A/N: I'm just so happy that this story is really taking off. It started off as just an outlet to deal with my depression but I'm honestly so proud of what it has become and I hope I continue to have your support. ❤️

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Thirteen wizards and four witches, all varying degrees of old, sat uncomfortably in the large boardroom where they routinely held their meetings. And then there was Severus who was by far the youngest wizard present and then there was Hermione herself who put on her best poker face as she sat beside him under the scrutiny of all the others present. She knew they viewed her as the very lowest of the low. Not only was she muggleborn, but she was the youngest person there and also female. Three strikes, she thought with just a touch of humor. The situation was starting to look bleak again. But one look at the strong, powerful wizard beside her and her spirits lifted. They could do this. They had evidence and both she and Severus were very persuasive people. She hoped that was enough.

It had to be.

Once it was clear that everyone had arrived and was settled, a man with a long white beard, bald head and spectacles stood up. "I realize that it is irregular for us to be meeting again so soon, but one of our members has petitioned for us to overturn our most recent ruling and given that we took the last vote in his absence, it is only right for us to hear his appeal." There were some murmurs of disagreement, but the older gentleman didn't falter, instead frowning at those assembled, "Enough grumbling, please, let's act like we have some shred of decency and professionalism. Master Snape, the floor is yours."

Beside her, Severus stood, his face was a blank mask as he looked at the faces of everyone present. And then he began in a tone of voice much like the one he used when he was a professor at Hogwarts. "It has come to my attention that earlier today this board of directors and department heads made a ruling on how to handle the possible ethical issues in regards to my employee and I consenting in a romantic relationship. You opted to transfer Miss Granger to a different department presumably without considering other options. I am here to ask for you to overturn this decision and have brought several reasons as to why a reassignment is not only unnecessary but potentially detrimental to the furthering of the years of hard work done by the Department of Research and Potions Development. I have brought Miss Granger along to help me outline those reasons as well as giving her a chance to have a voice in the decision making. After all, this is her livelihood that you all are toying with." The last part was said with some edge in his voice and the witches and wizards shifted guiltily in their seats.

With that he looked to Hermione and together they began to outline all of their findings in regards to employees dating their bosses and the minor retaliation or reactions given by the Board of directors. They also went over their current project dealing with providing treatment for victims of the Cruciatus curse and explaining how they hope to help not only the lower end of the spectrum; those who experience tremors and shakes, but also those who have lost their minds due to the curse. Their argument began quite poignant as they were both victims of the curse firsthand and had experienced the after effects themselves. Most of the witches and wizards present had never been in such danger save for the former Head Auror who spoke in the beginning. A man who Hermione learned was named Charles Ogden. When their presentation came to a close he was the first to vote in their favor. Then, one by one, other reluctant hands joined but the decision to overturn had come down to a single vote. The closeness made Hermione uncomfortable.

When the meeting adjourned Hermione was surprised to see the bald wizard making a beeline for her and Severus. "Is there someplace we can meet privately? I have some news that would interest you both."

Moments later the three of them were back in Severus's office and Mr. Ogden began to speak, "They're jealous. The Minister of Magic plans to do a lot of revamping in the coming months. The word is that departments that aren't showing signs of progress, efficiency or effectiveness are going to see some major cuts in the future. The Potions Research and Development Department has improved exponentially since you've been at the helm Severus," the elder wizard complimented. "And then you hire Miss Granger here who's brilliance has already started to shine. A fact which almost didn't work in your favor," he pointed out.

"Meaning?" Hermione couldn't help interjecting.

"That as much as you all were outlining the need for you to stay in the department, you also outlined how weak the department is without your involvement. You need to be prepared because I'm afraid this fight is only just getting started. Whatever hoops they'll have you two jump through in the future while the Minister is contemplating this revamp are going to be extremely difficult."

At this point Severus's brows ticked slightly in irritation and Hermione could see the wheels turning in his head. "So they view our relationship as a political move…?"

Mr. Ogden nodded. "Precisely."

"Ah, so separating us makes sense. And they almost got away with it. You're right Charles, this isn't over. Thank you for your forewarning and your support," he said, rising from

His seat and shaking the older man's hand. "If you'll excuse us, Hermione and I have much to discuss."

Ex-Head Auror Charles Ogden nodded. "Right. Well take care you two. Frankly, I'm happy for you both. Not just department wise, but your relationship. How anyone could see that article and not recognize it's the real thing is beyond me."

Hermione was warmed by that speech and smiled at the wizard as he walked to the door. "Thank you Mr. Ogden." He gave her a nod and a smile and then exited the office, leaving Hermione alone with her raven haired beau who seemed incredibly pensive. Worriedly she joined him at his side, hugging him from behind. "It's going to be alright Severus," She cooed, resting her head on the back on her much taller companion. "Whatever they throw at us, we'll be prepared."

He brought his hands down to cover hers that wrapped around his waist. "I know that love. In fact, I plan on throwing some things right back at them."