Blood Bound

Preface

James sat in his favorite armchair, glancing at the clock. The small living room was lit by only a roaring fire in the fireplace. There was a knock at the door and James was on his feet, crossing the room to answer it. Severus’ taller frame stood in the doorway and James leaned up to greet him with a soft kiss. “What was so urgent?” Severus asked as he came inside.

“I’ve been doing a lot of thinking; well, worrying actually,” James said, closing the door behind him.

Severus hung up his cloak and took a seat on the couch. “Really? If you keep doing that you’ll turn into me.”

James joined him on the couch, leaning against him. “I’ll take that risk. I never used to worry, but ever since Harry was born I can’t help it.”

Severus shook his head. “It’s amazing how far you’ve come since we were in school. I still don’t understand what was so important it couldn’t wait until morning.”

James took a deep, steadying breath. He knew the full extent of what he was asking. “I’ve been doing some research.” He reached for a book on the coffee table. “I was looking for a silver bullet, so to speak. I think I’ve found it.”

Severus took the book and looked at it, his eyes widening. “James, this is medieval blood magic.” James leaned over and turned to a specific page, causing Severus to gasp in surprise. “You can’t be serious! You want me to do this ritual with you, don’t you?”

James glanced over at the staircase. “Not with me. Severus, you heard the prophecy; he’s going to be after Harry. I want it to be the last thing he ever does.” He reached to take the other wizard’s hand. “Please. You’re the only one I can trust with something like this. No one can know, not even Lily.”

Severus gazed into the fire and let out a deep sigh. “Not even Dumbledore has asked as much of me as you are now.”

“I know,” James said as he leaned in closer. “But he isn’t as good in the sack as I am.”

Severus shook his head. “You know how much I hate emotional blackmail, and don’t try to deny that’s what you’re doing. You and Dumbledore are such similar creatures. You just happen to be much better at manipulation.”

James lovingly brushed a few hairs out of Severus’ eyes. “You and I have something in common too. Under that tough exterior you’re a very caring person. Chiseling through that armor of yours wasn’t easy, but it was well worth it. And you know, in a way this protects you, too.”

Severus turned his face away. “Very well, I’ll do it. I assume you already have the ritual prepared, seeing as how there’s a blood moon in the sky tonight.”

James grinned and kissed Severus on the forehead. “It’s all out in the back yard. I’ll go get Harry.”

Severus couldn’t believe what he was about to do, but how could he refuse James Potter? Who would have thought the brat who’d made his younger life a living hell would grow up to become such a wonderful man? Some days Severus had to pinch himself to make sure it was all real. “Have I really become so predictable?” he asked just as James reached the foot of the stairs.

James turned and gave him a soft smile. “Only to me.”