Kate spent the next couple of weeks acclimatizing herself to life at the school and found herself establishing a very comfortable routine. As the time drew nearer to the first day of class she found she was becoming nervous and stressed, and it climaxed in a splitting headache. She sought out Dumbledore a few hours prior to the welcoming feast, and found him in his office conversing with Professor Snape. Over the past couple of weeks Snape had done his best to avoid her company, and when he was forced to socialize with her he was his usual distant cold self, but his remoteness only fueled Kate's fascination for the brilliant ex potion's master. She was utterly charmed by his intellect, fierceness and intense focus, often she would watch him gesture when he spoke and wondered what it would feel like to have her flesh be the center of attention for those long, graceful fingers. Now, however, she was in too much pain to entertain any erotic thoughts at all. Both men rose when she entered, and Snape purposefully avoided eye contact.
"Kate, whatever is the matter my dear?" Dumbledore asked. Snape's eyes shot to her pale haggard face at the headmaster's words, and he frowned slightly.
"I am having a horrific headache and I didn't think to bring anything from home to cure it. I don't think I will be able to attend the welcoming feast, at this point I only want to attend my own funeral." She gasped out as she massaged her temples. Snape took an involuntary step closer to her before he caught himself. The movement was not missed by Dumbledore though, and the old man bit back a smile.
"You are in luck, we are in the company of the finest potion's man there is, Severus would you be so good as to assist our colleague with a headache potion?" Snape's eyes widened slightly then he scowled and nodded.
"If you will be so good as to come with me Miss Lindsey, I will make you a remedy in the potion's classroom." His tone was frosty but Dumbledore saw a softness in his black eyes when he looked at the woman before them. Kate murmured thanks to Dumbledore and quietly walked beside Severus as they made their way to the potion's classroom. She was eternally grateful the lighting was dim in the halls as her head throbbed with each step and beat of her heart. They entered the classroom and Kate followed behind Severus and he bid her wait by the teachers table while he gathered supplies.
"Did you sleep at all last night?" He called from the closet.
"No, I couldn't. I was hoping it would fade by morning but it just did a steady escalation all day." She replied.
"Do you have any medical conditions that I need to know about? And why did you wait so long to come for relief, it was quite foolish." He said.
"No I am healthy as a horse, and I thought it would go away. Besides I was exactly thinking clearly with this vise on my head."
"That answers my next question, it is vise like. Throbbing? Light halos?" He moved gracefully to the table and set his supplies down then motioned for her to sit on the surface of the table. Once seated, she looked at him through half lidded eyes, lack of sleep and pain had taken the sparkle from their beautiful depths.
"Yes to all."
"Ever have migraines before?" He asked. Kate caught her breath as he took her chin in his fingers and looked into her eyes.
"Only when I was younger but they were caused by medication." She said.
"Medication? What medication?" His brows rose as he released her chin and moved to begin preparing the needed ingredients.
"Well birth control if you must know." Kate's face flamed. He was too near, and she felt a strong pull to him whenever he came close. Severus's hand hesitated only slightly as he competently chopped and combined ingredients before adding some fluid and placing the whole mixture into a mini cauldron and putting it over a sterno flame. If her head wasn't killing her she would have laughed at something as mundane as sterno being used by so powerful a wizard.
"Well, I will assume you haven't started taking that again, so what could have caused this headache." His voice was soothing to her ragged nerves.
"Well I think its stress; I have been a bit anxious and nervous about the term beginning." She sighed and looked down at her hands. Severus was floored by her admission; the woman never appeared shaken by anything, he had never once seen her back down from a challenge, or show fear over anything.
"You nervous? I cannot believe it." Snape snorted as he poured the steaming liquid into a pewter goblet. Kate laughed then clutched her head and stomach all at once. The pain that shot through her head made her nauseous. "Easy there." Snape's hand rubbed her shoulder gently, and then realizing what he did he snatched his hand back quickly.
"Yes, it's true; the thought of facing all those new kids is kinda making me nervous. I think the difference is this people have incredible powers, and I am just an average human being." She sighed, taking the goblet from his outstretched hand and sipping it slowly. "God in heaven what the hell is in this? It tastes like dead smells. Uggh." She grimaced and stuck out her tongue. Snape laughed despite himself, and Kate looked at him incredulously. "Was that a laugh, did I just hear the dour Professor Snape laugh?" She gave a pained smile.
"Of course not. Now drink it down, don't savor it. Didn't your mother ever tell you that medicine is supposed to taste bad?" He returned.
"Yes she did, but in the muggle world we have these wonderful things called pills, you should look into it. And yes you did laugh, it was an absolutely fabulous sound, but don't be afraid, it only hurts the first time and gets easier the more you do it." She gave a half hearted grin. Severus rolled his eyes as he cleaned up and put away the jars and bottles he had used. As he returned to where she still sat perched on the tabletop he nearly laughed again as she gave a huge yawn and her eyelids drooped dangerously.
"I have heard of some of your muggle pills, and the effects are sometimes worse than the malady. By the way, that headache remedy will work fast but it has a sleeping draught in it." He smirked at her surprised expression.
"You doped me, you fiend!" She said almost drunkenly.
"I did, and you will sleep and feel much better in the morning." He replied. Kate felt every muscle in her body relax and her headache fade as the potion took full effect, the last thing she remembered before falling deeply asleep was Severus's arms cradling her to him as he lifted her in his arms and carried her to her room.
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Kate awakened refreshed the following morning, and smiled to herself as she remembered Severus's unexpected laughter, it was a sound she intended to hear more of in the future. She dressed with care; it had been her experience that when dealing with teenage boys it was useful to disarm them through their libido. Once they worshiped you there was less chance of them pulling nasty little tricks. She had decided on a black suede skirt that fell two inches above her knee, black stockings and black suede pumps. A purple sweater set completed the ensemble. She turned from the mirror and picked up her leather messenger bag and headed out the door. As soon as she hit the hall she was the subject of intense scrutiny by the student body. Rumors and gossip had flown as soon as word got out that there was a new muggle instructor. She pasted a bright smile on her face and nodded to the students she passed, feeling as if she were running a gauntlet as she made her way to her class room. Finally she arrived at her room, and was relieved to see that she had a good twenty minutes to spare. She had stocked and arranged her room the preceding week and was now glad she had these last few minutes to compose herself. Muggle studies had been made a requirement for 6th year students and she had a full roster, she touched the crystal necklace that lay around her neck and was grateful for the spell that Dumbledore had placed on her, warding off any malicious magicks. As the first of the students filed in she arranged some papers on her desk then walked around to stand in front of her desk and smile at each student as the class filled.
"Good Morning. I am Ms. Lindsey and I will be teaching Muggle studies. I realize that many of you had no intention of taking this course until it was made a requirement, and hope that you will find it to be beneficial to you in the course of your lives." Her smile was returned by nearly every student, and the majority of discontent seemed to come singularly from the Slytherin students, and Kate blew this off immediately. One of the Slytherin young men unabashedly ogled her, his eyes far too knowledgeable for Kate's comfort. He had white blond hair and pale eyes, tall and slim with broad shoulders and a handsome face. She looked down at her seating chart and identified him as Draco Malfoy. Kate quirked an eyebrow at him and sent him a quelling glance. "The ministry believes that more and more of you will have to make your way in the muggle world as times progress, and in order to facilitate your success they recommended that this course be made mandatory. They were further inspired that it be taught by a muggle, hence my presence here amongst you." She smiled brightly again upon finishing her speech. "I want to let you know my door is always open, if you find yourself with questions that don't get answered in class feel free to see me afterward." Kate picked up the textbook and leaned her bottom against her desk and began to teach. All in all the class went well even though she had to reprimand several Slytherin students for their attitudes regarding non magical society as well as some very pert remarks about her own attractiveness. When the last students of the day left the room she sat on her chair and leaned back, propping her legs on the desk, ankles crossed. Sighing she rubbed her temples and yawned as her stomach reminded her she had skipped breakfast and lunch.
"Rough day?" The rich baritone ran down her spine like warm honey. A smile lifted the corners of her mouth.
"Of course, you know they did their best to test me Severus. By the way your house lost 50 points today when Mr. Malfoy launched into a vivid description of what he would like to do to me if he ever got me alone." She arched her eyebrow at him. His rose in response as he eyes made their way up her stocking clad legs to where her skirt had slid up to mid thigh. Lust curled inside him and he smirked at her mockingly.
"Perhaps you should look into wearing a...hmmm, I don't know, burka maybe?" A velvet chuckle escaped his lips. Kate bit back a grin, thrilled by this new, teasing side of him.
"That was the most sexist thing I have heard since I came here. I am astonished at you Professor; would you truly have me wear a tent to teach in?" Her left eyebrow rose.
"On the contrary Ms. Lindsey, I have great affection for your current apparel. However pubescent males may have a bit of a hard time controlling their urges." His face slowly turned serious. "Have a care with Mr. Malfoy Kate, he doesn't think he should be bound by the same rules and conduct as others. This has been reinforced by his parents and their belief in pureblood supremacy." Kate frowned up at him and removed her legs from her desk to stand.
"I hope you are not suggesting I give him preferential treatment because of an accident of birth?" She said hotly. Severus was mesmerized by the fire that raged through her eyes, her passion was intoxicating and he struggled to contain his response.
"No, not at all. I am just warning you that any harsh treatment from you will result in a confrontation with his father, and I promise you that is something you would do well to avoid. Lucius despises muggles, and has a penchant for torturing and killing them; I shudder to think what he would do with you." His words were scathing, but concern shone in his black eyes. Kate was undaunted, he could see the lack of fear in her direct gaze and it concerned him, Lucius Malfoy would chew her up and spit her out.
"I appreciate your concern Severus, you may be sure I do not single children out to make examples of them, nor do I embarrass them in front of others, but I do exercise healthy discipline in my classroom." Kate dialed down her irritation, feeling guilty about lashing out at him when he was truly trying to help her. "As for Mr. Malfoy, I am not afraid of him, reputation not withstanding. " Kate sighed and picked up her bag, filling it with the papers from her desk. "I'm starving, are you going to the staff dining room?"
"No, actually I have great plans to feed myself tonight." Kate brows rose at his words.
"You're cooking?" Her eyes brightened. Snape narrowed his eyes at her. "I haven't had a home cooked meal in ages..."
"Ms. Lindsey, are you fishing for an invitation?" He growled.
"I do hope I wasn't that vague, I insist on you inviting me." Her eyes sparkled at him.
"Indeed." He continued to survey her through narrowed eyes. Inwardly his emotions churned. Severus was desperately attracted to this muggle; she had gotten under his skin like no one ever had since... For weeks he had tried to avoid her but it just made the desire to speak with her stronger. He had no room in his life at present for this or any type of entanglement, and desire and caution warred within him. He sighed heavily. "Very well Ms. Lindsey. Would you care to have supper with me?" Kate grinned widely.
"I would be honored Severus. Let me run to my room and change and I will be with you directly." She slung her bag over her shoulder and slipped past him quickly before he had time to change his mind. Severus's eyes were riveted to her retreating figure and he lambasted himself for being weak. Throwing up his hands, he swept from the classroom and headed to his rooms to prepare for dinner.
Kate left her sweater set on and pulled on a faded pair of jeans and some tennis shoes. She ran her hands through her hair, excited at the prospect of spending an entire evening alone with the intriguing, enticing Professor Snape. Kate didn't bother to analyze why she was so attracted to him, she knew he had done all he could to alienate her and make her dislike him but every time he was near her, her whole body tingled with awareness and desire. Snape was consumed with similar thoughts as he entered his room and shed his robe, rolling up the long sleeves of his shirt he pulled the hem from the waistband before tying on an apron. She infuriated him, drove him insane with her ever cheerful attitude, stimulated his mind with her intellect and stimulated his desire with her every breath. His mind filled with images of those incredibly long legs wrapped around his waist and he fought desperately to vanquish them, mentally reciting potion after potion as he pulled the fixings for his stew out of the refrigerator and pantry.
Kate took a deep breath and exhaled slowly as she stood in front of Severus's door, then rapped firmly on the ancient woodwork. Inside Severus jumped in surprise and dropped his knife on the cutting board, and then wiping his hands on the apron he strode to the door. He pulled open the door and fell into the deep moss green of her eyes. Kate in turn fell into the black depths of his. Good God Kate, you are in so much trouble with this man! She thought absently. Severus recovered himself and stepped back, inhaling the scent of her as she walked past him into the room. Kate surveyed his quarters, discovering the good Professor was very tidy. A small sitting area faced a roaring fire, the compact yet efficient kitchen stood towards the back, and through a doorway she could see his bed chamber, the high four poster bed swathed in black and green velvet. She smiled and turned quickly, catching him looking at her curvy behind and smiled inwardly.
"I'm sorry to come empty handed. I had no time to go after wine or flowers or books of ancient curses..." She halted as a laugh bubbled forth.
"Totally unnecessary I assure you. The wine is already chilled, if you would like to have a seat I will bring you a glass." He gestured to the lush sofa in front of the fire. Kate completely ignored him and followed as he went to the kitchen. She seated herself on a stool next to the island where he was preparing the food. Severus turned and saw her, scowling a bit as he handed her a glass of ruby red wine. "I believe you would be more comfortable in the sitting area." He said.
"I prefer to sit here so we can talk while you cook. You know, I feel wickedly decadent just sitting here letting you do all the work. I would offer to help but I am enjoying the sensation so much that I can't seem to summon the desire." She grinned cheekily at him sipping her wine and Severus fought back a smile. He began to expertly dice vegetables and potatoes, occasionally stirring the beef he had browning in a pot on the stove.
"I insist you remain where you are, Merlin knows what trouble you would cause in my kitchen." His eyes flashed almost playfully at her and she just grinned in return, good naturedly allowing the insult to pass. She admired the skill and grace that his fingers displayed as they made short work of the prep, and the wonderful smell of garlic and cooking onion filled the room making her stomach growl loudly. Snape smirked at the sound and went to the oven, pulling out a baking sheet loaded with golden, flaky cheese crisps, making Kate's mouth water at the scent. He deftly piled them on a serving plate and set it before her, refilling her wine as he did so. The wine was playing havoc with her empty stomach, making her feel warm and languid. It amplified the effect his deep voice had on her and she felt desire stir. Biting into a cheese crisp she moaned and closed her eyes, savoring the savory goodness, and Severus was transfixed by her expression, feeling arousal encompass him at her ecstatic look. Abruptly he spun about and added some seasonings to his stew then covered the pot tightly, wishing he could cover his emotions so well.
"These are heavenly Severus." She purred and the sound rippled down his spine.
"Thank you." He said shortly. She licked crumbs from her lips and a chill raced through him. Her lips were a perfect cupid's bow, not overly large but not thin and they seemed to beg for his kiss. Severus shook his head to clear it and returned to the stove to stir the stew. They chatted idle for a long while, sipping at wine and nibbling on the cheese crisps.
"I take it Slytherin will have no chance for the house cup this year if you make it a habit to deduct points as you did today." He said dryly. Kate narrowed her eyes at him.
"I resent that Severus; I have no intention of arbitrarily handing out deductions. I would advise you to have a conversation with Malfoy regarding his ego and libido." She arched a brow at him loftily. "And as for the other Slytherins, they need only mind their manners." Severus crossed his arms on his chest, leveling a look at her. From this angle she noticed a tattoo on the underside of his forearm she hadn't seen before. Noticing her interest he glanced down, realizing the Dark Lord's mark was visible with his sleeve rolled up. He hastily rolled his sleeves down and buttoned them, Kate frowned at his actions as she had no idea what the mark was.
"I assure you I will caution them regarding showing the proper respect for all the instructors." He offered a weak smile, but Kate was not deterred by his words.
"Is that a tattoo? Severus Snape has a tattoo? Wild night Severus?" She grinned at him.
"You might say that." He retuned.
"What, exactly does it take to make you do something wild and impetuous?" She asked impishly, taking a long drink of her wine.
"I feel compelled to answer by asking what it would take to make you behave in a reserved, cautious manner." He smirked at her. Kate squinted at him and bit back another smile as Severus drained his wine glass before refilled both their glasses.
"Would you really want me to become quiet and unassuming? To walk about silently with a dour expression?" She replied. Severus turned to walk back to the stove, but she caught what he said.
"I wouldn't change anything about you." She grinned foolishly at his back as he dished up stew into two earthenware bowls, added slices of dark bread to the plates that held them and carried it all to the table that sat adjacent to the kitchen. She watched as he returned to the kitchen and gathered salt, pepper and butter in a little crock, and took them to the table. Severus turned and looked at her expectantly as he held out her chair. Kate rose and wobbled tipsily for a minute causing Snape to reach out and take her elbow to steady her.
"Thanks, too much wine on an empty stomach I think." She grinned as she sat gracefully on the chair. When Severus joined her she picked up her spoon and took a bite. "Severus, you really are a wonderful cook." Kate was rewarded with a light flush across his pale features.
"Thank you, my mother taught me." He bent slightly over his food as Kate dug in with gusto. They conversed lightly over trivial things throughout the meal, enjoying one another's company and insights until Kate finally leaned back and rubbed her stomach.
"I ate too much; fortunately I believe it sobered me up." Her eyes sparkled at him mischievously. "So, if you were planning to take advantage of me in a weakened condition it's too late." A laugh burbled out. Severus decided to fight fire with fire.
"I promise you this, should I ever decide to take advantage you will be completely sober." He growled out with a small smile. Kate's eyebrows shot up in surprise then she began laughing in earnest.
"Oh Severus, I think I am a very bad influence on you!" She laughed.
"Indeed, I believe you may be." A broad smile stole across his face and Kate delighted in the sight.
"Well, I suppose I should go back to my room and tweak my lesson plan before I turn in. Severus, this has been a true pleasure, the meal was wonderful and the company charming. I am quite glad I invited myself." She said with cheek. Severus stood and offered his hand to help her rise.
"I have enjoyed it." He said soberly, though his face still held a memory of a smile. He escorted her to the door where she declined his offer of an escort to her room. She moved to take a step then whirled and leaned up, kissing him softly on the lips before fleeing to the safety of her room, leaving Snape dazed and delighted by her tribute.
