Where Harry Learns A Little
Chapter 9 of 13
neelix‘You may not love me today, tomorrow, or ever, but I will love you until it kills me, and, even then, you'll be in my heart.’
~ Anonymous ~
Severus
‘Can I come home, Daddy?’
Her dark eyes sparkle with hope as she sits comfortably against the hospital pillows. She has steadily become herself over the past few days, and although we no longer need to maintain our dual vigil, neither of us can bear to be away from her for any length of time. Hermione finally allowed herself to return home to bathe and sleep, and for now I have Happy to myself. I cherish the simple conversation, and the quiet moments where I read and she listens.
‘When you are fully recovered, and not before.’
‘Uncle Harry said I’m better,’ she protests. Uncle Harry, indeed. He tolerates it, too. He has a way with him around his charges, a gentle authority and warmth that they respond to with eager smiles and quick laughter, and now it seems that Happy has embraced him as part of our small family.
‘Medi-witch Potter will tell us when the time is right.’
Medi-witch Potter is avoiding me like the plague right now, apparently. I went too far in my assumption that his affection had lasted the years between us. I never was that good at reading the signals, but it changes nothing anyway. I will go back to the life I had and be no worse for it. I had no expectations, but I had thought there was a look in his eye. I was mistaken, and I made fool of myself in the process. All the better that he makes himself scarce when I’m around.
‘Daddy, will you read to me again?’
Happy moves across the bed to make space, and I indulge myself by sitting beside her. She rests against me where she can see the words as I speak, and I feel her small hand worm its way into mine.
‘Which chapter today?’ I already know the answer, but I live in hope.
‘The Godric Gryffindor one,’ she says with excitement.
‘Again? Not Salazar today?’ I’m teasing her, a familiar game. She giggles and squeezes my hand with hers.
‘Daddy! Stop it,’ she says, still laughing. I look down at her smiling face and feel gladness and love and all that comes with parenthood.
It’s so good to have her back.
***
Hermione
I’m surprised to find myself here again so soon, but Harry deserves the truth. If I wait for Severus to tell him, Harry will spend the rest of his life in the dark, and if there is any chance for them, I have to do this. I really just want them both to be happy.
It’s raining hard here, but when I Apparated the sun was shining. It’s too Muggle-heavy to cast a charm, and with no umbrella I can feel my hair turning to frizz, and water is running down the back of my shirt. I knock on the door and try to find some shelter under the narrow overhang of cornicing and gutters.
‘Hermione! No one called me from the hospital, is something wrong with Harriet?’ The genuine concern on his face makes my heart melt.
‘Happy’s doing just fine, Harry. I just wanted to talk to you.’ I smile as relief washes over him.
‘You’re getting soaked. Come on in.’
I walk past him and feel the warmth and gentle pressure of a Drying Charm. My heart sinks and I know it was done out of kindness, but Drying Charms play havoc with my hair.
‘Thanks.’
‘Come through, I just made a pot of coffee.’
I follow Harry into the sitting room and I’m momentarily stunned. The house is bigger than it looks. The room is large with a high ceiling and deep bay window, the walls painted a soft blue. There is a large, cream sofa and a blue upholstered chair opposite the fireplace and a television sits in the corner. On the large, oak coffee table sits a tray, complete with coffee pot and biscuits.
‘Help yourself, I’ll just go and grab another mug.’
I sit and pour myself coffee. Taking a sip, I’m not surprised to find that it’s the best I’ve ever had. Harry seems to have impeccable taste.
‘It’s good, isn’t it? I buy it from Bewley’s. It’s one of the perks of living in Dublin. That, and the fact no one really knows me.’ He walks over and pours himself some of the delicious, dark liquid before taking a seat in the chair.
I’m suddenly unsure where to begin. He’s settled here, so it seems, and I realise I know nothing of his life now, beyond St Mungo’s. But I remember my first visit, and how upset he was.
‘Harry, I came to talk to you about Severus.’
He pauses in mid sip, but tries to hide it swiftly. ‘What about him? He’s alright, isn’t he?’
‘He’s over the moon about Happy. We’ll never be able to thank you enough, you know,’ I say sincerely.
‘Just doing my job,’ he says with a grin, but I know he’s as pleased with the outcome as we are.
‘He loved you, Harry.’ There. I said it, and it can’t be unsaid.
‘Is that right? Not what he told me.’ He frowns and drinks more deeply. ‘Not that it matters now. He has you and Harriet, remember?’
‘We have a daughter together, but that’s all it is. Severus and I have never been a couple.’
‘What?’ He blinks at me in confusion and I wonder if I should start at the beginning.
‘Severus is gay, Harry. And so am I.’
He laughs, disbelieving. ‘Nice try, Hermione. You don’t have to do this, really.’
‘Yes, I do! You have to understand, Severus was trying to be noble by pushing you away. He didn’t want you to throw your life away in the dungeons with someone old enough to be your father!’
I have to convince him somehow. Short of letting him use Legilimency, I’m running out of ideas, and I can’t go that far. There are some things that are not mine to share, after all.
Harry is staring at me, his face pale and eyes bright. I don’t know what else to say to him.
‘He said that,’ he whispers softly. ‘The day that I left, that’s what he said to me.’
‘He didn’t tell you everything, Harry. He was so scared you would leave him, and that you would bore of him. He doesn’t have a good track record where relationships are concerned, and he couldn’t bear being hurt again. That’s why he let you go.’
‘He doesn’t know me,’ he says, and I hear the hint of desperation in his voice.
‘I know, Harry. I told him you would never let him down. But he wouldn’t listen to me.’
He shakes his head and laughs again, this time incredulous. ‘So at what point did you end up in bed with him Hermione? Did you take pity on poor, broken-hearted Severus?’
‘Severus and I never slept together, Harry. We both wanted a child, and it was unlikely to happen the conventional way. I was with Rosmerta then…’
‘You? With Rosmerta? You’re winding me up!’
I grin at the look on his face. ‘Oh yes. There were perks to working at the Three Broomsticks that I didn’t share with you, Harry.’
He shakes his head and laughs. ‘So, how the hell did Harriet happen?’
‘Not in the usual way. But that’s for Severus to tell you.’
‘I doubt I’ll be having an in depth conversation with him any time soon, Hermione.’ I hear the sigh and feel as frustrated with Harry as I did with Severus all those years ago.
‘Well if you wait for him to make the first move, I’d have to agree with you. But he still loves you, I’m sure of that. It’s up to you, Harry. But he would never have removed the Vow if he wasn’t hoping for something.’
‘I wanted to ask you about that. Why an Unbreakable Vow?’
‘We agreed that no one should know the truth about Happy. We wanted to protect her, so convincing the world we were a normal couple was the best way to do that. We didn’t mean to hurt you.’
There is nothing more to say, and we sit in silence as the minutes tick past. The coffee goes cold, and as I leave, Harry is still nursing his mug between tightly-clasped hands.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Making Happy
80 Reviews | 6.75/10 Average
So good to read this again.
Seriously lovely.
Yay for happy endings! You have done a fantastic job with this, Neelix. Really, it was beautiful from start to finish. I think this ended perfectly where it did, but I would be lying if I said I wouldn't be thrilled to see little glimpses of the future here and there. I like the conversation between mother and daughter on the train. It would be totally unrealistic if Harriet didn't have some reservations about how her peers would accept this unconventional family. It isn't the norm, and kids are cruel. Still, you make the point that different is not equivalent to bad. She just has extra people to love her is all. Regardless of her nerves about what people will think, I have no doubt that she knows deep down how very special she is and how very much she is loved.I don't think she will get too much grief about her parentage. Having three of the most instrumental folks in wizarding history as your family has got to count for something, right?I really, really love Harry's confidence in their relationship. He could feel nervous due to lack of verbal confirmation on Severus' part, and yet he seems to just know that this is right and that it will work between them for always.I hope the writing of this tale lifted your spirits a bit. I know reading it did for me. Thanks so much for sharing such a great story!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
thank you so much for your positive response to this. I'm really pleased with the way it was recieved, and yes, I did really get a boost from wiritng it!There will be new one-shots intermittently I think, firstly from Severus' POV. I'm still off work but I hope to go back soon . I miss the craic, to be honest!
So glad to see them together at the end. I really liked your story telling from each person's point of view. As someone else said, Snape's point of view on the bonding would be lovely to see.Well done.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank yu so much for reading. I intend to do a few one-shots to go with this, i think.
This was fantastic. Although not my usual pairing preference, the characterizations were outstanding. I agree with the request for a sequel. Very interesting to see how they balance the alternative family and how the kids handle it. It is always fun to see the true potential of a kid with parents such as Hermione and Severus too! Thanks for writing!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you so much - I seem to have convinced a few people about the pairing!
Well now everything is sorted and in its proper space. Nicely done you!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thankyou! I had a lot of fun with this x
Well, my dear, this simply BEGS for a sequel !! Snarry is generally not my thing so much, but this tale was written with such sensitivity and plausability of character that I was ensnared. Fine work !!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Wow. Thank you for that! perhaps I will do some one-shots to go along with this. A sequel would need further plot, and not their bonded there's no where to go!
AWWWWWWWWWWW! This is perfect ending. Maybe one day you'll write about Severus' feelings for this evening. I would have loved to see his face when he discovered the box in his plate. And his emotions while Harry paased the ring on his fingers should be interesting to know. Please?
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I might do a special one-shot just for you from Severus POV :) Thanks for reading xx
Response from snitchette (Reviewer)
*squeeeee* THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
Awww ... this was nice. One thing that I have really enjoyed about this story is that there is conflict at the proper times, but it is quickly resolved. Not that I don't enjoy long drawn out angst and such, but that is not what this story is ultimately about. I think the cat is out of the bag as far as any secrets between them, so all that is left to do is pursue this relationship. Something that I needed to convince me that this pairing can work is a mature Harry. I'm ok with SS/HG where she is young, but for some reason it is hard for me to stomach a young, inexperienced, immature Harry with Snape. No worries with this version of Harry; he is perfect.Hermione is going to be absolutely delighted by this latest development. Happy probably will be as well. I don't see that there is anywhere to go now, except towards a happy ending -- no pun intended :)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you honey - sorry I'm so late in replying, I've been off radar for a little while.Thanks for reading x
Well, from Harry's perspective, Hermione has given him a lot to think about. From my perspective, what the hell is he waiting for? Go to Severus now and tell him how you feel. Geez, men.I love the interaction between Severus and Happy. I can see why he was worried about Hermione taking her away as he clearly loves her dearly.Severus and Hermione have taken an awkward situation and made it even worse in the interest of protecting Harry and Happy. I hope they can make things right for all parties involved.I will be interested to know how Happy came about. I thought in the beginning that Harry and Severus were a couple and wanted a child and Hermione volunteered to help, but then somehow things went belly up and he and she ended up staying together. Then I thought that maybe Severus and Harry were a couple, but because of maybe lots of alcohol and some bad choices, they ended up sleeping together-just this one time- and Happy was the good and bad outcome. Guess I will wait and see.On a personal side note, Harry and Happy are two of the Hippos in the game Hungry, Hungry, Hippos which my son has just recently discovered. I've thought about you each and every one of the ten thousand times we have played over the last week :)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Ahh yes, Hungry Hungry Hippos - this is the bane of Severus' life in Hilltop Cottage, the devil's own entertainment! lol!!More comes clear in the next couple of chapters, and as you say, Harry is never backward about coming forward so...
Response from HBAR (Reviewer)
I knew if anyone would understand my pain, it would be you and Severus!
At last! Harry knows the truth. Whew thats a releif. ((bounces)) Severus ought to duck if knows whats good for him. I expect he is going to get a good shouting at by med witch Potter. Hee
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
lol... I think there may be some strong words, you're right. Harry is like a dog with a bone really!
Hooray! You had me genuinely worried about Happy there. I have a very hard time picturing Hermione with Rosemerta, but then Ginny was taken and Lavender was REALLY not her type, so who knows? I guess the wizarding world figured out Artificial Insemination, though chances are they don't do it with a glorified turkey baster. ... well, maybe they do. Why use magic when simple Muggle methods work just as well? It's no use guessing- I'm pleasantly surprised every time.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Well. I'm glad I was able to make you feel something. Next chapter wont be long. Thanks for reading.
I can't wait to hear Severus' story about the conception of Happy. Because honestly I thougt it involved a lot of alcohool followed by a pityful performance and a great headache afterwards, maybe regrets too.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
That would have been a fun scenario to write, actually, but no, not like that. I won't keep you waiting for much longer.
... as I Floo home, I’m feeling more confused than I was before.*pats Harry on the back* "Me too buddy, me too."Where, may I ask, is my explanation of this vow? Hmmm? I'd sic Severus on you, but I'll be damned if he isn't soft and squishy around the edges in this tale. And if that sounds like a negative comment, it isn't. I love your Severus. He retains his hard exterior, biting words, inherent insecurities ... all of the things that make him who he is. But when he is with Hermione, or Happy, or now Harry, he softens a little and that makes a hard-to-love man loveable.You may very well be able to take credit after so many before you have failed, to turn me into a Snarry fan. I'll hold out until the end to decide, though. No pressure, really.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you for reading, even if Snarry isn't your thing. I warn you now there will be sex coming up. I'll do my best to make it believable so that you don't feel the need to avert your eyes!Severus is a bit softer in this story. He's a different man, I think, and having Happy changed him beyond his own imagination. I'm sure that he's looked back on his own childhood and decided to be a different sort of parent.I have to be honest, I have struggled with the last couple of chapters. Hopefully the next one will be easier.
Response from HBAR (Reviewer)
I warn you now there will be sex coming up. I'll do my best to make it believable so that you don't feel the need to avert your eyes!You've found my issue with these two. There can be a ton of sex, or none at all ... I just always have a hard time with a relationship between these two feeling believable. I'm liking them so far, even though their interactions have been repressed. Fear not, I have absolute faith in you to make this work.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
No pressure then. That's good!lol... I'm on chapter 10, sex will be in 11 I'm thinking. Wish us luck (thats me, Severus and of course, Harry... bwahahahaha!!!!)
AAaarrgh! I thought we might find out about the Vow in this chapter!! Well, I am glad that Happy is alright, anyway. Both Hermione and Severus will be able to face anything that happens now. Severus seems to be a great father so why he should have worried about Hermione taking her away, I don't know. Still insecure that everyone he loves will die/run away I suppose and whatever he Vow is, I don't think it has helped him to grow emotionally. Though I think having a daughter has, so perhaps he's ready to jump into the deep end with Harry. *Crosses fingers!*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think you're right about Severus and his insecurities. He has been abandoned by everyone he's ever cared about.The Vow isn't that exciting, really! lol... I think everyone will be majorly disappointed.
I'm so relieved Happy's well. I don't believe Severus would have ever recovered from her death, even with Harry's love to support him.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think you're right,
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
. Onwards...
Thanks for not killing Happy off. Okay I really didnt think you would, but I was nervous for a bit. The vow is lifted, the child is recovering seems to me its time for the adults to have a discussion. Drum roll please for the next chapter!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
lol... Next chapter is on it's way. Thanks for reading x
Well it is about time. I've been wondering about all of this vow business; the what and the why of it all. I certainly hope that this means the next chapter gives more insight into it all. Knowing you and your wily ways, the next chapter will probably be from Happy's POV, and will take place while she is under for surgery so will just be a blank page, LOL. Ok. you're not that bad. Still, don't make us wait too long for more, pretty please.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Dont panic - Chapter 8 is with my beta ARo so you won't have to wait long - I really wish I had done a blank Happy POV, lol!!! I'm not that clever!I hope the reveal makes sense to everyone... *doubting self*
Oh, my gods..... what..... what...... ????!!!!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
you need to refer back to Chapter 1! lol...
I can't believe I just tore right through the first chapters. I need another fix immediately! * taps foot* Lol, actually this is REALLY excellent. I'm quite enjoying it. Dare I surmise that...well no I won't. I'll let myself be surprised.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you so much. next chapter is WIP but shouldn't be long x
Oh WOW he removed the vow ! I want the next chapter immediately!!! You are so evil to withhold it! This was just heartbreaking watching both Hermione and SEverus suffer so. Poor Happy.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
It's carnage, I agree. It has to be. You have to break a few eggs... :)
What??? Oh my. *aughhhh...I have fallen.* Off the cliff I go.*giggle* Let's just say I am enjoying this immensely, and am looking forward to your next thrilling post.Thank you again for sharing~
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I hope this means you enjoyed the chapter. lol! next update wont be as long, i promise.
YOU are a very bad author!!! What's this vow (un unbreakable one?) that he made. To what purpose? YOu better update quickly *stare menacingly at you*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
hehe... *cackles evilly* *makes you wait*
What a delicious diner they had. I'm jealous. *wink*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think I preferred the dessert! Thanks for reading x
I LOVE this chapter!! ANd considering thess two sentences "I’ve never seen him look so bloody edible in my life, and my mouth goes dry.""I feel an urge to lick the exposed flesh"I'm wondering what, precisely, thay are going to eat for diner...
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Haha... With Severus in the house there's only one thing on the menu ;)
Thanks for reading :)