Melissa avoided the common room for about a week once they all returned to
school. She often sat by the lake doing her homework and concentrating more
then ever before. In her classes, her teachers noticed a dedication that
she had never displayed before. Although pleased to see a student so
focused, Professor McGonagall was also worried to see her once social
student ignore her peers.
The shrewd professor observed Melissa for months, hoping to see an improvement and be able to pass it off as normal teenage moodiness. When she saw none, however, she decided she must take action of some sort. After much internal debate, dealing mostly with pride, McGonagall descended to the dungeons to ask the girl's uncle for help.
Minerva took a deep breath and knocked shortly on Severus' office door before opening it. She stepped into the chilly office to find Severus grading papers. Severus looked up from his work after a moment. He looked mildly surprised to see the Transfiguration professor in the dungeon.
"Can I help you, Minerva?" Severus asked, returning to the stack of papers.
"No," Minerva replied shortly. Severus looked up again. Having caught his attention, the woman continued, "You can help your niece."
"What's wrong with Melissa?" Severus asked with a frown.
"Haven't you noticed?" McGonagall sounded surprised.
"Get to the point," he snarled, "or get out. I have work to do."
"She's been quiet, Severus. Not as social as usual. As if she's brooding."
"The girl has a lot to brood about, Minerva."
"Of course, I realize that the loss of her parents is hard, but Melissa hasn't been like this all year. It's all begun this last week."
Severus was silent for a moment before replying softly, "That is not all she has on her mind."
"What do you mean?" Minerva snapped, sounding annoyed.
"Of course Dumbledore has told you the circumstances under which I chaperoned some twenty students out of the school?"
Minerva nodded and replied, "Of course Dumbledore told me, Severus but how would Melissa know about that? Unless." She let the sentence trail off, and looked at Severus once again. His grim expression confirmed her suspicions.
"I see then," Minerva replied tersely. Her mouth was set in a thin line.
"If there was something I could do for her," Severus stated after a moment, "I would. However, nothing comes to mind."
"Well, if there ever is anything I can do," Minerva said, "let me know."
Severus raised an eyebrow at this. Minerva made a disgusted sound.
"Don't flatter yourself, Severus; I'm not doing this for you. Melissa is a sweet girl, and doesn't deserve any of this," Minerva stated huffily before sweeping out of his office.
Once she was gone, Severus sat back in thought. Christmas was fast approaching, and he had noticed Melissa's sudden lack of conversation skills. He wanted to do something for her, something beyond a nice present. The problem was he had no idea what.
That night after dinner, Melissa headed out to the lake. There was still no snow on the ground as it was late November, but the sky looked as if it were threatening a storm. Despite the chill in the air, Melissa had left her warm cloak in her dorm. Sitting down on the bench by the lake, she pulled out parchment and a quill. It was time she wrote Angie. After an hour, she looked at the finished product.
Angie,
I'm sorry I haven't written in so long, I've been busy. How is everyone doing? I can't believe we're going to be apart for Christmas, this will be the first time. It will be lonely without all of you.
The reason I'm writing is unbelievable, but I have to tell you. I've been putting it off for months because I haven't really wanted to believe it's true. Wishing it away doesn't work, though, so it's time to face reality. I'm getting married, Angie.
Before you start screaming and announcing it to the world, you have to know that this isn't a normal engagement. It's not a choice either of us, Drew and me, made. The issue was forced upon us. I can't tell you the circumstances in a letter, but hopefully I can see you this summer. Then I can tell you everything.
Could you tell everyone else for me? Show them my letter, give them my love. I wish I could be back at Salem more now then ever before. It's funny how homesick you can get.
And, Angie, you'll come to the wedding won't you? I'll need you there. To hold my hand, perhaps even drag me down the isle. I miss you.
With Love,
Merry Christmas,
Missy
Folding up her letter, Melissa stared out at the lake. She shivered, noticing how cold she was, but did not move. Instead, she stared out across the lake. I wonder what Angie will do when she gets my letter. Will she think it's a joke, or will it just make her worry more than before?
Suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder. Melissa started, and whirled around, her fiery curls bouncing around her face. Looking up, she sighed in relief.
"Drew! You scared me!" Melissa exclaimed. She attempted to smile, but faltered when she saw his face. His dark eyes were unreadable, and his face was a careful mask to hide his emotions. Melissa bit her lip, waiting for him to say something.
"You shouldn't be out here without a cloak," Drew said at last, reaching down and pulling her to her feet, "you'll get sick."
"I'll be fine," Melissa snapped, jerking her arm away from him. A few snowflakes began to fall as they stared off. After a moment, Melissa tore her gaze away and shivered.
"Let's just go inside, all right?" Melissa asked, starting to walk away. She stopped as Drew reached out once more and placed his hand on her elbow. Sighing, she looked over at him.
"Drew, I'm cold. Let's just go!" He didn't seem to be listening, though. After another moment, he nodded.
"All right, little Missy."
"Don't call me that."
"Why not?"
"Mama used to call me that," Melissa said softly, cursing the tears that came to her eyes. Drew reached out and stopped her once again.
"You miss her, don't you?"
"Of course I miss her, you idiot," Melissa replied coldly.
"No, I mean more. You miss her more than you did before.."
Melissa sighed, looking down at the ground. She watched a few snowflakes float down to the ground and melt almost instantly. He was right, she did miss her mother. She would have been able to accept everything much easier if only she had been able to talk to her, to write her, anything.
Melissa nodded, a few tears sliding down her face. She angrily brushed them aside, but as soon as they were gone more fell. I hate crying in front of him. I hate that he always seems to know what's wrong Melissa thought bitterly. She heard him step closer, and put his hand on her shoulder.
"Missy?"
Melissa looked up at Drew, and instead of seeing the careful mask, she saw his concern and sympathy. She let him gather her into his arms and wrap the cloak that he was wearing tightly around her. Still clutching the letter, Melissa wrapped her arms around him and cried against his shoulder.
Holding the cloak tightly around Melissa and himself with one hand, Drew gently stroked her hair with the other and simply let her cry. When her breathing became more even, he chanced a look at her. Her head was still resting against his shoulder, but she was looking up at him now. Cautiously, Drew wiped away any trace of tears from Melissa's face.
Melissa took a shaky breath and closed her eyes. She was considerably warmer now, and couldn't help but feel safe in Drew's embrace. Drew slipped an arm around her waist, still looking at her.
"Melissa-"
"Call me Missy-"
"-I have to tell you something."
"What?" Asked Melissa slowly, opening her eyes to gaze at him. He finally looked away, taking a deep breath.
"Why don't we go inside and talk?" He said instead.
"Alright, let's go to the Owlrey, I have a letter to send."
Drew nodded and began walking, still keeping her under his cloak. Melissa let him lead her, but sent him curious glances every few seconds. Drew was resolutely avoiding her gaze as he trudged along the grounds.
When they finally reached the doors to the Entrance Hall, Melissa slipped away from Drew reluctantly. Although it was much warmer inside the castle, it was still warmer next to Drew. They walked along the Halls silently for a moment before Melissa turned to Drew.
"What was it that you needed to tell me?"
"It's...it's about the night that your parents-"
"-Drew, can we not talk about-?"
"-no, Melissa, there's something about that night that I have to tell you."
Melissa stopped to turn and stare at Drew. She took a deep breath before giving him a signal to continue.
"Melissa, I should have told you this before. I was there.that night.."
Melissa stared at him in shock.
"You.you saw them.?" Melissa let her sentence trail off.
"No," Drew whispered, stepping closer.
"You were there when they were..?"
Drew simply shook his head.
"You kill-"
"-no!" He exclaimed, grasping her shoulders. Melissa stared up at Drew with wide eyes, not understanding what he was trying to tell her. She shook her head to show her confusion and he continued.
"Melissa, I took you away."
"What do you mean?"
"That night, I was the one who took you from the house. To your aunt's."
Drew waited with baited breath. He expected her to cry, or to be angry. He waited for her to hit or scream or curse. To his surprise, she did none of that. She turned away and began walking. She seems to be walking away from me a lot tonight Drew thought vaguely before walking after her.
When he caught up, he fell in step beside her. He didn't look at her until they reached the Owlrey. Her face showed her every emotion. Her confusion and pain were showed clearly along with shock and something else he couldn't recognize.
Melissa quickly chose an owl and tied her letter to its leg. She sent it off and watched it fly away before turning to leave. When they reached the Slytherin common room twenty minutes later, it was deserted. They walked across the room silently.
Drew turned to go up the stairs to his dormitory when Melissa called his name softly. He turned around, looking at her expectantly.
"Yes, Missy?"
Melissa stepped forward and looked up at him.
"Thank you," she stated quietly.
"What?" Drew asked in surprise. He hadn't expected that at all.
"Thank you for saving me that night. They would have killed me," Melissa replied quietly before she turned and ran up the steps to her dorm to go to sleep. Drew stared after her a moment before slowly walking up the stairs and going to bed himself.
Three days later, Melissa woke early in the morning. She rolled over in an attempt to go back to sleep. Sighing, she finally threw her covers off and climbed out of bed. She picked out her clothes quietly so that she wouldn't wake any of her dorm mates. After showering, she got dressed and sat at a vanity in the bathroom.
She decided to do her hair because she had time to kill. Fishing some bobby pins out of one of the drawers, she set to work. In fifteen minutes, her hair was pinned up like her mother had taught her that summer. Looking in the mirror, she couldn't help but notice how much she looked like her mother with her hair put up like that.
After a moment she walked downstairs to the still empty common room. In the far corner she noticed something she had never seen before-a piano. It was handsome and carved out of cherry wood, looking as if it had just been polished. Melissa ran her fingers over the ivory keys and played a bar. She was pleased to see that it was in tune.
Melissa ran up the stairs quietly and ran into her dorm where the other girls were just waking. Pansy Parkinson and Blaise Zabini were talking from their beds. Vivian pulled her pillow over her head in an attempt to go back to sleep. Melissa grinned impishly, and jumped on the lump in the bed that was Vivian.
Vivian shrieked and sat up quickly, throwing Melissa off her. Melissa landed against Vivian's pillows, chuckling softly. Vivian looked around wildly, and her mouth hung open when she saw Melissa.
"What did you do that for?" Vivian asked indignantly, smacking Melissa with a pillow.
"It's time to get up," Melissa replied sweetly, climbing away from her. A few pieces of her hair had fallen out of the pins, but she didn't bother to put them back. Vivian was sending Melissa a death glare, but the redhead simply laughed. Pansy and Blaise were also laughing, though trying not to. The sight of the blonde girl looking so furious was funny.
Melissa walked to her trunk and threw it open. She began ferreting through it, and finally found what she was looking for at the bottom. She stood up holding onto a music book that had belonged to her mother.
"What's that?" Blaise asked curiously.
"A music book, I noticed the piano in the common room. I haven't touched a piano since." Melissa stopped.
"Since what?" Pansy asked.
"Since.since I left America," Melissa responded.
"Oh," both girls replied. Melissa turned and walked back downstairs. She flipped through the pages absently before picking one out. It had been her mother's favorite, and she had been forced to play it until she knew it nearly by heart.
Melissa sat at the bench and began to play. It took a few moments for it all to come back, but once it did she was completely engrossed in her playing. The notes flew through the air, and Melissa felt as if she were releasing her every sorrow and joy into the music. When the song was over, she took a deep breath. It felt good to play again.
When she turned around, she was surprised to see half of Slytherin house standing around. She blushed furiously when she noticed they were all staring at her. Why didn't I hear them come in? Melissa wondered as she bit her lip. She had never liked playing in front of an audience; normally she would only play for her mother or Angie.
"I didn't know you could play the piano," said a third year boy she didn't know.
"That was really good," Pansy told her, sounding amazed.
"What song was that?" Blaise asked.
"Uhm, Moonlight Sonata, by Mozart," Melissa mumbled.
"You should play more often," said Draco, throwing an amiable arm around her shoulder. Noticing her discomfort at being stared at, he added, "Why don't we go down to breakfast? I'm starved."
Melissa nodded and she, Draco, Drew, and Vivian walked down together. They sat at their table and began to pile food on their plates. As they began to eat, the owl post came in. After a moment, Melissa noticed that an owl had landed before her. She reached out to take the letter, but paused in horror when she saw the tell tale scarlet envelope: a Howler.
Who would send me a Howler? She thought in shock. The owl had flown off as soon as she had removed the scarlet envelope, as if knowing what would happen. Uncle Severus? Melissa thought, looking up at him. He was talking with Professor McGonagall, and Melissa couldn't think of anything she had done to anger him. Besides, Severus would rebuke her in a much more subtle way if he needed to.
"Who sent you a Howler?" Drew asked at her side.
"I don't know," she answered.
"I'd open that before it explodes," Draco advised her.
"Yeah, he'd know," Vivian sniggered.
"Shut it, you," Draco growled playfully.
"What do you mean?" Melissa asked, forgetting the scarlet envelope.
"Draco refused to open one that his mum sent him for a bad test score last year," Vivian explained with a giggle when Draco glared at her, "and it exploded. On top of being berated in front of the whole school, he had a detention for causing a fire."
Melissa laughed and decided she'd better get it over with. Bracing herself, she slid her finger across the seal to break it. She opened it cautiously, and waited for the chaotic shouts to fill the air. What she heard instead confused her. It sounded like a beat was being clapped. Then, a voice filled the air, although it didn't sound angry like expected.
He went away and you hung around
And bothered me, every night
And when I wouldn't go out with you
You said things that weren't very nice
Melissa's jaw dropped open, but before her shock could wear off, three voices began singing.
My boyfriend's back and you're gonna be in trouble
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You see him comin´ better cut out on the double
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You been spreading lies that I was untrue
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
So look out now cause he's comin´ after you
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
(Hey, he knows that you been tryin´)
(And he knows that you been lyin´)
He's been gone for such a long time
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
Now he's back and things´ll be fine
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You're gonna be sorry you were ever born
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
Cause he's kinda big and he's awful strong
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
(Hey he knows I wasn't cheatin´!)
(Now you're gonna get a beatin´!)
(What made you think he'd believe all your lies?)
(Wah-ooo, wah-ooo)
(You're a big man now but he'll cut you down to size
(Wah-ooo, wait and see)
My boyfriend's back he's gonna save my reputation
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
If I were you I'd take a permanent vacation
(Hey-la, hey-la, my boyfriend's back)
Yeah, my boyfriend's back
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Look out now, yeah, my boyfriend's back
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
I could see him comin´
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
So you better get a runnin´
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Alright now
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(La-day-la, my boyfriends back)
My boyfriend's back now
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Know he's comin´ after you
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Because he knows I've been true now...
By the time the song was over, Melissa was laughing so hard tears were running down her cheeks. Most of the other students in the Great Hall were also laughing, looking around to see who had received the Howler. Drew, Draco and Vivian were also laughing, but looking curiously at Melissa.
"Who sent it, Melissa?" Vivian asked.
"A-A-Angie.and H-Heather.and Libby.." Melissa managed to state between fits of laughter. She finally managed to control her laughter. She noticed that another owl had landed in front of her. A letter was attached to its leg, and she pulled it off.
Missy,
We got your letter, and decided that you sounded a bit depressed. Not that you don't have a reason to be, God knows men are jerks and we'd be depressed if we were getting married, too. Angie just yelled at me for saying that, but it's the truth and I'm always truthful.
Missy laughed, and so did Vivian, who had stood up from her seat beside Draco to read to letter. Draco and Drew, who were leaning over her to read it also, seemed rather offended about her comment. Missy scanned to the end of the parchment for a signature.
"Heather," Melissa laughed, "she's a 'man hater' as Doug calls her. She's not really that bad, she's just talk."
"Men are not jerks," Draco muttered sullenly.
"And who would be depressed because they had to marry me?" Drew asked, sounding affronted.
Melissa looked over at him, raising an eyebrow. "I'm not depressed, Heather's just dramatic, but you really don't expect me to be happy about this, do you?"
He didn't respond, but looked back at the letter.
The song was Libby's idea; she remembered that we could always make you smile that way. It was my idea to use the Howler, don't tell Doug that we 'borrowed' one of his. Libby is yelling at me now because she didn't know I took it from him. Don't worry; I reminded her that just because she's madly in love with Doug that doesn't mean we can't borrow his things. Even if it does drive him nuts.
I hope we made you laugh. We'll be seeing you sooner than you'd think. By the way, tell your fiancé to send a note to me. I have a few.things to sort out with him. Do you think I should send him the Sacred Constitution?
Thinking of You,
Heather, Libby, and Angie
"The Sacred Constitution?" Vivian asked later.
"I'll tell you later," Melissa responded, while fishing through her bag for a quill and parchment.
She hastily wrote a note back, saying:
Heather,
I am shocked that you would even consider divulging the Sacred Constitution to an outsider, I would like a copy, though, and so you can send one to me. I think, however, that I have found a potential member for the Starlight Society. A Cherub if I ever saw one.
What did you mean by "We'll be seeing you sooner than you think"? I hope this isn't another brilliant idea like you had this summer. I'm still mad at you about that, by the way. Write back soon, and I loved the song!
Sending My Love on Wings of an Angel (or Owl, However You Will Have It),
Missy
Melissa folded up the letter quickly and attached it to the owl's leg. She watched it fly off with a smile, completely happy for the first time in a while. Her friends hadn't forgotten about her all together, after all. When she looked at her friends, she saw three curious friends looking at her.
"Starlight Society?" Draco asked in with a raised eyebrow.
"Cherub?" Drew asked in an equally bewildered tone.
"'Brilliant idea like you had this summer'"? Vivian finished off their questions.
Melissa only smiled mysteriously and finished her breakfast.
Later that day, when she arrived in potions, Severus called Melissa over to his desk before class began.
"Melissa, I would like to ask a favor," her uncle began.
"Yes, Uncle Sev?" Melissa asked curiously.
"You know very well that you're to call me 'Professor' in class," Severus began, frowning in disapproval.
"Class hasn't started yet, Uncle Sev," Melissa responded with an impish grin. He simply sighed.
"Anyways, I'd like you to sit with Longbottom today and keep an eye on him. The potion we will be attempting is very difficult, and while it doesn't matter to me whether or not he kills himself, I'm sure Dumbledore would be upset if anything should happen to a student during my class," Severus explained.
"Oh, Uncle Sev, I think that you really are fond of Neville," Melissa began, but when she saw his sneer, she added, "somewhere, deep down."
"I'm sure," Severus replied sarcastically. "Just keep an eye on him."
"Sure thing, Uncle-" Melissa stopped as the bell rang and amended, "Professor Sev."
"Professor Snape, Missy, you're to call me Professor Snape," Severus corrected, although unable to hide his amusement.
"Mmhmm," Melissa muttered distractedly as she took a seat next to Neville Longbottom. He cowered slightly at seeing his most feared professor's niece sitting next to him. Melissa gave him a reassuring and kind smile. He simply squeaked and began copying down the instructions Severus had put on the board.
Melissa smiled to herself and did the same. She first read out the instructions, which her uncle had simply listed out on the board. She first scanned the paragraph to pick out the ingredients, and then made a list of the steps. After she had finished, she looked over at Neville's notes. She noticed that he had copied down Severus' instructions word for word.
"Neville?" Melissa began softly.
Neville jumped, dropping a beaker he had been using to measure out essence of unicorn. Melissa's eyebrows crinkled in confusion. Why is he so jumpy around me? She wondered. Melissa pulled out her wand.
"Don't hurt me!" Neville cried loudly. Harry and Ron, who were at their table, looked up curiously.
"Repario," Melissa said softly, pointing her wand at the shattered class. The glass shards flew together to form the beaker immediately.
"Why would I hurt you, Neville?" Melissa asked.
"You.You're Professor Snape's niece, aren't you?" Neville asked in a terrified whisper.
Melissa simply laughed, "Yes, he's horrid to you, isn't he? Don't worry, I don't have his temper."
Neville smiled feebly at this.
"I had noticed that you struggle with potions a bit, and was thinking that you might find it easier if you make your notes this way," Melissa offered her notebook to Neville. He placed it in between them, sighing.
"I suppose I might as well try this, although I do suppose it's useless. I'm hopeless in potions. Professor Snape said so himself," Neville said sadly.
"Well, with an attitude like that, of course you won't do well. You live with your grandma, don't you, Neville?" Melissa inquired.
"Yes," He replied slowly.
"Well, have you ever helped her bake?" Melissa persisted.
"Yes," Neville said with a smile, "she thought I did quite well."
"Well," Melissa smiled, "think of the potion as a recipe."
Neville nodded and they began to work.
Forty minutes later, Severus was checking the potions and making notes. He nodded with approval at many of the Slytherins, and pointed out small mistakes the in the Gryffindors potions. When he reached Neville and Melissa, he stopped in surprise.
"Your potion is blue, Longbottom," Severus stated.
"Y-yes sir?" Neville said, eyes wide with terror.
"It's also the perfect texture," Severus turned to Melissa, "I told you to help him, not make his potion for him, Ms. Lewis," he added coldly.
"I didn't, Sir. Neville made his potion by himself, didn't you, Neville?" Melissa protested.
Neville nodded feebly. After a moment, Severus spoke again, "Five points to Slytherin for an amazing miracle, in the form of teaching Neville Longbottom," he drawled sarcastically.
"Shouldn't Neville be awarded points?" Melissa asked testily, "After all, he did brew the potion. It's only fair."
The class waited with baited breath. They had never heard a student go against Severus Snape, and they were sure he wouldn't stand for it. Even if Melissa Lewis was his niece.
"Detention, Miss Lewis," Severus said silkily after a moment. "I will not be spoken to that way. You will remain after class to make arrangements."
Melissa smiled a bit; she had known it was coming. She looked expectantly at her uncle. After a moment, he sighed resolutely and growled, "Five points to Gryffindor." The class looked around in surprise as the bell rang. Did Snape just award points to a house other than Slytherin?
Melissa approached his desk quietly after everyone else had left.
"So, Professor, Dahlin," Melissa said in her southern drawl, "What shall my punishment be?"
"Just come here tonight and help me grade papers. And don't talk back to me like that in class, Missy," Severus snapped, obviously displeased.
Melissa just laughed, causing Severus to smile.
"It is good to hear you laugh again, though. I suggest you run off and get to your class now," He added.
Melissa smiled and did just that.
A/N: Okay, I hope whoever read that liked it. Review and give me any suggestions/criticism/thoughts you have!
The shrewd professor observed Melissa for months, hoping to see an improvement and be able to pass it off as normal teenage moodiness. When she saw none, however, she decided she must take action of some sort. After much internal debate, dealing mostly with pride, McGonagall descended to the dungeons to ask the girl's uncle for help.
Minerva took a deep breath and knocked shortly on Severus' office door before opening it. She stepped into the chilly office to find Severus grading papers. Severus looked up from his work after a moment. He looked mildly surprised to see the Transfiguration professor in the dungeon.
"Can I help you, Minerva?" Severus asked, returning to the stack of papers.
"No," Minerva replied shortly. Severus looked up again. Having caught his attention, the woman continued, "You can help your niece."
"What's wrong with Melissa?" Severus asked with a frown.
"Haven't you noticed?" McGonagall sounded surprised.
"Get to the point," he snarled, "or get out. I have work to do."
"She's been quiet, Severus. Not as social as usual. As if she's brooding."
"The girl has a lot to brood about, Minerva."
"Of course, I realize that the loss of her parents is hard, but Melissa hasn't been like this all year. It's all begun this last week."
Severus was silent for a moment before replying softly, "That is not all she has on her mind."
"What do you mean?" Minerva snapped, sounding annoyed.
"Of course Dumbledore has told you the circumstances under which I chaperoned some twenty students out of the school?"
Minerva nodded and replied, "Of course Dumbledore told me, Severus but how would Melissa know about that? Unless." She let the sentence trail off, and looked at Severus once again. His grim expression confirmed her suspicions.
"I see then," Minerva replied tersely. Her mouth was set in a thin line.
"If there was something I could do for her," Severus stated after a moment, "I would. However, nothing comes to mind."
"Well, if there ever is anything I can do," Minerva said, "let me know."
Severus raised an eyebrow at this. Minerva made a disgusted sound.
"Don't flatter yourself, Severus; I'm not doing this for you. Melissa is a sweet girl, and doesn't deserve any of this," Minerva stated huffily before sweeping out of his office.
Once she was gone, Severus sat back in thought. Christmas was fast approaching, and he had noticed Melissa's sudden lack of conversation skills. He wanted to do something for her, something beyond a nice present. The problem was he had no idea what.
That night after dinner, Melissa headed out to the lake. There was still no snow on the ground as it was late November, but the sky looked as if it were threatening a storm. Despite the chill in the air, Melissa had left her warm cloak in her dorm. Sitting down on the bench by the lake, she pulled out parchment and a quill. It was time she wrote Angie. After an hour, she looked at the finished product.
Angie,
I'm sorry I haven't written in so long, I've been busy. How is everyone doing? I can't believe we're going to be apart for Christmas, this will be the first time. It will be lonely without all of you.
The reason I'm writing is unbelievable, but I have to tell you. I've been putting it off for months because I haven't really wanted to believe it's true. Wishing it away doesn't work, though, so it's time to face reality. I'm getting married, Angie.
Before you start screaming and announcing it to the world, you have to know that this isn't a normal engagement. It's not a choice either of us, Drew and me, made. The issue was forced upon us. I can't tell you the circumstances in a letter, but hopefully I can see you this summer. Then I can tell you everything.
Could you tell everyone else for me? Show them my letter, give them my love. I wish I could be back at Salem more now then ever before. It's funny how homesick you can get.
And, Angie, you'll come to the wedding won't you? I'll need you there. To hold my hand, perhaps even drag me down the isle. I miss you.
With Love,
Merry Christmas,
Missy
Folding up her letter, Melissa stared out at the lake. She shivered, noticing how cold she was, but did not move. Instead, she stared out across the lake. I wonder what Angie will do when she gets my letter. Will she think it's a joke, or will it just make her worry more than before?
Suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder. Melissa started, and whirled around, her fiery curls bouncing around her face. Looking up, she sighed in relief.
"Drew! You scared me!" Melissa exclaimed. She attempted to smile, but faltered when she saw his face. His dark eyes were unreadable, and his face was a careful mask to hide his emotions. Melissa bit her lip, waiting for him to say something.
"You shouldn't be out here without a cloak," Drew said at last, reaching down and pulling her to her feet, "you'll get sick."
"I'll be fine," Melissa snapped, jerking her arm away from him. A few snowflakes began to fall as they stared off. After a moment, Melissa tore her gaze away and shivered.
"Let's just go inside, all right?" Melissa asked, starting to walk away. She stopped as Drew reached out once more and placed his hand on her elbow. Sighing, she looked over at him.
"Drew, I'm cold. Let's just go!" He didn't seem to be listening, though. After another moment, he nodded.
"All right, little Missy."
"Don't call me that."
"Why not?"
"Mama used to call me that," Melissa said softly, cursing the tears that came to her eyes. Drew reached out and stopped her once again.
"You miss her, don't you?"
"Of course I miss her, you idiot," Melissa replied coldly.
"No, I mean more. You miss her more than you did before.."
Melissa sighed, looking down at the ground. She watched a few snowflakes float down to the ground and melt almost instantly. He was right, she did miss her mother. She would have been able to accept everything much easier if only she had been able to talk to her, to write her, anything.
Melissa nodded, a few tears sliding down her face. She angrily brushed them aside, but as soon as they were gone more fell. I hate crying in front of him. I hate that he always seems to know what's wrong Melissa thought bitterly. She heard him step closer, and put his hand on her shoulder.
"Missy?"
Melissa looked up at Drew, and instead of seeing the careful mask, she saw his concern and sympathy. She let him gather her into his arms and wrap the cloak that he was wearing tightly around her. Still clutching the letter, Melissa wrapped her arms around him and cried against his shoulder.
Holding the cloak tightly around Melissa and himself with one hand, Drew gently stroked her hair with the other and simply let her cry. When her breathing became more even, he chanced a look at her. Her head was still resting against his shoulder, but she was looking up at him now. Cautiously, Drew wiped away any trace of tears from Melissa's face.
Melissa took a shaky breath and closed her eyes. She was considerably warmer now, and couldn't help but feel safe in Drew's embrace. Drew slipped an arm around her waist, still looking at her.
"Melissa-"
"Call me Missy-"
"-I have to tell you something."
"What?" Asked Melissa slowly, opening her eyes to gaze at him. He finally looked away, taking a deep breath.
"Why don't we go inside and talk?" He said instead.
"Alright, let's go to the Owlrey, I have a letter to send."
Drew nodded and began walking, still keeping her under his cloak. Melissa let him lead her, but sent him curious glances every few seconds. Drew was resolutely avoiding her gaze as he trudged along the grounds.
When they finally reached the doors to the Entrance Hall, Melissa slipped away from Drew reluctantly. Although it was much warmer inside the castle, it was still warmer next to Drew. They walked along the Halls silently for a moment before Melissa turned to Drew.
"What was it that you needed to tell me?"
"It's...it's about the night that your parents-"
"-Drew, can we not talk about-?"
"-no, Melissa, there's something about that night that I have to tell you."
Melissa stopped to turn and stare at Drew. She took a deep breath before giving him a signal to continue.
"Melissa, I should have told you this before. I was there.that night.."
Melissa stared at him in shock.
"You.you saw them.?" Melissa let her sentence trail off.
"No," Drew whispered, stepping closer.
"You were there when they were..?"
Drew simply shook his head.
"You kill-"
"-no!" He exclaimed, grasping her shoulders. Melissa stared up at Drew with wide eyes, not understanding what he was trying to tell her. She shook her head to show her confusion and he continued.
"Melissa, I took you away."
"What do you mean?"
"That night, I was the one who took you from the house. To your aunt's."
Drew waited with baited breath. He expected her to cry, or to be angry. He waited for her to hit or scream or curse. To his surprise, she did none of that. She turned away and began walking. She seems to be walking away from me a lot tonight Drew thought vaguely before walking after her.
When he caught up, he fell in step beside her. He didn't look at her until they reached the Owlrey. Her face showed her every emotion. Her confusion and pain were showed clearly along with shock and something else he couldn't recognize.
Melissa quickly chose an owl and tied her letter to its leg. She sent it off and watched it fly away before turning to leave. When they reached the Slytherin common room twenty minutes later, it was deserted. They walked across the room silently.
Drew turned to go up the stairs to his dormitory when Melissa called his name softly. He turned around, looking at her expectantly.
"Yes, Missy?"
Melissa stepped forward and looked up at him.
"Thank you," she stated quietly.
"What?" Drew asked in surprise. He hadn't expected that at all.
"Thank you for saving me that night. They would have killed me," Melissa replied quietly before she turned and ran up the steps to her dorm to go to sleep. Drew stared after her a moment before slowly walking up the stairs and going to bed himself.
Three days later, Melissa woke early in the morning. She rolled over in an attempt to go back to sleep. Sighing, she finally threw her covers off and climbed out of bed. She picked out her clothes quietly so that she wouldn't wake any of her dorm mates. After showering, she got dressed and sat at a vanity in the bathroom.
She decided to do her hair because she had time to kill. Fishing some bobby pins out of one of the drawers, she set to work. In fifteen minutes, her hair was pinned up like her mother had taught her that summer. Looking in the mirror, she couldn't help but notice how much she looked like her mother with her hair put up like that.
After a moment she walked downstairs to the still empty common room. In the far corner she noticed something she had never seen before-a piano. It was handsome and carved out of cherry wood, looking as if it had just been polished. Melissa ran her fingers over the ivory keys and played a bar. She was pleased to see that it was in tune.
Melissa ran up the stairs quietly and ran into her dorm where the other girls were just waking. Pansy Parkinson and Blaise Zabini were talking from their beds. Vivian pulled her pillow over her head in an attempt to go back to sleep. Melissa grinned impishly, and jumped on the lump in the bed that was Vivian.
Vivian shrieked and sat up quickly, throwing Melissa off her. Melissa landed against Vivian's pillows, chuckling softly. Vivian looked around wildly, and her mouth hung open when she saw Melissa.
"What did you do that for?" Vivian asked indignantly, smacking Melissa with a pillow.
"It's time to get up," Melissa replied sweetly, climbing away from her. A few pieces of her hair had fallen out of the pins, but she didn't bother to put them back. Vivian was sending Melissa a death glare, but the redhead simply laughed. Pansy and Blaise were also laughing, though trying not to. The sight of the blonde girl looking so furious was funny.
Melissa walked to her trunk and threw it open. She began ferreting through it, and finally found what she was looking for at the bottom. She stood up holding onto a music book that had belonged to her mother.
"What's that?" Blaise asked curiously.
"A music book, I noticed the piano in the common room. I haven't touched a piano since." Melissa stopped.
"Since what?" Pansy asked.
"Since.since I left America," Melissa responded.
"Oh," both girls replied. Melissa turned and walked back downstairs. She flipped through the pages absently before picking one out. It had been her mother's favorite, and she had been forced to play it until she knew it nearly by heart.
Melissa sat at the bench and began to play. It took a few moments for it all to come back, but once it did she was completely engrossed in her playing. The notes flew through the air, and Melissa felt as if she were releasing her every sorrow and joy into the music. When the song was over, she took a deep breath. It felt good to play again.
When she turned around, she was surprised to see half of Slytherin house standing around. She blushed furiously when she noticed they were all staring at her. Why didn't I hear them come in? Melissa wondered as she bit her lip. She had never liked playing in front of an audience; normally she would only play for her mother or Angie.
"I didn't know you could play the piano," said a third year boy she didn't know.
"That was really good," Pansy told her, sounding amazed.
"What song was that?" Blaise asked.
"Uhm, Moonlight Sonata, by Mozart," Melissa mumbled.
"You should play more often," said Draco, throwing an amiable arm around her shoulder. Noticing her discomfort at being stared at, he added, "Why don't we go down to breakfast? I'm starved."
Melissa nodded and she, Draco, Drew, and Vivian walked down together. They sat at their table and began to pile food on their plates. As they began to eat, the owl post came in. After a moment, Melissa noticed that an owl had landed before her. She reached out to take the letter, but paused in horror when she saw the tell tale scarlet envelope: a Howler.
Who would send me a Howler? She thought in shock. The owl had flown off as soon as she had removed the scarlet envelope, as if knowing what would happen. Uncle Severus? Melissa thought, looking up at him. He was talking with Professor McGonagall, and Melissa couldn't think of anything she had done to anger him. Besides, Severus would rebuke her in a much more subtle way if he needed to.
"Who sent you a Howler?" Drew asked at her side.
"I don't know," she answered.
"I'd open that before it explodes," Draco advised her.
"Yeah, he'd know," Vivian sniggered.
"Shut it, you," Draco growled playfully.
"What do you mean?" Melissa asked, forgetting the scarlet envelope.
"Draco refused to open one that his mum sent him for a bad test score last year," Vivian explained with a giggle when Draco glared at her, "and it exploded. On top of being berated in front of the whole school, he had a detention for causing a fire."
Melissa laughed and decided she'd better get it over with. Bracing herself, she slid her finger across the seal to break it. She opened it cautiously, and waited for the chaotic shouts to fill the air. What she heard instead confused her. It sounded like a beat was being clapped. Then, a voice filled the air, although it didn't sound angry like expected.
He went away and you hung around
And bothered me, every night
And when I wouldn't go out with you
You said things that weren't very nice
Melissa's jaw dropped open, but before her shock could wear off, three voices began singing.
My boyfriend's back and you're gonna be in trouble
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You see him comin´ better cut out on the double
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You been spreading lies that I was untrue
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
So look out now cause he's comin´ after you
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
(Hey, he knows that you been tryin´)
(And he knows that you been lyin´)
He's been gone for such a long time
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
Now he's back and things´ll be fine
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
You're gonna be sorry you were ever born
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
Cause he's kinda big and he's awful strong
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
(Hey he knows I wasn't cheatin´!)
(Now you're gonna get a beatin´!)
(What made you think he'd believe all your lies?)
(Wah-ooo, wah-ooo)
(You're a big man now but he'll cut you down to size
(Wah-ooo, wait and see)
My boyfriend's back he's gonna save my reputation
(Hey-la-day-la my boyfriend's back)
If I were you I'd take a permanent vacation
(Hey-la, hey-la, my boyfriend's back)
Yeah, my boyfriend's back
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Look out now, yeah, my boyfriend's back
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
I could see him comin´
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
So you better get a runnin´
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Alright now
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(La-day-la, my boyfriends back)
My boyfriend's back now
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Know he's comin´ after you
(La-day-la, my boyfriend's back)
Because he knows I've been true now...
By the time the song was over, Melissa was laughing so hard tears were running down her cheeks. Most of the other students in the Great Hall were also laughing, looking around to see who had received the Howler. Drew, Draco and Vivian were also laughing, but looking curiously at Melissa.
"Who sent it, Melissa?" Vivian asked.
"A-A-Angie.and H-Heather.and Libby.." Melissa managed to state between fits of laughter. She finally managed to control her laughter. She noticed that another owl had landed in front of her. A letter was attached to its leg, and she pulled it off.
Missy,
We got your letter, and decided that you sounded a bit depressed. Not that you don't have a reason to be, God knows men are jerks and we'd be depressed if we were getting married, too. Angie just yelled at me for saying that, but it's the truth and I'm always truthful.
Missy laughed, and so did Vivian, who had stood up from her seat beside Draco to read to letter. Draco and Drew, who were leaning over her to read it also, seemed rather offended about her comment. Missy scanned to the end of the parchment for a signature.
"Heather," Melissa laughed, "she's a 'man hater' as Doug calls her. She's not really that bad, she's just talk."
"Men are not jerks," Draco muttered sullenly.
"And who would be depressed because they had to marry me?" Drew asked, sounding affronted.
Melissa looked over at him, raising an eyebrow. "I'm not depressed, Heather's just dramatic, but you really don't expect me to be happy about this, do you?"
He didn't respond, but looked back at the letter.
The song was Libby's idea; she remembered that we could always make you smile that way. It was my idea to use the Howler, don't tell Doug that we 'borrowed' one of his. Libby is yelling at me now because she didn't know I took it from him. Don't worry; I reminded her that just because she's madly in love with Doug that doesn't mean we can't borrow his things. Even if it does drive him nuts.
I hope we made you laugh. We'll be seeing you sooner than you'd think. By the way, tell your fiancé to send a note to me. I have a few.things to sort out with him. Do you think I should send him the Sacred Constitution?
Thinking of You,
Heather, Libby, and Angie
"The Sacred Constitution?" Vivian asked later.
"I'll tell you later," Melissa responded, while fishing through her bag for a quill and parchment.
She hastily wrote a note back, saying:
Heather,
I am shocked that you would even consider divulging the Sacred Constitution to an outsider, I would like a copy, though, and so you can send one to me. I think, however, that I have found a potential member for the Starlight Society. A Cherub if I ever saw one.
What did you mean by "We'll be seeing you sooner than you think"? I hope this isn't another brilliant idea like you had this summer. I'm still mad at you about that, by the way. Write back soon, and I loved the song!
Sending My Love on Wings of an Angel (or Owl, However You Will Have It),
Missy
Melissa folded up the letter quickly and attached it to the owl's leg. She watched it fly off with a smile, completely happy for the first time in a while. Her friends hadn't forgotten about her all together, after all. When she looked at her friends, she saw three curious friends looking at her.
"Starlight Society?" Draco asked in with a raised eyebrow.
"Cherub?" Drew asked in an equally bewildered tone.
"'Brilliant idea like you had this summer'"? Vivian finished off their questions.
Melissa only smiled mysteriously and finished her breakfast.
Later that day, when she arrived in potions, Severus called Melissa over to his desk before class began.
"Melissa, I would like to ask a favor," her uncle began.
"Yes, Uncle Sev?" Melissa asked curiously.
"You know very well that you're to call me 'Professor' in class," Severus began, frowning in disapproval.
"Class hasn't started yet, Uncle Sev," Melissa responded with an impish grin. He simply sighed.
"Anyways, I'd like you to sit with Longbottom today and keep an eye on him. The potion we will be attempting is very difficult, and while it doesn't matter to me whether or not he kills himself, I'm sure Dumbledore would be upset if anything should happen to a student during my class," Severus explained.
"Oh, Uncle Sev, I think that you really are fond of Neville," Melissa began, but when she saw his sneer, she added, "somewhere, deep down."
"I'm sure," Severus replied sarcastically. "Just keep an eye on him."
"Sure thing, Uncle-" Melissa stopped as the bell rang and amended, "Professor Sev."
"Professor Snape, Missy, you're to call me Professor Snape," Severus corrected, although unable to hide his amusement.
"Mmhmm," Melissa muttered distractedly as she took a seat next to Neville Longbottom. He cowered slightly at seeing his most feared professor's niece sitting next to him. Melissa gave him a reassuring and kind smile. He simply squeaked and began copying down the instructions Severus had put on the board.
Melissa smiled to herself and did the same. She first read out the instructions, which her uncle had simply listed out on the board. She first scanned the paragraph to pick out the ingredients, and then made a list of the steps. After she had finished, she looked over at Neville's notes. She noticed that he had copied down Severus' instructions word for word.
"Neville?" Melissa began softly.
Neville jumped, dropping a beaker he had been using to measure out essence of unicorn. Melissa's eyebrows crinkled in confusion. Why is he so jumpy around me? She wondered. Melissa pulled out her wand.
"Don't hurt me!" Neville cried loudly. Harry and Ron, who were at their table, looked up curiously.
"Repario," Melissa said softly, pointing her wand at the shattered class. The glass shards flew together to form the beaker immediately.
"Why would I hurt you, Neville?" Melissa asked.
"You.You're Professor Snape's niece, aren't you?" Neville asked in a terrified whisper.
Melissa simply laughed, "Yes, he's horrid to you, isn't he? Don't worry, I don't have his temper."
Neville smiled feebly at this.
"I had noticed that you struggle with potions a bit, and was thinking that you might find it easier if you make your notes this way," Melissa offered her notebook to Neville. He placed it in between them, sighing.
"I suppose I might as well try this, although I do suppose it's useless. I'm hopeless in potions. Professor Snape said so himself," Neville said sadly.
"Well, with an attitude like that, of course you won't do well. You live with your grandma, don't you, Neville?" Melissa inquired.
"Yes," He replied slowly.
"Well, have you ever helped her bake?" Melissa persisted.
"Yes," Neville said with a smile, "she thought I did quite well."
"Well," Melissa smiled, "think of the potion as a recipe."
Neville nodded and they began to work.
Forty minutes later, Severus was checking the potions and making notes. He nodded with approval at many of the Slytherins, and pointed out small mistakes the in the Gryffindors potions. When he reached Neville and Melissa, he stopped in surprise.
"Your potion is blue, Longbottom," Severus stated.
"Y-yes sir?" Neville said, eyes wide with terror.
"It's also the perfect texture," Severus turned to Melissa, "I told you to help him, not make his potion for him, Ms. Lewis," he added coldly.
"I didn't, Sir. Neville made his potion by himself, didn't you, Neville?" Melissa protested.
Neville nodded feebly. After a moment, Severus spoke again, "Five points to Slytherin for an amazing miracle, in the form of teaching Neville Longbottom," he drawled sarcastically.
"Shouldn't Neville be awarded points?" Melissa asked testily, "After all, he did brew the potion. It's only fair."
The class waited with baited breath. They had never heard a student go against Severus Snape, and they were sure he wouldn't stand for it. Even if Melissa Lewis was his niece.
"Detention, Miss Lewis," Severus said silkily after a moment. "I will not be spoken to that way. You will remain after class to make arrangements."
Melissa smiled a bit; she had known it was coming. She looked expectantly at her uncle. After a moment, he sighed resolutely and growled, "Five points to Gryffindor." The class looked around in surprise as the bell rang. Did Snape just award points to a house other than Slytherin?
Melissa approached his desk quietly after everyone else had left.
"So, Professor, Dahlin," Melissa said in her southern drawl, "What shall my punishment be?"
"Just come here tonight and help me grade papers. And don't talk back to me like that in class, Missy," Severus snapped, obviously displeased.
Melissa just laughed, causing Severus to smile.
"It is good to hear you laugh again, though. I suggest you run off and get to your class now," He added.
Melissa smiled and did just that.
A/N: Okay, I hope whoever read that liked it. Review and give me any suggestions/criticism/thoughts you have!