Sugar Pots Delivery
Severus tugged at the shirt he wore. Feeling distinctly awkward in the longsleeved white shirt, not because it was a school shirt but more because of what he had to wear around the collar of the shirt as well.
It was a red and gold tie. Very clearly a Hogwarts tie.
His benefactor must have been a Gryffindor… That would actually explain a lot. Severus internally groaned and prayed to every deity in existence that whoever it was wasn’t someone that he went to school with. All the same he moved over to the bed and took a deep breath, running his hands through his hair just one more time before he opened his eyes and looked up at the large ornate mirror perched on the stand right in front of him.
It’s been roughly four years since he graduated from Hogwarts and… a few things have changed in Severus life. After the passing of his mother he moved out of Spinners End and managed to find a place of his own. It wasn’t anything fancy. Just a cosy little apartment above an apocathery in Knockturn alley. He didn’t join the dark lord after graduation, basically lost all contact with Lucius Malfoy and in those first few years, he filled his time apprenticing for the old woman that owned the apocathery he lived above.
None of these changes had been accidental.
In the beginning, when he first started at Hogwarts, Severus had had such high hopes for the wizarding world.
He’d hoped that he’d finally find a place where he belonged. Somewhere safe where he would find people that accepted him and didn’t reject him after just looking at him. He’d hoped to find companionship beyond what he shared with Lily, understanding and maybe even love.
Unfortunately, the wizarding world proved to be disappointing.
Nothing changed, in some ways they became worse. No one understood or accepted him, no one really seemed to care. People only seemed to pay attention to him when they wanted something from him or when they were trying to hurt him. Lucius Malfoy and Potter’s morons being perfect examples in both cases. The rest of the time he was just ignored. No one cared for him, no one ever tried to help. He was shunned and ostracized and harmed almost every day of his life and for what?
Severus doesn’t know what it is that he did that just automatically earned him such treatment. Of course, he’d been told multiple times that he was ugly and unattractive but… surely that couldn’t be the only reason could it? He’d been told that his personality left something to be desired, but really with the treatment he received from all those around him on a daily basis how could he not be cold and withdrawn?
But no one cared to understand him, no one even tried. Even Lily abandoned him eventually and Severus was left truly and utterly alone. That’s around the time that he really started to consider the offer that Lucius kept giving him. he started to listen to the whispers from Avery, Mulciber and Wilkes and he almost thought that joining the Dark Lord was his best… his only option.
If no one wants him and no one cares then why not give himself over to someone that would.
The Dark Lord was recruiting and he was more than willing to have Severus join his Death Eater ranks, even if he was just a half-blood.
It was all so tempting.
Until the night that he actually attended a Death Eater meeting and actually saw an unforgivable performed on an actual human being.
That’s when the whole joining the dark side thing lost its charm.
Despite what many people believed. He wasn’t evil, he didn’t enjoy the idea of hurting anyone, let alone hurting them like that. But Severus knew that if he became a Death Eater, he wouldn’t have a choice.
He didn’t take the mark.
At the time the Dark Lord wasn’t quite so desperate that he’d go running after a half-blood boy, so when Severus’ disinterest became apparent he simply moved on. Of course his house mates weren’t quite as understanding and his treatment in Slytherin house took somewhat of a sharp downturn.
The only thing that occasionally made things better was Regulus and his insistent presence around Severus.
Regulus…
Well, maybe there’s one person he could count on as a friend. One person that truly seemed to care. He really is so grateful for Regulus. The younger man was there for Severus in some of his darkest times. Even when his bastard brother tried to make things difficult purely because he didn’t want Severus around Regulus, things were still O.K. Because he could cry as much as he wanted in front of the junior and Regulus would be right there by his side.
All the same.
Hogwarts, the wizarding world all of it. Severus quickly became disenchanted with it all and for some time he contemplated escaping to the muggle world and living as a squib. The muggle world had only truly been terrible because of his father. Who knows, maybe he’d be able to live a quiet and peaceful life.
Unfortunately, that wasn’t really an option for Severus.
His mother had passed away and he wanted out of Spinner’s End.
Unfortunately, with no money and no muggle career prospects to speak of things weren’t looking too good. After all, Hogwarts wasn’t exactly recognised as an institution of learning and he didn’t go to any muggle schools. That’s when he found out about Madame Porter and her dingy little potions shop in Knockturn Alley.
Apparently, she was offering room and board and a small stipend and an apprenticeship in her shop. After getting there however, Severus realised that it was less of an apprenticeship and more of a shopkeepers position. He’d mind the shop and brew her potions for her. Since she was a qualified potionsmaster she’d be able to approve his own mastery.
It was a good deal as far as he was concerned.
Again, it wasn’t glamourous but he managed to move away from his father and avoid the Dark Lord as much as he could. Plus, most of the people that tormented him in school would never dream of setting foot in Knockturn Alley so he never had to see any of them again. And as long as he kept his head down, he could make sure that he had no involvement in the looming war in anyway whatsoever.
Severus figured that in a few years he could get his mastery, get a few potions patents of his own, open up his own shop somewhere far away from wizarding Britain and finally live that quiet peaceful existence that he’s always wanted. It was a good deal…
At the time.
In order to get his mastery Severus needed to apprentice for a potions master for three years, then he’d need to submit a project in which he either creates a new potion or significantly improves on an existing recipe and then last but not least he needed to pay the fee.
He completed the first two requirements, with an improved version of the Wolfsbane potion created by Damocles Belby being his potions project. The only thing Severus was struggling with was the fee.
It was… It was too much.
No matter how much he saved or how many extra hours he did for madame Porter, he simply couldn’t make up the money. It was frustrating in the worst way.
It wasn’t until he went out with Regulus one night that he discovered a… slightly unconventional way to end his money problems.
Regulus decided to take Severus out for the night to help him blow off some steam since he knew just how stressed his friend was. Although he had offered multiple times to just give the raven the money he needed.
“Since Mum and Dad have been gone, I have more than I know what to do with Sev.” Regulus almost pleaded, “I promise this sponsorship is nothing, I can have the money transferred to you tomorrow problem solved-“
“Regulus-“
“And if you really want to you can pay me back, at your own pace and then you won’t have to worry about it or feel guilty.”
Severus sighed, “I appreciate your offer Regulus, you know I do. But I can’t accept it. It’s just too much.”
“But-“
“Give me a year, one more year to try and do it on my own and if I can’t, then I’ll take you up on your offer.”
Regulus relented and Severus had been trying to find a way to make up the money but hadn’t been able to up until that point. He didn’t want to take money from Regulus. Regulus is his only friend, he didn’t want anything to complicate or interfere with that and money had a way of complicating most relationships.
He hadn’t found a solution yet, he was stressed and frustrated so he let Regulus take him out for one night at least.
They went out, got a few drinks, something to eat and talked for a while with Regulus informing him of the goings on of the house of Black. Narcissa and Lucius were trying for a baby, Bellatrix was more unhinged than ever and he couldn’t understand how Rodolphus put up with it. Sirius was still a controlling egotistical bastard but now he’s a controlling egotistical bastard working for the Auror department. Severus didn’t even want to think about what the mutt was doing with the power he’d been granted as an officer of magical law. He just silently thanked the fact that they typically tended to stay out of Knockturn Alley and hoped it would stay that way.
Over all it was a good night, until they passed by a corner in the brightly lit and very busy district and Severus ended up having a flier shoved right into his hands along with Regulus because of the enchanted lamp they walked under.
Bright silver letters on pitch black paper in elegant cursive letters.
Sugar Pot Delivery.
“What on earth?”
Regulus seemed to simply crumple up the flyer before tossing it in the nearest trashcan where it immediately incinerated itself.
“It’s ridiculous Sev.” Regulus said with an exasperated sigh, “It’s a prostitution ring masquerading as a dating service.”
“Really?”
The younger man shook his head, “They target the wealthy. Heirs, lords, business owners, politicians basically anyone with a big enough gold vault, offering them a dating experience unlike any other.”
“Exactly what kind of services do they offer?”
“You get a list of young singles looking for wealthy benefactors to sponsor them. Pick the young desperate single that you would like to have a liaison with and then send the service money, they put you in contact with this poor pathetic fool beginning a long pointless charade of correspondence filed with gold, gifts and erotic items.”
“Erotic items?”
“Pictures, memory vials sometimes even muggle videos and all sorts of other things.” Regulus shook his head, “The point is to court the young single you’ve chosen until they eventually agree to meet and you… escalate the relationship.”
Severus scoffed, “It is ridiculous.”
“I know.”
“It’s very clearly treading the line of legality in regards to prostitution. A bit surprising that they’re advertising it out in the open.”
“They’re not.” Severus arched a brow at the younger man and Regulus flushed ever so slightly, “You only got one because you were with me. I… I’m technically one of the heirs of Black. Every time I walk under one of those stupid lamps, I get one.”
“Is that how you know about this?”
Regulus almost paused, “Yes and no…” He sighed, “One of the representatives contacted me, asked me if I was interested in trying the services. Of course I promptly refused.”
“Of course.” Severus frowned, “How do they even find people willing to do this?”
“It’s on a voluntary basis from what I understand. You contact one of the representatives, they take pictures of you, fill out forms.”
“And then what, you become some wealthy egomaniac’s personal playtoy?”
“Essentially, again they’d have to court you first. Send gifts and money and whatnot, the bigger problem is that the young desperate singles don’t get a choice as to who their personal wealthy egomaniac is. The wealthy benefactor gets to see your picture but you don’t get to see theirs, not until you agree to officially meet.”
Severus’ expression soured. That sounds like a creepy recipe for disaster. But he still gave a slight shrug.
“It doesn’t seem, too terrible. Getting money and gifts in exchange for barely anything.”
“I’m not so sure about that Sev. I can’t imagine how greedy or desperate you’d have to be to be willing to agree to something like that.”
The answer is very desperate.
How desperate is very desperate?
Well… Severus was facing a possible eviction about a week later.
Technically speaking, Severus’ apprenticeship period was over, but since he hadn’t come up with the money he needed he was still living in the apartment above Madame Porter’s shop and apparently now, Madame Porter needed that space. He could still work for her, but he needed to find other living arrangements.
Unfortunately, the tiny pay that the woman gave him wasn’t enough to help him in that regard, not to mention he needed to save up money to actually get his damn mastery.
Severus was in a state of panic. Pacing around his apartment as he tried to figure out what to do when the flyer he got about a week ago, suddenly slipped from his jacket pocket by the door and then disintegrated right before his eyes.
Sugar Pot Delivery.
He just wanted to contact them to see how it worked… at first. At first he managed to convince himself that it was just curiosity and mental instability due to his life falling apart around him. At first, he didn’t think he’d actually go through with it.
But then the representative from Sugar Pots actually arrived at his little apartment. This tiny little woman with blonde hair and brown eyes and an entirely too bright smile on her face, wearing a purple muggle dress suit and clutching a brown clipboard against her chest.
“You must be Severus Snape! Welcome to the Sugar Pots family!”
“I haven’t agreed to-“
“Oh don’t worry, you will.” The girl’s smile turned into something twisted and vicious before leaning to the side to look into his tiny residence. “May I come in? There’s so much to discuss and I don’t think we should do any of that in the doorway.”
Severus hesitated before he stepped back and let her in, she stepped inside head turning this way and that before she settled into the worn brown couch to the side of what was the living room/dining room/kitchen/bedroom area.
“My my, what a cosy little space.” She said and Severus looked over to give her a sharp look, she didn’t even flinch, “Don’t worry. We’ll get you out of here in no time at all. We don’t get many male applicants you see and you have a decent physique.” Her eyes narrowed down at him, “Very intense eyes, yes I’ll definitely be able to find you a few sponsors.” She then looked down at her clipboard and conjured a muggle pen into her hand and started writing, “In fact there’s one sponsor I have in mind that was asking for someone with your exact features.”
Severus was a little-very he was very weirded out. But he still answered as he sat down in the seat opposite to hers, “Really? I find that hard to believe.”
“Oh you’d be surprised at just what people find attractive – quick question – are you open to any hardcore dominant submission play, specifically in the realm of sadomasochism and Daddy kink?”
Severus blinked, “I beg your pardon.”
The girl shook her head, “How about we just circle back to that one? Don’t worry I’ll get you on board.”
Severus took in a deep breath, “I’m sorry Ms?”
“Kathleen Brown. You can just call me Kathy.” She said with a smile, glancing up from her clipboard for a brief second before she went back to writing, “I’ll be your personal agent. Any and all transactions, appointments and such will be going through me so, there’s no need for any formalities. Sugar Pots operates like a family after all, you can think of me as… your very helpful older sister.”
“Right.” Severus said softly, “Ms Brown-“
“Kathy.”
“When I contacted your establishment I was hoping to get more information on it. I hadn’t really had any plans on signing up for it… at the moment I just-“
“Ah, I see.” Kathy said as she set her pen down on her clipboard and set it on her lap before looking up at the raven-haired man, “You’re nervous. Perfectly understandable for someone who’s new to the… industry. But I assure you Severus you have nothing to worry about.”
Severus frowned at just how easily this complete stranger used his name, “I don’t-“
“No really you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Sugar Pots Delivery operates under the strictest confidentiality. No personal information belonging to benefactors or participants is ever shared with the public, so you don’t have to worry about any unfortunate exposure or anything like that. And all participants are obligated to sign a nondisclosure agreement, complete with secrecy charms, so you don’t have to worry about anyone in our program blabbing about you or anyone you choose to associate with.”
Severus paused, “While that sounds very reassuring Ms Brown-“
“Kathy-“
“My more pressing concern is exactly what this program entails.”
“I thought that you might be a recruit but no… You must be a referral.” The blonde seemed to give him an indulgent smile, crossing one leg over the other even as she balanced the pen and clipboard on her lap, “Sugar Pots Delivery is a dating service. You see dating, courting and the like can be quite difficult for more… affluent members of our society. I’m sure you’re aware of how troublesome pureblood customs can be in the way of romantic relationships. You’re a half-blood, aren’t you Severus?”
Severus resisted the urge to shift uncomfortably, “I am.”
“Well, all the same I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. The courting rituals, marriage contracts, fidelity contracts. Meetings scheduled months in advance, in which you need to ask the great grandparent’s permission to share a simple cup of coffee.” She shook her head, “And unfortunately, these things aren’t even reserved for just pureblood families. Dating in the wizarding world can truly be an absolute nightmare. That’s where we come in. Sugar Pots Delivery, simplifies things we streamline them. We remove the stress of courting rituals and fidelity contracts and allow witches and wizards to simply mingle and connect. Find meaningful connections in a very discreet way that allows for participants to simply enjoy themselves and not have to worry about all those troublesome little details.”
Severus arched a brow, “But you only offer this service to the most affluent members of wizarding society.”
“Oh not at all Severus.” Kathy chided lightly, “After all, am I not sitting in your apartment right now with you?”
Severus bristled at that and she seemed to hold her hands up placatingly, “I’m only pointing out the obvious. I mean absolutely no offense. I did my research on you after you contacted the service. Excellent grades at Hogwarts, exceptional brewing and spell casting skills, just one step away from achieving your mastery in potions with the mastery board and several companies already lining up just waiting for you to be approved so they can have the chance to produce one of your potions..”
Severus blinked.
They are?
“You are an extraordinary individual, Severus. I know many so-called affluent individuals who would consider themselves lucky to have you as a romantic partner, but I’m sure you don’t believe that, do you? You don’t think that anyone would want you in any capacity romantic or otherwise.”
Severus didn’t say anything to that, just stared back at the woman. She didn’t seem like she was expecting him to respond.
“You see it is individuals just like yourself who are most suited to participate in our program. Rare jewels, diamonds in the rough just waiting for someone to discover and polish them. Not to smooth them out and make them conform, but to show off their brilliance and unique beauty. Individuals who under normal circumstances wouldn’t gain the attention of our wealthy benefactors simply because of societal pressures restricting them from interacting with these individuals in an open setting. That is what we do at Sugar Pots, Severus.” Kathy said looking him right in the eye, “We break down barriers and fight for love in all of its forms.”
“At reasonable price I’m sure.” Severus couldn’t help but snipe back only for the blonde to smirk.
“Well, nothing in this world comes for free Severus, not even love.” She giggled softly, “The way this works is simple. You enter the program, we put you in the official catalogue of prospective partners and once a benefactor shows an interest and asks for your company, I will be the one to put you in contact with them.”
“And how will you do that exactly?”
“Excellent question.” Kathy seemed to look around the small apartment one more time, “We might have to make a few changes for you. Glamours for the backgrounds and surroundings. But you won’t be meeting with them in person. We use mirror magic. You will converse with your benefactor in scheduled dates, from right here in the comfort of your own home and the they will do the same from theirs. You’ll talk, get to know one another, for about an hour in each session unless your benefactor asks for more time.”
Severus frowned, “And that’s all I’ll be expected to do? Just, talk?”
Kathy started to smile, “Well, they certainly can’t make you do anything you don’t want to do Severus. However,” She re-crossed her legs, still balancing the clipboard on her lap, “I would advise you to be comfortable, relaxed; open minded. You need to be open minded if you’re going to become a participant Severus. At least consider, whatever activity they might suggest that you partake in. This is supposed to be a fun exciting experience for both of you. And keep in mind that benefactors can quite generous with… open-minded individuals.”
Severus wanted to roll his eyes hard, “I’m sure.”
“After each session, benefactors usually send gifts for their chosen partners, sometimes monetary. Though most do prefer it when you ask for something in specific there are many who might want to surprise you. We of course have every gift checked over in case of any malicious intent, though it’s rarely necessary; your safety is an absolute priority as is the anonymity of the benefactors.”
“About that.” Severus started, “I was told that I wouldn’t know who my… benefactor was until we eventually meet.”
Kathy nodded, “Yes. The benefactors prefer it that way, in case the courting process doesn’t go quite as they’d hoped.”
In case they get bored and they never want to deal with you again. Severus added for her mentally he suppressed a sigh.
“Are any of these benefactors married?”
Severus could already guess the answer to that one, he just wanted to confirm just how screwed up this whole situation is.
As predicted Kathy smiled, “You know about arranged marriages don’t you Severus? Just because someone’s married doesn’t mean they’re happy about it. That doesn’t mean that we encourage infidelity, of course not. But there’s nothing wrong with making a friend. Sugar Pots simply gives them a… discreet outlet for their frustrations. A hobby if you will. ”
Hobby? That’s one way of putting it.
“And if we meet, what happens then?”
Kathy shrugged, “The courting process is about six weeks long, after which they can ask for an official face-to-face date. Now, you don’t have to agree to a date if you don’t want to Severus, you can choose to reject it. However only your benefactor will be the one who can completely terminate the relationship. If you go to the date and all goes well, you and your benefactor simply take it from there. You can continue the relationship in which case you leave the program or end it. After which you are more than welcome to return to the program.”
“Return?”
“Why yes. Many of our participants, honey pots as we like to call them.” Severus internally heaved, he almost told her to leave right there and then. “Return to the program after their relationships have run their course. It’s quite normal. There are many that even have multiple benefactors sponsoring them while they are in the program. Which is what I think would be an excellent option for you Severus. You can date… play the field, see what’s out there-“
“Make you money?”
Kathy laughed, “At Sugar Pots we fight for love Severus. But of course, love doesn’t pay the bills.”
Severus resisted the urge to drag his hair in frustration, “Exactly what is the average payment for participation?”
“Severus we do not call it payment, under any circumstances whatsoever.”
“So you don’t get charged with prostitution?”
“Prostitution is defined as sexual favours in exchange for monetary or material gain. Sugar Pots is a dating service.” She said with a steady gaze and Severus scoffed, the woman only rolled her eyes, “Gifts, Severus. What you receive from your benefactor is a gift.”
That time Severus did roll your eyes, “Fine, exactly what can I expect from my gifts?”
“Well that all depends on you. Your conduct for one.” She said pointedly and Severus almost outright laughed, “How many benefactors you have, how… open-minded you are in respects to home date activities, how much time you spend with each benefactor. On average though, the average honey pot with two or three benefactors, about four dates a week; usually makes about five hundred galleons a week.”
Severus’ eyes went wide, “Five hundred-“
“That’s excluding material gifts of course which can be anything from a bouquet of flowers to an entire manor, depending on your benefactor of course.”
“Of-Of course.” Severus was speechless. Kathy could tell if the way her smile spread just a little bit wider as she joined her hands together and set them on her clipboard.
“Am I to assume that you’re interested in becoming a honey pot, Severus?”
“I-“ He needs the money, “I’m interested in becoming a participant yes.”
“Excellent. We just need to fill in a few forms, I’ll head back to the office to get everything processed and if our selection committee approves your application, you’ll need to come down to the office for the photoshoot. We’ll need pictures for your profile in the catalogue, then you’ll sign the standard contract and you will officially be a part of the Sugar Pots family.”
Severus gave in to his instincts and dragged a hand through his hair. Ignoring the greasy strands as he looked down at the floor. His leg started jumping ever so slightly.
Is this the right decision?
He needs the money, Merlin knows just how desperately he needs the money, but…
Is he willing to go this far to get it?
Suddenly a hand went right over his own and he looked up to find Kathy with a soft smile.
“You’re unsure. But don’t be. This is the beginning of a new life for you. A better life. I’ve met many other’s just like you. I promise you you’ll be fine. And if everything works out, you won’t even need a benefactor in a few months. You’re just doing this for the mastery aren’t you?”
Severus swallowed hard, “Yes.”
“Then that is what you need to focus on. Getting your mastery. Once you have it, you can leave the program, no questions asked and restart your life however you want. This is the opportunity to get what you want. Don’t let it slip through your fingers.”
Something inside of him pulled tight at her words. His Slytherin ambition rearing its head and hissing about how right she was. He’s just doing this for the money. And really, his is this any different from any other so-called decent job that could potentially be just as embarrassing and demeaning and not even pay a fraction of what he gets here? There’s nothing he needs to feel guilty about. He needs the money in order to get what he wants and really, what kind of Slytherin would he be if he didn’t do whatever it takes to reach his ambition?
“I promise, I’ll be with you every step of the way. If you can’t trust me as a friend then trust me as a business partner. If you do well, the company does well… and I get the commission.” She smirked and Severus couldn’t help but snort, “Are you ready to start your new life, Severus?”
He swallowed again, “Yes, Ms Brown-“
“Kathy.” She said patting his hand only to cringe a bit when she pulled away, “Maybe a few treatments are in order before the photoshoot.”
Severus felt his cheeks warm in humiliation but Kathy didn’t seem to notice as she went back to her seat, “Sugar Pots has spa days for all honey pots so you don’t need to worry about paying for it. You need to look your absolute best for your pictures and during every home date. ” She was writing on her clipboard again, “Hair treatments, skin treatments for some of those potions stains, a few necessary additions to your wardrobe for your dates. If all goes well, your benefactors will be the ones taking care of all of this but for now, Sugar Pots is happy to foot the bill.”
“I-“
She looked up at him and smiled, “Like I said Severus, no need to be overwhelmed. I will be here every step of the way.”
That’s how it started, about five weeks ago.
After answering all of… Kathy’s thorough and rather invasive questions she left. Severus expected to have to wait at least a week for whatever selection committee was driving this insane operation to make a decision. Shockingly, Kathy showed up the very next day, ready to apparate to the company offices.
“You’ve been approved!”
She said with that bright smile still in place now in a lilac dress suit and briefly Severus wondered what on earth he’d gotten himself in for.
They apparated to the Sugar Pots Delivery offices at the edge of London, which was infuriatingly surrounded in protection wards that made it look like a sugar mill from the outside. Inside, it looked like your standard work office, with the exception of the pastel colour theme that seemed to make it look like an ice cream shop exploded all over the place in pale pinks, greens and bubble-gum blues. The hints of gold here and there thankfully made it seem less gaudy.
Kathy took him to her office where she explained their standard contract containing the thing’s they discussed along with the nondisclosure agreement complete with secrecy charms. Once all was signed, she quickly ushered him to the spa room where he was scrubbed from head to toe to start off with before being taken in for hair treatments and skin treatments for his hands just before almost every inch of hair save for his hair and eye brows and eye lashes was removed from his skin with long lasting hair removal potions. It had been utterly traumatic.
But after wards, even Severus could admit that he looked… better, decent almost and when he looked at his hair, no longer greasy he just-
It was always so hard, especially back when he was school. Without the money to properly take care of himself there was only so much he could do for his hair and with potions having an added effect Severus developed a severe love hate relationship with it. He loved it because it made him feel safe and protected, he always felt like he’d be naked without it. But then again, his hair also seemed to draw attention to him, made him feel more ugly and useless than he already was.
But now, when Severus saw how different it was; clean and smooth and so soft. He almost started crying right there in the chair. A thick black curtain hiding him just the way he’d always hoped it would.
Next came the pictures, which were a whole different kind of trauma entirely.
“Severus is exceedingly intelligent, a true scholar. A future potions master. That’s the look we need to be going for him.” Kathy said as she spoke to the stylist, “Think sexy librarian. Strict, disciplined but with just the slightest hint of vulnerability, looking for someone to make them break the rules, bring out their inner vixen.”
Severus rolled his eyes, “Sweet Salazar.”
“Salazar?” the brunette next to Kathy said with a thoughtful look on her face, “He went to Hogwarts, right? We should play up to that, the whole sexy student barely legal thing. He’s got the look to pull it off.”
“What-“
“Yes, the shy bookworm type! I like how you think Alison.”
“You can’t be serious.” Severus said and Kathy seemed to pause before giving a nod.
“He’s right.” She then looked over to his stylist, “We’ll do both, it’ll be good to get a little variety for his portfolio.”
Yes, traumatic.
So traumatic in fact he hadn’t even wanted to see his so-called portfolio or any of his pictures once they were finished, although Kathy insisted that they looked stunning. Severus just kept remembering how they had him posed in front of a bookshelf and over a table and spread out over a desk in a room that looked disturbingly similar to the classrooms they had in the dungeons at Hogwarts.
No.
He doesn’t need to see the pictures.
He left Sugar Pots that afternoon thoroughly regretting his desperate decision and already thrown into a bout of anxiety and regret only for Kathy to send him an owl just two days later. They put his portfolio in the catalogue and he already had a benefactor interested in meeting him.
Severus had been shocked.
They must have done some serious magic on those pictures to make him look good enough to get such a quick response.
That day, Kathy came over with his personal mirror. The one he’d be using to chat with his benefactor and helped him set it up in front of his couch/bed. Severus insisted on not having anything extravagant for the meeting so Kathy glamoured the sofa bed into a more appealing looking bed-bed with green and black sheets. Alison came over to help him freshen up his hair and they decided to put him in simple black robes for the date. Apparently, his benefactor responded to that whole sexually repressed Librarian bit. they both left about an hour before his date with Kathy giving him a few tips on how to handle the whole thing.
“It’s the first date, don’t worry about him asking you to do anything outrageous right off the bat. They normally don’t do that. Just relax, stay calm and try to enjoy yourself. Remember, this is a date for you as well.”
By the time his mirror started to glow Severus’ nerves were shot. But he didn’t show it. Just kept his breathing steady, his posture straight and his face absolutely composed as the glass surface stopped glowing and he saw his benefactor.
Or, he didn’t really see him.
As Kathy explained, the mirror image was barely more than a dark silhouette of someone in a chair in front of the mirror. Severus could just barely make out shaggy head if hair down to the man’s shoulders at least.
“Severus.”
Severus blinked, not because of the man’s voice. Kathy told him that that too was altered to insure his benefactor’s anonymity. It’s the way the man said it, not like a greeting but like a simple confirmation.
Severus paused and cleared his throat, “Yes, my name is Severus Snape. Mr Deville?”
A low chuckle, “Yes.”
“A pleasure to meet you.”
“Yes.” Was all the man said and Severus was suddenly at a loss for what to do. Kathy said to play it safe, let his benefactor take the lead. But he wasn’t saying or doing anything.
“Is there anything you’d like to ask me, Mr Deville?”
“You look… I like your hair.”
“I… thank you.” Severus didn’t know what else to say, “Unfortunately I can’t say the same for you.”
The man actually laughed at that one, “Oh I’m sure you’d be pleased with me if you saw me.”
“Is that so?”
“I’m told I’m quite handsome despite my… eccentricities.”
“Oh?” Severus arched a brow at the man, “And what eccentricities are those?”
“Would you really like to know?”
“Yes.” Severus said simply and the man seemed to move a bit in his seat.
“They call me insane.”
“Are you insane?”
“That all depends on your definition of sanity. Personally I don’t see the problem, neither does my wife.”
Severus blinked again, “You’re married?”
“Is that a problem for you?”
“It’s not a problem for your wife that you’re speaking with me, under the circumstances?”
“I have my vices and she has hers. We understand one another in that way.”
“Then I suppose, it’s not a problem for me either.”
“Good.”
The first date was interesting.
Mr Deville was interesting. A bit peculiar in his mannerisms, an odd sense of humour but Severus was relieved to find that he didn’t hate it.
After the date Kathy called him to tell him that he would soon be receiving his first gift of a hundred galleons, very good for his first date. Severus just felt relieved that he’d be able to afford rent in a different place before the end of the week when Madam Porter wants him out.
Kathy informed him that Mr Deville had him scheduled for another date in two weeks. Severus figured that would give him enough time to move to his new apartment. One that was thankfully in better shape than the one above the apocathery and also had an actual bedroom.
He’d just gotten himself moved in when Kathy informed him of another benefactor.
“Remember, the one I told you about. The one who asked for someone with your features.” The blonde said impatiently as she cast the glamours around Severus while Alison touched up his hair. He was in a school uniform this time. Black robes green and silver tie and all. After graduating, Severus burned his school clothes, he didn’t want any more reminders of his school days. Needless to say, he wasn’t happy about wearing a brand new one. They’re going for the sexy student this time.
Last time you got a hundred galleons. Last time you got a hundred galleons.
He just kept that one thought going over and over in his head.
“I remember.”
“Yes well, he’s a loyal client. He’s sponsoring about five honey pots as is. Most of them like him, they say he’s charming with a good sense of humour. A bit… kinky but, never outright depraved.”
“Five honey pots and he wants another one on top of that?” Alison asked and Severus scoffed.
“Purebloods with too much money.”
“Severus.” Kathy scolded as she shook her head, “Anyway, he called me up at two in the morning. Apparently, he was out of town for some reason and didn’t get the chance to take a look at the updated catalogue until last night. He was an absolute mess asking when you’d been added to the list and why I didn’t immediately inform him.”
Severus frowned, “What? Why?”
“Maybe he knows you.” Alison supplied and Severus paled.
There are very few people that know him that he didn’t go to school with.
Oh merlin no-
“I doubt it, like I said he was looking for someone with Severus’ features not him in specific. Most of his honey pots have similar features; dark hair, pale skin. A mix of men and women. I think he just has a type.” Severus let out a soft sigh. Kathy put her hands on her hips once the glamours were complete, “He insisted on getting a date as soon as possible. He’s even paying double the connection fee.”
Alison blinked, “Really? That’s a good sign.”
“Hopefully it is.” Kathy then looked at Severus, “Just like last time Severus. Relax, enjoy yourself, everything will be fine.”
Like before Kathy and Alison left and an hour later the mirror began to glow. Just like before Severus couldn’t make out much. Just a dark seated silhouette also with shaggy hair.
It was silent for an entire minute. His new benefactor didn’t say a word, Severus started to frown.
“Mr White?”
No response.
“Is something wrong? Can you hear me?”
“Snape.”
There was something odd in the other’s tone. Severus frowned.
“What-“
“Bloody hell, just look at you.”
“What?”
“Get up.”
Severus blinked, “Pardon me?”
“I said get up. I want to get a look at you so get up.”
Severus took in a deep breath. He got up and turned around. When he was facing the mirror again the man hadn’t moved an inch.
“Satisfied?”
“Take off your clothes.”
Severus resisted the urge to gape, “My clothes?”
“Yeah.”
“I don’t-“
“You’re supposed to do what I want you to do Snape, and I want you to take off your clothes. So take them off.”
A spark of defiance lit up in Severus, “I can also choose to refuse any request Mr White.”
“We both know you won’t do that. Just like we both know why you’re here, you need the money so take off your clothes.”
Severus’ jaw clenched but he didn’t bother trying to deny it, he reached up to his tie-
“Slower.”
“Slower?”
“Yeah, give us a show Sev.” He drawled as he sat back in his seat, seeming to get comfortable, “Show me how badly you need me.”
“You mean your money?”
“Same difference.”
Severus glared hard, the Mr White had the nerve to chuckle at that. “Don’t give me that look. It’s way too soon for that. Now take off your clothes, nice and slow.”
Now, if Severus was being honest, he’d expected this much from the Sugar Pots experience. He expected to be treated like a piece of meat that exists solely for the pleasure of some egotistical rich bastard. But after his date with Mr Deville he’d had hopes that it wouldn’t be so bad.
Mr White unfortunately brought him right back down to earth.
It was an absolute train wreck. So much so that Severus reached out and ended the date about five minutes later.
Like last time Kathy contacted him through the mirror an hour later.
Severus was fuming.
“Severus, you did so well! I-“
“He’s an absolute pig!” Severus growled and Kathy blinked.
“What?”
“MrWhite. The utter bastard-“
“Whoa, Severus what happened?”
Severus took a deep breath, “First he asked – no – demanded that I take my clothes off, then he wanted me to get on the bed and beg for him to do all sorts of vile disgusting things to me and then he had the nerve to tell me to… pleasure myself in front of him.”
“Really? On the first date?”
“Yes on the first bloody date.”
“Did you do it?”
“No. I took my clothes off but after his demands for me to effectively demean myself in front of him, I told him exactly where he could stuff his bloody money.”
Kathy was silent for a moment, “So you didn’t do it?”
Severus looked at her incredulously, “No, I didn’t.”
“But, Severus. He paid for the connection fee; double the full price, with an additional gift for you.”
“I don’t care if he left me an entire bloody vault! I-“
“No, Severus you don’t understand.” Kathy interrupted, “Usually if a honey pot refuses to finish the date, the benefactor doesn’t have to pay for the connection fee or give any type of gift. But he paid and sent a gift.”
Severus frowned anger subsiding in confusion, “How much?”
“Three hundred galleons.”
“Three hundred-“
“With a request for a second date as soon as next week. That’s why I thought things went well. He told me he wanted to see you again as soon as possible, even asked to extend the date time and requested provisions for a few extra gifts as well.”
Severus frowned, “He did?”
“Yes, but… he told you to get undressed and tried to force you to masturbate in front of him.” Kathy sounded equally confused, “None of the other honey pots said anything like that about Mr White. They always speak so highly of him. How he’s charming and funny and, he’s a bit persistent but never tried to force any of them to do anything they didn’t want and he’s-“
“Generous? I’m sure none of that praise has anything to do with him giving three hundred galleon gifts.” Severus said now feeling a bit calmer as he sat down on the bed. Kathy sighed.
“No, he isn’t usually quite this… generous. So odd.”
Severus shook his head, “I don’t want to see him again.”
“Severus, you’re under contract. He’s the only one who can terminate connection at this point, you know that. You don’t have to do anything he asks in the date but you do have to show for them. Those are the rules.”
“But-“
“Those are the rules.”
Severus sighed in frustration when Kathy spoke again.
“Although, I did have to refuse one request he made.”
“Which was?”
Kathy’s lips pursed for a brief moment, “He asked if you had any other benefactors, I told him that I wasn’t at liberty to disclose that information and; then he asked if I could make sure that he was your only benefactor.”
“What?”
“So strange.” The blonde shook his head, “I told him that you could have as many benefactors as you want and I have no right to try and limit you. He seemed quite upset about that.”
Severus frowned and then just let out a sigh, “I’m not surprised. Of course, he’d be an absolute control freak on top of being an absolute wretch of a human being. Are you sure there’s nothing I can do so I never have to deal with him again?”
“I’m afraid not.” Kathy sighed, “No, really he isn’t usually like this. I don’t… I’ll talk to him, alright? I’ll make it clear that his conduct was inexcusable and if he plans on continuing with your courtship then his behaviour needs to improve.”
“And that will help how?”
“Trust me it will, I promise Severus I’ll take care of it.”
“Thank you… Kathy.”
The blonde smiled, “No need to thank me. It’s my job, can’t have benefactors scaring off my honey pots. Get some sleep. I promise, I’ll deal with Mr White. Goodnight Severus.”
“Goodnight.”
The mirror went back to its usual gleaming finish and Severus let out a deep breath as he fell back on the bed. He paused when he noticed the black robes that he still had on the side of the bed and-
“I want to watch you cum for me Snape, while you beg me to fill your mouth and pump your stomach full of my seed.”
Severus felt an involuntary shiver run down his spine and he cringed in disgust before he quickly sat up and pushed himself off the bed.
Filthy.
He needs a shower.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
“My conduct was inappropriate? What’s that even mean?”
Kathy sighed as she looked back into the mirror, “It means that Severus wasn’t comfortable committing the acts that you requested from him. And from what he told me about what you requested, I can’t blame him.”
“Oh come on, I’ve said the same kind of thing to the others and they didn’t mind. He can’t be that much of a prude. Unless,” the man in the mirror paused and then something gleamed in his eyes as he sat forward a bit in his chair. “Is he a virgin?”
Kathy paused, “That’s a question that you’re going to need to ask Severus yourself.”
He huffed as he fell back in his chair, “So, he doesn’t mind seeing me then?”
“No actually he does. He was extremely upset Mr White.”
“Kat, I told you not to call me that-“
“It was the very first date and Severus hasn’t been with Sugar Pots Delivery for very long. You can’t expect him to be so willing after just meeting you.”
“It’s not that big a deal and if this really is his first time with… certain things, I mean.” The man started to grin, “He’ll need someone to help get him settled in right? So he’s more comfortable. You know all the others love me. I’d be more than happy to help break him in, just say the word and we can do the actual date tomorrow.”
Kathy gave him a dull look, “Courtship takes six weeks at the minimum Mr White you know that.”
The man rolled his eyes, “Whatever, I still think this is an overreaction. There was nothing inappropriate, all I wanted was to get a little… taste of what I’ll be getting later anyway.”
“Yes, well, at this point Severus is ready to end the entire courtship process right now.”
“He can’t do that can he?”
“No,” Kathy let out a sigh, “But I can.”
“What?”
“Mr White you are a loyal client who’s been with Sugar Pots for a very long time. Most of the honey pots who have had you as a benefactor speak very highly of you and ordinarily I would have no reason to resort to such drastic measures however… Severus was extremely upset and therefore I must warn you; if this behaviour continues, if you make him uncomfortable and try to force him to do anything else I will have you removed from the Sugar Pots Client list on the grounds of sexual harassment of a participant.”
The man gaped, “You can’t be serious?!”
“I am.”
“Because of Snape?! I didn’t even do anything that bad it was just a joke, barely more than a prank.”
“At Sugar Pots we don’t find pranks like that in the least bit funny Mr White.” Kathy said sternly, “Now, do I have your word? You won’t try to force Severus to do anything else, you will behave yourself and treat this as a proper courtship should be treated.”
“Proper courtship. Most of the others would’ve been happy to do what I wanted, but of course Snape-“ The man shook his head, jaw clenching for a moment before he finally took in a deep breath and let it out, “Fine. If the little miss really needs to get his fucking knickers in such a twist-”
“The alternative solution Mr White; would be for you to terminate the connection with Severus. That way, you won’t have to worry about any knickers getting twisted in any way, shape or form.”
He seemed to pause, staring back at the blonde in silence as his jaw seemed to work in his mouth, teeth grinding ever so slightly. “No… I promise, I’ll behave.”
“Good.” Kathy let out a sigh only to pause when the man spoke again.
“Was he really that upset about it?”
“He was less upset and more enraged.” To her utter surprise, the man’s lips started to twitch into a smirk.
“Really? Still so easy.”
“Excuse me?”
“Nothing.” He shook his head, “So when’s my next date with Snape?”
“I still need to move a few things around, you do have five other honey pots Mr White.”
“Yeah, about that. I was thinking that maybe I could drop a few of them. Melinda and Afton.”
Kathy blinked, “What-why? Did something happen during your last-“
“No no, they’re great. Melinda’s gorgeous and Afton’s fun and all, but I think I’d like to have a bit more time with Snape. You know, give him a better impression of me. I don’t think I’ll manage with so many partners on my card as is. Plus you know how busy work keeps me.”
“Oh, well. If that’s what you want then yes, I’ll make the arrangements.”
“Brilliant.” The man smiled, Kathy frowned.
“Mr White-“
“Really Kat, I told you not to call me that.”
She sighed but couldn’t help but smile, “Sirius. Do you mind if I ask exactly what the fascination with Severus is? You’re not usually this interested in any of the other honey pots so I was wondering what it is about him that has you so intrigued.”
“Oh its nothing all that special.” Sirius said as he sat back in his seat, stormy grey eyes gleaming as he combed a hand through shaggy raven hair, “It’s more that he exists really.”
“What does that mean?”
“You know, I never really understood that myself at first but I think… I might be starting to.” He let out a scoff, “So, when’s my next date with Sev?”
“Uhm, I think-“
“As soon as possible Kat. I’ll pay double again, if I need to.”
Kathy blinked, before looking over to the date book beside her and flipping the nearest page, “Friday night, seven o’clock. Unless you already have other plans, then-“
“No, that’s perfect. You’ll arrange the extra gifts that we spoke about?”
“Yes… but I don’t think Severus-“
“No, I don’t need him to wear any of it. I just want him to have it for now. If he just so happens to wear them himself then he can, you know, while he thinks of me. Not for anyone else, I want you to make that clear to him.”
Kathy sighed, “Sirius-“
“I wouldn’t ask him to wear anything he got from other benefactors all I’m asking is for him to make sure he does the same for me.”
“Fine.”
Sirius nodded, “Again, he doesn’t have to wear any of it for our next date. He can show me once he’s ready. I’m not in a rush.”
“Really?”
“Oh yes.” Sirius’ lips split open into a large toothy grin, “The way I see it, he’s always been mine. It’s all just a matter of time.”
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
“Why can’t you stay?”
“I’m busy, Remus.”
Remus gave him a very dull look from across the booth in the pub, “You have another date?”
Sirius grinned, “Yup. This one’s something really special too Moony.”
“So special that you can’t reschedule?”
“No,” Sirius said with a roll of his eyes as he lifted his mug to take a swig of beer, “I’m not cancelling my date just because Prongs is sad.”
Remus rolled his own eyes before looking over to James who sat beside him. He was lying on the table with his head on his arms, staring at the glass mug in front of him, watching as the little bubbles behind the glass floated up to the top. Sirius scoffed.
“Look, I hate to say I told you so mate but-“
“Then don’t say it.” James huffed, giving the animagus a slight glare through his glasses which sat skew over his nose.
Remus sighed, “I don’t understand James. I thought you said Lily made you happy.”
“She does… she did. I-“ James turned his head to bury his face in his arms. “I don’t know what’s wrong.”
“Do you still love her?”
James looked up, “Yes?”
Sirius scoffed, “If that doesn’t sound like true love, then I don’t know what does.”
Remus glared at his friend before shaking his head, “James-“
“No, I love Lily. I do. I care about her, it’s just…” James reached out to touch the mug before him and drew a line along the perspiration, “Things have been different since graduation. They’re just… off somehow. I don’t know what it is.”
“James, you’re both different people now. None of us are children anymore, well, most of us anyway.” Remus said giving Sirius a pointed look, who just flipped him off in return, “My point is, that things were bound to be different. But just because they’re different doesn’t mean they’re bad.”
James sighed, “You don’t get it.”
“I get it.”
They both looked up to see Sirius reach for his jacket.
“You do?”
“Yeah, asking her to marry you right after graduating was a bad idea. This is what you get for not listening to me.”
“Piss off Padfoot.”
“Sirius, really-“
“Hm!” Sirius held his free hand out as he finished his drink with the other before setting the glass mug back down, “I’ve said everything I can say for now. If I don’t leave, I’ll be late for my date.”
James rolled his eyes and slumped back down on the table, Remus sighed. “I hope they’re worth it Padfoot.”
“Oh I don’t know if he’s worth it Moony, but I’m willing to find out.”
“Really?”
“Feisty, just a little bit dangerous. I think he’ll be an interesting shag if nothing else-“
“Just piss off already you fucking slag. I hope you finally catch a genital curse.” James called out and it was Sirius’ turn to roll his eyes.
“I’ll come over and you can tell me about your not-problems with Lily tomorrow. I promise.” With that he turned around and left the pub. Remus looked over to James to find him watching bubbles again.
“Did something happen with Lily, James?”
“No. Everything’s fine. She’s fine, I’m fine.”
“Then what-“
“I don’t know!” James almost whined, “It’s just… it’s been three years and I-“
“You what?”
“Moony I’m bored.”
Remus blinked, “Bored?”
“I don’t know what it is. I’ve always wanted to get married, you know that. I want to have a wife and kids and have someone waiting for me at home with dinner and we’ll talk about my day and hers and just the whole thing.”
“Yes, I know.”
“But, it’s been three years… I got exactly what I wanted and it’s not like I hate being married because I don’t it’s just… something feels off. Like something was there before and now it just isn’t anymore. It’s felt off for years and I thought I just needed to get settled, finish training and start working and it’ll be fine but it’s not.”
“James-“
“And you know Lily is anything but boring. She’s smart and beautiful and she still doesn’t let me get away with anything. But it just… it feels different somehow. Something’s missing and I don’t know what it is. I just know that I’m bored.” James let out a heavy sigh as he sat up a bit and picked up his mug to take a sip, “We started talking about trying for a baby a few weeks ago.”
“Really?” Remus paused, “Well, that’s-“
“It’s bad.”
“It is?”
“When I think about having a baby with her, bringing a child into this it feels… wrong. But then I think maybe that’s what we need. Maybe a baby will help everything feel right because then the picture will be complete right? Maybe that’s what’s wrong, maybe that’s what I need.”
“Maybe but-“ Remus frowned, “I don’t know if that’s a good reason to have a child James.”
“I thought you’d say that.” James sighed, “Maybe Padfoot’s right, maybe I did get married too young.”
“While I don’t entirely disagree with Sirius on that, I don’t think you need to put too much stake into any of his relationship advice.” Remus scoffed as he reached out for his own drink, “Padfoot’s relationships have never been… relationships, have they?”
“I guess you’ve got a point there.”
“Have you talked to Lily about this?”
“And say what? I don’t know what’s wrong with our marriage, but I feel like something’s wrong and I’ve always felt like something was wrong, but I married you anyway and now I’m not sure if having a child with you is a good idea, even though I’ve told you that I wanted a child multiple times and I’m just so fucking bored Lil’s. Any thoughts?”
Remus smiled, “Well, you don’t have to say it like that.”
James shook his head before dragging a hand over his face, “I don’t know what to do. The only reason I’ve been O.K with everything is because of work. You know, the raids and the missions… fancy that, Death Eaters are actually helping my marriage.”
“James.” Remus scolded lightly, “But time apart doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Lily’s off to see her parents for the week, right? Maybe now’s a good time for you to think about what you want without worrying about her for a bit.”
“And then what?”
Remus huffed, “I don’t know, but the time apart should be good for you. One way or another.”
“Maybe.”
Remus watched the other for a moment as he kept drawing lines on the side of his mug, “I’m just not sure what could have changed so much between then and now. Maybe it’s because of Hogwarts? Everything was different in school.”
James frowned, “Things were different. Peter was still around for one thing.”
“You lot were always bullying Snape for another.”
James looked up, “It wasn’t bullying, Moony. Don’t be so dramatic. Besides Snape deserved it for being an evil, know it all prat.”
Remus paused, “I’m not so sure about that.”
“You know, I keep waiting for his name to show up in some of the investigations we’ve been doing? Last week we got news about a brewer Voldemort and his little followers were keeping around. They said he was a half-blood too.”
“You think it was Snape?”
James scoffed, “I know it wasn’t. The potions we found in one of the warehouses, were shoddy at best. Merlin, even I could brew dreamless sleep better than that. It couldn’t have been Snape.” Then he shook his head, “There’s been nothing on him. I don’t think he actually ever joined.”
“He didn’t.” Remus said absently and James looked up.
“How can you be so sure?”
Remus paused, almost like he just remembered who he was talking to before letting out a heavy sigh. “It’s more of a hunch really.”
“A hunch?”
“Well, Sirius and Regulus are always fighting over Snape. I heard a few weeks ago Regulus kicked Padfoot out because he went out with Snape and didn’t come back till two in the morning. Sirius lost it and Regulus told him to mind his own business.”
“Regulus is still hanging around Snape?” James sat up, “Why didn’t I know about this?”
“Why would you want to? I thought you’d just be happy that Snape wasn’t around Lily or even trying to be around her.”
“I… of course I’m happy the greasy git isn’t around her, I just… if Padfoot’s having problems with him then I don’t see why I shouldn’t know about it.”
Remus shook his head, “It’s more of an issue with Sirius and his brother anyway James. You know what Padfoot is like or used to be like with Snape, he hates the idea of Regulus spending time with him.”
James paused, “Well, how often is he around Snape?”
Remus shrugged as he took another sip from his mug, “Every other weekend from what I can tell. It drives Sirius absolutely mad, he hates it.”
James looked at his own mug, his fingers tapping briefly against the table, “Does he go over to Grimmauld place?”
“No, Regulus goes out and meets him, wherever Snape is now.”
“Right… what do they do when they go out?”
“I-“ Remus looked up at James and frowned, “Why do you care?”
“I don’t, but if Snape is in with the Death Eaters then this would be a good opportunity to get some leads, right?”
“He’s not a Death Eater, he works in some potions shop. Not sure where. And I don’t know about what they do when they’re out, I just know that Padfoot is always complaining about them when they do. He’s always sober and smells just like Snape when he comes home, if they’re not getting sloshed then what are they doing Moony?” Remus let out a scoff.
“Smells like Snape?”
“He goes sniffing about the house as Padfoot sometimes.”
James was frowning, glaring down at his mug before he spoke, “That’s a fair question though.”
“James, please don’t start.”
“Start with what?”
“We’ve finished school, Snape isn’t in our lives anymore and despite whatever Padfoot believes I doubt that he’s up to anything. Leave it alone. I would’ve thought that you’d be over your obsession with Snape by now.”
“I wasn’t obsessed!”
“Sure. It doesn’t even matter what Snape is up to. You need to be focusing on Lily remember?”
James blinked and then sank back into his seat, “Yeah, yeah I remember.”
“You have a whole week to think things through, don’t waste that time not-obsessing over Snape of all people.” Remus said as he picked up his mug again, “We both know that you’re probably the last person on his mind right now.”
“Right.” James said still glaring at his mug before he finally picked it up and brought it to his lips.
Despite Remus’ warnings, when James got home that night. His head was filled with nothing and no one other than Snape.
The house was empty, he was all alone and he hadn’t really thought about Snape in a while. Or at least, he hadn’t allowed himself to think about him, not unless he was at work and they were discussing suspects for potential Death Eaters.
What he said to Remus at the pub was true, he really did expect to see Snape’s name pop up in one of the investigations that he’d been doing. He expected to hear about the Slytherin git either being arrested for some horrifying crime or under investigations for some dark evil potion he made. Some terrible poison or elixir that he was selling to the highest bidder. But there was nothing.
For a while he’d even wondered if maybe Snape was dead. It would make sense with the crowd that he used to run with in school. But somehow James just knew he wasn’t. So he kept an eye out for new wanted criminals and suspected followers of Voldemort but Snape’s name never came up.
Until now.
James sighed as he walked into the study and tossed his jacket down onto one of the vacant chairs near his desk. He walked over to the tumbler of whiskey in the corner and poured himself one last drink for the night. He just needed one more, one more to help him sleep.
Snape is still alive. Snape is still around. Snape is alive and around Regulus, Sirius; little brother.
Merlin, hearing that information for the first time had been so odd.
It’s been three years since graduation, he hasn’t seen Snape once and really it’s not like he wanted to see Snape. It’s just so odd knowing that he was around. The last time he saw Snape was at the graduation feast.
Sirius was sitting on his left while Lily sat next to him on his right. He had his arm around her. The energy around them was loud and lively, how could it not be, they were graduating after all. Everyone was anxious, happy, a little sad but mostly excited to start the next chapter of their lives.
He leaned over to press a kiss on Lily’s cheek, she smiled that sweet smile with those emerald eyes almost glowing in the bright light from the lamps that floated around the room. Gleaming the same way that her engagement ring did in that same light. She leaned up to his ear to whisper something, James honestly can’t remember what. He just remembers feeling her breath against the side of his face. He remembers how he suddenly caught sight of Snape across the room at the Slytherin table. But Snape wasn’t looking anywhere in his direction.
He sat beside Regulus, near the furthest end of the table talking, whispering quietly as they always did when Regulus suddenly got up nodding his head towards the doors. Snape got up as well. They left the hall. James remembers tracking them as they did. He remembers looking over to Sirius, wanting to draw the animagus’ attention to the sight of his brother slipping off somewhere with Snape.
But Sirius was locked in conversation with Frank and Remus and there was only so much James could do without alerting Lily as well. She still didn’t know that he was still pranking Snape. Anytime any trouble with the Slytherin came up he’d just blame it on Sirius and Padfoot seemed more than happy to take the blame where Snivellus was concerned.
Snape left the hall with Regulus, James wanted to say something but-
“Are you even listening to me?”
James blinked and looked down when he realised that Lily had spoken. The redhead was frowning at him, eyes narrowed in slight annoyance. James just gave her a charming smile.
“Of course I am, but just in case I forgot a few details, remind me again?”
Lily scoffed and rolled her eyes, “Tonight’s party. A few of the girls wanted to make sure I’d have time for them so I won’t be able to entertain you all night.”
James gave a pout, “The girls can’t wait their turn?”
“No, but you can. Besides, we have the rest of our lives to be together.”
Something about her words… something in his chest tugged softly, oddly. Twisting in a way that made James swallow hard before he forced the feeling down and gave a smile.
“Right, the rest of our lives.” She kissed him on the cheek and then turned back to Alice who sat beside her. James’ eyes went up to the doors again. Too late to tell Padfoot now. Even if he did, they might be halfway back to Slytherin by now. What are they even doing together? Most of the school is in the hall, what would they be doing in the dungeons all alone?
These thoughts just kept coming back to him over and over again. He couldn’t enjoy the party that night and with Lily elsewhere he couldn’t really focus on her either.
The next day they left Hogwarts on the train, same as that very first time in first year. This time Lily sat with him Sirius, Remus and Peter. Snape was nowhere in sight.
It’s been years since he’s really let himself think about Snape too long and now; he finds out that Snape is still around Regulus. Staying out till the early hours of the morning, not getting drunk but doing who knows what.
Padfoot’s right to be so upset. It’s all entirely too suspicious.
Just as James settled into the couch in front of the fireplace that sparked with fire the second he sat down, he remembered Remus’ other words.
“You need to be focusing on Lily remember?”
Lily. Yes, he needs to focus on her and why things with her suddenly feel so different. Remus was right, James is probably the absolute last thing on Snape’s mind right now.
He couldn’t help but frown at the thought – But Lily, focus on Lily.
But James was tired and he didn’t want to think about that right now. He took a sip of whiskey, letting out a soft gasp as the alcohol burned down his throat in the best way only for his eyes to fall on the coffee table. His mail he realised.
The elves must have left it there. James reached out to shuffle through the post. A letter from work, one from Gringotts about the latest withdrawal from his vault, another from the broom company about the new broom he got that was probably the reason for the letter from Gringotts and then-
James rolled his eyes hard and let out a sigh of frustration.
Sugar Pots Delivery.
Bloody hell, those people don’t give up do they. No matter how many times James has made it clear that he didn’t want to use their services since he’s absolutely a married man they apparently weren’t getting the message. It’s a miracle Lily hasn’t picked up one of the letters or the stupid catalogue yet. then again, they were charmed to incinerate the second someone other than the intended recipient opened them so maybe she had.
No way, she’d definitely ask why the letters were suddenly destroying themselves the second she opened them. All the same, James had no interest in partaking in this stupid company’s so-called benefits. It’s through the magic of legality that the Auror department hasn’t been able to shut them down yet.
Technically, it didn’t qualify as a brothel or prostitution syndicate. They weren’t explicitly telling anyone to have sex for money or offer money in exchange for sex. There wasn’t any physical contact between the so called benefactors and their honey pots as they called them in the first few weeks and once they actually met, they had effectively completed all of the necessary requirements needed in order to legally be referred to as a courtship. So from that point, by wizarding law, they could screw like rabbits and any amount of money could be given without even drawing the slightest bit of attention. And since each and every single honey pot and benefactor that they’d interviewed swore up and down that it really was a dating service and not just a prostitution group. There wasn’t much the ministry could do about it.
They weren’t even afraid of going after Aurors in order to lure in new customers to fill their bottom line they were so untouchable. All the letters and catalogues James got just proved that.
Sirius was supposed to be taking on the case. Not on a fulltime basis of course, just enough to try and find any weak points in their system so they can finally be shut down. Though their superiors made it clear that Sugar Pots wasn’t a priority case. They didn’t really seem to be hurting anyone and with the Death Eater threat they just had bigger things to worry about.
He hasn’t really checked in with Padfoot to see if he’d been doing any work on it at all.
All the same. James took the catalogue and threw it into the fire where it burst into flames. Marriage issues or no, he wouldn’t sink so low as to have some sort of expensive affair.
Hopefully Sugar Pots will get the hint eventually.