Chapter Twenty Two

Severus joined Professor McGonagall and Headmaster Dumbledore in the faculty bow, swishing his dark robes aside so he could sit gracefully in the seat next to Minerva. He glanced out at the field in time to see Val block an excellent shot Oliver had just thrown at her. Severus suddenly had the overwhelming urge to cheer for her, but squelched it immediately.

Val now had possession of the Quaffle, and was streaking toward the opposite end of the field toward Oliver and his goals. A collective gasp rose from the crowd when, quite suddenly and unexpectedly, Val dropped the Quaffle in her grasp and dove straight down in pursuit of the Snitch. Oliver followed, hoping to overtake her.

Val could see the Snitch getting closer as she directed the broom's descent. It was hovering merely inches from the ground. This will be a tricky catch, but I think I can do it' she thought as she approached the turf at an astonishing speed. The crowd rose from their seats when it became obvious that this was not a feint, and Val was not intending to pull up.

Oliver had stopped his pursuit and was hovering above, watching his friend. With a leap Val jumped off the broomstick, pushing it out of harm's way as she tumbled to the ground, her fist closing around the Snitch as she rolled to a stop. A swirl of light claimed her vision and she closed her eyes, struggling to catch her breath while moving as little as possible.

Everyone swarmed the field at once, the professors moving quickly to restrict the students from getting too close. Severus ran to Val and pulled her carefully into his arms while checking for injuries. Her hair had fallen loose and was now a red gold curtain down her back. She rested her head against his shoulder and wrapped her arms around his neck as he picked her up and headed to the hospital wing.

When they reached the infirmary Poppy directed Severus to place Val on the nearest bed, but he was reluctant to let her go. Scowling at the mediwitch, he pulled a chair over to the bedside and observed Val's examination.

Finally, Poppy announced, You'll be fine dear. You just got the breath knocked out of you. I've seen worse injuries for the kind of move I hear you pulled off today. Just be a little more careful. Now rest as long as you like in here, and then take it easy for the rest of the day. Smiling, Poppy left them alone and went into her office.

Val opened her eyes to glance warily at Severus, knowing that she was about to get into trouble. His answering glare made her wince, and she braced herself for the coming lecture. In a swift move, Severus moved from the chair to her bed, pulling her into his arms. In shock, Val returned the hug. After a moment of blissful silence he pulled back slightly and gave her a serious look.

You scared me to death, Val. I thought you were really hurt, and all for a stupid game. Promise me you'll never do anything like that again.

I swear I won't, Severus. Now will you do me a favor and let everyone know I'm okay, please?

Of course, now get some rest. Severus kissed Val gently on the forehead before releasing her to fall back on the pillows.

I'll be back to check on you later, so behave yourself, he warned in a mock serious tone before closing the door behind him.

I will, Val said, knowing he couldn't hear her. She sighed and closed her eyes to take a nap.