What the Weekend Brought
Zelda held her husband's arm lightly as they entered the Great Hall for dinner. She could feel his tenseness, although his face was expressionless as usual.
"It's been a lovely day, hasn't it? I'm very hungry," she said brightly. "Look, here's Hagrid!"
"Good evenin' to yeh," said Hagrid genially. "S' been a fine day."
"Splendid," replied Zelda. "How's my adorable Rowena?"
"Jes' fine," he said. "We were in th' Forest most of the day, so she an' Fang are nappin' back at home."
"Wonderful. I'm glad she has such fun with you."
They approached the staff table and Minerva beckoned to Severus.
"Since you were absent most of the day, would you mind sitting here for dinner? I have several little things I'd like to discuss with you."
Severus sat down next to her with Zelda on his other side. On Zelda's other side sat Professor Flitwick and beyond him, Professor Sinistra. The witch met his icy gaze defiantly with a haughty tilt to her chin, but a flush betrayed some strong emotion.
"Did you have a pleasant day?" Minerva asked softly. "I know what Potter and Zelda had planned and I hope it wasn't too obnoxious."
"Potter chose a crofter's cottage with a small piece of land and Zelda enjoyed it very much," he replied. "Your estate agent was most helpful, and seemed oblivious to our identity."
"It's over twenty years since his parents died, and he's made his way in the Muggle community since then. I'm glad he could assist you."
"Zelda and I plan to stay at her house for the next week, unless you feel I must be here more," he said.
"That will be fine," said Minerva. "At the staff meeting tomorrow I shall present a schedule for night patrols. Everyone will sign up for their times and I'll accept no excuses for their absence. You've covered for too many, Severus. I know you feel strongly about patrols, but you need not carry so much of the load."
"Thank you," he said suspiciously, wondering if Davis or Flitwick had said something to her.
Meanwhile, Zelda was chatting lightly with Professor Flitwick, feeling Professor Sinistra's dark eyes on her frequently.
"It was a splendid day, wasn't it?" said Zelda. "Severus and I went out to play in the sunshine today."
She radiated the well-being of a woman who was loved and had spent the afternoon in bed with her adored husband, a sight that delighted Professor Flitwick. That kind wizard had felt dreadful the night before after seeing what Professor Sinistra had attempted and he was thrilled to see the young couple looking much better.
"Severus is lucky to be married to you, my dear," said Professor Flitwick, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
"Thank you, but I'm the lucky one," she replied mildly. "Severus is wonderful and we have such fun together."
Her limpid gaze met Professor Sinistra's dark stare, and there was the faintest hint of a challenge in her voice.
"I could go on all night about how wonderful Severus is, but I suppose we can change the subject. Are your students all coming along nicely as exams are drawing near?"
"They're doing quite well," he replied. "We had rather a rocky start to the school year, but things have improved greatly now."
Professor Sinistra was toying with her food, a hint of sullenness on her face, Zelda noticed. She continued chatting with Professor Flitwick until dinner was over, always aware of the witch's presence although she didn't say a word to her.
"Zelda, Professor McGonagall wishes us to have a drink with her," said Severus as they rose from the table.
"How nice," said Zelda. "It's been lovely talking with you, Filius. See you tomorrow, I hope."
She met Professor Sinistra's gaze and gave her an insufferably innocent smile before walking with her husband and Professor McGonagall out of the Great Hall.
The Astronomy teacher watched them leave, confused and angry. She was unaware that Professor Davis was quietly watching as she wheeled suddenly and left the room. That wizard had seen bafflement in her dark eyes and thought in the short run, this silence about the love potions was unnerving the witch. It was a subtle, interesting tactic. What Sinistra might do next was beyond his comprehension, however.
"Sit down, my friends," said the headmistress. "I've become aware that a most ugly incident occurred last night."
"Really?" asked Zelda coolly. "How did it come to your attention?"
Minerva seated herself across from them. Zelda was frowning and Severus was rigid, radiating a cold fury.
"Phineas Nigellus happened to be in your drawing room portrait last night and heard you discussing the incident with Professors Davis and Flitwick. I understand you decided not to share the information. I shall not confront Professor Sinistra if you do not wish it, but you should know I am aware of it."
Zelda turned and glared furiously at the portrait wizard who was listening avidly, as were all the portraits. She reached for Severus's hand and then looked again at Minerva.
"I don't want it made public," Severus hissed icily.
"It is not only your decision," replied Minerva. "I cannot have a teacher on staff who is willing to violate the personal integrity of another in such a vile way."
"Has she signed a contract for the coming school year?" asked Zelda. "You'll be in a bind if you dismiss her now, but let it go until the end of the school year and then quietly fire her scrawny ass."
The ruthless tone of her suggestion made Minerva and Severus both stare.
Smiling demurely, Zelda said, "Don't look like that. Maybe I want to mess with her mind a bit while she finishes her job. If you, the portraits and Professors Flitwick and Davis watch her, she'll be careful."
"How do you plan to mess with her mind?" asked Minerva.
"Probably just swank around with Severus, acting disgustingly happy. I do it anyway, and it seems to irritate her," said Zelda airily. "My existence bothers her, you know."
"It would certainly avoid a scandal," Minerva replied. "The portraits won't say a word, and I trust our colleagues' discretion. We'll do it your way, then."
Zelda grinned. "I knew you'd see it my way. I'll be coming and going with Severus sometimes, even when we're staying at my house."
"We'll make sure you're safe here," promised the headmistress. "Severus, you have quite a loyal defender in your wife."
He smiled cynically. "Soon I won't dare to leave home without my clever wife by my side. A sad comeuppance, isn't it?"
He smiled ruefully at his wife, squeezing her hand and making her laugh.
"I'll handle the night patrol so you may have a quiet evening," said Minerva. "I'm terribly sorry it happened and I'll keep my eye on Professor Sinistra for the duration of her tenure here."
"Thank you," said Severus stiffly. "If there's nothing else, we'll be going."
"Oh, Minerva, will it be okay if Harry leaves school at times?" asked Zelda. "He's going to have his own home, and I know he wants to start settling in as soon as the place is his. That'll be in three or four days."
Minerva sighed. "Normally it would be out of the question, but we all owe a great debt to that young man for the burden we placed on him and his brave struggle. As long as he maintains his studies and asks permission, I see no reason why he cannot begin to organize his home."
Severus began escorting Zelda to the door, but she detoured over to Phineas Nigellus.
"We'll talk later," she snarled furiously.
Severus glimpsed a smirk on Dumbledore's portrait face in response to Zelda's statement.
"Severus," said the portrait wizard cheerfully. "Have a good evening."
Severus scowled, nodded curtly and propelled Zelda toward the door. As soon as they were on their way he drew his wand and strode briskly toward the dungeon stairs. They arrived at home, Zelda panting slightly. She looked up at him ruefully, then threw her arms around him and kissed him.
"Alone at last," she said mockingly. "I felt like a total fool all evening long. I'm going to make Phineas sorry he squealed."
Her humor did much to disarm his ill humor. "I've never been used to having an ally," he said. "Now I have a sexy defender who can even make me smile."
"Lock the door thoroughly and get undressed. I have some ideas about how to make you smile again," she suggested.
"Excellent. I want no interruptions," he said, sealing the door against intruders. "May I undress you, pet?"
"Yes, I think that would be delightful," she murmured, nuzzling his neck affectionately.
They walked slowly to the bedroom, holding hands. Zelda knew Severus was humiliated, first over having fallen prey to Sinistra and now, knowing that Minerva was aware of it. He'd allowed her to speak up on his behalf to a remarkable extent, but his pride must be suffering. Fortunately, she thought rather shamefully, she loved allowing him to have his way. He needed it now.
He unlaced the back of her dress and removed it first, then the chemise. He unfastened her bra and her breasts ached briefly, deprived of their customary support until he put his hands beneath them and held them tenderly.
"Come and lie down so I can look at you," he commanded gently.
She blushed but went along with him, saying, "Is that really a good thing to do?"
As she lay back on the pillow, she raised her hips and he removed her knickers. Mindful that it was uncomfortable for her to be on her back for long, he turned her gently on her side and sat down to study her changing body. He traced the blue veins visible in her heavy breasts, fascinated by the way her body was slowly changing. He kissed each breast and lay down by her side, fully clothed.
"You're beautiful," he said as he caressed her cheek. "Lovely and delicious as a ripe peach, sweetheart."
She quivered slightly, feeling heavy and sensitive as his hands explored her. He sat up, parted her legs and began touching her. She began to breathe faster but, mindful of his wishes, she allowed him to do and see what he wished. She felt stunningly vulnerable and allowed him to know it.
Severus planned to join her, but first he wanted to watch her lush pregnant body respond to him. He well knew the signs of her approaching orgasm.
"Look at me," he murmured softly, offering his pleasure in her submission.
She looked into triumphant black eyes, seeing herself reflected in his mind, looking beautiful and loved. Those persuasive fingers brought her to the edge, but he slowed briefly.
"Are you my sweet pet?" he asked, stroking her playfully.
She nodded guiltily and offered her adoring submission, pleading for completion.
"Good girl," he said, gently mocking her as he skillfully finished his play, watching in delight as she shattered into complete bliss.
"Ah… Severus," she murmured, wide-eyed and tender as her racing pulse gradually slowed. "Are you coming to bed now?"
He stood up and slowly removed his clothing. Then he climbed into bed and pulled the comforter over both of them, gathering her into his arms.
"You're wonderful for my ego," he said, knowing why she'd cast aside her shyness and allowed him to do it. "I feel better now."
She pressed against him and murmured, "I want you to feel even better. Better and better and better."
A sudden movement in her belly startled them both, making them smile at each other.
"I frequently feel afraid of fatherhood, but I grow fonder of the creature every time I feel this," he said, moving down to press his lips against her abdomen.
"You'll be a splendid father," she murmured, caressing his hair. "You're a perfectly adorable husband."
She kissed his hooked nose, drawing a small, complacent smile from him, and slowly began kissing other places. He thought nothing was better than this, the freedom and safety of his own nakedness as his lovely wife kissed and caressed his most sensitive places.
"Zelda," he whispered urgently, "I want you now. Hands and knees."
She was so responsive and so bloody sexy, he thought as passion consumed them. Her pregnant body took them to a new level of intimacy that he had never imagined possible. He lost himself in ecstasy, feeling at one with Zelda in this act of love.
Severus woke in the wee hours of the morning. No longer distracted, he needed to think. He'd foolishly let himself be vulnerable and the consequences had hurt his wife. Her stubborn loyalty hadn't disguised how wounded she'd been over those bloody moments, knowing nothing could have stopped him except his colleagues. Zelda was insecure, proud, and extremely sensitive. Logically, he knew it was a potion, yet his conscience smote him. He lay awake for a long time, guilt washing in waves through his mind. The sky was lighter before he could sleep and he was utterly dispirited. As usual, he turned to her for comfort, pressing close and laying his arm around her waist. He felt their child moving in her, as often happened while she slept. The small motions lulled him to sleep.
Severus marched grimly into the staff meeting on Sunday evening, wishing for a reprieve from seeing Aurora Sinistra's face. At dinner she'd stared at him often enough that he found it hard to ignore her, although she wasn't seated close to him. He forced himself to speak with Professor Davis, but it was difficult. Fortunately the proofs of his potions text were due to arrive in the next few days, so Severus was asking for assistance in proofreading.
"I'd be honored," said Professor Davis. "Since textbooks change so rarely, it's important to make it as accurate and complete as possible."
As they left the Great Hall, Severus felt Sinistra's gaze on him again and he shuddered.
"You okay?" whispered Zelda. "She hardly took her hag eyes off you, and I'm not amused."
He smirked, charmed by her waspish tone.
"Hagrid will return Rowena in a few minutes and as soon as the staff meeting is over we'll go home. I'll be happy to be away with you," he said.
At the bottom of the dungeon stairs he put his arm around her and they walked slowly home together. When she was comfortably settled with Rowena he headed for the staff meeting, hoping it would be brief.
The meeting was not yet called to order, but the table had a parchment chart on it and people were lined up before it.
"Hello, Severus," said Minerva pleasantly. "Everyone is to sign up for patrols which they'll be obligated to complete. The rest of the meeting will take place when the patrol schedule is filled."
Severus reviewed the agenda, pleased that it would indeed be a short meeting. He then enjoyed watching Tonks banter with several of her colleagues.
"Sibyll, you only signed up for two! There's an open one on Thursday evening, shall I add your name?"
"No indeed, Professor Tonks. I can do no more. It is the demand of my Inner Eye for solitude," whinged the witch.
Tonks smirked wickedly at Severus and said brightly, "I don't see your name here, Professor Snape."
"That's not your concern," he said icily, with a brief mocking glance.
Tonks signed her name once more in an open space and then sat down, smiling demurely. Severus sat down between her and Professor McGonagall and the meeting was called to order.
Periodically Tonks would whisper a snarky comment and Severus reflected that it was something he'd found annoying about her as a student, but now it helped keep him conscious as discussions droned on. Finally it was finished and they prepared to leave.
"It's unfortunate that Mr. Filch can't whip unruly staff members," he commented as they rose from their chairs.
"You snickered," she replied softly. "Twice. I heard you."
"Merely a cough," he said, glaring coldly at her.
"It's nice to have Zelda here," she said disarmingly. "The more I get to know her the more amazed I am that you found such a fun person to marry."
He frowned nastily at her and received an innocent smile in return.
"That was a compliment, you know."
"I'm glad to be freed of responsibility for your behavior," he told her severely.
She grinned and he realized she was looking especially vibrant. If possible, her hair was a more brilliant pink than before and her dark eyes sparkled. But before he could enquire, Professor McGonagall joined them.
"I'm considering giving you both detention," she commented softly.
"It was Severus's fault," said Tonks. "I was just scolding him for his childish behavior, but I have to go now."
She sailed out of the staff room, waving cheerily as she left.
Severus rolled his eyes at Minerva and said, "I'd prefer to escape detention, if possible, but Nymphadora is another matter, the impudent brat."
She smiled at him. "She certainly was a pest as a student, wasn't she?"
"That bloody Sorting Hat spared you, you know, and I never heard the end of it," he said reminiscently. "I wanted to hex that Gryffindor hair right off her head, you know."
"The Blacks were all a bit mad, you know. She's lucky that her mother married Ted Tonks, rather than continuing the family tradition of inbreeding," Minerva said cynically.
Severus had no wish to discuss or even think about the Black family.
"We'll stay at Zelda's house this week, so I'll be here during the days, but not overnight," he told her. "I'll check in with you upon my arrival every day."
"Fine," she replied. "As long as your work is done, feel free to come and go as needed."
"I appreciate your confidence," he said. "We'll leave Hogwarts now and I'll see you tomorrow."
He turned and left the staff room, and in the dim, empty corridor found himself face to face with Professor Sinistra. His wand was in his hand without conscious thought, pointed straight at her.
"Severus, I must speak to you," she murmured urgently.
His eyes narrowed and he hissed, "If you ever come near me or mine again, you'll regret it, Sinistra. Step aside."
The blazing fury in his eyes frightened her and unwillingly she fell silent and stepped aside. She watched him go down the stairs toward the dungeon until he was out of sight. Slowly she headed for her own quarters, her face an empty mask.
It was good to be home and alone together. The cats had not become feral, contrary to Zelda's dire prediction, but they seemed disgruntled with another change in their routine. Marshmallow came around first, and rubbed affectionately against Severus's black-clad leg, leaving a spectacular amount of fur behind.
Zelda winced. "She hasn't been brushed lately."
He smiled ruefully and watched the white cat go next to Rowena, sniffing eagerly. The older cats glared disdainfully at this undignified performance.
"It's not so late here, but I'm ready for bed," Zelda said. "I have to say I haven't had time to miss work in the past few days."
"I'll be along soon," he said.
He went around the house making sure all was well. He and Zelda had agreed that wherever they made their home, it wasn't practical to be so far from the wizarding community where his work would be. He'd miss this house, though, the place where he'd first known and loved Zelda. He wished Lily would choose to live here, but Zelda refused to hope for it.
"I don't want to place a burden on her. I regret letting go of this place, but Lily needs to be free," she'd said.
She was right, but few places had been so joyfully significant to him. When his life was in ruins, she had appeared and offered him kindness, changing everything. It had happened in this house, and he regretted leaving the place behind.
He decided to join Zelda in bed. She planned to stay at home on Monday, but then accompany him to Hogwarts the rest of the week, so it would be a busy time. She'd work with Potter to complete the purchase of his cottage, meet with both Goyle and Crabbe to evaluate them for basic learning disabilities that may have impeded their magical studies over the years. He began undoing his clothes as he entered the bedroom where she was curled on her side, reading.
"Hey, I missed you," she said with a welcoming smile.
"We have a busy week ahead, so I thought I'd enjoy your company while I'm able to."
She grinned cheerfully, making him reflect on the joy of being married to this woman who delighted in his company. He tossed his clothes onto the chair and climbed under the covers.
"Life with you is very good," he said, running his fingers through her unruly curls.
She kissed his chin and snuggled close. "I like being married to you."
Love potions, retirement, students and Hogwarts were far away, so they slept well that night, delighting in the present moment and looking forward to the days ahead.
