Hey y'all thank y'all for your patience! I do hope y'all are enjoying this view of the story I swear it will start getting interesting in the next chapter! Or at least more drama! XD
1. Hermione is going to get more of Severus' attention in OOtP
Thank y'all for the reviews I want to try and answer some of the reviews in the beginning of the chapter! So keep reviewing and i'll try and remember to answer! :D
But with out further ado, heres the next chapter!
Winter was officially upon them in the castle it had become drafty to where Severus had to keep his hearth alive for most of the day just to keep his room decently warm while he slept. Not to mention the blanket of snow that covered the school damn near overnight, he only had this weekend left to deal with the students than they would once again be gone and he could relinquish in the silence.
Chiming echoed throughout his room as it reached two in the morning, Severus ran his fingers through his hair and down his face massaging his eyelids, having decided to work through the night to get the students their classwork back for studying over the holidays. Since it was Friday evening, he had nowhere to be tomorrow morning, blinking several times; Severus couldn't help but let his thoughts wonder.
Roughly a month or so ago, after the incident with Harry at the quidditch pitch, Albus had called him in for a meeting.
"Ahhh my boy how nice to see you this evening…"
Severus rolled his eyes, he was playing at something, he always was, what was it this time though?
"How are you doing?"
"What in the bloody hell do you want Albus? I have potions to be brewing…" Severus trailed off as he crossed his arms over his chest, watching the man with that motherfucking twinkle in his eye.
"My boy I want to reward you!" Severus raised a curious eyebrow at the statement…'Reward for what?' He couldn't help but ponder at the headmaster's sentiment.
"Well with Harry of course. You are finally becoming detached, I am glad that you have listened to reason Severus. You will help Harry in more ways than one later down the road and we don't need those feelings clouding your judgement when it comes to particular events that could occur."
Listening to the headmaster, Severus was angry, he could feel his magic vibrating within his veins, pulsing through him as if it would break through him at any moment, and he took a deep breath, kept his mask in place.
"Thank you headmaster. What is my reward?"
"You will not be called on as frequently for the next few months, Severus."
Severus mentally groaned, 'Oh good I don't get to be a damned lap dog for a few months, but then what?'
Severus had turned on his heel not waiting to be dismissed, but before he could make his exit Albus spoke up, "Oh and Severus?"
"Do you have any holiday plans?"
Severus felt the anger return to him for a few short seconds, before snapping himself out of the memory and gulping down the amber liquid that was in his tumbler.
Leaning back in his chair, fighting off a migraine, staring straight at his Firewhiskey bottle, having lost count of how many times he had worked through the night with a bottle of Firewhiskey by his side over the years.
Stacking several of his papers to one side those that had already been marked and to be returned, when a piece of parchment caught his eye. 'Oh merlin's sake I forgot I have to play chaperone once again to McGonagall's posse…I wonder if it will play out like last time…'
Re reading the letter from the headmaster, he was convinced that he just sent him a copy of the one from Halloween he just changed the dates, and the date was of course officially today. The last weekend before the school holidays, fan-bloody-tastic.
Morning was slowly approaching, the chimes of his grandfather clock were becoming longer, the dark grey of the lake outside of his window, was becoming lighter, and he could hear the owls hooing their morning calls.
"This is going to be a long day…Naelby." Severus spoke as he recorked his Firewhiskey, as he slipped his reading glasses back on the bridge of his nose.
"Good Morning, Master Snape. What can Naelby get you for breakfast this morning?" The elf's ears flipped and flopped back and forth, as the small creature spoke. He was wearing the socks that Severus had given him and the toboggan sat upon his head, Severus couldn't help but give a small smile at the elf who has been by his side for many years.
"Good Morning Naelby, I've been up all night, I do believe first and foremost would be some coffee."
"Yes sir! Anything in particular to eat sir?"
"Some eggs and toast with some jam for breakfast."
"Is that all?"
"Yes, Thank you Naelby. "Severus nodded his head, but the small elf hesitated.
"Naelby?"
"I'm sorry sir, I'm just anxious about the headmaster. That I cooked you breakfast…"
"It is alright Naelby. Albus won't care too much he came to reward me and now I won't be his lap dog for the next few months hopefully."
The small elf smiled, Severus wanted to add to reassure the small creature he considered a friend, "You know Naelby I would never put you in harm's way."
Naelby's ears were bouncing back and forth nodding his head so much. "I know sir, but some of the other elves…well like you say even after all of these years they don't trust us…and as soon as the dark lord returns…well you know…"
Severus patted the head of one of his only true friends, "I know Naelby…" He took a pause, "You would think after all of these years, after everything we have done for them, that they would have some type of loyalty to us…"
Standing from his desk stretching himself out, he undressed himself on the way to the bathroom, hearing a small pop from behind him, and he was alone again.
Looking at himself in the mirror, his caramel colored eyes were bloodshot, the dark circles were quite apparent under his eyes this morning, and the five o clock shadow was prominent "I look as good as I feel."
Sighing Severus jumped into the shower leaning his head up against the wall feeling the heated water running down his back nearly dozing off in the shower, he shook his head, trying to keep himself awake. 'Come on old man, you have to get back into practice…' He mused to himself morbidly, shutting the water off, grabbing his towel to wrap around his waist, going back over to the sink, rummaging through the medicine cabinet he found what he was looking for, a pepperup potion.
Chugging it back, Severus left the bathroom in direct course towards his bedroom to get himself a fresh change of clothes before he was to be in the great hall to check which students were attending the last Hogsmeade weekend of the school year. When tomorrow arrived, most of the student body will be shipped back home for a little under a month, than silence.
Severus was gathering his things to head to the courtyard to make sure that all the students that were going to go had permission. When Naelby popped back into his office with breakfast, he could smell the hot eggs and toast, he immediately heard his stomach rumble, thinking back when the last time he ate was around seven in the evening yesterday, its already been twelve plus hours, not to mention of the alcohol in his system…he was starving.
Listening to the padding of his feet hit the bare cobblestone floor, he was dressed in his black slacks and a white button down, at least for breakfast he would throw on his frock coat, and outer robes when he was about to leave.
Setting himself down at his desk, Naelby even added cheese to his over medium eggs.
"Thank you Naelby this looks delicious." Severus offered the small creature.
"You are more than welcome sir. Please enjoy."
"Would you like to join me Naelby?" The small elf's ears perked up, since the beginning of term, they had not been able to spend much time together, but when everything slows down in term wise they would be able to spend Christmas together.
Naelby decided to break the silence with a question he had been pondering about, "Master Snape, will young Master Malfoy be joining us for Christmas?"
Severus stopped eating mid chew and wondered the same thing; he barely had a chance to speak to his godson after the incident with the Hippogriff, granted he heard the news that Lucius was fighting to get the creature executed.
"No he will not be attending Christmas with us this year…I do believe his father is throwing a gala and he is required to be there…"
The small elf's ears flopped forward in dismay, "That is alright though maybe you will be invited to the gala, yes?"
As soon as Naelby finished his sentence they were interrupted by a hoot and a peck at his window, the one that wasn't covered by water. Severus had raised an eyebrow at Naelby, 'Curious.'
Letting the bird in, who swooped down next to his hearth to get warm from the fresh blanket of snow that has decorated the lawns of Hogwarts overnight.
Severus rummaged through his desk to find an owl treat, but to no avail did he find one instead he tore off a piece of his toast to hand over to the small bird, after feeding the animal it lifted its leg over to him. Untying the parchment from the owl's leg, he opened the letter to read:
Severus,
Seeing as you helped me out with my classes a while back ago, and I am in good health, I felt that I should make it up to you.
I will take going to Hogsmeade weekend as chaperone in your place. I am already down at breakfast and will head down from the courtyard so no need to send a reply. Just enjoy your weekend off. Thank you again Severus.
Remus Lupin
Severus was going to admit that the werewolf was growing on him, at least he was tolerable now and wasn't a complete pain in the ass, maybe this time away from Black and Potter has done the man some good.
"You look happy sir, good news? Is it from Master Draco?"
"No Naelby its not from Draco, but it is good news. Lupin will be taking over as chaperone for the buffoons for the Hogsmeade trip…"
"That's wonderful sir! Will you be going to sleep then?"
Severus nodded his head, "Yes, thank you again for the breakfast Naelby."
Severus than proceeded to strip down back into his silk boxers, to lay in bed for the first time in over twenty four hours, as soon as his head hit the pillow he was out into a dreamless sleep.
Hermione awoke to a frigid breeze, wrapping the blanket around her shoulders; she sauntered over to the heater in the middle of the room, and turned up the heat a smidge. Within minutes, the room was warmer, and she was able to start getting ready for the last trip to Hogsmeade for the year.
Bundling herself up so she would stay warm, a new blanket of snow had fallen over the grounds. She gathered her things, slipped her wand in her sleeve and was out of the common room before the others woke, she didn't want to listen to the gossip of what they were all going to be doing over the holidays. She made the decision to stay here with Harry over the holidays; he has seemed lonely over the past few months, with the Weasley's talking about some of them going home over the break.
Heading to breakfast, she had a good feeling that Ron and Harry would already be down there waiting for her.
Entering the great hall, she found that Ron was once again feeding his face while Harry picked at some eggs, she was really worried about him.
"Good Morning you two!"
"Morning 'Mione" Harry spoke sullenly, Ron continued to chew until he was finished
"Morning." 'Oh Harry'
"Harry is there any type of treat you want from Honeydukes? I'll pick it up for you when I pick mum and dad up their annual toothflossing stringmints."
Hermione dared a glance over at the head table, "I wonder who is going to be chaperoning us?"
"I hope McGonagall and Snape do again, I would love to see what happened last time happen again."
"Oh Ron."
"Come on Hermione it was priceless…oh wait I forgot Snape's your boyfriend."
'Oh fucks sake…How I wished….'
"Ron. Don't start."
"Everyone that is leaving to Hogsmeade, head to the great hall." McGonagall announced, as others were starting to line up to head out. Everyone was chattering about what they were going to pick out and asking their friends what they wanted.
"Come on 'Mione!"
Hermione got up to leave, went to hug Harry whispering in his ear, "Why don't you go check on Lupin yeah?"
His face brightened up a bit as he escorted his friends to the great hall, Hermione turned to wave at Harry with a small sad smile.
Climbing into the carriage, it was snowing once again, bundling up listening to Ron talking to someone about quidditch, while she just tried to stay warm.
Within minutes, they were down at Hogsmeade, Hermione turned to see that Ron was looking around for someone.
"Oh Ron. It's not going to happen."
"I can dream can't I. I guess it was a once in a lifetime."
'Granted she prayed to Merlin that she got to see the potions master, but it doesn't seem like he was chaperoning this time, it was Lupin. Oh no. Harry was going to go seem him.'
"Oh no Ron. There's Lupin."
"Yeah…so?"
"I told Harry to go see if he would help him…."
"Why would you do that Hermione?"
"Well we went to Hogsmeade and he is there by himself!" Hermione explained, "Come on Ron lets go get Harry some treats."
They entered Honeydukes, which was swarming with their classmates Hermione took notice of Lupin grabbing some more chocolate bars.
"Hello professor Lupin."
"Hello Ms. Granger, I hope you are doing well."
"Thank you professor, I hope you are feeling better! Harry told us you weren't feel up to teaching him just yet."
"Yes well im stocking up on chocolate to make sure that I can." He suggested, getting a half dozen chocolate bars.
"Well have a good day professor."
"You too." The shaggy man walked off towards the counter when she found Ron looking at Blood pops.
"Ron, I doubt Harry would want any of these. I bet they are for vampires…"
"Maybe Snape stocks up on these for the year…" Hermione couldn't help but roll her eyes, as some of the other students around them giggled at that thought.
'Seriously I thought that rumor died after our first year.' Hermione mentally groaned.
"Well what about these?!" Ron shoved a package of cockroach clusters towards Hermione, pushing the package away she heard another voice next to them.
"No I think not. Ron I also agree with you about those Blood pops and Snape." Ron nearly dropped the package, but caught it.
"Damn it Harry."
"Harry!" Hermione squealed out as she tried to look at him flabbergasted, but he was under his cloak. "What are you doing here? Harry you need to go back to the
castle you could get into trouble!"
"Only if someone rats him out!" Ron hinted towards her, she felt guilty even though she wanted to protect her friend while a psychopath was running amuck around the school.
"Alright let me pay for these you two go outside i'll meet you out there." Hermione grabbed ahold of some her sugar quills, toothflossing spearmints, couple chocolate frogs and bertie botts boxes.
Hermione left the shop, looking both ways for the one boy that she could see when she noticed a red head sitting down outside of Zonko's. "Alright you two what did I miss?"
Harry explained to them about the marauders map that fred and George gave to him, 'I swear those two should have been placed in Slytherin….those sneaky little devils.' Hermione mused as she listened to the story and Ron whine about not getting the item from his older brothers.
"Well Harry you can't keep it! What if its from Black?"
"Of course he can, he got it from Fred and George!"
"Okay but what if Black is using those passages as well to get around?" Hermione hissed at the two boys, 'They never use their heads, if they didn't have me who knows what would happen!' Hermione stewed, as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Ron coughed to grab their attention, "Hey Hermione look at that." He pointed towards Honeydukes, there was a sign posted on the door, explaining about the dementors that roamed the streets after dark.
"This makes it even more dangerous. Harry you haven't been trained yet…what if something happens to you with the dementors and we can't see you because of the cloak and than you are stuck in Hogsmeade overnight. With those creatures." Hermione legitimized, she could feel both the boys roll their eyes.
"Come off it Hermione no one is going to see anyone with a snow storm like this. Just let Harry have today its Christmas break after all."
"Hermione….are you going to report me?" He questioned from underneath his cloak, she had a right mind to do so, but she couldn't.
"No. Harry I wont, but you need to be careful…"
"Yeah yeah, hey Harry did I tell you about when Fred and George gave me acid pops? God were they horrible, it burned a real hole through my tongue. Mum chased around the twins with a broom for hours after. It was priceless."
Hermione followed behind Ron, as if he was showing her the sights as not to raise suspicion at what Ron was pointing at, "That's Zonko's. The post office. The Hog's head is down there, no one really goes to it though."
"Alright you two I'm freezing lets grab some butterbeer." Hermione suggested as the snow was starting to soak through her scarf and hit her bare skin.
Hermione lead the way to the Three Broomsticks, when they entered it was warm, and it took the bite of the wind away. Cacophony was all around them, the sounds of clinking glasses, murmuring of other students, and laughter was all over the inn.
"Oh um that's Madam Rosmerta…" Ron trailed off, "You two go find a table and I'll grab us some drinks."
"Make sure you look nice for your girlfriend Ron." She teased him, just as he teased her earlier, no one needed to know that hers was actually true as well.
"Come on Harry I see an open table over there in the back." She made a way through to explain any bumping from Harry.
"At least we get to sit next to a Christmas tree." Hermione mused out loud, no matter what she knew she wanted to look around and attempt to see a certain potions professor drinking trying to get warm from this frigid storm, but to no avail.
Ron came over with three tankards full of butterbeer, as they each took one, they raised their glasses, clinking and cheering "Merry Christmas!"
As they were chatting and chugging their drinks, when a frozen wind came through the open window, they couldn't help but look at who came through the doors, and Harry nearly spat out his butterbeer. It was Professor McGonagall. She had company with her, but Hermione turned to Harry, but he was already underneath the table.
"I have an idea Ron. Let me know when they aren't looking."
Waiting a few seconds, Ron whispered now!
"Mobiliarbus." She charmed the Christmas tree to move to where the adults who just came in wouldn't see them at all. Realizing that they sat at the table on the other side of the tree,
"Hermione…we should go." Ron whispered quickly, Hermione shook her head.
"No. We have to wait for them to leave." She hissed back at him, sipping on the rest of her butterbeer. They gave their drink orders, finding out what her professors liked to drink, she only wished another was here to find out what his favorite was. 'Come on Hermione focus. You need to get Harry out of here.'
"So what brings you three here? Especially on a day like this?"
"Besides the chaperoning, we wanted to come talk with you about Black."
'Oh no. Harry please don't do anything stupid.' Hermione thought to herself as she continued her drink, looking over at Ron she could tell he was sweating bullets.
"You know those dementors have searched Hogsmeade a dozen times now and there has been no such luck of his whereabouts. You know that it's been bad for business."
"It's to protect everyone, even if its precautionary." Fudge spoke as he took a sip of his own drink.
"From Black though, he was such a good boy in school I remember him. How he could possibly go to the dark side is beyond me!"
"You don't know the half of it Rosmerta"
"Really?!"
"Yes you say you remember Black as a boy correct?" Rosmerta nodded her head
"Do you by chance remember who his best friend was?"
"Yes Black and Potter those two were inseparable."
Hermione nearly snorted her drink, while Harry dropped his tankard onto the floor.
Continuing to listen to their conversation, she picked up one sentence that Harry wasn't going to be able to stand, "When James married Lily, they named Black Harry's godfather."
A gasp from underneath their table, confirmed that Harry heard their conversation.
"What about Snape? We never saw the two of them together, but Snape was part of you know who's inner circle was he not?"
"How do we know that he didn't convince Black to join you know who?"
"We don't. All we have to go on is what Albus trust. He trust Severus, but I don't."
Hermione wanted to roll her eyes, but she looked over at Ron who held a smug look on his face. 'Whatever I trust him and that's what matters.'
"Granted Black was their secret keeper…but Albus wanted to be it instead…"
"Wait do you think the headmaster suspected Black?"
"Not necessarily, just someone that was close to the both of them."
"Again though it rises suspicions once again about Snape."
"It does. He was best friends with Lily until about their sixth year or so. When he actually joined into you know who's circle with Malfoy."
"So what Black joined Snape because Snape offered some type of protection from you know who?"
"That's what some of us believe yes."
"Black betrayed them?"
All of those that knew the backstory nodded in agreement, as Hagrid blurted out a bit too loudly.
"I was the one that rescued Harry from the ruins of his house. I was the one that took him to those muggles." Hagrid was damn near in tears, when he took another gulp of his drink.
They listened to the rest of the story in silence, not knowing what Harry was going to do or if he would say anything.
Eventually Minerva sniffled and brought up, "Well if you are to have dinner with the headmaster than why don't we head back now so you can warm up and get some of this mead out of your system." Her Scottish brough was thick with the alcohol that she drank.
When they all left, Hermione looked at Ron motioning to check on Harry. Looking under the table, he sat there flabbergasted. Gulping.
"Harry…"
"Harry are you okay?" They pushed everything back to normal throwing the invisibility cloak back over him, escorting Harry out.
"Ron I'll take him to Honeyduke's Im going to help him get into the basement. You pay." She opened the door for a split second longer so she could basically shove Harry through the door. Trying to drag Harry down the dirt path to Honeydukes was a challenge it seems that he went into a catatonic state with the information he heard. It took ten minutes to get Harry to the sweet shop, the students were lining up to get back to the school, apparently the weather was to get worse, so the professors were calling it early.
"Harry we will see you back at the school, go. Now!" Harry than went down into the basement and Hermione went back outside seeing that Ron was waiting for her next to a carriage.
Sprinting over before the carriage left without her, she spoke softly to Ron,
"Ron. I'm worried about Harry."
Hours had passed by the time Severus re awoke in his bed, feeling as if he actually got true rest the first time in several years.
Waking up and heading down to a late lunch most of the students were in hogsmeade while the younger ones were either out playing in the snow or huddled up by the fires in the great hall, chatting with one another or doing holiday homework.
As soon as Severus sat down to breakfast, a voice interrupted the making of his lunch.
"Ahh Severus my boy I was wondering where you were at? You did miss breakfast after all."
Severus wanting to ignore the headmaster and continue to eat in peace with the book he brought, but he preferred not to have to hear a lecture on his manners in front of the other staff members...again.
"Yes Albus I was up all night grading papers." Severus left it at that simple sentence hoping that it would deter the old man.
"Well remember Severus you have to show professionalism as a professor of this school." Raising an eyebrow and a dark gleam in his eyes one that made them glow like coal was burning. Keeping his features nonchalant the headmaster will not get a rise out of him, there were only a few staff members in attendance, but nonetheless he had to do it publicly.
All he could think about was the fact that once again, the headmaster shows favoritism and is a hypocrite. You would think that after all these years Severus would not be surprised at this, but on occasion Severus had to repress a twitch in his eye from Albus for his sheer annoyance.
By the end of the day, Severus was relieved that he just had to go finish the papers, than owl them to their owners, and he was done for the holidays. However tonight all he had to do was make it through dinner than send out the papers since he had finished grading them after lunch, than tomorrow most of the student body would be gone. There was only a handful of people remaining at Hogwarts this year, wanting to get away from the threat that could be Sirius Black roaming the grounds. 'Every bloody year…' Severus thought.
Dinnertime had rolled around, Severus was early for this meal, having to play nice with Albus so as not to get any more repercussions, when he sat down in his seat he took notice that Lupin was once again absent. Flipping open, his pocket watch, he still had about fifteen minutes before dinner began, skimming the book he was reading for where he left off, he was studying some Latin phrases he needed to translate another book.
Within minutes there was chattering students infiltrating the great hall, talking about the feast that they were going to eat tonight and speak once again about their Christmas plans.
The headmaster stood from his throne, conveyed his usual Christmas holidays speech and the food appeared infront of them, he took notice that shepherd's pie was on the menu and dished himself up a good portion.
Flipping the pages in between spoon full of mashed potatoes, beef, carrots and gravy, he heard a voice trying to break his concentration.
"Severus." An exasperated sigh.
"Severus!" He still ignored the old man, he had been calling him for the past few minutes but he did not want to have anything put on him, he was just going to ask questions and berate him why he wasn't the one chaperoning their dumb arses.
Flipping another page, glancing out of his peripheral he noticed that McGonagall was about to put her hand in front of his face, he did have a personal space that people were not allowed in, grabbing a hold of her wrist.
"Yes headmaster, you do not need to have your personal lion to get my attention."
Letting go of her wrist, she huffed in frustration.
"Well Severus if you would answer him the first time I would not have to be the go between." Huffing as she stood from her chair and left the great hall, turning his head Severus watched as she left.
Going back to his reading, taking another bite of his food he heard once again the headmaster spoke to him.
"Severus did you forget your responsibilities this morning? Or did you just not want to go?"
Severus rolled his eyes, "No Albus."
"Then explain Severus why did you miss chaperoning the last Hogsmeade weekend of the year?"
Severus put his fork down, turned to the headmaster with a smirk on his lips, raising an eyebrow.
"Why did you not bring this up earlier when you clearly saw this morning that Lupin went down with the students…?"
"You know the rules Severus. You have been here longer than Remus has, so you know the protocol."
'Is he really trying to put this on me…?' Severus continued eating, while he mentally shook his head incredulously.
"Will Remus be getting a lecture as well?"
"Not the point Severus, you neglected to send me a written letter this morning that Remus was taking your spot as chaperone."
"I went to bed."
"That was your choice. You chose not to send me a reply and chose to go to bed instead."
Severus smirked, knowing all too well of the irony that was about to be.
Standing abruptly from his seat he leaned in close to Albus' ear, hissing, "Yes Albus. I chose this life." Turning on heel quickly he exited the great hall, a proud feeling reveling through him. 'Ha got to throw those damned words back into his face.'
Hermione had climbed the stairs up to the common room, she wanted to drop her things off before dinner and take a hot shower.
After her shower, Hermione wondered down into the common room, looking around there was no sign of Harry or Ron. Hoping that they would be down in the Great Hall already, this was the last night before everyone went home for the holidays, so the atmosphere was cheery instead of dreary thinking of Black roaming the grounds.
When she reached the great hall, she noticed that Ron was seated next to his brothers.
"Hey Ron. Have you seen Harry?"
"No. I haven't."
"Ron!"
"Oi Hermione sit down." Percy called over to her, she settled herself down next to Ron who was not worried about their friend what so ever.
Hermione loaded her plate up with food, and watched the door religiously for Harry, she didn't realize that eyes were boring into the spot where they were sitting. Eventually taking a minute to look up at the head table, she noticed that Snape was watching them; she nearly yelped and hoped that she didn't get caught. A blush rising to her cheeks she turned back to her food, when she eventually noticed that Harry had sat down at the table across from her.
"Harry where have you been?"
Severus arrived back in his office, noticing a letter upon his desk; he took a deep breath assuming it was from the headmaster. However, when he picked up the letter it was from the Malfoy's. 'Ahhh maybe this is my invitation.'
Ripping the letter open, Severus unfolded the letter.
Dear Severus,
As we have not yet received an answer to your invitation to our winter solstice gala, both Lucius and I decided to send you another one to make sure that you are alright.
Please reply as soon as possible.
The Gala will be on the 21st of December at 7pm.
Black tie affair.
Love your family,
The Malfoys.
Severus was exasperated, not only was Albus deterring his families' messages but also he was probably keeping them from him. With everything that happened with Lucius over the summer holidays, Albus did not want his precious spy to fraternize with the people that he called family he wanted him all to himself as his motherfucking lap dog.
The wind howled echoed throughout the dungeons while he was writing a reply back to Cissa and Lucius. 'How fucking dare him, if this isn't the fucking cherry on top.' Severus decided to send out the students papers as well, the more owls going out the less likely that he could intercept his letter.
He had three days to get prepared for this gala, than he would have to be back here for the Christmas feast that Albus held every year, and it was mandatory for him to attend. Severus was fed up with the treatment from Albus; he went back to his personal rooms, and started to pack a bag.
"Naelby."
Within seconds, a pop echoed through the room, "Yes Master Snape?"
"Would you mind going to Lucius and asking if I could stay with them up until the gala?"
"You were invited sir? That's fantastic!"
"Yes Naelby we were invited. Albus stole the first invitation himself."
"Not a bit surprised sir." Naelby whispered sadly, "Neither am I Naelby. That is why we have to repair our relationships with Cissa and Lucius."
"I'll be right back sir."
Naelby was gone, Severus needed to stop by his vault in Diagon Alley before he went to their house, and he needed to grab some of their favorites in wine, whiskey, and a couple of rare cigars for Lucius.
Another pop, Severus didn't even blink, "Master Malfoy said that he will be expecting you after the students leave tomorrow."
'I wonder if Draco will be expecting me at the house when he arrives…'
"Thank you Naelby."
As he finished packing, he took to his whiskey, running his fingers through his hair.
"Curious what else is Albus hiding from me?" A fake bark laugh left his lips, "Oh so much."
Taking the bottle to his room, he stripped down and laid in bed to fall into a drunken stupor.
Waking up to the squid in the lake suctioning and unsuctioning its tentacles to his windows, 'What the hell?' Severus rarely ever heard the noise, the squid preferred the middle of the lake, but it must have been a frigid morning if the creature is trying to stay warm.
Deciding to keep it as casual as he could, Severus dressed in his black slacks, white button down and his frock coat unbuttoned.
Severus made his way to breakfast still on edge from the previous night, sitting down in the great hall a searing cup of coffee appeared on the table in front of him.
Waiting for others to appear it did not take long, soon enough most of the professors were in attendance, and the students were all in celebration as after breakfast they would be heading home for the holidays.
"Severus what have I told you about professionalism?"
"I could ask you the same question Albus."
The headmaster raised his eyebrow at him, "I will be leaving this afternoon as soon as the student's leave."
"Oh? And where might you be going?"
"Well the Malfoy's have invited me to their Christmas gala." Severus made direct eye contact with the headmaster to challenge him to relay the truth to him or see how long he will continue with the lie.
"Severus…"
"I will be back for Christmas dinner Albus."
"That is not what I am worried about…"
"What are you worried about Albus?"
Their conversation was cut off by the arrival of Minerva sitting down in between them; Severus sat in silence with a smirk on his face, while he ate his breakfast.
Hermione had been up for hours, working on her various homework, she wanted to get a jumpstart on her schoolwork now that she has almost a month off. She could probably go back three or four times a couple times a week and she should be able to get ahead in her work, which hopefully meant an easier spring semester.
When Ron came clambering down the stairs, yawning and running his fingers through her carrot colored hair.
"Hermione how long you been awake?"
"Not sure? Since before the sun was up. Ron if you want help with your homework you best hurry up."
"Are you sure you can help? It seems as if you have enough on your own plate."
"Okay I'll just go back to work than…"
"Alright alright let me go back and get some." Ron had climbed back up the stairs, and Hermione continued her schoolwork.
Hours had passed as they worked on their homework, when another sound from the boys dorm brought her nose out of her ancient runes book.
"Where is everyone?"
"Good morning Harry!"
"Gone remember it's the first day of holidays." Ron chimed in, as he was trying to scribble down a sentence for his homework.
"It's nearing lunch I was going to come get you in a bit before we left."
Hermione watched as Harry plopped down into the chair next to her, she looked over at Crookshanks he had first been in her lap through the morning but then when Ron came into the room, he had jumped and moved infront of the fire as if he was watching for something.
"Harry….Harry we didn't talk about what happened yesterday…"
Harry grunted a response, that wasn't comforting.
"Harry you can't go looking for Black." Hermione warned him as she closed her parchment in her book.
Hermione and Ron tried to convince Harry how much of a bad idea it was to find Black, and to let the dementors and the headmaster deal with the situation.
"I knew Snape was a greasy git I just didn't know how much!"
"I trust him Ron you should too!"
"Of course you trust your boyfriend! But didn't you hear anything yesterday?"
"Come off it Ron they were only speculating on things. There was no fact in what they said, to quote "That's what we all believe." Unquote."
"And what about the Malfoy's, it all fits doesn't it. Snape and Malfoy were together in you know who's inner circle, Snape convinced Black to join and that's how Malfoy knew and must have told Draco." Ron had jumped to a conclusion that would have better been for his schoolwork.
"Ron if you put that much thought in your homework than you would be passing all of your classes with flying colors." Hermione interjected huffing, when Ron didn't know what else to say, and Harry was sitting and stewing about Black, he attempted to change the subject.
"We could always go and visit Hagrid?" Ron suggested, Hermione shook her head no.
"Or we could get our homework done or maybe you two can play a game of chess?" Hermione piped in quickly, hoping that Harry didn't remember that Hagrid was at the meeting yesterday.
"Oh no lets go to Hagrids."
'Damn.'
Trudging slowly through the snow, the frigid wind blowing against them, Harry was marching with a purpose, Hermione occasionally made eye contact with Ron and they both held worried expressions, it took them only a several minutes to reach Hagrids.
If they weren't on a mission, Hermione would take a moment and enjoy the scenery of the school. Looking around, it was a peaceful afternoon, she had skipped both breakfast and lunch and she was beginning to starve coming out of her studies.
When she heard balling behind her, she turned on her heel quickly, "Hagrid?"
Breakfast passed with the headmaster attempting to make eye contact with him, but he stood from his seat and went to gather his Slytherins. He went out into the Entrance hall, leaning up against the cobblestone wall, buttoning up his frock coat, going over the list of students of who was going home, he had an idea to hint to Draco that he would be coming over.
Soon the students were filtering out of the Great Hall, his snakes started to line up before he even asked, when the other head of houses were trying to get their students in line.
"You know the drill. I call your name and you get in the carriage." Severus barked at the students, he went through the list when he reached Draco's name.
"Draco Malfoy."
"Hey godfather."
"Hello Draco. I do believe there will be a Christmas present waiting for you when you get home." The boy tried not to show his excitement in front of his peers, but Severus still saw the sparkle in his eyes.
"Really? Can you give me a hint?" Severus smirked.
"No. Now get going or you will have to wait longer for it." Draco pouted his way onto the carriage, pondering about what the present from his godfather was going to be.
As he checked off the last of the students, Severus went back to his personal quarters to grab his pack and hike his way down to Hogsmeade for the closest apparition point.
"Severus."
'Why can't this fucking man leave me the hell alone?'
"What do you want Albus?"
Severus opened the door to his rooms, "Have you thought this through Severus? Did you hear what happened to Lucius over the summer? His home was raided several times as the ministry had gotten an anonymous tip from someone that he was hiding some of the dark lord's artifacts."
"Have I thought this through? Thought what through Albus? These people are family."
"I thought I was your family Severus? I've always considered you my son."
"Bullshit Albus."
"Severus I'm telling you the truth."
"Don't fucking play with me Albus. You are fucking bullshitting me. If you really were acting as a father why the fuck did you not help me get Harry? Or hell why the fuck
didn't you take Harry as your own?"
Silence.
"Also an anonymous tip huh? Was it fucking you? Just because I went there over the summer holidays."
"No Severus I…."
"You. What?" Severus seethed, his blood pressure was through the roof and he wanted to throw something or spar he was infuriated.
"You know silence is an answer as well Albus."
Before the headmaster could say another word, Severus had his pack on his back, the door open for Albus to leave his rooms, so he could ward them and leave. When Severus was warding his rooms, Albus was lingering about.
"I did all of this to protect you Severus."
"No you fucking didn't. Do not worry Albus I know I am to be used and abused. I know I 'Chose this life." With that final statement, he left the headmaster in the middle of the dungeon corridor.
When Severus was outside, he wanted to run he needed to release some of this aggression that was pent up. Slipping his back off his pack he tapped his pack with a wand making it instantly smaller, he put the bag into his frock coat pocket and he sprinted down the hill taking a deep breath at the gates of Hogwarts, than sprinting once again to hogsmeade it would have taken fifteen minutes by carriage, it took him about seven.
Hermione was seated in Hagrid's hut listening to what was to become of Buckbeak, and she was damn near in tears. Trying to comfort her friend, she promised they would go to the library tomorrow to research ways to get the hippogriff off.
"It was that prat Malfoy."
"He must have really run to his dad…"
"Well you heard him Harry, 'My father will hear about this!'" Ron mimicked the Slytherin poorly as Hermione heard the tea kettle whistle in the background. Standing she went and grabbed the kettle handing everyone a tea cup and some tea.
Hagrid didn't say anything, but just balled into a handkerchief. The comforting wasn't necessarily working Hermione was guessing that he was probably going to end up drinking the night away today, since also there are no more classes…Hermione had a thought about coming down to check on him at least twice a week until school resumes.
Plus she really did want to help Buckbeak.
The boys were attempting to comfort Hagrid, when Hermione got a glimpse out of the corner of her eye, of a streak of black across the window, Hermione turned her head curiously, 'Was that….Did he just run down the grounds…?' She pondered, as she took a sip of her tea.
'I wonder what is the matter….is it something with the headmaster? What about Black? Did he see him…we should get back to the castle.' Hermione was lost in her thoughts, when someone called her name.
"Come on 'Mione we need to get back to the school its almost dinner time."
'Finally. Food.'
Hermione hugged Hagrid, "Everything will be alright Hagrid; we will go to the library tomorrow, and get started."
"Thank yer Hermione, Ron, 'Arry." He blew his nose as he went back into his hut.
They walked back up to the school in silence, except for the crunching of the snow underneath their feet. Hermione at this point could hear her stomach grumbling about the lack of food, she went straight for the great hall, wishing she had one of her books but she wanted to just gobble down some food and get back to her studies.
When they arrived, Hermione noticed that all of the tables had disappeared once again, and they were back at a round table.
The headmaster was already seated, "Good evening you three. I figured why all eat at separate tables when we could converse together."
There were ten seats available, seven out of the ten chairs were taken, she knew exactly than and there who was missing, it was Draco and Snape. A pang of jealousy tinged her innards, 'Did he go to the Malfoys? Well hopefully he wont be there the whole time…' Hermione piled her plate full of food, and she listened to the boys talking about
Christmas, Quidditch, and his upcoming lessons with Lupin who she realized was also missing from dinner. She stayed quiet, knowing that they did not want to talk about the debacle that was yesterday or this afternoon, hopefully Christmas break was up hill from here.
After dinner, she waved the boys off at the common room entrance.
"I'm going to the…"
"Library." The two said in unison, 'She swore they did that every time.'
"Yes to the library. I want to look into some of the books for Hagrid."
"Hermione are you sure you will have time with all the work you have to do?"
"I swear I will you two, but I will need the help from you two so don't go wondering off. I'll be back in a bit." They both nodded, but she knew they weren't going to work on their homework they were probably going to get out that map that the twins gave him and just see what everyone who is left is up to.
Hermione traveled down to the library, attempting to think which books that she needed.
"Hello Ms. Pince, I was wondering where Animal Law would be?"
"That's a curious subject Ms. Granger."
"Yes…I am helping Hagrid."
"Ahhh yes I've heard of his….predicament. Fifth row in the middle."
"Thank you." She walked along to see other books, enjoying the emptiness and the quietness of the library, usually there was always students here murmuring or the slap of heavy books on table, and she just enjoyed the solace.
Skimming the bookshelves, she found several of Newt's books and some other court proceedings in the animal sections.
"I hope this helps Hagrid."
Calming his breathing, he found an alleyway to apperate to the Malfoy's manor.
Arriving at the manor, he had only gotten out a fraction of his frustration, 'I wonder if Lucius would be up for a good spar…'
Before he was even able to knock on the door, Cissa swung the door open.
"Ahhh Severus good of you to join us!"
"Yes I am genuinely happy to be here. Is Lucius here?"
"Yes he should be in his office. We still have time before Draco gets home; we will go pick him up in a couple of hours. Did you want to surprise him here or would you like to go with us to the platform?"
"I'll go with you two to the platform."
"Fantastic."
"Well let's get you settled, Severus what happened to your hair?"
"I am a bit flustered at the moment Cissa. I do apologize for being curt."
"Anything you want to talk about Severus?"
"Not yet."
"Well come on lets go find Lucius."
Severus picked up his sack that he enlarged when he arrived, nodding, he did not want this day to be ruined by Albus he wanted to enjoy this short break with his family.
Within minutes, they found Lucius in his office, replying to some letters. Cissa knocked on his door, and peeked inside.
"Lucius look who's here?!" She opened the door to reveal Severus standing behind her.
"Ahh Severus my dear brother how are you?" Lucius stood from his chair came over to embrace the man; they lingered in the hug for a few seconds longer.
"To be honest. Not good. I was wondering if you were up to spar?"
"Oh um…I do believe we have time for a quick spar…" He looked over at his wife, who shrugged, and looked at her friend with concern.
Severus led the way to their inside sparring area, it was an open room that was the size of the entrance hall. Dropping his pack in the corner, unbuttoning his frock coat throwing the item on his pack, he rolled his sleeves to his white button down and undoing the top most buttons.
Lucius had done the same but left his robes on the banister that was on the side of the room, Severus undid his shoes he preferred to fight barefoot he was always able to have a better grip.
"Ready Severus?"
All Severus could do was nod, the one that suggests the spar is usually the one that starts the spar. Channeling his rage, the one that has been growing over the past few years, he threw a punch towards Lucius who side stepped it.
They did not speak, it was like watching a quidditch game, they each took turn Severus would throw a jab, and meet Lucius arm in a defensive stance, it went back and forth for several minutes.
By the time Cissa arrived with some water, the two men where breathing deeply, circling each other, Lucius threw a jab at him, Severus dropped down and swung his leg out to knock his opponent down, but at the last second Lucius jumped over his leg avoiding falling on his ass. They were both running out of steam, but Severus pushed himself to his limit, there was so much that he had kept pent up and he let everything out. Severus started to throw more aggressive throws and bobbing and weaving to avoid Lucius' punches.
"Severus?" Lucius panted through heavy breaths, Severus turned to the offensive, he had tunnel vision, and every horrible memory of Albus blinded him from what he was doing. As he was throwing the punches his limit was reached the wall he had built up over so many years found a weak spot, and tears were slipping from the corners of his eyes while he was jabbing at his best friend.
His vision was becoming blurry, and he could not see if he actually made contact with Lucius he heard an oof and Severus stopped just standing there, shaking whether from anger or sadness he was not sure. Everything he has built up to where he couldn't lie to the people he called family he needed to let one of them in but he was under oath and he couldn't and that is what was breaking him, was the fact that Severus couldn't tell anyone about the in justifications of what Albus was doing to him.
Arms. He felt arms wrapped around him. The muscles in his legs were finally giving up on him, and he sank down to his knees letting himself lose his mask to show his one true weakness, vulnerability to the people he cared about most.
"Severus what has happened?" They were genuinely concerned for their friend he never broke down like this, not in front of anyone.
All Severus could do was shake his head, "I can't say."
"Breath Severus." Severus shuddered as he wrapped his arms around the person that was holding him, his breath shuttering.
"Does it have something to do with Albus?"
"Yes."
Lucius sighed, "Oath?" No words but a nod in confirmation.
Cissa's voice came in, "Severus are you okay?"
"No." A second pair of arms wrapped around his back.
"What is it?"
A pair of arms left him, but a second later, he felt a glass of water being pushed into his hands. Wiping his eyes so he could see, Lucius held a concerned look as did Cissa.
"Albus." Lucius answered his wife's question.
"What did he do? Maybe I can help?" Severus shook his head.
"No one can help. I can't tell you…" Severus trailed off taking a sip of water, and raising a hand before either of them could protest.
"It's not because I don't want to trust me. I do believe you two would be the first to know. I can't because I made an oath with Albus many….many years ago. If I speak a
word of it… well you know what an unbreakable vow does…"
He felt his hair being tucked behind his ear and fingers going through it, Cissa, she always knew what to do when he was having a panic attack, she use to do it when he basically lived here and had nightmares.
"Severus?"
He didn't want to open his eyes, he needed to regain his composure.
"Is…was… was this going on last summer as well?"
"It's been going on for about thirteen years."
Lucius and Cissa shared a knowing look, they knew something was happening to him but they could never place what was happening.
"By the way I would use the fake names we came up with way back when to owl me for a while. I believe that Albus intercepted the owl and kept it, that's why I never replied back to your first invitation."
"What the fuck?"
"Yes." Severus chugged down more of the water, "Do we still have time?"
Severus informed them of what happened with the tree, his consequences, and some other information that had nothing to do with his son. Catching them up on his life events since he had last been there, for a brief moment he couldn't believe that it had only been six months since he had last been here.
Eventually they sat in silence, "Are you alright now Severus?"
"Yes."
Severus coughed awkwardly, "I'm sorry."
A hand on his chin that moved to his cheek, "There is nothing to be sorry about Severus thank you for trusting us we know you and we know you wouldn't do this unless it was serious. When you can talk with us please any time owl either of us."
He looked them both in the eye, "Let's forget this happened, yes?"
"Of course. You two just had a good old sparring match for old time sake." Cissa smiled up at him while Severus gathered his things.
"Do I have time to take a quick shower before we head to get Draco?"
"Of course."
Cissa was in the middle, Lucius was to her left and Severus to her right. They were going to side along apperate to the closest point to Kings Cross station, ironically he told his godson that his present was going to be at the house, but he decided that he was going to show face with his family in public.
Severus was dressed in his usual garb, black slacks, white button down, and his frock coat. They were about three blocks from the train station,
"Does Draco know that you're coming?"
"I might have hinted that he was going to get a present at the house…but I guess he will be getting it a bit early." All three of them chuckled for a moment forgetting their pasts and just having a moment to go pick up his godson from the express.
"Do you two mind if I take Draco with me? I need to go to Diagon Alley for some things I forgot to stop before coming over…" He trailed off they knew the roundabout reason why.
"Yes that will be fine but you two best be home before dinner." Cissa warned, he was not going to not listen to Cissa he may be a powerful wizard but she was horrifying when she was pissed off.
Severus was anxious, always aware of his surroundings, he was finally going to be on the other side of picking up a student, it was going to be his godson, but he was grateful for the experience.
"Severus why don't you go ahead, I need to speak with Cissa about something."
Severus raised an eyebrow, but he nodded he went onto the platform leaned up against one of the posts while he watched other parents showing up excited to see their children for the first time in six months.
'Curious I wonder what Lucius needed to say to Cissa…probably something to do with my breakdown earlier…' He always hated showing weakness, but those two were the only ones that weren't going to judge him for it, they knew the bullshit.
The train appeared in the station, smoke was clouding about when the train's whistle squealed, than students started to push and shove their way through the doors.
Severus watched for a few minutes, 'Where is Draco?' Than out of the corner of his eye, he saw a bleach blond boy looking for his family. Severus pushed himself from the slab of cement, stalking his way over to the boy, hearing whispers and some were pointing at him.
"Why the hell is he here? Why can't we ever escape?" Some whined.
Luckily, when he approached Draco, he was facing the other direction, "Now what would one young slytherin being doing alone on a platform?" He folded his arms across his chest, when the boy turned to look shocked up at him.
Than a surprised smile crossed his face, "Really?"
Severus chuckled ignoring the peers around them, "Yes Draco I've come to pick you up."
Arms were once again around him, he hugged the boy back.
"Will you be staying?"
"Yes. Until after the Gala." The boy's face sunk for a split second but he was going to relish in the fact that his godfather was going to be attending his first gala in a decade.
"Where are my parents?"
"I am not sure I left them over there…" Severus inwardly smiled, they let him pick Draco up as a real parent, they may not know the whole situation but damn they are close.
Severus wrapped his hand on the back of Draco's neck steering him away from people, a scowl was on his face.
"Fuck there are so many people."
"Don't let mum hear you."
"You're right, she probably chase me around the garden…again."
"Mum! Dad! Look!" Draco pulled Severus' hand over to the couple who was talking in the corner.
"Yes I do believe that Severus has an adventure planned for the two of you today. Why don't you two get going we will take the luggage back."
Severus looked at the two of them and with as much sincerity that he could muster he whispered, "Thank you."
Severus nodded to his two friends; their son hugged them and told them that we would see them later.
Leading Draco away to an apparition point outside of Kings Cross station,
"So godfather where are we going?"
"Surprise."
"Ahhh come on!"
Severus smirked as he side along apperated with Draco, they arrived in a non-crowded Diagon Alley.
"I need to stop into my vault than we can look around for a bit as long as we are back before dinner."
Severus and Draco sauntered down the alley gazing at the window shops; Draco had stopped for mere seconds at a couple of the stores but caught up quickly with his godfather.
Entering the bank, Severus showed the head goblin his wand, the creature knew immediately who he was nodded and had them follow him to a rail.
"These are always fun, I've only gotten to ride it a couple of times coming with dad." Draco stated in a giddy manner.
Making sure that they were ready, they took off in a whirlwind gliding up and down the rail cart, until they finally managed to get to vault 114*.
Severus slipped out the key and opened the vault; he had been building his fortune since he started at Hogwarts. Since he never really ever went on vacation, and when he did he stayed at the Malfoys, or Hogwarts. He has been able to have a little nest egg grow over the years.
Behind one of the stacks off Galleons, he had hidden some valuable wine, which he indulged himself in over the years. Grabbing two different bottles, one of whiskey and the other a chardonnay, he did not bring thank you presents and he did not want to seem like a leech.
Minimizing the bottles, grabbing out his 'coin purse' as they called it in the olden days he filled it will galleons, than placed the bottles safely inside.
"Alright let's go Draco, how about some ice cream?"
As they entered the ice cream shop, he visibly saw the man shaking when he laid eyes upon them.
"How hungry are you Draco?"
"For Ice Cream always hungry!"
Severus rolled his eyes, "Not what I meant. If you get a regular cone, will you eat dinner? I don't need your mother chasing me around the house…again."
The boy took a moment with a smile on his face at the thought.
"I'll take a small chocolate please." Draco was on his best behavior
"And you sir?"
"I'll take a small mint."
Severus pulled out his non-muggle wallet and paid the man, leaving a tip for the gentleman which seemed to calm his nerves from the rumors of the dreaded potions master.
As they sat, the two of them spoke about the upcoming gala, others started to enter the shop, and some turned to leave while others avoided eye contact.
"Draco would you like to go to the bookstore?"
"Could we by chance also stop at the quidditch store on the way godfather?"
Severus nodded, finished his cone, and stood abruptly making all eyes on the shop focus on him.
Draco was finishing his dessert before going into the broomstick shop, Severus stood behind Draco as he browsed around the small shop, and the owner clearly wanting to hide was taking stock in the back and to ring if we needed help with anything.
"Anything in particular you are looking for Draco?"
"I need a new polishing kit for my broom." Draco bluntly spoke as he was trying to find one, Severus looked around found one high above the other things, seeming to be the last in stock for the Christmas holidays.
Going over to the item, standing on his own tiptoes to reach it, granted he could have used magic, but it would have alerted Draco, and he wanted to surprise him. He rarely got the chance to spoil his godson, so he was going to take the opportunity.
"Godfather I can't find one." The boy spoke in a defeated tone.
Severus was already up at the counter, ringing the bell for the owner to come back.
"What did you find here godfather?" The boy asked questioningly, as he came over to stand next to him, but his eyes widened when he saw what he was looking for.
"Where did you find it?"
"High up."
"That will be seven galleons sir." Draco pulled out his money purse as well, he looked down into his pouch he only had a few galleons left.
"Do not fret Draco put it away. Save your galleons for a book you want."
His godson smiled a Cheshire cat grin, "Thank you Godfather." Then wrapped his arms around his waist. There were very few times Draco ever showed affection, granted he could say the same about himself, he never allowed affection because it was a weakness.
"Thank you for your purchase."
Severus turned on his heel, and left the store. They moved down a few stores to the bookstore, more people were showing up from school, and others were mortified to see him out in a public location.
"Alright let's meet back at the counter in ten minutes."
"Alright." Draco wondered off to a section, while Severus went over to another.
They browsed for several minutes, when Severus had picked up a couple more books on ancient runes that he hoped would help him with his deciphering and translations.
Draco was nowhere to be seen; he started to look around before he went into full defense mode. Turning towards where his godson went he found the boy on the floor staring at two books.
"Are they going to move?"
Draco jumped at least a foot into the air when he heard his godfather's voice behind him.
"Don't you ever make a sound?"
"No."
He sighed, than looked up, "I have to pick one I can only afford one I bought to many snacks on the stupid train."
"Which one are you going to pick?"
The boy shrugged, Severus looked at his pocket watch, and they still had some time left before they were expected back at the manor.
"I think I'm going to get this transfiguration one. I'll save up for the charms one for later." Draco stood up and put the charms book up; the boy had gone to towards the counter. Severus snagged the book and put it in between the books he was already carrying, and was right behind Draco before he even noticed.
Draco paid for his luckily he got distracted by another row of books, while Severus paid. 'Well at least I have Draco's present.' He thought to himself, which was a complete bonus of their outing.
"Alright Draco its best we get home or your mum will wring our necks….or mostly mine."
They apperated back to the house, and they had an hour to get ready for dinner.
At dinner, everyone started to catch up with what has gone on since he left this past summer; they didn't speak of the raids that would be a conversation for later after Draco went to bed.
"I have something for the two of you…"
"Severus you really didn't have too we love having you!" Cissa insisted as she took a sip of her wine.
"Shhh he brings the best whiskey." Lucius joked as they all chuckled at the sentiment; Severus had pulled out his coin purse, and enlarged the drinks once more.
"Cissa I brought you some chardonnay your favorite brand." Handing the bottle over to the woman of the house.
"And for you my dear brother as a thank you for letting me stay and for everything that you do." Hinting about earlier, he handed his best friend a bottle of whiskey and a box of rare cigars that he picked up in Spain many years ago.
"Fantastic Severus maybe we can splurge into this later tonight." Lucius paused for a moment, stood from his seat and took Severus into a tight hug.
"You are more than welcome here anytime Severus you know that." Severus genuinely smiled at the family that took him in, running his hands through his hair.
"Tomorrow a tailor will be here at noon sharp I expect the three of you up and ready to get you all new robes for the gala."
The three boys looked at each other knowing the wrath of their mother, wife, and friend.
"Yes Ma'am." The trio coursed.
Morning arrived quicker than it needed to, after dinner the previous night, Severus and Lucius went to have a glass of whiskey and a cigar in his office where they shared what has really been happening.
"What happened this summer Lucius?"
"I had to sell some of my more suspicious collections because someone tipped off the Ministry and they had been in and out for weeks, it was stressful I was barely here trying to clean up everything at work while Draco got the full blunt of people scavenging our home. Cissa was trying to do more charity's to clean up our names…"
"Our robes?"
"They are safe. Not here in my vault."
"I can take them if I need too."
"Lucius why didn't you send me an owl?"
"Truthfully Severus I didn't want your name dragged. It's already been enough. Not to mention that we think that someone was intercepting our letters, because they were taking twice as long to get to their recipients."
"I think I know who tipped off the ministry."
"Who?"
Severus threw back the rest of his whiskey; he fingered the edge of his tumbler, sighing deeply. "I believe it was Albus…"
Looking up at his oldest friend, the man took a deep drag from his cigar, "Im not surprised in the slightest, but damn."
"I think he did it because I came here over the summer, rebuilding our relationship, he wanted to destroy my family unit I do believe or he wanted me to see the 'light' of who
you three really are…" Severus zoned out for a moment before channeling back into the conversation.
"Severus what is going on between you and Albus? It seems its gotten more hostile over the years…"
"Hes a fucking manic Lucius." This was the first information that he had received from Severus in quite a while.
"What is happening?"
"What's not fucking happening. Manipulation, abuse, threats. So many things, let's just say if I don't do certain things he will send me to Azkaban."
"That fucker."
"That's probably the nicest name I've called him." The two shared a smirk, and finished their cigars.
Severus had finished his shower when there was a knock on his door, hearing Lucius' voice.
"I'll go first, but the tailor is here."
"Alright be out in a minute."
Severus dressed in just his slacks and button down shirt, his bare feet padded across the wood flooring to Lucius' office, where the tailor had his magical measuring tape taking in each of Lucius' measurements.
"You're next."
As the weekend quickly ended it was already the day of the winter solstice gala, Severus detested these inane gala's it was usually his alma mater classmates, and the women that were single usually tried to bed him. Never worked.
As he was walking down the stairs fixing his cufflinks underneath his frock coat, he heard Cissa in a damn near panic as apparently, 'nothing was ready.'
"Cissa?"
"Oh good Severus your ready thank merlin!"
"What is going on?"
"Nothing is ready. I only have three hours to get ready."
"Take a breath you go get ready I'll sort things out down here until Lucius shows up."
"Severus you are a life saver thank you." She kissed him on both cheeks, than started for the stairs.
"Are you going to save me a dance Severus?"
"Only for you Cissa."
He hated dancing at these galas, he could of course hold his own, but it was always the same. However, since the first gala that the dark lord attended and he had to bring a guest so he had to bring a date to the event…that was a chore.
Cissa saw him drowning, so she drug him out on the dance floor he twirled her around the floor around the others until Lucius always taps his shoulder asking to cut in.
However this was the first gala that he would be attending since before the dark lord's falling.
Severus was lost in thought when Draco came up behind him.
"Helping mum?"
Severus nodded, "She was in a frenzy, and I sent her to get ready. It seems the elves are almost done."
"I'm really glad that you are here godfather these events turn into bores and I usually just end up next to the tree with a book."
"We both might be there depending on how the evening goes."
"Ahh there you two are. I do hope that you are ready for the evening."
The two of them looked at each other and nodded.
Sitting down at one of the tables that littered the Malfoys foyers, Draco was sitting down next to his right side. Checking his pocket watch it was already nearing six in the evening, and the gala would go to at least midnight to one in the morning, depending how long the hosts could hold out.
People started to appear, as most social situations, he only grunted his response to most of everyone saying their hellos, while his gracious godson stood and was polite to the guests. While the staff walked around with trays filled with wine, others were around at tables munching on food, when music started to play and some people decided to dance.
While he was in the middle of eating his dinner, listening to Cissa gossip with one of her fellow chairwomen from some organization that she was in, Draco started asking him questions about Transfiguration.
When a voice behind him made him grip his fork and cringe inwardly, the voice was high pitched and a giggle after every sentence.
"Severus Snape?" Severus turned to see a woman that was dressed head to toe in pink.
"Yes?"
"My name is Dolores Umbridge." Severus didn't answer her, he turned back to his food, when he heard her harrumph to grab his attention.
"Can I help you?" Severus growled through gritted teeth.
"Yes I was wondering if you would like this dance?"
"No."
Lucius cut in quickly, "Hello Dolores how are you this fine evening? Enjoying the gala?"
"Yes it is quite lovely your wife has fantastic taste." The entire room was decorate with a pale blue and soft white color with twinkles everywhere.
"I see that you met my old friend Severus. I hope he's playing nice."
"Well actually I was wondering if he would dance with me…"
"Did you know Severus that Dolores here is going to be on the Wizengamot?" This drew an eyebrow raise from him, Lucius was hinting at something.
Lucius leaned into him whispering in his ear, "I am sorry, but if you dance with her you are more than welcome to go to bed after."
"Fine but you owe me another cigar."
"Done."
Severus stood from his seat, sighing, looking over at his godson who was sniggering into his napkin, leaning down, "Remember Draco I don't make a sound."
Watching as his godson gulped, he hated when Severus would jump scare him he would chase him around the house until he got tired for scaring him.
Severus rolled his eyes, as he took the woman dressed in pink on his arm; the contrast was noticeable to the other guests. A new song played, Severus waltzed her around the room, with a sneer on his face when she was trying to make conversation with him.
"I am guessing you do not remember me Severus?"
Severus quirked an eyebrow at the woman in front of him, trying to recollect where he had seen her before but he couldn't place his finger on it. "No."
"We went to school together…" She seemed regretful
"Oh."
"Yes you were several years ahead of me…its not surprising that you don't remember me." She paused as Severus spun her around the floor, and brought her back.
"You were in your fifth year by the time I was in my second."
A grunted response, that's why he couldn't remember her she wasn't doused in pink back then.
"So you are potions master at Hogwarts, correct?"
"Yes."
"You work with that filthy half breed Remus Lupin?"
"Yes?"
"Well I'm working on a degree that would force them out of work, would you be willing to testify?"
Before he could answer, luckily, the song stopped and he excused himself from her presence, when Cissa took his arm.
"Last song, than you can retire Severus." A waiter walked past them, Severus downed some wine, and put the flute back onto the tray.
"So what did the odious woman talk about?"
A smirk was upon his lips, "She has an agenda and I'm not sure I like it."
He swirled Cissa around on the floor, as they continued their conversation, when like clockwork Lucius tapped his shoulder to cut in, graciously bowing and kissing Cissa's hand, he left the pair together to dance.
Checking his pocket watch, it was already nearing ten in the evening, and some of the other adults were becoming slobbery drunk and his godson did not need to witness the unsavory behavior of his peers.
"Draco it's time for bed." The boy looked relieved as he escorted his godson to his room and placing a safety ward on his door to make sure that none of the death eaters had any agendas out for Lucius.
Severus went to his rooms, stripped down hung up his robes in the closet for another time, he laid in bed and drifted off to sleep listening to the music that echoed through the manor.
Waking the next morning to Draco jumping and bouncing on the bed, "Good morning godfather!"
"Draco what time is it?"
"Eightish."
"Back to bed."
"Come on godfather you have to leave later this afternoon!"
Before Draco knew what hit him, Severus had grabbed the boy and wrestled him down.
"Hey not fair." The boy pouted as he tried to escape his godfather's grasp. Severus relinquished the boy as he wiggled away.
"Since your up lets grab some breakfast, than I was thinking about maybe a hike to that river you showed us this summer? I want to see what it looks like frozen."
"Alright Draco." Severus grabbed his usual garb, plus his fingerless gloves, and his scarf. Luckily, he had charmed all of these items with a heating spell to keep him warm during hikes or long nights keeping track of rogue death eaters.
Severus yawned as his godson sat down next to him for breakfast, Severus held his cup of coffee within his hands, sipping on it while he waited for his breakfast, he wanted something heavy enough to last through the hike and Draco ordered the same thing, biscuits and gravy.
As they finished breakfast, neither of them saw Draco's parents, Severus flicked his wand for a spare piece of parchment, writing down a note for them so as not to lose it when they found out they were both missing, even though they would be back before either of them got up.
"Alright Draco lets go."
They left the house grabbing some fruit from the green house; they hiked in silence listening to the animal noises that echoed around them, the snow crunching beneath their feet, and the wind that blew through their hair.
Breaking their silence was Draco, "Godfather?"
"Yes Draco?"
"I am sorry I've been such a prat…" He paused for a moment before continuing, "It's been really hard lately, Dad seems tenser than usual I think he knows something but doesn't want to say until he is completely sure it's true."
Severus turned on his heel kneeling down in front of his godson, "Draco…It is alright. I know this is stressful for all of us; it is okay to be afraid of what the future will hold. We don't know what's going to happen but we have to stick together, we are family after all." Trying to break the tension with the boy.
"I'm scared." He looked down into the snow kicking it slightly, Severus did the only thing his fatherly instinct could think of was to take the boy into a hug.
"I know Draco." Severus wasn't going to admit how he felt it would scare the boy even more he didn't need to tell the boy that he had been mentally prepping himself that he wasn't going to survive this next war…
"Alright let's keep going." Draco nodded, wiping at his face with the palm of his hand, it broke his heart seeing his godson so afraid of what is to come, he should be enjoying his time living his life.
As they were nearing the opening through the forest to the riverside, Draco ran past him and challenged him, "I bet I will get there first!"
The two were off, Draco popped through first he stopped stock still at the image that was infront of him, Severus noticed that he stopped and came to a halt right behind him, within seconds Severus put his hand in front of Draco's eyes.
In front of him were two very naked people laying on the snow with a couple of blankets, "Draco I'm going to check to make sure they are alive…I'm going to turn you towards a tree. Do not turn around, understand."
"Yes godfather."
Severus was hoping that it was only two people that wondered off drunkenly last night to sleep with one another romantically and fell asleep. Stepping over to the couple slowly wand in hand, his feet crunching in the snow, it was the only sound he could hear in his ears besides his own breathing. Standing to the side of the two of them, they looked alive he saw a slight rise of their chests, when he seethed.
"Enervate." The two of them popped up into a groggy state of wakefulness, one looked at the other and blushed a deep shade of red, when they noticed that he was standing right next to them, they could melt the snow they were on if they became any more red.
"Good morning…" One of them stuttered, they looked around to attempt to remember what they were doing out there in the middle of nowhere on the estates of Lucius and Cissa Malfoy.
"Get. Going." Severus hissed, he just wanted to go on a relaxing hike with his godson but found two drunks who couldn't find a bed in the actual manor. They both wrapped a blanket around themselves, as they attempted to gather their clothes to get dressed as they hiked back up to the manor.
Crunching his way over to Draco, wrapping his hand on his shoulder and turning to the boy.
"Let's leave this out of our adventure today shall we?" Hinting towards his parents, the boy nodded in understanding.
They sat down on the dock where they jumped off this past summer, sitting in silence for a while until Draco started to shiver.
"I think its time to head back."
"No."
"Draco…"
"I don't want you to go…"
"Draco you will be back at Hogwarts in just two weeks."
"No. I want you to stay. When we are all together it's like the future is forgotten and we are actually living in the moment."
Silence, Severus wasn't sure how to respond to his pleas.
"I know you can't though can you?"
Severus shook his head, "No I have to attend several meals back at Hogwarts."
Draco sighed, than turned to look up at him with a smile, "Thank you for going on this hike with me. It has made me feel like a load has been taken off my shoulders!"
"I'm glad Draco." Severus stood up, went for Draco's hand to help pull him up they both wiped themselves from the excess snow.
"Lets go have some cocoa."
They hiked back to the manor, following footprints that were left earlier, Draco couldn't help but giggle, and Severus rolled his eyes and let himself chuckle.
As they entered the house, they took off their boots and the other items that were dripping wet, when they made their way to the library to enjoy the fire, some hot chocolate and each other's company before he had to leave once again.
The door barged open, Severus had his wand in hand within seconds, "There you two are!"
"Dear Merlin Lucius." Severus mentally growled running his hand through his hair as his old friend started to chuckle.
"Cissa and I wanted to say our goodbyes before you had to go…"
Severus pulled out his pocket watch and saw that it was already nearing two in the afternoon. 'I do hate leaving my family.'
"It's time for me to go." Draco didn't make eye contact with him, but held his hand all the way to the door. Even though he was thirteen and would be fourteen this summer but he always escorted him out in one fashion or the other.
"Goodbye you two thank you for everything." He hugged Cissa first, kissing both her cheeks, not letting go of Draco's hand, and leaning in for a half hug with Lucius.
Whispering in the man's ear, "Draco is taking this hard."
Nodding as he took in the fact that his son hadn't let go of his friends hand.
Looking down at Draco, "Two weeks Draco. I'll send you an owl as soon as I return." Nodding he let go but hugged him tightly, than held out his hand to shake.
Shaking the boy's hand, "Safe travels godfather."
Severus left the manor, looking back to see a family standing in the doorway waiting until he was out of view. Apperating on the spot he arrived back into Hogsmeade, with a fifteen minute hike he reached his destination, the school from hell, Hogwarts.
Two days had passed; Severus had not seen hide nor hair of Albus. Usually he was the first person to greet him back at the school, but he had two quiet days to himself. 'He's probably pissed that I openly went to the Malfoy's and pick up Draco from the Hogwarts Express at Kings Cross.'
It was the night of the Christmas Eve dinner that was mandatory for him to attend as he dressed in his black silk button down leaving the top two buttons unbuttoned, pairing with his slacks and professional lace up shoes. Slipping on his frock coat and buttoning it up except the top three buttons before he exited his rooms and headed up to the great hall noticing that the headmaster did the same thing once again since there were only a handful of students and staff he made everyone sit at a round table.
A couple of students were already sitting down when he entered the great hall; he sat on the opposite side of them, he could hear them whispering about him, avoiding him at all costs. Severus took his book out of his pocket, crossing his right leg over his left; he always hated using his reading glasses in public so he refrained. Headmaster's voice boomed through the great hall, making those across from him jump nearly out of their chairs.
"Since there are so few of us we might as well all sit together and enjoy each other's companies." Albus boomed loudly, while others students were starting to sit down they sat down away from him as much as possible.
Hermione looked forward to the Christmas Eve feast, after last year it was one of her favorite meals at the school. A bonus was that apparently the headmaster gave everyone a Christmas present, if you left early it appears in your common room, however they had waited last year as long as they could until they were escorted back to the their room's.
The three of them were running late to the Christmas Eve dinner, they had been working on Hagrid's case all afternoon, they had spent the morning in the library trying to find as many books as they could about dangerous creatures and the wizarding law.
The boys groaned, Hermione pulled her nose out of her book, looking up she saw that there were only three chairs left, and one was next to the bat of the dungeons.
"Come on you two. I'll sit next to him and bother him again."
"That's an excuse…" Ron mumbled under his breath as if she didn't hear him.
"Alright Ron if you would like to sit next to him…" Hermione trailed off as she went for the seat next to Snape anyways.
"Ahhh Severus glad you were able to make it back for Christmas Eve dinner I hope your camping trip went well." Severus smirked, knowing full well that he didn't go on a camping trip, but to the Malfoys. However he wanted to cover up that fact.
"Yes Draco sends his regards." Hearing chairs scrape next to him, Albus sat down at his right while Miss Granger sat to his left, he smirked as the twinkle in the headmaster's eye had gone out. 'I think I struck a nerve.' Severus went back to his book, until all of the others had joined in on the festivities.
Ignoring all those that tried to start a conversation with him about his trip until Madam Pomfrey asked about some potions and he gave a gruffled answer "Yes they will be ready by the start of term."
He flipped another page, listening in to everyone's conversation, Albus was speaking with all of the other professors that stayed about what they were doing for the holidays and if they would travel. The hufflepuffs and ravenclaws on the other side were conversing about schoolwork and different classes, his son and friend were once again talking about quidditch and what the Weasley boy's family was up too, however Granger was the only one that was copying himself, a book in her lap.
Hermione had her nose in her book, when she heard the boys next to her talking about Quidditch, and Hagrids appeal. She was researching about a court case that happened with Newt Samander, his cases usually got off with the animal living, so she focused her efforts on his specific cases.
She heard the pop of food next to her, dishing up her plate, without taking her eyes off her book, she realized that her favorite professor had done the exact same thing. Well almost he closed his book, but than re opened it to eat.
When dinner arrived, he closed his book to dish food onto his plate, turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, yams, and a couple of biscuits, Severus was starving since he had not eaten since six this morning. Popping his book open with one hand, eating with the other, when a voice pipped up from his right, "You do know Severus that it is quite rude to read at the dinner table."
Severus dared to ignore the old man but it was his first night home where Albus had attended and he refused to get stuck with rounds, so with a snap his book was shut and he placed it in his lap for the time being.
A squeak from his left informed him that Miss Granger also heard the headmaster's comments and closed her book as well with a blush on her cheeks embarrassed that she was being rude. Severus wanted to growl at the old man to tell him off that it was rude to interrupt someone who was in the middle of reading, but decided against it he needed to stay in his good graces for reasons later down the road.
Before dessert was served,
"Crackers!" Albus roared nearly in Severus' ear his eye twitched and he grabbed a hold of his fork tightly, the old man turned to him.
"Come on Severus" Groaning he set his utensil down grabbing a hold of the end of the cracker pulling it gently confetti popped out of the cracker and a vulture like top hat appeared. Severus remembered what had happened in Lupin's class when he was teaching about boggarts and found out what Longbottom's boggart was he pushed the hat aside towards Albus.
Hearing what the headmaster had to say about reading at the table, Hermione couldn't help the squeak that left her, she hated being rude, but this was dire research that she was doing.
After she closed her book, ate in silence, because once again Ron was monopolizing Harry's attention and if she tried to get a word in edge wise he would shut her down faster than a bludger takes flight.
As crackers were being passed around she grabbed one and went to look at the boys they were in the middle of trying to pull Harry's cracker apart. Sighing she left it on the table, 'Maybe one of these day's they will pick me first…' lifting her book up once again and burying her nose in it.
Severus noticed Grangers' cracker on the table seeing that his son was paying no attention to the girl in their group he really did hope he would grow out of that and the fact that she was once again reading.
Severus was not sure what came over him but he chalked it up to a Christmas miracle, grabbing a hold of the cracker on one end with an exasperated sigh "Granger."
She pulled her nose out of her book looking up with a curious glance at who was calling her name from her right side, looking up Severus Snape was holding out a cracker for her to pull. If she wasn't witnessing this herself she would have never believed it, but pure joy ran through her. He was holding the cracker that she was given, she did not hesitate to grab the other end and pull.
A purple smoke surrounded the cracker while a top hat popped out with a few chocolate frogs and other random goodies. Squealing softly, she always did enjoy crackers no matter if they were muggle or enchanted, this particular one had a top hat in it. She slid the top hat over to Snape, she was trying not to blush in the process, when he sighed, and lifted his own cracker. Handing over the entire thing to her, 'Did he really hate the holidays that much to not participate?' She wondered mostly to herself, giggling herself almost silly she slipped on the lion's mane that came in the cracker, quite appropriate I do believe.
Severus heard her squeal next to him, she grabbed some of the random goodies, when a top hat came into view from the corner of his eye, lifting his own cracker for her, the plan was to not participate but if he had to well so be it. The girl was giggling next to him, he chanced a glance over to his left he did a quick double take, not only was there a top hat waiting for him but Granger was wearing a Lion's mane, he damn near snorted.
When dessert popped up in front of him, distracting him from the situation, grabbing a bowl and dishing himself up some tapioca pudding his favorite at the moment and a couple of pastries.
In the middle of eating his dessert, looking about everyone was already wearing hats even his son who was in a white captain's hat, Severus grabbed the hat by the rim, flipping it onto his head. A trick that he learned at one of Lucius' galas it came in handy from time to time. While he finished his dessert the adult staff who had a few cups of spirits during dinner, since again it was the only time that they were allowed to drink openly in front of the students, they all started to sing and eventually leaving the table to dance.
Severus was getting tired of the music, the chatter, and the sheer annoyance of those around him and all he wanted was to be alone. There was a place that he enjoyed going to watch the snowfall over the grounds, for him it was one last serene moment before chaos of the school year ensued. Watching as Lupin had finally graced them with his presence, he was roped into dancing with Pomona, they were all waiting in a line, while Albus and Minerva were swirling around the room together.
Hermione sat in the corner with her chin in her hand and her nose in a book, taking bites of pudding in between pages, she realized that a certain potions professor was leaving the great hall with a smirk on his face and a devilish glint in his eyes. Looking at what the potions master was smirking at, it was Lupin who was in the middle of twirling professor sprout around.
Not helping the giggle that left her, looking around she couldn't find Harry nor Ron, 'Oh good another adventure that I don't get included in.'
Leaving the great hall, she was going to head up to the common room, when a blob of black crossed her vision, 'Wait what is he doing up here?'
Wondering if she dared to follow him, but curiosity was going to get the best of her. Taking a breath she followed the greasy bat of the dungeons up the sixth floor, he was heading for the Astronomy tower.
'Lupin has a handle on things.' Severus smirked as he grabbed a hold of his book, slipped out the doors of the great hall without another word he ascended the stairs to the place where he could watch the stars, the moon drift behind the clouds as the night sky became darker, and snow started to fall. The Astronomy Tower. Severus sat down on the balcony with his legs hanging from the side, leaning his head against the railing, he started to hum Requiem by Mozart.
Hermione found that Snape went up to the Astronomy tower, to sit and watch the snowfall; she had found him by his humming.
Her heart fluttered, learning that he hummed classical muggle music. She found an alcove underneath where he was sitting, she too watched the snowfall and took in the scenery that she wasn't able to earlier, and at night it was extraordinary. The stars were twinkling brightly, as the snow was building up on the school, when Snape had stopped humming.
"Cheers Black. Im sure we will meet soon enough."
A moment of confusion, 'What if what they were saying the other day at the bar was true? NO.' Shaking her head, she wasn't about to let her faith and loyalty stray.
Minutes passed, when she just enjoyed his humming and looking at the scenery of her favorite place in the world, Hogwarts.
"It's Requiem by Mozart."
Nearly squeaking he knew that she was there, but was grateful for the random information about his humming.
"You better get to your common room."
Hermione sighed, as she heard him get up from his seat, and hear the clicks of his shoes on the cobblestone flooring, she had a feeling that she would be humming that for quite some time. She left her spot on the floor in the Astronomy tower, heading back up to the common room, assuming that it was already after curfew.
Entering the common room, there were voices that were shouting at her.
"Hermione where have you been?"
"Nowhere just went to go see the snow."
"With Black around? Are you kidding me?"
She didn't miss the hypocritical statement that he Ron just blurted out towards her, but she felt Harry wrap her up in a hug.
"Alright Hermione I'll take a break from the gallivanting. If this is how you feel when Im out like this, I am so sorry."
Hermione smiled, glad that her best friend came to his senses, on his own. He was learning.
Severus heard footsteps following behind him, at this point, he didn't give a damn, he just wanted to spend tonight alone, but even now he either had Albus on his back or one of the students following him.
Rolling his eyes, he continued his trek, up the stairs, opening the glass double doors sitting down on the balcony, slipping my feet through the railing, and starting to hum Requiem, one of my favorites.
When the footsteps stopped suddenly, there were a couple of noises underneath him, on the lower level, he didn't care at this point, it was Christmas. Slipping out his flask, he took a deep swig, watching the light in Hagrid's hut click off, the snow falling over the quidditch pitch, but than there was that black blob sitting in the middle of the grounds.
"Cheers Black. Im sure we will meet soon enough."
He hated leaving the little spot of happiness, even if he had a student in his mist, he wondered if it was Harry maybe he could only hope, but he had a feeling it was another.
At least it wasn't Albus he would hate to have this one peaceful place ruined by the old man.
Checking his pocket watch it was already nearing eleven, sighing, it was time for whoever was with him to get back to their common room…'I wonder if its Lupin. Ha, that would be ironic since he just cheered Black.'
"It's Requiem by Mozart." Severus spoke out loud he wasn't sure if anyone was there anymore or not, but in case at least he could teach someone something for the time being.
A squeak.
'Ahhh so there is someone here.' Taking a moment to deduce the squeak he realized that it was probably Miss Granger, but why follow him? Shrugging off any questions, he just didn't have it in him tonight, he would have rather been at the Malfoy's.
"You better get to your common room."
Hermione woke up humming the song from last night, she was in a particular good mood this morning, having falling asleep to Requeim and to know that her friends did care for her, at least Harry did, he was going to stop being so mindless about some of the shenanigans that him and Ron get up to.
Crookshanks had crawled into bed with her at some point in the night; he was purring close to her tummy, petting his head, the grumble of her stomach made Crookshanks meow loudly.
"Alright alright I'll go get some food, but first presents."
Hermione grabbed her dressing gown, wrapping it around herself, and picking up Crookshanks, she luckily had the entire dormitory to herself, looking down she had several presents at the end of her bed, finding a box of chocolates she popped one into her mouth and headed to the boys dormitory.
Climbing the steps, not wanting to wake the boys but already heard the murmur of the two of them speaking. 'Good I won't be disturbing them then'
Knocking softly on the door, she heard one of them "Come in."
Smiling softly, she opened the door crookshanks had mischievously gotten into the common room's Christmas tree, and he kept some tinsel as his booty. Petting his head, she heard Ron protest his existence.
"Oi you can't bring that beast in here!" Ron dove for his bed, scrambling around in his sheets looking for his pet rat.
"Calm down Ron. Crookshanks is a good boy." She petted him several times, before plopping down on to Harry's bed noticing he had already unwrapped all of his presents.
"Oo Harry I see that Mrs. Weasley knitted you another sweater!"
"Yeah I can't wait to wear it…Ron why don't you wear yours?"
Ron scratched his head, "Well mum has made so many over the years…."
Looking down she noticed a broom handle that read, Firebolt.
"Wooaahh Harry who gave you that?"
Harry held up the immaculate broom, "I don't know there was no name."
"Harry."
"Hermione don't start. Harry's broom was broken during that last match he needs a new one."
"…but Harry you don't know who its from…"
"I know Hermione but I figure it was like first year you know?"
Hermione must have looked confused as she twisted her head to the side. She didn't remember anything about first year that was out of the ordinary, unless these two didn't tell her and that would explain a lot.
"Ron….I thought you told her in one of the letters…"
"I forgot?"
"Hermione the cloak…it didn't have a name on it as well. It said this was your fathers use it well. Not to mention the fact that McGonagall sent me my original broomstick as a present."
"Oh Harry. You don't know who sent you that cloak?"
"We think it was Dumbledore…" Harry started to play with his bedsheet not realizing that one of his best friends didn't know where the cloak came from.
"And you did know where your broomstick came from…"
"What if it was Lupin?"
"Lupin?"
"Yeah what if Lupin is the one that sent you the broom?"
"That would be a nice thought Ron, but wouldn't he buy himself some new robes if he had that type of money?"
"Harry promise you won't ride it yet! We don't know who its from!" Hermione emphasized on the matter.
"No way, Harry could I have a go?"
There was a screech sound from behind Ron, Crookshanks had jumped onto his bed, in search for Scabbers.
"GET THAT MONSTER OUT!" Several things happened at once, and all Hermione could do was watch. Crookshanks was pawing viciously at Ron's chest, where apparently
Scabbers was in his frocket of his pajamas, Ron had attempted to take the tuff of her cat's neck but Crookshanks pawed at his arm, claws extended.
"Hermione, you best take Crookshanks."
Hermione left the room, seemingly in minutes the Christmas spirit that filled her last night and this morning, evaporated from her. Heading back up to her dormitory to change and put Crookshanks up. Hermione dressed in cozy clothes today, some jeans and a large sweater, she would unwrap her presents later this evening just because it gave her something to do before bed.
Gathering her school work she went down into the common room, where the boys had started a game of chess.
"Hermione you know we are on break." Harry teased.
"I know but you know me I want to get it out of the way before term resumes."
"Yeah Harry you know she always has her nose in a book." Hermione huffed at the jab but continued her studying, as time passed they had skipped breakfast and by the time the grandfather clock chimed noon they were all starving.
Christmas morning arrived at the sight of a rain/snow storm, Severus padded around his room with his book and morning coffee, waiting for Naelby to come and join him with breakfast to open the obligatory presents under the tree.
Running his fingers through his hair, as he sat at his desk and decided to fill up some of Harry's journal, this would be the third one, 'Maybe when he graduates from Hogwarts he can have these as a present?' I pondered on that aspect, as a pop alerted him to Naelby's arrival.
"Merry Christmas Master Snape."
"Merry Christmas Naelby."
"I brought you some biscuits and gravy and sausages. "
"Thank you Naelby." Taking a sip of his coffee, "What do you think we will get this year?"
The elf wondered for a minute, "Odd socks from the headmaster is a given."
"Of course."
"Maybe a book from McGonagall?"
"What else?"
"Do you think you will get anything from Lupin? Or the Malfoys?"
"Im not sure Naelby there is only one way to find out."
They sat around the small tree that Naelby puts up each year; going through each of the presents that lay underneath, Severus let Naelby pick the first one, It was a red colored package that had dancing Christmas trees.
"This one is the headmasters!" Naelby spoke excitedly, Albus did send him his yearly socks that he never wore, and there was a drawer full of socks that he had gathered over the years that was proof of that. Moving on to the next few presents, Minerva sent him candy, Hagrid sent his fudge, Lupin actually did send him a gift one that he wasn't expecting a potion journal, of course his family sent him some fine whiskey, fruits from Cissa's garden and an I.O.Y letter from Lucius for the cigar next visit.
"That seems to be all of the presents Master Snape."
"Hmmm I do believe you missed one Naelby." The elf looked up at him confused; Severus pulled a black covered package from underneath the tree.
"How…?"
"This is for you."
"Thank you Master Snape." The elf wrapped the item around his neck feeling instantly warm. As they each popped a chocolate into their mouths, a tapping noise on his window alerted him to an owl.
"I bet that's from Draco." He was waiting for their daily owl back and forth, the poor boy is now realizing how everything worked back than and is now coming to terms that it will be happening again in the near future.
Opening the letter,
Good Morning Godfather,
Merry Christmas! I hope you received our presents! Thank you for my book I should have known that you had gotten it for me when we were in Diagon Alley that day. I hope Naelby is also having a fantastic Christmas and that you two are enjoying being back at Hogwarts. I can't wait to see you soon godfather, I have a few questions about some of the holiday homework.
Love your godson,
Draco.
Hermione sat in silence next to the boys, instead of working on schoolwork she was back at working on Hagrid's court case, 'I do hope I find a lead soon.' Her and Professor Snape have seem to gotten into a rhythm once again like they did last year, she would sit next to him, Ron would complain, and she would occasionally ask a potions questions either for fun or about the homework.
Eventually McGonagall excused herself, as did Hermione. Having been thinking about this for the past few hours, she couldn't let her best friend ride a broom that may be jinxed by the notorious Sirius Black. Ron may not care about his safety, but she did.
Walking out of the great hall into the entrance hall, "Oh Professor do you have a moment?"
"Is everything alright Ms. Granger?"
"Yes. No. I just have something that I want to talk to you about. It's about Harry." Her head of house raised an eyebrow at her, and ushered for her to follow.
Arriving at McGonagall's office, she made them some tea and biscuits.
"Now what is it that you wanted to speak about?"
Taking a breath, she had a gut feeling this may ruin their relationship, but she had to do it, and if they were really her friends they would understand.
"Professor, Harry received a worrisome present this morning."
"Oh?"
"Yes it didn't have a name it was an anonymous gift. Now Harry has told me that this isn't his first anonymous gift, but I do believe that with everything going on this year. I don't think Harry needs to be taking any chances."
"Yes…and why isn't he the one telling me this….?"
"Because he wasn't going to tell you, but I felt that it was the right thing to do…it could be jinxed."
"Mr. Potter and Weasley are very lucky to have you as a friend Ms. Granger. It seems you are the one that looks out for their wellbeing more than they." Hermione nodded as
she took a sip of tea, 'Yes but for how long…'
"Alright Ms Granger I will take care of it. Happy Christmas."
"Happy Christmas Professor." Hermione set her cup down and went to leave her office to head back up to the dormitory.
"I'll come with you Ms. Granger, it's best we do this as soon as possible. We don't need Mr. Potter doing something that he will regret." Hermione bit her lip and nodded, she was lost in thought as they climbed the rest of the stairs to head into the common room, she couldn't help the anxiety that was coming over her, she had no idea how the two of them would react once they were alone.
Entering behind their head of house, Hermione slipped over to her chair by the window, burying her nose so close to the book while she listened to the commotion around her.
"Happy Christmas Professor!" The boys chimed, trying to hide the broomstick behind the two of them.
"Ms Granger informed me that you received a broomstick for Christmas correct?"
"Yes ma'am."
"I hate to inform you Potter, but as your head of house I have to confiscate your broom until it can be tested and looked over for any jinxes or hexes. I'm sorry, but there is no if, ands, or buts."
As she turned to leave the common room, "Happy Christmas you three."
The boys than quickly turned to Hermione, who was beet red behind her book that she was pretending to read.
"Hermione what the bloody hell did you do that for?"
Hermione took a breath, snapping her book shut she stood abruptly, "Because Ronald I care about Harry and his safety. You want to encourage reckless behavior, I want to protect him." She hissed through gritted teeth, both boys took a step back, when Ron decided to rebuttal.
"I have a mind to rip your homework to shreds so that way you have to redo it all." Ron seethed, 'What the hell, why?'
"What would you do that for?"
"You don't get to get another Outstanding." Ron was walking over to her books and parchments.
"Ronald don't you dare."
"Why not Hermione? We won't win at quidditch, you won't get anymore Outstanding's. I think it's a win win situation." The ginger boy smirked, as he was trying to figure out what he rip to shreds. Hermione was trying to gather all her materials, Harry was trying to intervene, but Ron was pushing him aside.
"Ahhh look some potions homework, ancient ruins, oh and some charms thrown in. Oh isn't this your project? Well good luck rewriting it." Ron had taken the parchments,
Hermione didn't want to use magic on her friend it wasn't allowed, gritting her teeth she knew she couldn't fight back so she had to watch as Ron stalked over to the common room fire, and threw in each parchment as he made a snarky remark about it.
With that all of her Christmas spirit that she had dissolved, much like her and Ron's friendship.
Within a blink of his eye, his winter break was finished before it even started; school was back in session the day after next.
Over the course of the next month, Severus had heard that Harry had received an anonymous present of a Firebolt, but luckily, Minerva had taken said item from him and that the boy started to learn how to cast a patronous as well.
'So many things that I miss because I chose this life.'
The snow had turned into slush as Severus made his way down to the quidditch pitch, it was his team against Ravenclaw today, he was ready to enjoy watching his godson play some quidditch. He missed Harry's last game and resented himself for it, but he wasn't going to miss Draco's game, he climbed the stairs to his usual seat in the Slytherin column, and low and behold the headmaster was going to be joining him today, along with Lucius. 'Oh this is going to be fun.' Severus mused.
"Lucius, isn't this a surprise."
"Yes I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to make it but I thought I would surprise Draco and my oldest friend since we weren't able to share your birthday together." He hinted at the headmaster who had yet to say a word.
"So did you bring me a present?"
"What my person is not gift enough?"
"Shut up Lucius." The both of the barked out laughter as they sat together, ignoring the old man behind them.
"How has Draco been?"
"Grade wise or flying wise?"
"Both?"
"His grades are on track to become better it seems this year he is trying more in each of his classes, his flying? He hasn't stopped practicing Lucius. Maybe one day he could fly professionally…" Severus paused, realizing that he was talking about a future than none of them were sure of.
"I do hope so old friend. The times will be getting tough, and I want you there for him. If I am ever indisposed."
"You can always trust me to take care of my students." Dumbledore stated firmly, both men looked at the headmaster with raised eyebrows. This is what happens when you forget that the man who manipulates the hell out of you was sitting right next to them.
"Yes. I saw how you take care of the students last year who were stuck in a secret basement in the castle Albus."
"The board understood what happened Lucius. I do regret that you weren't able to make that meeting this summer, I think it was during one of the raids on your home that summer."
"Huh I think I now know who started the raids against my home…"
"Forget Lucius just watch the game and after we can go to my rooms and have a drink and we can bring Draco." Severus murmured under his breath so only his friend could hear.
The whistle blew, the game began, Severus watched out for Draco he was sitting at eye level with them, just watching for the small golden ball. When Draco zipped past the two of them, Ravenclaw had taken the quaffle and scored first, the Ravenclaw side cheered loudly while his snakes hissed and booed.
It went back and forth for a good hour before Draco had finally spotted the snitch, the Ravenclaw seeker, a girl called Chang, she was catching up to his godson, but he was faster with the broomstick he had.
"DRACO MALFOY HAS CAUGHT THE SNITCH SLYTHERIN WINS!"
Roars from around them exploded, Severus turned to Lucius shaking his hand.
"Lets go celebrate!"
The two of them took the stairs as if they were teens again, pushing each other out of the way and damn near tripping one another down and out of the tower. The two exited laughing, while the Slytherin team was cheering and jeering by them, when the two of them heard a voice from the crowd.
"DAD!"
Than the mini Malfoy came out of the crowd, his hair was completely ruffled, "I didn't know you were coming!"
"I wanted to surprise you…I think I did."
"It seems as if you surprised godfather as well!"
"Would you like to join us for a celebratory drink?"
"Yeah that will great, don't worry about them they will be celebrating all night."
"Severus…"
"Later Albus…I have company…"
The trio went down to Severus' personal rooms; they all lounged about, having started a fire, while he poured two tumblers of whiskey for the adults.
"What about me godfather?"
"Oh no not yet Draco. Naelby?"
"Yes master Snape?"
"Could you get Draco something to drink?"
"What would Master Draco like to drink?"
Draco sighed, "Oh alright, is there a way to get a butterbeer?"
Naelby winked at the boy, popped away, Severus' boots clicked against the cobblestones he handed the drink to Lucius. The small elf popped back in with a mug of his choice of drink, when Lucius spoke.
"Happy Early Birthday Severus!"
"Cheers."
"Now Severus we should make arrangements for that weekend for you two to come home to celebrate, Cissa is planning on serving your favorite meal and dessert."
"Oh Merlin, I haven't had my favorite since this past summer."
The three of them spent some time together before Lucius had to return home, but he would give his best to Cissa.
"I'll get in touch with you in a few days Severus."
"See you soon Lucius."
January slipped into February without any notice, as each passing year goes fewer people remembering his birthday, he did however make plans with the Malfoy's for that weekend to celebrate his birthday. However, when Albus got wind of that information he made sure he had rounds for the weekend to keep him busy and not to celebrate too heavily. Having apologized heavily to Lucius and Cissa hoping they didn't go out of their way to honor that day, promising that this next summer they could celebrate.
Hermione had her nose in an ancient runes book as she was going back and forth between her book, parchment, and charts. Eventually she noticed some shoes that were in her line of sight, she looked up to see that her friend and ex friend were standing in front of her.
Harry spoke first, "I got it back." He held up the broomstick gleefully.
"See Hermione there was nothing wrong with it."
Hermione sighed, "It doesn't matter Ronald, it could have been cursed, and now we know for sure that it isn't and Harry won't have to worry while he's flying around. He already has enough problems on the pitch. What about my schoolwork that I had to redo Ron?"
"Welp I'm going to take this upstairs…" Harry always tried to defuse the situations that Ron and Hermione got into.
"Harry can I take it?" Ron clearly didn't want to apologize about the situation that he put himself in, she had no plans of forgiving him any time soon.
"Sure." He handed the broom over to Ron, he watched as one of his best friend held the broom as if it could break at any moment.
When he disappeared, Harry turned back to Hermione, "Can I sit?"
"I suppose…" Hermione trailed off wondering what his intentions were, granted Harry was the good one and never accused her of anything, Ron on the other hand was the one that constantly put her down and accused her of things, but she stayed friends with him because of Harry.
"Hey 'Mione how are you getting all of this stuff done?"
"Magic Harry." She couldn't help but giggle at her own little joke, it even got Harry to crack a smile, she hadn't seen him with one in quite a while.
"Made you smile."
"But really Hermione, you are at your studies constantly it doesn't seem like you even get a small break for yourself…"
"Trust me Harry I am fine, I have been working hard this year. I want to know what classes I'm going to be interested in, in the future."
"Why don't you just drop a couple of subjects so you aren't running yourself ragged?"
"No! I could never do that Harry and you know that!"
"I know I just wanted to try." Harry chuckled; Harry picked up one her charts and began to try to study it.
"How do you even do this Hermione?"
"It is wonderful Harry, I wish you and Ron would be more open to learning about these subjects."
"I would love to learn Hermione, maybe we can set up a specific study time for us?"
"Really Harry? Of course we can schedule a time!"
"Are you sure you aren't too busy?"
"I will make time for you Harry."
Within seconds there was a mangled scream from up in the boys dormitory, the two looked at each and dropped everything to race up the stairs, to find Ron clutching his bed sheets.
"Ron, what is it?"
"LOOK AT WHAT THAT DAMNED CAT DID?!"
"Ronald!"
"WELL LOOK AT SCABBERS!" Hermione took in his bedsheets they were covered in blood…
"Ronald calm down, how do you even know that it was Crookshanks?" Hermione questioned as she folded her arms across her chest.
"Here." He handed her a tuff of what looked like Crookshanks fur.
"That doesn't mean anything Ronald!" Hermione bellowed back, she stomped out of the room and back down the stairs.
Hermione knew the truth that Crookshanks probably actually did eat Scabbers but that was in the nature of a cat, to chase and eat rats and mice.
Waking to birds chirping a happy tune, Severus was in the opposite mood. Having undressed the rest of himself in the middle of the night, he went to take a quick hot shower before the detention he scheduled it before breakfast, so that way he could go and enjoy the game, granted it was more for selfish reasons than anything else. He was not a man with a heart or so he has been told.
Turning the hot water on as it steamed up the bathroom, hanging up his fresh clothes on the back of the door so they would be wrinkle free. Slipping into the shower feeling the blazing water wrap around him like a trusty blanket, hearing the chiming of the bell for seven in the morning the student would arrive within the next fifteen minutes because most people did not want to piss him off so they tried to be early and sit outside his door mostly in fear.
Shutting the water off an immediate chill ran through his body, stepping out of the tub and dressing in his slacks and button down slipping his frock coat on but not buttoning it up, heading out into his classroom with his boots, slipping them on tying up the strings. Naelby had graciously left him a steaming cup of coffee on his desk, with some scones and jam to munch on for breakfast while the student finished their detention.
Severus checked his pocket watch it was seven ten in the morning there was an hour and half until breakfast and two hours before the game. When there was a knock on the door, 'Ahh ever so early to come greet the bat.'
"Enter." Severus announced since the student was in the O.W.L. potions class, he had them brew up some basic potions for the hospital wing, nothing to complicated or dangerous so that way he could leave on time.
After the student finished brewing the pepper up potions and bottling them, the grandfather clock in the corner of the room chimed nine in the morning.
"Dismissed." Setting aside the grading that he was doing standing from his chair and going over to grab his coat buttoning up his frock coat wrapping himself up to keep warm, checking to make sure he had everything before leaving his room in search of some real food in the great hall, he had blown through his scones.
There had been several big discussions over the past few weeks; Quidditch had been the big talk after everyone's last final, but Hagrid was also was on everyone's radar since he has not been in attendance to any meals for the past few days. Finding out that his pet was going to be executed because of what happened with Draco at the beginning of the school year, the date was still to be determined.
Entering the great hall with a dramatic swoop of his robes to get some breakfast for himself glancing over to the left of the room where his son was getting jittery and refusing to eat breakfast, he understood that feeling more than anyone, however his was more life or death anxiety. Sitting down grabbing some eggs, toast, and sausage to eat before the big game watching as the Gryffindors and the Ravenclaws were getting into the spirit of the game some of them were already leaving to the quidditch pitch to get in some extra practice before the actual game.
Hermione watched as Harry and Ron were gushing over the Firebolt, as she sat with a book in her hands, but she was excited to watch the game. When she spoke with Harry a few days ago, he was right, she hadn't taken time for herself, she had been in the corner with her enormous stack of books, at this point if any of them fell over no one would look.
She went into the bathroom, changed into some heavier clothes so that way she could be warm during the game. She snuck out, grabbed her book and went to spend some time in the library, by the time the boys came out of the common room, I would meet them down in the great hall for some breakfast.
The two hours passed quickly, I started to head back to the common room, when I arrived, I saw the boys coming out of the passageway.
Hearing Harry mutter, "You should really let up on Hermione, Ron, I mean Crookshanks is a cat after all…"
"What you are siding with her now?"
"Ron this isn't about sides, its about keeping the peace."
"If she would just act like what her horrible little monster did was horrible than maybe…"
Hermione could feel her heart flutter at Harry's words, 'You sweet boy.' Hermione waited for the pair to get farther down the staircase before she made her exit, going down the staircase she tried to yell to the two of them, but they didn't hear her.
Hermione descended the stairs watching, as everyone was ready for a good quidditch match today, even with the weather. Arriving in the great hall she caught up with Harry and her now ex friend Ron, "Hey Harry!"
"Hermione?! I didn't think you were going to be able to join us!"
"Remember our conversation? I definitely took it into consideration and well here I am."
"I'm glad Hermione; I have to go down to the pitch early because wood wants to get us to practice before the main game today."
Hermione sat down next to Ron to have some breakfast, she mostly kept to herself when the twins had come in and sat in between them, she was grateful.
After they had all finished eating, the three of them were leaving to the pitch with the twins, when one of the twins turned to her.
"Come on Hermione don't want to be late!" Hermione damn near squealed with being invited, Ron rolled his eyes but she didn't care.
"Hmm it seems that there is going to be two snitches on the field today…"
I ignored the passive aggressive comment, and continued down to the post. She wanted more than anything to let bygones be bygones but Ron wouldn't let go of the Crookshanks Scabbers debacle. She understood it was his favorite rat, but he was also over twelve years old…which was odd in itself those creatures aren't supposed to last more than three five tops.
"Ronald. Let's call a truce for today and celebrate Harry and the Gryffindor team, okay?"
Ron didn't say anything but just gruffed at her, like it was grudging acceptance.
"How are you two dealing?"
"Were fine Hermione, we've actually been taking bets and so far its going to be good. Seriously hope that our house wins though!"
"You two excited for the game today?"
"We are hoping to sweep the floor with Slytherin today with Harry and his new firebolt!" The twins spoke in unison, as they waved goodbye and went inside of the locker rooms.
Hermione went up into the stands, finding Hagrid waiting for them. 'Oh thank Merlin a real friend.'
"Hello Hagrid!"
"Hey 'Mione, Ron."
"Hey Hagrid."
"Whats the matter with you Ron?"
"Ron is upset because his rat is missing…"
"Your cat killed him 'Mione."
"Its in his bloody nature Ron, IF he did, you can't prove it, you haven't even found Scabbers body…."
"Doesn't Matter he did it…"
"Ronald, we called a truce…."
"Whatever…"
Hermione huffed; she wasn't going to be ashamed of her cat. The whistle blew and the game had begun, she attempted to find Harry as everyone flew around, the quaffle being passed back and forth than intercepted.
Boos from our crowd, cheers from the Ravenclaw team. She was so focused on the game she pretended not to hear Ron's remark.
"Pshh like you actually know whats going on…"
In the middle of eating his food, he heard Minerva's voice pipe up from behind, while she was sitting down.
"Are you going to watch the game Severus?" Looking over to the woman who donned Gryffindor colors for the match, he finished eating the bite he had taken.
"Yes…I do like to see what the other teams are up to. It helps mine greatly." Severus smirked at the witch when she swatted his arm, as the age-old argument lingered.
"Well I do hope that you sit in our box again Severus." Severus remembered the last quidditch match, where he had to carry Harry off the pitch, which was agonizing for him.
"Yes we shall see Minerva." Severus answered as he gobbled down the last of his breakfast, and went to leave the great hall to head towards the pitch.
Leaving the school, marching through the foot deep snow, slipping on the fingerless gloves that he had brought with him, feeling the frigid wind blow his hair around Severus mentally kicked himself for forgetting to wear his toboggan.
He was halfway down towards the pitch when he heard his name called from behind him, turning quickly on his heel a movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention staring at the spot until whoever was calling his name approached him.
"Ah Severus good of you to make it." It was Lupin; 'Strange I thought he was indisposed' Severus thought to himself keeping his eye on the black blob that appeared from the forest in the corner of his eye.
"Yes." Severus turned his attention to the pocket watch he popped out, wondering if he had time to go and investigate this animal before the game.
Lupin apparently took notice that he was distracted, "I'll save you a seat than Severus." The shaggy man continued his trek towards the quidditch pitch, while Severus turned back to where the black blob was but alas, it had disappeared. Lengthening his stride to catch up with the mysterious beast, his scarf whipped behind him as he followed the dog prints that had been left in the snow, mentally growling, he knew exactly who the enormous black dog was and it wasn't one of Hagrid's pets. 'Well I wonder what I get now for predicting that Black had used his animagus form to get onto the grounds. Moronic.'
Severus took careful steps making sure that when his boot hit the snow it made no noise he followed the prints in the snow until he reached the forbidden forest and the prints disappeared into the vegetation.
"Fuck! I had him!" Severus roared aloud to no one but the birds, who sprang away from the trees with the disturbance, pulling out his pocket watch to check the time and the game already started about ten minutes ago.
"Well Damn."
Sprinting back over to the pitch, the bottom of his slacks had become damp with the slush of the snow, but by the time, he arrived at the pitch Gryffindor had won the match by thirty points. The game had only last an hour or so, sighing deeply this was the first game of Harry's that Severus had missed since he started Hogwarts, and he felt guilt and betrayal course through him.
As he was hiking his way back up to the school, passing by the stadium he watched as the Gryffindor team put Harry on their shoulders and started to chant.
"SEVERUS SNAPE!" Severus turned to a screeching woman with four children in black cloaks. 'Oh merlin what has happened now…'
Severus stalked over to the five of them, "What is it Minerva?"
"I've just caught your snakes messing with my seeker…" Severus was outraged, not with the boys but with the headmaster he knew those creatures would be a problem on the school grounds, he said that he had spoken with them but clearly that was another lie.
"Its an unworthy trick Severus I thought you were better than this." Minerva chastised him and his snakes.
"No Minerva, it was a prank wasn't boys."
"Yes…"
"Severus! These boys will have detention and fifty points from Slytherin."
"What?! It was a prank!"
"Whether it was or wasn't I will be speaking to the headmaster about this incident!"
"Godfather!"
"Oh no young man you aren't running to your godfather for this one and yes your father will hear about this!"
"Minerva…."
"No. We shall discuss this with Albus later. You four are dismissed."
"Severus Snape, you are head of Slytherin, you need to be teaching your house responsibility."
Severus growled at the insinuation, "Don't tell me how to take care of my house, Minerva."
Minerva stomped away without another word, Severus turned on his heel to see the Gryffindor quidditch team chanting and hollering their victory.
"Potter for the win!" He was elated for his boy that he was finally fitting in, he had friends that he could rely on, but resentment towards himself and Albus filled him to the brim with frustration, thoughts of what Harry and him would do after he won a game, celebrate maybe? 'Who the fuck am I kidding. He probably wouldn't even want to be seen with me. I am the greasy bat of the dungeons, a git, and an asshole. It's better he is with them.' Severus pitied himself as he made his way back to his rooms for the evening.
A message to the headmaster needed to be delivered about what he saw, however he did not feel like meeting him face to face today, he did not need or want to see the satisfaction by that man for missing one of his boy's games. Severus ran his fingers through his snow-drenched hair as he entered the school to go and have a cup of warm firewhiskey in front of his fire while he wrote to the headmaster.
Hermione had changed out of her out clothes into her pajamas, grabbed some more of her muggle studies homework, grabbed her book on how British muggles lived, it was an easy class somethings were wrong, like completely off, but it was a class that gave her a moment of feeling at home. Grabbing a sugar quill and a blanket, she went back down into the common room where everyone was partying and celebrating the win for the quidditch game.
Having sat down in her corner, within a few minutes Harry had come over to sit with her.
"Hey 'Mione did you enjoy the game?"
"It was great Harry! You did fantastic; I saw that you were distracted by the Ravenclaw seeker."
"Shut up!" He gave me a slight push, than he took a minute to breathe, "You wanna get some food?"
"I can't Harry I've got this entire book to read and I need to re finish two essays! Anyways Harry after you left, it didn't fair well with the two of us."
"What happened?"
"Its fine Harry really, its just that he made a few snide comments…but Hagrid was also there!"
"Well if Scabbers hadn't been eaten I could give him some fudge flies he really did enjoy them…"
"Just like that Harry…please I'm fine, if you could bring me another sugar quill and some pumpkin juice though.
"Sure no problem, but im also going to bring you a sandwich you need something besides sugar." Harry left for a moment went up to Ron to have a small conversation while he made eye contact with her; she blushed and looked back down in her book.
Hours passed when eventually Professor McGonagall came into the common room,
"Yes yes its fantastic that we won, but I'm receiving noise complaints. Now you best be off to bed." She stayed until she saw all of her cubs go up to their rooms; she went back to her room but not before calling out.
"Go to bed Ms. Granger."
Hermione had gotten tucked into bed, when she heard a scream from the boys dormitory. The others were groggily waking up, as I rushed down the stairs to see Harry and Ron gathered around Percy trying to explain what was happening, when professor McGonagall came bursting back into the room.
"What in the devil is going on up here? I thought I told you to go to bed! I am also glad that we won, but Percy I expected more from you."
"Excuse me professor but this was not my doing, I was just telling them to go back to bed…Ron has had a nightmare."
"PERCY IT WASN'T A NIGHTMARE!"
Ron was in a tizzy and I just watched and listened going over to Harry and Ron for support.
"IT WAS SIRIUS BLACK!"
McGonagall pondered this for a second, "Weasley this sounds like a nightmare, how on earth would Black even be able to get into the common room?"
I spoke up, "Professor Maybe we can ask the portrait?"
McGonagall did just that, she went outside and spoke with Sir Cadogen. Our head of house returned visibly shaking with rage, "Which one of you wrote down the weeks passwords?"
Everyone turned to stare at Neville, who sheepishly raised his hand and muttered, "I did professor."
"Neville Longbottom, out of all the reckless things that you have done here at Hogwarts this tops them all. From now on, you can only enter the common room when someone else is with you, unless you can actually memorize the password. I will be informing your grandmother of this incident." McGonagall huffed as she stalked out of the common room to go and inform the headmaster.
Most of everyone stayed down in the common room that evening no one really wanted to be alone, while Neville sat in corner by himself being ostracized by the house. Hermione went over to him.
"I don't blame you Neville. Even others do."
"You're not mad at me Hermione?"
"A little…but it doesn't mean that I'm going to treat you like a leper. Maybe we can figure out a way to help your memory to help remember just one password?"
"Would you really help me?"
"Of course Neville you are my friend after all."
"Watch it Neville her cat might eat trevor…"
They all were waiting in the common room for McGonagall to come back and inform them if Black had been caught, it was just right before dawn before their head of house returned with not so great news.
"Black has escaped…again. From now on you all must travel with two more people."
Severus heard a banging on his door, checking his pocket watch it was one in the morning. Growling, he grabbed his robe and wrapped it around himself as he went to go answer his door. With an insult on his tongue, he whipped the door open. Minerva McGonagall was standing in front of him.
"What?"
"Severus I'm sorry about earlier…but its Black he got into the boy's dormitory."
Severus mentally growled, "What do I need to do?"
"If you could patrol the dungeons and the first floor than report to Albus."
Severus went to go get dressed to head out into the dungeons, he needed to explain to his snakes that they were not allowed to leave the common rooms until they cleared the school once again. First heading, to the common room to explain what was happening, than he was off to explore the rest of the dungeons, he was bound and determined to catch his ex classmate.
"I will find you Black."
However, he went through the dungeons and didn't find anything or anyone, so he moved to the first floor, but once again he didn't find anything.
"Damn he got away again…" Severus kept his wand out on his venture up to Albus' office, he bumped into Flitwick on the fourth staircase as he was searching.
"Any luck Severus?"
"No nothing Filius, you?"
He didn't say anything just shook his head and continued on his search. Severus continued his way up to the headmaster's office.
"Albus."
"Ahhh Severus….good any luck finding him?"
"No."
Tsk, Tsk,Tsk.
"Albus I warned you earlier about seeing Black on the grounds."
"No you did not Severus."
"I sent you a letter right after the game, did you not read it?" Severus looked over at Albus desk searching for his letter, but he saw Albus' hand hovering over a slip of parchment.
"I did read it Severus…"
"Okay but you didn't take pre cautions?"
"No. I didn't Severus."
"WHY?!" Severus barked at him realizing that the man sitting infront of him had bluntly put everyone's life at risk.
"Because at the time I didn't believe it was a priority."
"You didn't think it was a fucking priority." Severus scoffed, "Why the fuck am I not surprised."
"Language Severus." As soon as he finished McGonagall barged into the room with a solemn expression on her face.
"Oh Severus! I'm sorry I didn't know you were in here."
"It's fine Minerva. I was just leaving." Severus left slamming the door behind him.
Days passed as he waited for reply back from Albus, when a letter did appear from the headmaster, he announced to him that he wouldn't have to go any of the upcoming Hogsmeade weekends, that his time would be much better used here at the castle. 'Was that last bit a hint to his letter that he wrote him?' Severus pondered, as he put letter back down on his desk and continued to grade these abysmal essays.
Hermione had grabbed some of the law books and books by Newt Scamander, and she headed down to Hagrids. After the quidditch pitch he pulled her aside and told her that she could come down to his hut anytime, if she was feeling lonely and all.
She had been going down to his hut for the past few weekends when she found herself some free time to help Hagrid with Buckbeak's case, she was hoping this would all hold up in court, it worked for Newt it should work for Hagrid.
"Hey Hagrid!"
"Hey 'Mione! H'w 're ya?"
"It's been the same Hagrid. Harry has been more talkative towards me, Ron wont even look in my direction and when he does its to make a snide remark."
"Aww 'Mione it will get better, Ron will see that it's not your fault…I sent them a letter for them to come down later today, Ill talk to them, but what about yer work?"
"Some days are better than others Hagrid. With Christmas break I was able to get a few weeks ahead, which gives me more time to come help you and buckbeak."
"Thank ya 'Mione I appreciate ya helpin buckbeak and me."
"It's my pleasure Hagrid I think Im slowly figuring out what I like to do and what I want to be after I finish at Hogwarts!"
"What might that be?"
"I think I want to do research and development for potions eventually with the ministry."
Hermione had settled down after dinner with one of her books, she was about two weeks ahead which gave her a few weeks of down time to catch up on other things, and in general just taking a break.
She heard Harry's and Ron's voices coming in through the portrait door, 'I wonder if Hagrid really spoke with them about how I was feeling earlier?' She pondered as she listened in on their conversation.
"Oh Harry Hogsmeade next weekend!"
"Well Filch hasn't done anything with that one passageway yet…"
Hermione was incredulous; didn't he just promise me that he would be safer? She mentally growled at Ronald for being such a reckless influence on Harry.
"Harry." She seethed into his ear, as she had gotten up and set all of her books down and went up behind the two of them.
"Harry you promised me, you promised you wouldn't go back into Hogsmeade!" Hermione pleaded with him, as she avoided contact with Ron.
"Can you hear someone talking Harry?"
"Ron, she does have a point I did promise."
"And? She let her cat eat Scabbers…"
"Ron, that's are what cat's are known for!"
"Hermione haven't you done enough damage this year?"
"I protected Harry, even if you don't want to be a good friend and protect him."
"We consider each other family Hermione. I'm sorry that Harry doesn't consider you family."
Hermione didn't know what to do, but that comment hurt. She knew for a fact that Harry considered her a sister, she knew it was a blatant lie but that didn't mean it didn't hurt especially after everything with the broom…
She grabbed Crookshanks and ran up to the girls dormitory hiding in her four poster bed, hearing the girls gossip around her she pulled her curtains around the bed, ignoring the ones around her.
'Why does Ron have to be such a prat?!'
Hey y'all I hope y'all enjoyed the chapter! Leave a review and let me know what ya think is gonna happen the next chapter will be the last chapter for year three!
