about replying sorry about that!
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