Following Your Heart
Summary: One snap decision in the face of tragedy can change the fate of two people drastically and a society in the long run.
AN: Hello my lovely readers. :) While waiting for my muse to give me the next chapter on another fic, I was given this one. Ugh, muses! Anyway, this will be about 6-7 chapters long and more tags will be added as needed. I'll also change the rating if need be when it becomes necessary. Oh, and some canon will be followed but most will not. ;) The characters listed are the main ones with plenty of others popping in here and there. :) For the most part, Severus and Hermione will be the ones the story is about. Not sure if there will be any romance in this one or not, if it happens then it will be more of a side note. Now, onto the start of this adventure...
Addendum: After having two reviewers try to correct me on the 'missing in absentia' part of this story, I am adding here to warn all future readers…this is a work of fanfiction and therefore I take literary license when using absentia. I KNOW in real life it takes years and so on and so forth, however, we are in a fictional world with fictional characters and I use this in my own way. In my world, missing in absentia, doesn't take that long because it's what my muses wanted me to use. If this bothers you then you might want to skip this story. I don't plan on changing anything.
Disclaimer: I do not own anything and make no monies writing this.
F~Y~H
1 - Sorcerer's Stone
Hermione couldn't believe she was at a magical school! Although she had met many. most seemed to not care for her. She had hoped this school would be different, that she would finally make some friends but it seemed it wasn't meant to be. She wanted to fit in so badly but how could she when no one would give her a chance. Then she met a boy looking for his toad. His name was Neville and he was quite shy. She decided to sit with him after they found his toad. He had listen to her prattle on about what she had learned about Hogwarts and had even contributed to the conversation a few times, expanding on a few things she had asked about.
When the train finally reached the school they all disembarked and loaded into boats after being herded by the largest man she had ever seen. He seemed friendly enough and was called Hagrid. The boat ride across the lake was so completely magical, fairytale magical, that Hermione couldn't take it all in quick enough. She loved the way the castle glowed in the night. It seemed warm and welcoming but intimidating as well. It was so huge!
After walking into the building, they were greeted by an older woman who explained what was about to happen and Hermione felt her nerves spike. This was it; she would soon learn what her main traits were. Where would she be sorted? She was fairly certain it wouldn't be Slytherin and she really didn't want to be sorted there if her encounter with Draco Malfoy and his two friends were anything to go by.
Hermione was ecstatic to be sorted into Gryffindor and was welcomed with loud cheers and clapping. She was in awe when the Headmaster stood, made his speech and then had the food just appear on the tables. It was wonderful. She may have only made one friend, but here still felt like home to her. This was where she belonged.
When she walked into the dorms in Gryffindor Tower, she wondered if her eyes would ever be the same again. She loved the colors and with the fireplace sporting a small fire, it felt comforting to her. She couldn't wait until classes would start and she could sit in front of it to do her studies. When she went up the stairs to their rooms, she learned she had two roommates.
After getting a great night's sleep, Hermione rose early. She got ready for the day and headed down to the Great Hall for breakfast, eager to get the day started. When she got there not many others had arrived yet, but there were a few. She sat down at the table and pulled out Hogwarts: A History to reread it. While she was caught up in the book the other students slowly trickled in. Once the majority of the students were in the Hall, breakfast appeared on the tables.
Hermione piled her plate full and dug in after putting her book away. When she saw a brown haired boy sit next to her, she looked over and smiled. Harry was his name and the red head beside him was, Ron, she thought. She didn't really care for him, he was rude and obtuse, not two traits she usually associated with. Harry, however, seemed nice enough if a bit shy. She turned to tell him good morning when Ron spoke.
"Look Harry, she is able to get her nose out of a book." He had said while laughing.
Hermione made a face and was about to respond when Harry came to her defense. "Leave her alone, Ron. There's nothing wrong with enjoying a good book." Harry had said, then turned to her with a smile.
"Thank you." Hermione said, giving him a smile in return and they turned to enjoy their breakfast.
F~Y~H
Over the next school year, Hermione threw herself into her school work. She wanted to prove to everyone that she knew what she was saying and belonged there. She felt like an outsider around most of her classmates, except for Harry and Neville. They tried to include her in whatever they were doing when they could. She appreciated their efforts and it helped to make her feel not so alone.
She loved her classes, even Potions. Professor Snape was such a sourpuss! She was sure the man's face would crack if he ever gave a nice smile. He would rather call on anyone else but her, even though her hand was waving in the air; letting him know she knew the answer. Then when he would, he would put her down for knowing the text! Or take points from her because she was trying to help her fellow house mates. Her potions were always at least acceptable but he rarely praised her for it. But let one of his Slytherins do something right, no matter how small, they were given praise and points! It wasn't fair but she was determined to prove to Professor Snape that she was good enough to get top marks!
Hermione liked all her professors, even Professor Snape, and excelled in all her classes. Through the months her friendship with Harry and Neville grew. She would help them with their assignments when they asked, which was quite often but fortunately in different subjects. She didn't mind helping them though; they at least would do the majority of their work whereas Ron…he could suck on a rock cake! He was so lazy. He expected her to do his homework for him. She had thought him cute when she first met him but that went out the window when he showed his true colors because she refused to do all his homework for him. Then his rudeness increased and she tried to ignore him as much as she could.
Well, that was until the Troll incident. Hermione had gone to the Halloween feast in good spirits until Ron had insulted her, yet again. She had left in tears only just hearing Harry and Neville get on Ron's case for what he had said. She had run to the girl's bathroom to cry. When she got there, she realized it wasn't the one she thought it was. This one wasn't used or if it was, not often by the looks of it. Then she met the resident ghost, Moaning Myrtle. She was quite annoying actually. But while Hermione was dealing with her, she missed the mountain troll entering. After dodging the creature a few times, Harry and Ron came running in and saved her, defeating the troll.
When the dust had settled and the excitement gone, Hermione had lied to the Professors for them. She hadn't wanted them to get into trouble for coming to look for her. Because of this, she and Ron smoothed out a bit. He stopped being as insulting and rude to her as before and she didn't ignore him quite as much. It would never be an actual friendship between them but maybe civility was possible. Harry and her though, they became even better friends. She helped him with any schoolwork he needed and he stood up for her against those who tried to bully her, which she appreciated very much.
The next thing Hermione knew, she's following Harry and Ron to the third floor corridor, trying to talk some sense into them. The three of them had discussed Quirrell and the Sorcerer's Stone and Hermione had wanted them to talk to their Head of House, at least, before charging off into unknown peril but the boys wouldn't listen. So she went with them to make sure she wasn't needed. They found the Cerberus asleep this time and snuck past it to go down the "hidden" hatch door. She was right in that they would need her. If it hadn't been for her quick thinking, they would have been killed by Devil's Snare! She had also helped when she solved the potions riddle, quite clever that one.
She had been terrified to let Harry continue on alone but she also couldn't just leave Ron unattended. He had sacrificed himself after all to solve the chess game. Hermione later found out that Quirrell was the one after the stone and not Snape, she was relieved. She liked the snarky potions professor and hadn't wanted him to be the bad guy. Sure he was strict but he had to be with his subject, too many things could and had gone wrong for him not to rule his class with an iron fist. Hermione was relieved and scared when the professors showed up to assist them. Dumbledore had continued on to check on Harry and found him unconscious but alive. After receiving a thorough talking to by Professor McGonagall, Hermione was just glad to not get expelled for what they had done. She was relieved when Harry returned to the dorms healthy and whole.
Before Hermione knew it, it was close to the end of term. She was proud that she had made some knew friends and had done well in all her classes. She had written to her parents every week and had told them all about her life at Hogwarts, except the part about the Stone. She had a feeling they wouldn't appreciate her deliberately putting herself into danger, no matter her reasoning. She always looked forward to their letters. It was two weeks before school would end when she didn't receive her custom letter from them. This disappointed Hermione but she just figured they had been swamped at their clinic and hadn't had time yet or were too exhausted to write.
The next week though, Hermione's world was rocked to its core. A nasty explosion in her next to last potions class had caused her to lose her eyesight. She was rushed to the hospital wing where Madame Pomfrey had healed all her wounds but told her, her eyesight might never return. She had done all she could and even St. Mungo's wouldn't have anything new to try. They would just have to wait to know if the effects were permanent or not. Hermione had been excused from the rest of her classes, since there were only a few days left but she refused. She made herself a walking cane, like the muggles used, so she could get around when Harry or Neville couldn't be there to guide her. She was determined to continue her life despite what had happened.
When the end of the year feast came about, Hermione was nervous. She didn't know if her parents would pull her out or not. She needed to stay, Harry would need her help and she didn't want to give up her new found friends either. She loved the school and knew she would figure out a way for her to continue learning. She just knew there was at least one spell out there that would help her; she just needed to find it and learn it.
Since Headmaster Dumbledore had need to leave the school before the year ended, Deputy Headmistress McGonagall gave the end of year speech. It was lovely and Hermione enjoyed listening to her. She had already learned that her hearing seemed to be getting better the longer she went without sight. Of course, there were those students who harassed her and picked on her for her new disability but Hermione was determined to not let them win. She had done enough crying over this past year and she would have no more. At least, not from some silly words said from dunderheaded ignorant fools. She would show them.
When the feast was done, Professor Snape approached their table and told Hermione to follow him; the Deputy Headmistress wanted to speak with her. Hermione slowly got to her feet and used her cane to guide her to meet Professor Snape at the end of her table. He walked beside her quietly but kept watch over her progress to ensure she wouldn't run into anything. Severus was impressed with the young witch, even though he couldn't show it. She had not allowed what happened to her to get her down. If anything, she seemed to grow even stronger.
When they reached the gargoyle, Snape gave the password and guided Hermione onto the steps. After guiding her into the office, he turned to leave when McGonagall asked him to stay.
"Please have a seat Ms. Granger." Minerva said.
"Thank you ma'am." Hermione replied, taking a seat and awaiting the reason she was summoned.
"Severus, please stay. This involves you as well." She told Snape before he could leave.
"Very well." Was his reply, knowing she wasn't really asking.
"Now, Ms. Granger, may I call you Hermione?" Minerva asked the petite young witch.
"Of course, professor." Hermione answered. What was this all about?
"Thank you. Hermione, I'll get right to the point then. Since you were injured here at school and we haven't been able to contact your parents, I'm going to send Professor Snape with you to your home. Someone from the school needs to explain what has happened and, where normally I would do that, the Headmaster has been called away and I must stay here in his stead." Minerva paused to make sure the young girl understood.
"Of course, professor. But I don't understand why my parents haven't answered your attempts at contact. I hope nothing is wrong." Hermione said, a bit of worry creeping into her tone.
"Many things could be the reason, lass, I wouldn't worry just yet. A school officiate should escort a student home in such circumstances. This is why I am sending Professor Snape to escort you home. He would be able to better explain what happened and find out how they wish to proceed."
"Oh, okay. Sorry to be an inconvenience sir." Hermione said, tilting her head his way.
"Nonsense, it is my duty and I will see it done. Will you be ready by noon tomorrow?" Severus asked her.
"Of course, sir. Shall I meet you down at the doors?" Hermione asked, grateful for his neutral tone.
"That won't be necessary. I shall come to the Tower to help you with your trunk and then we will walk together off the grounds." Snape answered, watching her relax minutely.
"Very well then, I look forward to seeing you again at the start of next term Hermione." Minerva told her, dismissing them.
Severus rose and touched Hermione's elbow to guide her out of the office. He was amazed at how well she was dealing with her situation. Most students would have been having a meltdown by now, but not her. She was holding her head high and he respected her for it. She had even finished attending her classes, listening intently and, of course, still knowing the answers to the questions asked.
Severus had hated having to pick on her as he had but with what he had been sensing and "hearing" lately, he could not afford to show any sort of appreciation for her intelligence. She was a muggle-born and a Gryffindor, two strikes against her in the eyes of those who could make his life hell. If he was correct in his suspicions, then he would be dealing with the Dark Lord again soon. So he had done what was expected of him. He had cut her down every chance he got, made fun of her any way he could and refused to acknowledge her brilliance. It had killed him to have to be so harsh but with so many eyes on him…yeah, this part of his life sucked.
At least at the moment he could show her some kindness. She deserved it after the past year she has had. Severus was curious of how her parents would take what had happened to her, why had they not responded yet to Minerva's correspondence? He guessed he would find out tomorrow. Hopefully all would go well and Ms. Granger would be allowed to return the next term. It would be a shame to let such a bright and brilliant young witch lose her magic due to circumstances out of her control and her parents' inability to accept the innate dangers of being magical in a magical world.
F~Y~H
The next morning, Hermione got ready for the day and went to breakfast with her friends. She was surprised when Ron included her in his invitation to Harry to visit the Burrow over the summer. She thanked him but said she didn't know if her parents would allow her to. After breakfast, both boys walked Hermione back up to the Tower. They needed to get their things and she needed to be there for when Snape arrived. When the time came, they all wished each other a good summer and the common room suddenly became quiet.
At noon, the portrait opened and Snape walked in. "All ready Ms. Granger?" at her nod, Severus inquired, "Is your trunk still in your dorm?"
"Yes, professor, my apologies. Everyone was so busy with their own things I didn't think to ask anyone to bring mine down." Hermione answered.
"That is fine. I will just go get it and we will depart." Severus told her.
"Thank you Professor." Hermione said.
After shrinking her trunk down and tucking it into a robe pocket, Severus headed back down and gently took her elbow. As they exited the portrait and started down the hall, Severus shortened his stride to make it easier for her to keep up with him. Once outside the gate, he asked her if she had ever apparated before. At the shake of her head, he went on to explain what to expect. When she told him she understood and grabbed his arm in a death grip, Severus smiled and apparated them to her home.
The house was quiet, too quiet. When he questioned her about it, she told him they were probably still at their clinic since she wasn't expected for another few hours yet.
"Is there a way for you to contact them and let them know you are home?" Severus asked.
"I could call there but if they're busy with a client it could still be a bit before they got back with me. Would you like me to do that?" Hermione answered.
"Actually, I would rather be the one to speak with them. If you could tell me the number then I will make the call and inquire to their time of arrival." Severus told her. Hermione gave him the number and he dialed it. What happened next would change both their worlds forever.
F~Y~H
F~Y~H
Hermione could only hear her Professor's side of the conversation but she was confused by his words and his tone. What was going on to make him sound so alarmed? Were her parents alright? She started worrying and couldn't wait until he would hang up so he could tell her what was happening.
Severus took a few moments to gather his thoughts after finishing the call. How in the bloody hell was he supposed to tell this young girl that her parents were dead? How does one tell anyone such news? Should he just blurt it out? Should he try to word it in such a way as to tell her gently? Well, he had noticed this past year that Ms. Granger generally did better when someone was upfront with the truth. So, he figured, he'd just tell her straight up what had happened; rip the bandage off quickly, so to speak.
"Ms. Granger, may I call you Hermione?" at her nod he continued, "Let's sit." Severus said while guiding her to a sofa and carefully setting her upon it.
"What's wrong Professor? What's happened?" The young witch implored, wanting to just get whatever he was to tell her over with.
"I'm afraid I have some rather bad news." Severus started and watched her head tilt his way. He continued in a gentle voice, "It would seem the reason your parents haven't returned Professor McGonagall's letters would be because they were killed by an intruder last week. I am so sorry Hermione." Severus finished, watching her closely.
Hermione sat there stunned. That would explain why she hadn't received a letter from them the last two weeks. They were dead. Wait, her parents were dead! What was she going to do now? Where would she live? Who would take care of her? When her breath started speeding up, she felt the couch dip next to her and a hand rest on her shoulder. She looked up towards his face and asked the questions running through her mind.
Severus took a moment to consider her questions. And fired a few back at her in return. Did she have any other relatives? Would they be willing to take her in? Did any other family members know she was a witch? When Hermione answered him, Severus didn't like what he heard. It would seem the rest of Hermione's family was not on friendly terms with her and none of them knew she was magical. Severus didn't like the idea of sending such a bright and promising young witch to family who would ridicule her, bully her and very possibly keep her from attending Hogwarts any longer.
As he sat there observing her, Severus realized that she would need a magical guardian since her parents were no more. But who would that person be? He didn't want her going to just anyone, not with what he was afraid was about to happen. She needed someone who could protect her, guide her and help her continue her education in the magical world, someone…like him.
Severus Snape sat speechless at that revelation. He wanted to take her under his wing and help her flourish; help her learn how to defend herself in whichever world she chose or both if she wanted. He wanted to be able to encourage her for a change. Yes, it would have its risks with him being a spy and all but he could make it work. The sixth sense he had about the Dark Lord coming back was just starting to tingle, maybe, if he took her in now, he would have time to train her. Help her learn how to use her other senses to defend herself from any attack. He could state his case to Minerva and she could help him. Dumbledore would be furious with him, which brought on a dark smile. It would be worth it for that alone, Severus thought.
He needed to speak with Hermione first though to see if she would agree. If she said no, then he would respect her wishes and find the next of kin who would take her in. BUT, if she said yes then he was looking forward to making her as much of a Slytherin as she was a Gryffindor. Well, only one way to know her decision.
"Hermione?" Severus asked, getting her full attention. "I have a suggestion on how to handle this, if you are interested."
"Yes, of course, Professor. What have you come up with? I need all the help I can get at the moment." she answered, her voice wavering a bit.
"Hear me out before you say or decide anything, alright?" he asked, wanting to make sure she heard both suggestions. It would only be fair for her to know all her options before deciding anything. At the nod of her head, he continued.
"First, I could contact your next of kin and speak with them about taking you in. I would explain about your nature and Hogwarts. It would then be their decision whether or not you were allowed to return next term or at all." Watching her nod her head and then seeing her eyes widen before she shook her head, Severus told her the second option.
"Second, I could magically adopt you. You would become my ward and I would have control over where you went to school and everything else." He paused here at her shocked look, letting her speak.
"But sir, you don't like me. Why would you offer such a thing? I don't understand." Hermione asked as confusion laced her voice.
"It's not that I do not like you, Hermione. There will be some things I will share with you if you agree to this. Understand though, I have never disliked you, I just, I am not allowed to show any kindness towards any house really except for Slytherin. Also, even if you were taken in by another relative and they allowed you to go back to Hogwarts; you would still need a magical guardian. The school could become that guardian or someone else. The choice is yours, think carefully." Severus explained.
Hermione thought for a bit before asking, "Is the school the magical guardian for many students? I've never heard of such a thing. Why would I need one now?"
"The school is actually the magical guardian of several students, mostly those who do not live with their biological parents. A magical guardian is needed to make decisions for a minor in the magical world when no parents are around. It is not something that is written about or advertised but it is not an uncommon thing." Severus told her.
Hermione nodded her head, it made sense to her. But why would Professor Snape offer to adopt her, magically or otherwise? So, she asked him.
"Sir, please don't think I'm being ungrateful or rude but, why would you adopt me? I'm no one and now an orphan. I understand the school, basically, magically adopting those who need it. That actually makes perfect sense to me but why would You, of all people, want to be saddled with me?"
"Because you have great potential and I could help you blossom into a powerful witch who could take care of herself, eyesight or not. I see a lot of me in you Hermione and I don't want you to become ostracized or tormented due to your situation. Not only do you have no sight, but you are now an orphan. As much as it pains me to say it, in the wizarding world, those things are not looked upon kindly. I could help keep you from that and assist you in learning how to defend yourself using your other senses. I would be allowed to encourage you instead of ridiculing you." Severus answered; impressed with the questions she was asking and truly hoping she would choose him over any other option.
"Alright, let me see if I understand this correctly. You want to magically adopt me so you can help me to defend myself, to make sure I'm allowed to return to Hogwarts to continue my schooling and so you can encourage me instead of putting me down all the time?" Hermione asked, wanting clarification of what he had said and was offering.
"Yes. Also, you could very well pick up traits from me as well. We are talking of a magical adoption. You would most likely get at least one trait from me. What that trait would be I have no clue. It differs from person to person. Plus, there will be much we will have to discuss if you agree to this but I will do all in my power to do everything I have said and there will be quite a few things you will learn and will have to keep to yourself about me. The choice is yours and yours alone. I will respect whatever that choice is." Severus answered.
"Will I live at the school with you or up in the tower? Will I have to change houses if I choose you? What do I call you if I go this way? And do these traits I could get be physical or mental?" Hermione fired off, wanting as much information as she could get so she could make the right decision.
"During the school year, you would choose where to stay. You could live with me in my quarters or you could stay in Gryffindor Tower. During the summer, we would be staying at my home in Cokeworth called Spinner's End. No, you will not be changing houses if you choose me. As for what to call me, well, outside of school and behind closed doors, Severus will be fine but in the classroom I will still be Professor Snape. The traits can be either, we will not know until after the adoption is completed. Then it could still take upwards to a week before anything is known. Anything else?" Severus answered then asked.
"No, not at the moment. Well, actually, just one more question. May I take a little time to think this over?" she asked him.
"Of course, but I will need an answer before we leave here." He told her. She nodded her head and leaned back into the sofa to contemplate her future.
F~Y~H
Severus took this opportunity to check out the house. It appeared as if nothing had been disturbed. Why was everything still here? Shouldn't her family, friendly or not, have come to clean it out? As he walked around, checking each room, window and door, he noticed a piece of paper on the front door. Opening the door to see what it was, he saw it was a notice. Hermione was being given a chance to claim the house as hers before the lawyers would consider her missing in absentia and allowed any other family members to touch anything. Her chance to claim was about to expire in two days' time.
Severus frowned as he shut the door. As far as he knew no one had tried to contact Hermione about this but she had been in a different world so they wouldn't know where to send any formal paperwork unless they had connections to their world. He really hoped she chose him. He couldn't explain his need to adopt her, to take her under his wing, to have her in his life. It's not like his life would be uncomplicated if, no when, the Dark Lord came back because he was pretty sure it was only a matter of time. The despot wasn't killed all those years before; no, he was defeated, not dead. She would be in danger when anyone found out about their relationship but he could also twist the truth around to satisfy his needs when called into question, so he wasn't too worried about that aspect.
After seeing that everything was as the Granger's had left it, Severus went back to the living room to await her decision. He was pleased to see her deep in thought, giving the situation its due gravity before deciding. She really was quite the intelligent witch and he wanted to be able to show her the respect she deserved. He wasn't sure if she would ever have his love but he wasn't dismissing that either, which was perplexing to Severus. He just knew he couldn't ignore the instinct to take her in and his instincts, his true instincts not his ego, had never led him astray.
Hermione felt her professor's presence when he entered the room. She had been deep in thought considering all he had told her. What did she want to do? Did she want to take a chance on her extended family? Did she want Hogwarts to be her magical guardian? Or did she want Professor Snape to adopt her? It would be a risk either way. Which way would be better for her? Which decision would make her happiest during this awful time? When she searched her heart, mind, soul and magic; she found herself leaning towards giving her professor a chance. Why? She didn't know but it just felt the best alternative.
"Professor?" Hermione quietly called out.
"I am here" Severus replied.
"I think I've made my decision." Hermione said. When Severus remained quiet, she continued, "I believe the best choice for me at this point in time is to choose you, sir." She finished; apprehension clear in her voice.
"Very well, if you are sure about this. Once I adopt you, there will be no changing your mind later." Severus informed her.
Hermione nodded her head and said, "I am sure. Thank you, Severus, for being honest with me about all the choices before me. I appreciate it. Not many consider someone of my age able to decide such things on their own. To know what they want to do."
"You are welcome and I am pleased with your decision. Now, there is a notice on the front door saying you have two days to claim this house as your own before your extended family will lay claim to it and you will be declared missing in absentia in the muggle world from here on out. Do you want to keep the house?" Severus asked her and as she shook her head, he asked, "Is there anything you wish to keep before we leave?"
Hermione nodded and told him what she would like to keep and what could stay. For the next few hours, Severus went room by room with her and collected what she wanted. He conjured some boxes to put her things into. He collected all of her stuff in her room, since she preferred what she had and then continued to gather books, pictures, various knickknacks and a few other sundry things. Most would stay with the house but she was selective in what she wanted. The only pieces of furniture she asked for were her father's antique desk, her mother's sitting chair and the china hutch. After gathering everything she wanted and shrinking the boxes, Severus took Hermione's arm and apparated them back to Hogwarts.
When they reentered the grounds, Severus led them up to Minerva's office.
F~Y~H
F~Y~H
"Enter" Minerva called out. When she glanced up after the door to her office closed, she frowned briefly at seeing Ms. Granger return with Severus before schooling her features to a more neutral mask.
"Severus, I'm sure you have an explanation as to why Ms. Granger has returned with you?" she asked with a raised brow.
"I do." Severus answered then went on to inform the Deputy Headmistress what they had learned. When Minerva rose from her desk and sat next to her favorite cub, pulling her into her embrace, Severus continued.
"After explaining what options Ms. Granger has available to her, she has made her decision." Severus paused. When Minerva cocked her brow at him, Severus gave a small smile and continued.
"It would seem Ms. Granger has chosen to be magically adopted…by me." Severus informed her, waiting for her to realize what he had just told her.
When it sunk in just what Severus had said, her head snapped up to meet his eyes. Seeing the calm confidence in his return stare, she nodded her head slowly.
"You are sure this is what you want to do? Both of you?" She had to make sure they both understood what this undertaking would entail.
"I am quite certain. My mind and heart are content with this decision." Severus answered her, his gaze never wavering and his voice strong. Minerva gave him a small nod then gently squeezed Hermione to hear her answer.
"After Professor Snape was kind enough to explain my choices, I took some time to consider all the information given. I realized that the best option for me was to have the Professor magically adopt me." Hermione told her, her voice steady and sure.
"You do realize, lass, once he adopts you, it is final? Your name will change from Granger to Snape and you most likely will get some traits from Severus?" Minerva wanted to make sure the young witch understood the gravity of her decision.
"Yes ma'am, I understand. I still wish for Professor Snape to adopt me. I feel he is the best option for my continued schooling here at Hogwarts as well as my happiness all around. We had a detailed discussion when I told him my decision and before that. He wanted to make sure I would know what him adopting me would entail." Hermione said.
"Very well. I assume you want to do this as soon as possible?" Minerva asked, looking to Severus. At his nod, she got up and went to her desk. She looked through a drawer and pulled out several parchments. When she motioned for them to join her, Severus took Hermione's elbow and guided her to a chair in front of the desk.
"Here are the parchments needed for this to happen. Would you like to read them to Ms. Granger or would you rather cast the spell?"
"I will leave that up to her to decide. Hermione?" Severus said.
"What spell?" Hermione asked, her interest piqued.
"It is a spell that can be cast onto any parchment or book that will read the contents of the page to the caster and only the caster will hear. It is an easy spell to learn and it will be what you will use next term to attend your classes." Severus answered.
"Then the spell please." Hermione told them, a bit of excitement in her voice despite her dire situation.
Minerva and Severus shared a small smile at her eagerness to learn and Severus taught her the incantation. After handing her the parchments and making sure she cast the spell correctly, Minerva caught Severus' eye. Motioning for him to lean towards her desk so they could speak quietly, she asked him, "You're really sure this is what you want to do Severus? You know Albus will be furious when he returns and learns of this."
"I am well aware of the responsibilities I am taking on as well as Albus' unhappiness that I am doing so, Minerva. I feel this is what needs to be done and will deal with his scorn when he returns." Severus informed her.
"Alright, lad. So long as you know what lies ahead of you. I, myself, think this is a wonderful thing for you to do. I know in my heart this is the right decision for the both of you but it will have its problems." Minerva said.
"I am well aware it will not always be an easy time, we will both have to learn to coexist with each other but we will deal with whatever problems together. She is a strong and intelligent witch and has proven to be more mature than her classmates. And, I hope, she will be able to come to you if she doesn't know how to approach me?" Severus queried.
"Of course she can. My door will always be open to her and to you also Severus." Minerva replied, making sure to look pointedly at him. Severus gave her a slight nod in acknowledgement of her offer. Before any more could be said, Hermione asked where she needed to sign.
Severus handed her a quill and guided her hand to the space for her signature then added his afterwards. Minerva added her signature as witness and the parchments rolled up and disappeared.
"Well, that is done. Now Ms. Granger, er, Ms. Snape, if you ever need anything, my door is always open to you." Minerva told Hermione.
"Thank you Professor. I appreciate it very much." Hermione replied, feeling truly grateful to have these two adults in her life at such a tragic time in her life. As the new family rose to leave, Minerva walked around her desk and pulled Hermione into a tight hug.
"Oh lassie, I am so proud of how well you are handling all this. Know that it is alright to breakdown and there are those of us who care about you." When Hermione returned the hug, it took all of Minerva's control to not break down in front of her. After they had left, Minerva sat down hard in her chair and let the tears slide down her cheeks. She hated what had happened to Hermione but knew that Severus would be a good surrogate for her. He had a tough exterior but inside, he had a big heart.
F~Y~H
F~Y~H
Once out of the castle and past the gates, Severus put his arm around Hermione's waist so he could apparate them to Spinner's End. When Hermione had regained her equilibrium, Severus showed her to her room. He had larger rooms upstairs but thought it best to give her the empty room on the ground floor. If she decided she wanted to change rooms, he would accommodate her but only when she felt comfortable enough to request it.
After opening the window and casting a few spells to clean and do some minor repairs, Severus helped her unpack her belongings before leaving her to settle in. He knew the reality of all that had transpired the past six hours had yet to truly hit her and it may not for a day or two yet but he would be there to offer her comfort, the best he could, when it all came crashing down.
After fixing some tea, Severus sat in his favorite armchair and sighed. It had been a whirlwind day for him as well. He didn't have the loss to deal with but he did have a ward now to take care of. As he thought over the day, he knew he wouldn't change the decision he made. It was the right one and, although he was unsure how to proceed, he knew he would do his best to make a home for her. He'd give her time to adjust before he would start teaching her the spells she would need to know and helping her hone her other senses. They had the summer to acclimate to each other away from any public scrutiny, he hoped it went well.
F~Y~H
Hermione sat in her new room in complete silence and stillness. Her mind was busy trying to comprehend what all had transpired that day. She had lost her parents and her childhood home but had gained a magical guardian and a new home. As she sat there, she wondered when it would all come crashing down on her, when she would grieve her losses. She appreciated Prof…no, Severus, treating her as an intelligent being instead of a dunderhead. She was also beginning to feel the whole of what he had given her. She now had someone who would take care of her and see to her education. Yes, she knew it would be weird for a while but also realized that she really didn't know the man.
She allowed her thoughts to wonder what it was going to be like being his ward and sharing living space with him. She knew in class, he was strict and intimidating but at her home, he had been understanding and gentle with her. Such a contradiction he was. She knew most people showed one side of themselves for everyone to see and often kept the rest for a select few behind closed doors.
After an hour or so, Hermione rose and started learning her new room. She had had Severus unpack everything and set it up for her. She liked that her new room had scents of her old one and of her parents. Of course those scents wouldn't last but it was comforting at the moment. It helped her to feel as though she still had a connection with them. As she sat at her father's desk, the tears started. She didn't try to stop them, there was no need. It was a natural healing method of the mind and soul. She just let them fall as her mind went back over the memories she had. They were gone to her but never lost. She would hold her parents in her heart forever.
When she had silently cried for a time and the tears had started to slow, Hermione decided a cup of tea would be nice. As she opened her door, she remembered to grab her cane. Making her way to the living room she felt a soothing presence nearby.
"Severus?" she spoke quietly, amazed that her other senses were already trying to compensate for the loss of one.
"I am here. Do you need something?" Snape asked her, watching her use her cane to guide herself around the room.
"Could I have a cup of tea please?" She asked him, her voice a bit rough from nonuse and from her tears.
"Of course, have a seat and I'll fix one for you. How do take yours?" He inquired; glad to see she wasn't a blubbering mess. He knew of some adults who wouldn't handle the situation with so much grace.
"Black with one sugar please. Thank you" was her reply.
"I will be just a moment. Do you require anything else? Food perhaps?" Severus asked, realizing they had missed lunch.
"No thank you, tea will be fine. I'm not very hungry at the moment." Hermione told him.
"Very well but I will expect you to eat at least a small amount at supper." Severus informed her, realizing she probably wouldn't have much of an appetite while she was grieving.
"Yes, sir. I will try." Hermione told him with a small smile.
When Severus returned with her tea, he made sure her hands had a solid hold on it before releasing the cup. She took a tentative sip and sighed. They spent the rest of the evening in a comfortable silence, both taking the time to just get used to being around the other.
F~Y~H
Over the next couple of weeks, the two found their routine. The good thing was they were both quiet people and enjoyed reading. Usually they would end the day reading in the living room while enjoying a cup of tea. During the day, Hermione would study whatever books Severus gave her and would listen intently when he would explain various things she would ask about. She did have her days when her emotions would be more prevalent than others but slowly, they were becoming fewer and fewer.
Fortunately, Hermione was a logical person so working through her feelings was a bit easier than others may think. She missed her parents dearly but Severus had stepped up when needed and was filling the void they had left behind. He would never replace her parents but joined them in her heart as a parent figure. Hermione actually appreciated that he wasn't the coddling kind; it would have only prolonged her misery. He wasn't brusque with her but he wouldn't tolerate wallowing in self-pity either, which really helped her to come to terms more quickly with what had happened and start moving on. She doubted the pain would ever truly go away but hoped it would become manageable in time. She threw herself into studying to help keep her mind from dwelling on what had happened. She used this time to not only learn to live with Severus but to practice using the speech spell, In Quietam Vox Legere. She wanted to have it down before school started so she could keep up with her classes.
Over the summer, Severus worked on the spells to cast on her cane. He wanted her to be able to use it as a weapon as well as a shield. He put a strong repelling charm on it first then worked with the text reading spell to customize it to let her know what was around her. It took quite a few tries to make it where she wasn't startled every time it spoke but to also make it where it would speak quietly for only her to hear. It was like a whispering voice in the back of her mind by the time he was done, always speaking but not overriding any other conversation or thoughts. Severus gave her ample practice through the summer too. He had managed to also spell her cane where it would recognize anyone who approached her, so long as she said their name aloud once for it to learn.
Hermione was surprised and very pleased with the trouble he went through for her. She very much appreciated knowing her surroundings and those surrounding her. It would be weird at first; always stating someone's name but eventually she wouldn't need to for the cane to announce the persons around her. If she didn't know the person, the cane would tell her that it was a child or an adult approaching her.
Severus enjoyed watching the young witch adjust to her new life with amazing ease. She mastered her cane quickly and was eager to learn whatever he was willing to teach her. He knew she was like a sponge but had no idea just how much she truly craved to know; how much she reminded him of himself at her age. It was like she couldn't get enough. Anything he gave her to read would be done by the end of the day, unless it was a very thick tome, then it might take two days. She had even learned how to make the spell speed up in its reading to match the level she had been at. She was a quick study on most things too. Potions was a bit tricky for her to do but thanks to the spells she was able to follow instructions as well as any seeing student would. He was quite proud of her. Children really were quite resilient beings when given the chance.
F~Y~H
Just before it was time to return to the school for the new term, Severus sat Hermione down to ask her what she wanted to do. Would she stay with him or go to the Tower? Did she want to take the train to school or apparate with him? When she told him she wanted to be in the Tower, since she would see him every day, Severus vocalized his approval and understanding of this decision. Then she said she wanted to apparate with him. She wasn't sure she was ready for the hustle and bustle of the platform for the train. Severus was relieved she was feeling confident enough to stay in the dorms but told her that if it ever got to be too much then she would always be welcome to change her mind and stay with him.
As they were getting ready to apparate to the school, Severus was stopped in his tracks just as he was reaching for the door. She had stunned him and he couldn't breathe for a moment. When he cocked his head to the side to glance at her, he saw her realize what she had done and become nervous. Smiling gently at her, he laid his hand on her head and waited to see if she would backpedal or continue forward.
"Papa, will we stay at the school during holidays?" Hermione had asked him, only realizing what she had called him after she had said it. When she took a moment to think about it, she liked calling him that. It felt more natural than Severus or Professor Snape when they were alone. She hoped that she hadn't offended him by doing so though. When she heard only silence she started to worry. Had she overstepped a boundary? Did he not want her to call him that? Then she felt his hand gently lay on her head and smiled.
She could tell from his gesture that she had just surprised him, not offended him. So she voiced her concern to make sure she wasn't jumping to conclusions. As she turned her head his way, she asked him, "Is it alright if I call you papa?"
Severus still needed a moment before he could answer her. He never thought such a simple word could turn his world upside down in such a wonderful way. His heart had stuttered and his brain had blanked for a moment. He was amazed how good that one word made him feel. It filled his heart with warmth he never thought he'd feel again. Maybe there was hope for him yet, he thought; then answered her.
"It is fine, Hermione. I am just surprised to hear you call me that is all. I do not want you to feel you have to. You know I will never replace your parents and would not ever try to. But if you are comfortable with calling me Papa then I have no problems with it. Just remember, in the classroom, you will need to call me Professor Snape."
"Thank you. It feels right to call you my Papa. I know, sir, you would never try to replace my parents but you are my parent now and it seems too strange to call you by your given name or title. I will remember to call you Professor Snape when in class but would very much prefer to call you Papa outside of class." Hermione told him, her face serious and calm, her voice strong and sure. Severus was blown away. This slip of a girl had wormed her way into his heart without him even noticing. He then bent down to kneel in front of her and pulled her into his arms to give her a hug. When she returned the hug with force, he was reminded why he had taken her in in the first place.
After hugging her for a few minutes, enjoying the warm feelings she was invoking in him, Severus pulled away and held out his elbow for her to grasp. Once out the door, he apparated them to the school and guided her to his quarters. Just because she wouldn't be staying with him, she still needed to know how to access him after hours if the need arose and he needed to add her to his wards.
F~Y~H