Hermione was so excited, today was going to be a day of firsts. After days of dropping subtle hints to out and out pestering Uncle Severus had finally agreed. All four of them were about to travel through the floo to a completely magical day, literally, at Diagon Alley. As they waited for Aunty Bella to get organised, Hermione sneaked a look at Uncle Severus. At first he looked his usual blank self but there was a little muscle at the side of his mouth twitching and small tense lines around his mouth. Thinking back to the conversation they'd all had the night before Hermione thought she knew why.

They'd finished dinner and as usual she and Harry had gotten up to start clearing the table when Uncle Severus had instructed them to sit back down.

"After careful consideration Bella and I have decided to take a trip to Diagon Alley with you tomorrow."

She remembered the little squeal of happiness she'd given and hearing Harry whispering "Cool". But the excitement didn't last long

"I am in need of potions ingredients," Snape continued "and you will need measuring for wizarding attire, winter cloaks and the like. However, we must exercise caution I have a ... delicate position in the wizarding world and must be careful about with whom I am seen."

Hermiones heart sank at his words, she knew she was the complication. Since she'd found out about her magic she'd had a secret fear about being muggle born, but in a house full of half bloods, it wasn't something she felt she could talk about.

"You're embarrassed of me aren't you?" It slipped out as a painful whisper, she hadn't meant to say it but now it was out in the open she had to ask "Does being muggle born matter so much?"

Snape knew his blank facade was starting to drop at the very idea of him being embarrassed by her but the second question was like a physical blow that had him recoiling back to the moment when Lily had asked almost the same thing all those years ago. Just like then he hesitated, not having the right words to explain the reality of it all. But as always Bella, his rock, was there.

"Oh sweetheart that's not what your uncle meant at all. You have to remember he's a very private person but also he's a teacher in the only wizarding school in the country. Almost all magical families will know who he is. Bearing in mind not many people even know that he has a wife the gossip would go into overdrive if he turns up with two children as well. Its also for you, it won't be that long before you start at Hogwarts and it will be ... easier for you to settle in if your class mates don't know who your uncle is."

There was silence for a few moments while Harry and Hermione thought about what had been said.

Harry just accepted what he was told but as usual Hermione had to question everything and something felt ... off and they hadn't answered her question about being muggleborn. "But I thought we stayed at the Castle one night a week, people are going to see us there?"

Bella risked a quick glance at her husband before trying to answer as best she could "You won't really be seen, you'll floo straight into Severus's quarters, have dinner there before going to bed and I meet you for breakfast before we floo back. And when we visit at the weekend we only go when its not a Hogsmeade trip for the students."

Snape could practically see Hermiones brain ticking over. And just like the time she questioned their relationship he felt he had no choice but to be honest. Within reason.

"They should know the truth Bell."

He only ever shortened her name when he really wanted her attention, a way of privately expressing the seriousness of things while still appearing casual to anyone else listening. As three pairs of eyes turned towards him Snape desperately hoped he was doing the right thing.

"Harrys current whereabouts are a secret. Only a select few uncorruptable people along with a couple of high ranking government officials who are restricted by oaths made using strong magic know he lives at Prince Manor."

"So its my fault then." Interrupted Harry sadly.

Snape incapable of offering the hurt boy the same emotional response that his wife had earlier offered Hermione tried to comfort him with hard facts. "Life is rarely that simple or black and white Harry." But he did give him a reassuring, albeit, brief pat on the leg. "Your mothers blood provides you with protection but it will not prevent information about you or your whereabouts reaching the wrong ears. That being said it is I that am the real issue. What is said here today will not be discussed again, understand?" He waited for the silent nods before continuing. "During the war I worked as a spy for the Headmaster. I acted as if I was on the side of the dark lord to gain information. What Bella said earlier was true many magical families know who I am but not just because I am a teacher but because they believe I got away with crimes, my position as a spy is still a secret. Many witches and wizards mistrust me because of this and it is only through the Headmasters protection that I remain safe. There may be a time when I am required to serve again in some capacity and so it would be easier if my relationship with Harry is not public knowledge."

He paused allowing them to think about the information he had just provided. He hoped he would never have to be truly honest about his service with the dark lord but he would cross that bridge when he came to it. He expected the first question, as always, to come from Hermione so he was surprised to hear Harrys hesitant voice.

"You mean the bad wizard that killed my mummy and daddy?" His hand unconsciously moving to his scar

"Yes Harry." He waited patiently for the next question but Harry just continued to touch his scar, a distant look on his face.

"You think he's going to come back don't you?" Hermione asked astutely. She sounded brave but Snape recognised the scared little girl behind her words.

But to lie never occurred to him. "Yes, a small number of us believe he is not finished and will return someday."

"For me?" It came out as a whisper.

"That would be one reason." He did not wish to panic the boy but he did need to prepare him for the future. "But there are many other reasons, last time he did not finish his work, his grand plan to enslave muggles. But it is not your concern now, when the time comes I will tell you what you need to know."

Harry understood what he was being told and while a small part of him desperately needed to know more the bigger part just wanted to forget. He nodded his acceptance and dropped his hand from worrying his scar.

Snape could still feel Hermione bristling over her unanswered question and just like Harry she deserved the truth. Within reason.

"Hermione you are muggle born and even though you are now part of mine and Bellas family that biological fact does not change and never can. It is something that can be easily tested by magic, a test that can not be fooled or tampered with. In todays society being muggle born is not an issue, however, behind closed doors, in certain circles, it is a different story. Pureblood mania still exists especially in some of the older wizarding families." There was no point sugar coating the truth but he also wasn't going to mention that his own House harboured the majority of the guilty party. "You are protected here both by Bella and I but also by Lily ..." He paused slightly over the name ".. Potters sacrifice, while you and Harry call the same residence 'home' her protection covers you also."

"So we're both safe here?"

"Here and Hogwarts. The headmaster is the only wizard the dark lord ever feared."

Harry just nodded, he didn't understand all that his Godfather explained, not that there was anything new in that, but he was pleased to know his mums death protected his new family as well.

Hermione gave a watery half smile. She understood what she'd been told and even though she knew it wasn't the whole truth she appreciated his honesty especially after she'd argued with him over keeping things from Harry earlier in the week. "Its ok, I don't mind not going to Diagon Alley now you've explained it all."

While Snape appreciated the sentiment he knew in reality they couldn't bury themselves away at Prince Manor.

"Miss Granger I do not say things I do not mean and I believe I started out this conversation by announcing a visit tomorrow."

He sounded extremely stern but the two children just started to grin at him.

"But how?" Asked Harry, glad that they'd moved onto a less upsetting conversation "if its not a good idea for people to see us together?"

"That's the beauty of magic Harry." Answered a delighted Bella "Your uncles got a potion that changes the way he looks but if we take a different one he'll still look the same to us."

"Wicked!" Harry exclaimed.

Snape tried to hide his shudder at Harrys choice of word and when he saw Hermiones eyes start to sparkle at the idea of new magical knowledge he quickly excused himself before she could bombard him with questions about polyjuice potion.

There was a mixed feeling of anticipation and concern for Harry and Hermione as Bella passed her husband the vial of polyjuice potion. Fascinated they watched as the thick liquid changed to a pale blue colour as a single hair was added to it. With a slight grimace Snape swallowed the mixture and waited for the uncomfortable sensation to finish. He could hear the exclamations from the children as his face bubbled and all of his features altered to mirror those of the annonymous muggle donor whose hair Bella had collected for this very purpose.

Snape didn't need to look in a mirror to know that the reflection that would have stared back at him would be as far removed from his own appearance as was humanly possible. The hair that had been added to the polyjuice potion was fair and Snape imagined his wife had selected the type of man in looks that people would expect her to be married to. Something that, if he analysed his feelings too deeply, he had to admit discomforted him a little. Shaking his head slightly to physically rid himself the uncomfortable thoughts he plucked three small vials of light green liquid from his robes, a potion of his own invention, and passed them out to Bella and the children, idly noticing the unnaturally tanned skin on his magically altered hand. He covertly watched the children hesitate before drinking, Harry and by extension of their relationship Hermione would need to show caution around previously unexperienced magic in the future, and was relieved to see them only raise the vial to their lips after seeing Bella swallow hers. He uninterestedly fastened a Slytherin green travelling cloak around his shoulders while waiting for the potion to take effect. It was a strange sensation, not feeling his own longer grease prone hair falling around his face as he bent to fasten the silver clasp. He knew from the childrens collective gasp the exact moment the magical mask had been stripped away and they could now see his own austere identity once again.

At his wife's audible 'tut' he slowly looked up, knowing very well it would be directed at him.

"Severus what is the point of changing your features when you're wearing your own clothes. That ..." She pointed to his outfit and waved her finger comically "is as unique as your own face. Wear that and you may as well wear a sign round your neck telling everyone 'I'm Severus Snape in disguise'. Now let's see..." For someone who usually struggled to locate her wand Bella had it in her hand almost instantaneously and with a mischievous glint in her eye she looked him up and down.

Snape knew this didn't bode well for him but before he could voice his protest Bella had waved her wand and the incantation found its target. Harry and Hermiones pathetic attempt to stiffle their giggles told him all he needed to know. The potion, while allowing them to see his true self was only designed to work against the polyjuice magic and would have no effect on whatever frivolous outfit his wife had tranfigured his trademark black clothes into. He knew he must look ridiculous and against his better judgement he stepped out of the kitchen into the hall and viewed himself in the ornante full length mirror hanging there.

The reflection that glared back disapprovingly at him came from what he understood people considered a classically handsome face, the deep blue eyes studied the rest of his appearance. He could fully understand the reasons for the childrens giggles, his hair was now blonde and expertly styled and while he reluctantly had to admit that the royal blue travelling coat and matching cravat teamed with a dove grey suit was perfect for the man whose face he wore it must look completely ridiculous on his own severe appearance.

He saws his wifes reflection join his borrowed one as she stood beside him fastening her own amber coloured travelling cloak around her shoulders.

"I look absurd. I look like that idiot Lockhart whose been writing all those inane books recently " His own tones instantly recognisable.

"You look very dashing Mr Jefferson Prince." She smiled at his confused reflection "You need a name and its not as if anyone would ever associate Severus Snape with my fathers first name and a wizarding family who for all intense and purpose died out years ago. Try and change your voice a little." She tenderly picked some invisible lint from his cloak. "Let's go I don't think we can hold the children back much longer."

As they re-entered the kitchen they found Harry and Hermione whispering furiously. The 'You ask him. No you ask him' conversation stopped instantly making Snape long for the days at Hogwarts where he could always silence a complete room with his mere presence.

"Well one of you needs to ask." He pressed "I would like to leave at some point today, the sooner we go the sooner we can return." He watched as Harry sneakily nudged Hermione forward.

Looking a little red Hermione glared back at her brother before sighing "Fine. We were just thinking ... What we should call you?" She asked primly

Snape had to admit it was an intelligent question. He thought for a moment, his wifes choice was a mouthful and would probably be difficult for them to remember "I expect it would be best to keep with what we know. Just uncle would be acceptable." Without waiting for a response he started towards the lounge.

He stopped by the fireplace and waited for the others to join him before stooping a little unsteadily, the unfamiliar body taking a while to get used to, and collecting an ornate metal jar from the hearth. "We will be travelling by floo today, now this isn't as easy as people sometimes think. You have to ..." And he proceeded to explain in great detail the method and dangers of floo travel.

When even Hermiones eyes started to glaze over Bella decided to interupt her husbands lecture. "Well I think that's enough with the theory. Hermione you'll be travelling with me, Harry you follow with your uncle afterwards." She lightly kissed her husbands gaping mouth while scooping a pinch of floo powder and then offered her hand to Hermione before stepping into the fireplace and announcing their destination.

They left the public fireplace and while they waited for the others to arrive Bella used her wand to remove the soot from their clothes. Hermione was busy looking around at the bustling streets, so different and alive compared to the last time they'd been there, when Harry and Uncle Severus appeared.

Harry hadn't had a very good journey, there were still times when his Godfather made him nervous and this had been one of them. Even though the hand he'd placed at the base of Harrys neck had not hurt and he'd not been rough when he steered him towards the fireplace it didn't stop the flashback to Uncle Vernon painfully shoving him into the cupboard under the stairs. As soon as he saw Diagon Alley his instinct had been to wrench himself away from the adult hand that held him but this in turn caused him to stumble over the hearth and break his glasses. Quickly looking around he saw Aunty Bella coming towards him, wand drawn and his Uncle was right behind him. For a moment he panicked then he saw Hermiones beaming face heading straight for him.

"Oh Harry isn't it amazing." The happiness in her voice was infectious and he found himself grinning back at her. She helped him to his feet and by the time the adults had joined them Harry felt a little silly at how he could possibly mix his godparents up with his relatives.

In a matter of seconds Bella had his glasses magically fixed, his clothes cleaned and his hair flattened to hide his scar while they were all enthusiastically discussing where they wanted to go first.

Not so long ago Snape would of insisted on everything being done according to his own itinerary and timescale. But as seemed to be happening more and more recently he ended up agreeably falling in line with what the others wanted. Which is how they found themselves wandering aimlessly through the packed cobbled streets, Bella looking on indulgently as the children looked in awe through the many varied shop windows.

It took Snape a while to get used to the freedom of walking around unrecognised. The novelty of not being eyed suspiciously or glared at was so liberating that he somehow found himself snaking his hand into his wifes as they strolled behind the excitable children. He expected they looked like an average wizarding family spending the day together and for the briefest moment Snape wondered how different his life may of turned out if his own childhood had been more like this. Would he of even considered uttering that despicable word if his fathers hatred of his magic hadn't made him despise his son. If his early life had been more like Potters would Lily have seen him as more than just a friend. But to consider such thoughts for even a moment only diminished his commitment to Bella, a woman whose vow, trust and support he valued above all else. What had gone before could not be undone lifes choices made a permanent imprint on ones soul just as surely as the dark mark branded his foreman. Deciding that no good could come of such introspective thoughts he consigned them away in one of the scarred boxes in the recesses of his mind. After all today was a day to appreciate, his anonymity affording him the luxury of letting down his guard. Within reason.

Although surprised by the previously unheard of demonstrative gesture Bella accepted the hand without question. As long as she could see that the face looking down on her and the pale potion stained hand was her husbands it didn't matter that the world saw something completely different. For a moment she allowed herself to indulgently fantasize that this was normality for her little family but to think this way was a disservice to Severus. Her husband had been nothing but honest and loyal. Her marriage may not be conventional but apart from the usual marital niggles and despite the secrecy and complications it brought she would not swap her black spy for the fashionable handsome man people saw her walking with. Severus may not be perfect but he was perfect for her.

After meandering for nearly an hour even the strangely liberated Snape found his tolerance start to wear thin. As they reached Madam Malkins Robes For All Occasions he tugged Bella into the shop and stood guard over the door while the children were measured for sets of robes, summer and winter travelling cloaks.

With his money bag considerably lighter Snape then led them into Flourish and Blotts where he allowed them free reign to investigate the childrens section. It came as no surprise that Harry headed straight to the fiction shelves to choose a couple of comics and story books while Hermione immediately began searching for spell books.

After leaving the book store they now strode with purpose following some form of mental list in Snapes head. First they visited Potages cauldren shop where they purchased a set of flat bottomed cauldren shaped saucepans with handles which were advertised as being impervious to incorrectly cast cookery spells.

Next they went to a shop called Scribbulus Everchanging Inks, the nearest thing to a stationers in the wizarding world, where they bought sheafs of fresh parchment, a large supply of red ink and practice quills for each of the children. Harry found himself mesmerised by the way a huge clear glass jar of the shops signature ink changed colour just by the power of your thoughts or mood while Hermione was drawn to a pile of brightly coloured homework planners that promised no assignment would ever be forgotten. While Snape, much to Hermiones disappointment, refused to buy the planner because of its obvious magical properties he did relent and buy two small ink bottles of the everchanging ink.

After a brief visit to Madam Primpernelles Beautifying Potions for another experimental shampoo which claimed to repel the greasiness caused by potion brewing Bella declared it time to stop for lunch.

On the way to Madam Padifoots cafe they stopped at the wizarding bank to withdraw some more galleons but as Bella headed up to the grand doors Snape held the children back.

"We must wait outside." He informed them quietly in a tone that broke no argument. "Follow me and I will explain."

It was so unusual that their Uncle ever volunteered any information they willing followed him to a quiet side alley. They watched, intrigued, as he drew his wand and cast a spell. "Now no one will be able to hear us. The bank is run by goblins, they are very observant creatures who could very easily identify Harry here, even with his scar covered, something I do not wish to happen. And my magically altered appearance is the other reason. Other than Hogwarts, and that is only because of the Headmasters presence, there is no safer place for your valuables because of the many spells and enchantments that protect it. I would not wish to test my disguise against their security measures lest they see me as a threat, only a desperate fool or madman would attempt to steal from Gringotts vaults. They are located hundreds of miles under the city protected by both wizarding and goblin magic." He continued to regale them with further interesting, by Snapes standard anyway, facts about the wizarding bank until Bella tracked them down.

They enjoyed a relaxed lunch sat out in the sunshine under brightly coloured striped umbrellas watching magical folk buy weird and wonderful things from the many stalls that were scattered along the cobbled streets. Even their uncles insistence that they eat a healthy meal did nothing to dampen their enthusiasm for the day. While they waited for their jacket potatoes to be delivered they entered into a lively conversation about the strange and bizarre sights they saw walking past and no one was more surprised than Snape when he started to indiscreetly drop his own tip bits of gossip about the odd past student or even his own former classmates who happened to walk past.

While they waited for the bill Snape pulled out a sheet of new parchment and with a slight smirk penned a quick letter in his unmistakeable spiky script before rolling it and stowing it within his robes.

With the bill settled Bella went to talk to the owner about the following weeks food order while Snape took the children next door to the apocrathy. Just as they were about to enter he started to issue the same dire threat he'd used in every shop they'd entered. "Remember you look with ..."

But before he could finish Harry and Hermione rolled their eyes at each other in a very Snape like fashion and continued for him in a sing song mantra "your eyes not you hands, touch anything and I'll use your fingers for potion ingredients! Yes we know." They finished exasperatedly.

Rather disgruntled Snape held the door open for them but as they passed by he took slight satisfaction in lightly cuffing each round the back of the head. The odour of rotting vegetables and gone off eggs made them gag but they soon forgot about the foul smell as they investigated, with their eyes only, the fascinating, bizarre and often disgusting contents of barrels, jars and tubs. Dried herbs, feathers, claws, teeth and hair were tied in bundles and hung from the ceiling. After reading several of the labels on containers of slimy stuff identifying livers, hearts and spleens of dragons they decided to drift over to the counter where their Uncle was involved in an indepth conversation with the old man behind the counter. They heard him finish giving a list of strange ingredients which a self writing quill was quickly scribbling on a parchment resting on the wooden counter. The Apothecary practically rubbed his hands together with glee as the quill totalled the list.

"That will be one hundred and fifty galleons please, can I enquire how you wish to pay Mr Prince."

Snape smirked slightly he could hear Hermione behind him whispering to Harry that he'd just spend about seven hundred and fifty muggle pounds. He reached his hand into his robes and took a little pleasure as the proprietor flinched momentarily, appearing to expect a wand to be drawn on him. There was a noticeable sigh of relief when Snape pulled out a roll of parchment instead.

"I assume you are familiar with the name of my current research partner, Professor Severus Snape?" Snape paused for a moment allowing the man to process his shock that he didn't even attempt to hide. He was taking a perverse pleasure out of the owners predicament, after all he had just tried to grossly overcharge for the order.

"Of ... Of course, the Professor is a regular customer." He stammered "I didn't realise he ever worked with others."

"I understand." Snape responded magnanimously "He doesn't seem the type does he." He waited for the predictable nervous half laugh. "I have a letter here from the Professor with instructions to take the galleons from his vault and information regarding the location of the delivery." He passed the parchment over and waited a moment for the scroll to be read "I assume everything is in order?"

"Certainly, certainly. You can assure Professor Snape I will follow his instructions to the letter and please let him know his usual discount will apply." The man practically bowed as he desperately tried to undo his previous blunder, Snape was a fearsome man which combined with his unknown loyalties made for a potentially dangerous combination.

"I shall be sure to let him know. Come children let us find you Aunt." Jefferson Prince swept out of the shop, cloak billowing in a way that would make Severus Snape proud and as expected Harry and Hermione followed dutifully behind.

Bella was waiting for them outside, a slightly concerned look on her face.

"Did you manage to get over the problem of payment and delivery?"

"Obviously." He answered in a very Snape like drawl and started to tell her all that had happened while the children enjoyed breathing fresh air again.

They walked at a more leisurely pace again now as Snapes mental shopping list seemed to be complete. They passed by Quality Quidditch Supplys and this time Harry could get close enough to the window to admire the latest broom which floated in mid air.

His Godfather came to stand by his side after a few minutes "Come on Harry, they'll be plenty of time for broomstick gazing when you're old enough to choose one of your own." And with a hand on his shoulder he steered him away from the enticing window display.

It took a few seconds for it to sink in but then he turned excitedly "You mean I can have a broom of my own?"

"Learn to ride properly and then yes in your second year at Hogwarts you are allowed to take a broom. Then I believe it will be an appropriate purchase."

Even though it was years away Harry had a new spring in his step and an even wider grin as he joined his Aunty.

Not at all interested in Quidditch or brooms Hermione had instead drifted over to Ollivanders Wand Makers and was looking longingly at the single wand lying on a dusty purple cushion in the window, it seemed hard to imagine that only a couple of months ago she had no idea she was a witch or that any of this world existed yet now she was imagining owning her own wand. Again Snape pulled his charge away with the promise of being able to have their own when the time was suitable.

While Snape left them briefly to investigate one of his older Slytherins he'd spotted skulking around the entrance to Knockturn Alley Bella took advantage of his absence to let the children investigate Gambol and Japes joke shop before taking them into Sugarplums sweet shop to buy a selection of wizarding confectionary.

Snape tracked them down in Eeylops Owl Emporium where Harry was talking gently to a snowy owlet with huge yellow eyes in a small cage while Bella had a quiet conversation with the witch behind the counter. Once again he stood guard over his Godson as he allowed the baby owl to nibble his fingers affectionately through the bars while Bella and Hermione popped into the Magical Menagerie to get cat treats for Midnight.

It was with great reluctance and the promise of an ice cream sundae before they headed home that Harry allowed himself to be coaxed out of the shop.

He said an almost tearful goodbye to the beautiful bird and promised to come back soon. He didn't know why he liked her so much but always looked like she understood him as he talked to her and he dreaded going back incase she'd been sold. With one last look back he followed his Godfather back outside into the sunshine.

But he was soon distracted by the array of flavours available in Florean Fortescues Ice Cream Parlour. While Harry had enjoyed bowls of ice cream since living with the Snapes he'd never experienced anything like the huge sundaes shown in the ice cream parlours menu.

Bella had expected Harry to be overwhelmed by the choice available but she was a little surprised by Hermiones reaction, her eyes were as big as saucers and she took even longer to decide what she wanted than Harry had. But all became clear when, after eating her first spoonful, Hermione announced that it was so much nicer than the sugar free stuff her parents had always bought. It was at moments like this that Bella almost felt as heart sorry for her daughter as she did her son. While Hermione had come from a loving family, in some ways she'd missed out on things just like Harry had. Having older, insular parents had made her a combination of young for her age but with an old head on her shoulders.

Unusually for Hermione she ate at speed and despite being admonished by Snape to slow down she was the first to finish.

"May I leave the table, I need the toilet?" Her voice was as polite as usual but Bella noticed a slight tremble.

"Of course, do you want me to come with you sweetheart."

As Hermione stood and shook her head Bella saw tears glistening in her eyes. She imagined she knew what had caused the sadness, with that one innocent throw away comment she felt like she'd betrayed her parents memory. She waited until Harry had finished his sundae and Snape his coffee before suggesting they head home through the floo with their shopping. After a furious whispered conversation during which Bella pulled her wand to prove it was at hand Snape reluctantly allowed himself to be convinced to leave with Harry but not before extracting her promise that she would not be more than half an hour behind.

Bella opened the toilet door cautiously, unlike Harry she wasn't yet completely sure about Hermiones emotional reaction to certain things. As she walked in the little girl was just emerging from the only occupied cubicle sniffing quietly and blowing her nose, her face red from crying.

"Hi sweetheart." Greeted Bella casually. She was pleased to get a slight smile in response. "I've sent your Uncle and Harry home."

They stood in silence for a moment as Hermione washed her hands. "Is there anything you want to talk about lovely?"

Bella used the mirror over the sinks to watch as Hermione caught her bottom lip between her teeth and shook her bushy head. "Ok, we'll just head ..." But before she could finish her suggestion that they floo home brown eyes sought out her own hazel ones in the reflection.

"Do you think my mummy and daddy would have liked coming here?" It was said in a rush, almost as if she was scared of the thought.

Bella crouched down to her level and turned the tearful girl towards her. "I think your parents would of loved to go on this journey with you and really they still are in here" she touched her palm to Hermiones heart "and up here." And then a finger to her temple.

Hermione gave a couple of small sobs before throwing herself at Aunty Bella. With her arms wrapped round her and her face buried in the side of her neck. "If I can't do this with them then I'm glad I can do it with you and Uncle ..." She paused for a second then whispered "Severus."

"I'm glad too. Now talking of your Uncle, I think we ought to head home. I promised him we'd only be half an hour behind, Merlin knows what he'd do if we were late."

Making silly suggestions and giggling they walked hand in hand back to the public floo point.

Later that afternoon Harry was just about to head down the stairs when he heard his Godfathers droll voice,

"Who would have thought two little children could cost so much. Do they really need all these things?"

Harry stopped in his tracks and sank down on one of the top steps just out of sight of the adults. He knew he shouldn't listen in to other peoples conversations but he'd learnt along time ago not to draw attention to himself when adults were discussing him especially when it came to money, his relatives had constantly moaned about how much he cost them and Uncle Vernon would take his feelings out on him with his fists. So Harry was stuck, he couldn't go into the kitchen and he couldn't risk them hearing him going back upstairs.

He tried so hard not to listen as he heard Aunty Bella rummage through the carrier bags that held their purchases from Diagon Alley but her musical laugh floated up the stairs towards him drawing him into the conversation like a moth to a flame. He thought back on the day they'd spent together and how many things they'd bought. Harry didn't know how he could have been so stupid he'd gotten carried away with the day and let down his guard, he cringed as he remembered how he'd pestered for a comic and how he'd asked for extra sauce on his ice cream. He couldn't believe he'd forgotten, it didn't matter that Hermione asked for things and got them, he knew better, nice things were not for freaks. Harry bought his knees up to his chest and dropped his head on them in shame.

Unaware of the despair they were causing as they talked Bella playfully pushed her husband and joked,

"Well I guess as we can't give them back I'll just have to get more customers and you could always beg Dumbledore for a raise."

"I think we can safely say a pay rise is out of the question so the pressures on you to keep them in the life of luxury!"

But Bella wasn't listening to him. Instead her attention was focused on Hermiones homework diary she'd found on the table. She passed it to her husband open at the photo of all four of them taken during the picnic. The children and Bella all looked relaxed and smiled into the camera and then there was Snape on the end hovering like a big black rain cloud.

"Would it kill you to smile just once."

Snape glanced quickly at the picture before passing it back, "It might, better not to test the theory."

"You do realise that one day we are going have to give both the children away and it would be nice if you could look happy about it." She was remembering her own wedding pictures and the bland expression on the grooms face, she wanted more for Harry and Hermione. Bella was sure she heard him mutter about more expense as he followed her through into the lounge, neither of them aware that their teasing conversation had caused a little boys heart to shatter into a million pieces.

Abruptly Harry reached a decision, crying had never solved anything before so he angrily scrubbed at his eyes with the back of his hand before creeping down the stairs and out into the back garden before his Godfather or Aunty could see him. He stood on the porch for a while and came up with a plan, if he didn't eat very much and didn't ask for anything new or even accept when they offered maybe they would keep him a bit longer. He wondered if he should tell Hermione as they'd talked about giving them both away, it was only fair she should be given the chance to make a difference and she needed the home more than he did if only one of them could stay it should be her, Harry had relatives that he could go back to Hermione didn't.

He watched for a few moments, she was just where he'd left her, sitting on the grass with another book in her hand. She felt him looking at her and waved before returning to her story.

Now that he'd been seen Harry had no choice but to go and join her, he knew he had to tell her the truth it was only fair.

As Harry flopped down on the lawn next to her Hermione noticed two things he didn't have the jumper he'd gone inside to get and his eyes were red from crying. He'd only been gone a few minutes, not enough time to get into the sort of trouble that caused tears. Using the pages of the book as cover she watched him for a while, he looked dejected and was distractedly pulling at the blades of grass infront of him. She was about to give in and ask what was wrong when she heard him mumble something. Showing a lot more maturity than her young years she set aside her book and moved to sit cross legged facing Harry and in a gesture she'd learned from watching Aunty Bella she raised Harrys face gently with her small hand so that he had to look at her.

"I'm sorry Harry I didn't hear what you said."

Harry looked into her brown eyes and hoped he was right in trusting her with what he'd heard.

"'Mione, were your parents rich?" He thought that if they were then their money would at least mean she could stay.

She was a little unsure where the conversation was going but she'd soon come to realise that when Harry had something important on his mind that he started talking about it with a seemingly random question and eventually all became clearer. As always when asked a question she took a moment to think about it seriously before answering.

"It don't think you'd call them rich but we had a nice house, not as big as here but it was a lot nicer than some of the people I went to school with. They had their own business and were always busy. They each had a new car and we went on holiday. I never heard my mum and dad talk about money, I think we were what they call 'comfortable'." She watched Harrys face as she talked and was surprised that what she'd told him seemed to make him even more sad. So she took a deep breath and asked the all important question that would move things along.

"Why?"

Everything Harry had heard while he sat on the stairs and all he'd thought about since came out in a jumble of words and emotion.

Hermione did he best to put on a reassuring expression.

"Well I think you're wrong Harry, you've misunderstood before when you've heard things. They could have been talking about anything." She answered in a decisive matter.

"Like what?" Harry challenged feeling a little bit hurt that she didn't believe him.

And that was her problem, she didn't know, not something she ever liked to admit to. The logical part of her knew that they wouldn't have agreed to take them in if they couldn't afford it. Neither of the Snapes were irresponsible, they'd made a commitment to both of them. But then the little girl in her was scared about what Harry had heard, if it was true she didn't know if she could bear to loose another home and family. But she did know that teachers in the muggle world were always striking and protesting about pay so maybe it was the same here and the house was really big and must cost a lot to run. She shook herself impatiently and folded her arms defiantly.

"No I won't believe it. I don't know what they were talking about but it isn't what you think. I don't want to talk about it anymore." She moved back to her original position at his side and picked up her book again.

Harry tried several times to talk to her again but she steadfastly refused to answer him, her mouth was set in a stubborn line and it was only when she threatened to go and ask the adults what they'd been talking about that Harry gave in and fell into a sulky silence. He found it was easier to stay angry with Hermione than it was to think about going back to his relatives.

By the time Bella called them in for dinner Harry had a large pile of shredded grass in front of him and Hermione had turned the pages of her book so aggressively that she'd managed to rip one. Both continued to ignore the other as they made their way into the kitchen and set the table in stoney silence.

Bella and Snape both instantly picked up on the strained atmosphere but by silent agreement they didn't interfere. They'd had a busy day and if the children had gotten into a disagreement because they were tired the adults were content to let them sort it out themselves unless things got out of hand. Conversation was difficult and Snape retreated behind his Hogwarts mask of indifference. Bella noticed Harry playing with his food instead of eating so she placed a steadying hand over the restless fingers that help his fork and gently asked him to eat his food. She was concerned when he flinched from her touch and gave her a wounded look.

Determined to be cheerful Bella searched around for a topic of conversation that would brighten the childrens moods.

"Harry we need to start making plans for your birthday soon do you know what you'd like to do." At his uninterested shrug she gave him some options "You could have a party here with your friends." She ignored her husbands not so subtle shudder "Or we can take a few of your friends out somewhere for the day." When he still showed no interest she decided not to push it any further, she'd planted the seed he'd let her know when he was ready. "What about ideas for presents? You must have some of those."

It was more than Harry could bear, he was really hungry and Aunty Bella's food was always so good but he knew he couldn't eat it. It wasn't like this was the first time he'd gone without meals but there was a world of difference between not being allowed food and stopping yourself from eating what was put in front of you. As if not eating wasn't bad enough then they had to start talking about his birthday. He'd never had one before and now they were trying to tempt him by talking about parties and presents but he knew those things weren't for freaks. He couldn't help the angry tears that started to fill his eyes. In a desperate need to escape the questions and smell of food he swept his plate onto the floor, "Freaks don't have birthdays." He shouted as he scrambled from the table his fork still clenched in his fist as he ran up the stairs and slammed his bedroom door shut.

Bella had half risen from the table to chase after him when Snape firmly took her hand. "Sit down."

"But Harry ... He normally only acts like this when something from his past is bothering him. You heard what he said about freaks."

"Give him some space to calm down." While Bella had been watching Harry have his tantrum Snape had focused his attention on Hermione and he found her reaction to her brothers behaviour very significant. He looked her sternly in the eye, "I believe Miss Granger may be able to shed some light on what has just happened and once we have the facts the situation may be resolved a lot easier."

Bella sat back down and took Hermiones hand in hers. "Honey do you know why he's so upset?"

Hermione felt herself start to silently cry, she knew she had to tell the truth, Uncle Severus would know if she wasn't and she knew how he felt about lying but if she did tell them then everything Harry had said might become real.

"Harry heard you talking this afternoon about how expensive we were and how you would have to give us away one day. He asked if my mum and dad were rich, he thought if they were then you could afford to keep me and he said that if he didn't eat you might be able to keep him a bit longer before sending him back." The entire explanation was given to Aunty Bellas hand as she looked down at the table but as she choked out her final words she lifted her tear stained face to look at Uncle Severus "I told him he was being silly but he wouldn't believe me." Her eyes were begging for him to say she was right.

Snape didn't need to access her mind to know her heart was breaking. Even as Bella pulled Hermione onto her lap wrapping her in a protective embrace the little girls eyes didn't waver from his, desperate for him to make everything right.

How could one casual conversation cause so much pain, there was no doubt that he recognised their conversation from earlier and he could truly understand Harrys reaction, now in his own mind he could see how the comments could have been misconstrued. But the thing that astounded him the most was Hermiones faith in him, he had no idea how he had come to earn it but it was this that he held onto.

"The words Harry said he heard were true but the meaning wasn't." Her heard Hermione hold her breath and hope shone from her tear filled eyes.

"Have you ever been to a muggle wedding?" She nodded her head against Aunty Bellas chest not sure what weddings had to do with anything, it was just like talking to Harry sometimes. "Well part of the service involves the father of the bride 'giving away' his daughter to the groom." Snape was gratified when she gave a gasp of understanding. "In wizarding weddings both the bride and groom are given away by the father figure."

Things started to make sense now and she knew she'd been right to believe in her Aunt and Uncle. "So that's why Aunty Bella wanted you to be happy about it."

"She'd just shown me a photograph we took at the picnic and was complaining that I wasn't smiling. It was just a passing comment which Harrys insecurities turned into something much bigger."

For a moment she felt better then she remembered what Harry had said about money. "But we're still too expensive, Harry can't have heard that wrong."

Snape couldn't help himself, he let out a quiet snigger before Bellas frown had him re-arranging his face back into its usual blank facade.

"Sweetheart you should know by now your Uncle is only truly happy when he's complaining. He's buried away at school most of the year, he doesn't need to buy food or pay bills, I buy his clothes, even his potions supplies are bought by Hogwarts. Today was a bit of a reality check for him that's all." Hermione risked a quick glance at her Uncle and saw his eyebrow raising at his wifes words, when she caught his eye he managed a quick twitch of the lips something she'd come to realise was his attempt at a reassuring smile.

"I believe we should all sit down later and Bella and I will explain some things to you both about money that should put your minds at rest. Now Bella will cast a reheating charm on your food so you can finish your meal while we talk to Harry."

Now that Hermione seemed content with their explanation they needed to approach Harry, something Snape anticipated wouldn't be quite so straightforward. Essentially Hermione had no reason to doubt the words of an adult she saw as a parental figure unfortunately the same could not be said for Harry, whose past experiences told him that no adult was to be trusted and as sad as it was they may not ever be able to completely change his way of thinking.

Deep down Hermione recognised that Harry seemed to trust her more than the adults over certain things and she knew this afternoon she may have broken it a little. "Could I come with you? I don't want to stay by myself and he might believe you a bit quicker if he knows I do."

Harrys angry tears had stopped a while back and now he was just miserable. He'd refused to take comfort from his dragon, his relatives would never let him have something so magical so it was better to forget about him now. He'd squashed himself into the corner of the room trying to make himself as small as possible. He heard them coming up the stairs and knew they were on there way to his room. He couldn't retreat any more so he just held his breath and hoped they wouldn't notice him. As plans went he knew it was pretty lame and he slowly released his breath as he saw a pair of polished black boots come to stand in front of him.

It took a lot of explaining, a calming draught, more tears, hugs and promises before Harry would fully accept what they were telling him. It was Hermione that finally managed to convince him to listen to what they were saying and sat with him holding his hand while they repeated everything they'd already told her downstairs.

Now that Harrys emotions were once again under control Snape reached a difficult decision, he knew he couldn't allow Harrys behaviour to go unchallenged regardless of the reasons behind it. Boundaries and consistency were ultimately what made children feel safe and secure besides Harry had to learn to control his anger and Snape was not going to tolerate tantrums in his house. He'd let the incident with the chocolate cake slide a few weeks before and he could see know that, that had been a mistake.

"Bella please take Hermione back downstairs, Harry and I need to discuss his behaviour and then we will join you for dinner before we talk."

Bella left a little reluctantly, she knew her husband was right but that didn't mean she had to like it. Hermione realising what was about to happen having been on the receiving end of one of Uncle Severus's discussions already went to protest that it wasn't fair but Bella had already pulled her from the room. "Don't interfere sweetheart Harry needs to know we still love him even when he's naughty and you'd of just been in the same position if you'd have said anything." As it didn't take a genius to work out what position she was talking about Hermione only glanced back once at Harrys now closed door before reluctantly going back downstairs.

Snape pulled out Harrys desk chair and sat while regarding the teary child that stood in front of him. At a time like this he wasn't going to insist that Harry look at him, anyway it was easier if he didn't have to see Lilys eyes. "Harry I understand that you were very upset today but that does not excuse your behaviour, someone could have been hurt by the plate and you disrespected the people in this house by shouting. You broke two main rules of this house and you know the consequences." He waited for the small nod and then directed Harry to the one free corner of his room. "I expect you to remain there for seven minutes to think about your behaviour."

Harry heard his godfather leave the room and seriously thought about what he'd done. He knew Uncle Sev would expect a proper answer before punishing him and if he was completely honest he didn't mind the corner time or the smacks. Now they'd explained things he knew he shouldn't of jumped to conclusions but instead just asked especially when Hermione really believed he was wrong. But he was a bit confused Uncle Sev hadn't mentioned his eavesdropping, may be it was part of some test, Harry decided to remind his godfather about it when he returned even if it meant extra smacks. Now that he'd done everything he'd been asked Harry began to get restless, the waiting was the worst part. While the smacks didn't hurt anywhere near as much as the beatings Uncle Vernon gave out the squirmy feeling in his tummy was much worse.

It seemed like ages until he heard his bedroom door open again and his chair squeak as his godfather sat down in it again. "Harry please come here."

To Harry the walk from his corner to the chair in the middle of the room seemed to be over to quickly, it was one thing taking a beating without fuss but another thing entirely willingly walking to be spanked. All too soon he was stood in front of Uncle Sevs knee. Next came the question,

"Harry can you tell me why you are being punished?"

Knowing his godfather expected clear answers and proper words Harry thought carefully about what he was going to say. "I was upset and instead of talking to you or Aunty Bella I lost my temper, shouted and smashed a plate." Just as Snape was about to move on Harry surprised him by speaking again. "I also listened into a private conversation which is wrong and if I hadn't then none of this wouldn't happen." He added as an after thought. "If you need to give me more for that I don't mind."

Damn the brat, thought Snape, he'd somehow managed to make him feel guilty about punishing him at all. "Harry it wasn't a private conversation Bella and I were just talking, if you'd of come into the kitchen we wouldn't of stopped what we were saying." But Snape knew that the boy had raised the point because it was on his conscience and if left unchecked would only cause more trouble in the future. "However by not showing yourself and continuing to listen you did cause this problem. So because of this lapse in judgement an extra spank will be added to the seven for breaking the plate and shouting. Do you have anything you wish to say?"

"No Sir." Came the brave reply.

Snape guided Harry over his knee and gave a quick tap to show he was about to start. Seven spanks were given quickly and effectively on his short clad bottom with minimum fuss from Harry but when Snape landed the final stinging smack on the back of Harrys bare legs the little boy began to cry the earnest repentant tears of a thoroughly spanked child. Snape rubbed calming circles on his back until the tears subsided and Harry wriggled to be released. Once Harry was stood in front of him again Snape conjured a handkerchief and passed it to the sniffling boy.

"Hush child its all over, you are forgiven." He patted Harry on the shoulder as he returned the chair back to its rightful place. "I'll give you a couple of minutes to collect yourself and then I expect you to be seated at the table ready to eat a full meal." The stern look made Harrys heart leap with happiness its implication clear, they expected Harry to eat, they weren't getting rid of him.

As Snape turned to leave his Godson launched himself across the room and attached his arms around his waist in a bone crushing hug. He found himself awkwardly returning the hug and was rewarded with a green eyed look full of quiet calm.

"Thank you." Harry whispered quietly. He wasn't sure what he was saying it for but Snape knew. They'd given him what he needed even when he'd thought the worst of them, even if that was a spanking, it was a punishment finished with forgiveness.

"Two minutes Mr Potter." He reminded then Snape slipped silently from the room.

Harry ate his dinner with gusto even though his bum was sore and the backs of his legs were tingling. When cookies and warm milk appeared on the table he somehow managed to squeeze himself on his Godfathers knee which was a lot softer than the wooden kitchen chairs. He didn't really know why he wanted comfort from this rather unapproachable man especially as he was the reason for his bottoms discomfort but he felt safe there and was glad he was allowed to stay as they talked.

"Now I believe this afternoons events have raised some questions about money. I didn't realise that we would need to discuss this with you until you were much older, however I see now I was..." Snape hated to use the word wrong "...misguided." Yes, that was so much better.

"Firstly when both your parents died any money, belongings or property was held in trust for you until you reach adulthood. They both had homes which are being rented to others and the income from this is being added to your inheritance. The Granger dentist practice has a similar arrangement. You will both have plenty of money to live a comfortable life as adults." He could see Hermione about to speak, her hand was partially raised something he imagined would drive any of her teachers to distraction after a short time. He continued quickly before she could ask anything. "As for Bella and I, money will never be a problem. Bellas father was a multi millionaire in the muggle world she inherited the majority of his money and the profits from his many business ventures. Prince Manor is my family home and it came with a large fortune with which to support it. I work at Hogwarts because of my obligations to Headmaster Dumbledore not because of the salary, I also receive grants for potions research and publications of certain articles. Bella works because she enjoys it." Everything Snape said was very matter of fact, there was no pride or arrogance in his tone when he spoke about their finances." We do not and will not boast about what we have, it is a private matter and we expect you to keep it as such. That being said I do not expect you to consider this matter again. There are certain expenses, necessary and otherwise, that I did not realise came with children now that I understand better I will try to refrain from comment. You may ask for things regardless of the considered expense but be warned our answer will be final, I am sure by now you all know how I feel about whining." He saw Hermione nod in earnest, Bellas encouraging smile and felt Harrys head nod where it rested on his chest.

Snape had, had a tiring day and he didn't know about the rest of them but he was ready for some peace and quiet.

"Given todays events I believe an early bedtime is in order." He anticipated complaints and was amused to see Hermione biting her lip to stop herself from saying anything. He felt Harry nod again against his chest and imagined the tenderness in his bottom prevented him from protesting.

Within half an hour the children were in bed, Bella was busy in the study putting her final touches to her witch weekly column and Snape was enjoying the much needed solitude in his lab. For the first time in a long time he was desperate for the summer to end and the new Hogwarts term to begin where all he to worry about was being blown up and giving detentions or the occasional clip around the ear without any annoying feelings which might resemble guilt.