How Severus Spends His Summer Hols

AN: This chapter continues in the same vein as the previous one. Harry and Severus are in this chapter but the main focus is still about Damon and Grant.


Let Your Troubles Roll By


Harry looked at the clock over the stove in his kitchen and realized it was close to noon and Damon hadn't ventured forth out of the room he'd taken for his stay with them. Frowning, the young wizard decided that he needed to get the older man to stop moping around the house missing Grant.

He pulled the coffee out of the refrigerator and dumped twice the normal amount into the filter basket and hoped the aroma would do the trick to get the cranky old fart out of the bedroom. Severus and Grant both claimed if you were to cut Damon Wolffe, he'd bleed coffee and the man had yet to have his first cup of the day.

Harry sat back down at the kitchen table with his notepad and pen, working on the marketing list for Clangman's, wistfully missing some of the foods he was used to having while he'd been in Britain and Scotland. Even Sev would grumble from time to time about not having a certain something he was craving at the moment.

Damon rolled over on the bed, looked out the window and into the back yard of the Overlook. It had been a little over two weeks since he had been tossed out of his home and had left his husband behind. He ran a hand over his shaggy hair and shook his head. If he, Sev and Lee had to cut their hair, what was being done to his Grant? He groaned and closed his eyes trying to dispel the image of his grief-ravaged love lying in the hospital bed.

He got out of bed and opened the door to go down to the bathroom and was assaulted by the rich scent of strong coffee. He smiled wistfully, went to do his business then back in the bedroom. He wasn't up to being sociable today. He nearly had the door closed when Bezoar ran into the room with Asphodel hot on his heels.

The smaller one of the pair of dachshunds, Bezoar, had warmed to him faster than Asphodel. He ran straight to Damon, hid behind his feet and looked up at him with sad eyes as if pleading to be saved from his brother. Asphodel stopped in front of him and snarled at Damon.

The former Marine rolled his eyes and growled back at the chubbier puppy and bent to pick up Bezoar. "Good way to get stepped on and become a grease spot, pup." He stroked the dark fur and Bezoar's eyes closed as he tried to lick the stroking fingers.

Apparently Asphodel took offense to this and began barking and growling even louder. So Damon growled and barked back at him just to see what would happen next.

Asphodel promptly strutted over to Damon's boots and lifted a leg, looking back slyly at the human.

"I don't think so you half excuse for a dog." Damon growled and stepped forward, tucking Bezoar under his arm. "I'll bet Severus could use essence of wiener dog for something. Harry's got two of them and wouldn't miss the snarly one." He jerked up his boots, saved at the last moment and hollered out. "Harry, Asphodel's pissing in the floor!" He smirked at the dog then sighed. Pitiful, reduced to a 'pissing contest’ with a four pound barking irritant, Damon shook his head and sat on the corner of the bed stroking Bezoar's slick fur.

Harry came up the stairs as fast as he could, wand in one hand and a rolled newspaper in the other. "I'm so sorry Damon, he didn't get your jeans again, did he?" he asked as he swatted at the pup and waved his wand over the mess. He glared down at where the little dog was looking up at him proudly. Muttering under his breath about Asphodel definitely being Sev's dog since Bezoar was well behaved; he looked at Damon and smiled.

"I made some coffee for you if you'd like to come down and have some," he offered and waited to see if the man would leave the safety of the bedroom.

"Grant called earlier, by the way," he said over his shoulder as he left the bedroom with one puppy in his arms to take him out to put in the pen.

Damon looked up at the parting phrase and stood. He set Bezoar down on the floor and took off after the younger man. "Why didn't you come and get me? I was awake. What did he have to say? Can I call him back? Did he say he was alright?" He demanded all this in one breath and then looked at Harry's blinking green eyes. "Sorry. I'd love some coffee, Bit."

Harry stood at the top of the stairs and smiled up at Damon. "He said to let you sleep and you could call him back before one. He said he was alright and missed you," he said and reached out a hand to pat Damon's arm. "Why don't you come downstairs and have something to eat, I think there are some doughnuts left from this morning, if not, there are things for sandwiches."

Harry went on downstairs, a wriggling Asphodel under one arm and Bezoar a few steps behind. It was odd, but both little dogs seemed to realize that they shouldn't be under the pregnant wizard's feet.

"I'll think about it." Damon sighed and looked at his watch. A little less than an hour remained until the deadline Grant had given Harry. He followed the waddling wizard down the stairs and smiled, slightly. He shook his head at the dogs and then moved towards the living room as Harry went into the kitchen. He picked up the phone and dialed his home, hoping Grant would answer. He wasn't in any mood to deal with Rachel this morning.

Harry poured Damon a cup of the strong brew and brought it out to him before he went back through and settled in with his list.

*****

The phone was picked up on the third ring in the master bedroom of the Wolffe house. "Hello?" Grant said as he sat up on the bed and rubbed at his eyes, he'd been resting before he had to leave to take Mourning Dove into town.

Damon sighed. "My Grant." He said softly. "I'm sorry. Did I wake you?"

Grant smiled, not caring that his husband couldn't actually see him. "Hello honey, I wasn't asleep, just resting a little. I called a little while ago and Harry said you were sleeping. Did you work at the bar last night?" he asked as he ran his fingers along the hem of the pillowslip while he listened to Damon.

Damon nodded. "Yes, but there was nothing going on. There was no one in there with school being in session and all." He swallowed. "I miss you, Pet. How much longer?"

Grant closed his eyes, hearing the sadness in Damon's voice. "Soon I hope Damon, maybe another week," he replied softly and waited a moment, the silence hanging heavily on the line. "I need you to not be mad at me, okay?"

Damon closed his eyes. "My Grant. I'm not mad, just tired. I don't like not knowing what's going on in our home and I..." He trailed off for a moment and sighed. "I don't like not being able to care for you when you needed it."

Grant bit his lip and reached out to run his fingers over the small Dreamcatcher he'd made that morning for his husband. "I need you to come and get something, alright? I know you don't sleep well sometimes and maybe this will help," he said softly. He wanted to tell his husband that he'd cut his hair, but as he looked up into the mirror on the dresser and saw his ravaged appearance, he didn't know if he could. "I'll leave it for you on the kitchen porch, okay?"

Damon snorted. "Locked out of my own damn house. I'll be there shortly then, Pet." He sighed and apologized. "Will I get to see you at all?"

Grant paused a moment, he really wanted to see the other man. "Maybe... if Mom is busy, I'll see if Lee will take them shopping instead of me, okay?"

Damon shook his head. "If it has to involve your mother granting us permission and a bitching then I'll not fool with it. I won't make it any harder on Mourning Dove, Magpie and yourself by intruding." He sighed again. "Pet, I'm sorry. I don't mean to be like this. I know you need this, it's just hard to deal with the fact I couldn't provide it for you. Let's just get this over with and get back to our lives. The holidays are coming up and we have lots to do. I am kinda looking forward to one of your lists again."

"What I really need right now is to feel your arms around me, but I agree, dealing with Mom is probably not worth it," he sighed. "I know you don't understand what's going on Damon and I'm sorry for needing this." He smiled at the thought of the holidays and spending it with his family. "We should let Bit cook the dinner on Thanksgiving. Is he feeding you?"

"Don't be sorry, Grant. Get better." Damon growled softly and chuckled. "Bit tries and he's getting better. He'll never learn though if Sev doesn't quit bringing home take out. I've been tempted to show him how to grill shit just to shut Sev up about me staying out of the kitchen. He says; Harry's messes he’ll replace, Mine I have to pay for."

Grant laughed softly and lay back on the pillows. "Why don't you grill for them tonight? I love it when you cook outside," he suggested and then thought of something. "Do they have a grill?" He could hear his Grandmother and knew he'd need to go soon as much as he'd rather stay there and talk to Damon.

"I have no clue, Pet but the idea bears merit." He settled himself back onto the couch, content as he could be for the moment without having the younger man there with him. "I could take him into Wheeling to the Wal Mart. That should be interesting." He chuckled and sighed again. "It's nice to hear you laugh again, my Own. I'd hear more of it, more often. You don't do it near as much as you used to."

"I've just not been myself," he said softly. "I'm sorry. I know I've put you through hell lately and you've not deserved any of it. I'll have to make it up to you as soon as I can." He turned onto his side and pulled Damon's pillow into his arms and listened to his husband breathe over the line. "Would you bring something for me?"

Damon smiled. "I know, Pet, now, no more apologies. We'll make it up to each other." He propped his bared feet up on the coffee table and flexed his toes. "Anything your heart desires, my Own. Just say the words, especially if it's something that will annoy your mother."

Grant couldn't help it; he laughed loudly and covered his mouth quickly. "I'd like the shirt you are wearing right now. I want something that smells like you," he said as he heard a soft knock on the bedroom door. "And peanut butter cups please."

Damon laughed. "There it is. Don't ever hide it away again." He shook his head. "Two bags of them, I promise and the shirt as well, my Grant."

"Thank you Damon. I have to go, but look on the porch, okay?" he said softly as the knocking came again. "I love you so much and I miss you. Good bye."

"I will. I love you as well, Injun. Bye." Damon waited for the click of the line as Grant hung up before replacing the receiver back on the cradle. "Harry?" He sighed and rubbed his face. He picked up the forgotten coffee during his conversation with Grant and sipped. He made a face at the cold, strong, bitter brew and vowed to show Harry the correct way to brew a proper cup. That and to terrorize Sev by teaching the younger man to grill better than the Potions Master. He smirked. Dissention in the ranks and a wiener dog to battle had him cheering slightly now that he had spoken with his Grant.

"Yes Damon?" Harry asked from the kitchen, still sitting and staring at the paper. He was running out of things to cook that he was familiar with. "Did you want some more coffee?" Harry was hoping that maybe talking to Grant would get his father-in-law in better spirits; he hated to rattle around the house afraid to make a noise and disturb the older man.

"No, thanks." Damon shuddered and stood then made his way into the kitchen. He pulled off his shirt and then looked around for a moment. "Let's go shopping, Harry and I need a Ziploc bag for this." He looked at the younger man. "Did Sev take the truck when he went into the shop?"

Harry stood up and pulled a box of the large plastic bags Sev kept for collecting plants down and handed it to Damon. "I think he took the bike Damon. I need to go shopping for some groceries, we are out of lunch meat and fruit," he said and picked up his list. "Do you think pasta and cheese would be alright tonight?"

Damon snorted and shook his head. "Good. Let's go into Wheeling." He folded the worn t-shirt, kissed it and slipped it into the bag then pressed out all the air and sealed it shut. He looked up at Harry and grinned. "Call Sev and tell him not to bring home food tonight. We'll cook dinner and stuff his crow as well."

Harry looked at him wide eyed. "We're cooking? What are we cooking?" he asked as he picked up the phone and dialed Severus' mobile. When he didn't answer, Harry left him a short message, hung up and then looked at Damon. "I'm not feeding him crow even if he does deserve it."

The younger man looked at the bagged shirt under the other man's arm and looked at him questioningly. "Am I doing your laundry wrong, or something?"

Damon chuckled. "He does deserve it and he will have it tonight if I have anything to say about it. So yes, we are cooking tonight. We'll discuss the menu in the truck." He held up a hand to stop a protest from Harry. "Let me get dressed and no, there is nothing wrong with my laundry, Bit. Grant asked for a shirt and that's what that is." He paused for a moment and thought. "Has Severus purchased a grill?"

Harry looked at him blankly for a moment and then shook his head. "Not that I know of Damon. You aren't serious, they don't sell crow in the market... do they?" he asked skeptically. If he were leaving the house, he needed to bring the pups in and put them in the laundry room with their food and water. "Could you get the dogs while I put their food down for them?"

Damon threw his head back and laughed. "Merlin no, Harry. I was talking about his attitude about our cooking. He crows about it all the time and yet can't be assed to help you learn something besides what Grant has shown you. So, what I thought we would do tonight is grill." He eyed Harry, his own blue eyes sparkling with humour and something that might be considered good intentioned malice. "Sev does a pretty good brisket but what I was thinking of was maybe some seafood or ribs, something along those lines. Sound good to you?" He grinned. "Grant may be a master of the kitchen but nothing can compare with my grilling skills. And I have just decided to show you how to make Sev eat every one of his comments about your cooking."

Harry grinned back and nodded. That sounded like a wonderful idea to him, he was tired of being told he did well... for certain things. "It can't be that hard, can it?" he asked as he filled the dogs' dishes and set them on the floor of the laundry room. "Chicken would be good, wouldn't it?"

Damon went to the back door and whistled shrilly. The pup's ears raised and they came running although Asphodel a bit slower than Bezoar. He scooped up the smaller dog and ruffled its ears while ignoring Asphodel as the dog barked at his heels. "Chicken is fine. You can make just about anything on the grill and it's fairly easy." He handed the dog to Harry. "Just let me get a new shirt and my boots then we'll go." He chuckled and shook his head. "Grab your list cause I know Grant got you started making them."

Harry dumped the pup in the laundry room and scooted the other one in with his foot before he shut the door. He grabbed his list and stuffed in his pocket with a sheepish grin. "They seem to help keep me organized. I'm ready, I'll wait for you outside," he said as he walked out the back door and over to look around at where Severus had told him they would be putting in an herb garden in the spring.

The young man looked around the back yard, one hand resting on his swollen tummy and he wondered just how a swing would look hanging from a limb of the big oak tree over there, or a playhouse under the walnut tree. Harry smiled to himself and looked up into the late fall sky, watching the geese flying high and listening to the sounds of their distant honking.

Damon nodded and tromped up the stairs then pulled on a new t-shirt from his bag and shoved his feet into his boots. He ran a comb through the blond locks then made his way down the stairs and outside. He watched Harry for a moment and shook his head. How often had he wanted to see Grant standing like that on their porch but it had never happened. He sighed and put on a smile for Harry. "Let's go Bit. It's quite a drive to Wheeling."

"Yes sir," Harry said and opened up the passenger door on the big truck and made his slow climb up into the cab, muttering something about Severus needing to put a step there for him. "Why are we going all the way into Wheeling?" He got settled finally in his seat and pulled the seatbelt down across his chest and over his belly. Harry was a little nervous going out of Echo now that he was showing, but he figured if all else failed, he could give his list to Damon and wait in the truck.

Damon watched Harry climb into the truck. "Next time don't be so stubborn and I'll help you into the truck." He slid into the seat and buckled his own belt then adjusted Harry's more comfortably around the protruding belly. "The Wal Mart's in Wheeling and while Clangman's has lots of things they don't always carry the more elusive items."

Harry smiled and hoped he might be able find some of the tea Severus liked and some of the foods he missed eating. He looked down at his belly and sighed. "We'll have to do something about the Bump though, I'm too thin for it to be a potbelly," he said and scratched an itchy spot. He leaned forward and pushed a button on the stereo until he found a station he liked that was playing classic eighties music.

Damon cringed at the pop music playing from the radio and looked at Harry before backing the big Dodge out of the drive. "You're a wizard, aren't ya? Cast a glamour unless you want me to do it for you?" He let the steering wheel slide through his hands enjoying the way the big truck handled as he headed for the freeway. His POS had about had it but it was the first truck he had bought and paid for with his own money and it was kept around now for little more than to irritate Grant on occasion. He couldn't get rid of the thing.

"I used to cast a charm on Grant when we first met so we could go to the moving pictures together." He chuckled realizing how dated he sounded and resisted the urge to change the station to the classic rock station.

Harry shrugged, he didn’t' want to admit he was a little leery about using his own magic on his body now since the last time he'd done a spell to gently warm the blankets ended in them smouldering. "It might be better if you did it Damon, you can see me and can make it look good," he said and hoped it sounded good. "What sort of charm did you use on him?" He reached out and turned up a particular song, singing along softly under his breath.

"Magic gone a bit wonky? How about a Notice-Me-Not charm over the little one?" Damon chuckled. "The first time I turned him into a white woman. He let me have the rough side of his tongue; let me tell you in Lakhota no less. Didn't understand a damn thing he said." He shook his head. "After that we worked it so he looked like Magpie only older. My mother perfected Gracie once Grant moved here from South Dakota."

Harry shook his head, he couldn't imagine what Grant had gone through to stay with his Marine, but he'd learned his lesson and would watch his tongue. "Grant was just a kid when you met him, right?" he asked and reached out to turn the radio off since it had gotten staticy in the past few miles.

Damon grinned. "He was all of sixteen the first time I saw him, yes. A scrawny Indian out on the plains chasing a wayward cow." He smiled wistfully. "It was nineteen fifty-one." He looked at Harry. "Dates us, doesn't it?"

Harry laughed and tried to imagine Severus pursuing him when he'd been that age, he couldn't fathom it. He looked at Damon and grinned. "I can't imagine what that could have been like. Was it love at first sight?" he asked as he squirmed around and got comfortable. "Do you mind if we stop for something to eat along the way? Severus gave me money for marketing, I could maybe spend a dollar or two on some chips or something."

Damon chuckled. "No, not quite. Grant chased and alternately ran from me for a few months before a blizzard forced us together." He nodded and exited the freeway. "Where would you like to go Bit? You'll eat more than just chips. Grant would kick my ass if I let you eat nothing but junk. You can have a sandwich with your chips." He eyed the road signs. "We have McDonalds, Blimpie's and a Wendy's at this exit."

Harry made a face as he considered what he might want to eat. "Actually nothing fried. I can’t imagine Severus having an interest in me at that age. If anyone had said I'd be where I am now whilst I'd been in school, I'm sure that they would have ended up hexed repeatedly," he laughed. "I saw pictures of you in your uniform. I can see why Grant fell for you."

"Thank you, Harry. A uniform makes any man look good. Severus is quite striking in his Potions Master finery as well. Have you ever seen him like that?" Damon chuckled. "Yes, we heard many stories of your misadventures over the years. Imagine our surprise when he informed us he had taken up with you." He pulled up in front of Blimpie's. "They make sandwiches here, fresh, to your specifications. You can get a sub with just about anything you like on it but their BLT is excellent and you can get your chips as well." He turned in the seat. Would you like me to try and find something else?"

"Yes, I've seen him in his formal robes and I'll be the first to admit he makes my heart beat faster," he grinned shyly and looked out the window at the small eatery. "This will be fine, thank you sir, I'll just be a moment getting my food." He released his seat belt and opened his door to slide out. Harry bloused his jumper a bit to make it hang better on him and started for the door, the smells coming from within making him mouth water and his stomach growl. He'd be as quick as he could and back in the truck without inconveniencing Damon in any way.

Damon realized he was hungry and hadn't cast the charm on Harry, yet. He aimed his wand at Harry from the truck and then slid out to make certain the boy didn't get into any trouble. "Wait on me, Harry. I'm an old man." He chuckled and jogged to the door to open it for the younger man. "I'm starving as well. I think we can take a few minutes to eat."

Harry paused as the tingle of magic washed over him and he let the older man guide him in the building with a hand pressed to the small of his back. "Yes sir, Damon," he said and stepped into line behind others waiting at the counter. He studied the menu board and was confused a bit by the American money; he was still new to actually paying for things himself. Once at the counter, he ordered a half BLT because the other man had suggested it and a glass of water, paying quickly and stepping out of Damon's way.

Damon ordered an entire foot long BLT plus chips and a large Dr. Pepper. He carried the tray over to a table and scooted into the bench seat. He eyed Harry's lunch and shook his head. "Is that going to be enough, Bit? You didn't get your chips." He unwrapped the long sandwich, picked up one half and began to eat.

Harry looked at what Damon was eating and smiled. "Those are crisps, not chips Damon. I'll be fine sir, thank you for asking," he said with a laugh and began to eat slowly. He discovered he rather liked the sandwich and would have to remember this place when he was out with Severus. Harry watched the people coming in and the traffic outside and liked the fact no one was paying him the least bit of attention.

Damon nodded. "And I supposed there are other fancy names for things we across the pond call things?" He held out the bag of chips to Harry. "Cheddar and sour cream and Grant never allows me have them.” He chuckled.

Harry reached out and quickly snatched them out of the man's hand. "Then I'll speak up for Grant. No. You can't have them Damon... what do they taste like?" he asked curiously and looked into the bag at the orange-ish coloured potato slices. "They look... unnatural."

Damon stared at Harry. "Give those back." He took the bag from the younger man. "If Grant can have a stash of cookie dough then I can feed my potato chip addiction." He snorted and held the bag out to Harry again, but made certain to hold tighter to it this time. "Exactly what I said they tasted like, cheddar cheese and sour cream, and these are light tasting; don’t let the colour fool you.”

Harry wrinkled his nose and pulled back. "No thank you, Damon, I'm fine," he said and took the last bite of his sandwich. "Grant is hiding cookie dough? Why?"

“Suit yourself but I am telling you, you don't know what you are missing. Course the sour cream and onion ones are just as good. Plain is okay but you have to have French onion dip with them.” Damon finished off the first half of his sandwich and then took a long pull on the soda. "Because he is an evil sadistic man, Harry. Don't let the small size distract you." He chuckled and picked up the second half of his sandwich.

Harry laughed and shook his head. "I can't imagine Grant being evil and sadistic Damon, I mean really. Grant?" he chuckled, reaching into his pocket and then sliding off of the bench and went back to the counter to order a cookie. He came back as Damon was partially through the last of his sandwich.

Damon just raised an eyebrow at Harry. "You don't know the half of it, Harry. Damn near fifty years that we have been married and I often wonder which one of us is truly the sadist." He finished off his sandwich and leaned back in the bench. "He just looks all cute and innocent. It helps that he's small. Dynamite comes in small packages, Bit. Take yourself as an example as well."

Harry shrugged, he had to agree, people did tend to underestimate him because he was little. "True enough, I suppose I just can't see Grant being mean to anyone," he said as he finished his cookie. "How much do we need to get in Wheeling? Did you still need to go by your house?"

"He's sly about it. It's why he and Severus get along so well." Damon chuckled and gathered up the trash. "You ready?" He stood and waited on Harry to manoeuvre his body out of the chair. "We'll need to get the things on your list plus a grill and whatever we wish to cook for dinner as well as some peanut butter cups for Grant. After we have those then we'll go by the house. Wheeling's not too much farther." He ushered Harry back outside to the truck where he opened the door, scooped up and swung the smaller man into the cab then grinned at him. "You don't weigh nothing just like Grant.

Harry nearly squawked as he was settled in his seat, he wasn't expecting the other man to swing him up. "I can manage Damon, you don't have to, I don't want you to hurt your back or something," he protested as the other man securely buckled him in. He waited until Damon got in and spoke once more. "Damon, what's it like being married for so long?"

Damon snorted. "Harry, the day I can't lift a little thing like you or my husband will be the day they bury me in the ground. I may be old but I am not that damn old." He started the truck up and got them back out on the freeway. "It's hard work and there will be times that you feel like you want to hex Severus and I am certain he will feel the same way but if you want it and fight for what you have, there is no other way to live. I have no idea what I would do if something were to happen to Grant. Bitch and argue as we might I don't want to do that with anyone else but him."

"I can't imagine either one of you with anyone else," Harry laughed and wriggled around in his seat, looking out at the passing scenery. "I hope that Severus and I are as happy as you two are after so long. I can't imagine going through what Grant did."

Pain clenched Damon's heart and he had to swallow back for a moment then he sighed. "I hope not either, Harry. Max is a good doctor and Healer. Times have changed and we'll all be there for you, Bit." he looked over at the smaller man and smiled sadly. "I think you will be alright Harry. Just remember to fight for what you want. Grant and I had some hellacious times but the good outweighs the bad."

Harry sucked his breath in sharply, "I... I'm sorry Damon, I didn't mean about... that," he stammered, he'd meant having to dress in women's clothing. "I'll just belt up now. I'm sorry." He turned his head and stared out the window, mentally berating himself for his stupidity.

Damon reached over and patted Harry's leg. "It's alright, Harry. As for anything else that occurred between Grant and I well, that was also a sign of the times." He smirked at the younger man. "However I do think you would be lovely in some feminine finery. Just the right touch of make up and a pretty frock." He winked at Harry.

Harry shook his head quickly and blushed. Severus had said he didn't want him in a frock; he wouldn't listen to Damon would he? "Damon, may I ask a question?"

"Go ahead, Bit." Damon chuckled. "I am just teasing you Harry, no one is going to ask you to dress as a woman."

Harry smiled sheepishly at that and then looked at the other man. "Why does Grant look... I don't know... girlier than I do? Will I change too?"

Damon sighed, trying to think of an easy way to explain to Harry about the winkte. "Grant looks more feminine because he was raised differently than most young men. Do you remember how the Indians treated you when we were out on the res? Grant grew up being treated like that and he is most likely going to let me have the rough side of his tongue if he finds out I told you but you need to know. Put this insecurity to rest. Besides that Grant spent four years as Gracie all the time. He was conditioned to look and act the part of my wife so we could be together while I was in the service."

He pulled off of the freeway at their exit, pulled into the Wal-Mart parking lot and navigated the big truck to a parking space. "You may end up looking a little curvier after this pregnancy but that was a given when Max fixed your hips."

"Nothing against Grant, because he's great, but I don't want to act like a woman," Harry said softly as he released his seat belt as Damon shut the truck off. "I like being me, I just wanted to be sure... you know?" He hoped he wasn't putting his foot in his mouth again. "I can't imagine being treated like that all of the time." He waited until Damon was out the truck before he got out on his side.

Damon chuckled. "And so you shouldn't." He sighed. "Severus wouldn't be with you if you did. He was awful jealous of Allie when she first came round, thought she was going to keep Max from seeing him when he visited and then having to fight off Jo." He shook his head and laughed. "No, I think he's had enough of females all together."

"Good," Harry said as they entered the huge Supercenter and each grabbed a cart. "Are we splitting up or what?" He pulled the list out of his pocket and looked down the aisles with a smile. Surely they should have some of the things Sev had been wanting.

Damon raised an eyebrow. "You have got to be kidding me. I don't even let Grant loose in this store. Somebody would walk over top of him and there would be nothing left but a grease spot. We'll stick together and I'll push the buggy. It's the job Grant gives me, that and to whip out my credit card." He chuckled. "Unless you need to push it?"

Harry looked at his cart and then at his list. "I think I'll need one all by myself and you said you wanted to get a grill, right?" he asked and grinned at the idea of Grant giving orders. He put his hand in his jeans pocket; patting the money Severus had given him for shopping. He thought he'd have enough.

Damon nodded and grabbed his cart then leaned close to Harry. "Let's get the cold food items last. Can't cast a cooling charm until we are out of the store. It fucks with the security system for some reason." He stood and smiled at Harry. "Lead on, Bit. We'll have them put the grill together here so we can start getting things ready to cook when we get home."

Harry set off down the first aisle, thrilled to find the kind of bread he knew Severus liked to have and the right marmalade just across the way. He quickly found Severus' tea, some biscuits he thought he'd like and several more things he knew the older man had been missing.

Scanning his list and looking in the cart, he was startled to find that he'd only managed to get a few of the things actually on his list and he wasn't so sure about the amount of money he had now. Instead of putting things back, he began to mentally cross things off as unneeded or thinking of things he could get instead.

He chattered with Damon, laughing at the older man's jokes and following him to the meat department for the evening's meal and the other meat Harry needed to get. He looked at the prices and swallowed hard. He wasn't going to be getting milk, juice, fruit, or a few other things, but it would be alright.

Damon looked at the steaks and ribs then remembered Harry said he wanted chicken. He looked at the other man and shook his head. He had an idea of what was going through his head and was going to slap Sev when he got home for not giving the boy a crash course in American money. He picked up the breasts and grabbed a couple of T-bones as well as a slab of ribs then moved over to the seafood department. He was contemplating the prawns and looked over at Harry again. "Bit, you like seafood?"

Harry nodded absently as he compared prices and did what he thought was the best he could. He was hoping he'd be able to figure out how to make a roast; it should be simple. "Yes Damon, but I don't eat it often. What should I get for tonight or is that it there?" He pointed to the meat in the cart Damon was pulling behind him.

"This is it, Harry." Damon answered and moved to eye Harry's list. "You're missing some things. We passed them a few aisles back." He turned his cart to go back for the items. "Come on Harry, we need to get the grill as well. I'll just put it together when we get back to the house."

The younger man quickly folded the paper in his hand and stuffed it in his pocket, his face reddening a bit as he cleared his throat. "I forgot that I had those already Damon, let's go get the grill now," he said and turned to go the other direction.

Damon raised an eyebrow at him. "Harry, come back here. Let me see that list."

Harry walked on as if he didn't hear the older man, he could feel his face burning and he gripped the push bar of the cart tightly. The last thing he wanted was to check out and not have enough to pay for everything...no, the very last thing he wanted was for Damon to have to pay for it because he couldn't.

Damon reached out and grabbed his arm. "Don't walk away as if you haven't heard me." He looked down at the smaller man. "Don't get upset now. Why didn't you tell me Sev didn't give you enough or do you not know the conversion rates?"

Harry shook his head, "No Damon, really, I forgot I had those things at home, I don't need them. I have enough, alright? Please, let's just go find this grill now," he begged quietly. "Please Damon." He pulled away from the other man and bit his lip.

Damon looked around the aisle where they stopped. He grabbed Harry again and pulled him into the bathroom, leaving their baskets behind. He stuck the closed for cleaning sign outside and closed the door then locked it. "Harry, the fruit and the lunch meat you told me we were out of are on that list. I know better than that and it's not your fault if Sev didn't give you enough money for everything. Understand?"

Harry shook his head and looked up at Damon. "I found things he's been missing and I got them for him. I don't need some of the stuff on my list Damon, I promise I don't. Please, let's just finish. He didn't know I was coming here, he thought I was going to Clangman's and they don't have his things there," he said quickly, making excuses and trying to get Damon to understand.

Damon pulled Harry to him and held him tightly. "Shh, Bit. Calm down. It's just shopping." He stroked the dark hair and kissed the top of Harry's head. He was going to smack Sev when they got home for not giving the boy extra in case there was something he wanted. "Tell you what. You get the things Sev misses and I'll get the rest of the stuff on the list since I am eating it as well." He tipped Harry's face up and looked into the green eyes. "No sense in getting all upset over a few groceries."

Harry swallowed and licked his lips. "I've got your coffee sir, you're taken care of. Can we go now?" he asked as he unlocked the door and pulled away from Damon. He knew his face was crimson from being upset and ashamed.

"Not until you wash your face and give me the list." Damon folded his arms across his chest and looked at Harry. "You need to eat better than Dolly Madison in the mornings and KFC in the evenings. I can pack away the food Harry and can help out with its purchase as well. If it makes you feel better I will get the money back from Sev once we get home."

"He won't be upset, will he?" he asked softly and stepped to the sink, running cold water. "I really don't need anything for me Damon, really. Just get what you'd like, alright?"

"He better not because I'll tan his hide. He should know better and give you extra because you never know what could happen." Damon sighed. "Look Harry, Grant and I went through this as well. Now let me tell you what I did to him. He would go by and purchase the store brands, which in and of itself is not a problem. However I had given him enough money to buy the things we needed and extra in case he wanted something."

He chuckled. "I made him go back through the aisles and but back the stuff he was supposedly saving money on and get the things he wanted, brand names and all. Several times this happened."

Damon tipped up Harry's face and carefully dried it with the paper towels. "Let it go, Bit. Life's too short to worry over things like this. Save the heartache for something serious.”

“Get what's on your list and make certain it's what you want. Don't settle for second best when someone can help you out. That's what we're here for. We are family, Bit and that's what family does."

"I just don't want him to think I'm wasting his money on things I don't need," he said as he gave the other man a strained smile. "Severus was saying that Grant ate peanut butter sandwiches for nearly thirty years to save on buying lunchmeat for his lunches."

"He won't. I'll chase his ass around the yard with my belt if he says one word to you." Damon scowled. "I told you he was sly but you didn't listen to me. Did Sev also tell you that he did just to irritate me?" He growled softly and then shook his head.

"Sometimes money was tight due to the economy but we've never really wanted for anything. I gave him money each day for his meals because he was interning and completing his doctorate and he squirreled it away only to stick it back in my wallet after I had gone to sleep. Took me forever to catch him at it." He sighed. "Harry, that also goes back to how he was raised. You saw the res and that's all I am going to say about it."

"I understand, I won't ask anything more," Harry said and fished his list out of his pocket along with the cash Severus had given him, handing it all to the older man. "Here sir, I'm worried I might bodge it all up." He remembered what Pine Ridge had been like and knew that Grant had come up amazingly in the world. "We should probably finish so we can get back to make supper."

Damon nodded and counted the money then looked at the list as they left the bathroom. "When we get home you get a money matters lesson." He led them to the Gardening center where, Damon quickly picked out a grill and added the extra supplies he needed to the cart and set the associate to putting the thing together while they finished the shopping.

Once everything on the list had been bought plus Grant's two bags of peanut butter cups, Damon loaded up the truck and drove around to have the grill added to their haul. Back on the freeway, Damon looked over at Harry. "Need to stop and get you a snack?"

Harry shook his head and pulled one of the bags out of the back seat, reaching in to get a packet of crackers. "I'm fine, but maybe something to drink, if you don't mind?" he asked as he opened the wrapper and offered it to Damon first before biting into one.

Damon shook his head but pulled off the freeway and went through the drive through at another fast food place for drinks. "So, what all would you like to make for dinner tonight?" he asked after they got back on the interstate.

Harry shrugged as he took a long drink of his soda. "I don't care really. Something easy. A salad is easy and so are potatoes. That pretty well covers my requirements from Max, right?" he asked as he popped another cracker in his mouth. He personally didn't really care if he became a whiz in the kitchen like Grant. He liked to cook things Severus would eat, but he wasn't too arsed to make everything into a culinary ordeal.

"Easy it is." Damon nodded as they came back into Echo. He turned the truck first towards then farm and reached into the back seat to get his shirt. He pulled up into their drive and just looked at the house for a moment. He took a deep breath, got out of the truck and dug through the sacks to get the requested candy. He set the packages on the rocking chair and smiled sadly. Hanging on a nail was a small dream catcher.

With a catch in his throat, Damon thought about the one they had just destroyed and the one he watched Grant make. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, bringing the small comfort to his chest. He stood there for a moment while he got his emotions under control and made his way back out to the truck carefully wiping his face.

Grant stood in the kitchen, far enough back that Damon couldn't see him through the curtains, but the small man could see his husband. "I want to talk to him," he said softly and turned to his sister. "Could you go and tell him I miss him?"

Maggie nodded and opened the back door after she heard Grant leave the kitchen. "Damon," she called out the man's back.

Damon looked up and back at the house. "Maggie May." He started back to the house to her.

The stout little woman stepped out of the house and closed the door behind her. "Brother," she said softly and waited for him to join her on the porch. "Grant wanted me to come out and check on you." She looked the white man over and shook her head at how tired and rundown he seemed to be.

Damon smiled down at her. "I'll live, Magpie as I always have. Just make him better." He reached out and caressed her cheek. "Give that to him for me please."

"You look like hell, Damon. Why isn't Sev's winyan looking after you?" she chided as she pulled him down into a hug and ran her fingers through the shaggy hair.

Damon chuckled and hugged her tightly. "Sev doesn't have a winyan, Magpie. Harry's a man just like Sev and I. He's not meant to be Grant." He met her eyes. "Besides, I have a winyan and no one takes his place."

She nodded at that and then looked up into the sad blue eyes. "You'll get your winyan back soon, he's almost where he needs to be Damon. A few more days and he'll come for you," she said and smiled. "He made our reservations home just a little while ago."

Damon nodded. "Thank you Magpie. Thank Mourning Dove for me as well." He sighed then smiled at her. "I am sorry it took this for you to come and see us here."

"I know Damon. Grandmother doesn't want to go home now, she says she wants to stay and be spoiled," she laughed sadly. Both knowing that although it was said in a joking manner, the ancient woman would be better there in West Virginia. "Maybe you'd like to keep her around for a while, keep her out of our hair."

Damon's eyes widened. "Merlin, Magpie. You are trying to kill me aren't you?" He chuckled and shook his head. "You know you are welcome anytime and be careful going back." He kissed her forehead and stepped back off the porch then bowed and blew a kiss to the house. "I love you, my Grant." He said loudly, hoping the man would hear him and to irritate Rachel as well.

Grant heard his husband and quickly picked up the telephone, hitting the button for Damon's mobile phone.

Damon snatched the ringing phone off his belt loop and grinned as he headed back for the truck and Harry. "Yes, my Injun." He said softly.

"I love you too, Damon," he said as he nearly ran past where his mother was sitting and into his bedroom where he shut the door. He lay across the mattress on his stomach and fingered his short hair as he listened to Damon breathe. "I heard you."

"Good. Shall I shout it out again?" Damon chuckled. "Want me to cast a Sonorous and call it out to the mountains? Shall I carve it again on the old bridge?" His grin widened and he stopped just outside the truck and held up a hand to Harry. He turned back to the porch and Magpie. "Your requested items are on the back porch."

Maggie lifted a hand to wave, she knew who was on the phone and she knew Grant needed the older man like crops needed rain. She picked up the bags of candy and the packaged shirt before she disappeared back into the house.

"Thank you Damon. I miss you so much. The bed seems so empty without you in it," he murmured as Maggie opened the bedroom door, coming in just far enough to lay the items down on the bed and then left after swatting her brother's butt.

Grant clutched at the shirt and felt the tears running down his cheeks. "I got their tickets home a little bit ago."

"Magpie told me, baby." Damon smiled. "You are welcome, my Own. I miss you as well. I'll be home as soon as you come and get me." He sighed and headed for the truck again. "My bed at Sev's is not near warm enough either. Get better for us, Grant. I'll be waiting no matter what."

Grant opened the bag of peanut butter cups, unwrapping several pieces and stuffing them in his mouth. "Did you and Harry have a good day?" he asked, pointedly ignoring the woman on the other side of his door who was telling him to get off the phone. He was going to talk to his husband whether his mother liked it or not.

Damon chuckled at the garbled question. "Yeah. Remind me to beat Sev for not giving the boy a large enough house account." He slid into the truck and began to back out of the drive, carefully. "We got the grill and everything to make dinner tonight."

"I wish I were there, I love it when you grill," Grant said wistfully as he buried his face in his husband's shirt and inhaled his scent. "I suppose I should let you drive, shouldn't I?" He sighed and rolled over to his back, looking up at the new Dreamcatcher.

Damon grinned. "Yes, I suppose. May I call back later tonight?" He turned onto Copperhead Road and smiled at Harry. "We'll be at the Overlook in a bit, Pet."

Grant nodded, then remembered Damon couldn't see him. "Yes, but call late, everyone will be watching television or asleep, okay?" he asked as he glared at his door and the sounds of his mother on the other side.

"Will do, my Own. Behave now and remember I love you." Damon sighed as he slowed the truck down the drive.

"I love you too," Grant said and hung the phone up before he rolled to a sitting position to go deal with his mother.

Harry was quiet as Damon talked on the phone, looking out the window and trying not to eavesdrop on the couple. The house came in view and so did Severus' big Harley setting out front and the raven haired wizard sitting on the front porch with a bottle of beer in one hand, a potions journal in his other. As soon as the truck stopped, Harry was opening his door and headed to his man.

"I found your tea, Husband, in Wheeling," he said as he held a bag out to him.

Severus looked up at Harry then out to the truck at Damon. He smiled at Harry and nodded. "Thank you, Harry. But you didn't have to drag Damon all the way out to Wheeling to do the marketing." He took the bag and pulled Harry into his arms.

Damon climbed out of the truck and began unloading their purchases. "Get over here, Sev and help."

"I... I'm sorry," Harry said quietly and took the bag into the house, leaving the door open for the men to bring the other bags in.

Severus set his reading material and beer down and walked over to his truck and looked at the mountain of bags. "Damn Damon, did you buy most of Wheeling?" he asked with a laugh while he reached out to grab several heavy bags.

Damon cuffed Severus around his head and tore into his son. "Don't take that tone with me, boy and you go apologize to Harry as well. He thinks you are going to be upset with him because he didn't have enough money to get the things he needed and the things he knew you were missing." He looked at Severus. "I know you have an account at Clangman’s but you left him without the proper guidance to the American currency as well as no contingency plan if something were to happen in an emergency and it upset him that I helped."

He cleared his throat. "I know I shouldn't be interfering in your business but he don't need to be upset over some damn groceries. He was about to pull a Grant."

Severus stood up straighter and looked down at Damon. "Excuse me? I wasn't aware you had planned to take him to Wheeling, all you had to do was come by the shop and I would have been happy to give him more money to get whatever his heart desired," he said and turned his head to the house. "What do I owe you?"

Damon raised an eyebrow. "I hadn't planned on it but he wanted to make pasta and cheese for dinner and I knew you would bitch about it. I've about had it with you bringing home take out and then griping about it to him. It doesn’t help matters. He's doing the best he can and doesn't want to be a problem."

Severus pulled his wallet from his back pocket and after looking at the load of items; he withdrew several large bills and tucked them into Damon's breast pocket before hefting several sacks and turning for the house. "I apologize that we are not offering you the same standard of fare that you are accustomed to."

Damon grabbed his arm and pulled the money from his pocket. He sighed and held out the bills to his son. "I'm not trying to be an ass Severus and it's not like that. I never expected you to foot the bill for me staying and neither one of you would take the money I left on the table." He looked up at Severus. "I just wanted to help. Although I'll stand by what I said. You never know when something could happen out here."

Severus looked down at Damon and pushed the money away. "There is money in the bedroom, Harry knows exactly where it is, he also knows he has the right to use it if he wishes to for any reason," he said tersely, he understood Damon was worried about Harry, but he also knew Harry had access to anything he wanted. "I apologize that you had to pay for his purchases, it shan't happen again."

"Alright, but did you tell him it was alright to use it?" Damon shook his head and tossed the money on the ground. "I don't give a damn about the fucking groceries, Sev. I am worried about the boy in there being upset that he's going to do something wrong and you are going to be angry with him." He eyed the other man. "I didn't mean to upset you so calm down and think about it, Sev. Keep in mind he's pregnant."

"Harry has been told to use that when he goes out with Grant or Allie, it's as much for me to use as it is for him as spending money Damon. I suggest you pick that up before it blows away in this breeze," Severus said and picked up the same bags once more. "I'll deal with Harry." He turned and began to the house once more.

"Drop the shit, Sev." Damon shook his head and reached out to grab Severus once more. "Not like that you won't. Take it out on me; I can handle it. He can't. What happened today?"

"I have had a very long and trying day dealing with dunderheads and morons Damon. I simply wish to relax, eat whatever, have a few drinks, and go to bed," he said as he looked down at the hand on his arm. "I am not angry with Harry, I am just going to remind him that he has funds he can use for whatever he chooses."

Damon nodded. "I understand. But you are angry and don't need to speak with him like that. He won't understand." He eyed his son and shook his head. "You can have your drinks and what have you because Harry and I are going to make dinner here in a bit but not until you calm down some."

Harry watched from the window and rocked back and forth on his feet, his anxiety level rising with each passing moment. He could tell his husband was angry and so was Damon. He'd not been given any instructions, so he quietly opened the front door and made his was unobtrusively to the other side of the truck where he quickly reached into the bed and grabbed several bags, hurrying back to the house before either man could yell at him for misbehaving.

"Whatever you wish Damon," Severus said with a shake of his head. "I hadn't planned to take anything out on my husband, but I don't like the fact he didn't use the money that we have for expenditures."

Damon sighed. "Look Severus." He pointed to the house where Harry was scurrying back indoors. "We've scared him again. He's still not used to everything out here. You should have seen him in Wal-Mart. He was so excited to find the things you both have been missing from Scotland, that he was going to forgo the stuff he needed so you could have the specialty items. You may think he knows something but until you actually give him permission, he isn't going to do it."

He eyed his son. "You remember calling us when things would happen with him? This is probably something like that. His world has been rocked again, Severus. He's just reacting to the situation.”

Severus followed Damon's finger and sighed. This was not how he'd wanted to spend his evening. He didn't need Harry to have an episode tonight; he just didn't think he could deal with it. "I'll go talk to him," he said in a quieter tone. "Thank you for making sure he got what he needed Damon." He gave the other man a tight smile.

In the kitchen, Harry was putting things away as neatly and as quickly as he could, dragging a kitchen chair over to climb on to put some things away on the top shelves of the cupboards. He was trying to get everything done so Severus wouldn't think he'd neglected his house chores and simply went running off with Damon.

Damon eyed his son and shook his head. He let Severus go because nothing was going to get through to the other man until he stuck his foot in his mouth and choked on it. He turned back to the truck and pulled his wand to unload the grill from the truck.

Severus walked into the house with the bag of groceries, letting the door slam shut behind him. He saw Harry standing on a chair at the counter. "Harry! What are you doing? Get down."

Harry started at the sound of the door slamming, he jumped in the chair, making it rock under his feet. Reaching out to steady himself, he put the box he was holding on the shelf. "Yes Husband," he said and stepped down to the floor. Spotting the bags Severus had in his hands, Harry hurried forward to get them. "I'll put these away sir."

Severus eyes widened at Harry as the chair wobbled. He deposited the bags on the counter and wrapped his hands around Harry's shoulders, squeezing him in his fright. "What were you doing on the chair? You could have fallen and hurt yourself and the baby as well."

Green eyes looked up at Severus. "I was only trying to put things away Husband," he whispered and winced at the squeezing of his shoulders. "I didn't want you to think me lazy for going with Damon today." He bowed his head and worried at his lower lip. "I'm sorry."

Severus pulled Harry to him and closed his eyes. He really didn't want to deal with an episode tonight, especially with Damon here. The last time, Grant and Max had been here to help and he wasn't certain he could deal with the pair of them at the same time. "You scared me, Harry."

Harry sighed softly as he was held tightly. "I didn't mean to scare you, I was only trying to put things away and I couldn't reach that high. I thought if I put your things up high then I wouldn't be into them," he said by way of an explanation; well it made sense to him. "I ran out of the money you gave me for marketing, I'm sorry, but Damon paid for this." He felt better after he confessed his transgressions to the other man and slumped down a bit in relief.

Severus shook his head. "Harry, everything I have is for you, you know that. I'll not keep anything from you." He sighed and looked down at Harry. "There was extra money in the bedroom if you needed it. You could have come by the shop as well if you needed more than what I left here this morning." He said somewhat sternly.

Harry bit his lip. "I didn't know how much I would need. I thought I would have enough, but I had a sandwich on the way," he said, the small meal he'd eaten was now laying like a rock in his gut. "I just... I just saw the things I knew you liked... and I... I'm sorry. I tried to not let Damon pay."

Severus tipped up the sad little face. "Harry..." He sighed. He didn't know what to say. He had thought they had moved past the stage where Harry had been afraid to eat. He stroked the high cheek bones of his husband and sighed. "You don't have to apologize, Harry. I already gave Damon the money and the stubborn arse tried to give it back to me as well."

"I didn't mean to make you angry, Master," he whispered, his breath hitching in his chest. "I just wanted to be able to give you something besides pasta and Damon said we could make a good meal..." He rambled on for a moment and then trailed into silence. "I don't know anything about this world Husband."

Severus closed his eyes. Damon had been right and he shook his head. He remembered the first few times he had tried to exchange funds and how he had went round and round with the clerk at the bank until Damon and Grant had sat him down and showed him what he needed to know. "I'm not angry with you, Harry." He stroked his husband's silky hair. "I should be the one apologizing to you, little one. I am sorry for not helping you more. I had forgotten what a difference there is between here and Scotland.”

"I'll get it Husband, I promise," he said determinedly. "I'm going to ask Mione if she'll find me some books to study so I don't mess up anymore." He looked up and smiled at Severus. "How was your day? Did you know that they have a lot of the things you missed?" It was time to see if he could still turn a conversation and put people at ease. He looked up as Damon came through the kitchen door with a few more bags in his hands.

Severus smiled down at Harry. "You don't need to go to Hermione, my Harry. I can help you." He smirked. "Once again you'll be my pupil."

Damon looked up at that and shook his head. "Come here, Harry. I'll teach you how to figure the money. Took forever to get it through Severus' head." He threw the gathered bills down on the table and set the groceries on the counter. "But after dinner, I don't know about you all but I am getting hungry again and it's been a while since Bit ate something good as well."

A little over an hour, one six pack between Damon and Severus, and two milk and Pepsis for Harry later, the grill was loaded with a hot bed of coals and Damon was trying to teach Harry the intricate art of ribs while Severus watched and snarked.

Damon stood with Harry in front of him and his arms around the younger man, each with a set of tongs. The older man showed Harry how to test for the doneness of the potatoes and how to turn the ribs. "Never use a fork because you will let the juices out of the meat." He picked up the slab of baby back ribs and flipped it over. "Gently squeeze the potatoes with the tongs to see if it gives but try not to bust open the jackets." He looked back over his shoulder and stuck his tongue out at Severus. "Shut-up Sev, he's doing fine."

Severus reached around Damon and poked one of the chicken breasts with a serving fork. "This works as well Harry," he said with a good natured grin as he stuck his tongue back out at Damon. "That smells so good. I hope you are paying close attention Harry, I want this weekly." He leaned down and kissed the top of his younger husband's head.

Harry turned and quickly pinched Severus with the pair of tongs in his hand. "Husband, I am trying not to muck this up, you need to go set the table... please," he said with a grin and tipped his face up to offer his mouth for a kiss.

Severus bent and kissed the smaller man, deeply and Damon rolled his eyes. "Quite messing with the chef and the food, boy. You can have you fun with him later." He growled at Severus but softened it with a grin. "Go do as he tells you."

Damon reached around and pinched Severus' almost non existent ass with the tongs. He smiled down at Harry. "You'll get him trained up eventually, Bit. Just keep at it."

Harry sniffed and then smirked. "Well I hope one day he's as well trained as you are," he quipped and neatly flipped one of the steaks Damon had bought. "I think Grant did a wonderful job."

Severus caught that as he walked into the house and his laughter could be heard even after the door was shut behind him.

Damon looked down at Harry again and pinched him with the tongs as well. "Hey, we all know who's boss around here so I don't want none of your lip. We trained each other." He grinned at the smaller man. "You are doing a good job, Bit."

He reached over to the table and took a long swallow of his beer and then handed Harry his Pepsi. He sighed and hugged Harry. "Thank you for letting him stay, Harry, we've missed him while he's been gone."

Harry hugged Damon back and took a long swallow of his Pepsi. "It needs more milk," he said to himself as he looked at his glass critically. "I think this is a better place for him and if he's here, then it's a better place for me. I just have a lot of things to learn, but I'm trying so don't laugh unless it's a really big mistake."

He smiled again and headed back to the house for more milk. "Do you need anything, Damon?"

Damon shook his head and reached out to squeeze Harry's shoulder. "No Harry, you've already given plenty." He said softly "Oh, take the tongs to Sev again, he should have been back now with the plates and things." He smiled sadly at the younger man and turned back to the grill.

Harry cocked his head and looked at Damon's back, stepping next to him once more. "Damon... what's wrong?" he asked quietly and looked up at his father-in-law.

Damon shook his head. "Not a damn thing, Harry. Go on and get your milk. The Bump will be demanding it soon enough." He looked down into the bright green eyes and smiled for him. "I'll live, Bit. Too ornery to die."

"Alright Damon," he said and turned to go back into the house, picking up his tongs on his way. There was a Potions Master that needed to be tested for doneness.

Harry walked up behind his husband with the tongs concealed behind his back, waiting until Severus bent over to get something, before he followed Damon's instructions to the letter. "Damon told me to," he said quickly and grinned.

Severus barely contained the yelp at being pinched and turned around. He raised an eyebrow at his husband. "You do everything Damon tells you to?" He advanced on the younger man, a grin splitting his face. "You better run Harry cause I just may have to return the favour." He snatched the tongs away from his husband and clicked them together.

Licking his lips, Harry simply turned around and bent over, looking back over his shoulder at the older man. "Well?" he quipped and then smirked.

Severus' grin widened. Instead of using the tongs though he reached out and pinched Harry's bottom then swatted it. "You drive me to distraction. What did you come in here for?" He turned and gathered the plates and utensils needed for their supper.

Harry stood up laughing. "I need more milk in this," he said, holding up his glass. He couldn't say where he got the idea for the mix, but he definitely liked the taste. "Oh and Damon said you should have had the other stuff outside already. He seems so sad Severus."

Severus made a face as Harry poured the milk in the soda pop. He was hoping the cravings were going to get better not worse. "I was on my way out before I got distracted." He watched his little husband drink deeply from the glass and then chuckled as the belly gave a roll as well. "It's separation anxiety. Damon and Grant have been together a long time, my Own. Would you like to be separated from me for nearly three weeks while someone else took care of me and lived in our home while you could not?"

Harry looked up at Severus sadly. "I know what that is like. I was miserable last summer when you left Hogwarts," he said softly and looked out the window at the ex Marine. "I hope Grant comes for him soon. He needs him." Harry took Severus' hand and followed him back outside with the rest of what was needed for the evening meal, the younger man giving Damon a hug from behind before sitting down at the picnic table they'd bought not long ago.