Chapter Nine

The next morning, Val restrained a yawn as she approached her seat at the Head table in the Great Hall. She and Oliver had stayed up into the late hours getting to know each other and discussing their class plans.

Morning had come too early, and Val had risen and donned her gray professor's robes in preparation for the day. With the help of a few easy charms she was ready within minutes of waking up, and had used the time to take some of her things to her new office and arrange them.

Oliver stood and held out her seat so that she could sit down. Thank you, you are such a gentleman she commented as she smiled at him gratefully. You have no idea how hard those are to find in America.

Oliver leaned toward her slightly so that his reply would not be easily heard. I just wanted to say that you look beautiful and well rested this morning despite our late night. I also wanted to warn you not to mind Snape. He seems to be in a particularly good mood today.

Val looked skeptical. You mean more so than normal? I thought he was always like that.

No, he's just put out because I got the DADA position. It's common knowledge that he would give up teaching potions if he was offered the position.

Val gasped and glanced sideways at Snape before saying But he is so well known and respected in his field, even if my cousins do describe him as a greasy git' when they discuss his classes.

Oliver choked on his coffee when Val mentioned the nickname and they both laughed as she pounded him on the back. One look at the subject of their conversation told them that he was not pleased by their outburst.

Suddenly Val felt a little paranoid. You don't think he realizes that we're talking about him? she whispered to Oliver conspiratorially.

Oliver grinned and replied, No. I think he's just put out that we're both in a better mood than he is.

Well, I'd hate to be in his class this morning. Poor students.

Oliver took another sip of his coffee. I still remember my first day of Potions. He had us all terrified to death with that little speech of his, about Potion making being far superior to foolish wand waving and silly incantations,' or something like that. Then he fired off all these questions that we had no idea how to answer. He's pretty intimidating, especially to the first years.

Val sat back in her chair for a moment, thinking quietly. Oliver, do you know when his class for first year Gryffindor and Slytherin is scheduled?

First thing this morning, why?

I have some free time before my classes. I think I'd like to observe this speech of his, inconspicuously of course.

Oliver looked appropriately shocked. Finally he managed to say, I think you're either the bravest or the craziest woman that I've ever met. Let me know how it goes.

Pushing out her seat, Val's parting comment was Of course. We'll talk about it at lunch, okay? I'll be sure to give you all the details.

As she moved past the rest of the faculty she was keenly aware of Snape's scrutiny. Val flashed him a bright smile as she brushed past his chair and left the Great Hall.