The day went smoothly as father and son spent the day shopping for Harry's clothes and getting to know each other. Harry had been thrilled that with his new appearance no one realized who he was. He had hated being stared at and talked about just because he was the 'boy who lived.' Of course, since he was shopping with Snape most people had scurried out of the way, especially currant and even former students. Harry had held back a laugh each time that happened and noticed that Snape had a satisfied smirk on his face each time it did.
After buying him a new wardrobe Snape also bought him a brand new quill and ink pot. The biggest surprise of all was when Snape had led Harry in to the Quidditch Supplies store. When Harry had looked up at his dad questionably, Snape had simply lifted one shoulder and said he thought Harry would want to look around.
Severus leaned slightly against the counter. "I figured you would want to visit here. It is most of the student's favorite store, I do believe." He grimaced. "Well, this and the joke shop, I suppose."
Harry grinned in reply and enjoyed the feeling of normalcy as he browsed the shop. What could be more normal than a father taking his son to his favorite sports shop after all?
Harry had been thumbing through a book on Quidditch moves when he saw Snape checking out at the counter. Curious, he put down the book and went to stand next to him and his eyes widened when he saw the expensive looking broom servicing kit and Quidditch gloves being put in a bag by the clerk. "Is that for me?" he breathed out.
Severus paid and handed him the bag. "No, it is for Professor Dumbledore. Of course it is for you, you silly boy." His eyes shone with amusement as Harry took the bag. "Happy Birthday Harry."
Harry's green eyes lit up. "Wow! Thank you! Except for Hagrid, no one has ever bought me a birthday present before. And thank you for all the clothes and quill set." He happily hugged the bag to himself, not noticing the distressed look on his dad's face.
"You are welcome." Severus finally said as they began walking down the street. "You are a very fine seeker Harry. I will enjoy watching you this year."
Harry raised an eyebrow, not realizing how much he looked like his father as he did. "Even when I play against Slytherin?"
Severus nodded. "Of course as head of Slytherin I support my house and team but that does not mean that I won't be rooting for you as well. As long as you are careful, no need for any dangerous stunts." He warned.
Severus next took Harry to Hogsmeade for lunch at The Three Broomsticks where they continued their conversation.
"What did you think of me joining when I was only a first year?" Harry asked curiously as they studied their menus.
"Honestly? That you were too young to be on the team." Severus answered, putting down his menu. "The school has that rule for reason. First years have a lot to learn about magic; especially the muggle borns and most students have never flown before. It is considered a lot of pressure for a first year. Then there is also the issue that you basically got on the team for flying when you were not supposed to, correct?"
Harry flushed slightly. "Well, yeah but I only did it to get back the remembrall that Malfoy had stolen from Neville."
"You still broke a rule Harry. You should have waited for Madam Hooch and let her deal with Mr. Malfoy." Severus said seriously. "Although if I had seen you fly the way Professor McGonagall described and you were in Slytherin I probably would have been tempted to get you on the team." Severus smirked. "You still would have had detention though, just as Mr. Malfoy did."
Harry's mouth fell open. "Malfoy got detention?"
Severus nodded. "I do not usually take points from my own house but that does not mean my students get away with disobedience. I am known for being strict for a reason."
