“Harry.”
…
“Pup.” Severus said more firmly and the boy lying beside him nodded his head.
“Yes Papa?”
“It’s getting late. You should get ready for bed.”
Harry shook his head still not looking at his father, “Not yet.”
“And why not?”
The boy then lifted his head from Severus’ stomach, away from the round bulge that protruded from his stomach covered in the soft blue material of his night shirt. Dark onyx eyes looked up at him, his lips pulled into a slight pout and that unruly mop of hair moved about furiously as Harry shook his head.
“I’m not tired.”
“Not yet, but in a bit you’ll be exhausted.”
“But” Harry frowned, “But Sissy might wake up again, I want to be here if she does.”
Severus scoffed almost lifting a hand to caress his stomach. The little monster growing in there had been tumbling about all day and every time that Severus sat down Harry would hop up unto the couch beside him and listen, waiting to feel the baby kick and move again. Severus was relieved.
They admittedly spoiled Harry just a bit, showered him with undivided attention. He’d been sure that the arrival of a new sibling would have him pouting for days and throwing all sorts of tantrums which would only get worse once the child was actually born. Instead the boy seemed insatiably excited at the prospect of having a new sibling. Time around the Weasley children must have helped with that. Harry very obviously looked up to Bill and Charlie, he almost seemed to envy Ron for having so many siblings. Now he gets to be a big brother too.
“Harry, Sissy won’t be here for another two months but once she gets here, you’ll be able to look at her all you want. And once she gets older, you’ll be able to play all the games you like, but right now it’s bedtime. Daddy should be back soon to tuck you in.”
“But-“
“Don’t even think about arguing with me. Run along.”
Harry huffed but still moved to get up, “O.K.”
“I already put your sleep clothes on the bed and make sure you ask if you need anything.”
“Yes Papa.” He called back somewhat sullenly and Severus shook his head as he picked up the book he’d set down earlier. Less than a minute later he heard the door open in the distance and something inside the raven went lax as he sank into the couch a bit more. It was a few more moments before he heard footsteps and then a hand went down to rest on his shoulder before a kiss was pressed on his cheek.
A pause.
“A textbook?”
“Apparently the newest edition of the Advanced Potions textbook they’ll be offering to Sixth- and Seventh-years next year.” Severus scoffed, “Slughorn’s replacement Helena Trout wrote to me and asked if I could check if it was proficient enough for the class. She’s trying to make a good impression in her new position and Minerva referred her to me.”
“Ah, and what is the potions master’s verdict?”
“The potions master is surprised anyone even manages to brew half decently with all the mistakes in this thing.” Severus said just as the man behind him walked around the couch to slump down beside him, “Really, the students at that school have enough working against them without having to deal with flawed textbooks as well.”
He chuckled, “Tell me again why you keep refusing Albus’ invitations to teach?”
Severus rolled his eyes, “The same reason I let you get me knocked up in the first place.” He drawled and the blonde beside him scoffed. Severus shook his head, “I can’t trust that man, you know that. I’m surprised you’d even ask.”
“You forgave me.” And then Severus looked up at Remus, those blue eyes almost gleaming in the light as he gave the man beside him a soft smile. The raven shook his head.
“I did forgive you, didn’t I? I should really rethink my life choices.”
It was Remus’ turn to roll his eyes, “The new stock came into the shop today. I checked what they brought, but I have the list with me in case you want to check and make sure nothing’s missing.”
“Yes actually.” Severus said closing the book and setting it aside while Remus dug around in his pocket, “Last time they didn’t bring nearly enough eye of newt but somehow brought too much newt entrails. I blame you for all that, just so you know.”
Remus huffed as he took the parchment out and handed it to Severus, “And how is that my fault?”
“You’re entirely too nice to the supplier. Just because I can’t be at the shop right now he thinks he can get away with this nonsense.”
“He has been oddly relaxed lately.”
“Exactly. Soon as this brat is born, I’m coming back and restoring order to my shop.”
The corners of Remus’ eyes wrinkled with fondness at the word brat, “You mean you’re going back to strike fear into the hearts of the incompetent.”
“That’s exactly what I said.”
Remus laughed, reaching over to wrap his arm around Severus’ shoulders to pull him close and press a kiss against his temple and breathed him in before letting his hand rest on Severus’ bump. Severus shut his eyes for a moment in response.
“How is the brat today?”
“Which one?”
“Both.”
“Sissy has been refusing to sit still and Harry seems convinced that she’s trying to get out so she can play with him. Harry was fine. Molly brought Ron over for a bit, they played for a while and then I had Harry draw a picture for Rosalie, seemed like the only way to get him to stop clinging to my stomach the whole time.”
And then Remus’ expression fell, his lips pursed into a line. Severus looked up at the other, he was expecting that reaction.
“Did you see him today?”
Remus sighed, “Went over for a drink after work. He’s a wreck, Sev.”
Severus shook his head, “I still can’t believe she wants to leave him. Did she tell him why?”
“I was hoping that maybe she told you.” Remus admitted, “James knows, but he’s refusing to tell me for some reason and I don’t want to force him. I want him to tell me when he’s ready. And Padfoot’s just been occupied with something, I can’t seem to pin him down.”
Severus looked back down to the list in his hands. “Lily asked to come over tomorrow, maybe I could get her to tell me. I can’t imagine what’s come over her, I thought things were going well.”
“So was I, but I suppose you never really know how things are going to work out. I mean, look at us.”
“True, I still can’t remember what it is that came over me either.” Severus drawled again though the tease in his tone was obvious. Remus scoffed as he pressed another kiss on his temple. “You decided that you love me, that’s what came over you.”
Severus scoffed in return, “I sent Harry off to bed, he’ll want you to tuck him in once he’s done.”
“I should get right to it then.”
“Dinner’s in the kitchen.”
“I love you.” The werewolf said as he got up and Severus let himself lay back against the couch as he went over the list, rolling his eyes in frustration when he got ten items deep and already noticed a mistake.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
When Lily arrived the next day, they caught up on small talk. Rosalie seemed to barrel right into the house as she grabbed a hold of Harry and they went running outside. Already giggling madly as that flaming red hair fluttered about.
“No running in my house! Harry you know better!”
“Sorry Papa!” Harry called back even as they just kept running at top speed out the kitchen door into the back yard.
“How I’m going to deal with another one in a few months is entirely beyond me.” He said as he walked into the kitchen and settled into one of the kitchen chairs where he already had their tea waiting for them. He sighed as some of that extra pressure eased from his back and feet. Grateful that Remus had charmed the chairs in there to be more comfortable.
Lily only smiled, “Nonsense, you’re perfect with Harry and Rose.”
“Rosalie is here for a few hours, a few nights at most. That’s entirely different from having another child twenty-four hours a day, forever.” He said as he reached out to the kettle and cups to start pouring their tea.
“Starting to have regrets?”
“No,” Severus shook his head, “Remus is a wonderful father and I think I’ll be able to manage eventually, besides Harry’s beyond excited. We’re prepared. Speaking of preparations.” He handed one cup to Lily before taking his own to pour the sugar, “The full moon is next week, will you be able to mind the shop for a few days?”
“Of course, Sev.”
“You know I’d be there but with the baby it wouldn’t be safe.”
“How has Remus been holding up on his own?”
“Good.” Severus couldn’t help the fond smile as he lifted his tea to his lips. “Working at the shop keeps him busy, happy. He’s not worried about anyone finding out about his secret-“
“Because the owner has a soft spot for werewolves?” She teased and Severus rolled his eyes and then scoffed.
“The customers like him, the children especially. Plus, his marks in school were decent, he knows enough to run the apocathery on his own on a day to day basis. Whenever he has questions; he’s not too proud to ask. He’s doing well.”
Lily paused, “You seem happy.”
“I think I am.” Severus admitted softly and then he looked up at Lily, that oddly distant look in her eyes as she sipped from her tea and he frowned.
“Lily, what’s been happening between you and Potter?”
Lily set her cup down and shook her head, “You still can’t manage to say his name.”
“Lily.”
“We’re separated, just for a bit just until we get everything sorted out.” She explained quickly and Severus sighed.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. Nothing is wrong and yet somehow everything is.” She sounded confused even as she said this before she looked up at her friend. “This is your fault you know. You and Remus.”
Severus blinked, “What?”
“You barely tolerated him before, you were just trying to get pregnant for the new law and now you’re both happy and bonded and you’re pregnant again.” Lily said gesturing towards him and Severus almost got up to stand beside her when he saw the tears gleaming in her eyes. “And I just… I don’t know what I’m doing with James anymore.”
“Lily.” Severus said sternly to grab her attention, reaching out to take her hand as he spoke, “What’s wrong?”
She looked into his eyes and looked away. Severus used his free hand to accio some tissues and handed them to the redhead. She took them with a mumbled thanks wiping her eyes and then-
“James wants another child.”
Severus paused, “And this is bad news? Lily you always said you wanted at least three.”
“Yes, I know. I know what I said and I do. I still want more children-“
“Then-“
“But not right now.”
Severus blinked again, “That doesn’t seem like a problem. You can wait before having more children, surely Potter isn’t quite that impatient.”
“Yes well, we’d planned on only having another child in a few more years but then… a few months ago you and Remus announced that you were pregnant… again and he-“
“Oh for the love of… this isn’t a competition. Our decision to have another child was entirely spontaneous honestly we hadn’t really thought it all the way through.” Severus started to flush a bit, “Remus was days away from the full moon and the bonding’s made me a bit more susceptible to his advances around that time. It’s a miracle I even remembered to take the potion before-hand.”
Lily scoffed even as she kept wiping her eyes, “You two are entirely too happy together.”
“Potter will calm down. After a while he’ll realise that he’s being an idiot and you’ll be fine.”
“I’m not so sure about that.”
“Having another baby isn’t something you should rush and if he can’t understand that-“
“I cheated on him, Severus.” Lily said coolly and Severus tensed, he stared back at the redhead in shock completely unsure of what to say when Harry and Rosalie suddenly came rushing into the room.
“Papa, I promised Rose some cookies and-“
“Mum, what’s wrong?”
The little redhead said eyes glowing in concern as she went over to her mother’s side and Lily let out a laugh.
“Nothing, princess. Uncle Sev and I were just talking about a sad story that’s all.”
The girl frowned, “But-“
“Harry, how about you play with Rose in your room. Show her the picture you made and I’ll bring you some cookies in a little bit.”
Harry looked at Lily and then his father before he nodded, “O.K Papa. C’mon Rose.”
“Mum.”
“It’s fine Rosie, just go with Harry, maybe you can draw something for me as well.”
“O.K.” The girl seemed to eventually relent and both of the kids left the room and went to go down the hall into Harry’s room. Severus quickly reached for his wand to cast a privacy charm around them.
“You cheated on him? When?”
Lily sighed, “It started two months ago.”
“Two months?”
“We were arguing all the time and it was always about the same thing and I was just tired and it just happened.”
Severus’ lips pursed together, “Lily, I love you but-“
“These things don’t just happen. I knew you were going to say that. I wish you didn’t.” she sighed again grabbing another tissue, “I was at the house. Rose was sleeping and James was working and Sirius came over.”
The raven’s eyes widened and his blood ran cold. “Lily you didn’t. Not the mutt.”
“Please don’t call him that.”
“Sirius Black, Lilian?! Have you gone insane?! Bad enough that he’s an absolute arse but he’s Potter’s friend-“
“I know! Severus, I’m very aware thank you.” She looked away and almost seemed to start sobbing again, “It’s just that we’d been fighting and when I told Sirius why he got it. He understood. You remember when the law was initiated, he plans on leaving it to the last second, he never really wanted children. Said James’ fantasy of having a quidditch sized family was ridiculous and it… it just felt good being heard.”
Severus let out a heavy sigh as he dragged a hand over his hair, “That’s when it started?”
“Nothing happened, really all we did was talk. I always felt better afterwards and then, you remember when you and Remus had the kids come over for a sleep over for Harry’s birthday? I went out with him and it just felt good getting away from it all. I married James right after school, you remember and I… it felt good getting away from everything.”
Severus didn’t comment on that last part. They’d talked about it before. Before things changed, before the pregnancies. He told her that marrying so quickly didn’t seem like a good idea. But wizards married young, James’ parents were engaged by fifteen she said. Still Severus said nothing. There’s no point in rubbing salt in his best friends wounds.
“Is that the night things escalated?”
“Yes.” She said quietly giving a brief sniff.
“Does Potter know?”
She nodded and Severus sighed, “I suppose that explains why Remus hasn’t been able to contact Black.”
Her head snapped up, “You’re going to tell him, aren’t you?”
“Are you asking me to keep it a secret from him? I’m not doing that Lily, our history is tense enough. We promised each other no secrets.” Severus then took her hand again. “You know I’ve never liked Potter.”
Lily scoffed, “That seems like an understatement.”
“But, just because I don’t like him doesn’t mean I approve of this.” Lily opened her mouth to speak but Severus short, “You’re a grown woman, you don’t need my approval. So, I’ll ask you this; do you still love him?”
Lily paused and wiped her nose before giving a sniff, “I don’t know what I’m feeling anymore.”
“And what about Black?”
Lily’s eyes widened for a brief moment before she looked away with a shake of her head, “I feel good, when I’m around him… but I’m not sure…”
“If you want my opinion, then I think,” Severus let out a deep breath, “You should stay away from Black for a while-“
“Severus-“
“So you can decide what you want Lily. Right now, you’re not sure about Potter, but how can you be sure it’s because of Potter and not because of Black’s influence? Just get a little space, from both of them, really think about what you want and then once you’re ready make a decision.”
Lily looked up and Severus locked her gaze in his own, “You can’t try to do this forever, it’s not fair to anyone. Forgive me if I’m wrong but Potter’s never struck me as being the type who was willing to share and Black…” Severus wanted to say a lot of things. There’s a lot he wanted to say about Lily having an affair with Sirius bloody Black but he’s not a child anymore. Complaining about him wouldn’t help the situation. “Like you said, he doesn’t want to have children. He’s doing everything he can to put it off. And if that’s something that you still want in a few years, you need to consider that.”
Lily looked away and sniffed again, “I never thought I’d have this conversation like this.”
“What do you mean?”
Lily then shook her head and reached for another tissue.
“When you first told me you bonded with Remus. I was sure that you wouldn’t last. I kept thinking about how much you hated him before, but then Harry was born and suddenly you were making plans to get married. I thought it was going to end in tears.” Severus almost flinched back at that before she continued, “Now look at us, you and Remus are happy, you have another baby on the way and I’m the one in tears. Nothing’s going the way I thought it would.”
“I’m sorry my happiness is so devastating for you.” He drawled out as he reached for his tea again and Lily laughed.
“You know I’m happy for you. That day when we were at St Mungo’s, that’s what I wanted for both of us. I never imagined it would all go so differently.”
Severus sighed again, “You can still be happy. If… Black is the one to do that for you, you know I’d be there for you. I wouldn’t be happy about it, but I’d be even less happy if you stayed with Potter and became miserable. If you don’t want any more children then don’t have any. But make sure whatever decision you take is yours and no one else’s.”
Lily started to pout, “How did you become the emotionally mature one, making good decisions between us?”
Severus rolled his eyes with a scoff, “Dealing with werewolf mood-swings once a month and a precocious child with no sense of self-preservation all the time will do that for you.” And then a thought came to mind, “What are you going to do with Rose, while you deal with all of this?”
Lily then paused, “I… James and I will manage. I’m living in the cottage behind the manor for the separation so thankfully Rose hasn’t noticed too much, but-“
“If you need us to take her for a while, I’m sure Remus won’t mind. You can run it by Potter first.”
“But, you’re not far from your due date, Sev I couldn’t do that to you.”
“You’re not, I didn’t mean full time. I mean for if you need to get away and Potter’s occupied with work. As for the shop, I think I can get Regulus to fill in for Remus on the full moon.”
“Sev-“
“Lily, I want to make sure you make the right decision. If you can’t come too me then… maybe go see your parents for a bit. Get a break from everything.”
The redhead started to smile and reached out to take Severus’ hand. “Thank you Sev.”
“You’re welcome.” He said letting out a breath as he carefully eased himself from his chair. “I should get the brats those cookies before they start running in here again.”
Lily nodded as she watched Severus get up and walk over to the cupboard. Literally barefoot and pregnant. Lily never thought she’d see the day, but it suited him. Her eyes then went down to the tissue in her hands and she let out a soft sigh.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
That night Severus was on the couch again. Harry was getting ready for bed and Remus walked into the house-
A kiss was pressed against Severus’ cheek.
“The shop was quiet today.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”
“I suppose I just missed you and Harry.” Remus said plopping down on the couch beside the raven, “Tomorrow’s Saturday, how about we go out for dinner?”
Severus looked back up at the werewolf and away from his book, “Tired of my cooking already?”
“You aren’t tired of cooking yet?” Remus asked with an arched brow, “I just thought it might be nice to get out for a bit. You know Moony gets… territorial before the full moon. I don’t think we’ll get the chance next week.”
“True, tomorrow it is.”
“Did you talk to Lily about minding the shop?”
Severus paused, “I… did. We decided it would be best if Regulus took over instead. I already owled him, he said he could make it.”
Remus frowned, “Did you talk to her about James?”
Severus let out a sigh, “You should tuck in Harry first.”
“What-why?”
“Because once I tell you, you won’t be able to think about anything else. Go fuss over your child.”
Remus frown deepened, concern filling those blue eyes. “That bad?”
“Worse.”
“Merlin.” Remus sighed, “Alright, I’ll be right back.”
As Remus went to get Harry into bed, Severus busied himself with warming his dinner and setting out the table. He let out a sigh when about twenty minutes later a pair of arms wound themselves around his waist and over his bump. A kiss pressed against his cheek.
“Harry’s excited about tomorrow.”
“So, he’s not asleep?”
Remus scoffed, “Ten minutes of Oliver Twist and he was done for. We should really get him some more muggle books.” Remus then let out a sigh, “What did Lily say?”
Severus pulled free from his grasp, “I made Shepard’s pie.”
Remus sat down and pulled his plate closer while Severus sat in the chair on the opposite side.
“She’s unhappy.”
“Well I figured that much, but is it anything specific or-“
“Potter wants more children and she isn’t sure if she does as well.”
Remus frowned, “James couldn’t seriously be that upset about it could he? Surely-“
“She’s also having an affair.” Remus froze, Severus took in a deep breath, “With Black.”
Remus dropped his fork, “Sirius? No… No, he would never-”
“Unless you think that Lily was lying to me for some reason then, yes; I think he would.”
“But-“ Remus dragged a hand over his face, “God damn it Padfoot.”
“She said he makes her feel good. That she feels better around him. I don’t know.” Severus shook his head, “At the moment, I don’t think things are going to get better between her and Potter.”
“What about Rose?”
“She said they’re fine. I offered for Rosalie to spend some time around here in case things… flare up between them and she needs space. Not long term of course.”
“Yes, yes I understand. I just… damn it Sirius!”
“Remus.” Severus started in concern just as the werewolf stood and started pacing. It was a week before the full moon, his moods were always a bit unstable around this time. “Remus, breathe.”
“I’m breathing I-“
“Moony.” Severus said, holding out his hand towards the blonde and Remus looked at him for a moment before he moved forward and took the potions master’s hand letting himself to be led forward and knelt down beside Severus’ chair. He put his head on the raven’s lap, shutting his eyes to breath as he listened to the sound of the baby while Severus dragged his hand trough Remus’ hair.
“Breathe.”
He breathed slow and deep while Severus kept running his hands through his hair and finally started to calm down.
“I can’t believe that he’d do that to James.”
Severus wanted to make a comment about mangey mutt’s needing to be neutered but decided against it for the moment. This isn’t the time, later maybe.
“At least you know why he’s been avoiding you.”
“Does James know?”
“Lily said so. She didn’t say how he found out.”
“I just… she’s having an affair with Sirius, because James wants another baby?”
“Apparently, it’s our fault.”
Remus looked up at him, “Our fault.”
“When we announced the pregnancy… Potter suggested that they start trying as well and Lily said she just wasn’t ready. So they started fighting.”
“It’s not a bloody competition!”
“That’s what I said.”
“I’ll, I’ll talk to James on Sunday maybe go over for a drink.”
“Not tomorrow?”
“We have plans remember? I don’t want to spoil it because Sirius couldn’t keep it in his pants.” Remus growled and Severus laughed before shaking his head.
“Loath as I am to admit it, this isn’t his fault.”
“What?”
“Though his choices leave something to be desired, Black isn’t the one who’s married. Lily is. She should’ve known better. She could have said no, she didn’t. This is on her.”
Remus frowned, “Severus-“
“I’m not defending the mutt, Remus. But I’m not so naïve as to ignore the facts either. What Lily needs to do now is decide on what she wants, before she or anyone else gets hurt.”
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Saturday, started off great.
Severus woke to the smell of breakfast and got up to discover that Remus already had Harry dressed and ready to go. He scoffed as he walked into the kitchen, leaning over to press a kiss on Harry’s temple.
“Morning, pup.”
“Morning Papa!” Harry beamed and Severus paused, “You’re looking excited.”
“Daddy said we’re going to the zoo.”
“Did he?” Severus turned to look at Remus who was just turning back to plate the bacon in the pan.
“I promised Harry dragons and lions.” The werewolf said as he set the pan into the sink and the charmed sink immediately began washing. He then walked around the table to wrap his arms around Severus; waist and gave him a kiss. “I also figured it’d be a good opportunity to get you and Harry a few new books. I know you’ve been going stir crazy and Flourish and Blotts don’t deliver quick enough.”
Severus paused to look at him, “You seem better since last night. I thought-“
“No, we’re not talking about that today. Honestly, I just want to forget for a few hours. Padfoot and Prongs are problems for tomorrow.” He said quietly and Severus nodded.
“Of course.” He said and Remus leaned in to take a deep breath of Severus’ scent along his neck his arms tightening ever so slightly, “How’s Moony?”
“Ravenous.” Remus whispered against Severus’ ear and the potions master’s eyes widened a bit when he felt a growl almost rumble from Remus’ chest. “If you weren’t already pregnant, I’d probably try to put another baby in you.”
Severus’ eyes darted down to Harry who seemed oblivious as he took two pieces of bacon from the plate before reaching for his orange juice.
Severus huffed, swatting Remus on the head and the blonde flinched back another growl escaping his lips and his eyes flashing for a brief second.
“Either Moony waits his turn, or he won’t get his treat later.”
Remus paused and then gave a scoffed, “Fine. I’ll wait.”
“Will you?”
“I waited years for you didn’t I, what’s a few more hours for today.” He said pressing a kiss on Severus’ cheek and he let out a sigh as he pulled out of the werewolf’s grasp.
“Good.” Severus reached over to ruffle Harry’s hair with one hand before stealing a piece of bacon with the other as he left the kitchen to get ready.
“Papa!” the boy huffed before Remus slipped another piece of bacon on Harry’s plate.
“Any special requests?”
“Peanut butter… and pickles…” Severus paused, “And strawberries with marmite.”
“Ew!” Harry cried out in disgust.
“Don’t question Sissy’s appetite Harry.”
The zoo was lovely, with Harry beaming at the lions and tigers and beyond excited at the petting zoo when he got to touch a baby Opaleye. They wandered around with Severus sitting down every now and then to rest his feet while Harry ran around and practically lost his mind with Remus trying to keep up. For lunch they picnicked at one of the benches. Later they headed to Diagon Alley, Severus picked up a few books, got a few odd and ends for the house and then finally settled down in a private booth at a restaurant for dinner.
During dessert Harry got treacle tart, Severus got chocolate ice cream with strawberries, chocolate and… marmite.
“I can’t believe they actually made that for you.” Remus mused over his own piece of treacle tart and Harry’s nose wrinkled.
“Ew.” Severus rolled his eyes, taking a spoonful of the stuff and holding it out to Harry.
“Do you want some?”
“No!” Harry said shaking his head as he leaned away.
“On your tart maybe?”
Large dark eyes went wide and he quickly reached out to cover his plate with his hands.
“Papa no!”
“Alright.” Severus said eating the spoonful, he then set his spoon down. “Your face then.” and reached out to pull Harry closer peppering kisses on his face. The boy squealed and squirmed before giggling until Severus finally released him.
“Gross.” He huffed even with the smile on his face and Severus shrugged.
“Sissy thinks it’s delicious.”
“I’ll show Sissy better when she gets here.” Harry said with a shrug of his own as he started eating again and Severus looked up to see Remus smiling softly at them.
“What?”
“Nothing it’s just. It’s hard to believe you haven’t always wanted children.”
“You know it’s not that I didn’t. It just never felt… possible or appropriate before.” Severus said reaching over to ruffle Harry’s hair again and the boy just kept swinging his legs as he ate. “I didn’t let myself think about the possibility before.”
“I used to obviously. Even if it didn’t always seem possible or appropriate for me either.” Remus said quietly, “When we were at school, I wondered about you. I thought about it sometimes. You seemed so good with Regulus.”
“Regulus was hardly a child compared to me at the time.”
“Close enough. I thought it would be nice to try with you someday, never thought it would actually happen though. But I’m glad it did.” Remus said reaching out to take Severus’ hand and the potions master felt himself flush ever so slightly for a brief moment. He let out a huff.
“Moony’s making you sentimental I see.”
Remus scoffed, lifting Severus’ hand to press a kiss against his knuckles. “Always goes a bit soft around you, Sev.”
“Daddy, when will I get to see Moony?” Harry suddenly asked, his cheeks covered in crumbs from the tart and with those large eyes darting between his parents.
Severus took a deep breath, “Harry, remember we talked about this. When you’re older and you start doing magic, you can get your own Animagus form like Prongs and Padfoot and then maybe you can meet Moony. But you start at school first.”
Harry bit his lip, “But why?”
“Moony likes children, but he likes animals too. And you’ll be able to play with him when you have your own Animagus.” Remus explained, “But not yet.”
“You’re going to go see him soon Daddy?”
“Yes pup, next week.”
“O.K, I’ll make him a picture, so you can give it to him.”
“That sounds lovely Harry.”
Harry nodded Severus reached out to wipe the boy’s cheeks with a napkin glancing up at Remus and giving him a soft smile.
It took a while to explain Moony to Harry. Why Remus had to leave once a month, why he got a bit impatient sometimes. Why Remus would seem exhausted after he came back. The story they came up with, was that Remus was going to visit a friend every month, Moony. Moony liked to run and play and that’s why Remus would come back tired. As for why they called Remus Moony sometimes, well, Moony and Remus looked alike so they just got a bit confused sometimes.
It seemed to work, but Severus knew they wouldn’t be able to use that excuse for too long. Harry would get older and they’d need to figure out a way to tell him. But that’s a problem for later.
After dinner they headed home, with Harry clutching the horntail plushie they got at the zoo against his chest once they had him ready for bed.
Severus was making sure everything in the kitchen was cleared out when Remus’ arms wrapped around him from behind and he felt the werewolf bury his nose in his hair.
“Remus?”
A short growl.
“No, you don’t get to do that.” Severus said immediately turning around to face the werewolf and saw those amber eyes flashing again, shiver ran down his spine. “You are not using Moony to get in my pants.”
“You promised.”
Severus sighed, “Is Harry asleep?”
“Yes.”
Severus rolled his eyes, “Fine but-“
Remus quickly leaned in and sealed their lips in a kiss, his hands already working on getting rid of Severus’ clothing. Severus let out a soft moan as he wrapped his arms around the werewolf’s neck only to stop when Remus pulled back and crouched down in front of him. Severus braced his hands on the kitchen table, while Remus pushed his shirt open to reveal his bump and pressed a kiss against it before standing up straight.
“I’ll be gentle.”
He whispered against Severus’ lips and the raven gasped when he was suddenly lifted up into Remus’ arms. A startled laugh left his throat only for the moment to break when there was a loud knock on the door.
Remus snarled and Severus gave a scoff, “I think you’ll have to wait a bit longer.”
“They’ll go away.”
The knocking didn’t stop. It became louder and more insistent; the doorbell was ringing as well. Severus sighed as he extracted himself from Remus’ grasp ignoring the werewolf’s glare.
“It might be important.” He said already fixing his shirt and Remus sighed, shutting his eyes as they went back to their usual blue.
“I’ll get it.”
Severus scoffed as he stood by the table still righting his clothes. Listening as Remus headed for the front door, it opened and the knocking stopped.
“Padfoot? What’re-“
“Where is he?!”
“Where is who?”
“Snape!”
Severus left the kitchen and headed through the living room towards the entry to the door.
“Sirius we talked about this, either you call him by his name, or you call him Lupin, we’re bonded now.”
“Fine, Lupin!”
He heard stomping down the hall until Sirius eventually appeared in the living room looking dishevelled with a glare in his eyes that immediately fixed on Severus before he sneered.
“There you are you bastard! Where is she?!”
“It’s lovely as always to see you as well Black.” Severus drawled folding his arms over his chest.
“Don’t get smart with me, where is she?!”
“Where is who?”
“Lily! I know she came to see you this week she told me she would and now she’s avoiding me.”
“I can’t imagine why.”
“Snape.”
“It’s Lupin, I’m married now remember, to your best mate. Like Lily is married to your other best mate.” Severus said looking Sirius right in the eyes. The Animagus shrank back a bit before quickly composing himself and glaring all over again.
“That is none of your business.”
“Then why are you here?”
“Because you know where she is, I know it!”
Severus gave him a very bored look, “What if I do?”
Sirius moved right into his face, “You bastard, if you don’t tell me where she is, I’ll-“
“Sirius!” Remus suddenly snapped, “Don’t say another word.” His eyes were flashing again, this time with anger instead of lust, he looked over to his husband. “Severus, go check on Harry.”
Severus wanted to argue, wanted to give Black a piece of his mind but just let out a humourless scoff as he turned around and headed towards Harry’s room.
Sirius was still glaring at Severus’ retreating form only to stop when his shoulder was grabbed and he was turned around before a fist connected with his face hard. He stumbled and fell back beside the couch, looking up Remus was glaring darkly at him.
“That’s for threatening my mate.”
Sirius blinked before letting out a sigh as he grabbed a hold of the couch to drag himself up, “He’s carrying your kid. I wasn’t going to touch him-“
Sirius was cut off when he was punched yet again and this time fell over onto his side. The Animagus let out a groan of pain as he touched his lip to see that he was bleeding.
“Moony what the hell-“
“That’s for having an affair with Lily!” Remus said as he glared down at the Animagus, “What the hell has gotten into you! To do this to James? Really?!”
Sirius looked away before he pushed himself up on his hands and knees again before he stood up completely. He wiped his mouth one last time. “That doesn’t have anything to do with you. Tell Severus, to stay out of my business.”
“She’s his best friend. It is his business. You and James are my best friends so it’s my business too.” Remus said grabbing hold of Sirius and dragging him over to the couch. “You’re going to sit here and you’re going to explain yourself.”
“Explain what?!” Sirius huffed indignantly.
“Just… why? They’ve been together for years; they have a child together. She’s his dream girl Sirius-“
“Well maybe she doesn’t want to be his dream girl, ever think about that?” Sirius asked as he glared right back at Remus, “What if she never wanted that? Shouldn’t it matter what she wants?”
“This isn’t even about her.” Remus said clearly, “If she was unhappy and ended up having an affair with some random bloke it would’ve been one thing but she’s having an affair with you! This is about you. You should’ve drawn the line and not jumped into bed with your best friend’s wife.”
Sirius went quiet, he swallowed hard as he looked away. “It wasn’t like that.”
Remus walked around to sit on the couch beside him, “Then what was it like Padfoot?”
“Nothing? We were just… it was nothing at first. We were friends, just talking, I’m not even sure when or how that just… changed.”
Remus’ jaw clenched and he took in a deep breath, “Why are you here Padfoot? If you’re not even sure what you’re doing then why are you looking for her?”
“I…” Sirius trailed off, just staring at his hands and Remus let out a sigh.
“Severus does know where she is. He suggested that she get some space from both you and James to figure herself out. I think it would be best for you to do the same.”
Sirius’ head snapped up to look at him, “Moony-“
“I don’t know what this is, but it doesn’t seem healthy or good so while she gets some space, take some for yourself. If you still want her after all this then…” Remus dragged a hand over his face, “I don’t know what you should do Sirius. Just for once stop acting like a brainless mutt and think before you act.”
Sirius frowned at him, “You’re starting to sound like Snape.”
Remus’ eyes narrowed, “His name is Lupin now.”
Sirius rolled his eyes and let out a heavy sigh, “I wasn’t trying to hurt James, you know.”
“I know. Get yourself together and come back when you’re ready to fix all this.” Remus said getting up from his seat. Sirius blinked.
“You’re throwing me out.”
“You didn’t seriously think I’d let you stay here after the stunt you pulled. It’s a few days before the full moon. I’m trying to keep myself calm.”
Sirius got up off the couch, “I’m sorry Moony.”
Remus moved forward to hug the other man and gave his back a brief pat. “I forgive you, just… make better choices Padfoot.”
Sirius scoffed as he hugged the other back before he let go, “I’m not sure if I’ll be able to do that.”
“Try.” Remus said pulling back, “Now get out of my house before I really throw you out.”
Sirius laughed as he moved towards the door only to stop, “Tell… Severus, I’m sorry too.”
“You can tell him yourself some other time.”
“Alright, I can take a hint.” He said waving back as he left the house, Remus shut and locked the door behind him before letting out a heavy sigh as he made his way to the bedroom. Opening the door, he paused when he peered inside and found Severus in bed with Harry sleeping by his side.
The raven looked up at him, “He heard shouting.”
Remus shook his head as he went into the bathroom to get done for bed before coming back and crawling over the bed. Pressing a kiss on Harry’s head first before leaning over to kiss Severus on the lips.
“Dare I ask?”
“No, he didn’t give me any answers. Seemed a bit clueless really.”
Severus shook his head as Remus slipped into the bed and muttered a quiet Knox.
“Are you still going to see Potter tomorrow?”
“I think so.” Remus let out a huff of frustration, “Today started off so well too.”
Severus let out a snort, “Hoping to get lucky Moony?”
“Yes actually.” Remus said simply and Severus sighed.
“Maybe tomorrow night.”
“Promise?”
“Absolutely.”
“I love you.”
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The next day was peaceful for the most part, with Severus writing out instructions for Regulus for his days watching the shop while Remus played with Harry for most of the morning and afternoon.
At about five o’clock he headed out to see Potter for that drink. Severus hadn’t really expected the werewolf to return any time before ten, so he was surprised when Remus walked in at eight o’clock, with Potter slung over his shoulder.
“I couldn’t just leave him there.” Remus said, looking entirely too sober in comparison to his friend. “I didn’t see Rose-“
“Lily took her to visit her parents.”
Severus said as he led them out into the living room. He left Remus to it and went upstairs to get ready for, bed. He took his prenatal potions as per his routine and stabilising potions as well. Merlin knows he needs it with everything that’s been going on. His thoughts went to Remus’ wolfsbane. Prepared the last time he was able to brew without it affecting the baby and kept under a stasis spell. He’ll need to remind Remus to go to the shop and take it.
He went back out into the living room a bit later. Remus had finished tucking Potter in on the couch, he walked by Severus and pressed a kiss on his cheek as he disappeared into the kitchen. Only for the potions master to remember that he left a mess in the living room. It wouldn’t do in case Potter started stumbling about in the middle of the night.
Severus let out a sigh as he picked up some of the toys that Harry left on the table earlier, trying his best to ignore the very inebriated auror on the couch only for it to all come to naught.
“I’m an idiot.”
Severus looked up to find that James was staring at him with blurry unfocused eyes through his glasses, “That much we can agree on.”
“I felt sorry for him, you know. I felt sorry for Remus when you two were trying to get pregnant. I just thought, Merlin, he’s going to be stuck with Snape for the rest of his life because of this kid. I thought you were going to make him unhappy.” James scoffed, “I thought, why couldn’t he have found someone like Lily, you know? A beautiful girl that could really make him happy. I was sure this whole thing was going to be a train wreck.”
Severus didn’t say anything to that, even he can admit that they didn’t have the best start.
“Now look at you, you’re bonded and you’re about to have another baby!” James scoffed, “You’re happy and bloody hell Moony’s just beaming all the time now. I was so sure that I was going to be happy and Remus was going to be miserable. Now look at us, who’s miserable now am I right?”
Severus just looked away as he walked over to put Harry’s toys in the box in the living room. He could feel James’ eyes on him, as unsteady and unfocused as they were.
“You know, I wasn’t even serious about having another baby yet.” James said and Severus turned to look at him, “Work’s got me busy and I didn’t want Lily dealing with another baby on her own. It was just a joke. We’d just gotten back from the party at Molly’s. You and Remus announced that you were pregnant again. When we got home, I joked, I said maybe we should start trying too; didn’t want old Snivellus to have more kids than me first. It was just a joke, but then we started arguing. I’m not even sure why. I don’t mind waiting for a bit, honest, but…”
Severus let out a sigh, “Get some sleep Potter.” He said as he turned to leave the room when James called out.
“I should’ve married you.”
Severus turned back to look at the other incredulously, “You’re drunk Potter. Go to sleep.”
“No really, I should’ve married you. Look at you, barefoot and pregnant. Just the perfect little wife, you don’t give Remus any trouble. If I’d known that you’d turn out like this, I would’ve been chasing after you instead of Lily all those years ago. And you know, I noticed that Harry looks a lot like me, he looks like he could be mine. It would’ve been so easy with you, wouldn’t it Severus?”
Severus took another deep breath, “You’re drunk, go to sleep.”
He turned and left the room ignoring as Potter continued to babble on as he climbed the stairs and went up to the bedroom to get ready for bed all over again.
Remus walked in a bit later, shutting the door behind him before he started to get undressed while Severus sat up in bed.
“Should I be concerned about James saying that he should have married you?”
Severus scoffed, “The idiot is drunk.”
“Very drunk. He’s a mess.” Remus disappeared into the bathroom for a while before returning, dressed for bed and he crawled onto the bed beside Severus, leaning in to press a kiss against the raven’s lips.
“He’s right though, I’m very lucky.”
“You bet, your furry little tail you are.” Severus teased before returning the gesture, “But so am I, so I suppose it all evens out.”
Remus laughed as he slipped under the covers and wrapped his arms around Severus who muttered a quick Knox and the lights went out. Remus pulled him in close and took a moment to breathe him in.
“Do you think things could get better for them?”
“Maybe. It’ll take some work for him to trust her that’s if she even wants to try again.”
“Have you managed to talk to Black after…”
“He’s avoiding me again, so no. I’m not even really sure what I’d say to him anyway. I’m still pissed about what he did so it’s for the best for now.”
“Regulus said he hasn’t seen him either.”
“Lily?”
“She didn’t say. I hope she’s staying away from him at least for a bit.”
“I’m sure he’s fine. Anyway, I’d like to try and focus on James for now, I’ve never seen him like this.”
“He’ll be fine. Even if they end up splitting up. I’m sure it’ll all work out for the best.”
Remus let out a sigh, “You’re right.”
“Of course I am.” The werewolf scoffed before his lips pulled into a pout, “Moony didn’t get his treat tonight.
Severus couldn’t help but laugh, “If you think I’m having sex with you with Potter sleeping down the hall, you’re very wrong.”
“Maybe I should kick him out.”
Severus just arched a brow, “Alright, go ahead.”
Remus stared back at him in silence, “You know I wouldn’t do that.”
“Yes, I do.”
“Snarky git.” Remus paused, “But once James is gone-“
“You have one last day at the shop.”
“Damn.”
“Once you get back, and you’re feeling better.” Severus said leaning in to press a kiss against Remus’ lips. “You can have me for as long as you want.”
“Really?”
“Harry’s going to a sleepover at the Weasley’s two days after the full moon. We’ll have the house to ourselves. Unless Potter or Black show up of course.”
Remus rolled his eyes, “They won’t step foot in here. I’ll kick him out in the morning.”
Severus just smiled as he shut his eyes and leaned his temple against Remus’.
“I love you.”
“I love you too, Sev.”