A/n: This is an alternative spin-off from Stars that Align the Full Moon. Please don’t read this if you liked Fenrir Greyback or if you have never read STATFM.

I was halfway through this and felt my heart break because I loved Fenrir and should’ve never thought of writing this but I did promise this one-shot to some of you. It is NOT a sequel, just a one-shot so you will not gain anything from reading this if you liked Fenrir. It will be short and to the point, because honestly, Fenrir and Harry belong together. But- if you like Sterling/Harry, here it is. Oh- and I’m disappointed in myself that there will be no sex- or at least graphic lemon sex. Yikes! Don’t throw things too hard at my head; I’ve already gotten hit today.

Suffering breaks our world. Like a tree struck by lightening—splintered, shaken, denuded—our world is broken by suffering, and we will never be the same again.

- Nathan Kollar

Embrace My Cold Heart

A soft dripping echoed across the room hitting the cement floor in a tympanic pattern. The room was cold, but the occupants paid it no heed, considering they didn’t feel such things as temperature. Both the figures were dressed in the finest silk and cloth known to man kind and they wore it in such a way that made the fabric seem more luxurious than it was in reality.

One man was pacing back and forth not making a sound, save for the gentle brush of cloak on the brick floor. His hands twisted themselves crudely behind his back while shocking blue eyes stole quick glances at the blasé figure sitting upon a throne made of leather and silk stitching.

The other figure, the man upon the throne, was paying his companion no heed. Instead, he was twisting his pricey gold ring around his right ring finger. The red ruby caught the light from the candle and sent prisms of light around the dark room. His tongue came out and licked at the excess blood their prisoner graciously gave to him and his clan.

Unique eyes looked sideways at the naked body hanging from shackles against the wall. She was dead now; her cold and unappetizing blood was dripping steadily on the floor. She was the first blood he had drunken for about a week now. It was wearing thin on him with the lack of human life around these parts of the woods. His clan was getting shifty and outspoken about his leadership moves. How could they think of being strong vampires when they couldn’t even get a decent meal every day?

“This is getting ridiculous.” The pacing vampire stated, stopping his movements and getting on his knees in front of the king. “I’m sorry, your highness, but we can not stay here any longer without getting detected. The villagers are starting to become suspicious and the clan is brewing something behind your back.”

Sterling never met the eyes of the man at his feet; instead he looked out the window at the full moon with an unreadable face. “We stay here.” For a few more moments, he gazed at that orb in the sky. With a light sigh he went back to twisting the ring his father had given him before he passed away.

The man on the ground stiffened his back, trying to control his fury. “It’s that small werewolf- isn’t it?” His blue eyes watched as Sterling’s eyes swiveled on him for the first time tonight. He was always captivated by the man’s eyes… black iris with a cat-like red pupil. It was the symbol for being a royal vampire and it always reminded him his place to his king.

“Harry?” Sterling purred, caressing the ring on his hand. “Yes, I don’t deny it. The alpha and submissive are reclusive in these woods.”

The vampire on the floor gazed up at Sterling with his mouth agape… waiting for more. The king of vampires sat silently though, gazing at the full moon outside. There was nothing more to say-

“Well…” The grounded vampire started, hoping to get a response out of his king. “You desire the wolf? You know it’s impossible to claim him when he’s mated. You can have anyone you please.”

A sinister smile crossed Sterling’s face as his sharp fangs caressed his bottom lip. “You’re right, Bradley, I can have anyone. That is why I want Harry.”

Bradley pounded his fists on the ground, ignoring it when it cracked slightly. “I understand most royal vampires take their life force as their mate- but Sterling-,”

“It’s your highness- to you, Bradley.” Sterling replied nonchalantly, still eyeing the full moon outside.

“But your highness, this is getting ridiculous. You’ve changed so much since the submissive came into your life. What ever happened to my friend- the playboy… the charming bastard who could get anyone in bed with a simple gaze?”

“It has nothing to do with, Harry.” Sterling defended, quickly averting his eyes back to Bradley. “I’ve matured; I’m head of the family now and need to settle down. I need a steady partner… my life mate. Sleeping around with multiple of people interests me no more, unless it’s with Harry.”

The king’s face was void of any emotion.

Bradley buried his head to the ground. His friend had changed dramatically. He seemed more… powerful. With Sterling’s dark past, he was surprised when the man turned out as an unsophisticated bad boy… it didn’t suit him. But this new Sterling- it scared him. He didn’t know which he liked better; the careless vampire or the dark dangerous king.

“Alright.” Bradley spoke up coming to terms. “You want Harry to be your mate.” He stated it- as if trying to come to terms with it out loud. “What do you want me to do for you in order to make that command come true, your highness?”

He looked up at Sterling’s questioning gaze.

“I can get the clan together and we can kill off Greyback-,”

“As much as that appeals to me, Bradley, I will not allow that.” Sterling’s voice was a soft whisper; his blood colored hair seemed to glow in the moonlight. “I want Harry as my mate, not my enemy.”

“Well then, your highness, what can we do for you?” The tone was somewhat sarcastic and Sterling narrowed his eyes at that.

“Be patient. Time will come.”

--SH--

Gabriel and Sterling locked gazes, both challenging the other to look away first. “So let me get this straight.” Sterling murmured quietly, sitting forward with eyes darkening as the seconds went by. “You want to kill off Greyback and thus allowing me to turn Harry?”

Red eyes narrowed in annoyance. “That’s what I’ve stated, yes.”

Sterling allowed a gentle smirk to appear on his lips. “And then what? You take Harry as your mate?”

Gabriel stood up, golden hair becoming untamed. “Listen, vamps, I’ve heard around that you want Harry for yourself… and I want Fenrir to myself. I want to leave his mate out of it and it’s a perfect opportunity for us to get what we both want.” Sterling surveyed the man’s enlarged yellow fingernails with disgust.

The idea tempted him. Yes, Fenrir Greyback would be eliminated without the aid of Sterling and Harry could come into Sterling’s comforting arms. But what of the pack he was with? And then Sterling thought of Harry’s reaction if word got out that he made a deal with Gabriel. Disquieting eyes met with Gabriel’s red ones. “No.”

Bradley, his guard sitting quietly in the corner, gave a growl and stepped out of place. “Sterling, you cannot be serious! How stu-,”

Sterling stood up and gave a slight wave of his hand which caused Bradley to get knocked off his feet, landing heavily against the wall. “I’m the king, Bradley, you under me. What I say goes.” Taking an unnecessary calming breath, Sterling turned back to Gabriel. “The answer is no.”

The rogue alpha gave a snort and turned his back on the vampire. “Your loss…”

With that he exited, leaving Sterling alone with a whimpering Bradley.

--SH--

Sharp nails caressed the soft petals of the crimson rose that bloomed to perfection just a few days ago. The thorns were still present, hoping to prick an unlucky victim and drink the blood that bleed. The lavished room was only lighted by the crescent moon; a few objects caught the silver light and seemingly glowed in the dark room. The fireplace was gathering dust from not being used for awhile, but the owner didn’t care- it wouldn’t make a difference if it wasn’t lightened or if it stayed dead forever.

The door slammed open but the occupant stayed motionless. “Your highness… the wolf is on his way to the submissive’s house- we think he’s attacking against your orders…”

The hand around the rose clenched, causing crimson droplets to drip down the pale white hand.

--SH--

Harry made his way through the forest, smelling deeply the scents of the wilderness. His fingers brushed against the rough bark while he crouched down by the brush. A lone beetle was making its way in the ground as morning came rising in the distance. The other pack members were spread across the grounds, hoping to catch their next meal for all.

Life was good here, Harry loved it. Fenrir was here- and that was all that mattered. And the food was plentiful allowing everyone their desirable fill.

His tongue brushed his enlarged canines while looking over at the clearing at a still doe, drinking from the creek. It hadn’t been long since Fenrir and the pack retreated from the wizarding world, but Harry was welcoming the absence with embracing arms. As far as Harry was concerned, they could stay here forever without human contact. He had already embraced his wolf fully and now look at him- attacking animals in the dead of the early morning.

Tensing his quad muscles and hamstrings, Harry dug his nails into the rich soil- ready to attack. Just as he was about to pounce, he stood up abruptly when he heard alien voices in the forest. Who were they? Nostrils flaring he smelt the scent and recoiled in alarm. It was the pack that kidnapped him before, Fenrir’s younger brother, Gabriel.

Heart pounding, he took off- startling the doe in the clearing and ran full strides toward the shack were Fenrir was presently. Branches cut his face but he didn’t notice as he caught sight of the shack. The rogue pack was fighting against his own pack in human form with extended claws and enlarged teeth. He spotted Sonar fighting against a woman who had bitten a big chunk of skin out of his shoulder. Harry looked amongst the fighting bodies for his mate, praying to Merlin he would hold up a second time against his brother.

A heavy body tackled him to the ground and he gave a whimper in shock. Glaring red eyes snarled at him, spit coating Harry’s bronzed face. With the fury of a worried mate, Harry gave a threatening growl. Bringing back his claw, he sliced it across the snarling face on top of him. Without waiting to see if it actually did some damage, Harry scrambled up and ran toward the shack. Fenrir had to be ok… he just…

Vampires seemingly dropped from the trees and started to attack the rogue pack. Harry didn’t pay any attention to them; instead he followed his nose to his mate. He was heading behind the shack and just as he met sight of Fenrir, strong arms encircled him. “No.” Harry moaned, throwing himself against the clenched arms.

His mate was there… just lying like a broken doll below a breathing Gabriel. Being so strong in life, Fenrir looked absolutely small lying there. His ice-amber eyes looked blankly at Harry and his mouth was open slightly. “No…” Harry sobbed, dropping to his knees.

That strong chest Harry leaned on for countless occasions never rose nor fell- it just paused for eternity. The very same chest Harry caressed and placed kisses on this morning was no longer warm and alive.

Gabriel looked at him with a stoic expression. “I hate you!” Harry screamed hoarsely tears falling down his cheeks in sorrow. Just when Fenrir and he received their happy ending, it was torn away from them.

The arms that held him back turned him around and placed him on his back to the ground. Harry was forced to meet gazes with a man he thought he would never see again, Sterling. And then it dawned on him- the vampire was going to turn him. Just like in his dream before… ”No, Sterling, please no.” Harry begged watching the vampire’s face come closer to his neck.

“I’m so sorry, Harry.” He sounded sincere but from Harry’s clouded mind, it didn’t matter.

He kicked and clawed at Sterling, but the Vampire- although small, overpowered Harry easily. Desperate amber-green eyes looked at his pack who had come and surrounded him. Some were crying at Fenrir’s body while some strained to reach him. They were all held back by other vampires though. Sonar, his best friend, was throwing himself forward even with a bloody shoulder, but he would never reach Harry in time.

Fangs pierced Harry’s neck and the small man gave a cry. How could he survive in a life without Fenrir? He couldn’t…

His kicking became weak and his struggles lessened as the blood was taken from him. Sterling’s hold seemingly tightened around Harry’s waist as it reached time to give blood back to Harry. The vampire pulled back and looked down at Harry as he pierced his own wrist and held the dripping appendage over Harry’s lips. “Drink… please, Harry, drink.”

He didn’t want to, in fact, he was barely conscious as the droplets fell on his tongue. Rolling his eyes upwards in exhaustion- the last thing he saw made his heart stop permanently. A silky black wolf with green-amber eyes looked down at him with pity. Leaning down, a tongue licked itself across Harry’s face and the black wolf turned its heel and joined a large silver one in the distance.

Harry locked confused green eyes to ice-amber; watching the two wolves run away together.

--SH--

It took him awhile but eventually Harry opened his heavy eyelids. He thanked whomever from above that it was dark in the room and nothing strained his eyes. A settle candle was burning beside his bed on a heavy nightstand. The first thing Harry thought- was he felt like shit. His muscles were like jelly and his head felt like it would explode any moment from an unknown strain. When would Fenrir get in here and comfort him?

Fingers clenched themselves in the sheets as he remembered the events from… from the past. Fenrir wouldn’t be coming in here, in fact, he would never be comforting Harry again. Pain seared Harry’s chest at the noticeable loss. He would say he was suffocating with grief, despite the fact he didn’t need to breathe in order to survive. Pity, he could’ve buried his head in the pillow and never come up for air.

“The loss will never leave you but you will become stronger with each passing day.” Sterling whispered quietly from Harry’s right.

Harry slammed his head to the side and glared disgustingly at the silhouetted vampire. “Fuck you.” Harry attempted to growl low in his throat, but it came out weak… like a human growl. In fact, his whole wolf seemed to be oddly absent. “How dare you…” Harry cried softly, sitting up in his bed, refusing to show Sterling any tears. “How can you do this to me? How could you turn me?” His voice rose with each syllable but Sterling would have none of it.

The king of vampires towered over the sitting Harry and his face came inches within distance. “You’re seventeen.” He hissed through his long incisors. “You have a whole bloody life in front of you, how could I not turn you?”

Harry reached out a hand and pulled at the crimson hair falling from Sterling’s head. “You did this just because you couldn’t stand Fenrir with me- isn’t that it?”

Sterling was rather unemotional as he slowly detangled Harry’s fingers from his hair. “You think I did this because I… liked you?” Amusement was thick in his voice. “Sorry to disappoint your fantasized drama, boy, but I didn’t care about you. I care about myself. If you died I would die after you because of our blood bond.”

Despite everything, that hurt Harry and embarrassed him. Sterling’s chuckle filled the room. “I just barely got into power, Potter. You think I would like to die just because your mate died from his foolish family feud? I think not.” Eyes burning with emotion bore down at the Vulnerable Harry. “There’s blood on your bedside, drink it.” With that, he swept out the room and slammed the door behind him.

Bringing his legs up, Harry folded in on himself. How could the man treat him like this? His mate was just killed before his eyes and now Sterling was treating him like scum on the bottom of his jeweled crested boots. How could Harry misunderstand the man’s feelings for him? Didn’t those looks at Voldemort’s manor involve lust and desire in them?

What a fool he was.

He felt alone more then ever.

He dipped his head and gave a dry sob. Eyes opening wide, he brushed his dry cheek. No tears were coming from his eyes… he couldn’t even cry and be accompanied by his tears. Throwing a fist to the mattress, Harry stood up and crossed the room toward a mirror. His wolf was gone… he couldn’t feel anything from it. He didn’t feel it’s emptiness but neither its presence. He stopped in his tracks before he looked at his reflection, becoming rather frightened at what he would see. Would he look different? Or the same?

Peeking around to see his reflection; he stared at it for a few moments and then his expression crumbled into one of sorrow and agony. The first thing he noticed was his eyes. Green-amber his mate loved so much was now void. His eyes seemed to glow now, an eerie green. His bronze colored skin was no longer bronze, but pale and his wild hair was flat and went in his face with bangs.

No…

Harry brought back his fists and slammed them into the mirror, enjoying the shattering noise Harry laughed. Oh, the irony. His fists were brought to eye level and he gave a sick chuckle. Not one single scratch on his granite skin… no blood… nothing. He was a bloody monster. Becoming rather hysterically, Harry overturned a table watching it shatter into pieces.

His gaze fell into the gold goblet beside his bed and he swept over to it. The crimson liquid inside it seemed to sicken and arouse Harry at the same time. A sweet aroma teased his smelling senses that seemed to work even now. All Harry wanted to do was throw it against the wall and disobey Sterling, but his stomach twisted into a nasty knot just thinking about wasting something so sweet.

With shaking fingers, he picked the golden goblet up and pressed the brim to his lips. Warm liquid spilt down his throat and a moan issued from Harry. He tipped it as far as it could go before becoming satisfied with the amount settled into his system. Never before had Harry craved something this much that it hurt, but the end result was pleasurable.

“I didn’t mean to hurt you when I said those things. I was-,” Sterling’s voice paused quietly from behind him. Harry stayed with his back turned to the vampire- urging him to continue but he was surprised when the door quietly shut again.

Becoming oddly sadder, Harry placed the golden goblet back down and looked at his empty room. How could he live like this, alone and by himself? Walking over to the window, he looked out into the night air. The moon was hanging in the sky but Harry didn’t feel the normal call to it that he used to before. So it was true then, he was no longer wolf- thus the bond with Fenrir was no longer present.

Looking at the bending trees from outside, Harry wondered about what he saw before he blacked out. It was him in his wolf form along with Fenrir, that much was certain. But the question was- how was it possible when Harry was still alive? But he wasn’t alive. His soul may be gone and it ran away with Fenrir, or maybe it was just his wolf part of him that ran off. He probably wouldn’t know for certain, but he still had the memories fresh on his mind. His mate was always there for him, sacrificing everything just for Harry’s happiness.

Harry placed his forehead on the window, not even feeling its coolness. He would never feel warmth again like Fenrir’s burning touch to his naked skin…

His lips trembled as he looked down at the latch from the window. Could he run away? Would he be able to survive by himself with being a newborn vampire? Where would he go?

He knew he would never be able to go back to Fenrir’s pack; because he was no longer a werewolf and they also held many memories attached to Fenrir. A man popped in his mind and Harry considered it for a moment until allowing himself a small smile. Lord Voldemort would help him heal, he knew it.

His eyes lowered to his outfit and realized he was still in his clothes from Fenrir’s shack; ripped jeans that were torn off at his knees and a simple black shirt. It was chilly outside, but it wouldn’t matter anymore.

Looking behind him and back out the window, he slowly and quietly opened the hatch. Considering he would be safe, Sterling wouldn’t give a damn where Harry stayed.

How wrong he was…

--SH--

Four years… four years since the death of Fenrir Greyback and four years since the day he became a vampire. Harry was staying with Voldemort and standing by the man’s side. He saw the changes in the wizarding world and applauded the Dark Lord on it. The world was much stronger now, the education at Hogwarts advanced while things seemed to become bigger… more advanced. Magical creatures were becoming more accepted among the wizarding world along with gaining more rights. The Dark Arts were being taught to students, causing a slight split between the light wizards and dark wizards but Voldemort didn’t seem to be too worried about that.

Things, overall, were looking much brighter.

Four years ago, Harry had come to Voldemort and the man took him in without hesitating. Four a few weeks Harry stayed in his room, moping around and becoming hungry for blood. Pains shot through his stomach and made him become less like himself. Voldemort had then stormed in his rooms and pointed out nonchalantly that Harry was making the same mistake twice- avoiding who he was just as he had with his wolf side when he was younger. So from then on, Harry drank blood once a day from a goblet. Not once touching it from the live source.

Voldemort, even though busy, always found time to be with Harry. They worked on magical theory together and engaged in conversations. The Dark Lord had a way of pointing out Harry’s flaws with a casual statement that always got Harry riled up- but then he always seemed to come to terms with what the man said. In a way, Harry helped Voldemort and the man helped him.

And over those four years, never once had Harry received contact with Sterling; which didn’t bother Harry one bit. Although Voldemort suggested that the king of his clan was probably settle somewhere close, watching him. Harry heatedly refused it and never thought of it again.

Everyday, Harry looked into the mirror and hoped to see himself aging- but he was sorely mistaken as he remained seventeen. Not only did he remain seventeen, but he was shorter and thinner than before he mated with Fenrir. It seemed as if being a werewolf made him taller and much more muscular.

“There is a clan of vampires visiting tonight.” Voldemort spoke up after a bite of his dinner. Harry, never touching food, was sipping on his daily goblet of fresh, warm blood.

Harry placed his goblet down and glowered at the smirking Dark Lord. “Is it his clan?” It would’ve been odd that vampires were visiting at night, but it made sense to Harry. Vampires didn’t get burned in the sunlight but they did become weak and Vulnerable during the day.

“Sterling’s? No.” Harry flinched at the name but was content with the man’s answer. “They are coming to talk with you, actually.”

Harry raised an eyebrow, clearly not understanding what the man was saying. “Why are they coming to talk with me?”

Ignoring the question for a moment and chewing on a piece of meat, Tom gave a small smirk. “There is no such thing as a lone vampire, Harry. You need to be part of a clan and mate with-,”

Harry stood up. “I’m not mating with anyone.”

The Dark Lord put his fork down and looked calmly up at Harry with those eyes that seemed to know everything. “It’s been four years, Harry. I warded you away from them as long as I can. You need to move on.” Turning his back to Tom, Harry walked from the room and made his way to his bedroom.

It wasn’t meant to be like this. Why did magical creatures always have to have rules? He could be his own damned lone vampire if he wanted to be. Thinking about mating with someone sent absent goosebumps down his spine. Having come to terms with the fact that Fenrir and his soul/wolf side of him were together already in the afterlife, Harry was still shaky about touching anyone in the way he had Fenrir. Could he do it? Yes, he could, but he doubted he would ever feel the love again.

He stopped in his tracks and paused. He was running from his problems again, he shouldn’t be. Turning his heel, he swept back toward the dinning room. His outfit was fine to meet the new clan, consisting on his open, high necked black robes. Such a vampire fashion Harry couldn’t pass up, so different from his half naked form the werewolves use to take in.

“Good boy.” Voldemort praised, still seated at the table. A house elf appeared by his side, taking his plate and Harry’s empty goblet of blood.

“Master, the guests have arrived.” Harry sat stiffly down to Tom’s right and watched as the Dark Lord waved a dismissing hand.

“Send them here.” Bowing, the house elf disappeared with a pop.

“Just this one clan, correct?” Harry asked; narrowing his eyes suspiciously at the smirk Voldemort seemed to wear.

“Alas, did I say a clan? I meant to say just the king of the clan would be here- along with a few others.” Harry stiffened in his chair and opened his mouth to retort until the door opened and richly cloaked figures came in.

Most the figures were hooded with no features showing save for flashy rings on their pale fingers or silk woven cloaks. Their sizes varied, some were tall and burly while some were short a stocky and some were just thick and tall. They all seemed to have an air around them though. It seemed like an ancient air- sophisticated and powerful in their own right.

Lord Voldemort stood up and shook hands with a man that looked human. The man was a heavy set with a balding head and heavy mustache. His black beady eyes lightened as they landed on Harry. The young wizard turned his gaze away from the man and watched as the vampire kings sat down without even bothering to introduce themselves to the Dark Lord. All eyes turned on him and he gave a heavy swallow. So… what did this entitle again?

Harry’s head whipped around when he heard Voldemort exit the room. “But-,” Harry stood up in protest and the Dark Lord turned around and gave a wink in Harry’s direction while shutting to door.

A heavy hand landed on Harry’s thin shoulder, causing him to sit back down on the chair. “Lets get down to business, shall we?” The heavy man asked, looking gleefully around the table at the motionless figures. “Right, Mr. Potter, you can call me Charlie if you deem it necessary.” Harry doubted it was his real name, but gave a sharp nod. “Their names are not important.” Charlie made a swiping hand gesture to the kings around the table and Harry was probably right assuming he wasn’t supposed to know at all.

Charlie cleared his throat and sat at the head where Voldemort preoccupied moments ago and brought out a scroll of parchment with elegant writing scrawled over it. Stubby fingers dipped into his pocket and pulled out a set of eyeglasses. Placing them on his face, he looked at the scroll. “All of you are aware that this is Mr. Harry James Potter; born in 1980 to the parents of James and Lily Potter. Height of 5’4” weight of 120 lbs. with a petite statue.” Harry’s eyes widened slightly as he looked over the man’s shoulder at the parchment but the man turned slightly.

“Past life; werewolf status-,” Many of the figures gave a nod as if they knew this already. “Mate to Fenrir Greyback-,” Harry gave a short wince. “Who was killed four years ago. Harry Potter was then turned by Sterling, considering its been four years, two years passed the official time of implementation- Harry is now up for adoption since his sire had not claimed him as part of the clan.” Harry tilted his head slightly at that. So vampires had to be properly introduced to a clan within two years or they were up for adoption… he felt like a child.

“Extremely newborn with no proper vampire skills as of yet.” At this Charlie looked at Harry from the corner of his eye as if it were Harry’s fault. “Have you once, drunk from the source, Mr. Potter?” Harry flushed slightly and shook his head negatively.

A small chuckle filled the room and Harry turned narrowed eyes toward the kings. “Is something wrong with his teeth?” A voice drawled and Harry held in his temper.

“He wouldn’t know, but you can try asking me.” Harry growled out and Charlie froze.

“Mr. Potter, respect…” Charlie gave a nervous smile at the kings and patted Harry on the head. “He can often be temperamental but like I’ve said, he’s a newborn still.” Harry narrowed his eyes over at the heavyset man who seemed like he knew Harry- it was that damned parchment he held…

“Where did you get-,” He was cut off as Charlie put down the parchment and grabbed Harry’s chin.

“Very curious nature.” Charlie pointed out and took his fingers and slid them in Harry’s mouth to pull apart his jaw. Harry reared back at the alien gesture but Charlie kept a good grip on him. “Ah, perfect condition.” The man pointed out his mouth and Harry attempted to close his mouth on the fingers but they escaped before he could.

Tasting the salty taste of skin, Harry grimaced in disgust while trying to clean his teeth with his tongue. He felt like he was on damned display for these vampires. Charlie picked up the parchment again and looked it over. “Anything I left out? Ah, yes. Dark Lord Voldemort’s heir, magical in nature- very advanced, seemingly smart…” He paused and looked at Harry again. “Average grades at school, rather courageous at times, no outside attachments to family or friends, Parselmouth, half-blood, and very affectionate and loyal.” Harry gave a snort.

“When I want to be.” Charlie looked beady eyed at Harry again.

“He will make an excellent submissive mate, or a pet, or even a guard- or just part of your clan. He is still a virgin.” Harry chuckled softly and shook his head.

“I’m not a virgin-,”

“Have you had sex since you’ve been turned, Potter?” Harry blinked at the question and Charlie gave a nod in approval.

“Let’s start at 100 gallons.” Harry’s eyes widened and then narrowed in confusion. Was this a bloody auction?

A vampire held his hand up and Harry’s assumptions were confirmed. Wait… what would happen to him if someone bought him? Voldemort allowed this to happen? “200 gallons.” A soft voice spoke from next to Harry, it sounded female but Harry was unsure.

“800 gallons.”

“900.”

“950.” It was between two figures both betting higher then the other. Harry was becoming slightly uncomfortable especially when one bet 1000 gallons. It was the same amount he won from the Triwizard Tournament. This was getting ridiculous- why would they bet so much?

After the one from across Harry bet 1100 gallons it got quiet. “Going once, twice…”

“2000 gallons.” A new voice spoke up from the back corner and Harry had to strain his neck to see yet another hooded figure raise his pale hand. The other kings remained silent, even after Charlie announced a three second count.

“Sold.” The smile upon Charlie’s face was wide but Harry sat traumatized in his chair. He had just been bought for 2000 gallons… to a vampire. As what? A pet? What the bloody hell is a pet?

“Thank you all gentlemen for coming today.” Charlie spoke up, standing greedily and reaching for a pack of papers. “Your highness if you could make your way up front and sign a few things- it would be my pleasure to hand over the newborn.” The kings all got up gracefully and swept silently from the room; all but one that is.

The hooded figure stood up, his statue was thin and average height. He made his way up front while reaching in his pocket and pulling out an ebony velvet pouch. Handing it to Charlie, who positively glowed, the king bent over the parchment and signed sophisticatedly on the line. Before Harry could see the signature, Charlie scooped it up and looked surprised at the name. “It is none of my business, your highness, but- you’re unmated… will you take the newborn as your mate or just simply as a pet?”

Harry perked up at this and looked at the veiled face. “You’re right; it is none of your business.” Came the sharp reply from pursed lips. Charlie gave a flustered movement as he stood up and bent at his waist. The king held out a delicate hand, which the heavy set man reached out for it and placed a kiss on the back palm.

“Well, I will leave you two. Thank you, your highness for your generous donation.” Charlie picked the sack of money up and gathering his paper.

“He was worth it.” The king murmured, reaching out a long arm and snatching the parchment from Charlie’s hands. “I’ll keep this.” For a moment it looked as if Charlie was about to rebuttal but then he remembered who he was talking to.

“Of course your majesty.” Dark beady eyes looked over at Harry and then swept out the door.

Harry just stood there for a moment, not wanting to even look at the king. “I believe introductions are in order, Harry.” The man’s velvet voice pierced Harry’s mind and he turned to see an outstretched hand toward him.

Like hell he would kiss it, Harry placed his hand and shook it. A chuckle raised the hair on Harry’s neck as his smaller hand was brought deep within the depths of the hood while a kiss was placed on his knuckles. “You look much better than the last time I saw you, absolutely gorgeous, my kitten. I was afraid I would have to bet all my savings to gain possession of you. But alas, it would be worth it.” If Harry’s heart wasn’t already stopped, it would’ve at the voice.

Hissing disgustingly, Harry tried to yank his hand from the oddly warm grasp. “I should’ve known.” Harry muttered, trying to back as far away from Sterling as possible but the vampire king just closed in on Harry and pressed him against the table. “Why did you come back here?”

“I told you- to bring you in my clan. I’ve given you enough time to cry over Greyback’s death and now I’m here to bring you back.” Harry pouted at the man’s hooded face.

“You knew where I was all this time? And yet you’ve never thought to contact me?”

Harry could just feel the smirk come across Sterling’s face. “I’m living in a manor with the rest of my clan close by, yes. We’ve been watching you for four years. And…” He paused, smirk growing larger. “Did you miss me, Harry? Is that why you wanted me to contact you?”

“Like hell it is.” Harry retorted, glowering at their clasped hands.

Bringing up their hands, Sterling stroked Harry’s cheek. “Well, I’ve missed you terribly- but I had to keep reminding myself that four years isn’t all that bad when you have an eternity together.” Becoming rather disgusted with the show of affection, Harry threw down their hands and clenched them to worm out of his grasp.

“What was the whole thing that just happened? Who was Charlie and what the bloody hell is a pet?” Harry asked, looking sideways at Sterling’s hooded features.

“It’s an auction for newborn or unclaimed vampires. Despite everything, vampires are rare and clans are getting smaller so we tend to keep a close eye on them. Charlie is head of the organization and he gets all the money.” Sterling paused and took a step closer. “Pets are… like whores in a way for the king’s pleasures.”

Harry made a grimace. “You have better not be thinking I’m going to be your pet because I will find a way to kill myself.” Sterling laughed outright and shook his head.

“I would never think of lowering you like that.”

“Have you had pets before?” Harry asked suspiciously. Sterling immediately tensed up and the atmosphere seemed to become tenser.

“Yes.” Harry looked away and locked eyes with Voldemort who had stepped into the room.

“I can’t believe you let this happen.” Harry demanded, brushing passed Sterling and reaching the Dark Lord’s side. “You manipulative old hag-,” Voldemort smirked and placed his finger on Harry’s lips to shut him up.

“I will miss you too, Harry. But you are not far from here and I expect weekly visits.” He looked pointedly over at Sterling who gave a nod in approval. Red eyes moved back down to meet Harry’s brilliant green ones. “Be nice.” He whispered amusingly in Harry’s ear.

“Don’t leave me with him.” Harry pouted, reaching out to grasp Tom’s robes. “Please Tom…”

Hands gripped the sides of his face and brought his attention close. “I didn’t want to say this before you left, but I should say it. You need to move on Harry. Sterling can give you a new opportunity at life, take a hold of it. Fenrir is dead. He has your wolf as company in the afterlife leaving you alone.” The words stung Harry but he tried not to show it. Of course, the man who taught him to close his mind could easily see through his mask. “I promise you you’ll be happy.” Fingers ran across his cheek in a farewell gesture. “I’ll see you next week.”

The Dark Lord straightened out and looked toward Sterling. “I already had his things packed, their over at your manor.” The two shared a brief stare down before Voldemort left the room.

Harry stood awkwardly as if his chest were burning from the inside out. He felt the vampire king come up beside him and gently take his arm. Harry grimaced as he felt a pull at his navel and suddenly they were standing in front of a tall, cherry wood door. Sterling, still holding Harry’s elbow, knocked sharply two times.

A peek hole slid open and bright yellow eyes looked down at them and then it slammed shut once again. Harry raised an eyebrow as the door opened slowly making Sterling shift with impatience. “Your highness.” The doorman bowed low at his waist as the two entered. “May I take your cloak?” Sterling gripped Harry’s elbow harder and shook his head.

“No, that will do. I will be showing Mr. Potter to his room…” Sterling tugged at Harry’s arm and in return, Harry tried to wrestle himself out the domineering hold.

“Will you stop tugging me like a damned puppet?” Harry hissed angrily but then shut his mouth as he was slammed against the nearest wall with Sterling’s hooded face crowding in on him.

“I find our quarrels to be rather amusing, Harry- but when we are among my clan you will treat me with respect, do you understand?” Harry gave a sharp nod, hating his situation. The aloneness made him feel pain in places he had never thought possible before. For the first time in his life he contemplated suicide.

Sterling let go of Harry and motioned him over to a door near the end of the corridor. He placed his hand on the door and with a snap, the latch opened. “It only opens to my hand print and of course yours… we’ll program it later.” He stood aside and let Harry go in first.

Harry would’ve been awed at the sight but he felt terrible at the moment. Dark wood furnished the bedroom with ebony and crimson fabric designing the canopy bed and armchair by the fireplace. Layers of dust settled on the nightstand and the mantle, but Harry paid it no heed. His trunk sat at the foot of the bed and he took a step forward in the lush carpet.

His eyes seemed to playing tricks on him… he squinted at the nightstand beside his bed and walked over to it. When he reached out a hand to touch the object, it was confirmed it was no illusion. It was a snow globe that sat on its golden perch. Inside it was a statue of a large grey wolf, touching noses with a black pup. Harry’s lips crumbled into a painful grimace as he reached out and caressed it.

“I thought you might like it.” Sterling’s voice came and the door shut behind the vampire.

Harry, careful not to drop it, grabbed it with soft hands and sat upon the bed- looking down at it. His eyes were locked on the scene, hoping against the fate that it was actually present time. Hoping his Fenrir wasn’t absent from his touch and that they would soon meet again and kiss away the loneliness they both felt. Fenrir would then take Harry in his arms and rock him back in forth in a comforting matter, whispering huskily about how he missed him… how painful it was during their separation.

“I want to tell you something, Harry… because I know you probably think I lead this royal life with whores and no lovers… but, I know what you’re going through.” Sterling was silent as he stood facing Harry’s hunched back. “I’ll make this i\as short is possible because it’s painful for me to speak of it. Actually you’re the only one that knows the complete story.”

Harry kept his back to Sterling and his eyes glued on the globe but he was listening. “I wasn’t always a vampire… I was a half-breed, born to a royal vampire father and a witch mother. She died giving birth to me and my father ran off to start his new clan. I was raised with my wizarding grandparents… back then it was seen as odd that both parents of mine were absent in my life- but I didn’t dwell on it.

“I met this beautiful woman and together we got married. She was everything to me… I thought we were soul mates as silly as that sounds. She knew everything about me and I knew everything about her. We had everything going for one another, life seemed perfect. A little while later she had a child, a little girl with her mothers blonde hair and blue eyes. I loved them…” Sterling broke off and Harry frowned.

“I wasn’t expecting my father to come back in my life but he did. He refused to let me live my life the way I wanted it and decided to take me fully into the vampire world. He ordered the deaths of my grandparents and my wife. I pleaded with him to spare my daughter and he did. I had to abandon her though and watch as my little girl grew older… and then older than I was- and then finally watch as her young face crumbled into an old woman’s with grey hair- lying inside a casket. I could’ve never let her know I was still alive.

“I lost the love of my life and I also lost the bond I had with my daughter I held so dearly. Over the long centauries, I forgave my father for what he did and embraced my new life. But let me tell you, Harry, not a day goes by when I don’t feel the pain of loosing my wife and daughter. I miss them, yes, but I moved on. I want to move on.

“That night, four years ago… Gabriel Greyback came to me with an offer. I would have your safety for Fenrir’s death.” Harry remained slouched, knowing deep down what Sterling’s declaration would be. “But I refused because I thought you deserved more time with your mate. I would’ve turned you later because of our blood bond, yes- but I knew you deserved Fenrir and vice versa. I never wanted to split you up- you have to trust me, Harry.”

Harry caressed the glass orb and gave a soft smile. “I oddly do, Sterling.” He whispered.

“Why I told you this, Harry-,” Sterling paused and made his way around the bed toward Harry. Soft hands grasped his chin and brought them to gaze at Sterling’s now uncloaked face. “I never want you to consider suicide, Harry. I wanted you to know that I understand what you’re gong through. The pain will never go- but you will move on and enjoy happiness with someone else.” The hand left and Harry gazed down at the globe again.

“That night you turned me you told me you did it because of your own selfish reasons… not because you care romantically for me. Is that true still?” Silence and Harry looked up at Sterling, only to find the man gone.

He turned around and looked across the room but he was not there either. “Coward.” Harry murmured softly- feeling oddly better after Sterling’s tale. His eyes locked on a goblet of blood at the nightstand and dismissed it for the moment.

He favored the snow globe and tipped it upside down, looking for a windup on the bottom. Seeing the gold turn object, Harry smiled and winded it up while shaking it at the same time. As he let the gold turn piece go, he tipped it right side up and watched the sparkling white flecks whirl around the two wolves as a soft melody played. Watching it, he felt his throat constrict and a dry sob came out his mouth. He promised himself no more outbursts, but too many things were bringing up the memory of Fenrir. He cradled it to his chest and watched it for what seemed like hours, twisting and turning it to allow it to play again and again until he went into a deep sleep.

Unique eyes watched him from the shadow and looked emotionless at the figure on the bed. The boy’s body was twisted awkwardly as he cradled the glass orb in his arms. He didn’t want to tell Harry his sob story until they were more comfortable around each other but seeing Harry’s familiar face expression that he, himself, had worn before made Sterling open his mouth. And he didn’t even want to give the boy the snow globe but seeing it in the shop’s display window made Sterling think of Harry immediately. Perhaps it would help him move on?

Sterling stepped up to the bed and gently removed the globe from Harry’s arms, moving it back to the nightstand where it wouldn’t break. He studied the grey wolf with content before turning back to the vampire boy. He bent down and studied his kitten’s face. Harry was very beautiful… stunning. Delicate bone structure, long black eyelashes, puckered pink lips… and when the eyelids were open, Sterling could stare into the glowing green orbs for eternity.

His lips softly traced Harry’s soft jaw line and crept up to the ear. “I want you.” He whispered softly, bringing up his sharp nail to run it across Harry’s bottom lip. “But how will you react if I told you?”

For a moment, Sterling dreamed Harry to open his eyes wide and declare he heard Sterling’s whispered desires and agreed with him. The two would then share a heated kiss with tongue and battle for dominance, which Sterling would win in the end. And for the rest of the morning, they would share passionate sex, experimenting with each other’s bodies… and then Sterling could bite and suck every inch of Harry- claming the boy as his own.

Sterling frowned at the fantasy and stood up. Harry was fragile at the moment; he could never push something like that on him.

Becoming slightly tired and weak himself, Sterling departed from the room to his bed chambers- only a few steps away from Harry’s rooms. His clan would all be sleeping now so why not take a break and rejuvenate? Tonight he would introduce Harry to the rest of the clan, while shooting warning looks at the unmated males.

Harry would be his.

--SH--

Harry laughed delightfully as his friend, Alban, did the most ridiculous move on the dance floor. Everything was going alright for Harry since he arrived. The clan was as close as it could be but yet far enough apart to live with each other with sanity. Harry was taught the traditions and roles of being a vampire these last few months and adapted easily among the rest of the clan. As far as Harry knew, they all liked him. Alban, his male friend seemed to be rather suggestive, and Harry loved it. He would never commit to anything with him but he thought it amusing to tease the king, Sterling. Still, the man never admitted to having a thing for Harry.

In due time.

Sterling kept his word and brought Harry to see Lord Voldemort each week and the two always talked about the wizarding world or other random problems as if Harry never left. He was even in contact with Sonar via owl, despite Sterling’s grumblings. His old friend was now the alpha to the pack, which Harry was happy for- yet oddly sad. No matter, Sonar was helping the pack continue on and that’s what mattered the most.

At the moment, the clan was having a small celebration for Sterling’s numerous birthdays. The king declared since the day he could no longer count his fingers and toes- he stopped keeping track of how old he was. There was a keg of blood, much to Harry’s amusement, and live victims in the next room. Sterling had been harassing Harry about learning how to drink from humans and he gave in. It was blissful but it still bothered him to feel the victim’s heart die down and then stop. When he had lured and killed his first victim, Harry smelt Sterling’s arousal- but successfully ignored it.

That was another thing Harry learned. Vampires had a small amount of blood within their systems- both their own and their victims so it was possible to create a hard-on. And they were able to reproduce, something Harry still didn’t understand.

“Come on, Harry.” Alban taunted from the dance floor, coming toward Harry who stood by the refreshment table.

Green eyes studied Alban from beneath his lashes. His friend was rather attractive, long wavy brown hair and dark brown eyes. He was tall in statue but oddly skinny. If Harry wasn’t trying to get Sterling jealous and if Alban wasn’t trying to get his own prey jealous, the two would probably get together. Alban had his sights on Sterling’s closest accessory, Bradley.

Tonight though, Alban was all for Harry and Sterling to get together.

Harry glanced a look at Sterling to notice the man’s eyes settled heavily on Alban with a dangerous glint in them. That was another way Fenrir and him were different. Harry had spent a whole day comparing the two and came up with a very long list. Silver hair… crimson hair, werewolf… vampire, tall… shorter, burly…thin, inpatient… patient, reckless… dangerously tame, powerful in strength… powerful in gaze and magic, roughish… elegant, meat… blood, canines… incisors, loving… stoic.

The list went on but Harry came to the conclusion no matter how many things were on his list. The two were different. They weren’t the same person and Harry wasn’t replacing Fenrir with someone who was just like him. It made his chest much lighter at that realization.

Alban placed his hands on Harry’s hips and swung him out on the dance floor. Music was playing to a fast tempo almost techno and Harry swung his hips to the beat. Never in his life would he have thought he would be doing this… all for a stubborn man. Alban closed the distance between them and brought his hands to the middle of Harry’s small back. Despite the loud music Sterling would be able to hear from where he sat, so Alban bent down to chuckle in Harry's ear. “Pretend your having the time of your life… both of our prey are watching.”

Harry gave a delighted laugh and looked coyly up at Alban’s face. “I am having a good time, don’t tell me your not?” He stuck out his bottom lip as Alban took his arm and spun him around.

“Oh, my dear, I am.” He purred and rubbed each other’s groins together. Harry gave a nervous chuckle as he buried his face in his vampire friend’s chest. “You’re getting it tonight, Harry.” Alban warned amusingly, watching Sterling rise from his position and come gliding over to them.

“If I could borrow Harry for the rest of the night?” Sterling asked, but not waiting for an answer as he grabbed Harry’s elbow and steered him away from Alban.

Looking back at Alban, Harry witnessed Bradley make his own move on his friend. Ah, things were perfect. Once they were out of the chamber where the party was, Harry was let go and he faced Sterling. He could’ve sworn cold sweat was making its way down Harry’s back as he gazed at the king’s face. It was dangerous… as if the man was corning his prey. “Er, happy birthday?” Harry replied.

“Being coy with me won’t work, kitten. Your acting skills are terrible when it comes to affection... I was not affected by the display with you and your little friend.” Harry was about to open his mouth to point out he was affected until the man took a step closer. “But I was affected by Alban’s little grinding he did with you. It’s a very dangerous game you play, Harry.”

Harry was taking steps backwards every time Sterling took one forward. Just by the pictures and tapestry on the walls, Harry realized they were making their way down to Sterling’s bed chambers. The man’s gaze was sharp and something much darker played behind them. “I’m ready to play.” Harry whispered out.

Eyes becoming alight, Sterling allowed a small smirk to cross his features. “Are you positive on that?” His long fingers twitched toward Harry but fell back again.

Slowly they were coming closer to Sterling’s bedroom- Harry backwards while Sterling continued to advance. “Yes.”

Harry stopped when Sterling stopped his steps but gave a gasp as the vampire brought out a hand and slammed him into a door. Instantly Sterling was pressing himself against the smaller, running his hands up and down Harry’s clothed body. Green eyes watched as Sterling shut his own eyes and inhaled his scent. Those thin lips of the king’s were forming into a kiss as they bent down and captured Harry’s neck into an innocent kiss. Becoming oddly disappointed, Harry frowned up at Sterling.

The vampire king moved away from Harry and looked down at him. “Don’t you understand why I didn’t want to tell you I desired you?” Sterling asked uncertainly, looking vulnerable for the first time Harry had seen him.

Harry pushed off the door and grabbed Sterling’s hands in his. “I understand perfectly, Sterling and you don’t realize how much I respect that. I want to move on… with you.” Harry cocked his head to the side and shook his head. “Sometimes I think you put on this badass attitude to cover up your thoughtfulness and vulnerability.”

“Only for you.” Sterling murmured, squeezing Harry’s hand with his own. “Now that the moment is gone…” He trailed off looking down at Harry with a slight smile on his face. “Why don’t you come in my room?” He pulled Harry’s hand toward the door and opened it.

“No- get out.” Sterling hissed shooing his black panther off the bed and out the door. She growled and remained where she was. “Shayde, down.” The black panther took one looked at her master’s furious face and got up off the bed. She passed Harry and rubbed her side against his leg with a purr. Harry was about to get down on his knees to pet Shayde until Sterling yanked on his arm with a warning hiss.

Shayde gave an angry look at Sterling but left the room. The king slammed the door shut behind her and turned to survey Harry with hooded eyes. “Where were we, love?”

“I have no idea.” Harry murmured, looking around the room. It was similar to his own room, save for the absence of a snow globe on his nightstand. Sterling came up behind him and hands made their way around his waist and gently slipped underneath his shirt. Harry had a goofy smile on his face as he leaned against the king’s chest.

“I need you.” Sterling whispered seductively in his ear while his tongue ventured out to caress the outer lobe.

Harry gave a moan and turned around in his arms. “And I want you.” He leaned forward and connected their lips together. For being a vampire, Harry was surprised to feel warmth surrounding him as Sterling pushed him on the bed and straddled his hips. The vampire king kissed back slow and passionately while unbuttoning Harry shirt in a leisurely pace.

“Patience…” Sterling chuckled and bent down to suck at Harry’s exposed neck, letting his sharp teeth make marks across the throat.

Nothing about their love making was fast or inpatient, Sterling kept a cadenced rhythm the whole night; another thing Harry could add to his list of differences. He was left in a state of distraught madness with Sterling’s caresses and bites over his body. The vampire had a way with his hands and voice that both amused Harry and sent him over the edge. He felt like a rag doll in Sterling’s hands, but it felt good and the man was enjoying it all too much.

They lay in each other’s arms afterward, spooning, with Sterling’s arms wrapped around Harry in a loving embrace. His nails were making tracks along Harry’s thin arms causing the boy to snort in laughter a few times. Green eyes danced as he looked behind him. He knew inside, he would never be rid of the memories of Fenrir- or the pain of loosing him; but Sterling would be there for him to make new memories and experience things Harry had never been able to before.

And Harry would do the same for Sterling. With time, they will come to love each other- and create a bond that would withstand anything.

Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end.