A Truce Between Enemies

James wondered really if there would be an end to this war, his days became longer and filled with a violence he never pictured he would live in. Classmates he had grown up with, joked with, now either dead or death eaters. His faith of winning were diminished almost everyday, every step closer to completing his auror training just cemented the heart-wrenching feeling that his job was needed now more than ever. 

He let out a tired sigh as he apparated outside of Potter Manor, reaching for the knob he walked inside and sighed at the aroma of dinner; when he had first offered her to move in with him. He had made it abundantly clear he wasn’t looking for her to fill in the spot of house wife. Lily had always been independent, forcing her into the confinement of a home straight out of Hogwarts would be cruel; had he proposed with the prospect of making her his wife, yes – but she wasn’t obligated to those old-fashion standards. 

Her words, however were; ‘Auror training is a strenuous job James, once you have completed your training, I’ll pick up my Charms Mastery, besides; playing house sounds fun’, it was, especially certain house chores he thought as his neck heated up, his mind wondering towards private moments. 

“It smells amazing” he groaned, plopping his suitcase onto the table; it was a day filled with paperwork, a tedious but apparently according to Moody very necessary. 
Lily turned to him a smile gracing her face, “Good, it’s a new recipe; thought I change it up a bit” she placed a quick peck on his lips before turning back towards the stove. 

James only rolled his eyes, “You know the elves have an extensive array of culinary knowledge, you could just ask them” he commented as he leaned into the cooler to grab a cold beerbutter, at Lily’s grunt he just chuckled and sat down on the table, “Severus stepped out? He typically keeps you company whilst you cook” he asked, his eyes darting towards the hallway. 

There was something on how Lily’s body tensed, or how she remained with her back towards him as she pressed potatoes through a mesh strainer. James’s drink was forgotten as he squared his shoulders and leaned forward, “Lily?” he pressed, “Where is Severus?” 

Her shoulders slumped and she turned around a forlorn look on her face, “He left” she answered. 

James face feel, blinking repeatedly, “Left where, and for how long?” his tone was hard. 

Lily made a noise with her mouth before she sighed and leaned against the counter, “He moved out James, indefinitely.” She explained. 

“What? No, he-he would have said something yesterday” James stuttered, “He never” he stopped, his eyes looking at Lily wide and frazzled, “We were good right? I-I was good?” 

The question broke her heart and she quickly walked over to him kneeling beside his chair and placing a hand on his knee, “Of course you were and that isn’t why he left, he’s healed – we both knew he wouldn’t stay for long” she rubbed his thigh. 

James blinked, “Yea, I just” he rubbed his face, “I just thought he would stay, you know. He opened up a bit, seemed to get along well with Remus, he was improving with Sirius. I’d hoped—” he trailed off, his heart hurt; Severus had crept so quickly and suddenly into his heart the sudden absence of the Slytherin startled him. 

“I know” Lily sighed, “I did too, but he said he’ll visit” she offered. 

James grunted leaning back, his day had gone from bad to worse; “Did he say where he was going?” he asked after a few minutes of silence. 

“Lucius offered him a room” she answered, seeing her fiancé’s irritated look she continued quickly, “Remember, Severus is starting his potions mastery in a week or so, Lucius has a state-of-the-art potions lab” she explained. 

“I could have built him a potions lab” the Gryffindor grumbled. 

Lily snickered at his antics, “Oh he knows” she responded at his affronted look she shrugged, “Despite the short time frame to this truce, it affected him – in ways he didn’t see coming. That’s why he didn’t tell me about leaving until this morning, he knew you’d convince him to stay” she gave him a knowing look. 

“He should have,” he grunted. 

Lily frowned, “James, your parents will be back eventually and they will most likely want their house back. Remus and Sirius are planning on leaving to Grimmauld Palace soon after that too, we also have a wedding to plan and a house to look for. He knew and doesn’t want to be a burden” she said, “and before you say he isn’t I know, but he has always been independent.” She whispered turning to look into the oven briefly and turning back. 

“He should have said goodbye” James pressed his eyes tight as he took a swig of his juice. 

Lily gave him an amused smile, “I’d told him you’ll give him your two cents on that during his next visit” she said as she placed milk and cream into a pot. 
“Which will be when?” 

A smirk passed the woman’s face, “He agreed he’ll come by every once in a while for tea” she replied, at James disgruntled moan she let out a chortle in amusement, “He’ll try to visit more especially if we invite him for dinner or so but he’ll be busy” she replied. 

“Busy” James growled, “He has another thing coming if he thinks I won’t visit him at Malfoys, or pull him by his ear if he starts to overwork himself” he vowed. 

Lily only hummed as she turned back towards the stove, rolling her eyes at James grumbled musing behind her. 

A FEW WEEKS LATER…

Severus lost his footing slightly as he landed just outside of Potter Manor, kicking the stone that jabbed at the bottom of his shoe with a scowl. Fixing his robes, he walked towards the house and paused for a few seconds; he had to be honest with himself, he tried to avoid coming back for a bit. Just enough to gather his thoughts, to wrap his mind around the last few days, he wrote to his mother. Despite his healed wounds, his heart remained wounded as pathetically as it sounded. 

Lucius had found him, the first night in his manor; arguing silently - should he return to the house that he only knew abuse and pain, just because his mother remained – or finally cut ties, at least with his father. 

The decision no matter how clear it was to many others, was bitter; just like it had been returning to Potter Manor. Lily had owled him a week after he had left, her first letter remained light; excited for the beginning of his Potion Mastery, questioned how his new living arrangements were with Lucius and invited him to tea. He had declined the first offer, he still had some unpacking and wanted to overlook the lesson plans; he wouldn’t be himself if he weren’t prepared. 

The next few letters changed in tone, the second one a bit worried; the third a bit annoyed and lastly the most recent one had been the all-known anger from Lily Evans mixed with her usual tone of manipulation. That is the reason as to why he found himself now, 2 and a half weeks later, rubbing the side of his neck as he glanced at the manor. 

It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Potter, he did – begrudgingly – but that was another discussion. However, he wouldn’t be a Slytherin if he didn’t conduct his own experiment, he wanted to see Potter’s reaction after some days of absence, wondered if his presence while healing had somewhat influenced his truce, he had been badly bruised – there would have been no sense in kicking him while down – so, the sudden brotherly affection could have easily been adrenaline from helping him escape his father. 

It’s what he tried to convince himself. 

Shaking his head, he walked towards the door and knocked softly, waiting a bit before the door opened and James stood on the other side a look of pure annoyance on his features, “You lived with us for almost 2 months, why are you knocking?” 

Severus blinked then gave the man a scowl, “Common manners Potter, something I’m sure your parents forgot to teach” he drawled as he walked right past him. 

James snickered as he closed the door his free hand circling around Severus wrist stopping him just before he walked fully past him and pulled him into a welcoming hug. He released the younger male quickly, feeling the tense shoulders and the sharp intake of breath and left him stunned in the foyer that connected the entrance of
the home to a seating/living area. 

After regaining his composer, Severus grunted at the slight flush that formed on his cheeks and followed behind them a frown on his lips, “Severus you made it!” Lily exclaimed from the kitchen. 

“Of course,” his eyes landed on her and they softened a small smile on his lips, “It’s good seeing you Lily” he whispered as he pulled her into a hug, “What smells so great? Potter, turned you into a house wife I see” he teased. 

“Hush” she swatted his arm while James grunted from his bent over position as he rummaged through the fridge pulling a chilled beerbutter and motioning it towards him. 

Severus gave him a nod as he settled onto the chair. 

“The food was delicious Lily, Lucius sure as hell doesn’t cook like this” he snickered, he noticed across from him James eyes harden at the comment and so he quickly continued the conversation “So, I heard the graduation is around the corner?” he prodded. 

Something flashed in James’ hazel eyes before it disappeared until he leaned forward with a smile, “This Sunday they are holding the ceremony, in a few days I’ll be Auror James” he said with a wide grin, “I’d like you to be there” he muttered. 

Severus tensed his eyes tightening at the invitation and he gave James a terse grimaced smile, “That’d be a mistake” he muttered coolly, “Besides, Sunday I’d be at orientation; I have to shadow a Potion’s Master in their lab all day” it was a partial truth, it would be done before noon however he wouldn’t feel comfortable to attend the ceremony and the lie took away the glint of disappointment in James eyes. 

Yet he avoided making eye contact with James that entire night, holding light conversation with Lily over his excitement of being a Potions Master, the night progressed easily; something Severus was surprised that they had slipped right back into. He was being stupid, for the days he had stayed their James, Sirius and later Remus had been nothing but pleasant, friendly and caring. That probably was the main reason, something he wasn’t used to. 

He had only known his mothers love, and then Lily’s – Lucius’ attention was something he hadn’t expected, mostly because Slytherins were loyal to their house but mainly remained emotionless and cold towards each other. Well, that was until he had met Lucius, despite being a month older this cold blond slender child took one look at Severus and just smirked. 

Severus had ignored his classmate; he had been roomed with three other ones that to be fairly honest wouldn’t had made any difference if he were alone or not; they went their separate ways every morning and at night they grunted two or three words at each other and then silence. Severus remembered that silence as he stared up at the ceiling until his intrusive thoughts slowly lulled him to sleep. 

Lucius friendship happened slowly, mostly unwilling from his side but Severus had always considered himself lonely; so, he hadn’t taken kindly to Lucius constant talkative presence. He would sit beside him during meals, at first quietly but then would comment on assignments, complain mostly on essays and just be a persistent thorn. 

It didn’t matter how many times Severus ignored him, snapped at him or even just bluntly told him to leave; the annoying smirk remained on his lips and he stayed, by the time first year ended Lucius presence became welcomed, not that he would admit it to the rich aristocrat. It was a friendship he was grateful to this day. 

“Severus?” Lily’s worried tone brought him back as he stood at the opened door, “You alright?” she asked, “You spaced out of it for a few seconds” 

He gave her a semi-tired grin, “I’m probably exhausted,” he admitted as he said those words his eyes darted behind her and his frozen expression relaxed some, “Don’t tell James, would you?” he asked. 

She crossed her arms with a scowl, “You haven’t even started Severus?” she admonished, “You need your rest, the number of fumes you will be ingesting—” she stopped as her ears picked up a faint ring and not two seconds later James’s voice yelled from the room. 

“Lily, that thing you call a phone is making noise” both Severus and Lily snickered at the confusion in his tone. 

“Alright, alright” she huffed then placed a kiss on Severus’ cheek, “I’ll send James out with your food, what’s taking him so long anyways?” she muttered to herself as she turned and left. 

Severus let out a low chuckle and shook his head, before her low musings of Potter irritated him; he had always wondered what Lily, sweet caring Lily saw in someone the likes of James Potter but now he grudgingly – had to admit there was some good qualities. 

The footsteps coming his way made him hide a yawn behind his hand blinking away the clear exhaustion in his eyes but he was sure James noticed it as his voice was a bit tight as he handed him two big bags. “James, did you intend to feed a village?” he rose an eyebrow. 

James clicked his tongue but persisted for Severus to grab the bags, “Lily freezes most of our dinners, says she doesn’t know how to cook for only 2 and always makes enough to feed 5 to 6, in her defense Sirius eats enough for a pack of wolves and Remus has an appetite near and after the full moon, so” he shrugged, “I packed you at least enough food to last for a few days, maybe a week or 2; I also placed some instructions on how to reheat them” he muttered. 

Severus blinked as his thoughts went back to their last heated discussion, ‘you intend to mother me, Potter?’’ he had asked that many times before and James had replied with his normal sarcasm. 

However, he hadn’t ever seen James be motherly, Lily had beat him to it and surprisingly Remus had been watchful whilst he stayed at the Potters. To find this sudden attention to care; well, it caused a lump on his throat. 

“James” he muttered lowly. 
A hand was raised, “No, you think I don’t pay attention but I do; I heard the comment and I noticed you try to cover it. Lucius is pureblood, just as I am and I can assure you that meals weren’t exactly done on time or at all, we had elves if we were hungry – we called for a snack or food but it was never of good substance not like meals at Hogwarts or Lily’s heaven-sent cooking” he said with a warm smile. 

Severus swallowed again with a quivering smile, “Yea, her mother taught her well” he whispered, “Lucius tries but he’s…” he trailed off with a grimaced shake of his head, “He’s kept a lot at the Ministry and I get forgetful of time” he admitted. 

James grunted, “I gathered, you’ve dropped some weight” he said disapprovingly, but seeing the bristled look on the male’s face, he waved him off, “That’s beside the point, this is me warning you nicely” he gave him a look. 

“Warning?” black eyes widened as they locked with determine hazel. 

James gave him an affirmative nod, “Warning, next time it won’t be an offer of food” he said firmly. 

Severus cleared his throat, “T-that, that won’t be necessary” the vibrato in his tone made it clear he was embarrassed with the sudden turn of conversation. 

“See to it that it isn’t” James said his voice light, eyes bright with a wide smile. 

‘Only Potter would mutter a threat as that, we such carefree attitude’ Severus thought bitterly, he licked his lower lip and gave the man small nod with a smile, “I should get going, Lucius places wards around his Manor after a certain time, tell Black and Lupin I’ll catch them another time” he said as he took a step back. 

James pursed his lips, “You know they wouldn’t mind you calling them Remus and Sirius,” 

Severus tilted his head in acknowledgement and gave him a smirk, “Now, why would I stop the enjoyment I get of seeing the look of frustration on Black’s face” he said with a chuckle, “Remus I understand” he added. 

James scowled, “Goodnight Severus” 

“Goodnight,” a slight pause before Severus turned around a mischievous glint in his black eyes, “Potter” he ended and then disapparated the sounds of his chuckle disappearing into he night at James affronted face. 

“Fucking Slytherins” James grumbled as he closed the door behind him. 

LINE BREAK 

Long pale hands tightly held the wooden spoon as it mixed the bubbly liquid in the caldron, it was a shimmery blue; and Severus always seemed to loose himself in them – almost trance by it. He had always been fascinated by potions. Something about the complexity and its discipline that made him fall in love with the practice, it had first been watching his mother, she had a small lab in their home; something his father hadn’t had knowledge, hidden behind a picture frame. 

When and while his father had worked, that is where they spent their days; Severus would stand on his toes as he watched his mother skillfully prep the ingredients and it was as if she were in a dance, her hands and body moved gracefully as she crafted whatever potion on her list that day. Slowly as the time passed by, he would either help her with the chopping, slicing, gutting, until his mother sat on the other side of the table a small pensive look in her eyes as he completed the potion. 

Pride, he wondered if she would be proud of him now – Pursuing a career he knew she would have wanted for herself. Shaking his head from the intrusive thoughts he picked up the emerald rod and tapped the caldron thrice before mixing the liquid now counter clockwise. 

“Severus?” black eyes looked up to find Lucius standing at the bottom of the stairs. 

“Hmm?” he muttered as a reply, looking back down towards the caldron and letting out a satisfied sigh once it turned to a navy hue. 

He heard steps come closer until he saw a delicate pale hand being placed on the table across from him, a grunt and a tired sigh left the blond Slytherin, “You are cutting it a bit late don’t you think?” 

Severus rolled his eyes but remained stirring, “Late? For what exactly?” he questioned. 

Another sigh, this time frustrated was his response, Severus’ black eye lifted his lips placed into his signature scowl, “Lucius, I’ve told you I need full concentration; could you come out with it?” he droned irritated. 

Grey eyes tightened before they relaxed, “It’s going to be 6, I sure hope the fumes haven’t made you so forgetful” Lucius teased and snickered at the glower he received from his friend, “Severus, its March 18th, Lily and James invited you—” 

Severus eyes widened and they snapped towards the calendar that was hanging near the wooden shelves, lo and behold a red circle was indeed around the 18th, which was also glowing with the hint of magic Lily had charmed it to notify the current date. “Shit” he cursed, then looked down with a frustrated growl as the liquid turned a sudden deep black, “Oh for fucks sake” he hissed tossing the spoon onto the counter, then lifted his wand, “Scourgify” he snarled the remnants of the blotched potion disappearing. 

Lucius bit his lower lip from laughing at the obvious anger in his brothers’ eyes and just cleared his throat fixing his suit, “I’ll wait for you in the living room,” he muttered as he walked out. 

“Whatever” Severus grunted but rubbed his neck and after a few short minutes walked after Lucius and towards his room to change."
 
Godric Hallow was a small village in the West Country of England, it was quaint and only held a handful of occupants all in which were wizards. It was a perfect place for Lily and James, just with their wedding being merely months away, and James’s parents returning back to their home. 

Severus hadn’t realized just how homey and mundane it was until he was a few feet from the small cottage, the smell of fire coming from the chimney and the sounds of laughter and friendly banter ringing in his ear. “No, this, this is a mistake” Severus muttered lowly and turned to leave but Lucius hand circled around his arm turning him back around. 

“Severus, you promised; both of them” he leveled him with a look. 

The black-haired man shook his head as he felt the overwhelming feeling of panic, “I’ll send them a housewarming gift and a heartfelt apology tomorrow” he rushed through thin lips, “But this, Lucius this” he motions towards the gathering group of grinning and warm fellow classmates and almost recoiled back in disgust, “This isn’t us; we don’t mix well with lions—” 

“Why, because we are snakes, or because we mingle with dark arts none of which is illegal” Lucius drawled as he eyed Severus, “You are aware that I don’t fully follow my families pureblooded views, my friendship towards you is a testament to that, your friendship with James is also progression. Are you scared they won’t like you Severus?” he asked raising an eyebrow. 

Severus made a disgruntled noise at the question looking at him with offended eyes, “I don’t get along well with people, I tend to rub off wrong” he growled, “The last thing I want to do is ruin—” 

“Severus! Lucius!” a voice yelled from the house; Lucius head turned towards the voice while Severus’s dropped with a disillusioned moan. 

Taking his friends arm and turning him towards the house he lifted his hand for a wave, “Sirius!” he yelled out as a welcome, “Sorry we are late, I had some business to finish at the ministry” his voice now settled back to normal as they grew closer towards the house. 

Sirius just gave him a smile as he shook hands with him and then turned to Severus who with a small grimace extended his hand to shake as well, Sirius gave it an odd look before taking it and then pulling the man into a hug, “I haven’t seen you in sometime Severus,” he said warmly. 

Severus let out a shaky breath as he hesitantly hugged the man back, as he took a deep breath, he couldn’t help but get a full whiff of the man’s cologne; the sharp traces of sandalwood mixed with the broad undertone of Italian bergamot. He tensed a bit and ended the short embrace his eyes flickering behind Sirius to avoid meeting eyes with Sirius which he knew would be smoldering and cleared his throat. 

“The house is lovely” Lucius voice cut through the awkward silence and Severus shot him a grateful look before he started walking towards the cottage, the two followed behind him and Severus tried to ignore the burning hot sensation he felt at Sirius hand on his lower back. 

“Severus!” Lily exclaimed as she opened the wooden door, “I was just telling James you would come, oh Sirius thank you for showing them the way!” she said warmly, then smiled brightly to Lucius, “Lucius thank you for coming, I’d didn’t think you’d accompany Sev” 

Lucius gave her a small grin but his eyes were tense, despite his reassuring words to Severus, it still felt a bit reluctant participating in this new friendship but, it was better than the road there were already meandering on. They walked through the charming cottage and both Slytherins tensed at the voices of other Gryffindors. 
James was bent over slightly, his face a mask of joyful mirth as he laughed at something Frank Longbottom – a longtime friend from Hogwarts and now also a member Auror for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement – had said, across from Frank sat Alice Longbottom nee Prewett, also a newly appointed Auror. 

“Severus, Lucius” James straightened himself placing his glass cup down and walking over taking Lucius offered hand and pulled him into a quick one warmed hug then pulled Severus into a full embrace, “Thank you both for coming” he said warmly as he released a flushed Severus, Lucius neck appeared just as flushed. 

Frank and Alice both stood at the entrance of the three men and Severus tensed expecting a cautioned look between the couple or a fleeting look of disgust but Alice smiled kindly as did Frank, “Snape, Malfoy, gosh I feel like I’ve known you both from what James talks other than the years we’ve spent at Hogwarts” Frank boasted as he slapped Severus back as a welcome. 

Severus cleared his throat a bit startled and glanced over to James who looked sheepish as he rubbed the back of his neck, “Lily, why don’t you give them a tour of the place, while I check with the elves?” he asked. 
Severus noticed Lily’s face harden a bit at the mention of elves but it relaxed as she turned towards Severus and took his hand, “Sirius keep Frank and Alice company please” she said giving him a wink while Sirius just rolled his eyes as he bumped fist with a smirk and Alice just waved her away as she retook her sit next to the fireplace. 

“The house is truly gorgeous Lily, who told you about Godric Hallow?” Severus as they walked out to the small cozy backyard, it was a small two-story home with two bedroom and one was just meant to become a nursery, something Severus had been opposed just months before but now could wrap his head around a child with Lily’s eyes. 

She smiled as she looked out towards the small well kept lawn, “Dumbledore” she said softly and Severus and Lucius shared a surprised and confused look, “Turns out he used to live a few house’s down during his youth, said it was a very humble and quiet town, lord knows we need that” she said softly her eyes darkening. 

“Everything alright?” he asked confused. 

She sighed, “It feels stupid, buying a house and planning a wedding; there’s a war just brewing and we are over here playing house” she shook her head as she rubbed her face, “Don’t tell James I mentioned it, but we’ve been solicited by Voldemort, he wants us to join his ranks – Alice and Frank have also been harassed” she explained. 

Severus face paled, “What? That make’s no sense, the Dark Lord he’s beliefs—” 

Lily interrupted him with a look, “Yes, his offer was mainly towards James – he would make an exception towards a muggleborn only because I am his future wife; which no doubt is just a play of words” her voice was tight, “we refused of course” she said. 

Severus swallowed, refusing the Dark Lord was dangerous he locked eyes with Lucius and he also shared the same look of trepidation before they looked back to Lily, “You don’t deny the Dark Lord, he has ways..” Severus trailed off lowly. 

“We will be prepared” all three turned at James firm voice as he leaned against the backdoor, he gave Lily an exasperated look and then turned his gaze towards Severus an unreadable look in his eyes, “How would you know his ways Severus?” his tone was calm but it had an underlying hint of anger that Severus easily detected. 

Severus froze as he swallowed, “Word travels” he replied weakly. 

James eyes narrowed and crossed his arms, “Funny, because I don’t see death eaters or Voldemort themselves enjoying a cuppa at Hogsmeade sharing details of their recent raids” his words left through clenched teeth, “Try again” he growled. 

Lily eyes widened briefly and she turned, “I think the chicken’s done, I wouldn’t want to keep Alice and Frank waiting for too long, and besides Sirius’ form of entertainment is has a selective interest” she said and walked towards the house, as she passed James’ he only moved to the side his hazel eyes still locked on Severus who happened to squirm under the intense gaze, Lucius face remain hard but even he looked fazed by the stare. 

“James,” she touched his arm their eyes met and she pleaded through them, then gave the others a shaky smile, “Why don’t you boys help with the table?” she offered. 

Severus nodded as well did Lucius and they moved to follow but as they passed a stiff James his hand went out to firmly grasp Severus arm, he ignored how the younger Slytherin tensed under his hand but maintain a firm stare. 

“Potter” it was Lucius’ voice, his tone a lingered threat; of course, James’ relationship with Severus had just started, Severus and Lucius were as close as he was with Sirius, he understood the tone of protectiveness in his voice and the gleam in his eyes. 

He released the hold on the pale arm but as he did so he raised his hand to stall them from entering, “I’ve lost too many classmates because of this man, good and bad – which doesn’t matter” James face distorted angrily, “because seeing the body of someone you grew up with, it still has its effects” 

Severus throat was dry and he could feel Lucius uneasy posture stiffen, “James” he tried his hand at reassuring but he dropped his eyes when James silenced him with a sharp look. 

“It crosses a line when those in danger are people I love” his voice was thick and Severus blinked surprised as did Lucius, “I’m not stupid, I know your ingredients for potions can come from unsavory places, but it better be the only reason you both are in Knockturn Alley” his voice was even yet Severus bit his lower lip at the determined look in his eyes, while Lucius cleared his throat foretelling how uncomfortable he felt. 

Severus couldn’t speak his throat dry; he heard James’ sigh and then the seriousness disappeared leaving behind his famous crinkly smile, “Alright, well I’m starve” he said clapping his hands together and motioned for them inside. 

The dinner was pleasant and Severus found himself having light conversation with Frank and Remus while Lucius chatted away with Sirius and James. He smiled slightly when he saw Lucius laugh at a joke Sirius said, reminded of the words Lucius had stated before they had entered the home. The friendship had formed so suddenly, Severus at first expected Lucius to persuade him to ignore the Gryffindor’s advances, however when he had left the Potters and ignored the invitations to tea, it was Lucius who had convince him to go. 

His normally reserved friend had once again surprised him, not only accepting this uncertain friendship – but also forming his own. 

“Have you and Cissy determined a date for the wedding?” Sirius asked casually as he took a sip of his wine, he saw his cousin’s fiancé tense slightly at the question before he gave them a frowned, he watched as pale hands lifted the glass of brandy, the same glass he had harboring the entire evening. 

Then let out a sigh, “There is no wedding” 

Sirius blinked surprised as did James, leaning forward he couldn’t help but glance at him sympathetically, “Did Narcissa call it off?” Sirius asked. 

Lucius gave him a scowl, “Of course not, we both just mutually agreed that a large-scale wedding isn’t entirely ideal – we’ll decide soon; no rush” he said softly, “What about you Potter, you and Evan’s decided?” he asked, Sirius noticed the quick change of topic but chose to let it go, noticing the tight grip Lucius had on the glass and how his shoulders remained tense. 

James let out a sigh of his own, “We share the same sentiment; however, we opted for May not sure yet of the date; it depends really” he said with a wave of his hand as he shrugged, he wouldn’t state the full truth only because Dumbledore had specifically stated to keep the invitation list short and the people who knew of the wedding shorter, “A lot is happening, a wedding seems so out of place” he muttered. 

“You both deserve happiness James” Sirius scowled. 

James gave him a look but before he spoke Lucius sent him a snicker, “So interested in our love lives Black, and you; any femme caught your attention?” the blond drawled. 

It was Sirius time to frown but his eyes couldn’t help but flicker towards a certain raven-haired boy who was set to not give him the time of day, he turned back to James and Lucius missing as they shared a knowing look, “Of course” Sirius gave them a fake bright smile, “Now, I can’t guarantee the same women will accompany me to either wedding” he added with a sly grin as he took another sip of the wine.

“No of course not” Lucius and James both recited. 

Lily hugged Severus tightly as they said their goodbyes, “We had such a lovely time! Thank you so much for coming!” she whispered as she placed a kiss on his cheek, “Please don’t take too long to visit again!” she gently scolded him. 

Severus gave her a look, “You know I don’t purposely do so” 

“Even so, promise me at least you’ll come every Thursday” at the beginning of a protest she lifted her hands to silence him, “No excuses, I don’t expect you to stop by and be all day but at least a few minutes for tea and some chit-chat; come now – we both know eventually our lives will become hectic with married life and family” she whispered and Severus eyebrows creased at the slight sadness in her voice and her wide green eyes. 

With a resigned sigh he relented, “Alright, alright, every Thursday” he promised then gave James an exasperated look, “Merlin help you if your kids come out with those green eyes James!”, James wrap his arm around Lily’s waist with a boastful laugh. 

“Oh, I’m sure they’ll have us wrap around their little finger” he chuckled. 

Severus snickered in agreement, “Have a goodnight, I’ll see you—” 

“Tomorrow?” James tested with a crooked grin. 

Severus lips went to a flat line as his eyes unfocused thinking of the day, and then scowled at the bashful couple, “Tomorrow’s Thursday” he rolled his eyes, “I thought I was the Slytherin,” he teased but nodded, “I’ll see you both tomorrow” he agreed as he walked out. 

“You stopping by tomorrow?” Sirius voice joined them as he appeared on the other side of James his grey eyes locking with Severus, Severus swallowed his mouth going dry and just gave him a nod, “Great, I’ll come by then with Remus” he said as he walked out squeezing Severus shoulder, his hand lingering for a brief minute and then it was gone. 
“I should get going” Severus said after a few seconds ignoring the look he received from James and Lily, 

LINE BREAK 

He tossed his items onto the couch as he all but slumped down onto the worn leather, he was thankful his parents had decided to part from the old piece. Not that Lily was all too fond of having it in their home but even she noticed the charm it had, almost like it blended into the small cottage. 

“Long day?” James eyes fluttered opened with much restraint, he’s exhaustion almost draining him. 

He only responded with a shuddering groan, “Remind me why again I agreed to be apart of this Order of Phoenix, I don’t know what’s more exhausting working for the Ministry or Dumbledore” he moaned rubbing his knees, “Damn, my body feels like its aged a decade”

Lily frowned, “Maybe,” she paused, “maybe take it easy, you don’t have to attend every meeting James – Dumbledore understand you are an Auror, he can’t expect you to participate all the time” her eyes were concerned as she stared at him. 

James shook his head, “I can’t, I can’t afford not too. Sirius and Remus are constantly out on missions, Remus - fuck, he does it days before and after a full moon and merlin knows how bloody exhausted he is” he passed his hand through his face, then looked at her as his hand slide down over his mouth, “They should be coming over, it’s Thursday right; it would do me some good to have all 5 of us together” he muttered mostly to himself as he grunted bending over to untie his shoe laces. 
He heard her grunt and without looking up questioned it, “What is it?” 

“Severus owled” she answered and sighed at the sharp look he gave her, “James, he’s busy” she reasoned, “Mastering potions isn’t an easy task” as she spoke, she noticed him redo his laces and get up suddenly, “James?” 

“No, this” James was definitely muttering to himself now, “This, this is the 2nd week he cancels on us” James rounded on her as he reached for his cloak, “The past 5 weeks he has shown up twice, and its always the same excuse; he’s busy.” He snapped, at her crossed arm and frustrated eyes he took in a deep breath, “Sorry, have dinner ready, Remus and Sirius will be here soon, I’ll be bringing our disappearing act of a brother” he hissed. 

Lily snickered but waved him away as he walked towards their floo connection, she heard the muttered ‘Malfoy Manor’ and then the all known sound of flames and then silence. 

James groaned painfully as he landed roughly, grumbling to himself as he rose from the floor; brushing away the soot he blinked and sighed as he removed his glasses and cleaned his lenses and then returned them. Only to look right into a scowling Lucius Malfoy. 

“Oh yes Potter, feel free to just stumble right in” he drawled a cup of tea in his hand, “No invitation necessary”

James would have apologized if he wasn’t so annoyed and so he leveled Lucius with a look, “Where is Severus?” he asked cutting to the case.

Lucius blinked, “I would assume the lab, its generally the place someone would complete a potion’s mastery” he offered with a teasing grin, and James eyes narrowed. 

“Hysterical, as always Lucius” Lucius shrugged, “Severus?” James asked again. 

“In his Lab Potter, are you daft?” 

James pursed his lips and walked by Lucius but a silver glints the man’s hand made him stop suddenly and he turned glancing back at the blond pureblood, his eyes zeroed onto the hand holding the tea and his eyes widened when he noticed the silver wedding band. Blinking he looked up confused. 

“You got married? When?” he asked. 

Lucius frowned exchanging the tea to his other hand and lowering the other his finger absently twisting the ring around, “A few days ago,” he said, he saw it despite James blinking the emotion away as quickly as it flashed in his eyes, the slight gleam of hurt – he bit the inside of his cheek, “It was a reserved gathering James”, the use of the man’s name gave him the response he was looking for, the slight tension in Potter’s forehead ceasing. 

“I-It wasn’t because of us, was it?” James couldn’t help but ask, his eyes firmly holding Lucius gaze. 

The blond let out an exasperated sigh, “Contraire to popular belief, I’m not my father’s son and despite Abraxas pureblooded ways I see some advantages in mixing blood status, however the Malfoy’s also depend too much on public opinion. My father doesn’t approve of my many connections, that being said he is too much of a coward to publically state them” he let out a frustrated sigh, “My parents were pleased with my engagement with Narcissa; her parents, her family. They didn’t share the same opinion” Lucius eyes darkened as he said those words and James let out a sigh. 

“I see, I’m sorry” James whispered sincerely then gave him a bright smile as he slapped his back affectionately, “Congrats, really you and Narcissa deserve much more” he said, “Is she here? You both should come over for dinner, Lily always makes enough, she would love to speak to Narcissa” he said. 

Lucius hesitated, “Pott—” 

“Lucius” James said a bit firmer, “I admit, I judged you prematurely,” he rubbed the back of his head with a deep sigh, “I judged all Slytherins prematurely, blaming them for their superior view of blood when in reality I was during my own version of it. It started with only extending a hand of friendship to Severus, yet I hope you also see that I’ve been trying to extend it to you as well, Severus loves you despite his aversion to the term” he rolled his eyes now. 

Lucius snickered but didn’t deny James words, he loved Severus dearly – a brother he had always hoped for, “It took me a while to trust you” Lucius admitted. 

James blinked his eyes tightening at his words but nodded understanding, “What made you?” 

Pondering the question he sighed, “Despite our friendship, Severus always remained inhibited, I won’t entirely say timid – the man has a quick tongue when provoked” he smirked and James agreed with a lazy chuckle, “but he remained constrained and reserved, yet you have always brought out the worse in him” he paused for a second seeing the guilt worm its way into James face and he gave him a snicker, “Let me finish, when I saw him that day in your home, I tried to convince him to leave with me; I was already upset, after we had graduated I tried every manipulation in the book to get him to move into Malfoy Manor, he refused.” Lucius had a deep scowl on his face and James understood the frustration. 

“His mother” James answered bitterly. 

Lucius grunted, “His mother” he repeated, “So you can understand my vexation when I found out where he was, and with whom” James flinched, “I worried that this truce, would eventually hurt him – not once have I seen a kind word muttered to his direction during school and I had little faith that you all could suddenly change. Severus, despite your past, defended you” he explained. 

James blinked surprised his eyes drifting towards the stairs that lead down to Severus’ lab, “H-He did?”, came a soft whisper. 

“He did, that same night I saw what he saw. Severus typically eats alone, barely socializes and during that dinner – regardless when Severus sat at the other end, keeping his face down; you along with Sirius kept adding him to the conversation, forcing him to interact. By the time the night concluded Severus had some life in his eyes, which only increased as your friendship progressed” Lucius admitted and smiled softly when James eyes softened, “I didn’t want him hurt, and Severus doesn’t trust easily and here he goes trusting you” 

James swallowed a vacant look of guilt flooding his eyes, “I can’t begin to apologi—” 

“No, Severus is no darling Potter” Lucius interrupted and saw the look of annoyance in his eyes, “You both I would say, annoyed each other equally – now I won’t go much into Blacks previous motives, but love and hate tread by a very thin line, wouldn’t you say” he raised a fine eyebrow and James cleared his throat with a sheepish grin, “I gauged his emotion, the very limited ones he shows and well – it was obvious, just as you were able to bring the worse out of Severus, you bring out the good – you all do.” He explained. 

James cleared his throat an odd emotion in his chest, “I care for you as well Lucius” 

“I know” James blinked not expecting for him to agree, “But, right now you aren’t here for me. Our brother seems to need another reminder that he isn’t alone” he gave James a knowing look and the Gryffindor nodded, “Go, I’m going to go find me my wife” he said and turned swiftly. 

James watched him go with a sigh and then turned towards the stairs, as he descended them, he heard the sounds of potions bubbling away in caldrons. He paused as he reached the bottom, a soft smile spreading across his face as he watched Severus move around the lab, his back remained turned to him but he had to admit, Severus had a flow as he reached for ingredients or instruments, his movements graceful and calculated. 

As he watched he also noticed some other things, things that made his eyes slant. A chair was placed in the corner of a room, covered in blankets and a small pillow perched on top. Toppled over potions books sprawled on the counters and floor and a small paddled stool. It looked slept in, narrowing his eyes he turned back to Severus his previous frustration returning. 

“This is your second night cancelling on us Severus” James announced his presence and he couldn’t help but wince when Severus jumped at his voice and few seconds later a puff of purple smoke erupted from the caldron in front of Severus, he then saw his brother’s shoulders slump defeated. 

“Potter!” he barked his tone filled with a surprised fury. 

James bristled at the name and crossed his arms, “Must we always have this conversation, it’s James, merlin’s beard Severus we’ve been friends if I can be so daring to admit – according to you” he added scathingly, “For the past few months, we are past last names” he grounded out, a bit tired of the same repeated conversation. 

Severus remained silent as he braced himself against the counter, “James” he corrected but the anger still remained, “I’ve told you many, many times you can’t interrupt me when I’m working on potions” he stressed. 

James chewed on the inside of his cheeks, feeling a bit guilty for ruining a potion but he couldn’t get himself to actually apologize – something was off. Severus always argued looking at him, yet; he hadn’t turned. 

“Severus?” he asked confused. 

The man only grunted as he cleaned his desk, casting the botched potion away with a flick of his wand but remained giving James his back, “James, I’m sorry really but I’m a bit busy today – I owed Lily” he waved at him, almost shooing him away and James raised an eyebrow at that as he stepped closer. 

“Yes, she mentioned the owl – you see I didn’t particularly care. The past five weeks you’ve showed up to two invitations, and now you’ve cancelled two in a role, Severus I told you—” 

James stopped, blinking when Severus’s hand landed loudly on the metal bench a sign of pure frustration, “Potter, I am busy, I don’t always have time for socializing—” 

“Severus” James’ voice was sharp as he stepped closer, he noticed the defensive tension in his brother’s shoulders and narrowed his eyes a pit forming in his stomach, “Turn around!” he ordered, he needed to see his brothers eyes, something wasn’t adding up. 

Another tense, but this time no response just an irritated sigh and a heavy silence. 

“Severus” another step forward, “Severus!” James pushed. 

James watched as Severus let his weight be supported by his arms, his body hunching over; head bowed “James I’m busy, I promise I’ll stop by tomorrow”, James wasn’t an Auror for just jokes, he knew the signs of deflecting and Severus was copying it to a tee. Crossing his arm, he leaned against the cobble wall to his side and exhaled loudly, enough to let Severus know he wasn’t leaving, a few seconds later Severus copied the same sound, “James” he said exasperatedly. 

James tusked as he reached for an empty vial glancing at its shape as he answered, “I have all day Severus, until you give me a good reason as to why you couldn’t make it today I am not leaving.” His voice was firm as he returned the vial and twisted his body leaning against the wall this time with his back, his left leg bent foot flat against it. 

He watched with slanted eyes as Severus remained still, very still and James’s bit down the urge to yell – force Severus to turn to him but he waited. Taking into consideration that Lucius hadn’t mentioned anything concerning upstairs, but then he blinked recalling the blonds last words ‘Our brother seems to need another reminder that he isn’t alone’, what did he mean by that? 

A sigh filled the silence in the room, “Promise me you won’t get angry” came Severus uncharacteristically soft voice, which startled James as he pushed himself away from the wall with a strangled groan. 

“That depends” James grunted his mood shifting. 

Another sigh left Severus but this time he finally moved turning as he now leaned against the table, his hair was still hiding his face but it was only for a short while, until Severus passed his hand through his hair uncovering what he wanted to keep a secret. Half of his face was battered, a dark ugly bruise covering his right eye, said eye red from an obvious popped blood vessel, his cheek swollen and contused and the corner of his mouth was a healing wound. 

James let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding, stumbling back as if he was struck, “It’s not as bad as it looks” Severus mumbled when he caught James’ reaction, then winced when James eyes darkened as he stalked over to him, if he would have been asked months ago the emotion, he would have felt seeing James Potter strut towards him, he would have answered with a sarcastic remark but he timidly remained still and hissed when his chin was taken. 

James was gentle as he moved his face, the man towering over him by a good few inch – despite the light touch the anger in his hazel eyes made Severus throat dry. 
“This happened yesterday” it wasn’t a question, James can clearly see the freshness of the injury but Severus nodded anyway and chewed the inside of his cheek when a dangerous flash passed James eyes, “Who?” he asked, James saw it – the slight hesitant look pass Severus eyes before he lowered them and James let out a slight growl, “I’m already angry Severus, I highly advise against lying to me” he warned. 

At Severus tensed body and eyes filled with apprehension James’s bit down his irritation and released the hold he still had on Severus chin, taking a few steps back to give the anxious Slytherin some space; once at a distance James crossed his arms, eyes clouding acknowledging he was still upset but not at Severus in particular. 
It didn’t ease Severus nerves as he guardedly looked at James with caution, he knew right now the anger James was feeling would intensify once he divulged the reason for his current state, he pursed his lips when James let out a grunt of annoyance and raised a hand to calm him. 

“Yesterday was my mothers birthday” he started. 

“Yes, Lily mentioned that in passing said you were taking her out to muggle London” James waved him on. 

Severus sighed with a nod, “That was the plan, however he didn’t allow her to leave” he added. 

James wasn’t following and quite frankly he was loosing his patience, “Severus, no offense but I couldn’t care less about your mother—” he stopped the sentence when Severus gave him a wounded look and groaned pinching the bridge of his nose, “Sorry that was uncalled for, I’m sorry you couldn’t spend time with her yesterday”, he didn’t really mean the words he said but he knew Severus needed to hear them. 

Severus gave him a sheepish look that turned to a grimace, “I-I, w-well...” he stuttered. 

James raised an eyebrow at Severus’ inarticulacy, something that was concerning on its own. Severus always had a quick tongue, an eloquence in speaking that was subpar – he had heard Severus out-speak McGonagall who also had a gracefulness in her words many times, to hear him stutter was off-putting.

He stared at him for a few seconds, seeing how Severus adam-apple boggle up and down, a clear sign of nerves as he just stared at him Severus with a mixture of trepidation and guilt. Then it hit him, a sudden pit forming in his stomach with such an intensity, James covered his mouth at the sudden wave of nausea – flashes of Severus’ body bruised in his room came flooding his head. 

“You went back” James’s voice sounded haunted, almost broken until fury filled his eyes, “You went back to that FUCKING house?!” he snarled. 

Severus jumped cursing at himself for reacting to a raised voice and dropped his head, “It was Mothers birthday James” he whispered, he grimaced a bit when he heard a hand slam down on the metal table in front of him, then let out a gasp when his chin was taken. 

Black eyes connected with burning hazel and Severus saw the many emotions passing through James, anger, pain, hurt, sadness and then lastly fury. 

“I’m going to kill him” he deadpanned, as he released his old and turned sharply his boots stomping towards the stairs. 

Severus eyes widened a look of panic passing his face as he pushed himself away from the table, “J-James” he exclaimed, “N-no James, James! Please” he begged and sighed in relief when James stopped a few inches away from the steps his back was still turned so Severus continued quickly, “Its fine, seriously—” 

James turned a look of frustration on his face, “FINE! Does your face look fine to you Severus! Because is surely doesn’t look fine to me! Your lip is busted, you have a contused eye, for fucks sakes half of your face is swollen.” James eyes darkened as he thought of something and he slanted his eyes, stepping forward “I swear to merlin Severus if you are hiding any other injuries” he growled. 

“I’m not” Severus said hurriedly, “I’m not, Tobias won’t be a problem anymore” he whispered. 

James anger deflated for a second at hearing Severus call his father by his name, despite everything that bastard had done. Severus still felt this responsibility to acknowledge his title, seeing Severus stand firm despite his bruises and the cold collected anger in his black eyes made him sigh, “Go on” he urged. 

“I hadn’t been back to the house in months,” he started and James crossed his arms, “I know you and B-Sirius didn’t want me to go alone—” 

James felt a spark of anger at that as he grunted, “We will discuss that later” he gave him a pointed glare and almost smirked at the pink hint in Severus cheeks. 
“but it was her birthday and, when I floo’d her to see what time she wanted to meet at Diagon Alley. She looked so sad, I couldn’t, I couldn’t let her spend her birthday alone or just with him” he whispered, James groaned walking towards the armchair another irritation spiking through him but that would be discussed later and sat down, “He wasn’t at home so I floo’d over thinking I could spend the morning with her and then leave without him finding out, but one thing led to another and we lost track of time; before I knew it he was standing not a few feet away from me” he whispered. 

James jaw clenched, “You could have floo’d any of us, merlin Severus, even Remus would have accompanied you and you know how much he detest confrontation” he muttered tiredly as he passed his hand over his face. 

Severus shook his head, “The full moon is in a few days, I may have needed some assistance but I also don’t want him dead” Severus met his eyes and James shrugged, “I-I provoked him—”

“Don’t do that!” James snapped, “Do not make any excuses for that man, nothing excuses a father harming his own kid” he spat angrily.

Severus raised two hands, “Easy James, I’m not. All I’m saying is, he told me to leave – I refused” he explained, James blinked “I am so tired of being afraid, of tensing at the mere mentioned of his name and so enough was enough and yes, I froze when he stalked over to me and I didn’t react as quickly as I hoped and he landed a good few punches but, before I could even control my self – I felt a sudden rage and next thing I knew I had my wand to his neck, he gave me one look and just left.” He sighed as he finished his story. 

James stared at him a few minutes, then dropped his head with a shaky sigh. 

Silence followed, well apart from the anxious swallows from Severus as he stood looking at James with narrowed eyes, “James” he whispered after a few minutes. 
“Give me a minute Severus” James answered, Severus couldn’t help but feel goosebumps at the chill James tone caused him, before he could blink James rose from his spot and walked towards him a look of firm determination. 

“James” the potion apprentice muttered, receiving no response he couldn’t help but scowl, “Potter” he tried. 

It only seem to irritate James and that didn’t help the pit in Severus stomach from growing, it took only a few short strides for James to be back in front of Severus and what happened after still stunned Severus. James swiftly took his arm and spun him around until he braced himself against the cool metal table with a startled grunt. 
“Po-James what are you doing?” Severus would deny the slight panic in his tone if anyone would to ask later but his eyes widened at the firm hand still circled around his waist keeping him in place, the sound that left his lips when he felt his robes being lifted would never be repeated, “Potter, what-Ah!” he gasped both in shock and in slight pain. 

James hand fell five times onto his thin bottom with a fiery intensity it shocked him, just as fast as he was turned around he was spun to face James. His eyes must have betrayed his expression because instead of looking at an angry James he looked right into a troubled one, James hand remained on his shoulder, speaking before Severus could even registered what happened. 

“Do you understand why I swatted you Severus?” he asked. 

Severus opened his mouth a couple of time still frozen, he lowered his eyes and noticed the slight trembling of his fingers and groaned internally tightening them into fist. James sighed seeing the action and step forward but the wince Severus couldn’t control causing a strangled sound of distress to leave James chest, tan fingers found themselves under Severus chin and once again forced to look up. 

“Severus” James tone was soft his eyes pained, “Why did I swat you?” he asked, he needed to see if Severus understood. 

‘Why am I disciplining you Severus?’ Tobias voice rang in his ear and Severus closed his eyes tightly, ‘You disobeyed boy, I’ll tell you when you’ve had enough now STAY fucking still’, the memory came with the sickening sound of a belt slashing through the air and Severus winced again a small gasp leaving his lips. 
“I-I lied” he whispered, “I disobeyed” was added mechanically. 

James swallowed down the bile in his throat, he moved his hand until it was cupping Severus cheeks, “Severus look at me” he ordered, a few minutes past and black eyes slowly blinked opened and James teeth clenched at the fear, anger and mistrust in his eyes, “You placed yourself in danger”, James watched as those words sunk into Severus so he continued, “Yes you disobeyed, however, you are an adult Severus – did I in a moment of anger tell you to never go back to that house yes, did I expect you not too. Of course not, despite my feelings towards your mother” a scowl formed on James lips, “She’s your mother, my anger – most of my rage – is directed to your father, the other part, is because you were hurt and you knew that was a possibility”

Severus blinked, the previous indignation he felt at being treated as child slowly dissolving as he looked into defeated hazel eyes, “I-I—” he stuttered again and this time Severus growled frustrated, “Fuck, I-I can’t even speak” he snapped. 

James chuckled his hand never leaving Severus face, “You aren’t alone, I know this friendship is hard for you – but you have me, Sirius” he gave him a look and Severus eyes dropped his neck flushing, “Remus, he won’t be pleased about this, you know how motherly Moony gets” he teased and Severus groaned, “You have Lucius and Lily, you’ve always had them, if it wasn’t us, why not contact them?” he asked. 

Severus sighed his face tilting towards the hand holding his cheek self consciously and James bit his lip from saying how fucking adorable it was, but if he had voiced it Severus would no doubt smack his hand away with a growl on personal space. 

“I know, I am sorry” he muttered finally meeting James eyes with a bit of shame.

James gave him a look, “I know,” then his eyes flashed causing Severus to blink, “You are not to step foot in that house alone Severus, when an abuser loses their control – merlin knows what can happen. It doesn’t matter who, but you take someone ok?” his hand moving from his cheek to grasp his chin firmly, Severus reluctantly nodded, “Good now, finish picking up – I’m sure Lily is getting restless” he muttered, “I’ll look around while you do” he said. 

“James—” Severus stopped when he received a hard stare and grumbled, “I’m not your kid Potter” he mumbled but turned around to start picking up his supplies. 

James only chuckled, “Maybe not, but kid brother does have a nice ring to it – or do you prefer baby?” he teased. 

Severus turned his head sharply, “Call me baby Potter and I swear I’ll put a potion in your shampoo and that unruly head of hair of yours is gone” he hissed. 

James opened his mouth wide in shock his eyes swimming with laughter, “You’ll do that to your older brother Severus?” a hand came to his chest mocking disbelief and hurt “I-I don’t even know who you are anymore” his lips twitching to a smile. 

Severus rolled his eyes at his antics and turned to continue picking up his mess, whilst he did so James walked around the room, looking at the odd potion ingredients; blinking a bit bothered by the blinking eyes in a jar and something that look suspiciously like a human heart. 

“I take it most of these items come from Knockturn alley, right?” James asked lifting a jar of a dubious liquid. 

“Careful, that can sense your magic” Severus warned and snickered when James all but threw it back onto the shelf, James turned with a scowl as Severus rolled his eyes, “Don’t ask questions, if you don’t like the answer James” he deadpanned turning as he grabbed for an empty vile. 

James pursed his lips as he watched his brother pour a silvery liquid into a vile, corking it then placing into his inner robe, “You’re taking a potion with you?” he couldn’t help but ask. 

Severus didn’t turn as he answered opting to continue to clean, “Something I’ve been working on for sometime, I finally perfected it” he answered, at James grunt he turned his head briefly, “I’ll tell you back at Godric Hallows,” he explained. 

“Hmm” another grunt but James turned not questioning farther, coming across a desk at the back of the lab, potions after potions books and scribes, rolled parchment littered the wooden desk and floor - Severus elegant writing scribbled on mostly all exposed paper. His hand passed over the intricate work, his eyes softening as he felt the hours of slaving Severus must have poured into his studies. 

As he turned a shinning postcard caught his attention and he blinked, noticing the familiarities. “You haven’t RSVP’d to the wedding yet?” James’ voice sounded surprised as he grabbed for the invitation turning, bracing his back onto the desk. 

“What?” Severus was a little further from him as he placed the items into a sink and turned at the unheard question, his eyes crinkled a bit as he tried to decipher what James was holding, but frowned upon noticing it. He bit his lower lip a look of almost disappointment and irritation passing his face. 

Sighing he turned back to the sink, turning on the water and using the task to postpone his answer, at the tapping of James foot and his usual grunting; he made a clicking noise with his mouth, “I was still contemplating my response” 

“Contemplating your response?” James repeated with a bite in his tone, Severus didn’t look at him so he continued, “What could you have to contemplate, its our wedding Severus. I sure as hell would like all my brothers present” he argued. 

Severus let his hands fall exasperated, the item he was holding clashing against the sink and turned to James with a look, which James returned just as firmly “I am still not sure if I am attending” he admitted, and felt a slight wave of guilt at James affronted expression. 

James couldn’t help but feel hurt and then a surge of jealousy, “Did you attend Malfoy’s?” he crossed his arms with a raised eyebrow. 

“Jealousy Potter?” Severus teased but he let out a deep sigh when James eyes dropped a bit showing his true emotions, “I was a witness yes but that’s only because Narcissa’s friend, cancelled at the last moment; I was here and he asked” then he gestured around the room indicating the lab they were currently in, “I am in no position to say no, this lab and these ingredients aren’t entirely in my price range” he explained. 

James frowned but he had to admit Severus was right, “What is stopping you?” 

“Honestly James, it will not be befitting of you – if I were to attend” he muttered softly, “It wouldn’t be appropriate” 

James’ face contorted angrily at his words, “For who? Because for my understanding it is my wedding – I don’t give a bloody arse who disagrees” he growled, tossing the invitation onto another table, “You were invited, and it isn’t even as a guest – you are a groomsmen Severus standing by my side” he jabbed the card, “I fucking dare someone to oppose” his eyes slanted.

“I don’t want to cause a scene, which it most definitely will” Severus sighed. 

James gave him a hard look and Severus swore he saw a vein in his forehead twitch, then a knowing look pass James face and he sighed, “No, I let go of my graduation – but this, this is a family event, you aren’t escaping it that quickly—” 

“Graduation?” Severus sputtered, “I told you I couldn’t attend I was shadowing—” 

James raised a hand with a formidable look, “I knew you were lying Severus, because that same day we were told of our special speakers, Horace Slughorn was going to speak at the ceremony since 40% of our graduating class were Slytherin” at Severus blank expression he waved him off, “That is beside the point, did you not go because you weren’t ready, or because you felt you didn’t belong?” he asked his voice tight. 

Severus grimaced, “Which either one would make you less angry” he gave him a weak smile. 

“Severus” James snapped, “You are going to the wedding,” at Severus protest, hazel eyes flashed “I will drag you there myself!” 

“You can’t be serious?” 

“I am, feel free to test me” James said sourly, “You’ll get the same response you received today, are you ready to leave?” he asked a bit testy, at the other man’s nod he grunted, “Good, I’m starving” he started walking towards the stairs, “Oh, don’t think I didn’t notice your deplorable sleeping habits Severus, we will touch bases on that” came James chilly response up the stairs. 

Severus paused for a second, his eyes darting towards the arm chair in the corner and let out a groan as he followed James, he really shouldn’t be surprised. 

Severus corrected himself as they apparated in front of the small cottage, his eyes darting towards the flickering lights, he could tell the movements in the window. The shadows barely present with the soft glow of the fire in the chimney or the candles flickering on the window’s ledge. 

His hand came up to touch his bruised cheek and heard a irritated huff beside him, turning he caught James narrowed eyes and he casted him a look, “I’m fine, it barely hurts” he lied, it stung. 

“What were you thinking? Deny all our invitations until you healed?” he asked as he opened the gate and allowed Severus to enter. 

The man only shrugged, “I didn’t really plan that far ahead” he admitted and ignored the gruff grumble that followed, he went to open the door but paused on the knob turning his head towards the oldest of the two with a hesitant glance, “H-How mad do you think they’d be?” he asked. 

James raised an eyebrow, “Sirius and Remus haven’t seen the brunt of how violent your father is, so it’s not going be pretty” he admitted with a frown, “Prepare yourself, I know you don’t like to be touched but Lily and Remus will be a bit overbearing, Sirius well, he could react like I did” he warned. 

Severus flushed, “Will he swat me?” 

“There’s a good chance” James was glad he kept the smirk from his voice, but Severus soft question was so childlike and innocent it both saddened him and made him smile, “Go on, I’m sure they know we are here” he said. 

Severus took in a deep breath and then opened the door, thankfully no one was waiting in the living room; giving Severus a good moment to gather his wit as he walked toward the distant voices in the kitchen. He removed his robe at James slight tap to his shoulder, grabbing for the vile in the inner pocket and holding it tightly in his hand.

As he walked into the dinning room he found Lily seated facing him, both Remus and Sirius chatting but their backs facing the entrance. He wanted to silence Lily but with a wince she stood her face etched with horror, eyes wide. “Severus?” she exclaimed, “What happened?” she rushed around the table. 

“What?” was followed by Remus, “Severus?” came Sirius right behind him, both turning and also getting to their feet at his appearance. 

Severus didn’t even have time to explain, he was taken by Lily gently – directed towards an empty chair and forced down as her hands came to trace over his swollen face, “Sev?” she whispered pained, “What? Who?” she rambled confused. 

Severus noticed Sirius round on James, his lips moving quickly in unheard questions his eyes flashing dangerously as they darted from him and towards James, Remus eyes just glowed amber. “Someone want to explain what the fuck happened?” Sirius growled. 

“His father” James answered tiredly. 

“His father!” came the unanimous response. 

“Tobias did this?” Lily answered her lips in a fine line, then she closed her eyes with a sigh “You went back?” she asked both disappointed and angry. 

“You didn’t?” both Remus and Sirius said sharply. 

Severus sighed giving James a pleading look to help but he scowled when James let out a snicker, “You tried hiding it,” he said, his tone was light but Severus saw the tightness in his eyes, the young man didn’t have a chance to even argue with him when he felt a sting go through his thigh and looked accusingly toward Sirius who was know towering above him, beside Lily a look of formidable anger in his eyes. 

“Black” despite the use of his last name, Severus note in his voice was very much a chastised whine. 

Sirius crossed his arms, “What did we tell you?” he brusquely asked, “Severus” he pressed sharply. 

Severus sighed a small grimace leaving his lips when his face muscles contrasted, that caused both Lily and Remus to shift frustrated, as he answered he noticed Lily disappearing from the room, “Not to go back” he grumbled feeling a little uncomfortable with the glares he was receiving from the three remaining men, Remus typically remained calm but even he could see the flickers of amber in his normally green eyes. 

“Alone” James and Sirius stressed, “Its your bloody house, obviously we wouldn’t expect you to not ever return but damn it Severus!” Sirius continued rubbing his face tiredly, “I know your father’s type, the kind of man he is – going back, without someone even knowing you went, it could have ended badly” his grey eyes bore into Severus and he dropped his head. 

“Sorry” he muttered lowly, they all sighed, and instead of lifting his head Severus felt a hand pass through his hair and knew which hand it belonged to – he didn’t know when it happened, how it happened – but a growing attraction seeded in his stomach for a particular Black and he tried, tried very hard to ignore the emotion. So, he leaned back at the touch, letting the person retrieve their hand back hesitantly. 

Avoiding those deep grey eyes that now were a cloudy storm he rose from his chair, “My father—" he paused, “Tobias won’t be a problem and I don’t see myself visiting soon” he had his back facing them and flinched when his lip disagreed with his talking. 

The three grave him a grunt but nodded, “He better not be” Sirius rumbled under his breath, “He’s purely lucky I’ve never gotten the privilege in meeting him, there’s moments being a Black has its advantages”, Severus turned at the dark underlying threat in his voice and gave him a poignant look. 

“That won’t be necessary” 

“Let’s hope” Remus said scathingly, “Since Moony has gotten a very good sent of your father” his eyes flashed and Severus looked at him stunned, “Don’t look at me like that Severus, you should be warned; Moony never forgets” he said impassively. 

“Alright, alright; enough of the third degree – Severus knows he did wrong” came Lily as she walked back inside, in her hands she carried a few muggle medicinal objects and just pointed towards the chair, “Sit, James could you prepare the plates; this shouldn’t take but a few minutes” 

Severus obeyed her command sitting down with a moan, “Is there any other wounds I should be worried about?” she asked as she inspected his face, her eyes were stiff as she looked at him and he felt a ball of guilt fill his chest – of all the people to hide what his father did, Lily should have never been one of them – she was always there, this was a pastime of theirs. 

“No” was his soft reply. 

“You aren’t lying?” she asked sharply, he noticed Remus rigid gaze on him and gave them both a reproachable look. 

“I’m not, James already threatened if I was” he pouted. 

Lily gave him a small smile, “Well lets hope his threat landed firmly” her eyes bore into his knowingly and Severus face flushed at her choice of words turning his head, he winced as she passed a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol over his cut lip and scowled, “Honestly Severus,” she huffed, “Let me guess, your mother stood by as he punched you?” she gave him a look as if daring him to deny it. 

His eyes held hers for a brief second and her green eyes darkened, “Unbelievable” she snarled, “she dare calls herself a mother”, Severus didn’t argue with her – partly because she had a tight grip on his chin as she faintly pressed on his bruised cheek and secondly because his protest or excuses would die on deaf ears. 

“Are you planning on holding that potion in your hand all night Severus?” James asked as he placed his plate down, he was also itching to find out what it was. 
Severus suddenly felt very sheepish as he glanced at the others, he was now seated beside Remus, James at the head, Lily to his right across from him and Sirius beside her. The others had eaten maybe two bites of their food before James had question him, now abandoning their eating intrigued themselves. 

“Oh, yeah” he unclenched his fist now holding the vial with two fingers, allowing them to see the silver shimmering liquid inside, after a few seconds he placed it down and then passed it to Remus without many words, “Its for you” he muttered his face a bit flushed. 

Remus blinked clearly confused as he grabbed for the potion, “For me?” 

“For Remus?” James shared the same confusion. 

Lily looked at Severus, noticing how he kept his eyes onto the food – he was never much to being the center of attention – she knew what the potion was, she had caught him ages ago looking at potions book but she had always assumed it was only to challenge himself; now, now the realization almost broke her heart. 

“Severus, why would I need a potion; James or yourself now typically give me pain relief after the full moon” he mentioned, his eyes still on the vail – it didn’t look like anything he normally took, as he looked at it realization slowly crept onto his face and he let out a shuddered breath, “Wolfsbane?”, his eyes landed on Severus stunned, “Severus is this wolfsbane?” he asked. 

Severus scowled, “Yes, no need to get emotional Lupin its just—” he was stopped mid sentence when he was roughly pulled into a tight hug from said werewolf, “Lu-Remus!” he gasped out. 

“Wolfsbane?” James muttered slightly confused, he never really paid attention in Potions, then blinked, “Wait its that potion we read about in 3rd year—” 

“Yes, the very same – a potion that only highly leveled Potion Masters are even able to attempt; let alone accomplish” Sirius said in awe. 

“Not to mention exceedingly expensive” Remus muttered his voice thick as he still held onto Severus who was grumbling into the werewolf’s chest to be released, Remus did so with reluctance but kept a tight grip on Severus not allowing the man to be out of reach as he looked into his eyes, eyes that were oddly glowing.

“Severus, the ingredients are not only expensive but rare, and very complicated to obtain” he muttered, “Not only that, but every batch only produces one vial, you spent so much doing this” Remus voice became pained at the end. 

Severus sighed, “It’s nothing” 

“It’s not nothing” Remus protested, “Do you understand how much this potion helps, I can keep my mentality when I transform; I won’t have to worry about hurting James or Sirius, hurting anyone” he whispered, “I can actually look forward to this full moon” he whispered. 

“You can look forward to all of them” Severus added lowly. 

“Say again?” James pushed, as Remus looked at him with a raised eyebrow. 

“Severus” the wolf’s tone was a bit sharp, “I wasn’t kidding when I said this potion comes with a hefty price tag, or the hours of work it requires, you are in your

potions mastery – I won’t let you dedicate precious time you need for your studies” he said shaking his head, “Thank you, one is more than enough” he muttered. 
“I’m not asking for your permission Lu—” he stopped when a growl escaped the mans’ chest and backpedaled, ‘it probably wouldn’t be too wise to anger him so close to a full moon’ he thought, “I’ve perfected it, its an intricate potion that is true, however I’m not one to run from a challenge and the more I practice the better or stronger I can make it. Besides, Lucius is very generous when it comes to supplies” he said with a smirk, at the scowl on Remus lips he continued, “He’s also not paying for it all, I have some deals with some local shops – they supply some ingredients and I give them potions.” He explained. 

He heard an affronted grunt from behind him, “Local shops, some being in Knockturn alley?” James’ voice had an edge to it. 

Severus turned to look at him with a tired expression but nodded, “Just one, some ingredients are very hard to find” he said with a shrug, James now rubbed his face a groan leaving his lips. 

“Remind me to write you a check before you leave” 

“Check?” he asked. 

James nodded, “Yes, a check – Lucius can’t be the only one paying for these ingredients and if it helps Rems” Remus sent him a glare but James ignored it, “Of course I’ll pitch in, but that little deal with the store – it ends” he said sharply. 

“James—” 

“It ends Severus” James, Remus and Sirius all stated. 

Severus let out a grumble but nodded as he took a seat, he glanced at Lily who had remained silent all that time and found her giving him a warm smile, “And all this time and I thought you were reading into that potion at Hogwarts just for some light reading” she teased but then her eyebrows creased forward when Severus winced at her words and looked down. 

All the boys turned to her, “Hogwarts?” James whispered as his eyes turned to Severus who found his food oddly interesting, “You were looking into Wolfsbane at Hogwarts?” he asked. 

“You knew me, I was always looking on how to advance” he stated. 

Sirius lips thinned, “You are lying” he hissed. 

“Severus” Remus said softly, “When did you start researching?” he asked. 

Severus licked his lips and with a resigned sigh answered, “After the incident” 

The silence that followed was heavy, Sirius in particular looked like he would be sick his face paling at Severus words, Remus wasn’t any better as his face fell; while James felt his chest cave in.

“After the incident?” Sirius whispered, “I-I” he stammered, “I” his brain could barely form a sentence, “I don’t understand” 

Severus passed his hand through his hair, raising his eyes to look at Lily who looked both guilty and curious for his answer, “After that night, I didn’t really listen to Dumbledore. He told me to avoid you four, stay at a distance” he explained, “but, I was full of anger, rage – I was almost killed and nothing was done about it” he didn’t need to see their faces to know and feel the grimace, from the corner of his eye he could tell Sirius lock jaw and internally groaned, “So, I followed you all; itching to learn of anything – use anything for blackmail, looking back at it” Severus rolled his eyes with slight irritation, “I can see why you hated me, probably deserved it—” he didn’t finish that sentence when a hiss escaped his lips at the sudden sharp pain to his thigh.

Turning his head, he looked directly into Remus pure amber eyes and cowered back with a grimace, “I don’t mean dying Remus” he sulked but the wolf just rose an eyebrow so he returned to looking away from them. “At first it was just for leverage, information I could extort, but then I saw it” he whispered. 

“Saw what?” it was James who asked, his voice even. 

“The reason you were doing it, I didn’t know much about werewolves – but something was itching the back of my head as to why you were so set on keeping it a secret. Clearly Dumbledore knew of Remus condition, so any rumors even if a student were to find out would be squashed as an over imagination. Something else had to be the reason, obviously that night I also discovered you three were animagus but, even then; the headmaster isn’t stupid, I was sure he knew” he stated. 

“You never told him?” Sirius grey eyes shimmered with regret, at Severus shake of his head he moved forward with a shuddered breath as he covered his face. 

“That following full moon, I stayed hidden near the willow tree; to see exactly what you four did every month” he explained, he heard a frustrated sigh escape Remus. 

“That was reckless Severus, I could have sensed you” he growled. 

Severus nodded agreeing, the amber in Remus eyes hadn’t entirely dissipated and he was safe to assume angering the wolf wouldn’t be wise, “I watched as you all controlled him, taking turns in directing him away from Hogwarts, away from endangering the students or himself; the next morning – I saw the bruises, the cuts, so swallowing down my pride I started researching, found the potion and dedicated most of my days wondering why aid for werewolves were so difficult to find. I may have not liked you then Remus but you didn’t deserve the curse, or the shame it comes with” he whispered. 

He heard a sharp scrape of a chair, a few angry footsteps and then the slam of a door; the house shaking by the strength of its blow; Severus didn’t need to look up to know who it was. 

“So” James’ tone was piercing, “As we tormented you—” 

Severus looked at him incredulously, “I wouldn’t use torment—” 

“Bully, roughed you up, humiliated” James offered with a glare. 

Severus scowl deepened, “The blame goes both ways James, I was a sodding arsehole – believed to be well above anyone else and that definitely included you blasted Gryffindors. So sure, were you two idiots? Yes, but so was I” he insisted. 

James crossed his arms with a defiant look in his eyes, “There’s a difference, we proved that we were prejudice by how we treated you, your response was a reaction. You and Lily have always been friends and she’s Gryffindor” he pointed out. 

“We were also neighbors before we were sorted” Severus reminded him, causing both Lily and James to roll their eyes. 

“That doesn’t matter, I treated you unfairly on the train on day one – everything since that day has been a counter. If I had treated you differently, offered friendship or had been civil.” James swallowed, “Things could have been different”. 

Severus sighed, “You tripped me, I overreacted; the same could be said if I had said anything but question your intellect and make fun of your proposed house. We were both 11, and stupid” he brushed him off, James lips remained in a thin line but then his eyes glanced over to the door with a sigh, Severus followed the gaze and let out a sigh himself as he raised from his chair, “Let me speak to him” 

As he walked towards the door James grabbed his arm lightly, glancing at him with the corner of his eye his forehead scrunched forward confused, “Be patient” James implored, Severus nodded. 

Severus felt a sense of reverse déjà vu, almost like he had been in the same situation he was in now but viewing it in a different perspective. He found Sirius propped down on his knees as he glanced towards the woods behind the cottage. He couldn’t see his face, the soft cascading curls covered him and Severus itched to reach and pass his hand through them, to see if they were as soft as they looked. 

He internally groaned at the thought and crossed his arms a scowl forming on his features, “There’s no need to be so emotional Black” he grunted. 

He heard a faint scoff leave Sirius lip before the older of the two raised to his feet and turned, Severus blinked almost stepping back at the red eyes that stared back at him, “No, you don’t get to Snape your way out of this” he snapped. 

Severus chocked over a cough as he cleared his throat, “Snape my way out?” he asked with narrowed eyes, “What entirely does that mean?” he asked. 

“That, be dismissive, avoiding the actual problem – addressing the fact that what you went through, what we did” Sirius motioned towards himself angrily “Fucked you up—” 

The Slytherin let out an amused laugh, “Oi, quite the ego Black” Severus eyes sparkled with mirth but his voice was tight, “We were at Hogwarts for about 9 month out of every year, I would say I would interact with the ‘Marauders’ the span of 2 months. You all didn’t delegate my entire existence” he finished with a glower, “To be quite honest, you lowered my IQ – apart from Remus – I avoided the quarrels, and the oh so droning of your pathetic excuses and taunts the best I could.” He finished with a hard look. 

Sirius chewed the inside of his cheek at his words, “We still didn’t make it easier” he added. 

Severus looked at him exasperated, “You didn’t” he earned a wince from him, “I didn’t also, James keeps stating that my responses were retaliation but I know my mouth gets me into trouble” he said with a smirk, 

Sirius let out a sigh and walked forwards, Severus assumed he would pass him but he froze when Sirius stood not an inch away from him, a hesitant hand grabbing onto his, grey eyes locked with black with a faint sadness, “We could have been something, had I not wasted it with hatred” he whispered.

Severus swallowed, “We could have been” the words came out hoarsely, “But life has many possibilities – it could have been worse or—” 

“Better” Sirius inched closer, the other hand that was empty slowly touched Severus good cheek – the winced that Severus made broke Sirius heart but he continued, “We, I could make it better, fix us” he said strongly. 

“Sirius” Severus voice was guarded; his eyes boring into the Gryffindor, he traced Sirius face, the short stubble he was growing, the way his grey eyes darkened into a coming storm, how much emotion the man could express in just those orbs, he let his eyes fall as he shook his head. 

“Please” Sirius begged, “Severus, please; let me show you how sorry I am – one chance, just give me one chance” he pleaded. 

Showing a rare moment of weakness Severus let out a shuddered breath as he blinked away the moisture building behind his eyelids, “I am bitter and broken; I am nothing for anyone” 

Sirius eye flashed with anger at those words, his thumb caressed his cheek then gently moved until it landed behind his head, “You are perfect, I’m sorry for only seeing it now” he murmured, “Please?” he implored. 

Severus could have easily moved away from the embrace, move back and allow Sirius to retrieve his arms. Hell, he could have reached for his wand, or punched Sirius for his forwardness but the pull he felt towards Sirius. It was nothing he felt towards anyone and Severus had his shares of sexual encounters, merely one night stands. He couldn’t see himself in a relationship, he alone was too much to handle – the baggage he carried, the broken soul he was, would burden even the best of hearts. 
But, he heard himself answer – his own voice sounding strange, like an imposter. Felt himself say, yes. So softly, allowing his body to mold itself with Sirius, and just like he feared. The vivid imagination of a young man – the moments he had allowed himself to envision a life with Sirius, the wild dreams of their lips touching – they did. The intoxicating aroma that was Sirius Black filled him entirely as their lips met, a soft, timid kiss. The hands that were holding now their fingers entwined and Severus other hand finally found its guilty pleasure. 

And yes, they were as soft as he feared.