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mini_fest2012-12-15 09:35 pm
mini_fest_mod) wrote in mini_fest2012-12-15 09:35 pm
Entry tags:
FIC: Mistletoe Mayhem [Severus/Harry]
Title: Mistletoe Mayhem
Author/Artist:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
alisanne
Pairing(s): Severus Snape/Harry Potter
Prompt: #85: Harry/Severus - Harry and Severus are the only faculty available to deal with the students who stay at Hogwarts for the Christmas holidays. Chaos ensues.
Word Count/Art Medium: +/- 3100
Rating: R
Contains (Highlight to view): *Narrowly avoided, inadvertent student 3some implied.*
Disclaimer: Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you to my beta, who shall remain nameless for the moment, and to the very patient Minifest mods! Happy Holidays, everyone!
Summary: Severus has never had a happy Christmas, but there’s always a first time for everything.
“Minerva, I must protest--”
Minerva fixed Severus with her sternest glare. “It’s your turn, Severus. You know that we rotate this duty. Don’t even try to get out of it. I’m going to visit my cousin this Christmas no matter what you say.”
Severus sighed. “I’m not trying to get out of it. I am simply saying that perhaps assigning Potter to the same duty may be a bit...shortsighted given our history.”
“The war is over, Severus. He saved your life! You are now colleagues. You simply must let go of this unreasonable enmity towards him.” She sighed. “The board of governors took an unprecedented step in making us co-headmasters, Severus. So far Hogwarts has done well, but we are still under close scrutiny. We must do everything according to the rules, which state, that should any student require a place to stay over the holidays, at least two staff - including a senior member - should be available to supervise.”
Severus scowled. “I’m aware of the rules, Minerva. And I have no...enmity towards Potter.” Quite the opposite, in fact.
“If that’s the case, then you should embrace this opportunity for collaboration.” Minerva smiled. “And when better than over the Christmas holidays?” Standing, she slid a folder across the desk towards him. “These are the students who shall be staying. One Hufflepuff and two Ravenclaws.”
Severus glanced down at the list, relieved to see that it contained no known troublemakers. “Well,” he said, relieved. “They should be manageable at least.”
“Excellent.” Minerva stood. “I’m pleased you think so. Harry has some ideas about ways to entertain them, so you should speak with him about them.”
“Indeed,” Severus said, resolved to do no such thing.
“And, Severus? Try to have a happy Christmas.”
After she’d left, Severus sat back in his chair and sighed. A happy Christmas? When has that ever happened?
Potter did have ideas. Ideas which he really wanted to discuss. Severus, who tried to avoid Potter for the most part, found it increasingly difficult to do so, especially since Minerva seemed determined to throw them together.
Finally, resigned to having to have some contact with a man he could never have, Severus agreed to have dinner with Potter in his quarters.
The day before everyone else left, Severus walked to Gryffindor tower, where Potter’s quarters were located. Steeling himself, Severus arrived about two minutes early for dinner.
Potter was waiting. “Come in,” he said, gesturing.
The space was cheerfully decorated, although, instead of the reds and gold that Severus had expected, it was done in neutral browns and beiges, with splashes of colour scattered around. Clearly it has a woman’s touch. I haven’t seen Ginevra Weasley visiting, but, since Potter’s now a professor and she’s playing professional Quidditch, perhaps she flies or Floos in.
There were no obvious signs that anyone else had been there recently, however, so, relaxing slightly, Severus settled at the small table which was set with a meal for two. There were even candles and wine glasses.
If I didn’t know better, I’d think this was deliberately romantic, Severus thought, surveying the scene. But that’s impossible.
“Thanks for coming,” Potter said, sitting down across from him. “Wine?”
“Indeed.” Severus inclined his head. “As we’re to discuss students, we may well need alcohol.”
Potter laughed. “True enough.”
Once the wine was poured, Potter had chosen an excellent red, an elf appeared carrying soup plates. It turned out to be green pea, Severus’ favourite. When he commented on it, Potter blushed. “I, er, may have asked the elves to bring what you like.”
“I see.” Rather surprised at the thoughtful gesture, Severus finished his soup and, as the dishes were cleared, he said, “So. I understand you have some...ideas about to handle the miscreants, I mean students who are staying over the holidays.”
Potter nodded. “I do. First, I thought we could establish some ground rules. When I stayed here one year, I wandered about aimlessly. What if we provide entertainment--?”
As they talked over beef Wellington, roasted potatoes, and carrots, Severus found Potter’s ideas intriguing and reasonable. “Keeping them occupied with projects may keep them out of trouble, you’re right,” he acknowledged.
Potter smiled. “Not only that, but as we both will need a break, too, Hagrid’s agreed to supervise them as well.”
Severus raised an eyebrow. “Rubeus has a habit of underestimating danger--”
“He’ll be fine. He knows not to bring in any dragons or anything.” Potter paused. “At least I think he does--” He sighed. “I’ll talk to him.”
Holding back a smile, Severus nodded. “Do that. I shall come up with a curriculum that won’t seem like a curriculum.”
“Brilliant.” Potter clapped hands. “Ready for pudding?”
Severus was, especially as it turned out to be his favourite chocolate torte. Although there was one complication. He had to fight to hold back his moan of appreciation when he took his first bite. Despite trying to conceal his almost sensual enjoyment, however, Potter somehow knew.
“Good, isn’t it?” Potter licked his lips. “There are times when I eat this that I almost feel I may need some alone time.” He blushed as Severus raised an eyebrow. “Oh, you may not have wanted to know that. Sorry.”
Looking away, Severus took a sip of his wine in an attempt to ground himself. And to try to not imagine Potter in the throes of passion. He was only marginally successful.
When the pudding plates were cleared, Potter rose. “Um, would you like an after-dinner drink? Brandy, perhaps? Or Firewhisky?”
Tempted as he was, Severus nevertheless knew he shouldn’t. The evening had already felt more like a date than a business meeting. “Actually, I should probably go--”
“Oh.” Surprisingly, Potter looked disappointed. “Of course. Well, it was great having dinner with you.” He smiled. “And I guess we’ll be eating together a lot over the next couple of weeks anyway, so see you tomorrow.”
Merlin, he actually seems pleased about that? Severus cleared his throat. “Indeed we shall. Anyway, good evening, Potter.” Inclining his head, Severus started for the door.
Potter walked with him and when he got there, Severus turned, stepping back involuntarily when he found Potter closer then he’d expected. They were in perfect kissing position.
Eyes unreadable behind his glasses, Potter stared at Severus for along moment. “Goodnight,” he finally said, holding out his hand.
Severus responded automatically, clasping Potter’s in return. The tingle that went up his arm, while pleasant, was wholly unexpected. I have to get out of here. Muttering something, he abruptly released Potter’s hand and turned to leave.
Once out in the hallway he exhaled. Control yourself, Severus. He was just being pleasant. But when he got to his own quarters, he couldn’t help but think back over the evening. At no point had Potter seemed irritated by Severus’ presence; in fact, he’d looked disappointed when Severus had left.
Collapsing into a chair, Severus pursed his lips. They would be the only adults at Hogwarts for a couple of weeks. And something in Potter’s attitude had suggested he wasn’t entirely out of reach. Perhaps a happy Christmas was within reach after all.
Arms crossed, Severus watched the last of the students who were leaving ride through the gates carried by the carriages. The Thestrals seemed spirited as they moved, flapping their wings, their breath gusting in the cold air as they disappeared in the distance.
“It’s awfully quiet, isn’t it?”
Turning his head, Severus saw Potter move up beside him. “Blessedly so, yes.”
Potter’s mouth curved up into a small smile. “I tend to forget how big Hogwarts is until I see it without hundreds of people here.”
“Hogwarts at its best,” Severus murmured, turning away from the door. “Shall we meet with the remaining students?”
Potter nodded. “Lead the way.”
The two Ravenclaws took the news that they would have assignments quite well, as Severus had known they would. The Hufflepuff, a quiet boy named Peter Cooper, didn’t react at all. Severus dismissed him as a potential problem.
No one seemed upset that they would be putting up the holiday decorations, and, leaving them in the Great Hall with mistletoe, garland and Potter supervising, Severus returned to his office to do paperwork. It took longer than usual, however, because Severus kept being distracted by recalling the way Potter had looked over dinner the evening before, his eyes glowing with laughter, his mouth moist with wine...
Growling, Severus pushed aside the rest of his parchments and stood. We are supposed to be overseeing them together, he told himself as he approached the Great Hall. It’s only fair I take my turn. It has nothing to do with wanting to see Potter.
As he entered the Hall, he looked around. Mistletoe was hovering in the air, garland was twining itself over the mantelpiece and the ornaments were being floated onto the Christmas tree. Potter, arms crossed, was watching them. The moment he saw Severus, he smiled. “Everything’s going well, Headmaster. And I think their Charms work is improving.”
“So I see.” Moving towards him, Severus was careful to avoid the mistletoe. “When do you think the decorations will be complete?”
“Another ten minutes, maybe?” Potter looked away from the students. “Why?”
“I--” Severus thought quickly. “I thought we could discuss a change for tomorrow. Madam Pomfrey’s stores are low, so I’ve decided to supervise the students making potion bases.”
Potter nodded. “Oh, yes, that makes sense. And Poppy will appreciate that--” His eyes widened as he stared past Severus, his hand raised. “No, Henrietta! The mistletoe is pre-charmed--”
Severus spun, but it was too late. Henrietta Helton’s eyes went wide and every piece of mistletoe glowed for a moment before there was a soundless explosion of light and mistletoe, and Potter was thrown against Severus.
Cradling Potter against his body, Severus turned, sheltering him from the worst of the mistletoe bits. Potter tucked his face into Severus’ neck and clung.
There was silence and then Severus raised his head. “Are you all right?” he asked Potter.
Potter nodded. “Fine,” he whispered. “Are the students--?”
Looking backward over his shoulder, Severus sighed. “The students appear to be all right.” Helton, covered in mistletoe, was holding Cooper’s hand. As Severus watched, she leaned towards him and they began to snog. “More than, actually.”
Potter, whose arms were still around him, craned to look. “Oh dear.”
“Indeed,” Severus murmured as the other Ravenclaw, a girl named Cynthia Barnes, drifted towards them and wormed her way into the group. When they began a three-way kiss, Severus said, “We should stop them.”
“I know,” Potter agreed. “But somehow it seems more important to do this.” And, reaching up, he grasped Severus’ face and, turning Severus towards him, kissed him.
Moaning, Severus gathered Potter to him, pouring all of his longing, his desire into that kiss. Potter responded by deepening the kiss, his tongue stroking temptingly against Severus’.
It was all Severus could do not to drag Potter to the ground and writhe against him until they both dissolved into a sticky mess, but something in his brain prevented him. Pulling away panting, he growled, “Something’s wrong.”
“It is?” Potter, his lips swollen from kissing, blinked. “You’re right. I just can’t seem to--”
He reached for Severus again, but Severus shook his head. “No.” It felt wrong to be so...happy. “This isn’t right.” Drawing his wand, he swished it, saying, “Finite Incantatem!”
Blinking, he straightened up, his head clear. Potter clung for a moment before he, too, came to himself, releasing Severus and stepping back. “Oh God.”
“Indeed,” Severus ground out, wondering just how much he’d revealed. “Mr Cooper, remove your hand from there immediately!”
It took a few minutes but after reversing the effects of the doubly charmed mistletoe, Severus was able to separate the students and send them out. “Report to Professor Hagrid,” he said. “Detention.”
It appeared, to his relief, that they had been too busy with each other to notice what he and Potter had been doing. Now if only there was a way to make Potter forget-- he thought as, crestfallen, they trooped out.
Clenching his wand, Severus briefly toyed with the idea of Imperiusing Potter.
“That won’t work, I’m afraid.”
Spinning, Severus stared at Potter. “Excuse me?”
“Imperius won’t work on me.” Potter shrugged. “Never has.”
Severus narrowed his eyes and redoubled his shields. “Are you using Legilimency?”
Potter sighed. “I mastered it as part of Auror training, but I would never use it on you or anyone. Not without asking permission.” He smiled ruefully. “I suppose that was partly how I knew law enforcement wasn’t for me, and why I came back to Hogwarts.”
“Partly?” Exhaling, Severus sheathed his wand.
“Yes.” Potter looked away. “The other reason...well, that’s not important now.”
It is to me. Severus coughed. “I’ll summon the elves to take care of this mess.”
“Severus.” Potter looked pale but resolute. “Just so you know, I don’t regret what we did. The accident didn’t change how I feel about you. My only regret is that it took so long for us to snog.” Turning, Potter started for the door.
Severus’ eyes widened. “Wait!”
Keeping his back turned, Potter said, “Why?”
“What do you mean you don’t regret what we did?” Moving slowly towards Potter, Severus continued, “You can’t possibly...want me.”
“Why not?” Eyes flashing, Potter turned to face him. “I’ve wanted you for ages. You’re the reason I came back, did you know that? But of course you never noticed me. And why would you? You’re Severus Snape, you’re brilliant, and I’m just--”
“--Harry Potter,” Severus said, clasping Potter’s arm and drawing him close. “Gorgeous hero, courageous warrior, the man who saved our world.”
Potter blinked up at him. “You think I’m gorgeous?”
“I’ve eyes,” Severus whispered. “Of course I do.”
Potter’s lips parted. “Then when we kissed--?”
“I would never have presumed without the...mistletoe’s assistance,” Severus admitted. “But I have no regrets either.”
A huge smile crossed Potter’s face. “Then you won’t mind if I do this, then,” he said softly, reaching up and wrapping his arms around Severus’ neck.
“The only thing I’ll mind is if you stop,” Severus said.
Just as their lips were about to meet, there were multiple pops. Raising his head, Severus saw that the house-elves had arrived to clean. Glaring at them, he opened his mouth to order them out when Potter whispered, “Maybe we could go someplace more...private.”
Severus smirked. “Indeed.” Gathering Potter to him, he said, “I want this place spotless. And no mistletoe!” A moment later, they were gone.
“Mmmm,” Harry purred, sounding like a contented cat as he lay across Severus’ chest. “Now I feel bad that the kids got detention.”
Severus, whose hands hand been caressing Harry’s bum, raised an eyebrow. “And why is that?”
Harry raised his head. “Well, but for that accident, we’d probably still be lusting after each other from afar.”
Severus smirked. “I think we would have figured it out eventually.” His finger began drifting towards Harry’s entrance. “And children always deserve detention.”
“I feel as if I should...argue on their behalf,” Harry gasped as Severus slipped the tip of his finer inside him. “But what you’re doing is...ohh...too distracting.”
“Not distracting enough,” Severus murmured, rolling Harry beneath him and positioning his legs over his shoulders. “You’re still speaking after all.”
Arching up against him, Harry kissed him and for several moments there were no words, just gasps and moans. Harry’s body, already slick from their previous shag, seemed to welcome him as he thrust deep.
Their first time had been frantic, desperate, brilliant. During their second, however, Severus took his time, moving slowly, savouring Harry’s every gasp and sigh, taking note of his body’s every reaction.
Harry, too, seemed to be drinking Severus in, moving his hands everywhere as if trying to commit Severus to memory. They hadn’t discussed a future, but Harry’s every action conveyed care and commitment, and Severus wasn’t about to let him go, so, releasing any anxiety, Severus bent to his task, to give Harry pleasure.
They moved together in tandem until Severus couldn’t maintain his rhythm. With a shudder, he came hard, spilling himself inside Harry with a deep groan. Harry trembled in his arms, coming a few moments later, his warm come spreading between them.
Panting for breath, they both curled together, Harry carding his fingers through Severus’ hair as they recovered. “I wonder if Hagrid would mind babysitting for the entire holiday?” he whispered, tucking his face into Severus’ neck.
Unable to help it, Severus laughed. “If I didn’t think he’d somehow manage to expose them to far too many exotic animals I would consider it.”
As if his words had triggered it, there was an explosion outside the window. Harry’s eyes, which had been closing, popped open. “Oh hell. What was that?”
Severus groaned. “That is the reason we can’t spend this holiday in bed, I’m afraid.” Wandlessly Summoning their clothes, he cast a Cleaning Charm over them both before handing Harry his clothes. “Hopefully you’ll return here periodically to spend some time, however.”
Harry smiled, reaching up to kiss him, slow and deep. “Just try to stop me.”
There was another explosion which spurred them to dress efficiently. Despite making it outside in mere minutes, though, it was just in time to see Cooper screaming as he was carried away by a hippogriff while Helton, Barnes, and Hagrid watched helplessly, Hagrid gesticulating wildly.
“This is going to be some Christmas holiday,” Harry sighed.
Severus took it all in in a glance. “Indeed. I’ll get Cooper, you deal with Hagrid’s hut.”
Harry blinked. “What’s wrong with Hagrid’s...Bloody hell, it’s on fire!”
As he took off flying after the hippogriff, Severus found himself grinning. Despite the chaos, it was still shaping up to be his best Christmas yet. Although perhaps not my most relaxing. Somehow, however, Severus thought he could live with that.
Author/Artist:
alisannePairing(s): Severus Snape/Harry Potter
Prompt: #85: Harry/Severus - Harry and Severus are the only faculty available to deal with the students who stay at Hogwarts for the Christmas holidays. Chaos ensues.
Word Count/Art Medium: +/- 3100
Rating: R
Contains (Highlight to view): *Narrowly avoided, inadvertent student 3some implied.*
Disclaimer: Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you to my beta, who shall remain nameless for the moment, and to the very patient Minifest mods! Happy Holidays, everyone!
Summary: Severus has never had a happy Christmas, but there’s always a first time for everything.
“Minerva, I must protest--”
Minerva fixed Severus with her sternest glare. “It’s your turn, Severus. You know that we rotate this duty. Don’t even try to get out of it. I’m going to visit my cousin this Christmas no matter what you say.”
Severus sighed. “I’m not trying to get out of it. I am simply saying that perhaps assigning Potter to the same duty may be a bit...shortsighted given our history.”
“The war is over, Severus. He saved your life! You are now colleagues. You simply must let go of this unreasonable enmity towards him.” She sighed. “The board of governors took an unprecedented step in making us co-headmasters, Severus. So far Hogwarts has done well, but we are still under close scrutiny. We must do everything according to the rules, which state, that should any student require a place to stay over the holidays, at least two staff - including a senior member - should be available to supervise.”
Severus scowled. “I’m aware of the rules, Minerva. And I have no...enmity towards Potter.” Quite the opposite, in fact.
“If that’s the case, then you should embrace this opportunity for collaboration.” Minerva smiled. “And when better than over the Christmas holidays?” Standing, she slid a folder across the desk towards him. “These are the students who shall be staying. One Hufflepuff and two Ravenclaws.”
Severus glanced down at the list, relieved to see that it contained no known troublemakers. “Well,” he said, relieved. “They should be manageable at least.”
“Excellent.” Minerva stood. “I’m pleased you think so. Harry has some ideas about ways to entertain them, so you should speak with him about them.”
“Indeed,” Severus said, resolved to do no such thing.
“And, Severus? Try to have a happy Christmas.”
After she’d left, Severus sat back in his chair and sighed. A happy Christmas? When has that ever happened?
Potter did have ideas. Ideas which he really wanted to discuss. Severus, who tried to avoid Potter for the most part, found it increasingly difficult to do so, especially since Minerva seemed determined to throw them together.
Finally, resigned to having to have some contact with a man he could never have, Severus agreed to have dinner with Potter in his quarters.
The day before everyone else left, Severus walked to Gryffindor tower, where Potter’s quarters were located. Steeling himself, Severus arrived about two minutes early for dinner.
Potter was waiting. “Come in,” he said, gesturing.
The space was cheerfully decorated, although, instead of the reds and gold that Severus had expected, it was done in neutral browns and beiges, with splashes of colour scattered around. Clearly it has a woman’s touch. I haven’t seen Ginevra Weasley visiting, but, since Potter’s now a professor and she’s playing professional Quidditch, perhaps she flies or Floos in.
There were no obvious signs that anyone else had been there recently, however, so, relaxing slightly, Severus settled at the small table which was set with a meal for two. There were even candles and wine glasses.
If I didn’t know better, I’d think this was deliberately romantic, Severus thought, surveying the scene. But that’s impossible.
“Thanks for coming,” Potter said, sitting down across from him. “Wine?”
“Indeed.” Severus inclined his head. “As we’re to discuss students, we may well need alcohol.”
Potter laughed. “True enough.”
Once the wine was poured, Potter had chosen an excellent red, an elf appeared carrying soup plates. It turned out to be green pea, Severus’ favourite. When he commented on it, Potter blushed. “I, er, may have asked the elves to bring what you like.”
“I see.” Rather surprised at the thoughtful gesture, Severus finished his soup and, as the dishes were cleared, he said, “So. I understand you have some...ideas about to handle the miscreants, I mean students who are staying over the holidays.”
Potter nodded. “I do. First, I thought we could establish some ground rules. When I stayed here one year, I wandered about aimlessly. What if we provide entertainment--?”
As they talked over beef Wellington, roasted potatoes, and carrots, Severus found Potter’s ideas intriguing and reasonable. “Keeping them occupied with projects may keep them out of trouble, you’re right,” he acknowledged.
Potter smiled. “Not only that, but as we both will need a break, too, Hagrid’s agreed to supervise them as well.”
Severus raised an eyebrow. “Rubeus has a habit of underestimating danger--”
“He’ll be fine. He knows not to bring in any dragons or anything.” Potter paused. “At least I think he does--” He sighed. “I’ll talk to him.”
Holding back a smile, Severus nodded. “Do that. I shall come up with a curriculum that won’t seem like a curriculum.”
“Brilliant.” Potter clapped hands. “Ready for pudding?”
Severus was, especially as it turned out to be his favourite chocolate torte. Although there was one complication. He had to fight to hold back his moan of appreciation when he took his first bite. Despite trying to conceal his almost sensual enjoyment, however, Potter somehow knew.
“Good, isn’t it?” Potter licked his lips. “There are times when I eat this that I almost feel I may need some alone time.” He blushed as Severus raised an eyebrow. “Oh, you may not have wanted to know that. Sorry.”
Looking away, Severus took a sip of his wine in an attempt to ground himself. And to try to not imagine Potter in the throes of passion. He was only marginally successful.
When the pudding plates were cleared, Potter rose. “Um, would you like an after-dinner drink? Brandy, perhaps? Or Firewhisky?”
Tempted as he was, Severus nevertheless knew he shouldn’t. The evening had already felt more like a date than a business meeting. “Actually, I should probably go--”
“Oh.” Surprisingly, Potter looked disappointed. “Of course. Well, it was great having dinner with you.” He smiled. “And I guess we’ll be eating together a lot over the next couple of weeks anyway, so see you tomorrow.”
Merlin, he actually seems pleased about that? Severus cleared his throat. “Indeed we shall. Anyway, good evening, Potter.” Inclining his head, Severus started for the door.
Potter walked with him and when he got there, Severus turned, stepping back involuntarily when he found Potter closer then he’d expected. They were in perfect kissing position.
Eyes unreadable behind his glasses, Potter stared at Severus for along moment. “Goodnight,” he finally said, holding out his hand.
Severus responded automatically, clasping Potter’s in return. The tingle that went up his arm, while pleasant, was wholly unexpected. I have to get out of here. Muttering something, he abruptly released Potter’s hand and turned to leave.
Once out in the hallway he exhaled. Control yourself, Severus. He was just being pleasant. But when he got to his own quarters, he couldn’t help but think back over the evening. At no point had Potter seemed irritated by Severus’ presence; in fact, he’d looked disappointed when Severus had left.
Collapsing into a chair, Severus pursed his lips. They would be the only adults at Hogwarts for a couple of weeks. And something in Potter’s attitude had suggested he wasn’t entirely out of reach. Perhaps a happy Christmas was within reach after all.
Arms crossed, Severus watched the last of the students who were leaving ride through the gates carried by the carriages. The Thestrals seemed spirited as they moved, flapping their wings, their breath gusting in the cold air as they disappeared in the distance.
“It’s awfully quiet, isn’t it?”
Turning his head, Severus saw Potter move up beside him. “Blessedly so, yes.”
Potter’s mouth curved up into a small smile. “I tend to forget how big Hogwarts is until I see it without hundreds of people here.”
“Hogwarts at its best,” Severus murmured, turning away from the door. “Shall we meet with the remaining students?”
Potter nodded. “Lead the way.”
The two Ravenclaws took the news that they would have assignments quite well, as Severus had known they would. The Hufflepuff, a quiet boy named Peter Cooper, didn’t react at all. Severus dismissed him as a potential problem.
No one seemed upset that they would be putting up the holiday decorations, and, leaving them in the Great Hall with mistletoe, garland and Potter supervising, Severus returned to his office to do paperwork. It took longer than usual, however, because Severus kept being distracted by recalling the way Potter had looked over dinner the evening before, his eyes glowing with laughter, his mouth moist with wine...
Growling, Severus pushed aside the rest of his parchments and stood. We are supposed to be overseeing them together, he told himself as he approached the Great Hall. It’s only fair I take my turn. It has nothing to do with wanting to see Potter.
As he entered the Hall, he looked around. Mistletoe was hovering in the air, garland was twining itself over the mantelpiece and the ornaments were being floated onto the Christmas tree. Potter, arms crossed, was watching them. The moment he saw Severus, he smiled. “Everything’s going well, Headmaster. And I think their Charms work is improving.”
“So I see.” Moving towards him, Severus was careful to avoid the mistletoe. “When do you think the decorations will be complete?”
“Another ten minutes, maybe?” Potter looked away from the students. “Why?”
“I--” Severus thought quickly. “I thought we could discuss a change for tomorrow. Madam Pomfrey’s stores are low, so I’ve decided to supervise the students making potion bases.”
Potter nodded. “Oh, yes, that makes sense. And Poppy will appreciate that--” His eyes widened as he stared past Severus, his hand raised. “No, Henrietta! The mistletoe is pre-charmed--”
Severus spun, but it was too late. Henrietta Helton’s eyes went wide and every piece of mistletoe glowed for a moment before there was a soundless explosion of light and mistletoe, and Potter was thrown against Severus.
Cradling Potter against his body, Severus turned, sheltering him from the worst of the mistletoe bits. Potter tucked his face into Severus’ neck and clung.
There was silence and then Severus raised his head. “Are you all right?” he asked Potter.
Potter nodded. “Fine,” he whispered. “Are the students--?”
Looking backward over his shoulder, Severus sighed. “The students appear to be all right.” Helton, covered in mistletoe, was holding Cooper’s hand. As Severus watched, she leaned towards him and they began to snog. “More than, actually.”
Potter, whose arms were still around him, craned to look. “Oh dear.”
“Indeed,” Severus murmured as the other Ravenclaw, a girl named Cynthia Barnes, drifted towards them and wormed her way into the group. When they began a three-way kiss, Severus said, “We should stop them.”
“I know,” Potter agreed. “But somehow it seems more important to do this.” And, reaching up, he grasped Severus’ face and, turning Severus towards him, kissed him.
Moaning, Severus gathered Potter to him, pouring all of his longing, his desire into that kiss. Potter responded by deepening the kiss, his tongue stroking temptingly against Severus’.
It was all Severus could do not to drag Potter to the ground and writhe against him until they both dissolved into a sticky mess, but something in his brain prevented him. Pulling away panting, he growled, “Something’s wrong.”
“It is?” Potter, his lips swollen from kissing, blinked. “You’re right. I just can’t seem to--”
He reached for Severus again, but Severus shook his head. “No.” It felt wrong to be so...happy. “This isn’t right.” Drawing his wand, he swished it, saying, “Finite Incantatem!”
Blinking, he straightened up, his head clear. Potter clung for a moment before he, too, came to himself, releasing Severus and stepping back. “Oh God.”
“Indeed,” Severus ground out, wondering just how much he’d revealed. “Mr Cooper, remove your hand from there immediately!”
It took a few minutes but after reversing the effects of the doubly charmed mistletoe, Severus was able to separate the students and send them out. “Report to Professor Hagrid,” he said. “Detention.”
It appeared, to his relief, that they had been too busy with each other to notice what he and Potter had been doing. Now if only there was a way to make Potter forget-- he thought as, crestfallen, they trooped out.
Clenching his wand, Severus briefly toyed with the idea of Imperiusing Potter.
“That won’t work, I’m afraid.”
Spinning, Severus stared at Potter. “Excuse me?”
“Imperius won’t work on me.” Potter shrugged. “Never has.”
Severus narrowed his eyes and redoubled his shields. “Are you using Legilimency?”
Potter sighed. “I mastered it as part of Auror training, but I would never use it on you or anyone. Not without asking permission.” He smiled ruefully. “I suppose that was partly how I knew law enforcement wasn’t for me, and why I came back to Hogwarts.”
“Partly?” Exhaling, Severus sheathed his wand.
“Yes.” Potter looked away. “The other reason...well, that’s not important now.”
It is to me. Severus coughed. “I’ll summon the elves to take care of this mess.”
“Severus.” Potter looked pale but resolute. “Just so you know, I don’t regret what we did. The accident didn’t change how I feel about you. My only regret is that it took so long for us to snog.” Turning, Potter started for the door.
Severus’ eyes widened. “Wait!”
Keeping his back turned, Potter said, “Why?”
“What do you mean you don’t regret what we did?” Moving slowly towards Potter, Severus continued, “You can’t possibly...want me.”
“Why not?” Eyes flashing, Potter turned to face him. “I’ve wanted you for ages. You’re the reason I came back, did you know that? But of course you never noticed me. And why would you? You’re Severus Snape, you’re brilliant, and I’m just--”
“--Harry Potter,” Severus said, clasping Potter’s arm and drawing him close. “Gorgeous hero, courageous warrior, the man who saved our world.”
Potter blinked up at him. “You think I’m gorgeous?”
“I’ve eyes,” Severus whispered. “Of course I do.”
Potter’s lips parted. “Then when we kissed--?”
“I would never have presumed without the...mistletoe’s assistance,” Severus admitted. “But I have no regrets either.”
A huge smile crossed Potter’s face. “Then you won’t mind if I do this, then,” he said softly, reaching up and wrapping his arms around Severus’ neck.
“The only thing I’ll mind is if you stop,” Severus said.
Just as their lips were about to meet, there were multiple pops. Raising his head, Severus saw that the house-elves had arrived to clean. Glaring at them, he opened his mouth to order them out when Potter whispered, “Maybe we could go someplace more...private.”
Severus smirked. “Indeed.” Gathering Potter to him, he said, “I want this place spotless. And no mistletoe!” A moment later, they were gone.
“Mmmm,” Harry purred, sounding like a contented cat as he lay across Severus’ chest. “Now I feel bad that the kids got detention.”
Severus, whose hands hand been caressing Harry’s bum, raised an eyebrow. “And why is that?”
Harry raised his head. “Well, but for that accident, we’d probably still be lusting after each other from afar.”
Severus smirked. “I think we would have figured it out eventually.” His finger began drifting towards Harry’s entrance. “And children always deserve detention.”
“I feel as if I should...argue on their behalf,” Harry gasped as Severus slipped the tip of his finer inside him. “But what you’re doing is...ohh...too distracting.”
“Not distracting enough,” Severus murmured, rolling Harry beneath him and positioning his legs over his shoulders. “You’re still speaking after all.”
Arching up against him, Harry kissed him and for several moments there were no words, just gasps and moans. Harry’s body, already slick from their previous shag, seemed to welcome him as he thrust deep.
Their first time had been frantic, desperate, brilliant. During their second, however, Severus took his time, moving slowly, savouring Harry’s every gasp and sigh, taking note of his body’s every reaction.
Harry, too, seemed to be drinking Severus in, moving his hands everywhere as if trying to commit Severus to memory. They hadn’t discussed a future, but Harry’s every action conveyed care and commitment, and Severus wasn’t about to let him go, so, releasing any anxiety, Severus bent to his task, to give Harry pleasure.
They moved together in tandem until Severus couldn’t maintain his rhythm. With a shudder, he came hard, spilling himself inside Harry with a deep groan. Harry trembled in his arms, coming a few moments later, his warm come spreading between them.
Panting for breath, they both curled together, Harry carding his fingers through Severus’ hair as they recovered. “I wonder if Hagrid would mind babysitting for the entire holiday?” he whispered, tucking his face into Severus’ neck.
Unable to help it, Severus laughed. “If I didn’t think he’d somehow manage to expose them to far too many exotic animals I would consider it.”
As if his words had triggered it, there was an explosion outside the window. Harry’s eyes, which had been closing, popped open. “Oh hell. What was that?”
Severus groaned. “That is the reason we can’t spend this holiday in bed, I’m afraid.” Wandlessly Summoning their clothes, he cast a Cleaning Charm over them both before handing Harry his clothes. “Hopefully you’ll return here periodically to spend some time, however.”
Harry smiled, reaching up to kiss him, slow and deep. “Just try to stop me.”
There was another explosion which spurred them to dress efficiently. Despite making it outside in mere minutes, though, it was just in time to see Cooper screaming as he was carried away by a hippogriff while Helton, Barnes, and Hagrid watched helplessly, Hagrid gesticulating wildly.
“This is going to be some Christmas holiday,” Harry sighed.
Severus took it all in in a glance. “Indeed. I’ll get Cooper, you deal with Hagrid’s hut.”
Harry blinked. “What’s wrong with Hagrid’s...Bloody hell, it’s on fire!”
As he took off flying after the hippogriff, Severus found himself grinning. Despite the chaos, it was still shaping up to be his best Christmas yet. Although perhaps not my most relaxing. Somehow, however, Severus thought he could live with that.