Chapter 11 - Interlude
November brought wild winds and plummeting temperatures that promised snow. However, the weather was not the only thing that had plummeted. Chris' mood had also sharply dropped.
For the first few days following the Halloween party he had been hanging out with his friends and staying in the Gryffindor dormitory, but then he suddenly sequestered himself away in his father's room.
Severus could not get a word out of his son as to what was wrong, and even his friends had no idea as to why his mood had changed.
By December he confided his concerns with Lucius. "I mean he's eating and drinking as normal, his schoolwork is the same as it ever is but he's just not his usual self. For a while now, we've been able to share many things with each other, but now he won't confide with me about anything. I fear he may do something drastic."
Lucius perused him thoughtfully. "I do not think he would do anything drastic, but yes, you should be concerned. Since he left the hospital wing I have only seen him for classes and even then he keeps his head down, not drawing attention to himself and just gets on with his work. Obviously, I restrict the practical work he does, just as you would with a pregnant witch."
"That's it," Severus snapped. "I do believe he's feeling some sort of resentment. He's had this pregnancy thrust upon him, and his body's going through all these unnatural changes, and what are we doing? Restricting him from all things that come naturally to him. I know it was all under orders from his healer, but once again it's putting him in the spotlight; the one thing he hated as Harry Potter."
Both men fell into silence as they contemplated the situation. What could they possibly do to help someone when this was such a unique situation.
Casting his eyes around the room, Lucius gaze fell on a picture by the fire. It was from last Christmas at the Lupin Wedding. "I think what we need, is someone who has been through a similar situation to talk with Chris, to share their experiences and to show that what he is going through will be worth it in the end."
Seeing where Lucius was looking, Severus pondered; "Do you think it will work?"
"Why ever not? I know Narcissa relied a lot on other witches who either were or had been pregnant. It probably will do the two of them good to get together anyway. I wasn't just thinking of Nymphadora by the way," Lucius added. "I'm sure Remus could offer his insight as well, after all his life choices are based on who, or should I say what, he is."
"Maybe you are right. I seem to remember Remus needed some sense knocking into him after he found out about Chris' parentage. Maybe he could do the same for Chris."