A Little Help from a Snake // Tomarry

70: The Actual Bonding Ceremony

Reposted: January 31, 2022

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It's here, it's finally here. And thank you for your suggestions! They really helped.

Also, most of the reason for the lateness (other than lack of motivation) is that classes have started up again. So that's fun /s

Summary: the thirty-first of July

It was the thirty-first, was Harry's first thought as he woke up the following morning. He was sixteen. He could finally bond with Tom.

Turning over, he looked at his beloved. Tom slept on, looking angelic in the dim light coming from outside. Harry lightly stroked his cheek, smiling when Tom unconsciously leaned in to the touch.

Part of Harry wanted to wake him right that instance, but he let himself lay there in peaceful silence until Tom woke up on his own.

About forty minutes later, Tom stirred and opened his eyes. "Morning."

"Morning. This is it."

"This is it," Tom echoed.

They brushed their teeth and headed downstairs for breakfast. Sirius, who had come bounding up the stairs, met them halfway.

"You ready?" he said.

"We'd like to eat first," Harry said.

"Oh, right. But after that?"

"Yes." Harry laughed. "Honestly, Sirius, anyone would think you're the one bonding today."

Sirius huffed. "Well, excuse me for being happy for my son."

They entered the dining room. Azure had taken the seat next to Remus and was currently trying to get a taste of his pancakes.

"There you are!" said Remus, relieved. "Ready to get this show on the road? Azure, quit it!"

Azure paused, looked at him reproachfully, then smacked his fork out of his hand with her tail. Remus threw his hands in the air in defeat.

"I am so ready for this," Harry said, pretending he did not notice any of this.

"So am I," Tom added.

"Well, hurry up and eat," Bella urged, pushing them into their seats. She was bouncing a little, looking just as excited for them as Sirius did.

Harry and Tom dug into their food, which had clearly been made extra special just for them. As soon as they were finished, they were herded into another room, which was being set up by Severus and Barty. A circle had been drawn on the floor, surrounded by runes.

Tom cast a sidelong glance at Harry and saw many emotions swimming in the depths of his green eyes. "You all right?" he asked.

Harry nodded. "Yeah. I just — I can't believe we're finally doing it."

"Neither can I."

"Oi, lovebirds!" called Sirius. "Get in position."

Harry threw him a dirty look but went to stand the center of the floor. Tom situated himself in front of him.

Bella stepped forward with the dagger in her hand. "It is ready," she said. "Prick your finger and let two drops of blood fall."

Tom did it first, then handed the dagger over to Harry. Their blood dripped into the bowl between them, forming a single droplet.

"Now take each other by the wrist," Bella instructed. They did. "Do you, Tom Riddle, take Harry Potter to complete this soul bond?"

"I do."