Strange Bedfellows
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created by J.K. Rowling. Only the large corporations and J.K. are making money off of it not me.
Author Notes: This story originated from a Hogwart's role play in which Professor Snape is married and has three children. His wife, who also taught at Hogwart's, has left him and this is where the story picks up. Thanks to Severus and Beate wink wink for their help and my dubious beta stinkybubbles.
Chapter One Open Wounds
Severus sat in the corner of Dumbledore's office for the third time this week and attempted to listen to the ramblings of the old man. Yes, it was true, the students would be returning in a matter of days and among those students would be the Potter boy but, he was tired and he had problems of his own to think of. Right now, he could care less whether or not all the proper precautions had been taken for their safety. He just wanted this particular meeting to be over with so he could find a quiet corner somewhere, have a quick drink by him self, then go home, and hug his children.
"Severus." It was Professor McGonagall and she was elbowing him.
"What?" he asked looking up from his hands.
"We're finished," she said looking at him curiously. "Are you all right?"
Severus grunted and rose from his chair. "I'm fine, I'm just tired as we all are," he said rising to his feet. McGonagall watched him cross the office and exit pushing his way through the sea of teachers.
He didn't bother to return to his office, there was nothing for him there, not now, not today. He was soon wandering through the empty hallways of the castle and wondering how he had let things get to this point. He was so lost in thought that he soon found himself hitting a solid object. He looked up and saw books, cards, and one very small and glittery Professor go crashing to the floor. "Sybill I'm sorry," he said reaching down to offer her a hand.
Trelawney adjusted her glasses and straightened her robes. "It's all right Severus. I'm afraid I wasn't watching where I was going," she said apologetic. She blushed, took his hand, rose to her feet, and pulled out her wand. "Accio," she called over the pile of things scattered across the floor.
He looked at her oddly. "You weren't at the meeting just now were you?"
Trelawney looked down at her books. "No, I forgot I'm afraid. I was busy doing some things in the classroom." She shifted nervously on the spot. "I really need to be going."
Snape looked at her as she started to walk away and then noticed that she had missed a deck of cards. He bent down to retrieve them and called her name. This time when she turned, he noticed that behind her large spectacles her eyes were red and swollen. "Thank you Severus," she said quickly turning to leave again. Severus looked after her for a moment, then shrugged it off and once again set off for his intended goal.
He was happy to find the Three Broomsticks nearly empty when he arrived. Again, not many people would be searching for a drink at ten in the morning on a Tuesday. "Good morning Severus," said Madam Rosemerta before giving him a suspicious look. "This is the third time this week."
"Are you keeping track of me for a reason?" he asked irritated. She smiled and handed him a large glass of something that was smoking slightly.
"Just concerned with your state of mind I suppose," she said just before leaving quietly.
He stared at the liquid for a moment or two and then downed it in to two gulps. He laid some gold coins on the table and then as quickly as he was there he was gone. He decided to walk home; he thought that the warmth and freshness of the breeze would help to clear his head. He looked up at the sun and let it's warmth bathe his face for a short time and it helped him push back the tears that he felt welling up inside on him. "No I won't," he said to himself and then he pushed on forcing himself to think about upcoming lessons and extra safety precautions.
It seems though that the closer that he got to home the more that he couldn't shake the loneliness. It wasn't fair; you weren't supposed to be married and lonely at the same time. Severus stopped just when he could see his house and stared up the walk. It was really getting to the point of where he was going to need to tell the children something soon. It wasn't just there needs, after all, he was a man, and he did have needs of his own. He sighed and decided to continue.
Severus opened the door slowly and entered the modest cottage that he now considered his home away from Hogwart's. "Daddy, Daddy," it was Anna his youngest daughter of ten and the more enthusiastic of the two girls. She had shoulder length light brown hair and dark brown eyes like her father and she had been waiting patiently for him by the door in hopes that he would be there soon. He bent slightly, took her into his arms, and carried her with him as he entered the house.
"And how is my Anna this morning?" Anna stuck out her lower lip and gave her father her best pouty look.
"I can't believe you left without saying goodbye. Then Mrs. Walker wouldn't let me go up to the school to see you and, ." Severus put his fingers to her lips.
"Now Anna, it was very early when I left and Mrs. Walker knows that right now you shouldn't be wandering about the castle by yourself," he said gently. Anna looked at him, sighed, and then smiled. "That's better." He set her on the floor and stood up. "Where are your sister and brother?"
"They're in the kitchen with Mrs. Walker," said Anna somewhat sassily. "Wolf's been whining all day again." Severus could hear the sarcasm in his daughter's voice.
"Anna, you need to be kinder to your brother. We all have our own way of dealing with things." Severus thought about how he was dealing with them and felt the burning sensation in his eyes again. He reached down for Anna's hand. "Let's go and see what they're up to."
"All right," agreed Anna giving him her hand and smiling. It was a short walk to the kitchen where they were suddenly confronted with the smell of baking cookies. Severus drew a deep breath, smiled, and looked around in search of his two remaining children.
Mrs. Walker, a short plump witch with short black hair was helping the five- year-old Wolf roll cookie dough out on the counter. His hair was the color of Anna's but is was curlier and feel into his dark eyes. Across the room, sitting on a tall stool by the counter was Honey. The eldest of the trio, Honey was fourteen and was a beautiful budding young lady. Severus thought often of how much she looked like her mother, her soft brown hair, and eyes, the way that dimples appeared on her cheeks when she smiled. She was reading a book and trying very hard not to get covered by the flour, that Wolf was busy throwing everywhere. All three stopped what they were doing and looked at Severus and Anna as they entered the room. "Hey, dad you're home early," Honey said looking up only for a second.
"Look dad I'm on my second batch," said Wolf trying to wipe the flour from his nose with his sleeve.
"Professor, I didn't expect you so soon. Is everything okay?" asked the woman in a kind voice.
"Yes, I just decided that I wanted to spend the afternoon with my children. It won't be long before classes will start and I won't be able to." Severus pulled up a stool next to Honey and brushed as much flour off of it as he could before he sat on it. "What are you reading?"
"Standard Book of Spells Grade Four," she said showing her father the cover of the book and then going back to her page. Severus smiled and shook his head causing her to giggle. "What?"
"I didn't say anything," he said putting an arm around her. Anna was hovering close to the oven door and looking at the cookies.
"When are they going to be done Wolf?"
"I dunno," said Wolf looking at Mrs. Walker.
"They should be about done Wolf. Perhaps your father would help you take them out." Wolf looked over at Severus longingly, he so much wanted his father's approval, but it seemed that nothing he did these days was good enough.
"Would you help me dad?" he asked. Severus shifted uncomfortably on the stool and then nodded. He rose and followed his son to the oven. "Here," Wolf said handing him a towel to pull them out with. Severus took the towel and for a moment looked into his son's eyes. He lingered only for a second; for it was hardest of all to look there, for there within his eyes he was most likely to find Trista.
Severus burnt his hand taking the cookies out of the oven, because he of course was no longer concerned with the flames, his mind had wandered back to happier times. "Damn!" Severus looked around.
"Dad!" said Honey.
"Sorry," said Severus. He placed the tray over to the side and ran some cool water over the burn. Anna and Wolf giggled, Severus cracked a smile. "That's enough. I'm only human you know."
"I'll kiss it," said Anna coming quickly to his side. Honey rolled her eyes and returned to her book.
"Thank you sweetie," said Severus beaming. Mrs. Walker helped Wolf remove the warm cookies to cool while Anna and her dad retreated to the nearby kitchen table. Severus noticed a sad smile develop on his son's face as he watched his and Anna's exchange.
"Wolf are you finished with your cookies?" asked Severus quickly catching his son's attention.
Wolf looked at Mrs. Walker who smiled and nodded. "Actually I was just going to clean up and since you were here sir I was going to leave if that's all right There are some things I need to do," said the elderly witch winking at Severus.
"I think we'll manage just fine," he answered smiling. Anna followed Severus into the lounge while Wolf helped Mrs. Walker clean up the mess they had made in the kitchen and then followed. Honey watched for a moment over her book and then after playing the brooding teen, sulked in after them and sat in the corner. Anna crawled up in Severus lap and after some encouragement Wolf followed. Severus looked across the room at Honey who fought back a smile. He was happy that he was here even though he had a feeling that he would be answering for it in the morning. There were some things that you just had to do for yourself and your sanity.
"Sybill have you seen Severus?" Professor Trelawney was once again taken off guard and just barely kept hold of her bounty. She surveyed Professor McGonagall's face and sensed that at the moment she was not pleased with Snape.
"No I have not," she lied blatantly. "Why are you looking for him?" she asked suspiciously.
"That's really none of your business," answered the Professor indignantly. Then she looked at Trelawney with great contempt and added. "We missed you at the meeting this morning."
"I had some things to take care of. I'm sure that Professor Dumbledore will let me know what I need to know Minerva," answered Sybill quietly.
"I hope you're not under the misconception that crystal gazing will keep you informed as to what's going on at the school Sybill," snapped McGonagall. Professor Trelawney bit her lip and turned her head.
"I have things to do Minerva. I'll let Severus know that you're looking for him if I see him. Good day." She turned and walked away as quickly as she could. She didn't stop or even slow down until she was close enough to see the door that led to her classroom. She stopped and looked. Why had she lied about seeing Severus? Why did she care whether he got in trouble for leaving the school grounds?
She shifted her books and things to one arm and with the wave of her wand allowed the ladder that led to her room to descend. It was very hot at the when the top of the ladder and normally this did not bother her; in fact she usually preferred it to be that way. However, today she felt a need to open up a window and breathe fresh air. She sat in front of the open window for the longest time staring out it and thinking about the upcoming school year. She was feeling very boxed in and lonely. Sybill thought about Severus and wondered what he was doing at this very moment. She felt tears running down her cheeks and decided that she had had enough of Hogwart's for one day.
She wasn't sure how she had gotten to Hogsmeade but just walking among the people with the sun shining in her face was an experience that she never thought she would enjoy. She couldn't remember the last time she'd done something this stupid and she found that she wanted to giggle about it. She also had a an irresistible urge to go back to the castle just long enough to slap McGonagall and then run all the way back to where she was. This thought did make her laugh uncontrollably. "Professor Trelawney, what are you doing here?" Sybill heard a child's voice behind her and turned to see who had discovered her little adventure.
"Miss Snape," she said being quite shocked to find Honey Snape standing behind her holding her brother's hand. "Are you here alone?" she asked looking around.
"No, dad's here. He and Anna just went inside for a moment, they should be right back."
Sybill felt a wave of panic sweep over her and then she looked at Wolf and smiled. "You must be Wolf." The young man smiled and nodded. "You look just like just like your father."
"You think so." Sybill lost her balance and nearly fell over as she looked up to see Severus standing above his son now.
"Sybill."
"Severus." She steadied herself and smiled at him. "You in town with your children?"
"Yes, I don't expect there will be many opportunities soon. What brings you to town?" he looked at her oddly. "Come to think of it, I don't believe I've ever seen you outside the castle in years."
Sybil shifted uncomfortably in her spot. "I just had an urge to be outside today." She looked at the ground and then back up and Severus and his children. "Oh, Minerva was looking for you earlier."
"Oh," said Severus looking only slightly concerned.
"I told her I hadn't seen you." She looked at the children's faces again and then gave Severus another uncomfortable smile. "Well, have a good day with your children. I will see you at the castle." She turned to leave.
"Sybill, where are you going?" he asked quickly taking her quite by surprise.
Trelawney turned around and giggled slightly. "I haven't the slightest idea. I'm not sure how I even got here," she admitted with an additional giggled. Severus cracked a smile. Wolf was tugging at Severus' robe now and Sybill was feeling more uncomfortable by the moment. "Well, have a good day all," she repeated turning again.
"Sybill." Severus reached out and took her elbow this time causing her to jump and so did he. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to startle you. I just thought that if you weren't doing anything maybe you'd like to have dinner with my family and me," he asked awkwardly.
"Yeah Professor that would be fun," chimed in Anna.
Honey however had other ideas. "Dad, I'm supposed to be going over to Gina's house for dinner."
"I think you can forfeit going to a friend's house one night Honey. I want to take you and your sister and brother to dinner and I'd like Sybill to come along as well," said Snape raising his voice slightly. Wolf cowered behind Anna looking very intimidated.
"Severus, if she's already made plans it's not necessary," started Trelawney.
"No, she's made plans without asking and she knows that's unacceptable. We're going to dinner and that's that!"
Sybill looked at Severus as though the command had been aimed at her as well. "All right," she said looking up at Severus. Snape looked at Sybill and then realized what he had done and began to laugh.
"I'm sorry Sybill, children, it's been a very long day." He turned to Honey. "Can you visit with your friend another night?" Honey sighed, gave her father a very disgruntled look, and nodded. "Sybill would you please join us for dinner?" said Snape holding out his arm.
Sybill smiled. "I'd love to Severus," said Sybill taking his arm. He then grabbed Honey who reluctantly came bringing Wolf with her. Anna giggled wildly and took the arm the Sybill offered her. They were quite a sight to see walking down the middle of the street, heading toward the Three Broomsticks, it was a very good thing that no one from the castle was there to see it.
It took Honey quite some time to get over not getting her way, but when she did; even she was having a good time. Anna was quite the live wire and had Trelawney and her father laughing heartily soon after their meal arrived. Professor Trelawney watched as Snape had his ups and downs with his children throughout the meal and felt emptiness inside for it. When they had finished their meal, she offered to help him take the sleepy children home, which he quickly accepted. Wolf hadn't made it three steps out of the door before Severus was carrying him. Sybill would watch him put the boy to bed from the hallway with a yearning in her heart. Anna and Honey told her good night and crossed the lounge toward their bedrooms. "I'll be right back," said Severus turning to follow them.
"It's all right Severus," said Sybill clutching the doorknob. "I'm going to go, thank you for the lovely evening. I'll see you sometime." Trelawney turned the knob on the door and before Snape could say a word was gone. He turned to go after her.
"Daddy, are you coming," called Anna from the other room.
Severus hesitated. "Yes Anna, I'm coming," he said heading down the hallway.
Sybill walked slowly along the dark street. She was in no hurry to return to the loneliness of her Hogwart's quarters. There was a time when she would have thought it mad that she had ventured out of it. However, things and she herself were changing. Perhaps it was the threat of the Dark Lord again, the possibility of impending doom. She allowed herself a chuckle. Somehow these things no longer held the same intrigue that they once did. She had spent two months evaluating her life and had decided that despite what she had been telling herself for the last twenty years she was not a happy person.
She passed a short wizard who tipped his hat to her; she smiled and said "Hello." Then she smiled to herself because she had done it. It had been a good day even though now she had an even emptier feeling than she had had before, because for a short time she had gotten to share Severus' family and this was a memory that she could keep for a good long while.
Severus woke but didn't open his eyes. He lie for a moment in the sunlight that streamed through the open curtains and reached out into the bed to find it empty. He sighed and then realized that he hadn't even found a small child there. Perhaps Anna and Wolf had been too tired from the previous night's festivities to venture there. It's not as though he wanted to find them there, he didn't however wish to find it empty. He now found that there was an ache, a need in his body, perhaps in his very soul that could not be fulfilled at that moment and decided that he should get up. "A shower," he thought "and not a warm and inviting one."
"Where were you yesterday afternoon Severus?" McGonagall was standing over Snape at his desk and tutting rather impatiently. "Albus wanted the heads of houses to meet."
He didn't look up from his work. "I'm sure it's something that we can do this afternoon Minerva I wanted, no I needed to spend some time with my family."
Even Professor McGonagall couldn't argue with this logic. She couldn't look at Snape and tell him that he couldn't spend time with his family. Everyone in the castle knew that he was going through a rough time but no one knew what to do for him. He wasn't the type of person that you consoled and even if he was, Minerva wasn't the one to do it. "I'm sorry Severus, you should have just told me."
"I shouldn't have to explain myself," mumbled Snape under his breath. "Now, if you'll excuse me I have a lot of work to do." McGonagall lingered for a moment looking at him sympathetically and then left.
Severus stopped what he was doing and placed his head in his hands. The last thing he wanted from the rest of the staff was their pity. It had been over two months since Dumbledore had come to him with Trista's resignation in his hand; a hell of way to find out your wife has left you. He had not asked for anyone's pity then and he did not want it now.
Sybill found herself once more flat on the floor with her belongings scattered around her and laughed. "This is getting to be a habit I'm afraid," she said looking up at Severus.
Snape cracked an actually smile. "I'm sorry Sybill."
"It's all right my mind it seems, is quite elsewhere these days," explained Trelawney taking his hand once again to rise. She looked up into his eyes, smiled, and then once again collected her things with a summoning charm. "Nice to see you again Severus," she said starting toward her classroom.
"Sybill," called Snape. She stopped and turned around. "I'm on my way to a meeting with Dumbledore and the heads of houses but after that would you like to go and have some tea or something?"
Trelawney looked at him suspiciously and then smiled. "Okay, I'll be in my office," she said softly looking quite nervous.
"All right then," he said. "I'll see you."
Snape was quite sure he hadn't heard a word that Dumbledore or any of the other Professor's had said at their afternoon meeting and by the look in Dumbledore's eyes when he asked to walk with him he knew it too. "You're looking tired Severus," said Dumbledore as they walked down the hallway toward his office.
"I'm rather busy as you know Albus. It is at your request that I am burning the candle at both ends," answered Severus coldly. Dumbledore stopped and looked at Snape who quickly realized he had overstepped his bounds. "I'm sorry Albus, I guess I am tired."
Dumbledore placed a hand on Severus shoulder and looked into his tired eyes. "Is there anything I can do?"
"Put an end to this mess so that I don't have to choose between what is right and what is mine," said Severus looking very weary. Dumbledore didn't say anything to him but gave him an additional encouraging smile before leaving him outside his office door.
Lost in thought Snape made his way down to his dungeon classroom and began to toil over lesson plans, thoughts of emptiness and dark lords raging in his head. It was dark before he realized that he hadn't eaten. He pulled out his pocket watch and shook his head, another day lost. He closed up his books and decided to head home and he would have surely made it there without his eyes leaving the floor if he hadn't once again hit a solid object leaving his classroom. "Sybil," he said looking quite shocked and then embarrassed.
"Severus," she answered looking just as embarrassed. "I shouldn't have come, you were very busy and-" she stopped and looked into his eyes. "I'm sorry," she apologized turning to leave.
"No," he said grabbing toward her but not making contact. "I asked you for tea and then forgot. I'm so sorry Professor Dumbledore and I were talking and-" he stopped as she turned and looked back into his eyes. "There is no excuse. Will you forgive me?"
Trelawney smiled and nodded. "Some other time perhaps," she said and then she started to walk away again.
"Why not now?" asked Snape taking her by surprise. She turned back and looked at him curiously.
"But it's late Severus and your children."
"Will be just fine with Mrs. Walker," answered Snape smiling. "I spent most of the day with them yesterday and to be honest I need a little me time."
Trelawney giggled. "All right tea then?" she asked smiling.
"Maybe something stronger," suggested Snape. "It's been a long day." Trelawney nodded and they began to walk. "I'm really sorry about forgetting," he said after awhile.
"It's all right really. To be honest I just remembered myself a little while ago. It took me almost an hour to work up the courage to come down here. I've been standing outside your door for nearly twenty minutes, I'm embarrassed to say," confessed Trelawney. Snape tried not to laugh and she sensed it. "It's all right you can laugh, it's kind of silly me acting like I'm fifteen or something." She was feeling quite foolish now and stopped, Snape stopped too and looked at her curiously.
"You look different," he said after a moment. She was getting progressively more embarrassed. She looked at the floor and then to Snape.
"I sat on my glasses so I decided to go get new ones." She looked at the floor again. "Do they look okay?" she asked looking up again.
"They look nice but that's not it," he said looking at her again. Sybill blushed additionally. "You've done something else."
"I just let my hair down," she said looking quite embarrassed. She looked at him over the top of her glasses that were now quite smaller.
Snape smiled, reached forward, and pushed the hair away from her eyes. "It looks nice." Sybill was very uncomfortable now and started walking again.
"Where would you like to go?" she asked.
"I don't know," said Severus thinking about how much he didn't wish to be the center of attention anywhere. He also wasn't ready for home.
"I have some wine in my quarters," said Sybill trying not to sound like she cared either way.
Severus stopped and looked at Sybill. "Really?"
Trelawney stopped also and nodded shyly. "Yeah, I mean unless you want to go somewhere else."
"No, it's all right, if it's all right with you," answered Severus awkwardly. Sybill smiled.
"Now we both sound like we're fifteen," she said nervously.
Severus laughed. "Yes, I'm afraid you're right." Sybill laughed too.
"Come on, it's been a very long week at the very least I need that drink," she said taking his arm. Snape nodded and allowed him self to be pulled toward Sybill's home.
"I don't believe I've ever been in your quarters," said Snape looking around at the small living space. Trelawney was busy fussing around with glasses and wine bottles.
"I actually believe you may be the first to be here at all Severus," she said giving it a moment's thought. "That's kind of sad," she whispered to her self. Snape looked up at her.
"Maybe there just wasn't a right time before," he suggested.
She looked at Snape and cracked a smile. "You don't have to be kind. I know that no one cares for me. It's my own fault really for being so," she stopped and decided she wasn't ready to be that open with the world. She crossed the room and handed Snape the bottle of wine that she had promised. "Here, will you I'm not very good at it I'm afraid."
Snape took the bottle and tried to think of some comforting remark but then he himself was not the most popular teacher in school. He decided as well that it was best just to let it go. "Sure," he said taking the bottle to open it. She sat down across from him in the other large overstuffed chair and watched him.
"Thank you again for last night. You're children are beautiful," she said watching thoughtfully as Severus struggled with the wine.
"Well, they have their days," he said chuckling. "I believe Honey will be in your class again this year."
"Good she's very sweet, didn't have any trouble at all out of her last year," she said giggling. "That Anna, she reminds me of you." Snape looked up just as he uncorked the bottle of wine.
"I'm not sure how I should take that," he said smiling. Sybill giggled and took the glass of wine that he now poured for her. "To the new school year?" he asked taking a glass himself.
Sybill shook her head. "No work. To new horizons," proposed Sybill.
Severus smiled and shook his head. "All right. To new horizons." They both took a drink and then were silent for a few moments.
Sybill leaned forward. "You're going to fall asleep. You should go home."
He looked up at her and knew she was right. "I'm sorry Sybill."
"It's all right really," she insisted.
"No it's not but I'm afraid I've not been sleeping well. I'm worried about the children on top of everything else that's going on," he said rubbing his eyes. He stopped and looked up at her. "I won't burden you with my troubles."
"No it's all right," she said smiling. "I'm the one who thrives on pain and suffering remember?" Severus looked up into her eyes and began to laugh. Sybill laughed too. She laughed until she was crying and then they laughed some more. "If you're trying to say that you're lonely Severus, it's a feeling that I'm beginning to come to terms with," she confessed after awhile. "I've come to realize that I have nothing to show for most of my life."
Severus looked at her sympathetically. "That's not true; you have your position at Hogwart's."
Sybill laughed. "I have nothing. You have a family."
"My wife left me, what kind of a family is that?" said Severus bitterly.
"At least you have loved. I can't even say that," confessed Sybill. "I have crystal balls and tarot cards, what good will they do me when I am old and lonely?" She stopped, looked at Severus, and realized that she had gone further than she wanted to. Placing her wine glass on the table in front of her, she rose and crossed the room to a window. "I'm sorry Severus, I've just been having a hard time with things lately. Your problems are far more important than mine."
Snape placed his wine glass next to hers and went to her. "That's not true Sybill, we all have our crosses to bare. Helping each other with those burdens, that's what friends are for." She turned around, looked into his eyes, and smiled.
"Thank you," she said feeling foolish again. There was an awkward pause and then Sybill turned quickly. "Well, it really is late and you should probably get home."
Severus looked at Sybill and again realized he hadn't eaten. "Yes, I suppose so. Anna will be angry with me I'm afraid and I've worked through two meals again."
Sybill smiled. "I'm afraid I have the opposite problem. I'm prone to eating while I'm working," she confessed. Severus laughed and started to walk toward the door.
"Thank you for the wine."
"Thank you for the company," she said pushing the hair out of her eyes. "I suppose this wasn't a good idea."
"I don't know, I like it," he said smiling. Trelawney opened up her door and backed up clumsily.
"Well, good night," she said smiling. Severus paused, then leaned down, and gave her a light kiss.
"Good night Sybill." Trelawney blushed bright pink as he turned and walked away.
"Good night Severus," she called after him looking flabbergasted.
"Good evening Professor," called Mrs. Walker from the kitchen as he entered the house. "Your supper is warming in the oven."
Snape smiled and crossed through the house to join her. "Thank you," he said sitting at the table. The house was unusually quiet and he sat and listened to that silence for moment before speaking. "I take it the children are asleep."
Mrs. Walker set a plate of food in front of Severus and then sat across from him and smiled. "Unwillingly I must admit. Anna and Wolf you will find are once again in your bed I'm afraid," she sighed. Severus smiled and chuckled.
"It's all right Melinda," he said picking up a fork and stabbing at his plate.
"You need to eat all of it since I'm sure you haven't eaten today," she said trying to catch his eye.
"Yes, I will try," he said avoiding eye contact just as hard.
"You need to start taking better care of yourself if for no other reason than for the children," she scolded.
"Yes Melinda," he said smiling.
She shook her head and sighed. "I'm going to bed. If you need me, you know where I am," she said giving him one, more concerned look. Snape smiled, nodded, and watched her exit the kitchen. When she had gone, he pushed his plate away, rose to his feet, poured himself a drink, and downed it. After staring at the bottle for a moment, he poured another, took it with him into the lounge, and sat down in a large comfortable chair. It was there that he would make his bed that night.
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created by J.K. Rowling. Only the large corporations and J.K. are making money off of it not me.
Author Notes: This story originated from a Hogwart's role play in which Professor Snape is married and has three children. His wife, who also taught at Hogwart's, has left him and this is where the story picks up. Thanks to Severus and Beate wink wink for their help and my dubious beta stinkybubbles.
Chapter One Open Wounds
Severus sat in the corner of Dumbledore's office for the third time this week and attempted to listen to the ramblings of the old man. Yes, it was true, the students would be returning in a matter of days and among those students would be the Potter boy but, he was tired and he had problems of his own to think of. Right now, he could care less whether or not all the proper precautions had been taken for their safety. He just wanted this particular meeting to be over with so he could find a quiet corner somewhere, have a quick drink by him self, then go home, and hug his children.
"Severus." It was Professor McGonagall and she was elbowing him.
"What?" he asked looking up from his hands.
"We're finished," she said looking at him curiously. "Are you all right?"
Severus grunted and rose from his chair. "I'm fine, I'm just tired as we all are," he said rising to his feet. McGonagall watched him cross the office and exit pushing his way through the sea of teachers.
He didn't bother to return to his office, there was nothing for him there, not now, not today. He was soon wandering through the empty hallways of the castle and wondering how he had let things get to this point. He was so lost in thought that he soon found himself hitting a solid object. He looked up and saw books, cards, and one very small and glittery Professor go crashing to the floor. "Sybill I'm sorry," he said reaching down to offer her a hand.
Trelawney adjusted her glasses and straightened her robes. "It's all right Severus. I'm afraid I wasn't watching where I was going," she said apologetic. She blushed, took his hand, rose to her feet, and pulled out her wand. "Accio," she called over the pile of things scattered across the floor.
He looked at her oddly. "You weren't at the meeting just now were you?"
Trelawney looked down at her books. "No, I forgot I'm afraid. I was busy doing some things in the classroom." She shifted nervously on the spot. "I really need to be going."
Snape looked at her as she started to walk away and then noticed that she had missed a deck of cards. He bent down to retrieve them and called her name. This time when she turned, he noticed that behind her large spectacles her eyes were red and swollen. "Thank you Severus," she said quickly turning to leave again. Severus looked after her for a moment, then shrugged it off and once again set off for his intended goal.
He was happy to find the Three Broomsticks nearly empty when he arrived. Again, not many people would be searching for a drink at ten in the morning on a Tuesday. "Good morning Severus," said Madam Rosemerta before giving him a suspicious look. "This is the third time this week."
"Are you keeping track of me for a reason?" he asked irritated. She smiled and handed him a large glass of something that was smoking slightly.
"Just concerned with your state of mind I suppose," she said just before leaving quietly.
He stared at the liquid for a moment or two and then downed it in to two gulps. He laid some gold coins on the table and then as quickly as he was there he was gone. He decided to walk home; he thought that the warmth and freshness of the breeze would help to clear his head. He looked up at the sun and let it's warmth bathe his face for a short time and it helped him push back the tears that he felt welling up inside on him. "No I won't," he said to himself and then he pushed on forcing himself to think about upcoming lessons and extra safety precautions.
It seems though that the closer that he got to home the more that he couldn't shake the loneliness. It wasn't fair; you weren't supposed to be married and lonely at the same time. Severus stopped just when he could see his house and stared up the walk. It was really getting to the point of where he was going to need to tell the children something soon. It wasn't just there needs, after all, he was a man, and he did have needs of his own. He sighed and decided to continue.
Severus opened the door slowly and entered the modest cottage that he now considered his home away from Hogwart's. "Daddy, Daddy," it was Anna his youngest daughter of ten and the more enthusiastic of the two girls. She had shoulder length light brown hair and dark brown eyes like her father and she had been waiting patiently for him by the door in hopes that he would be there soon. He bent slightly, took her into his arms, and carried her with him as he entered the house.
"And how is my Anna this morning?" Anna stuck out her lower lip and gave her father her best pouty look.
"I can't believe you left without saying goodbye. Then Mrs. Walker wouldn't let me go up to the school to see you and, ." Severus put his fingers to her lips.
"Now Anna, it was very early when I left and Mrs. Walker knows that right now you shouldn't be wandering about the castle by yourself," he said gently. Anna looked at him, sighed, and then smiled. "That's better." He set her on the floor and stood up. "Where are your sister and brother?"
"They're in the kitchen with Mrs. Walker," said Anna somewhat sassily. "Wolf's been whining all day again." Severus could hear the sarcasm in his daughter's voice.
"Anna, you need to be kinder to your brother. We all have our own way of dealing with things." Severus thought about how he was dealing with them and felt the burning sensation in his eyes again. He reached down for Anna's hand. "Let's go and see what they're up to."
"All right," agreed Anna giving him her hand and smiling. It was a short walk to the kitchen where they were suddenly confronted with the smell of baking cookies. Severus drew a deep breath, smiled, and looked around in search of his two remaining children.
Mrs. Walker, a short plump witch with short black hair was helping the five- year-old Wolf roll cookie dough out on the counter. His hair was the color of Anna's but is was curlier and feel into his dark eyes. Across the room, sitting on a tall stool by the counter was Honey. The eldest of the trio, Honey was fourteen and was a beautiful budding young lady. Severus thought often of how much she looked like her mother, her soft brown hair, and eyes, the way that dimples appeared on her cheeks when she smiled. She was reading a book and trying very hard not to get covered by the flour, that Wolf was busy throwing everywhere. All three stopped what they were doing and looked at Severus and Anna as they entered the room. "Hey, dad you're home early," Honey said looking up only for a second.
"Look dad I'm on my second batch," said Wolf trying to wipe the flour from his nose with his sleeve.
"Professor, I didn't expect you so soon. Is everything okay?" asked the woman in a kind voice.
"Yes, I just decided that I wanted to spend the afternoon with my children. It won't be long before classes will start and I won't be able to." Severus pulled up a stool next to Honey and brushed as much flour off of it as he could before he sat on it. "What are you reading?"
"Standard Book of Spells Grade Four," she said showing her father the cover of the book and then going back to her page. Severus smiled and shook his head causing her to giggle. "What?"
"I didn't say anything," he said putting an arm around her. Anna was hovering close to the oven door and looking at the cookies.
"When are they going to be done Wolf?"
"I dunno," said Wolf looking at Mrs. Walker.
"They should be about done Wolf. Perhaps your father would help you take them out." Wolf looked over at Severus longingly, he so much wanted his father's approval, but it seemed that nothing he did these days was good enough.
"Would you help me dad?" he asked. Severus shifted uncomfortably on the stool and then nodded. He rose and followed his son to the oven. "Here," Wolf said handing him a towel to pull them out with. Severus took the towel and for a moment looked into his son's eyes. He lingered only for a second; for it was hardest of all to look there, for there within his eyes he was most likely to find Trista.
Severus burnt his hand taking the cookies out of the oven, because he of course was no longer concerned with the flames, his mind had wandered back to happier times. "Damn!" Severus looked around.
"Dad!" said Honey.
"Sorry," said Severus. He placed the tray over to the side and ran some cool water over the burn. Anna and Wolf giggled, Severus cracked a smile. "That's enough. I'm only human you know."
"I'll kiss it," said Anna coming quickly to his side. Honey rolled her eyes and returned to her book.
"Thank you sweetie," said Severus beaming. Mrs. Walker helped Wolf remove the warm cookies to cool while Anna and her dad retreated to the nearby kitchen table. Severus noticed a sad smile develop on his son's face as he watched his and Anna's exchange.
"Wolf are you finished with your cookies?" asked Severus quickly catching his son's attention.
Wolf looked at Mrs. Walker who smiled and nodded. "Actually I was just going to clean up and since you were here sir I was going to leave if that's all right There are some things I need to do," said the elderly witch winking at Severus.
"I think we'll manage just fine," he answered smiling. Anna followed Severus into the lounge while Wolf helped Mrs. Walker clean up the mess they had made in the kitchen and then followed. Honey watched for a moment over her book and then after playing the brooding teen, sulked in after them and sat in the corner. Anna crawled up in Severus lap and after some encouragement Wolf followed. Severus looked across the room at Honey who fought back a smile. He was happy that he was here even though he had a feeling that he would be answering for it in the morning. There were some things that you just had to do for yourself and your sanity.
"Sybill have you seen Severus?" Professor Trelawney was once again taken off guard and just barely kept hold of her bounty. She surveyed Professor McGonagall's face and sensed that at the moment she was not pleased with Snape.
"No I have not," she lied blatantly. "Why are you looking for him?" she asked suspiciously.
"That's really none of your business," answered the Professor indignantly. Then she looked at Trelawney with great contempt and added. "We missed you at the meeting this morning."
"I had some things to take care of. I'm sure that Professor Dumbledore will let me know what I need to know Minerva," answered Sybill quietly.
"I hope you're not under the misconception that crystal gazing will keep you informed as to what's going on at the school Sybill," snapped McGonagall. Professor Trelawney bit her lip and turned her head.
"I have things to do Minerva. I'll let Severus know that you're looking for him if I see him. Good day." She turned and walked away as quickly as she could. She didn't stop or even slow down until she was close enough to see the door that led to her classroom. She stopped and looked. Why had she lied about seeing Severus? Why did she care whether he got in trouble for leaving the school grounds?
She shifted her books and things to one arm and with the wave of her wand allowed the ladder that led to her room to descend. It was very hot at the when the top of the ladder and normally this did not bother her; in fact she usually preferred it to be that way. However, today she felt a need to open up a window and breathe fresh air. She sat in front of the open window for the longest time staring out it and thinking about the upcoming school year. She was feeling very boxed in and lonely. Sybill thought about Severus and wondered what he was doing at this very moment. She felt tears running down her cheeks and decided that she had had enough of Hogwart's for one day.
She wasn't sure how she had gotten to Hogsmeade but just walking among the people with the sun shining in her face was an experience that she never thought she would enjoy. She couldn't remember the last time she'd done something this stupid and she found that she wanted to giggle about it. She also had a an irresistible urge to go back to the castle just long enough to slap McGonagall and then run all the way back to where she was. This thought did make her laugh uncontrollably. "Professor Trelawney, what are you doing here?" Sybill heard a child's voice behind her and turned to see who had discovered her little adventure.
"Miss Snape," she said being quite shocked to find Honey Snape standing behind her holding her brother's hand. "Are you here alone?" she asked looking around.
"No, dad's here. He and Anna just went inside for a moment, they should be right back."
Sybill felt a wave of panic sweep over her and then she looked at Wolf and smiled. "You must be Wolf." The young man smiled and nodded. "You look just like just like your father."
"You think so." Sybill lost her balance and nearly fell over as she looked up to see Severus standing above his son now.
"Sybill."
"Severus." She steadied herself and smiled at him. "You in town with your children?"
"Yes, I don't expect there will be many opportunities soon. What brings you to town?" he looked at her oddly. "Come to think of it, I don't believe I've ever seen you outside the castle in years."
Sybil shifted uncomfortably in her spot. "I just had an urge to be outside today." She looked at the ground and then back up and Severus and his children. "Oh, Minerva was looking for you earlier."
"Oh," said Severus looking only slightly concerned.
"I told her I hadn't seen you." She looked at the children's faces again and then gave Severus another uncomfortable smile. "Well, have a good day with your children. I will see you at the castle." She turned to leave.
"Sybill, where are you going?" he asked quickly taking her quite by surprise.
Trelawney turned around and giggled slightly. "I haven't the slightest idea. I'm not sure how I even got here," she admitted with an additional giggled. Severus cracked a smile. Wolf was tugging at Severus' robe now and Sybill was feeling more uncomfortable by the moment. "Well, have a good day all," she repeated turning again.
"Sybill." Severus reached out and took her elbow this time causing her to jump and so did he. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to startle you. I just thought that if you weren't doing anything maybe you'd like to have dinner with my family and me," he asked awkwardly.
"Yeah Professor that would be fun," chimed in Anna.
Honey however had other ideas. "Dad, I'm supposed to be going over to Gina's house for dinner."
"I think you can forfeit going to a friend's house one night Honey. I want to take you and your sister and brother to dinner and I'd like Sybill to come along as well," said Snape raising his voice slightly. Wolf cowered behind Anna looking very intimidated.
"Severus, if she's already made plans it's not necessary," started Trelawney.
"No, she's made plans without asking and she knows that's unacceptable. We're going to dinner and that's that!"
Sybill looked at Severus as though the command had been aimed at her as well. "All right," she said looking up at Severus. Snape looked at Sybill and then realized what he had done and began to laugh.
"I'm sorry Sybill, children, it's been a very long day." He turned to Honey. "Can you visit with your friend another night?" Honey sighed, gave her father a very disgruntled look, and nodded. "Sybill would you please join us for dinner?" said Snape holding out his arm.
Sybill smiled. "I'd love to Severus," said Sybill taking his arm. He then grabbed Honey who reluctantly came bringing Wolf with her. Anna giggled wildly and took the arm the Sybill offered her. They were quite a sight to see walking down the middle of the street, heading toward the Three Broomsticks, it was a very good thing that no one from the castle was there to see it.
It took Honey quite some time to get over not getting her way, but when she did; even she was having a good time. Anna was quite the live wire and had Trelawney and her father laughing heartily soon after their meal arrived. Professor Trelawney watched as Snape had his ups and downs with his children throughout the meal and felt emptiness inside for it. When they had finished their meal, she offered to help him take the sleepy children home, which he quickly accepted. Wolf hadn't made it three steps out of the door before Severus was carrying him. Sybill would watch him put the boy to bed from the hallway with a yearning in her heart. Anna and Honey told her good night and crossed the lounge toward their bedrooms. "I'll be right back," said Severus turning to follow them.
"It's all right Severus," said Sybill clutching the doorknob. "I'm going to go, thank you for the lovely evening. I'll see you sometime." Trelawney turned the knob on the door and before Snape could say a word was gone. He turned to go after her.
"Daddy, are you coming," called Anna from the other room.
Severus hesitated. "Yes Anna, I'm coming," he said heading down the hallway.
Sybill walked slowly along the dark street. She was in no hurry to return to the loneliness of her Hogwart's quarters. There was a time when she would have thought it mad that she had ventured out of it. However, things and she herself were changing. Perhaps it was the threat of the Dark Lord again, the possibility of impending doom. She allowed herself a chuckle. Somehow these things no longer held the same intrigue that they once did. She had spent two months evaluating her life and had decided that despite what she had been telling herself for the last twenty years she was not a happy person.
She passed a short wizard who tipped his hat to her; she smiled and said "Hello." Then she smiled to herself because she had done it. It had been a good day even though now she had an even emptier feeling than she had had before, because for a short time she had gotten to share Severus' family and this was a memory that she could keep for a good long while.
Severus woke but didn't open his eyes. He lie for a moment in the sunlight that streamed through the open curtains and reached out into the bed to find it empty. He sighed and then realized that he hadn't even found a small child there. Perhaps Anna and Wolf had been too tired from the previous night's festivities to venture there. It's not as though he wanted to find them there, he didn't however wish to find it empty. He now found that there was an ache, a need in his body, perhaps in his very soul that could not be fulfilled at that moment and decided that he should get up. "A shower," he thought "and not a warm and inviting one."
"Where were you yesterday afternoon Severus?" McGonagall was standing over Snape at his desk and tutting rather impatiently. "Albus wanted the heads of houses to meet."
He didn't look up from his work. "I'm sure it's something that we can do this afternoon Minerva I wanted, no I needed to spend some time with my family."
Even Professor McGonagall couldn't argue with this logic. She couldn't look at Snape and tell him that he couldn't spend time with his family. Everyone in the castle knew that he was going through a rough time but no one knew what to do for him. He wasn't the type of person that you consoled and even if he was, Minerva wasn't the one to do it. "I'm sorry Severus, you should have just told me."
"I shouldn't have to explain myself," mumbled Snape under his breath. "Now, if you'll excuse me I have a lot of work to do." McGonagall lingered for a moment looking at him sympathetically and then left.
Severus stopped what he was doing and placed his head in his hands. The last thing he wanted from the rest of the staff was their pity. It had been over two months since Dumbledore had come to him with Trista's resignation in his hand; a hell of way to find out your wife has left you. He had not asked for anyone's pity then and he did not want it now.
Sybill found herself once more flat on the floor with her belongings scattered around her and laughed. "This is getting to be a habit I'm afraid," she said looking up at Severus.
Snape cracked an actually smile. "I'm sorry Sybill."
"It's all right my mind it seems, is quite elsewhere these days," explained Trelawney taking his hand once again to rise. She looked up into his eyes, smiled, and then once again collected her things with a summoning charm. "Nice to see you again Severus," she said starting toward her classroom.
"Sybill," called Snape. She stopped and turned around. "I'm on my way to a meeting with Dumbledore and the heads of houses but after that would you like to go and have some tea or something?"
Trelawney looked at him suspiciously and then smiled. "Okay, I'll be in my office," she said softly looking quite nervous.
"All right then," he said. "I'll see you."
Snape was quite sure he hadn't heard a word that Dumbledore or any of the other Professor's had said at their afternoon meeting and by the look in Dumbledore's eyes when he asked to walk with him he knew it too. "You're looking tired Severus," said Dumbledore as they walked down the hallway toward his office.
"I'm rather busy as you know Albus. It is at your request that I am burning the candle at both ends," answered Severus coldly. Dumbledore stopped and looked at Snape who quickly realized he had overstepped his bounds. "I'm sorry Albus, I guess I am tired."
Dumbledore placed a hand on Severus shoulder and looked into his tired eyes. "Is there anything I can do?"
"Put an end to this mess so that I don't have to choose between what is right and what is mine," said Severus looking very weary. Dumbledore didn't say anything to him but gave him an additional encouraging smile before leaving him outside his office door.
Lost in thought Snape made his way down to his dungeon classroom and began to toil over lesson plans, thoughts of emptiness and dark lords raging in his head. It was dark before he realized that he hadn't eaten. He pulled out his pocket watch and shook his head, another day lost. He closed up his books and decided to head home and he would have surely made it there without his eyes leaving the floor if he hadn't once again hit a solid object leaving his classroom. "Sybil," he said looking quite shocked and then embarrassed.
"Severus," she answered looking just as embarrassed. "I shouldn't have come, you were very busy and-" she stopped and looked into his eyes. "I'm sorry," she apologized turning to leave.
"No," he said grabbing toward her but not making contact. "I asked you for tea and then forgot. I'm so sorry Professor Dumbledore and I were talking and-" he stopped as she turned and looked back into his eyes. "There is no excuse. Will you forgive me?"
Trelawney smiled and nodded. "Some other time perhaps," she said and then she started to walk away again.
"Why not now?" asked Snape taking her by surprise. She turned back and looked at him curiously.
"But it's late Severus and your children."
"Will be just fine with Mrs. Walker," answered Snape smiling. "I spent most of the day with them yesterday and to be honest I need a little me time."
Trelawney giggled. "All right tea then?" she asked smiling.
"Maybe something stronger," suggested Snape. "It's been a long day." Trelawney nodded and they began to walk. "I'm really sorry about forgetting," he said after awhile.
"It's all right really. To be honest I just remembered myself a little while ago. It took me almost an hour to work up the courage to come down here. I've been standing outside your door for nearly twenty minutes, I'm embarrassed to say," confessed Trelawney. Snape tried not to laugh and she sensed it. "It's all right you can laugh, it's kind of silly me acting like I'm fifteen or something." She was feeling quite foolish now and stopped, Snape stopped too and looked at her curiously.
"You look different," he said after a moment. She was getting progressively more embarrassed. She looked at the floor and then to Snape.
"I sat on my glasses so I decided to go get new ones." She looked at the floor again. "Do they look okay?" she asked looking up again.
"They look nice but that's not it," he said looking at her again. Sybill blushed additionally. "You've done something else."
"I just let my hair down," she said looking quite embarrassed. She looked at him over the top of her glasses that were now quite smaller.
Snape smiled, reached forward, and pushed the hair away from her eyes. "It looks nice." Sybill was very uncomfortable now and started walking again.
"Where would you like to go?" she asked.
"I don't know," said Severus thinking about how much he didn't wish to be the center of attention anywhere. He also wasn't ready for home.
"I have some wine in my quarters," said Sybill trying not to sound like she cared either way.
Severus stopped and looked at Sybill. "Really?"
Trelawney stopped also and nodded shyly. "Yeah, I mean unless you want to go somewhere else."
"No, it's all right, if it's all right with you," answered Severus awkwardly. Sybill smiled.
"Now we both sound like we're fifteen," she said nervously.
Severus laughed. "Yes, I'm afraid you're right." Sybill laughed too.
"Come on, it's been a very long week at the very least I need that drink," she said taking his arm. Snape nodded and allowed him self to be pulled toward Sybill's home.
"I don't believe I've ever been in your quarters," said Snape looking around at the small living space. Trelawney was busy fussing around with glasses and wine bottles.
"I actually believe you may be the first to be here at all Severus," she said giving it a moment's thought. "That's kind of sad," she whispered to her self. Snape looked up at her.
"Maybe there just wasn't a right time before," he suggested.
She looked at Snape and cracked a smile. "You don't have to be kind. I know that no one cares for me. It's my own fault really for being so," she stopped and decided she wasn't ready to be that open with the world. She crossed the room and handed Snape the bottle of wine that she had promised. "Here, will you I'm not very good at it I'm afraid."
Snape took the bottle and tried to think of some comforting remark but then he himself was not the most popular teacher in school. He decided as well that it was best just to let it go. "Sure," he said taking the bottle to open it. She sat down across from him in the other large overstuffed chair and watched him.
"Thank you again for last night. You're children are beautiful," she said watching thoughtfully as Severus struggled with the wine.
"Well, they have their days," he said chuckling. "I believe Honey will be in your class again this year."
"Good she's very sweet, didn't have any trouble at all out of her last year," she said giggling. "That Anna, she reminds me of you." Snape looked up just as he uncorked the bottle of wine.
"I'm not sure how I should take that," he said smiling. Sybill giggled and took the glass of wine that he now poured for her. "To the new school year?" he asked taking a glass himself.
Sybill shook her head. "No work. To new horizons," proposed Sybill.
Severus smiled and shook his head. "All right. To new horizons." They both took a drink and then were silent for a few moments.
Sybill leaned forward. "You're going to fall asleep. You should go home."
He looked up at her and knew she was right. "I'm sorry Sybill."
"It's all right really," she insisted.
"No it's not but I'm afraid I've not been sleeping well. I'm worried about the children on top of everything else that's going on," he said rubbing his eyes. He stopped and looked up at her. "I won't burden you with my troubles."
"No it's all right," she said smiling. "I'm the one who thrives on pain and suffering remember?" Severus looked up into her eyes and began to laugh. Sybill laughed too. She laughed until she was crying and then they laughed some more. "If you're trying to say that you're lonely Severus, it's a feeling that I'm beginning to come to terms with," she confessed after awhile. "I've come to realize that I have nothing to show for most of my life."
Severus looked at her sympathetically. "That's not true; you have your position at Hogwart's."
Sybill laughed. "I have nothing. You have a family."
"My wife left me, what kind of a family is that?" said Severus bitterly.
"At least you have loved. I can't even say that," confessed Sybill. "I have crystal balls and tarot cards, what good will they do me when I am old and lonely?" She stopped, looked at Severus, and realized that she had gone further than she wanted to. Placing her wine glass on the table in front of her, she rose and crossed the room to a window. "I'm sorry Severus, I've just been having a hard time with things lately. Your problems are far more important than mine."
Snape placed his wine glass next to hers and went to her. "That's not true Sybill, we all have our crosses to bare. Helping each other with those burdens, that's what friends are for." She turned around, looked into his eyes, and smiled.
"Thank you," she said feeling foolish again. There was an awkward pause and then Sybill turned quickly. "Well, it really is late and you should probably get home."
Severus looked at Sybill and again realized he hadn't eaten. "Yes, I suppose so. Anna will be angry with me I'm afraid and I've worked through two meals again."
Sybill smiled. "I'm afraid I have the opposite problem. I'm prone to eating while I'm working," she confessed. Severus laughed and started to walk toward the door.
"Thank you for the wine."
"Thank you for the company," she said pushing the hair out of her eyes. "I suppose this wasn't a good idea."
"I don't know, I like it," he said smiling. Trelawney opened up her door and backed up clumsily.
"Well, good night," she said smiling. Severus paused, then leaned down, and gave her a light kiss.
"Good night Sybill." Trelawney blushed bright pink as he turned and walked away.
"Good night Severus," she called after him looking flabbergasted.
"Good evening Professor," called Mrs. Walker from the kitchen as he entered the house. "Your supper is warming in the oven."
Snape smiled and crossed through the house to join her. "Thank you," he said sitting at the table. The house was unusually quiet and he sat and listened to that silence for moment before speaking. "I take it the children are asleep."
Mrs. Walker set a plate of food in front of Severus and then sat across from him and smiled. "Unwillingly I must admit. Anna and Wolf you will find are once again in your bed I'm afraid," she sighed. Severus smiled and chuckled.
"It's all right Melinda," he said picking up a fork and stabbing at his plate.
"You need to eat all of it since I'm sure you haven't eaten today," she said trying to catch his eye.
"Yes, I will try," he said avoiding eye contact just as hard.
"You need to start taking better care of yourself if for no other reason than for the children," she scolded.
"Yes Melinda," he said smiling.
She shook her head and sighed. "I'm going to bed. If you need me, you know where I am," she said giving him one, more concerned look. Snape smiled, nodded, and watched her exit the kitchen. When she had gone, he pushed his plate away, rose to his feet, poured himself a drink, and downed it. After staring at the bottle for a moment, he poured another, took it with him into the lounge, and sat down in a large comfortable chair. It was there that he would make his bed that night.