A/N: So this idea for a story has been going round in my head for some time now and I thought others might appreciate it too. I hope you enjoy my first chapter of The Mistress and the Potions Master. As always, any feedback is greatly appreciated.

Disclaimer: Unfortunately not mine.

The Mistress and the Potions Master

Eleanor Crestwell had always been a studious, hard working individual. Her intelligence far surpassed her years, choosing nights by the fire reading instead of gallivanting with boys as she knew her peers did. It wasn't that she wasn't interested in members of the opposite sex; far from it in fact. She just knew none of the boys she was surrounded by could sweep her off her feet in ways that made her skin tingle and body breathless. Her mother had tried to instil old-fashioned ways in her, and though she may not agree with many of the ways of the past, romance was one they always agreed on. She wanted to be courted properly.

She came from a long line of pure blood witches and wizards; her family name once held in high regard within the highest of social circles. He father had never explained the reasons to her or her mother as to the sudden decline in their social standing but she was inclined to believe it was because her father was a coward. He was once a follower of the dark side and she had a feeling he traded names for freedom after the War, though he would never admit to this.

Traditional pure blood's through-and-through, her parents would give all they have to be seen with the likes of Malfoys once more. Her mother wanted nothing more than to feature in the Society Pages of Witch Weekly and her father would trade an arm to discuss current wizarding affairs with the Flints. She did not inherit her parents ways. She believed in goodness and kindness rather than a person's heritage.

Growing up had not been a difficult time for Eleanor but she knew it was flawed. Her parents obsession to keep up with the Jones' had led to financial struggle at times and she did not want to think how much money her father owed the Goblins. He worked a mediocre job within the Ministry of Magic that did not pay well enough for his and her mother's taste. The family inheritance was long since spent on extravagant dinner parties, elegant robes and other frivolous purchases to fit in with the well to-do. Eleanor was surprised the manor still belonged to them and had not yet been seized. It would only be a matter of time.

It came as no surprise when she received her Hogwarts acceptance letter. Eleanor was always a bright child. Often left unsupervised and with no siblings to play with, she spent her time in the family library reading everything from her father's old potions text books to her mother's romance novels. Her 11 year old self was adamant she would be a Ravenclaw. Her thirst for knowledge far outweighing her families ideals and prejudices. The Sorting Hat had a different idea, taking all of 5 seconds to place her in Syltherin.

She had not let that hold her back and had pushed to achieve Outstanding O.W.L results in all subjects at the end of her fifth year. Any parent would of been proud of her achievements however Eleanor's mother had merely stated that men did not find intelligence attractive but rather intimidating. She however didn't want to compromise and felt a man should love her for everything including her intelligence. Why would she want someone who couldn't hold a conversation with her? She knew she'd be bored stiff in a matter of days.

Her sixth year at Hogwarts was now coming to an end. To say it had been an eventful year would have been understatement. She reminisced on quieter times when she had the freedom to visit the library without an escort or wonder the corridors without fear. The previous year a Troll had invaded the school causing a brief bout of chaos among the students. This year, although she did not know the full story, she knew it was bad. Students lay petrified in the Hospital Wing awaiting a cure, there were whisperings that the school were to close and accusations were flying as to who had opened the Chamber of Secrets. The teachers were tight lipped about the whole incident though she knew Harry Potter had once again saved the day. She did not care an ounce who had rectified the problems, just glad things could return to the way they were and she could continue with her studies at Hogwarts.

Her final essay for Potions was due the following day and though she had finished it days before something had occurred to her regarding her studies on the Hiccoughing Solution. She knew she would not rest until she had thoroughly fact checked her work so headed to the library in order to find the text she originally used. The benefit of being quiet was that few people remembered her name meaning she could quickly make her way through the throngs of students that congregated in the communal areas without having to stop and make idle chit chat. Her journey from the dungeons to the third floor came to an abrupt stop however when she collided with a strong, and definitely male form. Ending up sprawled on the floor in an unlady-like manner that would definitely have her scolded by her mother if she could see her, Eleanor took a breath to compose herself. A cane came into her view and she traced it all the way up its owner. Lucius Malfoy.

Quickly averting her eyes from his angry stare she glanced down noticing that her school skirt had ridden up to show far more than what would be considered decent. Rapidly tugging at the skirt she could feel her cheeks heat under his watchful gaze. A hand was offered and she knew it rude to refuse. He had a strong grasp on her as he helped her to her feet. Eleanor chanced another glance at the regal man in front of her. The look of anger had since dispersed and in its place was one that she did not sit well with her. It was a look someone might give to new Nimbus 2000 they were thinking of purchasing; weighing up the pros and cons before making a decision on whether it was right for them.

"A lady should take care wandering the corridors alone. They never know what dangers are lurking in the shadows," his voice was tipped with something that made Eleanor uncomfortable. She had a feeling the dangers he referred to were standing in front of her.

"I apologise Mr Malfoy. I did not mean to run into you, it was merely an error on my behalf. I should be more careful," She responded trying to sound much more confident than she felt.

"Ah, now you are at an advantage it would seem. You know my name though I know nothing of you my dear," he coolly replied.

"Everyone knows your name Sir, it should come as no surprise."

"Your name," his tone was more demanding second time round. She knew better than to cause trouble with the Malfoys.

"Eleanor Crestwell. It's pleasure to meet you Sir," she had been taught to respect those in a higher social standing than herself, and whether she agreed with it or not she knew it would evidently reflect on her parents and her upbringing.

"Gideon's daughter," he almost seem happy by the news of her parentage. "I'll let you be on your way Miss Crestwell. Please do tell your parents that I enquired after them. It's been too long since our last soiree; perhaps they would like to attend dinner at the manor? I shall endeavour to owl them on my return. Ensure you stay safe Miss Crestwell." His eyes locked with hers, a slight smirk playing on his lips before he stepped back allowing her to pass.

"Good day Sir," she managed to mutter before lowering her eyes and quickly scurrying to the library. She could feel his gaze on her, wanting nothing more than to get to the library and forget the brief encounter with Lucius Malfoy. She didn't understand why he wanted to contact her parents. They had not spoken in many years and she was under the impression that their relationship was frosty. She did not think he would contact them, he was merely being polite. They did not need to know of his offer; if he was a man of his word they would find out soon enough as is. She felt her shoulders relax and the tension leave her body once she entered the library, deciding she would not longer think about her run in with Malfoy Senior.

Lucius Malfoy abandoned plans of heading straight home and instead detoured towards the dungeons. His run in with the delightful Miss Crestwell had left him with questions that he believed her Head of House would be able to answer. He strolled into the office of Severus Snape, flicking his cane to close the door behind him.

"I see your manners haven't improved Lucius," came Severus' familiar drawl. He finished marking the paper that was in front of him before lifting his head. Lucius took the time to take a seat in the cold leather chair that looked far more comfortable than it actually was. He wouldn't be surprised if it had been charmed so students did not feel the need to stay longer than necessary.

"It's good to see you too Severus, how have you been keeping?" Lucius drawled sarcastically.

"To what do I owe this social visit? I wasn't aware that you were at the castle today?" Severus sat back slightly in his chair, leaning over to open his bottom right-hand drawer and pulled out a bottle of Scotch. He showed the bottle to Lucius and, receiving a nod from the wizard, poured himself and his guest a glass.

"I do not wish to discuss the unfortunate events that led me here today, just know that they are ... resolved," he muttered through clenched teeth, "Can I not come visit my old friend without other cause?" He took a sip of Scotch before leaning back in the leather chair.

"No." Severus said simply, "I know you too well to believe otherwise," a smirk played on Severus' lips as he studied the wizard in front of him.

"Fine. I wished to discuss one of your students I had the pleasure of meeting this afternoon."

Severus straightened slightly, worried as to where the conversation was going. He concealed his emotions.

Lucius continued, "Miss Crestwell. I have to say she has grown into a very lovely young lady."

"I had not noticed Lucius," came Severus' response.

"How can you not old friend. She has an air of sophistication with an undertone of defiance that I would take great delight beating out of her. Tell me, what do you know of Miss Crestwell? Any romantic liaisons I should be made aware of?"

"She intelligent; too intelligent for you. She keeps herself to herself and has little time for anyone, let alone those of the opposite sex."

"Perfect," came Lucius' reply.

"What happened to Melania? I thought you were quite pleased with her?" Melania was Lucius' current mistress. It was quite well known, and quite usual, that wizards of a certain standing took a mistress to exercise certain pleasures they did not wish to act on their wives. Wives like Narcissa were for bearing an heir. They deserved tenderness from their husband. Melania allowed Lucius to act out his more carnal desires, using her body how he saw fit. Obviously he ensured that she was looked after in return. She had a flat in London, a funded Gringotts account and no need to work. She went when she was summoned but had her freedom to a degree.

"Melania is not quite how she used to be. I feel she is getting rather comfortable. I believe the time has come to let her go and find someone new. Someone a bit of a challenge. I always did like a challenge," he quirked his eyebrow at this statement, taking his last sip of Scoth before setting his glass on the desk in front of him.

"I thought students would be a bit young for your tastes Lucius," Severus enquired.

Lucius shrugged, "usually I would but there was something about Miss Crestwell that captivated me. She is a very attractive young lady who I think will do well. I'll set up a meeting with her parents to discuss the details. It's her final year next year?"

"It is yes."

He pondered this information before rising from the chair. "It's been good to see you Severus. You must visit the manor over summer for dinner?"

"I will consider it," Severus replied, standing to show Lucius to the door.

"I shall keep you update regarding Miss Crestwell. Good day Severus," with that Lucius swept out of the room, his robes swishing gracefully around his legs. Severus closed the door behind him and leant his forehead against it. He would have to tell Dumbledore. Eleanor Crestwell was not Lucius' type. He preferred them somewhat unintelligent, much bigger assets and those who were easily impressed by trinkets and money. He knew Eleanor wasn't like that. He meant what he said, she was far too good for him.

He sat back at his desk and poured himself another Scotch. He couldn't blame Lucius in a way. He was lying when he said he'd not noticed the woman she'd blossomed into. Obviously he would never abuse his teacher position and pursue anything, but he could appreciate from a distance. He finished his drink and vowed to tell Dumbledore in the morning. It had been a chaotic few days without adding anything else to the mix.

A/N: First chapter done! I always love feedback (as I think everyone does) so please drop me a line if you enjoyed it - or if you didn't! Off to start chapter 2 now!

Thanks

Elle