Author's note: All characters in this story (other than my own OC creations) are the property of JKR. I am simply borrowing her wonderful world. Updated 1/22/12
Chapter 21 – The One I Remember
She was no longer married to Severus Snape. That should have been enough of a shock for one day, but now her mind was reeling with the second bit of news. She was still married to the Dark Lord. How on earth could that be? She'd always thought that the marriage to Tom Riddle should have been invalid because Severus was still alive. But somehow Voldemort had convinced the ministry to annul her marriage to Severus, making her second marriage to the Dark Lord official.
"Isn't there anything I can do?" Andrea pleaded to the clerk at the Office of Marriages.
Mr. Peebles looked first at Russell and then Andrea as he sighed. "There is one possibility."
"Yes?" Russell asked as he started to smile, his natural optimism returning.
"If you have an overriding signature of at least one Wizengamot member and the Minister for Magic, then you wouldn't need your husband to sign. If you like, I can get the paperwork started, and then we can send the request in to be reviewed. That's the best I can do."
Mr. Peebles pushed the stack of forms toward Andrea and indicated the places requiring her signature. Before she was through, the clerk pointed to one last item on the form that needed to be completed. From the long list displayed before her, she had to choose the reason for the requested divorce. Pressing down hard with the quill, she put a thick black mark in the first box labeled 'Incompatibility.'
Russell patted Andrea's arm and gave her a big wink as he whispered in her ear, "Just think, love, in a few days we'll be in America with your friends and starting a whole new life. Come on, then, let's get going. We have lots of things to do yet." Lowering his voice, Russell whispered in Andrea's ear. "We better stay the night at my friends flat. We wouldn't want anyone to find us."
"Mr. Plover?" Hugh asked nervously, "Did I hear you say you were going to America? With Mrs. Snape? I mean Mrs. Riddle?"
"No!" Andrea interrupted. "No, just … please … don't tell anyone."
"Hugh, mate!" Russell pulled a few Galleons out of his pocket and slid them across the counter. "You can keep a secret for me, can't you? You see how it is."
"Gee, I don't know …" Mr. Peebles answered nervously.
"You can see how upset the little lady is. Come on now. What do you say?" Russell grinned a most winsome smile and gave the clerk a wink.
Hugh finally nodded, and as Andrea gathered up her copies of the documents, Russell gave Hugh a salute. "Thank you, my friend. You won't regret it." Before the clerk could change his mind, the couple had disappeared out the door.
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Earlier that morning, after reviewing Snape's express owl message, Dumbledore felt obligated to meet with the Ministry to inform them of Andrea's disappearance. Although he regretted having to share the information, it was obvious that, under these unusual circumstances, he did need their help. He also knew it was imperative that the perceived offspring of You-Know-Who not fall into the wrong hands, and despite his misgivings, he needed to make sure the ministry was warned of this potential crisis.
As a result, Kingsley Shacklebolt had been brought in to assist, and in an attempt to proactively aid in the search, he'd sent notices to all the Ministry department heads to keep a lookout for the woman.
Down in the Office of Marriages, Mr. Peebles stared at the coins Russell had left so generously on the counter. Almost as an afterthought, he scooped them up and stuffed them in his pocket. With the money secure, he picked up his quill to scribble out a memo. In less than five minutes, the note had found its way to the Kingsley's office, prompting an immediate meeting with the clerk.
"Mr. Peebles, are you sure it was Andrea Snape?" Kingsley asked, astounded at his good luck in finding her.
"Yes, of course! She'd done something with her hair, but the face was the same as the one on your notice. I even have her signature here. She just filed for divorce from her second husband. Some fellow named Tom Riddle." Hugh showed the documents to Kingsley. The Auror's heart skipped a beat, but his expression remained blank.
"And there's something else," Peebles continued. "One of your Aurors was with her – Russell Plover. Did you set that up?"
Kingsley frowned. Why was Russell with Andrea? With each passing minute, this was getting more and more interesting. Ignoring the man's question, a congratulatory smile returned to Kingsley's face as he turned back to the clerk and patted his back.
"Thank you, Hugh. You've been a great help. I'll let you know what happens. By the way, why don't you give me those divorce papers? I'll see what I can do to expedite them for the lady."
"Oh, thank you, sir," Hugh grinned, happy to have someone else take responsibility. "She seemed so concerned. If I may, sir, this whole affair is right strange."
"Don't worry, Hugh. Just leave it to me." Kingsley assured him and then excused himself to look for Dumbledore.
Breathing a sigh of relief, Hugh was glad he'd kept his promise to Russell. Even though the clerk had revealed some information to Kingsley, the Head Auror still had no knowledge of the couple's plan to flee the country.
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The third year students in the Potions master's classroom were not paying attention. A swarm of fruit flies buzzed around the rotting pomegranates, and the insects proved to be much more interesting to the fourth years than the brewing mixtures on their desks. The fruit needed to be especially ripe or the color change potion would simply turn everyone's eyes white, not the darkened color needed to shield them from the sun's rays. Unfortunately, the flies found the smelly mass exceedingly attractive.
As the clock slowly advanced, the unruly children attempted to zap the flies, enjoying a good game of target practice. Giggling merrily as the insects fell into their caldrons, they were quick to take advantage of this rare opportunity when Professor Snape's attention was directed elsewhere. Instead of monitoring his class, the Professor sat at his desk staring out of the high dungeon windows, his mind preoccupied as he scanned the horizon for an owl.
Severus had been forced to wait for Dumbledore's reply; there was little else he could do. Reluctantly he continued with his teaching schedule. If only he had a clue to his wife's whereabouts, he'd be gone from here. But at the moment, all he felt was his own inadequacies. All morning he had waited, and still there'd been no news.
By early afternoon, Snape was almost ready to go to the ministry himself and demand action, when he finally received the awaited owl message. A meeting had been arranged at the Leaky Cauldron with Dumbledore, Shacklebolt and the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, to discuss the available options and any potential risks to the public. It seemed that progress was finally moving forward.
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"Dumbledore, you know I'm holding you completely responsible for this," Cornelius grumbled irritably. "She was in your care, with no guards and no protection."
"You are overreacting, Cornelius," Dumbledore replied, trying his best to placate the Minister. "Severus was with her every minute, and as you know, Hogwarts has better protective measures than any other place on the globe!"
"You think Snape here is fit to be a guard? I still don't trust him," the Minister hissed loudly, not caring that Severus was standing within earshot.
The Potions master remained completely still. If it weren't for the tiny twitch of his lip and a slight narrowing of the eyes, he could almost have been a statue. Snape knew this was not the time to react, but it was taking all his willpower to control his temper.
"The Death Eaters are still trying to get at those babies. What if they succeed? What if … what if You-Know-Who is the father of those twins, and they truly are the 'Heirs of Slytherin'?" Cornelius demanded to know. "Our entire world could be in jeopardy!" At this point, the Minister glanced fearfully at Severus before taking a step closer to Dumbledore. Fudge's voice shook as he stated, "She should have been locked up in Azkaban."
That was the last straw. Snape could no longer control himself and took a step forward, a growl escaping from deep in his throat. Shacklebolt quickly placed his arm on Severus's shoulder in an attempt to warn him.
"Cornelius," Dumbledore replied, "you know the decision on the future of the Snapes' twins has not yet been decided. We have over two weeks before the committee delivers a decision. Until that decision is revealed, we must remain calm and think rationally."
Severus was furious. Never had he felt so powerless, but he knew he could not fight against these two. As hard as it was for him, he needed to trust Dumbledore and the power of the old wizard to manipulate Fudge.
"Minister," Kingsley said, trying to get the meeting back on the right track. "As I'm sure you'll agree, our main objective here is to get Andrea back, and I have some very interesting new evidence that can help."
Shacklebolt explained that they had an excellent description of Andrea's disguise and her companion. He also informed the group that just a few hours earlier, Kingsley had assigned a special team of Aurors to look for them.
"Mr. Shacklebolt, may I have the description of her companion?" Severus asked intensely, bracing himself for the bad news.
"Well," Kingsley hesitated. "Now, don't go jumping to conclusions, Professor—"
"I won't, as you say, jump to conclusions, if you'll just tell me what I need to know!" Snape's eyes widened slightly as he stared unblinkingly at Shacklebolt.
Snape, as well as Dumbledore and Fudge, looked expectantly at the Auror.
Clearing his throat, Kingsley replied, "Her companion is Russell Plover."
A flash of fury exploded on Severus's face. His hands were clenched in rage, but he wisely remained silent. Instead, he waited for Kingsley to offer his explanation, knowing it would be weak and useless.
"Oh, thank goodness!" Fudge sighed. "At least we have her guarded. How did you manage that Shacklebolt? Did you have her trailed? My, my, I am impressed—"
"Minister—" Kingsley tried to interrupt.
"No need to explain, my boy. So, that's that and all's well. When will she be back at Hogwarts? By this evening, I expect. Yes, why don't you report to me by tomorrow morning? I'll let you and Dumbledore sort through the details."
"Sir, I need to tell you," Shacklebolt said a bit more forcefully. "He's not under my orders!"
"What?" Fudge said slightly surprised. "He's acting on his own? Well, I'll make sure he gets a special medal for it. You just tell him to keep up the good work." Taking a glance at his watch, he became flustered. "Oh, my, just look at the time. I must get back to the office. Remember, Shacklebolt, I'll need my report, first thing tomorrow morning." With that, he stood up and Apparated away with a loud 'pop.'
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Closing the door to his friend's apartment, Russell glanced at the pile of trunks on the sitting room rug feeling a surge of excitement. They'd just finished moving their luggage into the temporarily vacant flat, and Russell couldn't help but be pleased at the success of his plans so far.
"So, how about we leave for America tomorrow?" he asked Andrea with a sparkle in his eye. "I think I can be ready by then. You're already packed, and I have just a few errands to be done by morning. It's best if we stay here no longer than necessary. It's too dangerous. I'm afraid they might track us here, especially if your husband is on to us. So, what do you say? Is it America then? "
"I suppose …" Andrea answered, her enthusiasm completely nonexistent.
"Just to be safe, how about we travel as Mr. and Mrs. Plover?" Russell grinned and casually took her hand, pulling her to the couch.
"Russell, I think I've had enough of being married for a while."
"But, it'd be just for your protection." His eyes pleaded as he gallantly kissed her hand. Then, as if he'd been married to her for years, he flopped down next to her on the couch and put his feet up on the table. "Ah, come on, love. Just say yes."
"How about if I just say no?" Andrea said angrily. "I'm serious, Russell. I do not want to marry you."
"But, you don't have to right away. We can just travel as husband and wife and get married when your divorce is final. Really. It makes perfect sense."
Andrea bit her lip, thinking about how Severus was most likely searching for her at this exact moment. "Okay, but only while we're traveling. And we can't use the name Plover either. Severus will lock onto that like a tracking beacon. Let's use Sutherland. That's my mother's maiden name."
"Fine with me," Russell agreed, reluctantly. He feared Snape would certainly latch onto that name, too. At this stage, however, Plover realized it was best not to argue. Instead, he tried to concentrate on the joys that were yet to be. For years, Russell had been saving his Galleons in hopes for a bright future. As it happened, his dealings in the wand trade had proved to be extremely lucrative. Now, with the resulting stash of money in his pockets, he had confidently made plans to open a wand shop in Wisconsin, and with Andrea by his side, he knew his dreams would surely come true.
Brimming with confidence, Russell grinned and answered, "Whatever you want, Mrs. Sutherland. Now, let's see. I have to stop at Gringotts before we go, but I think we can leave on the Public Portkey at noon tomorrow. Do you want to let any of your friends know you're coming?"
"No, I don't want them to worry." Andrea still didn't want to admit this was really happening. If she could avoid telling her friends, then maybe this giant step she was about to take might not become reality. Sadly, she knew she was just delaying the inevitable, but right now, she couldn't face the truth.
As she watched Russell pack, Andrea curled up on the couch and hugged her swollen stomach, feeling almost devoid of emotion. Last fall, when she thought she'd lost Severus, she had wished for death. But things were different now. She had her babies to live for. Absently, she looked at her engagement ring, the glass displaying a vivid glittering darkness, as black as Severus's eyes. She tugged at it to take it off, but for some reason, it wouldn't slip off her finger.
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Upstairs at the Leaky Cauldron, the meeting was about to end. What had begun as a useless shouting match had eventually produced a reasonably good search plan of the London area. But the stress was taking its toll on the three occupants, especially the Potions master. Severus was having a very hard time accepting the Ministry's view of Russell Plover's innocence in what he believed to be a kidnapping, along with Kingsley's desire to walk the political tightrope. Unfortunately, Dumbledore agreed with Shacklebolt.
Exhausted, Severus finally sat down after three hours of heated discussion. He held his head in his hands, a massive headache pounding in his temples. Dumbledore stared thoughtfully out the window as he stroked his long beard, his mouth working slowly on a sour lemon ball. The only one still standing was Shacklebolt. He stood over an immense parchment map covered with little green and red lines.
Kingsley had arranged for the detailed search to start early the next morning. The Auror team would go door to door to all the London wizarding homes, starting with the ones closest to the Ministry office. Severus and Kingsley would begin their search in Diagon Alley, keeping a close watch on the Public Portkey station on the west end. Dumbledore agreed to remain at the Leaky Cauldron and coordinate the team's efforts.
That evening, after running a few last minute errands in Diagon Alley, Russell and Andrea decided to finish their day at the Leaky Caldron for a light supper before heading back to their lodgings for the night. A private table was requested, and the owner gladly tucked them away in a back room after pocketing a large tip from Plover to ensure their privacy.
Directly overhead, Severus continued his discussion with Kingsley, finalizing the remaining details. "Where is Plover's flat on this stupid map? His place should have been searched first."
"Done," Kingsley replied patiently. "As soon as I heard he was involved, I sent a team to check it out. The place was empty and his trunks gone."
"Well, thanks for sharing," Snape replied sarcastically. "They could be anywhere by now. What makes you think they're even still in London?"
"We don't, but from what you've told us, their destination is probably America. So it seems pretty sure they'd come through here before leaving the country. We've got the public Portkey stations covered. They won't get through without us knowing."
Snape grunted pessimistically in response and stared tiredly at the mantelpiece, the pendulum clock indicating it was already half past seven.
Back in the private dining room, Andrea glanced at her watch, but as she focused on the small oval image, the timepiece began to reform before her eyes. It seemed that it was not a watch at all. Instead, there appeared a vision of a small pendulum clock on a mantelpiece. Blinking, she shook her head, and the vision faded. In its place, she felt a presence of someone familiar, and her skin began to tingle.
Trying to shrug off the strange feeling, she picked up her fork and began to pick at her food, but the powerful sensation inside her grew, filling her soul like a soothing melody. At first it felt wonderful, almost euphoric, but then, the heavy fear she had known over the last few days came rushing back. It seemed to smother her, forcing her heart to pound erratically, the sound of the wild heartbeats blasting against her eardrums. Her eyes wide with panic, Andrea slowly stood up.
"Russell! Russell, I have to get out of here! It's Severus. He must be here. Please, we have to go! NOW!"
"Okay, okay, don't get excited. We'll go."
Russell looked suspiciously around the room, trying to figure out why Andrea's reaction was so strong. Were they being followed? How did she know Snape was here? Was it just a coincidence that he would show up at the Leaky Cauldron? In any case, Russell wasn't going to take any chances. He threw some Galleons on the table to cover the bill, and then quickly guided Andrea away, fleeing out the door into Muggle London.
Above the private dining room, the planning session was just concluding. The final touches of tomorrow's search and rescue operation were finally in place, and the conversation had moved on to the Ministry and political strategies. As the three argued about the best way to handle Cornelius Fudge, Severus found he could no longer ignore the strange sensation building inside his soul. At first his hands had begun to tingle, and then his whole body swelled with energy, the stimulating presence immediately recognizable. Andrea was somewhere nearby. Although he had no proof, the recognition of her presence was undeniable.
Excusing himself, Severus stealthily moved into the hallway and down the steps to the dining room, making sure he remained unseen. Clinging to the shadows, he slid along the wall into the main lounge and searched the crowd for a familiar face. Years ago he had spent many long nights in the Leaky Cauldron spying for the Death Eaters. His familiarity with each hidden crevice and potential hiding place provided Snape with extraordinary skills to complete his task, but unfortunately, he was too late.
The back room where Andrea and Russell had taken their supper was now empty. Frustrated, Severus sat down at the deserted table and closed his eyes. The residual remains of his wife's earlier presence lingered like perfume in the air. He knew she'd been in this room sitting at this exact table, just moments before, and his heart ached.
Where was she now? Was Russell holding her? Was he planning their escape? At least he knew they'd still not left for America, but things were moving much too slowly. And Snape also knew, their curing potion 286 had most likely run its course, so he would also have to deal with that if he found her. Disappointed, Severus returned to the upstairs meeting room to report his findings to Kingsley and Dumbledore.
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The next day, Andrea and Russell were almost ready to leave when Russell unexpectedly realized he had one last task to complete at Gringotts. Assuming he would not be long, Russell insisted that Andrea wait in front of the bank, but after a few moments of standing uncertainly by the door, she decided she could use the time to stretch her legs. It would only be for a short while, and if she was careful to stay out of sight, she rationalized there would be no harm in it. After all she'd been through, the walk might do well to clear her mind.
Glancing at her watch, Andrea noted the time and promised herself to be back in front of the bank in exactly half an hour. Surely, Russell wouldn't mind. After bolstering her confidence, she tugged her purple cloak around her body and slid the hood over her mouse-colored hair, making sure her face was well hidden. Frowning, she tried to cover her swollen belly with the cloak, but it was nearly impossible. She guessed this wasn't such a bad thing. People were used to seeing other pregnant witches out for a day of shopping. Besides, there was nothing else she could do now to hide it. She would just have to be cautious.
Beginning her stroll, she glanced at the display in the pet shop window before continuing down the lane. Toward the end of a long row of shops, she found a small store specializing in children's merchandise with a display window that offered tiny broom toys and colorful baby robes. With a heavy heart, she paused and thought about the twins. Why couldn't Severus be with her now, loving their children as she did? How could she have been so wrong about him? With a heavy heart, Andrea knew she had to be strong. It was time to forget and lock away the memories. Her strength would guide her and the babies to a new life.
As she walked slowly along the street, she thought about her future with Russell. What would America hold for them? After all that had happened, she was determined to make a good home for her family far away from England. Impatiently, Andrea looked at her watch again. She still had a few minutes to spare.
Aimlessly, she continued down the lane. The last store on the main street was a magical music player shop. It seemed so long ago that she'd given Severus the player for his birthday. In a bloom of remembrance the happy memory flooded her mind. The smile on her husband's face haunted her thoughts and like a dagger it pierce her heart. It had all been a lie. He'd never loved her. Their entire marriage had been a sham, a feeble attempt to keep her as a pawn for the Dark Lord.
Not knowing exactly why, she wandered inside the shop and moved along the rows of music, her eyes scanning the titles, daydreaming about what might have been. As she moved along, she pulled her hood tight around her face and lowered her eyes, feeling the onslaught of yet another round of tears overtaking her, the salty liquid blurring her vision. Keeping her head down, she rounded one of the displays only to be stopped by a man blocking the aisle. The only part of him she could see was his worn, black boots and the black wool pants that covered his long legs.
"Excuse me, sir," Andrea asked demurely. "Could you let me pass?" As she spoke, her eyes remained downcast, avoiding the stranger's eyes.
"Andrea?" the man whispered in astonishment.
At the sound of her name, Andrea lifted her eyes, the fear of being discovered flooding her senses. Her cover now blown, she needed to see who had recognized her. The wide, shimmering blue eyes locked with a pair of liquid obsidian orbs that were also stretched open in shock. When their eyes met, Severus instinctively reached out to touch her, but she was too quick. Recoiling in fear, she cringed and fell against the display, knocking down several stacks of tiny boxes in the process. Alerted by the noise, the customers and the store owner turned to stare, but no one moved.
"No, no! Leave me alone. Please …" Andrea pleaded, her body now shaking in fear. Defensively, she pulled her wand and tore down the display to block his path before quickly backing away. Turning, she bolted for the door, only to trip over her robes in her rush to get away.
Severus was right on her tail. Detained for only a few seconds, he blasted the pile of debris out of his way with a quick spell. Determined to reach her, he lunged forward to grab a piece of her robe but came up empty-handed. Scrambling back to her feet, Andrea barely escaped his grasp as she dove for the exit. Almost too late, Severus realized he had been foolish to attempt physical contact. Reluctantly, he took direct aim.
"Stupefy!" The word rang out like thunder through the store, the red bolt of magic hitting a second display. Despite his careful aim, he barely missed Andrea's retreating form. The blast shattered the advertisement above it, severing the head of the lead singer for the Weird Sisters from the rest of his cardboard body.
"Andrea! Wait!" Severus yelled his voice filled with anguish as he ran after her.
Frantically ignoring his plea, Andrea reached for the doorframe, but as she attempted to pass through, a long arm blocked her path. It was Kingsley. Clutching her arm like a vise, he held her captive, gently forcing her into submission as she tried to beat him with her fists.
"Let me go! Please, sir, you don't understand. I have to get out of here …" Andrea's frightened eyes blazed up at him as she tried to push away, her arms shaking like Aspen leaves in her fright.
"Don't be scared. You know me. It's your friend, Kingsley." The strong, calming voice tried to soothe her, but she struggled in his firm grip, looking furiously over her shoulder in frustration, trying to see where Severus had gone.
"Yes, of course, Kingsley," she said, attempting to reason with him. "I'm sorry, but I must get out of here!"
"Just come with me now, and I'll help you." As tenderly as possible, Kingsley pulled her out into the street.
Not ten paces behind, Severus followed, trying to stay out of her line of vision. The two men made eye contact, and, with a quick nod, they both Apparated to Kingsley's room at the Leaky Cauldron.
"Bravo. You've found her," Dumbledore said, coming quickly to Kingsley's aid as he struggled with her frantic movements.
At once, Andrea caught sight of her husband, and with all the strength she could muster, she screamed, "Nooooooo! Get me out of here!" Her tiny size betrayed the strength with which she fought as she flailed her arms in an attempt to break away.
Shacklebolt lifted her off the ground and motioned to Snape. "The potion. Give it to me," he grunted as Andrea punched her elbow into Kingsley's rib cage.
Snape tossed the bottle of concentrated Calming Draught into Shacklebolt's waiting hand, being careful not to make contact. The last thing they needed was for their earthquake reaction to interfere and lay waste to the Leaky Cauldron.
Andrea's terror-filled eyes were fixed on Severus, her pupils dilated and dark next to the stark whiteness that encircled them. "Please," she whimpered weakly before her voice fell quiet, her body quivering. Her fear of him and of the potion Severus had just handed to the old wizard took control, erasing all other thoughts except the urge to flee.
The bottle was opened and brought speedily to her lips. As she opened her mouth for one last scream, Shacklebolt saw his opportunity and forced the purple liquid down her throat. In seconds, she had slumped like a ragdoll in Kingsley's arms, finally allowing Dumbledore to rush in and assist. In short order, the four of them took the Floo network back to Hogwarts.
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When Russell came out of the bank a few minutes later, Andrea was nowhere to be found. How could he have been so stupid as to let her out of his sight? It had only been thirty minutes, yet she had somehow disappeared. But hopefully, he thought, not without a trace. Making a hasty search of the area, he came up with no immediate clues. She must have gone shopping, he thought. In rapid succession, he questioned all of the shopkeepers along the main street until finally he found an answer at the music shop. The owner admitted seeing the lady and also described a tall, thin man dressed all in black that had been snooping around his shop that day. The man had chased her out of the shop, and the storeowner had no idea where she'd gone after that.
As the shopkeeper droned on, Russell's hopes evaporated into thin air. His heart was crushed. He'd almost succeeded, but instead, failure was the bitter reality. Yes, he had failed, but Russell was an optimist. He would never give up. Somehow, he'd find a way to help Andrea escape. Russell knew Snape was evil, and even if it took a lifetime, the truth would be revealed.
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Golden light filtered down on Andrea's eyelids, forcing her mind away from her nightmares and back into a slow wakefulness. There remained a jumble of images that cascaded through her consciousness as frightening and elusive as a faded ghost. Filled with the confusion of a lost reality, she attempted to make some sense of the memories held within her aching brain. As she struggled to open her eyes, she was unaware of an observer watching her every move.
Sitting ramrod straight in a chair by her side, Severus watched, his eyes scanning for the telltale movement that would signal her arousal from sleep and his need to leave. The time had come. With a hopeful heart, he retreated to the hospital wing entrance, passing Dumbledore on his way inside. The men said nothing, but a slight nod from Severus indicated all was well.
"Dumbledore?" Andrea said, focusing as best she could on the headmaster, who now occupied the seat Severus had just vacated.
"Good afternoon, my dear. I thought you were going to sleep right through till morning."
"He's here, isn't he?" she said, her eyes searching nervously about the room. "Why did you bring me back? I can't stay here."
Dumbledore leaned over and patted her shoulder. "Now, calm yourself, my dear."
"You don't understand!" Looking at him with wild eyes, she stammered, "He's evil! He's working for the Dark Lord!"
"You must not think such thoughts."
"He … he wants to give my babies to the Dark Lord!" Andrea stammered as she began to cry.
Severus inched closer to the entrance, but kept out of sight. He was listening intensely, devastated by what she was saying. He knew, of course, that it was the spell that was making her talk that way, but it hurt him just the same.
One question spun like a circling vulture inside Snape's skull. Was he really doing enough to fight the Dark Lord? His mind tried to be logical, but his emotions were once again overwhelming him. Were any of the bad things that had happened to them preventable, or were these things brought upon them by some higher judgment as punishment for his earlier life?
"There is no need to worry," Dumbledore assured her with a sympathetic tone. "Hogwarts is the safest place for you to be right now. You are protected here. I have stationed security personnel at the wing entrance to make sure no one can enter without my permission. You must have faith, my dear. No harm will come to you."
Andrea nodded but felt she had to explain. "I'm so sorry, Albus. I didn't know where to turn. I knew he'd follow me. I'm sorry I ran away like that, deserting my classes, but I had to hide." Pausing, she took a deep breath and continued, "Headmaster, I know you must think I'm mistaken, but I assure you, S … Severus … he's not what you think." Searching Dumbledore's bright, blue eyes, she asked, "Do you really understand?"
"Yes, my dear," he replied, "I understand."
Madame Pomfrey made her way over to Andrea's bedside and efficiently checked her vital signs, pleased with the results. "Excellent! You seem to be in fine condition. The babies' heartbeats are nice and strong. Now," she said in her most authoritative voice, "I want you to drink this Calming Draught. We need you to relax and get yourself back to normal."
"But, Poppy, I'm fine…" Andrea protested, not wanting to drug her mind again.
"No arguments. Just do as I say." Madame Pomfrey had a way of speaking that did not allow for arguments, so Andrea drank the entire glass, immediately feeling the effects as the warmth filled her body. Her head dropped peacefully back onto the soft pillow as she fell asleep once again.
Poppy smiled. "That'll do," she said with a smirk. "Severus was very clever, mixing the Calming Draught with the antidote that Kingsley brought with him. That man is a genius."
"Severus does seem to have a knack for these things," Dumbledore replied. "Unfortunately, from the information I received from the developers at St. Mungo's, I understand the antidote takes a day or two to work." He glanced down at the sleeping woman, a peaceful expression now gracing her features. "Poppy, I know he is anxious to see his wife, but please do not allow Severus into the ward without my permission. Even though she is sleeping, I think it is best that he only comes as far as the door, and he must stay out of her sight."
"Yes, of course, Headmaster," she answered.
On his way out, Dumbledore met a very concerned Severus at the wing entrance.
"Well? How is she?" Severus asked. As if in prayer, he touched the fingers of his hands together signaling his attempt at control. The impatience, however, blazed in his eyes as he directed the question to the headmaster.
Choosing his words carefully, Dumbledore looked at the Potions master over his glasses. "She is, as expected, sleeping quite peacefully. Poppy just gave her the second treatment, and as you know, Severus, it will be a few days before you can see her."
"She is asleep now?" he said, moving at once toward the door, his eyes filling with anticipation.
Dumbledore's hand met Snape's chest, the old wizard still a physically powerful presence.
"Get out of my way … sir," Severus said his voice low, his eyes narrowing dangerously.
"No, Severus. She does not need the trauma. If she should awaken—"
"What? Are you a healer now? I know exactly how strong I made that Calming Draught, and I can judge what is best for my wife. Stand aside." In a rare show of defiance to Dumbledore's authority, Snape moved forward slightly, testing the headmaster's will.
Even though Dumbledore knew it was only concern and love that drove the man before him, he needed Severus to clearly understand who was in charge. Besides, there was another reason why the headmaster was acting cautious.
"I believe you overstep your bounds, Severus," Dumbledore warned. His light blue eyes peered deeply at Snape for a few moments until the headmaster felt him back off. The old wizard then patted the Potion master's shoulder as his expression softened.
"Severus, please listen for a moment. If you recall, you had a very unusual experience with Andrea at the Leaky Cauldron today. You told me yourself that you can somehow feel Andrea's presence, even after she is gone."
"Yes …" Severus answered reluctantly.
"Is it possible that a new variation of the bond you two share could be developing? Think, Severus. You did tell me that you felt her presence in Hogsmeade, too, am I correct?" Dumbledore kept his gaze locked with Severus and waited for a response.
Snape's mouth parted a fraction, and his eyebrow lifted as he began to understand what Dumbledore was saying. "Are you suggesting that our 'connection' is transforming?" Shaking his head, Severus remembered the tingling he had felt and the surge of energy that had pulsed through him.
"Or," Dumbledore cautioned, "perhaps becoming more powerful? At this point, it is only conjecture, but we must be careful. Until we understand what Andrea was feeling at the same time, we need you two to stay apart. I am sorry, but we can not risk it."
"All right," Severus agreed. "I'll wait, but as soon as the antidote has run its course, I want to be notified immediately."
"Thank you, Severus. It will not take long. She seems to be a lot less agitated. Perhaps you should go back to your apartment and get some rest."
"No, Headmaster, I think I'll just wait here." With a look of resignation that seemed all too familiar, he leaned against the wall and hung his head, retreating within himself to evaluate the day's events.
With a sigh, Dumbledore said no more and left the solitary figure to think.
The hallway was dark and quiet, the hospital wing empty except for his young wife. After the first hour, a chill fell upon him, and he wrapped his wool cape tightly around his body. It did not seem strange at all that the bond he had with Andrea was getting stronger, just as his love for her grew with each passing day. People change, as well as relationships, and their lives had grown richer over time. Why then, wouldn't the magic that tied them so closely together change as well? He always believed it was a special type of harmonics that linked them. As much as that link was already strong, perhaps it was moving to bring even more facets of their lives in line. The thought was daunting, yet exhilarating. How far would it reach? And to what end? He was not afraid, but instead welcomed it.
A satisfied smile spread across his face as he closed his eyes. His earlier pessimism had diminished, and a new strength grew inside of him. The past could not be changed, but he had the power to change himself and form their future. He had, after all, been given a gift. Andrea was that gift, and he would spend the rest of his life fighting to keep her and his children safe.
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For the next two days, except for his classes and some much needed sleep, Severus found himself drawn to the hospital wing entrance, the cold, stone wall serving as his resting spot. Finally, in the late afternoon of the second day, his vigil was rewarded. The sound of footsteps on the stairs signaled a visitor, and Severus immediately recognized that it was the headmaster.
"Good afternoon, Severus," Dumbledore smiled at the raven-haired wizard that had become a fixture against the wall.
"Headmaster …" Snape replied, respectfully. "I expect that you will inform me of her progress?"
"Certainly. I will just be a few minutes."
"I'll wait," Severus said, watching the old wizard depart.
Dumbledore swept along the long hall, pleased to see that Andrea was sitting up with a smile gracing her face. "How are you and your little companions doing today?"
"Oh," she said sadly. "The twins have been very quiet, actually. No movements at all. They seem to be … um … as melancholy as I've been these last few days."
Dumbledore tried to keep a straight face, remembering the look on Severus's face just moments before. With a twinkle in his eye, he asked her, "Why do you say that, my dear?"
"Well," she replied, "I … I don't know, but …"
"Yes?" he asked.
With a big sigh, Andrea began to release several hot tears down her cheeks. Embarrassed, she quickly wiped them away. "It's because … I miss him so …" Her lower lip started to quiver, and she shook her head. "I'm so sorry, Albus, I just feel so bad about what I did. I'm sure he hates me now. I never wanted to hurt him. I love him so much." The tears started again, and Dumbledore conjured a handkerchief for her.
"How do you feel? Has your fear left you?" he asked.
"I'm fine. I only feel sad and … and stupid." She gave him a half smile, but the tears continued to flow. "How is he? Is Severus angry with me?"
Dumbledore smiled. "Well, perhaps you should see for yourself. We have a visitor right outside that wants to see you."
Andrea sat straight up, frantically trying to blot away the tears. "Oh, no! Wait! How do I look? I'm a mess. Can you get me a mirror?"
"I think it is a little too late," Dumbledore chuckled. Madame Pomfrey had taken the hint and gotten Severus from the front entrance. He walked behind Poppy and then slowly approached Andrea's bed. Like magnets, the two eyes stared hopefully at one another, each one trying to guess the other's thoughts.
"Hi," Andrea said shyly.
"Andrea," he softly answered back, his tone one of caution, yet laced with an odd formality. Stopping at the foot of her bed, he waited as Dumbledore had suggested. Behind him, the headmaster and Madame Pomfrey made a fast retreat.
In a small voice uncharacteristic of him, Severus asked her, "I understand you may still have some residual effects of the spell. Are you still afraid of me?"
"Well, just a little," she answered truthfully and looked away.
"You have no need," he replied quickly, his gaze never wavering. "That is, you have no need … to be fearful." Searching for the right words, he continued, "I wouldn't. I mean … that is to say—"
Andrea smiled at his nervousness, but when her own fears began to bubble to the surface, her smile quickly vanished.
"Albus explained the spell to me. But, yes," Andrea admitted. "I am afraid."
When a look of worry appeared on Severus's face, she quickly spoke again, her words coming in short, anxious sentences. "No, no, you don't understand. I'm afraid because I didn't want to make you angry with me. I should never have doubted you. I should have been stronger. But I was such a fool, and I ran away … just like an idiot." She sniffed but laughed at his expression of surprise. A glimmer of a smile returned to her face as she added, "And you hate idiots."
"Hmmm," he said fighting a smile of his own. "Do I?"
"Yes you do!" Andrea grinned, the tears now completely gone.
"I suppose you're right, but I think I could make an exception," he drawled, approaching her slowly. "How do you feel? Any side effects?"
"Well, I don't think so," she answered, her eyes sparking with emotion. Inside, her heart pounded with the strength of a battle march. "But please, I'm not sure I'm ready. Can we just take it slow?"
Frowning, Severus nodded. He didn't want to rush her. Turning to go, he pulled his cloak around his shoulders and let his hair fall forward to obscure his expression before he began the long strides that were sure to take him away from her.
"Wait," she said.
Slowly, he turned back and looked into her eyes, a glimmer of hope hiding behind a look of resignation.
"Stay," she said softly.
Bowing his head, he replied with relief, "As you wish."
"I do," she answered. "Wish it."
Unable to control a smirk of triumph, he crossed his arms and replied, "Quite."
A/N: Please take a moment to review. It feeds my muse. Thank you to my faithful beta Fainting Fancies. Also thanks to my loyal reviewer: Wendy Waddles